Update on the Every Student Succeeds Act and NCSL’s “No Time to Lose” Report
This is an update related to the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and recent work by state policymakers to identify strategies that can strengthen public education across the United States.
“This is a very important step from the National Conference of State Legislators,” said Randi Weingarten. “The Every Student Succeeds Act creates an education reset, with the states now being the movers and shakers, so this is a rare opportunity for the United States to look at some of the best international practices and apply them here. By focusing on what students and educators actually need, we can work together to reclaim the promise of public education.”
What the Report Covers
Published by the National Conference of State Legislators, the bipartisan report titled “No Time to Lose” (published Aug. 9) examines international approaches to education and highlights the policies and practices that tend to be associated with high-performing education systems. Rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all solution, the report surveys a range of strategies that state leaders can consider as they design and implement ESSA-driven reforms.
The study focuses on practical, state-level options and explores how different policy choices—such as investments in teacher development, sustained support for schools serving high-need students, and alignment of curriculum and assessment—can help states move toward stronger learning outcomes. It emphasizes evidence-based practices and the value of adapting successful international ideas to local contexts.
States as Key Drivers of Improvement
ESSA intentionally shifts significant authority and responsibility to states, giving legislatures and education leaders the flexibility to design systems that reflect their communities’ needs and priorities. This shift creates an opportunity for states to innovate, pilot new approaches, and learn from both domestic and international examples.
State policymakers are urged to use this flexibility to prioritize strategies that support educators, reduce inequities, and raise educational standards. The goal is to create school systems where teachers are supported with meaningful professional development, resources are distributed equitably, and accountability measures are used to improve instruction rather than simply penalize schools.
Focus on Practical Supports for Students and Educators
Central to the conversation is the need to focus on the real needs of students and teachers. Effective policies address classroom conditions, student supports, teacher recruitment and retention, and community engagement. By concentrating on these areas, states can build stronger learning environments that foster both academic achievement and well-being.
The report’s approach encourages policymakers to consider long-term investments that yield sustainable improvements—such as targeted teacher supports, evidence-based interventions for struggling students, and systems that promote consistent improvement across schools.
Collaboration and Local Adaptation
One of the report’s central messages is that collaboration matters. Successful reform often depends on constructive partnerships among state leaders, local school districts, educators, families, and community organizations. Equally important is the willingness to adapt promising practices from other countries to fit local values, capacity, and legal frameworks.
As states interpret ESSA’s flexibility, learning from international examples while tailoring policies to local needs can help ensure that reforms are practical, equitable, and sustainable.
Conclusion
The National Conference of State Legislators’ “No Time to Lose” report invites state leaders to take advantage of ESSA’s state-driven approach to improve public education. By studying international best practices, prioritizing the needs of students and educators, and fostering collaborative policymaking, states have a renewed opportunity to strengthen public education and reclaim its promise for every child.