Related Resources Letter to Superintendents

A new toll-free information resource provides superintendents with key information about the historic education reform law, No Child Left Behind, U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige announced today.

The new resource line—1 (888) NCLB-SUP, or 1 (888) 625-2787—offers information about all facets of the No Child Left Behind Act, including accountability and measuring school progress, supplemental educational services such as tutoring, public school choice options, Reading First grants that help students learn to read at an early age, and details on the highly qualified teachers provisions of the law.

"Superintendents are on the frontlines of implementing No Child Left Behind, and having walked in their shoes, I know firsthand many of the challenges they face," said Paige, who himself was a superintendent before becoming secretary. "This new resource is a one-stop shop that gives superintendents prompt assistance so that they can more effectively implement No Child Left Behind, thus turning the president's and Congress' vital vision of a quality education for every child, in every school into a reality. Now the answers to superintendents' questions are just a phone call away."

By calling the information line, superintendents have a direct link to the U.S. Department of Education for targeted, quick and concise responses to questions about NCLB. The information line is staffed weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST. During off-hours, or when the lines are busy during the week, superintendents will be able to leave messages. They also may send e-mail inquiries to NCLBSUP@ed.gov. Staff will ensure that all issues are addressed as quickly as possible.

No Child Left Behind is designed to change the culture of America's schools by closing the educational achievement gap, offering more flexibility, giving parents more options and teaching students based on what works.

Under the act's strong accountability provisions, states must describe how they will close the achievement gaps and make sure all students, including those who are disadvantaged, 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.

More information about the No Child Left Behind Act is available at www.ed.gov.

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