And solid, academic preparation is believed to be a key to success.
Children come to school ready to learn.
In recent years, North Dakota educators have launched a number of efforts to devise academic standards using funds from the federal Goals 2000 and other grant programs. The standards have been publicized widely in school districts. School officials say standards will open up debate over improving student achievement, serve as a guide for teachers for content and planning, and provide a framework for state teacher-preparation programs. There is no formal teacher tenure. Professional-development standards are being developed by state and local groups and should be in place by 2000.