"The school where I teach is comprised predominately of low-income students of color. The NCLB bill is requiring teachers to focus their attention on teaching to the test rather than providing these students with a well-rounded education that encompasses more than reading, writing, math, and science.

"What about foreign languages so students can compete in the international world? What about the arts? Some students like and excel in the arts. What about geography? If it's not going to be on the test, teachers won't waste their time teaching geography. Don't our students deserve to learn about where they are in the world?

"It's time that teachers were celebrated for our work. Most teachers agree with the concept of leaving no child behind, but we are working toward that goal on a daily basis and don't deserve policymakers, who are not in the classroom, mandating what goes on in our classrooms."

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