What significant change was made by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965?

The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) of 1965 marked a crucial shift in the federal government's role in education, particularly in addressing educational inequality. The act aimed to improve educational opportunities for children from low-income families by providing federal funding specifically directed toward schools serving populations in poverty. This funding was allocated for various purposes, including the development of programs, resources, and support services aimed at enhancing the quality of education for disadvantaged students.

The emphasis on funding for education in low-income areas was a landmark development in U.S. education policy, recognizing that economic disadvantage often correlates with educational challenges. This initiative aimed to close the achievement gap and ensure that all children, regardless of their socioeconomic status, had access to quality education and the resources they needed to succeed. The commitment to supporting educational equity through targeted funding is what makes this aspect of the ESEA a significant change in the landscape of American education.