After a long night of debate on Tuesday, the House of Representatives passed a modified version of the Governor's Education Reform Bill early Wednesday morning.

Most Iowans recognize that our current method of investing in education is producing the same results year after year, while other states continue to pass us by in academic excellence. Just 20 years ago, Iowa students ranked first in the country. Last year our ranking had slipped to the middle of the pack.

There are various components of this bill that address issues regarding student academic achievement, professional development for teachers, local control for parents and school districts, and alternative forms of education, such as private and home instruction.