Reply #4: Why is it falling to the state to audit these degrees?

[NewHampshireDem]

Whenever I move up, I have to submit my transcripts to my (local) school district office. No transcript, no move. You'd think someone would notice that all of a suddent Ms. Jones or Mr. Smith now has a brand new degree, but never seemed to take any courses.

But, I agree with the point that we've put too much pressure and too little financial resources behind demanding that all teachers be "highly qualified." I believe the HQT requirement is sound, but if it means a teacher has to go back to school--and here in NH's courses at the state university cost me $1,500 a pop--we have to make more money available to send those teachers back to school. If you're older and are maybe 7-8 years away from retirement, earning your advanced degree is a zero-sum game because you'll never make up all the money you spent on courses--nevermind the time it takes to actually do the work!