The Louisiana Department of Education has recently unveiled the 2023 data for the Teacher Preparation Quality Rating System, marking a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of teacher preparation programs, according to this news release from LDOE. This system, mandated by federal regulations, serves as a crucial tool for teacher preparation providers to glean insightful information for improvement. Simultaneously, it empowers aspiring educators with the means to make informed decisions when selecting top-notch programs.
In the extensive library of the Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE), one can now explore the Quality Rating Scores from the 2020-2021 school year. Remarkably, these scores have reached their pinnacle since the system’s initiation in the 2017-2018 academic year. The data paints a positive picture, with over 95 percent of Louisiana’s teacher preparation provider programs either maintaining or advancing their ratings.
Delving into the specifics, the state’s undergraduate pathway achieved a score increase of 0.6, reaching a commendable 2.6, classified as Level 3 Effective. Similarly, the post-baccalaureate pathway witnessed a boost of 0.4, securing a 2.8, also categorized as Level 3 Effective. To grasp these nuances, it’s essential to comprehend that an undergraduate teacher preparation pathway entails the completion of a Bachelor of Arts or Science degree program. On the other hand, a post-baccalaureate pathway is tailored for individuals with an existing Bachelor’s degree seeking alternative certification.
An encouraging trend emerges as post-baccalaureate pathways consistently outperform their undergraduate counterparts. The data reveals that 78% of pathways either improved their score or maintained the same, and an even more impressive 85% increased their level or maintained it. Additionally, more than half (52%) of the pathways elevated their domain score for Meeting Workforce Needs, emphasizing a critical aspect of teacher preparation.
What sets this year apart is the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education’s (BESE) decision to utilize the results for ongoing program approval decisions. Unlike previous years, where the data served informational purposes only, 2023 signifies a pivotal shift towards a more action-oriented approach.
Understanding the significance of a teacher preparation program is vital. These are post-secondary, state-approved courses of study, indicating that enrolled teacher candidates have fulfilled all state educational and training prerequisites to be recommended for initial certification. The Teacher Preparation Quality Rating System evaluates providers on a four-point scale: Level 1 Ineffective, Level 2 Needs Improvement, Level 3 Effective, and Level 4 Highly Effective.
This rating is grounded in three domains:
- Preparation Program Experience: Evaluated through an on-site review.
- Meeting Educator Workforce Needs: Assessed by the number of candidates placed in high-need schools and program completers in high-need certification areas.
- Teacher Quality: Determined by value-added results on the state standardized assessment of program completers.
These domain-specific insights are indispensable tools for aspiring teachers in choosing programs that align with their needs. Moreover, they aid providers and the LDOE in making informed decisions regarding the necessary support for continuous improvement.
It’s worth noting that the LDOE’s commitment to transparency and guidance for educators is not a recent development. In 2021, the initial results of the Teacher Preparation Quality Rating System were shared, and the year before, the collaborative effort of the LDOE, Louisiana Board of Regents, and BESE resulted in the launch of LouisianaTeacherPrep.com. This online platform serves as a valuable resource for prospective educators, facilitating the selection of a teacher preparation program that best suits their aspirations.
In conclusion, Louisiana’s Teacher Preparation Quality Rating System data for 2023 reflects a positive trajectory, showcasing advancements in teacher preparation programs. The focus on transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement is evident, reinforcing the state’s commitment to fostering a high-quality education system.
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