Bill replaces "No Child Left Behind" giving authority back to local schools

Last week, when the House passed reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Schools Act (ESEA), the Wall Street Journal wrote that it was the "largest devolution of federal control" in 25 years.

The bill which the Senate should pass tomorrow replaces No Child Left Behind, gives authority back to local school districts, and prevents the White House from forcing states to adopt Common Core standards. It is expected to be signed into law by the President as early as this week.

Federal overreach and excessive testing requirements have made it impossible for teachers to fulfill their single most important responsibility - preparing children to lead productive and fulfilling lives. This bill will return decision making capabilities to administrators, school districts and local governments, while limiting the influence of bureaucrats in Washington.

The House and Senate passed separate versions of ESEA reauthorization earlier this year. This bill was a bipartisan compromise developed by both chambers, and is a critical final step before reauthorization can become law.

Replacing No Child Left Behind represents a shift back to the way things should be run. I am proud that Congress passed a bipartisan bill that will let local governments make their own decisions on education.