shows that teachers can change the trajectory of their students' lives. Students of capable elementary and middle school teachers not only have higher standardized test scores, they are more likely to attend college, have a lower incidence of high school pregnancy, and earn more as adults.

As the global economy quickly changes, countries that can stay ahead in areas such as engineering, chemistry, and technology will be the most competitive. Yet, the hard sciences are among the most challenging subjects for even the best instructors to teach. Worse, Education Trust studies have shown that troubling numbers of math and science teachers never studied the subjects they are teaching.

An increased emphasis on good teachers who can provide high quality math and science education should be a top priority for America's educational community and our political leaders. This is not just for the sake of raising standardized test scores, but because we understand the direct correlation between mastering essential subject matter and the success of our students and the country.