Conrad Secures Promise to Revisit No Child Left Behind Issue
Conrad Secures Promise to Revisit No Child Left Behind Issue
Department of Education Pledges to Reconsider North Dakota Teachers' Plan
North Dakota's congressional delegation received a promise today from officials at the Department of Education that they will reexamine requirements North Dakota teachers face in meeting "No Child Left Behind" standards. The pledge came in a meeting today with Assistant Secretary of Education Ray Simon.
"Today we made our case, and will keep making the case that ensures the future stability of North Dakota's teachers," the delegation said in a joint statement. "We shared our concerns with Assistant Secretary Simon, and they have agreed to come back to us in a week and lay out a plan to resolve this issue once and for all. They will be back with answers."
Currently, under "No Child Left Behind," elementary school teachers must be "highly qualified" and demonstrate competency in several subjects, including English, math, science, social studies and foreign languages. The Education Department previously rejected a North Dakota plan that officials say would have met federal standards by requiring teachers to hold degrees with majors in the field of instruction and a state license.
At stake are the futures of more than 3,800 teachers in North Dakota who were affected by the Education Department's decision. Education officials in North Dakota fear that the federal agency's ruling would prompt a wave of retirements by teachers who would rather leave the classroom then endure onerous training in subjects many have been teaching for years. Approximately 40 percent of elementary teachers in North Dakota are currently eligible to retire.
"Teachers are vital in the development of our youth and the future of this country. North Dakota schools are fortunate to have dedicated, dynamic educators who motivate students to reach their fullest potential," the delegation said. "We are here today fighting to ensure that these talented teachers are able to stay where they are needed most in the classroom."
http://conrad.senate.gov/~conrad/releases/05/01/2005126B01.html