INSIDE WASHINGTON

Paige made the announcement today during a visit to the state capitol where he was joined by Governor Mike Foster and State Superintendent Cecil Picard. "Louisiana has built upon its existing state accountability system to produce an even stronger and more cohesive plan to benefit every child in the state," said Paige. "I congratulate Superintendent Picard and Governor Foster for this step forward. Louisiana has a distinguished history of education reform and cutting-edge work in assessment and accountability. With these improved accountability provisions and an established record of reform, Louisiana is firmly on the path to ensuring that no child is left behind." Under NCLB's strong accountability provisions, states must describe how they will close the achievement gap and make sure all students, including disadvantaged students, achieve academic proficiency. In addition, they must produce annual state and school district report cards that inform parents and communities about state and school progress. Schools that do not make progress must provide supplemental services such as free tutoring or after-school assistance, take corrective actions and -- if still not making adequate yearly progress after five years -- must make dramatic changes in the way they operate. Louisiana is the 11th state to gain approval. Other states whose plans have been approved include Colorado, Delaware, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New York, Ohio and West Virginia. No Child Left Behind is the landmark education reform law designed to change the culture [...]