State Board for Educator Certification Commends University's Ed Prep Program

In addition to receiving the rating of accredited, educator preparation programs at Texas A&M International University have also been commended by the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC).

Executive Director Pamela B. Tackett has notified the University's College of Education that the SBEC is commending the program for "Achievement in Candidate Diversity."

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

"Accreditation is in itself a significant accomplishment, but we are especially honored to be commended for our efforts in diversity. This accomplishment is one that is shared by both faculty and students," Dr. Vida said.

A&M International's accreditation was 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%.

The Accountability System for Educator Preparation (ASEP) 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 prmis@tamiu.edu