Calendar March

National Women’s History

Month, an observance sponsored
by the National Women’s History
Project to recognize the contribu-
QA & How do I apply for student financial aid?
Meanwhile, assemble the documents needed
to fill out the FAFSA, including: your most
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
ED PUBS
P.O. BOX 1398
JESSUP, MD 20794-1398
The

VOL.6, NO.3 MARCH 2007

PRESORTED
FIRST CLASS
PAID
CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD
PERMIT NO. 557
The
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

tions of women to American recent income tax return and W-2 forms;

M
ore than $80 billion in federal driver’s license; proof of citizenship; and state- VOL.6, NO.3 MARCH 2007 www.ed.gov
culture. In light of this year’s
grants, loans and work-study assis- ments verifying family investments and assets.
theme, “Generations of Women tance is available to help students
Moving History Forward,” the
project’s online resource center
pay for postsecondary education. To receive
financial aid for the 2007–08 academic year,
You may use the FAFSA on the Web Work-
sheet to help you organize your data before
entering it online.
President’s Plan Calls for Largest Proposed Budget Invests More
includes links to research about
the Women’s Rights Movement,
students are encouraged to apply as soon as
possible to take advantage of these funds.
Completing the Free Application for Federal
2. Completing the FAFSA. Once you have
gathered the pertinent information, fill out
the financial aid form and submit it. If you do
Pell Grant Increase Since 1974
Into NCLB, Neediest Students
notable Latinas, famous speeches
and biographies of female pio-
neers. Visit http://www.nwhp.org
or call 707-636-2888.
Student Aid (FAFSA) at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov
is the first step in the process. While the appli-
cation is also available in paper form, filing
online eliminates mail delays and identifies
not complete the application all at once, the
system will save your data and allow you to
resume filing later. In addition, once your
FAFSA is processed, the information entered
O n Feb. 5, President Bush revealed his
education budget proposal for fiscal
year 2008, which would provide an
increase in resources to improve the nation’s
public schools overall, promote rigor in high
high schools serving large numbers of students
from low-income families, while continuing to
fund Title I elementary and middle schools;
> $500 million for School Improvement grants
to help states restructure, reform and re-staff 2
I N S I D E

Pandemic Flu Guidance

errors that can be corrected immediately. It’s will be available next year to file a Renewal
schools and help more students afford college. chronically underperforming schools;
as easy as 1-2-3. FAFSA online.
The president’s request of $56 billion > $300 million for Promise scholar- Around the Country—
1. Before applying. Register for a Federal 3. After applying. Within 72 hours of
would make bold investments in ships ($250 million) and Opportunity Illinois and Indiana
Student Aid PIN at http://www.pin.ed.gov. filing, a Student Aid Report will be generated,
March 1–20 education by increasing funding for scholarships ($50 million) to
Your PIN—which you will need throughout listing all of the answers provided on the
the landmark No Child Left Behind expand school choice options for 5 Calendar
Supplemental Educational your college career—serves as your electronic application. If changes need to be made, select
Act (NCLB) to $24.5 billion—up students in low-performing schools;
signature on your application, secures your “Make Corrections to a Processed FAFSA”
Services Regional Workshops, 41 percent since 2001—to reach > $365 million for the American Q&A—Free Application for
data and allows you to make changes to your from the “FAFSA Follow-up” section on the
sponsored by the U.S. Depart- the goal of every child reading and Competitiveness Initiative to Federal Student Aid
application as well as view and print your FAFSA home page. You may also check the
ment of Education. This doing math at grade level by 2014. promote early instruction and high
Student Aid Report. Your PIN application status of your application online at any time.
Overall, it would be an increase of school rigor in core subjects like Education News Parents
workshop series provides free will take 1-3 days to process if an e-mail For more information, contact the Can Use
$1.2 billion to help fund the presi- math, science and critical foreign
technical assistance for organi- address is provided, and 7-10 days when Federal Student Aid Information Center at
dent’s priorities for NCLB reauthorization languages;
only a postal address is submitted. 1-800-4FED AID (1-800-433-3243).
zations interested in becoming Frequently Asked Questions About Education this year, as outlined in his plan Building > $199 million for the Teacher Incentive Fund 6 Frequently Asked
Questions About Education
approved providers of supple- on Results. to reward educators raising student achievement,
mental educational services Among the highlights of his budget request are: as well as those who choose to serve in the need-
News Show Looks at Higher Education > $13.9 billion for the Title I Program—up iest schools;
for disadvantaged students.

F
or quick answers to frequently additional information from internal 59 percent since 2001—to increase support for > $10.5 billion for the Special Education
Locations and dates include: the commission’s recently asked questions about education, and external sources. In addition, some

M
aking college > continued on page 2
March 1, Bridgeport, Conn.; education released final report, the U.S. Department of Education answers are available in Spanish. U.S. Department of Education Making History
March 7, Detroit; March 13, more afford- which provides recom- offers an online resource filled with up- Among the questions listed on the site are: 400 Maryland Ave. S.W.

Oklahoma City; and March 20, able and accessible for all
students in today’s global
mendations about how
college can be made more
to-date information on numerous aspects
of federal law, policy and initiatives.
> How do I find out how my child’s school
is performing and if my child is eligible for
Washington, DC 20202

The Achiever is a monthly publication L.A. County School With Disadvantaged Ethnic
Baltimore. Visit http://www.ed.gov
or call 1-800-USA-LEARN.
economy will be the focus
of the March edition of
accessible to and less
costly for students; and
The Web site http://answers.ed.gov
answers more than 100 questions related
school choice or supplemental educational
services?
for parents and community leaders from
the Office of Communications and
Outreach, U.S. Department of Education
Populations Scores Record Achievement
Education News Parents explore how the Depart- > What impact does testing have on (ED). Margaret Spellings, secretary.
to topics addressed by the Department, For her first Christmas at Ralph J. Bunche Elementary, an inner-city

‘‘
April 15–21 Can Use, the Department’s ment, parents, schools children? Comments? Contact Nicole Ashby,
including No Child Left Behind, financial school in Los Angeles County, Principal Mikara Solomon-
monthly television and higher education editor, at 202-401-0689 (fax), or at
National Library Week, an aid, special education, school choice, > I have a child with special needs. How [email protected]. Davis gave the teachers framed inspirational quotes, which
program. institutions together can
observance sponsored by the grants and research. Topics are avail- do I determine if the school is providing they hung in their classrooms. One quotation stood above the
Over a year and a half put the commission’s Address changes and subscriptions?
my child with an appropriate education
American Library Association ago, in recognition of the
emerging demands of the
recommendations into
action to better prepare
able in a fully searchable format that
includes responses with links to and services?
Contact 1-877-4ED-PUBS, or
[email protected]. Let’s give the rest, becoming a motto for the entire school: “Let’s give the
historians something to write about.”
since 1958. This year’s theme, > What kinds of programs do you have Information on ED programs, resources
Seven years later, following the staff’s innovative and per-
“Come Together @ Your Library,”
global marketplace and the vital role that
colleges play in helping our students meet such
students for college and help them to succeed
once enrolled. to help teachers pay back their loans?
and events? Contact 1-800-USA-LEARN,
or [email protected].
historians sistent efforts to create a culture of excellence, Bunche has
is part of a public awareness Each month, Education News Parents Can Use > How do I determine if a school is accred- made history. In 2006, it became the first school ever in
campaign to promote the value
demands, U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret
Spellings launched the Commission on the showcases: schools and school districts from
across the country; conversations with school
ited by the U.S. Department of Education?
As an added feature, users can submit
The Achiever contains news and information
about and from public and private organizations
for the reader’s information. Inclusion does not
something to the Compton Unified School District to win the esteemed
California Distinguished School Award. It was also the first
Future of Higher Education with a very clear
of libraries and their staffs.
Visit http://www.ala.org
purpose: to launch a healthy, national dialogue
on the vital issues of accessibility, affordability
officials, parents and education experts; and advice
and free resources for parents and educators.
an e-mail inquiry to the Department’s
Information Resource Center, which man-
constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Depart-
ment of Education of any products or services
offered or views expressed. This publication
write about. in the district to earn the state’s Title I Academic Achieve-
ment Award, an honor it has held for the past three years.
also contains hyperlinks and URLs created
or call 1-800-545-2433. and accountability. (On March 21–22, the secre- To learn about viewing options, including ages the site, and track the responses to all Bunche has merited these recognitions particularly in
and maintained by outside organizations and
tary will hold a Higher Education Summit to webcasts, visit http://www.ed.gov and click on the questions they have submitted through provided for the reader’s convenience. The light of serving mostly disadvantaged African-American
build on the recommendations of the commis- “Parents,” then “News Parents Can Use,” or call Department is not responsible for the accuracy and Latino student populations, of which four in 10 are
the “My Stuff” tab. of this information.
sion.) Guests on the March show will: discuss toll-free 1-800-USA-LEARN
> continued on page 3

page 5 page 6
> continued from page 1 > continued from page 1

Grants to States Program—up 66 percent nonnative English speakers. national corps of teachers that places culture of ‘no excuses,’ which in essence by a panel of faculty and brainstorm about future From left to right: Fourth-grader Alexous stands at the door of the “Princeton
since 2001—to help students with disabili- Proving that neither poverty nor limited recent college graduates in high-need results in a culture of excellence,” she asserted. members and parents and projects for improving student University” classroom; Principal Mikara Solomon-Davis; Interim Principal Amber
ties reach their full potential; English proficiency is necessarily the areas—she set out to unravel the sys- Those who were not committed to the must do a mock lesson to achievement. One extraordinary Young; and Resource Teacher Angella Martinez with fourth-graders Juan and
> $671 million for English Language cause of poor performance, Bunche temic causes of inferior schooling. new changes left that year, thus opening demonstrate their instruc- endeavor borne of these sessions is Alexous. On the cover, first-grader Starr. Photos by Ann Johansson.
Acquisition support—up 50 percent since has doubled overall the percentage of Believing she could effect change better the door for a new crop of teachers. Amber tional skills. the adoption of the College Bound initiative
2001—to help limited English proficient students in grades 2–5 doing math and at the leadership level, she enrolled in Young, another Teach for America place- Given the importance designed to introduce children early on to speak to the parents of fourth- and fifth- this year to where they will attend college.
students achieve academic success; and reading at grade level—from 39 percent Columbia University’s Teachers College ment, came to the school in fall 2001 and of high-quality teaching to the possibility of higher education. Support graders about various resources for funding The sheets, which are decoratively attached
> $15.4 billion for the Pell Grant Program— in 2003 to 84 percent in 2006, and from in New York City to pursue a master’s stayed well past her two-year pledge. Now student achievement, resource for the initiative is evidenced throughout a college education. to their photos, are posted on the classroom
a 76-percent increase since 2001—to raise the interim principal until Solomon-Davis teacher Angella Martinez says she is the building, with every classroom and Next to improving teacher quality and walls, keeping company with the framed

Photo courtesy of U.S. Embassy Japan

34 percent to 65 percent, respectively. degree in education.
the maximum amount per student to In fact, according to Adequate Yearly “I was totally impassioned by returns full-time from maternity leave, always astonished when others ask office adopting a college name and their raising expectations as measures for closing quotes Solomon-Davis gave the teachers
$4,600 in 2008, the largest increase in the Young has become one of the major players about the staff’s formula for success as if doors decorated with related paraphernalia. the achievement gap, Solomon-Davis says as well as other reminders of the school’s
Progress (AYP) measures for the last [teaching], but outraged by what was
program’s more than 30-year history; and that increasing accountability for student vision for success.
three years, Bunche is on par with happening,” said Solomon-Davis, who credited with the school’s progress. it were a secret. “We get questions like, For instance, the computer lab is referred to
to $5,400 by 2012.
schools in the more affluent districts of abandoned her plans for law school in “I do believe what is happening here ‘What are you doing with your [English Lan- as “Cal Tech” (for the California Institute progress through constant assessments is Martinez says that hearing the children
For a fact sheet on President Bush’s budget
Santa Monica and Torrance. Even more favor of the calling to teach. can be replicated. I don’t believe that this guage Learners]?’ We’re kind of like, ‘Well, of Technology) and Young’s office is under equally important. “You have to measure on talk about their dreams has made her
proposal and for Building on Results, visit
impressive is that virtually no achieve- In 2000, she returned to Compton, a is an anomaly,” said Young. “It’s definitely it’s what we do with all of our students— receive homework assistance the banner of the University of Virginia, a continual basis [to know] where you are proudest. “Hearing them say, ‘When I’m
http://www.ed.gov.
ment gap exists among its subgroups, city notorious for its gang violence and challenging. It’s a lot of hard work. But good teaching.’” Martinez, a Teach for and participate in extracurricular Solomon-Davis’ alma mater. Also, at the in terms of reaching your goals,” she said. in college, I’m going to take this class,’ or
which means nearly all of the students abject poverty, this time hired to lead the our children deserve the hard work.” America alum who came to Bunche at the activities in a safe environment. beginning of the year, the school hosts a Every Friday students at Bunche take a ‘When I become a doctor, I’m going to work
are performing equally well. same time as Young and who What’s more, these pep rally, at which children wear their class- teacher-developed skills test to check their at this hospital’—
A Healthy Approach “Everybody is addressing this is now responsible educational rooms’ college colors and get their faces mastery of the material taught that week. those sorts of
economic divide as the biggest cri- for teacher training, opportunities carry painted with, for instance, a little wildcat’s The staff receive the results the following things, where

A n essential new resource for com-

munities, schools and colleges that
offers guidance on strategies to
help delay or limit the spread of an
influenza pandemic until a
sis our country and our world are
facing,” said Principal Solomon-
Davis. “If you want to solve that,
you have to educate the people on
said the staff work
hard to address the
needs of every single
student, “so it’s not
over into the sum-
mer with a program
that substitutes as a
day camp for many
paw to symbolize Northwestern University.
And, in a further attempt to familiarize
the students with college life, they are taken
on tours of area campuses, primarily those
Monday. Based on the same scale as the
state’s accountability report, student per-
formance is rated from “far below basic”
to “advanced.” The specifics of the out-
they’re think-
ing about their
future, about
their community,
the downside of that divide … this … a blanket lesson.” of the children who of the University of Southern California and comes, discussed in grade-level meetings, about their place
way they can lift up themselves The result is cannot afford other the University of California–Los Angeles, inform teachers where they need to adjust in the world, and
and their communities, which is instruction that summer enrich- the latter being the institution from which instruction. they know that
true empowerment.” Young describes ment experiences. the school’s namesake, Ralph Bunche, grad- At the same time that students are work- they’re valued.”
It was the quality of education as “wonderful, Solomon-Davis, uated and went on to become the first ing to achieve the state and school’s goals,
that children in impoverished engaging and differ- who initiated both African-American to they are also trying to reach their own. —BY NICOLE
schools were receiving that com- entiated,” which the after-school and receive a Nobel At the start of the school year, all of ASHBY
pelled Solomon-Davis to become often includes summer programs, Peace Prize. the children fill
an administrator. After teaching manipulatives such said these efforts Financial aid out a goals
three years at a school in as Skittles candy, have provided representatives sheet that
Compton, where she had to illustrate a lesson invaluable time are also invited lists their
been assigned by Teach on fractions. for remediation to Bunche short- and
for America—the At Bunche, the and intervention, Elementary to long-term
devotion to teaching as proven by plans—from
extends considerably the number of what they will
faltering Bunche Elementary. Undeterred That is why the school has a strict hiring beyond the regular school day. Nearly all participating students who score high on accomplish
by the issues in the community, which process: to ensure that new teachers are 21 teachers stay after school several days a the state exam.
she viewed simply as obstacles to over- committed to the school’s mission, she said, week to tutor students from 2:30 to 4 p.m., Behind the scenes, there is a lot of teacher
vaccine is available was just released by come, Solomon-Davis first worked on and that they understand a culture of “what- while some stay later as part of another pro-
the departments of Education and Health collaboration taking place, which is fostered
raising the level of expectations regard- ever my kids need, I’m going to do.” Before a gram that allows working parents to let their in weekly meetings, where faculty mem-
and Human Services’ Centers for Disease ing not only what the children could do, selection is made, applicants are interviewed children remain at school until 6 p.m. to
Control and Prevention, along with other bers analyze data, share best practices
but also what the teachers, parents and
federal agencies. The publication, Interim

Ralph J. Bunche Elementary School

she could do. “You really have to create a
Pre-pandemic Planning Guidance: Community
Strategy for Pandemic Influenza Mitigation
in the United States, suggests intervention
measures such as avoiding large crowds,
encouraging telework and closing schools,
AROUND THE COUNTRY
if necessary. ILLINOIS—A set of donations Science Academy will serve about 530 students INDIANA—Two virtual public charter Each student will receive a loaned computer > Grade Span: K–5 > Percentage Proficient: In math, 84%; in
For an online copy, visit reading, 65% (based on second- through
totaling $4.2 million will help open when fully enrolled, and offer a rigorous cur- schools, the first of their kind in Indiana, and an Internet connection, and textbooks > Locale: Urban
fifth-graders assessed on the 2006 state
http://www.pandemicflu.gov. Later this Chicago’s first math and science public riculum that requires six instead of four credits received approval last month from officials and other supporting materials throughout > Total Students: 417 exam)
year, the Education Department plans to high school this fall, city officials of math and four lab sciences. The academy’s at Ball State University, the chartering the year. State-certified teachers will assign
offer additional guidelines to explain how > Race/Ethnicity Enrollment: 50% Latino, > Interesting Fact: In 2006, Bunche became
announced in February. Named in school day and school year will be extended to authority, to open for the 2007–08 school lessons and monitor student progress, com-
48% African-American, 2% multiracial the first school ever in the Compton Uni-
requirements and implementation of fed- honor of its donors—Exelon Chairman provide for about 33 percent more reading and year. Created to serve students statewide, municating online or in person. Thousands fied School District to win the California
eral education programs may be affected. John Rowe and fellow utility company math instruction. On the Noble Street Charter the Indiana Virtual Charter School and the of families have already expressed interest > Free and Reduced-Price Lunch
Distinguished School Award. It was also
executive ComEd Chairman Frank School campus, the school will be open to all Indiana Connections Academy will start in applying for one of the 2,200 slots. Eligible: 93%
the first in the district to earn the state’s
Clark—the Rowe-Clark Math and graduating eighth-graders in the city. with grades K–10 and K–11, respectively. > English Language Learners: 42% Title I Academic Achievement Award, an
> Special Education Students: 10% honor it has held for the past three years.
page 2 page 3 page 4
> continued from page 1 > continued from page 1

Grants to States Program—up 66 percent nonnative English speakers. national corps of teachers that places culture of ‘no excuses,’ which in essence by a panel of faculty and brainstorm about future From left to right: Fourth-grader Alexous stands at the door of the “Princeton
since 2001—to help students with disabili- Proving that neither poverty nor limited recent college graduates in high-need results in a culture of excellence,” she asserted. members and parents and projects for improving student University” classroom; Principal Mikara Solomon-Davis; Interim Principal Amber
ties reach their full potential; English proficiency is necessarily the areas—she set out to unravel the sys- Those who were not committed to the must do a mock lesson to achievement. One extraordinary Young; and Resource Teacher Angella Martinez with fourth-graders Juan and
> $671 million for English Language cause of poor performance, Bunche temic causes of inferior schooling. new changes left that year, thus opening demonstrate their instruc- endeavor borne of these sessions is Alexous. On the cover, first-grader Starr. Photos by Ann Johansson.
Acquisition support—up 50 percent since has doubled overall the percentage of Believing she could effect change better the door for a new crop of teachers. Amber tional skills. the adoption of the College Bound initiative
2001—to help limited English proficient students in grades 2–5 doing math and at the leadership level, she enrolled in Young, another Teach for America place- Given the importance designed to introduce children early on to speak to the parents of fourth- and fifth- this year to where they will attend college.
students achieve academic success; and reading at grade level—from 39 percent Columbia University’s Teachers College ment, came to the school in fall 2001 and of high-quality teaching to the possibility of higher education. Support graders about various resources for funding The sheets, which are decoratively attached
> $15.4 billion for the Pell Grant Program— in 2003 to 84 percent in 2006, and from in New York City to pursue a master’s stayed well past her two-year pledge. Now student achievement, resource for the initiative is evidenced throughout a college education. to their photos, are posted on the classroom
a 76-percent increase since 2001—to raise the interim principal until Solomon-Davis teacher Angella Martinez says she is the building, with every classroom and Next to improving teacher quality and walls, keeping company with the framed

Photo courtesy of U.S. Embassy Japan

34 percent to 65 percent, respectively. degree in education.
the maximum amount per student to In fact, according to Adequate Yearly “I was totally impassioned by returns full-time from maternity leave, always astonished when others ask office adopting a college name and their raising expectations as measures for closing quotes Solomon-Davis gave the teachers
$4,600 in 2008, the largest increase in the Young has become one of the major players about the staff’s formula for success as if doors decorated with related paraphernalia. the achievement gap, Solomon-Davis says as well as other reminders of the school’s
Progress (AYP) measures for the last [teaching], but outraged by what was
program’s more than 30-year history; and that increasing accountability for student vision for success.
three years, Bunche is on par with happening,” said Solomon-Davis, who credited with the school’s progress. it were a secret. “We get questions like, For instance, the computer lab is referred to
to $5,400 by 2012.
schools in the more affluent districts of abandoned her plans for law school in “I do believe what is happening here ‘What are you doing with your [English Lan- as “Cal Tech” (for the California Institute progress through constant assessments is Martinez says that hearing the children
For a fact sheet on President Bush’s budget
Santa Monica and Torrance. Even more favor of the calling to teach. can be replicated. I don’t believe that this guage Learners]?’ We’re kind of like, ‘Well, of Technology) and Young’s office is under equally important. “You have to measure on talk about their dreams has made her
proposal and for Building on Results, visit
impressive is that virtually no achieve- In 2000, she returned to Compton, a is an anomaly,” said Young. “It’s definitely it’s what we do with all of our students— receive homework assistance the banner of the University of Virginia, a continual basis [to know] where you are proudest. “Hearing them say, ‘When I’m
http://www.ed.gov.
ment gap exists among its subgroups, city notorious for its gang violence and challenging. It’s a lot of hard work. But good teaching.’” Martinez, a Teach for and participate in extracurricular Solomon-Davis’ alma mater. Also, at the in terms of reaching your goals,” she said. in college, I’m going to take this class,’ or
which means nearly all of the students abject poverty, this time hired to lead the our children deserve the hard work.” America alum who came to Bunche at the activities in a safe environment. beginning of the year, the school hosts a Every Friday students at Bunche take a ‘When I become a doctor, I’m going to work
are performing equally well. same time as Young and who What’s more, these pep rally, at which children wear their class- teacher-developed skills test to check their at this hospital’—
A Healthy Approach “Everybody is addressing this is now responsible educational rooms’ college colors and get their faces mastery of the material taught that week. those sorts of
economic divide as the biggest cri- for teacher training, opportunities carry painted with, for instance, a little wildcat’s The staff receive the results the following things, where

A n essential new resource for com-

munities, schools and colleges that
offers guidance on strategies to
help delay or limit the spread of an
influenza pandemic until a
sis our country and our world are
facing,” said Principal Solomon-
Davis. “If you want to solve that,
you have to educate the people on
said the staff work
hard to address the
needs of every single
student, “so it’s not
over into the sum-
mer with a program
that substitutes as a
day camp for many
paw to symbolize Northwestern University.
And, in a further attempt to familiarize
the students with college life, they are taken
on tours of area campuses, primarily those
Monday. Based on the same scale as the
state’s accountability report, student per-
formance is rated from “far below basic”
to “advanced.” The specifics of the out-
they’re think-
ing about their
future, about
their community,
the downside of that divide … this … a blanket lesson.” of the children who of the University of Southern California and comes, discussed in grade-level meetings, about their place
way they can lift up themselves The result is cannot afford other the University of California–Los Angeles, inform teachers where they need to adjust in the world, and
and their communities, which is instruction that summer enrich- the latter being the institution from which instruction. they know that
true empowerment.” Young describes ment experiences. the school’s namesake, Ralph Bunche, grad- At the same time that students are work- they’re valued.”
It was the quality of education as “wonderful, Solomon-Davis, uated and went on to become the first ing to achieve the state and school’s goals,
that children in impoverished engaging and differ- who initiated both African-American to they are also trying to reach their own. —BY NICOLE
schools were receiving that com- entiated,” which the after-school and receive a Nobel At the start of the school year, all of ASHBY
pelled Solomon-Davis to become often includes summer programs, Peace Prize. the children fill
an administrator. After teaching manipulatives such said these efforts Financial aid out a goals
three years at a school in as Skittles candy, have provided representatives sheet that
Compton, where she had to illustrate a lesson invaluable time are also invited lists their
been assigned by Teach on fractions. for remediation to Bunche short- and
for America—the At Bunche, the and intervention, Elementary to long-term
devotion to teaching as proven by plans—from
extends considerably the number of what they will
faltering Bunche Elementary. Undeterred That is why the school has a strict hiring beyond the regular school day. Nearly all participating students who score high on accomplish
by the issues in the community, which process: to ensure that new teachers are 21 teachers stay after school several days a the state exam.
she viewed simply as obstacles to over- committed to the school’s mission, she said, week to tutor students from 2:30 to 4 p.m., Behind the scenes, there is a lot of teacher
vaccine is available was just released by come, Solomon-Davis first worked on and that they understand a culture of “what- while some stay later as part of another pro-
the departments of Education and Health collaboration taking place, which is fostered
raising the level of expectations regard- ever my kids need, I’m going to do.” Before a gram that allows working parents to let their in weekly meetings, where faculty mem-
and Human Services’ Centers for Disease ing not only what the children could do, selection is made, applicants are interviewed children remain at school until 6 p.m. to
Control and Prevention, along with other bers analyze data, share best practices
but also what the teachers, parents and
federal agencies. The publication, Interim

Ralph J. Bunche Elementary School

she could do. “You really have to create a
Pre-pandemic Planning Guidance: Community
Strategy for Pandemic Influenza Mitigation
in the United States, suggests intervention
measures such as avoiding large crowds,
encouraging telework and closing schools,
AROUND THE COUNTRY
if necessary. ILLINOIS—A set of donations Science Academy will serve about 530 students INDIANA—Two virtual public charter Each student will receive a loaned computer > Grade Span: K–5 > Percentage Proficient: In math, 84%; in
For an online copy, visit reading, 65% (based on second- through
totaling $4.2 million will help open when fully enrolled, and offer a rigorous cur- schools, the first of their kind in Indiana, and an Internet connection, and textbooks > Locale: Urban
fifth-graders assessed on the 2006 state
http://www.pandemicflu.gov. Later this Chicago’s first math and science public riculum that requires six instead of four credits received approval last month from officials and other supporting materials throughout > Total Students: 417 exam)
year, the Education Department plans to high school this fall, city officials of math and four lab sciences. The academy’s at Ball State University, the chartering the year. State-certified teachers will assign
offer additional guidelines to explain how > Race/Ethnicity Enrollment: 50% Latino, > Interesting Fact: In 2006, Bunche became
announced in February. Named in school day and school year will be extended to authority, to open for the 2007–08 school lessons and monitor student progress, com-
48% African-American, 2% multiracial the first school ever in the Compton Uni-
requirements and implementation of fed- honor of its donors—Exelon Chairman provide for about 33 percent more reading and year. Created to serve students statewide, municating online or in person. Thousands fied School District to win the California
eral education programs may be affected. John Rowe and fellow utility company math instruction. On the Noble Street Charter the Indiana Virtual Charter School and the of families have already expressed interest > Free and Reduced-Price Lunch
Distinguished School Award. It was also
executive ComEd Chairman Frank School campus, the school will be open to all Indiana Connections Academy will start in applying for one of the 2,200 slots. Eligible: 93%
the first in the district to earn the state’s
Clark—the Rowe-Clark Math and graduating eighth-graders in the city. with grades K–10 and K–11, respectively. > English Language Learners: 42% Title I Academic Achievement Award, an
> Special Education Students: 10% honor it has held for the past three years.
page 2 page 3 page 4
> continued from page 1 > continued from page 1

Grants to States Program—up 66 percent nonnative English speakers. national corps of teachers that places culture of ‘no excuses,’ which in essence by a panel of faculty and brainstorm about future From left to right: Fourth-grader Alexous stands at the door of the “Princeton
since 2001—to help students with disabili- Proving that neither poverty nor limited recent college graduates in high-need results in a culture of excellence,” she asserted. members and parents and projects for improving student University” classroom; Principal Mikara Solomon-Davis; Interim Principal Amber
ties reach their full potential; English proficiency is necessarily the areas—she set out to unravel the sys- Those who were not committed to the must do a mock lesson to achievement. One extraordinary Young; and Resource Teacher Angella Martinez with fourth-graders Juan and
> $671 million for English Language cause of poor performance, Bunche temic causes of inferior schooling. new changes left that year, thus opening demonstrate their instruc- endeavor borne of these sessions is Alexous. On the cover, first-grader Starr. Photos by Ann Johansson.
Acquisition support—up 50 percent since has doubled overall the percentage of Believing she could effect change better the door for a new crop of teachers. Amber tional skills. the adoption of the College Bound initiative
2001—to help limited English proficient students in grades 2–5 doing math and at the leadership level, she enrolled in Young, another Teach for America place- Given the importance designed to introduce children early on to speak to the parents of fourth- and fifth- this year to where they will attend college.
students achieve academic success; and reading at grade level—from 39 percent Columbia University’s Teachers College ment, came to the school in fall 2001 and of high-quality teaching to the possibility of higher education. Support graders about various resources for funding The sheets, which are decoratively attached
> $15.4 billion for the Pell Grant Program— in 2003 to 84 percent in 2006, and from in New York City to pursue a master’s stayed well past her two-year pledge. Now student achievement, resource for the initiative is evidenced throughout a college education. to their photos, are posted on the classroom
a 76-percent increase since 2001—to raise the interim principal until Solomon-Davis teacher Angella Martinez says she is the building, with every classroom and Next to improving teacher quality and walls, keeping company with the framed

Photo courtesy of U.S. Embassy Japan

34 percent to 65 percent, respectively. degree in education.
the maximum amount per student to In fact, according to Adequate Yearly “I was totally impassioned by returns full-time from maternity leave, always astonished when others ask office adopting a college name and their raising expectations as measures for closing quotes Solomon-Davis gave the teachers
$4,600 in 2008, the largest increase in the Young has become one of the major players about the staff’s formula for success as if doors decorated with related paraphernalia. the achievement gap, Solomon-Davis says as well as other reminders of the school’s
Progress (AYP) measures for the last [teaching], but outraged by what was
program’s more than 30-year history; and that increasing accountability for student vision for success.
three years, Bunche is on par with happening,” said Solomon-Davis, who credited with the school’s progress. it were a secret. “We get questions like, For instance, the computer lab is referred to
to $5,400 by 2012.
schools in the more affluent districts of abandoned her plans for law school in “I do believe what is happening here ‘What are you doing with your [English Lan- as “Cal Tech” (for the California Institute progress through constant assessments is Martinez says that hearing the children
For a fact sheet on President Bush’s budget
Santa Monica and Torrance. Even more favor of the calling to teach. can be replicated. I don’t believe that this guage Learners]?’ We’re kind of like, ‘Well, of Technology) and Young’s office is under equally important. “You have to measure on talk about their dreams has made her
proposal and for Building on Results, visit
impressive is that virtually no achieve- In 2000, she returned to Compton, a is an anomaly,” said Young. “It’s definitely it’s what we do with all of our students— receive homework assistance the banner of the University of Virginia, a continual basis [to know] where you are proudest. “Hearing them say, ‘When I’m
http://www.ed.gov.
ment gap exists among its subgroups, city notorious for its gang violence and challenging. It’s a lot of hard work. But good teaching.’” Martinez, a Teach for and participate in extracurricular Solomon-Davis’ alma mater. Also, at the in terms of reaching your goals,” she said. in college, I’m going to take this class,’ or
which means nearly all of the students abject poverty, this time hired to lead the our children deserve the hard work.” America alum who came to Bunche at the activities in a safe environment. beginning of the year, the school hosts a Every Friday students at Bunche take a ‘When I become a doctor, I’m going to work
are performing equally well. same time as Young and who What’s more, these pep rally, at which children wear their class- teacher-developed skills test to check their at this hospital’—
A Healthy Approach “Everybody is addressing this is now responsible educational rooms’ college colors and get their faces mastery of the material taught that week. those sorts of
economic divide as the biggest cri- for teacher training, opportunities carry painted with, for instance, a little wildcat’s The staff receive the results the following things, where

A n essential new resource for com-

munities, schools and colleges that
offers guidance on strategies to
help delay or limit the spread of an
influenza pandemic until a
sis our country and our world are
facing,” said Principal Solomon-
Davis. “If you want to solve that,
you have to educate the people on
said the staff work
hard to address the
needs of every single
student, “so it’s not
over into the sum-
mer with a program
that substitutes as a
day camp for many
paw to symbolize Northwestern University.
And, in a further attempt to familiarize
the students with college life, they are taken
on tours of area campuses, primarily those
Monday. Based on the same scale as the
state’s accountability report, student per-
formance is rated from “far below basic”
to “advanced.” The specifics of the out-
they’re think-
ing about their
future, about
their community,
the downside of that divide … this … a blanket lesson.” of the children who of the University of Southern California and comes, discussed in grade-level meetings, about their place
way they can lift up themselves The result is cannot afford other the University of California–Los Angeles, inform teachers where they need to adjust in the world, and
and their communities, which is instruction that summer enrich- the latter being the institution from which instruction. they know that
true empowerment.” Young describes ment experiences. the school’s namesake, Ralph Bunche, grad- At the same time that students are work- they’re valued.”
It was the quality of education as “wonderful, Solomon-Davis, uated and went on to become the first ing to achieve the state and school’s goals,
that children in impoverished engaging and differ- who initiated both African-American to they are also trying to reach their own. —BY NICOLE
schools were receiving that com- entiated,” which the after-school and receive a Nobel At the start of the school year, all of ASHBY
pelled Solomon-Davis to become often includes summer programs, Peace Prize. the children fill
an administrator. After teaching manipulatives such said these efforts Financial aid out a goals
three years at a school in as Skittles candy, have provided representatives sheet that
Compton, where she had to illustrate a lesson invaluable time are also invited lists their
been assigned by Teach on fractions. for remediation to Bunche short- and
for America—the At Bunche, the and intervention, Elementary to long-term
devotion to teaching as proven by plans—from
extends considerably the number of what they will
faltering Bunche Elementary. Undeterred That is why the school has a strict hiring beyond the regular school day. Nearly all participating students who score high on accomplish
by the issues in the community, which process: to ensure that new teachers are 21 teachers stay after school several days a the state exam.
she viewed simply as obstacles to over- committed to the school’s mission, she said, week to tutor students from 2:30 to 4 p.m., Behind the scenes, there is a lot of teacher
vaccine is available was just released by come, Solomon-Davis first worked on and that they understand a culture of “what- while some stay later as part of another pro-
the departments of Education and Health collaboration taking place, which is fostered
raising the level of expectations regard- ever my kids need, I’m going to do.” Before a gram that allows working parents to let their in weekly meetings, where faculty mem-
and Human Services’ Centers for Disease ing not only what the children could do, selection is made, applicants are interviewed children remain at school until 6 p.m. to
Control and Prevention, along with other bers analyze data, share best practices
but also what the teachers, parents and
federal agencies. The publication, Interim

Ralph J. Bunche Elementary School

she could do. “You really have to create a
Pre-pandemic Planning Guidance: Community
Strategy for Pandemic Influenza Mitigation
in the United States, suggests intervention
measures such as avoiding large crowds,
encouraging telework and closing schools,
AROUND THE COUNTRY
if necessary. ILLINOIS—A set of donations Science Academy will serve about 530 students INDIANA—Two virtual public charter Each student will receive a loaned computer > Grade Span: K–5 > Percentage Proficient: In math, 84%; in
For an online copy, visit reading, 65% (based on second- through
totaling $4.2 million will help open when fully enrolled, and offer a rigorous cur- schools, the first of their kind in Indiana, and an Internet connection, and textbooks > Locale: Urban
fifth-graders assessed on the 2006 state
http://www.pandemicflu.gov. Later this Chicago’s first math and science public riculum that requires six instead of four credits received approval last month from officials and other supporting materials throughout > Total Students: 417 exam)
year, the Education Department plans to high school this fall, city officials of math and four lab sciences. The academy’s at Ball State University, the chartering the year. State-certified teachers will assign
offer additional guidelines to explain how > Race/Ethnicity Enrollment: 50% Latino, > Interesting Fact: In 2006, Bunche became
announced in February. Named in school day and school year will be extended to authority, to open for the 2007–08 school lessons and monitor student progress, com-
48% African-American, 2% multiracial the first school ever in the Compton Uni-
requirements and implementation of fed- honor of its donors—Exelon Chairman provide for about 33 percent more reading and year. Created to serve students statewide, municating online or in person. Thousands fied School District to win the California
eral education programs may be affected. John Rowe and fellow utility company math instruction. On the Noble Street Charter the Indiana Virtual Charter School and the of families have already expressed interest > Free and Reduced-Price Lunch
Distinguished School Award. It was also
executive ComEd Chairman Frank School campus, the school will be open to all Indiana Connections Academy will start in applying for one of the 2,200 slots. Eligible: 93%
the first in the district to earn the state’s
Clark—the Rowe-Clark Math and graduating eighth-graders in the city. with grades K–10 and K–11, respectively. > English Language Learners: 42% Title I Academic Achievement Award, an
> Special Education Students: 10% honor it has held for the past three years.
page 2 page 3 page 4
Calendar March
National Women’s History
Month, an observance sponsored
by the National Women’s History
Project to recognize the contribu-
QA & How do I apply for student financial aid?
Meanwhile, assemble the documents needed
to fill out the FAFSA, including: your most
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
ED PUBS
P.O. BOX 1398
JESSUP, MD 20794-1398
The

VOL.6, NO.3 MARCH 2007

PRESORTED
FIRST CLASS
PAID
CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD
PERMIT NO. 557
The
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

tions of women to American recent income tax return and W-2 forms;

M
ore than $80 billion in federal driver’s license; proof of citizenship; and state- VOL.6, NO.3 MARCH 2007 www.ed.gov
culture. In light of this year’s
grants, loans and work-study assis- ments verifying family investments and assets.
theme, “Generations of Women tance is available to help students
Proposed Budget Invests More
You may use the FAFSA on the Web Work-
Moving History Forward,” the pay for postsecondary education. To receive sheet to help you organize your data before President’s Plan Calls for Largest
project’s online resource center financial aid for the 2007–08 academic year, entering it online.
includes links to research about
the Women’s Rights Movement,
students are encouraged to apply as soon as
possible to take advantage of these funds.
Completing the Free Application for Federal
2. Completing the FAFSA. Once you have
gathered the pertinent information, fill out
the financial aid form and submit it. If you do
Pell Grant Increase Since 1974
Into NCLB, Neediest Students
notable Latinas, famous speeches
and biographies of female pio-
neers. Visit http://www.nwhp.org
or call 707-636-2888.
Student Aid (FAFSA) at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov
is the first step in the process. While the appli-
cation is also available in paper form, filing
online eliminates mail delays and identifies
not complete the application all at once, the
system will save your data and allow you to
resume filing later. In addition, once your
FAFSA is processed, the information entered
O n Feb. 5, President Bush revealed his
education budget proposal for fiscal
year 2008, which would provide an
increase in resources to improve the nation’s
public schools overall, promote rigor in high
high schools serving large numbers of students
from low-income families, while continuing to
fund Title I elementary and middle schools;
> $500 million for School Improvement grants
to help states restructure, reform and re-staff 2
I N S I D E

Pandemic Flu Guidance

errors that can be corrected immediately. It’s will be available next year to file a Renewal
schools and help more students afford college. chronically underperforming schools;
as easy as 1-2-3. FAFSA online.
The president’s request of $56 billion > $300 million for Promise scholar- Around the Country—
1. Before applying. Register for a Federal 3. After applying. Within 72 hours of
would make bold investments in ships ($250 million) and Opportunity Illinois and Indiana
Student Aid PIN at http://www.pin.ed.gov. filing, a Student Aid Report will be generated,
March 1–20 education by increasing funding for scholarships ($50 million) to
Your PIN—which you will need throughout listing all of the answers provided on the
the landmark No Child Left Behind expand school choice options for 5 Calendar
Supplemental Educational your college career—serves as your electronic application. If changes need to be made, select
Act (NCLB) to $24.5 billion—up students in low-performing schools;
signature on your application, secures your “Make Corrections to a Processed FAFSA”
Services Regional Workshops, 41 percent since 2001—to reach > $365 million for the American Q&A—Free Application for
data and allows you to make changes to your from the “FAFSA Follow-up” section on the
sponsored by the U.S. Depart- the goal of every child reading and Competitiveness Initiative to Federal Student Aid
application as well as view and print your FAFSA home page. You may also check the
ment of Education. This doing math at grade level by 2014. promote early instruction and high
Student Aid Report. Your PIN application status of your application online at any time.
Overall, it would be an increase of school rigor in core subjects like Education News Parents
workshop series provides free will take 1-3 days to process if an e-mail For more information, contact the
$1.2 billion to help fund the presi- math, science and critical foreign Can Use
technical assistance for organi- address is provided, and 7-10 days when Federal Student Aid Information Center at
dent’s priorities for NCLB reauthorization languages;
only a postal address is submitted. 1-800-4FED AID (1-800-433-3243).
zations interested in becoming Frequently Asked Questions About Education this year, as outlined in his plan Building > $199 million for the Teacher Incentive Fund 6 Frequently Asked
Questions About Education
approved providers of supple- on Results. to reward educators raising student achievement,
mental educational services Among the highlights of his budget request are: as well as those who choose to serve in the need-
News Show Looks at Higher Education > $13.9 billion for the Title I Program—up iest schools;
for disadvantaged students.

F
or quick answers to frequently additional information from internal 59 percent since 2001—to increase support for > $10.5 billion for the Special Education
Locations and dates include: asked questions about education, and external sources. In addition, some

M
aking college the commission’s recently > continued on page 2
March 1, Bridgeport, Conn.; education released final report, the U.S. Department of Education answers are available in Spanish. U.S. Department of Education Making History
March 7, Detroit; March 13, more afford- which provides recom- offers an online resource filled with up- Among the questions listed on the site are: 400 Maryland Ave. S.W.

Oklahoma City; and March 20, able and accessible for all
students in today’s global
mendations about how
college can be made more
to-date information on numerous aspects
of federal law, policy and initiatives.
> How do I find out how my child’s school
is performing and if my child is eligible for
Washington, DC 20202

The Achiever is a monthly publication L.A. County School With Disadvantaged Ethnic
Baltimore. Visit http://www.ed.gov
or call 1-800-USA-LEARN.
economy will be the focus
of the March edition of
accessible to and less
costly for students; and
The Web site http://answers.ed.gov
answers more than 100 questions related
school choice or supplemental educational
services?
for parents and community leaders from
the Office of Communications and
Outreach, U.S. Department of Education
Populations Scores Record Achievement
Education News Parents explore how the Depart- > What impact does testing have on (ED). Margaret Spellings, secretary.
to topics addressed by the Department, For her first Christmas at Ralph J. Bunche Elementary, an inner-city

‘‘
April 15–21 Can Use, the Department’s ment, parents, schools children? Comments? Contact Nicole Ashby,
including No Child Left Behind, financial school in Los Angeles County, Principal Mikara Solomon-
monthly television and higher education editor, at 202-401-0689 (fax), or at
National Library Week, an aid, special education, school choice, > I have a child with special needs. How [email protected]. Davis gave the teachers framed inspirational quotes, which
program. institutions together can
observance sponsored by the grants and research. Topics are avail- do I determine if the school is providing Address changes and subscriptions? they hung in their classrooms. One quotation stood above the
Over a year and a half put the commission’s
my child with an appropriate education
American Library Association ago, in recognition of the
emerging demands of the
recommendations into
action to better prepare
able in a fully searchable format that
includes responses with links to and services?
Contact 1-877-4ED-PUBS, or
[email protected]. Let’s give the rest, becoming a motto for the entire school: “Let’s give the
historians something to write about.”
since 1958. This year’s theme, > What kinds of programs do you have Information on ED programs, resources
Seven years later, following the staff’s innovative and per-
“Come Together @ Your Library,”
global marketplace and the vital role that
colleges play in helping our students meet such
students for college and help them to succeed
once enrolled. to help teachers pay back their loans?
and events? Contact 1-800-USA-LEARN,
or [email protected].
historians sistent efforts to create a culture of excellence, Bunche has
is part of a public awareness Each month, Education News Parents Can Use > How do I determine if a school is accred- made history. In 2006, it became the first school ever in
campaign to promote the value
demands, U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret
Spellings launched the Commission on the showcases: schools and school districts from
across the country; conversations with school
ited by the U.S. Department of Education?
As an added feature, users can submit
The Achiever contains news and information
about and from public and private organizations
for the reader’s information. Inclusion does not
something to the Compton Unified School District to win the esteemed
California Distinguished School Award. It was also the first
Future of Higher Education with a very clear
of libraries and their staffs.
Visit http://www.ala.org
purpose: to launch a healthy, national dialogue
on the vital issues of accessibility, affordability
officials, parents and education experts; and advice
and free resources for parents and educators.
an e-mail inquiry to the Department’s
Information Resource Center, which man-
constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Depart-
ment of Education of any products or services
offered or views expressed. This publication
write about. in the district to earn the state’s Title I Academic Achieve-
ment Award, an honor it has held for the past three years.
also contains hyperlinks and URLs created
or call 1-800-545-2433. and accountability. (On March 21–22, the secre- To learn about viewing options, including ages the site, and track the responses to all Bunche has merited these recognitions particularly in
and maintained by outside organizations and
tary will hold a Higher Education Summit to webcasts, visit http://www.ed.gov and click on the questions they have submitted through provided for the reader’s convenience. The light of serving mostly disadvantaged African-American
build on the recommendations of the commis- “Parents,” then “News Parents Can Use,” or call the “My Stuff” tab. Department is not responsible for the accuracy and Latino student populations, of which four in 10 are
toll-free 1-800-USA-LEARN of this information.
sion.) Guests on the March show will: discuss > continued on page 3

page 5 page 6
Calendar March
National Women’s History
Month, an observance sponsored
by the National Women’s History
Project to recognize the contribu-
QA & How do I apply for student financial aid?
Meanwhile, assemble the documents needed
to fill out the FAFSA, including: your most
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
ED PUBS
P.O. BOX 1398
JESSUP, MD 20794-1398
The

VOL.6, NO.3 MARCH 2007

PRESORTED
FIRST CLASS
PAID
CAPITOL HEIGHTS, MD
PERMIT NO. 557
The
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

tions of women to American recent income tax return and W-2 forms;

M
ore than $80 billion in federal driver’s license; proof of citizenship; and state- VOL.6, NO.3 MARCH 2007 www.ed.gov
culture. In light of this year’s
grants, loans and work-study assis- ments verifying family investments and assets.
theme, “Generations of Women tance is available to help students
Proposed Budget Invests More
You may use the FAFSA on the Web Work-
Moving History Forward,” the pay for postsecondary education. To receive sheet to help you organize your data before President’s Plan Calls for Largest
project’s online resource center financial aid for the 2007–08 academic year, entering it online.
includes links to research about
the Women’s Rights Movement,
students are encouraged to apply as soon as
possible to take advantage of these funds.
Completing the Free Application for Federal
2. Completing the FAFSA. Once you have
gathered the pertinent information, fill out
the financial aid form and submit it. If you do
Pell Grant Increase Since 1974
Into NCLB, Neediest Students
notable Latinas, famous speeches
and biographies of female pio-
neers. Visit http://www.nwhp.org
or call 707-636-2888.
Student Aid (FAFSA) at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov
is the first step in the process. While the appli-
cation is also available in paper form, filing
online eliminates mail delays and identifies
not complete the application all at once, the
system will save your data and allow you to
resume filing later. In addition, once your
FAFSA is processed, the information entered
O n Feb. 5, President Bush revealed his
education budget proposal for fiscal
year 2008, which would provide an
increase in resources to improve the nation’s
public schools overall, promote rigor in high
high schools serving large numbers of students
from low-income families, while continuing to
fund Title I elementary and middle schools;
> $500 million for School Improvement grants
to help states restructure, reform and re-staff 2
I N S I D E

Pandemic Flu Guidance

errors that can be corrected immediately. It’s will be available next year to file a Renewal
schools and help more students afford college. chronically underperforming schools;
as easy as 1-2-3. FAFSA online.
The president’s request of $56 billion > $300 million for Promise scholar- Around the Country—
1. Before applying. Register for a Federal 3. After applying. Within 72 hours of
would make bold investments in ships ($250 million) and Opportunity Illinois and Indiana
Student Aid PIN at http://www.pin.ed.gov. filing, a Student Aid Report will be generated,
March 1–20 education by increasing funding for scholarships ($50 million) to
Your PIN—which you will need throughout listing all of the answers provided on the
the landmark No Child Left Behind expand school choice options for 5 Calendar
Supplemental Educational your college career—serves as your electronic application. If changes need to be made, select
Act (NCLB) to $24.5 billion—up students in low-performing schools;
signature on your application, secures your “Make Corrections to a Processed FAFSA”
Services Regional Workshops, 41 percent since 2001—to reach > $365 million for the American Q&A—Free Application for
data and allows you to make changes to your from the “FAFSA Follow-up” section on the
sponsored by the U.S. Depart- the goal of every child reading and Competitiveness Initiative to Federal Student Aid
application as well as view and print your FAFSA home page. You may also check the
ment of Education. This doing math at grade level by 2014. promote early instruction and high
Student Aid Report. Your PIN application status of your application online at any time.
Overall, it would be an increase of school rigor in core subjects like Education News Parents
workshop series provides free will take 1-3 days to process if an e-mail For more information, contact the
$1.2 billion to help fund the presi- math, science and critical foreign Can Use
technical assistance for organi- address is provided, and 7-10 days when Federal Student Aid Information Center at
dent’s priorities for NCLB reauthorization languages;
only a postal address is submitted. 1-800-4FED AID (1-800-433-3243).
zations interested in becoming Frequently Asked Questions About Education this year, as outlined in his plan Building > $199 million for the Teacher Incentive Fund 6 Frequently Asked
Questions About Education
approved providers of supple- on Results. to reward educators raising student achievement,
mental educational services Among the highlights of his budget request are: as well as those who choose to serve in the need-
News Show Looks at Higher Education > $13.9 billion for the Title I Program—up iest schools;
for disadvantaged students.

F
or quick answers to frequently additional information from internal 59 percent since 2001—to increase support for > $10.5 billion for the Special Education
Locations and dates include: asked questions about education, and external sources. In addition, some

M
aking college the commission’s recently > continued on page 2
March 1, Bridgeport, Conn.; education released final report, the U.S. Department of Education answers are available in Spanish. U.S. Department of Education Making History
March 7, Detroit; March 13, more afford- which provides recom- offers an online resource filled with up- Among the questions listed on the site are: 400 Maryland Ave. S.W.

Oklahoma City; and March 20, able and accessible for all
students in today’s global
mendations about how
college can be made more
to-date information on numerous aspects
of federal law, policy and initiatives.
> How do I find out how my child’s school
is performing and if my child is eligible for
Washington, DC 20202

The Achiever is a monthly publication L.A. County School With Disadvantaged Ethnic
Baltimore. Visit http://www.ed.gov
or call 1-800-USA-LEARN.
economy will be the focus
of the March edition of
accessible to and less
costly for students; and
The Web site http://answers.ed.gov
answers more than 100 questions related
school choice or supplemental educational
services?
for parents and community leaders from
the Office of Communications and
Outreach, U.S. Department of Education
Populations Scores Record Achievement
Education News Parents explore how the Depart- > What impact does testing have on (ED). Margaret Spellings, secretary.
to topics addressed by the Department, For her first Christmas at Ralph J. Bunche Elementary, an inner-city

‘‘
April 15–21 Can Use, the Department’s ment, parents, schools children? Comments? Contact Nicole Ashby,
including No Child Left Behind, financial school in Los Angeles County, Principal Mikara Solomon-
monthly television and higher education editor, at 202-401-0689 (fax), or at
National Library Week, an aid, special education, school choice, > I have a child with special needs. How [email protected]. Davis gave the teachers framed inspirational quotes, which
program. institutions together can
observance sponsored by the grants and research. Topics are avail- do I determine if the school is providing Address changes and subscriptions? they hung in their classrooms. One quotation stood above the
Over a year and a half put the commission’s
my child with an appropriate education
American Library Association ago, in recognition of the
emerging demands of the
recommendations into
action to better prepare
able in a fully searchable format that
includes responses with links to and services?
Contact 1-877-4ED-PUBS, or
[email protected]. Let’s give the rest, becoming a motto for the entire school: “Let’s give the
historians something to write about.”
since 1958. This year’s theme, > What kinds of programs do you have Information on ED programs, resources
Seven years later, following the staff’s innovative and per-
“Come Together @ Your Library,”
global marketplace and the vital role that
colleges play in helping our students meet such
students for college and help them to succeed
once enrolled. to help teachers pay back their loans?
and events? Contact 1-800-USA-LEARN,
or [email protected].
historians sistent efforts to create a culture of excellence, Bunche has
is part of a public awareness Each month, Education News Parents Can Use > How do I determine if a school is accred- made history. In 2006, it became the first school ever in
campaign to promote the value
demands, U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret
Spellings launched the Commission on the showcases: schools and school districts from
across the country; conversations with school
ited by the U.S. Department of Education?
As an added feature, users can submit
The Achiever contains news and information
about and from public and private organizations
for the reader’s information. Inclusion does not
something to the Compton Unified School District to win the esteemed
California Distinguished School Award. It was also the first
Future of Higher Education with a very clear
of libraries and their staffs.
Visit http://www.ala.org
purpose: to launch a healthy, national dialogue
on the vital issues of accessibility, affordability
officials, parents and education experts; and advice
and free resources for parents and educators.
an e-mail inquiry to the Department’s
Information Resource Center, which man-
constitute an endorsement by the U.S. Depart-
ment of Education of any products or services
offered or views expressed. This publication
write about. in the district to earn the state’s Title I Academic Achieve-
ment Award, an honor it has held for the past three years.
also contains hyperlinks and URLs created
or call 1-800-545-2433. and accountability. (On March 21–22, the secre- To learn about viewing options, including ages the site, and track the responses to all Bunche has merited these recognitions particularly in
and maintained by outside organizations and
tary will hold a Higher Education Summit to webcasts, visit http://www.ed.gov and click on the questions they have submitted through provided for the reader’s convenience. The light of serving mostly disadvantaged African-American
build on the recommendations of the commis- “Parents,” then “News Parents Can Use,” or call the “My Stuff” tab. Department is not responsible for the accuracy and Latino student populations, of which four in 10 are
toll-free 1-800-USA-LEARN of this information.
sion.) Guests on the March show will: discuss > continued on page 3

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