Secondary education in the United States
In 1965 the far-reaching Elementary and Secondary Education Act ('ESEA'), passed as a part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's "War on Poverty", provided funds for primary and secondary education ('Title I funding') while explicitly forbidding the establishment of a national curriculum. It emphasized equal access to education and established high standards and accountability. The bill also aimed to shorten the achievement gaps between students by providing every child with fair and equal opportunities to achieve an exceptional education.
Compulsory public education in the United States
US Department of Education Rod Paige facilitated the passage of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) of 2001, the most meaningful amendments in federal education legislation since the Elementary and Secondary Act of 1965. This Statute enabled children in sub-performing schools to move to public institutions or receive coaching at government expense. It was the first time that parents can help their stressed children in gaining access to opportunities. Secretary Paige was responsible for assisting the District of Columbia in becoming home of the very first voucher program financed by the federal government.