The “No Child Left Behind” Act of 2001 contains new requirements for supplemental educational services. Below are selected highlights of how the provision is supposed to work, drawn from draft guidelines issued in August by the Department of Education.
What? Supplemental services are extra academic instruction. The services may include tutoring and other educational interventions, such as an after-school enrichment program, and must be provided outside the regular school day.
When? In general, if a Title I school fails to make “adequate yearly progress” (as defined by a state) for at least three consecutive years, the district must provide a choice of supplemental services and use a portion of its Title I aid to pay the cost.
Who Is Eligible? Only children from low-income families attending an identified school. Districts must give priority to the lowest-achieving eligible students.
Who Provides Services? Each state must approve providers, both public and private. The state must consider several criteria, including the provider’s record of improving achievement and documentation that the provider’s instructional strategies are of high quality and are research-based. Providers may include, among others: nonprofits, including faith-based groups; for-profit entities; school districts; public or private schools; and colleges and universities.
How Long? Students are eligible as long as their school is identified as low-performing.
How Much? Unless a smaller amount is required, a district must spend at least 20 percent of its Title I allocation to pay for supplemental services, transportation related to school choice, or a combination.
