Official: State schools meeting federal education law

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- A state education official says 98% of Oklahoma's schools are two years ahead of meeting the requirements of a federal law. <br/><br/>State schools Superintendent Sandy Garrett

Tuesday, May 4th 2004, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- A state education official says 98% of Oklahoma's schools are two years ahead of meeting the requirements of a federal law.

State schools Superintendent Sandy Garrett says teachers in those schools meet the definition of being highly qualified. The federal No Child Left Behind act requires teachers be ``highly qualified'' by the end of the 2005-2006 school year.

The teachers must first have at least a bachelor's degree and a license or certification in the subjects they teach.

Elementary and early childhood teachers must also either pass a state certification test or demonstrate competency based on a state checklist.

Middle and high school teachers must meet one of five additional requirements. The requirements include either passing a certification test; completing an undergraduate major or a graduate degree in the subject they teach; hold National Board Certification; or demonstrate competency on the state checklist.