1. By: Becky Chopp

2.  Teacher quality is important and matters. It is the most important school-related factor influencing student achievement.  Having high quality teachers raises student achievement  High quality teachers are

3.  Evidence suggests that teachers who earn advanced degrees have a positive impact on students achievements in math and science.  Teacher coursework in both the subjects and pedagogy contribute to positive education outcomes.  Teachers who have high literacy and verbal abilities have been shown to be associated with high student achievement.

4.  A Quality Teacher  Is someone who establishes positive realistic expectations for students  Is organized and able to maintain a well-ordered environment.  Knows the importance of reflecting on practices.  Knows how to create interesting lessons that meet the students abilities in the classroom.

5.  A Quality Teacher  Is kind and fair  Does the right thing  Does not overlook any negative actions.  Is open to different possibilities of teaching and learning experiences.

6.  High Qualified Teachers (HQT) state plans  Each state has a specific plan to promote high qualified teachers by providing specific programs.  These programs are aimed to help teachers receive a high education and to be prepared for teaching.

7.  Provided Programs for Minnesota Include:  Improving Teacher Quality State Grants The purpose is to increase academic achievement by improving teacher and principal quality  Teacher Quality Enhancement Grants Is intended to make changes in the ways teachers are recruited, prepared, licensed, and supported.  Teacher Incentive Fund This is meant to support efforts to develop and implement performance-based teacher and principal compensation systems in high-need schools.

8.  Provided Programs for Minnesota Include:  Teacher Quality and Quality of Other Service Providers for Students with Disabilities The purpose is to identify effective strategies for preparing future teachers and other service providers of students with disabilities.  Transition to Teaching Program The purpose is to recruit and retain highly qualified professionals and recent graduates for high-need schools.

9.  http://www.epi.org/publications/entry/books_tea cher_quality_execsum_intro http://www.epi.org/publications/entry/books_tea cher_quality_execsum_intro  http://www.aare.edu.au/02pap/wal02220.htm http://www.aare.edu.au/02pap/wal02220.htm  http://www.nea.org/home/20511.htm http://www.nea.org/home/20511.htm  http://ed.gov/teachers/nclbguide/improve- quality.html http://ed.gov/teachers/nclbguide/improve- quality.html  http://ed.gov/programs/teacherqual/hqtplans/ind ex.html http://ed.gov/programs/teacherqual/hqtplans/ind ex.html