February 2, 2012
LANSING ? The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) has opened for public review and comment its proposed federal waiver application of 10 requirements established by the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001.

These waivers will allow needed flexibility for public schools in Michigan regarding

• the 2013-2014 timeline for determining Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP);
  
• implementation of school and district improvement requirements;
  
• rural districts;
  
• school-wide programs;
  
• support for school improvement;
  
• Reward Schools;
  
• Highly Qualified Teacher (HQT) improvement plans;
  
• the transfer of certain federal funds; and
  
• use of School Improvement Grant (SIG) funds to support priority schools.
  

In order to apply for and receive the waivers, the MDE has developed a comprehensive request based on four principles: Career- and College-Ready Expectations for All Students; State-Developed Differentiated Recognition, Accountability, and Support; Supporting Effective Instruction and Leadership; and Reducing Duplication and Unnecessary Burden.

Michigan's request for federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) flexibility is available now for review at: http://www.michigan.gov/mde/0,4615,7-140--270543--,00.html

Public comment will be open until February 9, 2012 and should be submitted to: ESEAFlexibility@michigan.gov