Every Student Succeeds Act

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) was signed into law by President Obama on December 10, 2015. This legislation reauthorized the 50-year-old Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)—the education law of the nation—and its longstanding commitment to equal opportunity for all students. The new law, which replaced No Child Left Behind (NCLB), provides greater flexibility to state and local governments when implementing programs and ensures that all students are prepared for college and careers.

ASHA has developed a guide to provide its members with a brief overview of the main components of ESSA that will have the greatest impact on them. View the Every Student Succeeds Act: Key Issues for ASHA Members [PDF].

Regulations and Guidance

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) continues to reach out to stakeholders to provide input and collect feedback related to implementing programs under ESSA. ED is developing regulations and other guidance to assist states, local districts, and schools with ESSA's implementation.

Note: Congress rescinded ESSA rules on accountability that holds schools accountable for student performance under ESSA.