ADE ESSA: What Is It and What Does It Mean?

The ESSA is changing education in Arizona; learn what it means for you.

There are some changes taking place in American legislation, and they affect you as a teacher. This month, the state of Arizona is submitting its documentation for the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Not sure what this means for you? We have the answers.

What is the ESSA?

The ESSA is a federal law that was signed by President Obama on Dec. 10, 2015. This bipartisan act seeks to advance our educational system beyond current legislation. It outlines a variety of new changes, including the way we rate schools, prepare students for college and careers, and keep schools accountable.

Isn’t the ESSA the Same as No Child Left Behind?

Although you might hear people saying this, it’s a misconception. The ESSA replaces No Child Left Behind and will have important differences. This includes:

• College and Career Readiness Standards


• A Local Assessment Pilot


• State Driven Performance Targets and School Ratings


• State Identification of Underperforming Schools


• Dedicated Funding for Lowest-Performing Schools


• Teacher and Leader Evaluation and Support Systems


• Expansion to Pre-K


• Competitive Programs for Innovation and Replication of High Performing Charter Schools

What is the Biggest Difference with This Change?


There is more control of education at the state level. Since May 2016, there have been stakeholder meetings, public feedback, state plan preparation, and open forums for public comment. All of this contributed to the final Arizona ESSA Plan, which will be submitted to the federal government this month.

It may be too late to contribute to the Arizona ESSA plan, but you can always contribute to future legislation and policy changes. Learn how here!