NCTQ Releases 2015 State Teacher Policy Yearbook
On December 8, the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) released its 2015 State Teacher Policy Yearbook, offering the council’s annual assessment of various state policies related to teacher quality. While the report’s focus and conclusions might not be surprising, they offer what might be a preview of what to expect from NCTQ’s upcoming 2016 Teacher Prep Review.
One of the areas of focus in the yearbook, for example, is “delivering well-prepared teachers.” NCTQ outlines 13 goal topics in this area and assigns a letter grade to each state. An overview chart (see below) summarizes the results.
NCTQ State Teacher Policy Yearbook 2015, p. xi
While AACTE does not endorse the actions or views of NCTQ, we do encourage that members stay informed about the council’s efforts. We recommend reviewing your state’s “report card” from the yearbook, as it is likely to come up in conversation with policy makers or others in your state. (As a reminder, AACTE has compiled a state-by-state directory of key state policy makers. AACTE strongly recommends that state chapters and members build and/or maintain your relationships with these and other pertinent policy makers.)
In discussions with various state education agencies, we do know that NCTQ actively solicits information from them. We also know that NCTQ promotes its reports with both state legislatures and state education agencies. By knowing what the council is reporting, you are better prepared to redirect or shape the narrative in your state.
I encourage you to explore AACTE’s resource page for more information and resources about NCTQ and the forthcoming 2016 Review, including our updated Institutional Response Kit for members. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you would like to share information on your experience with NCTQ, please contact me at zvanhouten@aacte.org.
Tags: state policy, teacher quality
