Murkowski wants to amend No Child Left Behind Act

ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Sen. Lisa Murkowski introduced legislation Thursday aimed at amending the No Child Left Behind Act.

 

The senator says she is trying to address the challenges Alaska faces in complying with the law. The bill would provide flexibility for teachers who teach multiple subjects in middle and high school.

 

Under No Child Left Behind, teachers are required to be certified and have a major or minor in each of the subject.

 

Murkowski says that is nearly impossible for some rural schools.

 

"We've listened to educators, administrators, and parents and taken their suggestions," Murkowski said. "That would work for children all across the country."

 

Murkowski introduced a similar bill last year, but it failed to pass. The senator says she intends to incorporate the changes into the overall reauthorization of the No Child Left Behind Act this year.