By Times Staff
Published June 15, 2006
The No Child Left Behind Act sets strict performance targets for schools and specific groups of students, including minorities, low-income students, students with limited English skills and students with disabilities.
If even one group fails, the entire school fails.
Schools with a higher percentage of poor children - called Title I schools - face sanctions if they don't meet the federal targets. New sanctions kick in every year.
If schools fail two years in a row, students get the option of transferring to another public school in the district.
After three years, schools must provide tutors.
After four years, districts must step in and replace staff or change curriculum.
After five years, the school is identified for restructuring, which could include a state takeover or conversion to a charter school.