Principals Groups Applaud Progress on ESEA Reauthorization
Statement from the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA), the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP):
On behalf of the nation’s 100,000 principals, our organizations commend leaders of the congressional education committees for taking the next step toward reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act with the announcement of the conference committee. Public education has learned a number of lessons under No Child Left Behind—mainly that an overreliance on standardized tests punishes schools rather than improving them. While we are certainly encouraged by word of a bipartisan framework for a new ESEA that will take that lesson to heart, we look forward to reviewing the latest details, to ensure that it acknowledges the unique and vital role principals play in our nation’s schools. We will continue to make sure the voice of principals is heard and that they are provided with the supports they need to successfully implement the law. We look forward to working with lawmakers toward that end, and a vastly improved law that resets the focus on learning for all students.
Contact:
Kaylen Tucker NAESP assistant executive director of communications
703-518-6257, ktucker@naesp.org
Kelly Pollitt, NAESP chief strategist, policy and alliances
703-518-6245, kpollitt@naesp.org
Bob Farrace, NASSP director of public affairs
703-909-4661, farraceb@nassp.org
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About AFSA
The American Federation of School Administrators is the exclusive union for administrators, professionals and supervisors advocating for excellence and equity in all of our schools, workplaces and communities. AFSA members are leaders in their schools and communities and are charged with the privilege and responsibility of helping to mold our nation’s students into successful, mindful individuals. As school leaders, AFSA members are constantly advocating for better public schools and systems of education. AFSA members are active in the labor movement and proudly stand in solidarity with all trade unionists and school administrators.
About NASSP
The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) is the leading organization of and national voice for middle level and high school principals, assistant principals, and all school leaders from across the United States and more than 36 countries around the world. The association connects and engages school leaders through advocacy, research, education, and student programs. NASSP advocates on behalf of all school leaders to ensure the success of each student and strengthens school leadership practices through the design and delivery of high quality professional learning experiences. Reflecting its long-standing commitment to student leadership development, NASSP administers the National Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society, National Elementary Honor Society, and National Association of Student Councils.
About NAESP
Principals are the primary catalysts for creating lasting foundations for learning. Since 1921, the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) has been the leading advocate for elementary and middle level principals in the United States and worldwide. NAESP advances the profession by developing policy, advancing advocacy and providing professional development and resources for instructional leadership, including specialized support and mentoring for early career principals. Key focus areas include pre-K-3 education, school safety, technology and digital learning, and effective educator evaluation. For more information about NAESP, please visit www.naesp.org. NAESP administers the National Principals Resource Center, the American Student Council Association, and the President's Education Awards & American Citizenship Awards Programs.