Federalism in Education Essay Example
Federalism in Education Essay Example

Federalism in Education Essay Example

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Education is highly valued in the United States as a crucial means of improving society, reducing poverty and illness, and addressing cultural conflicts. In the past, local school districts had authority and funding control, but now the education system follows a federal governance model that involves all levels of government.

The significance of comprehending the relationships between government levels in education has become more crucial due to the expansion of State and Federal responsibilities, as well as the rising concentration of education. The transfer of authority from local levels is apparent in court cases like Brown v. Board of Education (1954) and Engel v. Vitale (1962). Additionally, advocates have been promoting decentralization of major urban school districts to attain influence, while certain commentators have begun questioning the importance and pertinence of local school boards.

William Bennett and Rod

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Paige propose the introduction of a national school test as a solution to address deficiencies in the education system. Their goal is to tackle these concerns by implementing national standards, conducting standardized tests, and improving school accountability. Currently, under The No Child Left Behind Act of 2002, each state has the authority to create its own tests and methods for holding schools accountable. This Act allows states to establish their own standards for assessing student performance. However, adopting a national test would ensure greater consistency in standards nationwide, compelling states to improve their evaluations and teaching approaches in order to meet this nationwide benchmark.

The American education system is in crisis, with an annual allocation of over $550 billion to K-12 public schools. Taxpayers contribute an average of $9,266 per student as of 2008. Despite this investment, many American students

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do not receive a satisfactory education. High school graduation rates in major cities nationwide are below 50 percent. Thus, the failure of public schools has significant implications for individuals and society.

It is crucial for both federal and state policymakers to recognize the urgency of the educational crisis and implement policies to reform the education system. Neglecting this issue can have detrimental consequences for our nation's prosperity and security. Given the declining global position of the United States, it is vital for the federal government to play a role in shaping education policy as it remains a significant national concern. However, increased government intervention in education has posed a threat to educational authority stability over the past five decades.

Many people believe that The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) was a significant and far-reaching endeavor. It was an aggressive and elaborate attempt by the federal government to progress American education. However, over time, the NCLB has become ineffective in its one-size-fits-all approach.

Recently, there is a proposed solution to the nation's educational crisis called the National School Test. Advocates of this test believe that maintaining an academic advantage over international peers requires the federal government to establish national standards for education and actively enforce them.

The purpose of the National School Test is to assist the educational program of the country, but it has the potential to create a power struggle between the Federal Government and the States. Traditionally, education has been under the jurisdiction of state and local governments as it is seen as a collaborative effort involving families and communities rather than solely a government initiative. However, with the introduction of the National School Test, states

are required to adapt their approaches to enhancing student proficiency in order to receive federal benefits.

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