Are States Using Flexibility Waivers to Expand Learning Time in Schools?

Are states using Elementary and Secondary Education Act, or ESEA, flexibility waivers to expand learning time in schools? The Center for American Progress sought to answer this question by examining whether states applying for ESEA flexibility waivers strategically thought about how expanded learning time can support school turnaround efforts in priority and focus schools. Specifically, our analysis reviewed each state plan to assess to what extent the state outlined its intent to either use more time as part of its strategy to turn around its lowest-performing schools or redesign the school day to reach student achievement goals. States that provided the most detailed information were considered “standouts.”

To learn more about how increased learning time is integrated into ESEA flexibility plans, select a state on the map below. To read our analysis, see our report “Elementary and Secondary Education Act Flexibility Waivers: Are States Using Flexibility to Expand Learning Time in Schools?”