Federal Education Policy: The Elementary and Secondary Education Act and Higher Education

This report examines the federal role in K-12 and higher education, focusing on the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), the Higher Education Act (HEA), and federal student financial aid programs. It describes Title I funding formulas, accountability requirements, and school improvement provisions.

The report discusses federal student loan programs, including Direct Loans, PLUS Loans, and income-driven repayment plans. It analyzes proposals for student loan forgiveness, free community college programs, and changes to Pell Grant eligibility. Institutional accreditation and accountability measures are also reviewed.

Key policy considerations include debates over school choice and charter school funding, the role of standardized testing in accountability systems, teacher quality initiatives, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational outcomes and federal education spending.