The Biden-Harris Administration's Improving Student Achievement Agenda for 2024 marks a significant step in addressing the academic challenges students across the United States face. This comprehensive plan, grounded in evidence-based strategies, aims to accelerate academic performance for every child in school, ensuring they are equipped to compete in the 21st century. The agenda focuses on several key strategies. Among these are increasing student attendance, providing high-impact tutoring, and enhancing summer learning and extended or after-school learning time.
One of the most notable aspects of this agenda is its emphasis on high-impact tutoring. Research has consistently shown that well-designed and well-implemented tutoring programs like BookNook can significantly accelerate student learning. To achieve positive results, the tutoring programs should include at least three 30-minute weekly sessions, be conducted 1-to-1 or in small groups, occur during the school day to support consistent participation, use well-trained tutors, and be aligned with an evidence-based, structured curriculum.
School systems nationwide, such as those in Chicago, Baltimore, and Greensboro, have leveraged American Rescue Plan funding to scale strategies with promising evidence of positive impact. When implemented effectively, high-impact tutoring not only supports student learning but also reduces burdens on teachers and complements other school-based activities.
Increased Funding for Public Schools: The administration is committed to significantly boosting federal funding for K-12 education, particularly for under-resourced schools.
Expanding Access to Early Childhood Education: A major focus is on universal Pre-K, ensuring that all children, regardless of their family's income, have access to quality early education.
Enhancing Teacher Support and Pay: Recognizing the critical role of educators, the agenda includes measures to increase teacher salaries and provide more support and professional development opportunities.
Strengthening STEM Education: Special emphasis is placed on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education, aiming to prepare students for the demands of the 21st-century workforce.
Promoting College Affordability and Access: Efforts to make higher education more accessible and affordable are a cornerstone of the agenda, including expanded Pell Grants and support for community colleges.
Support for Special Education: The agenda seeks to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), providing necessary resources for students with disabilities.
Emphasis on Mental Health and Well-being: Recognizing the mental health challenges faced by students, the administration plans to increase funding for counseling and mental health services in schools.
Technology and Infrastructure Upgrade: Investment in modernizing school infrastructure, with a focus on technology upgrades to facilitate digital learning and connectivity.
Supportive and Diverse Curriculum: The agenda promotes the development and implementation of a more supportive curriculum that reflects the diverse history and experiences of all Americans.
Enhanced Accountability Measures: New standards and accountability measures are to be implemented to ensure that schools are providing quality education and meeting the needs of all students.
This agenda reflects the administration's commitment to addressing educational inequalities and preparing students for a rapidly changing world.
The implications of the Biden-Harris Administration's agenda regarding high-impact tutoring are far-reaching. By focusing on proven strategies, the Administration addresses the academic setbacks caused by the pandemic and school closures. This approach is not just about remediation; it's about accelerating learning and closing the achievement gap that has widened in recent years.
The emphasis on high-impact tutoring also highlights the importance of targeted, intensive support for students, particularly those who need to catch up. This approach recognizes that more than traditional classroom instruction may be required to meet the diverse needs of all students. High-impact tutoring can help students catch up and excel by providing additional, focused support.
Furthermore, the agenda's focus on using well-trained tutors and evidence-based curricula underscores the importance of quality in educational interventions. It's not just about providing additional support; it's about ensuring that this support is practical and grounded in research.
The goal of enhancing educational outcomes for all students is universal and shared by educators, parents, and policymakers across the spectrum. The strategies outlined in the agenda, such as high-impact tutoring, are based on evidence and research rather than political ideology.
The Biden-Harris Administration's Improving Student Achievement Agenda for 2024 represents a comprehensive and research-driven approach to addressing some of our nation's most pressing educational challenges. By focusing on proven strategies like high-impact tutoring, the Administration is taking a significant step towards ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in the 21st century.