NCLB (No Child Left Behind Act)

The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), enacted in 2001, aimed to improve educational outcomes for all American students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. It established standardized testing as a key measurement of school performance, requiring schools to demonstrate proficiency in reading and math. Schools that struggled to meet these benchmarks faced consequences, such as funding cuts or restructuring. NCLB emphasized accountability, increased federal involvement in education, and sought to close achievement gaps. However, it faced criticism for its one-size-fits-all approach and the pressure it placed on schools and teachers.