The Wichita State University College of Education's teacher preparation program earned the Distinguished Program in Teacher Education Award from the National Association of Teacher Educators for its strong partnership with Wichita Public Schools. Teacher preparation programs from universities around the country vied for the award, which recognizes programs with exceptional collaboration between local education agencies and institutions of higher education.

The WSU College of Education teacher preparation program is characterized as a Professional Development School model developed in collaboration with Wichita Public Schools. It is guided by a shared commitment to teacher preparation and P-12 grade student achievement.

“Receiving this award is validation of the partnership between Wichita State University College of Education and Wichita Public Schools and the impact the professional development school program is having on student achievement and teacher preparation,” said College of Education Dean Shirley Lefever. “Districts that hire our candidates tell us our graduates are exceptionally well prepared to teach children from diverse backgrounds and are making a positive difference in the classroom.”

Tiffinie Irving, executive director of the Wichita Public Schools’ department of instructional support, agrees that the program best prepares future educators for the demands of the classroom.

“The strong partnership has had a positive impact on preparation, effectiveness and retention of teachers,” said Irving.

A strength of the WSU teacher education program is the amount of field experience the students receive.

“One of the best things about (the teacher education program at) Wichita State is the time I get in the classroom,” said Lydia Newquist, secondary mathematics education student. “I’m teaching lessons, interacting with teachers and students – it solidifies my passion about teaching as the best way to impact the future.”