Preparation Program Approval

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 Rhode Island stand out?

Rhode Island 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. The state also incorporates licensure pass rate data into the program renewal process.

Teacher prep programs in Rhode Island have to prepare candidates for two different levels of understanding of reading instruction: For teachers who are not likely to teach early literacy (e.g., secondary teachers), they must meet an “awareness” level of familiarity, marked by completing about 10 hours of preparation. Elementary teachers, K-12 special ed teachers, and others likely to teach early literacy must meet a much higher “proficiency” bar. Rhode Island is currently reviewing plans from teacher prep programs for evidence that they meet these levels, and the state will also include this review during the regular cycles of the program approval process.