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Understanding the Highly Qualified Teacher Definition and Its Importance
Definition & Meaning
A highly qualified teacher is defined as an educator who meets specific certification and competency standards set by the state in which they teach. This designation ensures that teachers possess the necessary qualifications to effectively educate students in public elementary and secondary schools. Generally, a highly qualified teacher holds at least a bachelor's degree, has obtained full state certification, and has demonstrated proficiency in the subjects they teach.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The term "highly qualified teacher" is primarily used in the context of education law and policy. It is relevant in discussions about teacher certification, educational standards, and accountability in public schools. This term is significant in federal and state education regulations, particularly under the No Child Left Behind Act and related legislation. Understanding this term is crucial for educators, school administrators, and policymakers, as it affects hiring practices, teacher evaluations, and funding for educational programs.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A new elementary school teacher in California holds a bachelor's degree in education, passed the state-required teaching exam, and has received full state certification. Therefore, they are considered a highly qualified teacher.
Example 2: A high school math teacher in Texas has a degree in mathematics and has passed the state certification test for secondary education. This teacher meets the criteria to be classified as highly qualified. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
Key legislation relevant to highly qualified teachers includes:
No Child Left Behind Act (2001) - established standards for teacher qualifications.
Every Student Succeeds Act (2015) - continues the emphasis on teacher qualifications and accountability.
State-by-state differences
State
Certification Requirements
California
Requires a bachelor's degree and passage of the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST).
Texas
Requires a bachelor's degree, completion of an educator preparation program, and passing state exams.
New York
Requires a bachelor's degree, completion of a teacher preparation program, and passing scores on certification exams.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Certified Teacher
A teacher who has met state certification requirements but may not meet all criteria of being highly qualified.
Emergency Certified Teacher
A teacher who is allowed to teach without full certification due to a shortage of qualified teachers.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you are a teacher or aspiring educator, ensure you meet your state's certification requirements to be classified as highly qualified. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates related to teacher certification and employment agreements. If you find the process complex or have specific questions, consider consulting a legal professional for guidance.
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