Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is the current iteration of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the primary means by which federal support is provided to K-12 schools through formula grant programs such as Title I, Title II (professional development), Title III (English language acquisition) and Title IV (support and academic enrichment). It replaced the No Child Left Behind Act

Having a well-prepared, well-supported principal in every school is vital for ensuring that all students have access to and can succeed in a well-rounded education. ESSA provides flexibility and significant opportunities for states and districts to support students most in-need, enhance the professional capacity of school leaders and educators, and promote a well-rounded education.

NAESP believes that:

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Focused efforts and investments to recruit, prepare, and retain principals and provide job-embedded ongoing support;

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Early childhood education and support for the Pre-K-3 continuum as well as the necessary support for all educators to be effective; and

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Full funding for programs proven to provide schools with the means to improve student academic outcomes and fill equity gaps.

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School counselors and mental health professionals should infuse prevention and intervention services into the learning process and integrate services provided through school-community partnerships.

Take Action

Urge your members of Congress to prioritize funding for federal PK-12 programs by going to the NAESP Advocacy Action Center and sending a message about this important issue.

Visit Action Center

Source: Learning Policy Institute (Sept. 2022).