Arkansas has become a national leader in early-childhood education. Last year, the National Institute for Early Education Research ranked the Arkansas Better Chance program among the top 10 in the nation in the quality and accessibility of both its three- and four-year-old pre-kindergarten programs, as well as fifth in the nation for resources dedicated to these programs. In its annual education report card evaluating education policy and student performance, Education Week also ranked Arkansas in the top 10 nationally. Among other things, its criteria includes students' K-12 achievement; statewide academic standards, assessments, and accountability; and the teaching profession in each state.

At the high-school level, we are proud of the tremendous progress our students have demonstrated through participation in the Arkansas Advanced Initiative in Math and Science, funded by the National Math and Science Initiative to improve college preparation. Since the program's inception in Arkansas just three years ago, approximately 8,000 students in 31 schools have enrolled in more Advanced Placement courses and are earning scores on AP exams far above the national average.

This past year, the Arkansas Department of Higher Education introduced the Universal Scholarship Application, an online resource through which students can easily determine which of the state's 20 financial-aid programs they are eligible for, and the amount of assistance they might receive. The 2010-2011 school year also marks the first time Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarships have been available to college students, funded by the state Scholarship Lottery. Approximately 30,000 students are finding their educations more affordable this school year.

In order to improve our educational standards and successes, we have to meet teachers where they are - in their classrooms and among their students. This is how we compare programs, learn from each other, and ultimately provide a better education for Arkansas students. Secretary Duncan is gathering just that kind of direct feedback at the national level. We will continue our own similar efforts by maintaining an open line of communication with our teachers - the people we rely on to know the needs of our students the best.