MoultrieC EDL 9600 Week 3 Assignment

Appraise how Federal Policies Influence Local Policy & Practice 1 Appraise how Federal Policies Influence Local Policy & Practice Courtney Moultrie EDL 9600 Dr. Jeffery Noe Northcentral University August 6, 2023

Appraise how Federal Policies Influence Local Policy & Practice 2 Appraise how Federal Policies Influence Local Policy & Practice The implementation of federal policies in local PK-12 educational agencies plays a crucial role in determining the quality of education provided to children across the nation. This essay aims to review the connection between federal policies and local PK-12 policies, while also examining the role of state educational agencies (SEA) in enacting these federal policies. By analyzing four federal policies and their impact on local educational agencies, we can better understand the challenges and successes experienced at the local level. Amidst the ever-evolving educational landscape, government initiatives have played a pivotal role in ensuring equal opportunities to education. This essay aims to provide a comparative analysis of four critical educational policies and funding mechanisms: No Child Left Behind (NCLB), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), and Title I funds. By examining their key features, objectives, and funding criteria, this essay aims to shed light on how these programs have shaped education for the better. Policy NCLB IDEA ESSA Title I Funds Objective Improve academic achievement for all students Provide specialized education for disabled students Provide clearer state accountability, flexibility, and local control Provide additional resources to school Scope Mandatory for public schools Mandatory for public schools Mandatory for public schools Optional for public schools Accountability Annual adequate yearly progress Individual Education Plans (IEP) Annual state and federal levels Accountability at school and federal levels Funding Federal funding formula Federal funding formula Federal funding formula Federal funding formula Funding Focus General education Specialized education Comprehensive education Support disadvantaged students

Appraise how Federal Policies Influence Local Policy & Practice 4 IDEA sought to provide specialized and individualized education services to students with disabilities by implementing Individual Education Plans (IEPs). It aimed to ensure equal access and appropriately tailored instructions for students with disabilities. Over the years, IDEA has been widely appreciated for empowering students and supporting their academic success. 3. Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA ) The ESSA, signed into law in 2015, shifted educational decision-making power from the federal level to the state and local agencies ( What Is the Every Student Succeeds Act? - Office of Elementary and Secondary Education , 2020). Under the ESSA, local PK-12 educational agencies were required to develop strategies to improve student performance and provide support to struggling schools. The SEA played a vital role in guiding local agencies to develop plans that aligned with the federal objectives. Consequently, local policies reflect a more personalized approach, allowing districts to focus on their unique student population and develop strategies specific to their needs. Subsequent to NCLB, ESSA provided a more comprehensive and flexible approach to improve education quality. It shifted authority back to states, enabling them to design improvement plans that reflected regional needs. ESSA emphasized a well-rounded education, reducing high stakes testing, and included multiple indicators of school success. 4. Title I Funds Title I Funds, which are provided under the NCLB and ESSA, are intended to support schools with high poverty rates. Local PK-12 educational agencies are responsible for utilizing these funds effectively to improve educational opportunities for disadvantaged students. Both the federal and state governments monitor the equitable distribution and utilization of Title I funds. Local policies demonstrated the allocation of these funds towards evidence-based interventions,

Appraise how Federal Policies Influence Local Policy & Practice 5 additional resources, and professional development to meet the needs of economically disadvantaged students. Title I funds have enabled additional resources to be directed towards schools serving disadvantaged students. It aims to address achievement gaps and provide academic support to low-income students (What is a Title 1 School? A guide to funding benefits & requirements, 2023). Funding flexibility allows schools to tailor interventions and resources for better results, bringing education equity to the forefront. Conclusion The interplay between federal policies and local PK-12 educational agencies is crucial in ensuring equitable access to quality education for all students. As highlighted by the review of four federal policies, local PK-12 policies are significantly impacted by federal mandates, with the SEA acting as a mediator between the two levels. While federal policies frame broader goals, local policies provide the flexibility for agencies to address their unique challenges, student characteristics, and community needs. The alignment between federal and local policies is essential for the efficient utilization of resources and the promotion of student success. As the educational landscape continues to evolve, collaboration and effective communication between federal, state, and local agencies will remain crucial in driving educational reforms and facilitating positive learning outcomes for all students.