Prior to searching for employment, familiarize yourself with the following questions.

No Child Left Behind (NCLB)

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q:  What is "No Child Left Behind"?
A:  The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 by making significant changes in the major Federal programs that support schools' efforts to educate the Nation's students.
 
Q:  What impact does No Child Left Behind have in relation to teachers?
A:  A primary purpose of the act is to increase the academic achievement of all students by helping schools and school districts improve teacher and principal quality and ensure that all teachers are highly qualified.

Q:  What is the definition of a highly qualified teacher?
A:  A highly qualified teacher is defined as one who possesses a bachelor's degree or higher.  The teacher must also have full state certification, or have passed the State teacher licensing examination in the subject(s) he/she is teaching.

Q:  Is there any other means of being considered highly qualified?
A:  A secondary teacher with a bachelor's degree and an academic major in the subject he/she is teaching may be considered highly qualified.  Course work equivalent to a major (i.e., 24 semester hours with 12 semester hours of upper division) will also meet the qualification.

Q:  As an A&M-Texarkana ACP intern, will I be considered highly qualified?
A:  Yes, but you must meet certain stipulations.  Elementary interns (Generalist EC-6) must take and pass the Generalist EC-6 TExES examination to be considered highly qualified.  Middle school and high school interns seeking certification in a specific teaching field must pass the TExES content exam corresponding to their teaching field or have 24 semester hours with 12 semester hours of upper division.  Special Education certification seekers must pass the content/level for which they will teach and the special education test.

Q:  If I am not highly qualified, may I be admitted to the ACP? 
A:  No, you must meet highly qualified status prior to admittance.
 
Q:  If I plan to certify Generalist EC-6, what exam must I take and pass?
A:  Elementary (Generalist EC-6) interns must take and pass the Generalist EC-6.   This exam requires extensive preparation.  You must demonstrate mastery of a body of knowledge equivalent to the curriculum you will teach.  The Generalist EC-6 exam covers the subjects of English language arts, reading, math, science, social studies, fine arts, health and physical education.  Click here for information on TExES study materials.

Q:  Will school districts recognize A&M-Texarkana ACP interns as highly qualified teachers?
A:  Yes.  Documentation was submitted to the State Board for Educator Certification describing how A&M-Texarkana ACP complies with the requirements of No Child Left Behind.  

Q:  The school is asking for a “Statement of Eligibility.”  What is it and how do I get it?
A:  A “Statement of Eligibility” is a document that will be provided to you from the ACP Office once you have met highly qualified status.  This document should accompany applications for employment submitted to any school district.  A “Statement of Eligibility” ensures that you are eligible for employment and can be recommended for a Probationary Certificate