Professional Development for Arts Teachers

The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), signed into law on January 8, 2002, states that its primary purpose is "to close the achievement gap through accountability, research-based instruction, flexibility and options for parents, so that no child is left behind." The goals of NCLB, according to the U.S. Department of Education, include improving the academic achievement of children in high-poverty schools, using scientifically based research to provide high-quality reading instruction for grades K-3, supporting charter schools, improving math and science education, supporting the use of education technology, and providing states with grants to help fund teacher professional development and training. In a recent Arts Education Policy Review issue, Laura Chapman shared her concerns regarding some of the implications of NCLB for arts education. This article focuses specifically on professional development policy within NCLB. (Contains 31 notes.)