Arizonans have another opportunity to help shape the state education agencyβs plan for a new federal education law going into effect next school year.
The second draft of the state plan for Every Student Succeeds Act, a reauthorization of a 1965 federal education law intended to create equal opportunity for all students, was released this week. It was crafted based on public and educator feedback submitted to the department.
βI was truly impressed by the amount of feedback shared on the first draft,β state schools chief Diane Douglas said in a news release.
The first draft provided a glimpse into how Arizona would adapt to the new law, which gives more control to states on how they test students and how school and student success are measured.
The second draft includes a preliminary implementation plan, through which the Arizona Department of Education provides more details on the βhow,β said Alexis Susdorf, a department spokeswoman. Thatβs something the public wanted, according to submitted comments based on the first draft.
βOur intention of the document is to keep it really general and give Arizona the ability to develop,β she said. The department focused on giving school districts and charter holders more wiggle room in adapting to the state ESSA plan in a way that best suits them.
Some highlights of the second draft include the Comprehensive Needs Assessment, an annual report that includes details on a school or districtβs development. The principles of the assessment include effective leadership, teachers, instruction, time organization and curriculum, data culture, conditions, climate and culture, and community engagement.
To submit feedback, visit www.azed.gov/essa/ or email ESSAInbox@azed.gov. The deadline to submit comments on the second draft is Dec. 9.
