A teacher who has primary responsibility for teaching content in core academic
subjects,
whether in a self-contained or a departmentalized setting, will be considered “highly
qualified” if he or she holds an elementary, a special K-12, or a secondary
certificate valid for the subjects taught and:
a) has passed the Elementary/Middle Grades test; or
b) for each core subject
area of teaching responsibility:
1) has passed the content-area test specific to the subject taught, or
2) has completed a major or coursework equivalent to a major, or
3) holds a master’s or higher degree in a field directly related to the area of
assignment, or4) holds certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching
Standards (NBPTS) or an Illinois master certificate, or5) qualifies with 100 points under the Illinois HOUSSE, if applicable.