The reauthorized Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) places a major emphasis on teacher quality as a significant factor in improving student achievement. Under ESEA, Title II, Part A provides funds to states (SEAs) and school districts (LEAs) to conduct a variety of teacher-related reform activities. ESEA funds can be used for a variety of teacher quality activities in any subject area. Although the majority of funds are provided to LEAs, allowable SEA uses of funds include: Reforming teacher and principal certification (including recertification) and licensure to ensure that teachers have the necessary subject-matter knowledge and teaching skills in the subjects they teach; and providing support to teachers and principals through programs such as teacher mentoring, team teaching, reduced class schedules, intensive professional development, and using standards or assessments to guide beginning teachers; and carrying out programs to establish, expand, or improve alternative routes for state certification for teachers and principals (especially in mathematics and science) that will encourage highly qualified individuals with at least a baccalaureate degree; and developing and implementing effective mechanisms that help LEAs and schools recruit and retain highly qualified teachers, principals, and pupil services personnel; and reforming tenure systems, implementing teacher testing for subject-matter knowledge, and implementing teacher testing for state certification or licensure, consistent with Title II of the Higher Education Act.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.