Statement from SCORE on the report card on the effectiveness of teacher training programs

(Nashville) - The State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE) released the following statement from Jamie Woodson, president and CEO, on the 2012 Report Card on the Effectiveness of Teacher Training Programs: "The importance of today’s report is clear – Tennesseans need to know whether our state’s teacher training programs are preparing graduates for the classroom. Because effective teaching is the number one school-based factor in improving student achievement, this report is one of the most important sets of data regarding public education in our state. In looking at both traditionally and alternatively licensed graduates, there are four programs that stand out: The University of Tennessee-Knoxville, the Memphis Teacher Residency, Teach For America Memphis, and Teach for America Nashville produced teachers who had higher student achievement gains in two or more subject areas, when compared to veteran teachers. In addition, graduates from Lipscomb University had higher student achievement gains than other beginning teachers when examining composite SCOREs in grades 4-8 and high school. This is good news. But there is significant work to be done as well. There are preparation programs in Tennessee that are graduating teachers who are not performing as well as other beginning teachers. In addition, some programs are admitting students with low ACT SCOREs, a concern given that new academic standards require teaching and learning that focuses on critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It is imperative that we continue to strengthen teacher training institutions as well as recruitment efforts in our state. We are encouraged by the progress being made, but more can be done to ensure that future teachers are well-trained and prepared for the demands of the classroom." On November 1, 2012, the Tennessee Higher Education Commission released the 2012 Tennessee Report Card on the Effectiveness of Teacher Training Programs. The report can be found here: http://www.tn.gov/thec/Divisions/fttt/report_card.shtml