Kentucky Applies For No Child Left Behind Waiver

{Frankfort, Kentucky}...The Kentucky Department of Education has submitted its application asking to be relieved of some requirements under the federal No Child Left Behind Act. States were allowed to request waivers of 10 provisions of the law, which was aimed at closing achievement gaps in public schools but has been criticized for promoting an atmosphere of "teaching to the test." In September, President Barack Obama said states could apply for relief if they could prove they were taking steps to close gaps, promote accountability and ensure students graduate ready for college or the work force. Terry Holliday, Kentucky's commissioner of education, says he believes our public school accountability model exceeds the basic requirements, while retaining an intense focus on the ultimate goal of college and career readiness for all students.