The US Department of Education has approved the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) plan for Wyoming. ESSA is the federal education accountability law that has replaced No Child Left Behind (NCLB).
This plan details how Wyoming will meet the ESSA requirements in order to qualify for federal funds. It includes state education goals, accountability standards that districts will adhere to, and how districts will be supported in their efforts to reach and maintain those standards and goals. The plan touches on all aspects of education such as special education, English language learners, and professional development of educators.
School libraries were mentioned as an important factor in academic achievement. Their inclusion in the ESSA plan was a testament to Wyoming’s commitment to education and understanding of the value of all educators in the school environment.
The approved plan can be viewed at edu.wyoming.gov/essa.