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Massachusetts Education Reform Act
The Act put into place a high-stakes testing that was implemented in all schools in Massachusetts, as well as a common curriculum. The Act set high standards for schools' academics as well as changing funding of their schools to make things more equitable for every school. State-wide testing was the main result. This led to more pressure put into schools into doing well on tests, sacrificing a student’s education. Reports later came out that there weren’t any positive changes in student success. -
No Child Left Behind Act
The Act was supposed to be a solution to international education improving while the American education system remained stagnant. It was supposed to ensure students were successful as well as make sure students actually learn. It was also supposed to help all students, particularly those who were at a disadvantage previously in education such as special education students. State tests, penalties, and reports were all included within the act ensuring schools improve their student’s education. -
Every Student Succeeds Act
The Every Student Succeeds Act was created to replace the No Child Left Behind Act. Students were not succeeding because of the rigid testing that was enabled by the previous act, as well as students were not receiving an equal and equitable education. The Act however repeated history and led to issues for students and educators in the American Education System. The general public says the Act doesn’t solve the issue of inequality in schools, and the Act also puts emphasis on testing. -
Modern Day
The current state of the schools greatly reflects the flaws within the previous legislature passed. All three Acts were passed to monitor student success, improve schools, and make sure every student receives an equal education. Testing culture is ingrained so now schools' curriculum is completely centered around these mandated tests. Classrooms focus around testing strategies and what information the tests will contain, rather than ensuring students actually understand the material.