Key Terms:

Highly Qualified- According to Title IX, Part A, Section 9101, of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, a teacher must meet the following requirement to be labeled highly qualified.

1. Have full state certification or has passed the state’s licensure exam and holds a license to teach in the state.
2. Hold a bachelor’s degree (the degree must be content specific for middle and high school teachers).
3. Pass the state proficiency test in each content area (a general test is used for elementary teachers).

If the teacher is not new to the profession, then he or she does not need to pass the state proficiency test but can earn the highly qualified label by demonstrating competency through another form of state determined evaluation. 

Pedagogy-the art or science of teaching

Alternative vs. Traditional Certification Programs-The majority of teachers enter the profession through two-year traditional certification programs that are run by colleges and universities.  These programs generally include content and pedagological instruction.  Alternative programs vary widely, but most do not include the sustained support and guidance of traditional programs.

Emergency Certification-States that are in great need of teachers can offer temporary waivers for uncertified teachers to teach in public schools.  Teachers on emergency waivers usually have to work towards full certification while teaching.