Standardized testing creates undue stress on students, teachers, and administrators without demonstrably improving educational outcomes. We believe that local communities and educators possess the expertise to best serve their students. Federal mandates, such as No Child Left Behind and the Every Student Succeeds Act, disrespect this expertise and should be repealed.

Educational authority should be returned to states and local boards, respecting the professional judgment of teachers. Local districts should develop their own evaluation and accountability systems, tailored to their unique needs. Teachers should also have the right to collectively bargain for contracts, with states setting the specific standards.

The Department of Education will play a crucial role in ensuring equitable resource distribution. It will:

 * Conduct comprehensive assessments of socioeconomic disparities across states and districts.

 * Evaluate the effectiveness of locally developed educational plans, ensuring they align with best practices.

 * Allocate federal resources based on socioeconomic need and plan quality, prioritizing high-need areas.

 * Provide guidance and support to states and districts in implementing effective strategies.

 * Monitor and report on progress toward educational equity and student outcomes.

This approach balances local control with essential federal oversight, guaranteeing all students, regardless of background, have access to a quality education.