The evolution from No Child Left Behind (NCLB) to the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) reflects changing social assumptions about education and assessment in the U.S. Under NCLB, the assumption was that standardized testing and accountability measures would ensure equality in education. By requiring all students to meet uniform proficiency standards, the belief was that testing would close achievement gaps, particularly among marginalized groups. However, this high-stakes approach often led to unintended consequences, such as "teaching to the test," which stifled creativity and critical thinking. It also disproportionately affected under-resourced schools, which were penalized for not meeting benchmarks, thus exacerbating inequality.

In contrast, ESSA assumes that a broader and more flexible approach to assessment is necessary to cater to the diverse needs of students. While annual testing remains a requirement, states now have the freedom to incorporate additional metrics such as graduation rates and student engagement. This shift aligns with Benjamin Bloom's Mastery Learning, which posits that all students can achieve mastery with differentiated instruction and formative feedback, thereby challenging the rigid bell curve model. This approach is more inclusive and focuses on providing individual pathways to success​.

Alternative assessments like portfolio assessment embody these newer social assumptions. Portfolios provide a holistic view of student progress, acknowledging that learning is a continuous and individual process. This method empowers students to take ownership of their learning, showcasing their work through a variety of formats, from essays to creative projects. However, while portfolios encourage deeper engagement and critical thinking, they can be more time-consuming to manage and evaluate. Clear rubrics are essential to maintain fairness and avoid subjectivity​.

In summary, each assessment type reflects a different social assumption about equality and success in education. Standardized testing under NCLB assumes that uniform benchmarks will ensure equality, while ESSA and portfolio assessments recognize the importance of flexibility, differentiation, and broader measures of success. The consequences for learners can be both positive and negative, depending on the method of assessment and the educational context.

references:
.https://www.brookings.edu/articles/the-impact-of-no-child-left-behind-on-students-teachers-and-schools-with-comments-and-discussion/

https://www.theregreview.org/2022/08/06/saturday-seminar-has-the-every-student-succeeds-act-left-children-behind/

https://www.the74million.org/article/40-years-after-a-nation-at-risk-how-has-standards-based-school-reform-succeeded-and-failed/