Gov. Gregoire�s statement on No Child Left Behind proposed rules

For Immediate Release: May 22, 2008

OLYMPIA � �Without Congressional reauthorization of the No Child Left Behind Act this year, I understand why Secretary Spellings of the federal Department of Education feels the need to address certain issues. However, I am concerned the proposed rules go too far and would place a heavier burden on local school districts without additional flexibility or support.

�The proposed rules would require states and school districts to create additional data for tracking adequate yearly progress (AYP) and examine the services of private education providers. Both of these requirements would take much-needed time and resources away from services to students.

�I am also concerned that the proposed standardized high school graduation rate will not recognize the efforts of all of our students. We know most of our students complete high school in four years, but others take longer. The graduation rate policy should recognize that�and do so without requiring states to go through an application process to the federal government.

�Washington�s local school districts are working hard to serve all students. I cannot ask them to take on additional administrative work without appropriate funding.

�I am looking forward to a thorough congressional reauthorization process next year and continue to work with our congressional delegation to be sure critical issues are addressed. We must make sure that changes are made to appropriately assess our special education students and English language learners, that states are given flexibility to design accountability systems that include awards and recognition for progress made as well as assistance, and that the resources are provided to make the promise of No Child Left Behind a reality.�

Gov. Gregoire�s letter to Secretary Spellings