Criteria for teachers also got a D grade in Utah based on a lack of requirements that teachers pass certain basic skill levels and written subject knowledge tests — something Peterson said is common for many Western states.

"Basically we don't test teachers enough in subject knowledge," he said, noting there has never really been any discussion to move that direction, either.

Utah also received a C for its overall reading and math proficiency for fourth- and eighth-graders, as well as a C for overall academic rigor. Peterson said that can be attributed to researchers finding Utah's math standards not up to par. However, currently a state committee has been meeting to take a close look at what needs to be changed regarding math requirements in Utah.

"The conclusion of this report card is unambiguous; the states need to do a far better job of monitoring and delivering quality schooling," the report concludes.

For the full report visit www.uschamber.com/icw/reportcard/default.

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E-mail: terickson@desnews.com