December 15, 2016

Purdue elementary teacher prep ranks among best

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University’s undergraduate teacher prep program in elementary education has been ranked among the nation’s best.

The National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) ranked Purdue’s program in the 99th percentile. Only 11 other universities were ranked as high as Purdue.

“It’s always good to be recognized for our work, especially work that will impact so many children both today and in the future,” said Maryann Santos, dean of the College of Education. “Hearing the news about the top ranking for our elementary education program has been exciting as it reinforces what we know is happening in the college. It is a testament to the rigor of our curriculum and the dedication of our faculty and students.”

The NCTQ looks at admission selection criteria, early reading, elementary mathematics, elementary content, student teaching and classroom management to measure teacher preparedness. Nearly 900 traditional undergraduate programs were evaluated in the 2016 survey.

The NCTQ conducts the survey, in part, to “help teacher preparation programs identify which aspects of their programs need revision to enhance their selection and preparation of the next generation of teachers.”

Santos said the NCTQ ranking is consistent with what other organizations have said about Purdue’s teacher training program. 

“In 2012 the national accrediting organization for teacher education completed an exhaustive review of Purdue programs, found no areas in need improvement and extended our accreditation through 2019,” she said. “Ours is a strong model of teacher training - and it’s always nice to know that others agree.”

About the Purdue College of Education

Purdue’s College of Education meets the challenges of educating 21st century learners by discovering what works in education. The college prepares highly qualified educators and conducts research that informs how teachers teach and students learn. With a focus on integrated P-12 STEM education and a commitment to social justice and diversity, graduates are prepared to be leaders in education, business and society. 

Writer: Howard Hewitt, 765-494-9541, hhewitt@purdue.edu 

Source: Maryann Santos, 765-494-2336, msdb@purdue.edu 

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