Federal programs and the funds that accompany these programs are designed to ensure that all students have a fair, equal, and significant opportunity to obtain a high-quality education and reach, at a minimum, proficiency on challenging state academic achievement standards and state assessments.  Federal dollars are targeted to students who are most at-risk of failing to meet these standards, especially those who are adversely affected by poverty.  The goal is to close the achievement gap between high- and low-performing students, especially the gap between disadvantaged children and their more advantaged peers.  Accomplishing this goal can be greatly enhanced by affording parents substantial and meaningful opportunities to participate in the education of their children.