This letter to the editor by Deputy Secretary's Regional Representative Eric Earling appeared in the Twin Falls Times News (ID) on April 28, 2006.

An April 13 story in The Times-News regarding highly qualified teachers contained an odd statement by State Superintendent Marilyn Howard. She was confused about the definition of a "highly qualified teacher" under the No Child Left Behind Act.

As the article itself noted, NCLB sets the definition as a teacher having a four-year degree, full state certification and proven competency in the field in which they teach. That's pretty straightforward.

Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Education has provided additional flexibility and alternative options for veteran teachers, rural schoolteachers and multi-subject teachers. The U.S. Department has worked closely with states, including Idaho, to tackle the unique circumstances and challenges each state faces in implementing these options and working to ensure a highly qualified teacher in every classroom, particularly in core academic subjects.

Idaho's own ISAT scores have confirmed that the law is working and that students can achieve at higher standards when adults believe in them. As State Board of Education President Rod Lewis said last year, "More Idaho students are performing on grade level than ever before, and some achievement gaps are actually narrowing."

That partnership between states and the federal government in NCLB is simple, yet profound: the federal government provides more funding and flexibility, and states commit to improving their own education systems so that all students receive the quality education they deserve.

There's nothing confusing about that.

Eric Earling
Seattle, Wash.
Eric Earling is the deputy secretary's regional representative for the U.S. Department of Education for Region 10, which includes Idaho.