In February, President Obama said, "Education is an investment that we need to win the future."

He's right. In order to invest in our kids' futures, we need to invest in great teachers now.

The most important school-based factor in a child's education is teacher quality, and America's most qualified teachers are grossly underpaid. StudentsFirst is working to elevate the teaching profession by making sure teachers are rewarded for their excellence. Those who show they can move kids along academically should be compensated accordingly.

Our great teachers are the ones who help shape the lives of our children, the role models who give them the tools to succeed. Teachers help pave the way for children to become scientists, engineers, world leaders. Their impact on a child's life cannot be underestimated.

As President Obama says, an investment in education is an investment in our future. Sign the pledge in support of identifying America's effective teachers and paying them what they deserve.