SBEC Accredits University's Ed Prep Programs

Educator preparation programs at Texas A&M International University have been accredited by the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC).

A&M International's accreditation is based on student scores on ExCET exams over two academic years, 1997-99. According to SBEC, the cumulative pass rate for students in educator preparation programs at the University was 83.37%.

University president Dr. Charles Jennett said the accreditation stands as a testament to hard work by faculty and students.

"This is a clear indication of faculty commitment to student success and to student commitment to doing their best. This speaks highly of these students' readiness to assume teaching positions and helps to assure they will provide dynamic and qualified instruction," Dr. Jennett said.

Dr. Rosa Maria Vida, dean of the College of Education, concurred and said she is glad to see the programs' excellence and the students' efforts being recognized.

"This is a significant accomplishment, and one that both faculty and students share in. Both are committed to these programs and that commitment was clearly seen by the SBEC," Dr. Vida said.

The accountability system for educators was authorized in 1995 when the Legislature passed Senate Bill 1, a rewrite of the Texas Education Code and took full affect Sept. 1, 1999.

For additional information on accredited teacher education programs at Texas A&M International University, please contact the College of Education at 956.326.2420.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu