<P> The act also requires schools to let military recruiters have students' contact information and other access to the student, if the school provides that information to universities or employers, unless the students opt out of giving military recruiters access . This portion of the law has drawn lots of criticism and has even led to political resistance . For instance, in 2003 in Santa Cruz, California, student - led efforts forced school districts to create an "opt - in" policy that required students affirm they wanted the military to have their information . This successful student organizing effort was copied in various other cities throughout the United States . </P> <P> Supporters of the NCLB claim one of the strong positive points of the bill is the increased accountability that is required of schools and teachers . According to the legislation, schools must pass yearly tests that judge student improvement over the fiscal year . These yearly standardized tests are the main means of determining whether schools live up to required standards . If required improvements are not made, the schools face decreased funding and other punishments that contribute to the increased accountability . According to supporters, these goals help teachers and schools realize the significance and importance of the educational system and how it affects the nation . Opponents of this law say that the punishments only hurt the schools and do not contribute to the improvement of student education . </P> <P> In addition to and in support of the above points, proponents claim that No Child Left Behind: </P> <Ul> <Li> Links state academic content standards with student outcomes </Li> <Li> Measures student performance: a student's progress in reading and math must be measured annually in grades 3 through 8 and at least once during high school via standardized tests </Li> <Li> Provides information for parents by requiring states and school districts to give parents detailed report cards on schools and districts explaining the school's AYP performance; schools must inform parents when their child is taught by a teacher or para-professional who does not meet "highly qualified" requirements </Li> <Li> Establishes the foundation for schools and school districts to significantly enhance parental involvement and improved administration through the use of the assessment data to drive decisions on instruction, curriculum and business practices </Li> </Ul>

The no child left behind act has been criticized for its emphasis on