Letter to Representative Susan Davis

July 18, 2007

Dear Representative Davis:

On behalf of the National Education Association's (NEA) 3.2 million members, we would like to express our support for the National Board-Certified Teachers in Low-Performing Schools Act (H.R. 280).

NEA strongly supports the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and considers it a valuable professional development option for experienced teachers. Certification is a rigorous, challenging process that allows teachers to analyze their work. Furthermore, it provides educators with a powerful learning experience both during the certification process and upon earning National Board Certification. Empowering more teachers to undertake the National Board Certification process will undoubtedly improve classroom practices and student achievement.

The national certification process is an important element of a comprehensive system to ensure teacher quality in low-income schools across the nation. By providing yearly stipends to teachers, your legislation will provide more teachers with an invaluable opportunity that will improve the quality of teaching and learning in high-need schools. 

We thank you for your leadership on this critical issue and look forward to continuing to work with you in support of great public schools for every child.

Sincerely,

Diane Shust, Director of Government Relations

Randall Moody, Manager of Federal Advocacy