Statement by Edward J. McElroy,
President, American Federation of Teachers,
on Phi Delta Kappa/Gallup Poll on Public Attitudes Toward Public Schools

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The public gets it; it’s now up to lawmakers to get NCLB  right.
 
This poll vividly shows a growing public consensus that the No Child Left Behind Act is flawed and requires major changes for it to be a useful tool for improving achievement. The poll echoes the AFT’s concerns about NCLB and recommendations for a fairer and more meaningful way to evaluate school improvement, rather than relying solely on test scores. The public, wisely, also recognizes the commonsense notion that students with limited English skills should become proficient in English before their test scores are used for NCLB purposes.

The public and the AFT agree that an overemphasis on standardized testing has resulted in unnecessary and duplicative tests that narrow the curriculum. High-quality, accountable public schools require a well-rounded curriculum based on high standards, with an effective assessment system aligned with that curriculum.

Policymakers need to listen to the public, who understand very clearly that smart changes in NCLB, along with adequate funding, will help enhance learning.

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