Arkansas’s Performance
Weak
Why does this matter?
Without detailed reviews, states cannot guarantee programs are adequately preparing teachers to teach reading. Clear evidence from teacher surveys1 and NCTQ’s Teacher Prep Review demonstrates that prep programs are not teaching aspiring elementary teachers about scientifically based reading instruction. Since programs have to be approved by states in order to operate, states should leverage their full authority to verify that policies are carried out in practice.
Why does Arkansas stand out?
The Science of Reading Audit (SoR Audit) in Arkansas is a key initiative aimed at enhancing the quality of literacy education across the state. The audits, which began in the spring semester of 2024, will occur every three years. Their primary goal is to ensure that all new teachers are well-prepared to teach reading effectively.
The audit reviews coursework provided by Educator Preparation Programs to ensure it aligns with the science of reading. This includes evaluating the content and methods used to teach reading to future educators. A rigorous framework was developed to accomplish this task, including on-site observations of science of reading coursework instruction, candidate implementation, and focus groups.
The audit is part of a continuous improvement process, ensuring that educator preparation programs consistently meet high standards and adapt to new research and best practices in literacy education. The Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Educator Effectiveness and Licensure Unit administers the SoR Audit and reflects on its role in educator preparation in the science of reading. To provide support to educator preparation programs, the Division has aligned the framework to targeted actions aimed at improving specific areas of science of reading instruction. These targeted actions are supported through extra training and learning opportunities for educator preparation program faculty provided by the DESE.
What are the key actions Arkansas should take?
See what these states are doing in this policy area:
Key Resources
State of the States 2024: Elementary Reading
Explore five policy actions states can take to strengthen implementation of the science of reading.
State Reading Policy Action Guide
Discover how states can implement and sustain strong reading instruction.
References
- EdWeek Research Center. (2020). Early reading instruction: Results of a national survey of K-2 and elementary special education teachers and postsecondary instructors. Washington, DC: Education Week. https://www.edweek.org/research-center/research-center-reports/early-reading-instruction-results-of-a-national-survey