LM March 2017

Achieving competency includes “collaborating as never before,” innovation and “helping every child reach their full potential.” One example he gave of a different approach is variable credit. “If a student fails to meet the standard in one section of a course, why should he have to retake the entire course? Why not just focus on that area where he struggled?” he asked. “Remediation is not a powerful tool.” Smith’s approach is not built only on a feel-good philosophy. Accountability is also a big part of the equation. He thinks the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) holds promise, especially in the autonomy states have been given.

“ESSA presents an opportunity for transformation from what we have been saying was wrong with No Child Left Behind. ESSA is not a binary choice of good and bad. It recognizes growth,” said Smith, adding that the Illinois state plan has been through three iterations. “There is the far left and the far right, and we sit in a unique position to consider, reflect, and discuss ideas from across the spectrum.” The stakes for education are especially high in the current environment in Illinois, Smith said. “We have a big role to play in transforming the landscape of our state.” 2017

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