Over the past 25 years a major shift in political ideology has refocused educational politics from equality issues to issues relating to excellence, accountability, and choice. The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001 reauthorized the Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA) first passed in 1965. NCLB legislation is a continuation of the educational reform movement for improved academic achievement that began in 1983 with publication of a government report, A Nation at Risk, which called for higher standards to prepare students for the 21st century. Reaction to the at-risk report generated many reform initiatives resulting in the assessment, standards and accountability movement today. The organizational structure of the NCLB covers 10 separate titles. This book provides an enhanced understanding of the NCLB major features and suggests resources in the areas of: History of Accountability and Achievement; Adequate Yearly Progress; Highly-Qualified Teachers; Title I; Reading and Early Childhood; School Reform including Charters and Vouchers; Restructuring; School Finance; and High School Reform.

"This slim volume provides the reader with a clear, concise summary of the details of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act. The authors take a narrative rather than a judgmental approach to the subject. They provide some historical perspective for the past 30 years of school reform including the Reading First initiative, Head Start, and school readiness." - CHOICE

"The strength of this book is its scope. It provides a convenient resource of information about a wide variety of programs and practices....This book serves as an excellent compass capable of steering educators in the proper direction." - Teachers College Record

"Each chapter is short and written in a style that is easy to read and understand, especially for those without a background in education....This is a good book....It would be an asset to a graduate program in educational leadership that would include courses for future principals and school district administrators." - PsycCRITIQUES, April 2008

"The book's format would make it useful for students in an educational leadership class. Each of the nine chapters begins with a quote relating to the theme of change and ends with reflection questions and web resources. The book also would be helpful to novice school board members who need to familiarize themselves with NCLB." - School Administrator, September 2008