U.S. Department of Education Deputy Assistant Secretary for Rural Outreach John White will deliver the keynote address Thursday, March 24, 2011 at the American Council on Rural Special Education (ACRES) Conference in Albuquerque, N.M. The conference theme is "Bringing Change that Leads to New Beginnings." During his remarks, White will discuss the Department's proposal to fix No Child Left Behind and how it could better serve rural schools.
Rural schools have unique needs and opportunities. The Administration's blueprint for reform of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, last reauthorized as the No Child Left Behind Act, considers the specific needs of rural schools and offers improvements to support them in preparing all students for success in college and careers.
ACRES was founded in 1981 by a group of individuals interested in the unique challenges of rural students and individuals needing special services. ACRES is the only national organization devoted entirely to special education issues that affect rural America.