The Importance of “Classroom Ready” and “Leadership Ready” 2012 National Conference on Student Assessment Tom Luna CCSSO President Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction

In this session… The most important factor in a child’s academic success in school is the quality of the teacher in the classroom. We will discuss: What is the teacher’s role in the 21st Century Classroom? How should we prepare teachers for the classrooms of today and tomorrow?

21st Century Classroom Unlike the classroom of today, the 21st Century Classroom is not limited by walls, bell schedules, school calendars or geography. In the 21st Century Classroom, every student has access to a highly effective teacher, the necessary technology, and high academic standards that are comparable to any other country in the world.

Change is critical While the role of the teacher has changed, pre-service programs, certification and licensure, and continuing education for teachers have not kept up with the times. We must bring all these programs into the 21st Century.

Recent accomplishments College- and Career-Ready Standards Common Assessments Principles for Next-Generation Accountability Systems ESEA Waivers and Reauthorization

Next steps Every state must ensure there is a highly effective teacher in every classroom every year a student is in school. States must address the issue of teacher quality and teacher preparation programs.