Improving Teacher Preparation

Students Learn More from Effective Teachers

We need to give schools the resources to keep good teachers on the job, and give teachers the flexibility to teach with creativity and passion.

Recruiting, preparing, developing and supporting great teachers has a direct impact on the learning and success of America’s students. Research confirms that the most important in school factor in a student’s success is a strong teacher, and excellent teachers are especially important for our neediest students. And strong teacher preparation programs lead to better learning for students.

Yet today, far too many teachers report they are unprepared when they first enter the classroom after completing their teacher preparation program. And institutions that prepare teachers lack the feedback needed to identify where program graduates go to teach, how long they stay, and how they perform in the classroom.

Recognizing that need, educators and states are working to drive needed improvements in teacher preparation, and by extension, the quality of teaching. Through new proposed regulations, the Department aims to build on and support these efforts for greater transparency, accountability, and program improvement.