y progress" (AYP) standards (Simpson et al. 68) that should be fulfilled by all students at the schools. The success of the schools in meeting these standards are determined by the students' scores on standardized tests. As mentioned earlier, while schools that meet the standards are provided with financial rewards, those that fail are labeled "in need of improvement" (Simpson et al. 68) will first be given assistance and then subject to sanctions such as the elimination of federal funding should they continue fail to improve their performance sufficiently (The White House "Closing the Achievement Gap").
Increasing Number of Qualified Teachers and Paraeducators
Another critical component of the NCLB is to ensure that all classes are taught by qualified teachers and paraeducators, based on the minimum requirements established by the NCLB. Although states are able to determine their own criteria, they are required comply with the NCLB guidelines. More specifically, teachers should have at least a bachelor's degree and satisfy the competencies in their content areas, as defined by their states. Paraeducators are also required to at least an associate degree, completed two years of study at a higher education institution, or passed a state or local test to demonstrate their knowledge and skills to provide assistance in reading, writing and math (Simpson et al. 68-69).
Utilizing Research-Based Educational Practices
The NCLB has also defined specific criteria for the types of research-based educational practices that should be implemented. According to the NCLB, only methods that have been proven by research studies utilizing a randomized, experimental research design are considered to be valid (Simpson et al. 68).
Increasing Educational Options for Parents
In an effort to increase parental involvement in their children's education, NCLB offers alternative options for parents of children who are attending fail...