Public Policy

Ever since the release of A Nation at Risk in 1983, the call for more learning time has been a prominent theme in education reform circles. NCTL is dedicated to creating a policy environment that supports states, districts, and schools in using expanded time as part of other comprehensive school reforms to ensure the best education for all students. Compared to many other advanced nations, the United States is distinct in the degree of flexibility granted to states to set their own education policies and funding methods. Even with the growth in the U.S. Department of Education’s influence and funding over the last several years, education is still chiefly a state and local responsibility.