The document outlines the ESEA flexibility program which provides states flexibility from certain requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act in exchange for rigorous and comprehensive state-developed plans designed to improve educational outcomes for all students, close achievement gaps, increase equity, and improve the quality of instruction. Key aspects of the flexibility include setting ambitious achievement goals, developing differentiated accountability systems, evaluating teachers and principals, and supporting school improvement efforts. The flexibility aims to build on state and local reform efforts already underway.

8. Transition to and implement CCR standards

9. Develop and administer Statewide, aligned, high-qualityassessments that measure student growth

11. Reward schools: Provide incentives and recognition for high-progress and highest-performing Title I schools

12. Priority schools: Identify lowest-performing schools and implement interventions aligned with the turnaround principles

13. Focus schools: Close achievement gaps by identifying and implementing interventions in schools with the greatest achievement gaps or low graduation rates

14. Provide incentives and supports for other Title I schools

18. An SEA may request an extension of the initial period of this flexibility prior to the start of the 2014-2015 school year unless it is superseded by reauthorization of the ESEA.

23. There will be an additional opportunity for these SEAs to submit a request for the full flexibility package following the 2011-2012 school year.

25. An SEA will have multiple opportunities to clarify its plans for reviewers and to answer any questions reviewers may have

26. If necessary, the Department will provide feedback to an SEA about components of the SEA’s request that need additional development