Colorado’s Performance
Strong
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 Colorado stand out?
Colorado maintains full authority over its teacher preparation program approval process. As part of the program renewal process, the state reviews syllabi for reading courses to ensure integration of all reading standards and the science of reading. Additionally, reading specialists and experts are included in the review of reading instruction.
Colorado, which revamped its program review process in 2016 with the introduction of new literacy standards, discovered that under its approval structure, program review had only two possible end points: approval or probation. Putting a program on probation prevents that program from enrolling new candidates, making it an unpalatable option. Instead, the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) worked with the state board of education to create a new category, conditional reauthorization, which they codified in policy. Conditionally approved programs received a list of specific changes to make within one year. If they did so, they could be recommended for full approval.
Between 2018 and 2023, the CDE conducted 23 reauthorization site visits with programs that have scientifically based reading standards in one or more endorsement areas (elementary, early childhood, special education). Seven programs were subsequently put on conditional reauthorization to address a need for deeper content for and understanding of SBRI for their candidates. Evidence from NCTQ’s 2023 Teacher Prep Review: Reading Foundations report found that after only a few years, Colorado programs are now among the best in the country for teaching SBRI, with almost no evidence of contrary practices.
What are the key actions Colorado 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