Ohio’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 Ohio stand out?
Ohio 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. The state also incorporates licensure pass rate data into the program renewal process.
Ohio recently passed legislation that provides programs with feedback, an opportunity to improve, and then a high-stakes audit coupled with public transparency. The new legislation requires the Ohio Department of Education to complete the following actions:
- Develop an audit process to review prep programs.
- Complete an initial survey of prep programs.
- Grant a one-year grace period for institutions to meet standards.
- After one year, conduct audits of each institution.
- Revoke approval for programs that are not in alignment and have not yet addressed findings of initial audit.
- Develop and publish annual summaries of literacy instruction strategies and practices for all prep programs.
- Develop a dashboard with first-time pass rates on the reading licensure test.
What are the key actions Ohio 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