Recommendations State policymakers should maintain historical certification standards. We believe that hiring better-qualified and educated teachers is crucial to raising teacher standards and thus the level of education in the country. While alternative routes to teacher certification may be desirable, this is only true when professional standards remain unadulterated and free from assault by policymakers. States should ensure an increase in teacher salaries. Upgrading the quality of teaching requires upgrading the quality of teachers' jobs.
Economic reality demands salary increases as an effective equalizer of supply and demand imbalances.
This is the case for human capital just as it is for childrens' toys. In places teacher demand is on the rise, increased salaries can help relieve shortages. Policymakers should view increased salaries as a package that provides monetary returns as well as societal respect for the profession, job security and satisfaction, and personal and professional development. A competitive compensation package for teachers will attract more qualified individuals to the profession. States should relax citizenship requirements.