The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act requires that the state education agency make technical assistance available consistent with specified priorities to schools identified as being in School Improvement. In compliance with state and federal laws, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) must take action(s) it determines to be appropriate to assist schools that are faced with major accountability challenges.
Given the requirements of NCLB, and Arkansas Act 35, the ADE is requesting that districts and/or schools in Year 3, 4 or 5 of School Improvement NOT engage in contracting with external/private contractors for School Improvement initiatives for the 2006-2007 school year. This is a temporary situation, and does not apply to contracts for supplemental education and services, nor to already existing contracts for School Improvement initiatives for the 2006-2007 school year (just new contracts).
The ADE is in the process of selecting scientifically based research interventions that will substantially increase the likelihood that all students enrolled in Arkansas schools will meet or exceed the State’s proficient levels of achievement.
Communications regarding the ADE’s technical assistance to schools in School Improvement Years 3, 4, and 5 will be forwarded in the very near future. A meeting will be scheduled to provide additional information regarding the partnership for School Improvement for the 2006-2007 school year.
Patience and cooperation in this matter are needed and appreciated.