The ÐÔ°®ÎåÉ«Ìì, Reno’s College of Education & Human Development has received full seven-year accreditation from the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) for its initial teacher preparation programs. This distinction makes the University the only AAQEP-accredited institution in Nevada, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in educator preparation.
"In short, being the first and only nationally and fully accredited teacher education program in Nevada speaks to the commitment our college has to provide quality educators to our communities," Donald Easton-Brooks, Ph.D., dean of the College of Education & Human Development, said. "This rigorous process shows our community that we are committed to producing quality teachers to reduce achievement gaps, provide our young learners an opportunity for upward mobility and provide our schools educators who are ready to engage all students."
The AAQEP Accreditation Commission granted accreditation following a rigorous evaluation process, including a self-study and peer review. The commission recognized the College’s ongoing commitment to program quality, data-driven improvements and dedication to meeting licensure program needs. The College was also commended for its collaborative approach, engaging with stakeholders and partners to enhance Nevada’s P-20 education system.
Lindsay Diamond, Ph.D., associate dean of research and graduate programs, who led the accreditation process, said, “The accreditation represents a multi-year collaborative effort between faculty, staff, school district personnel and other stakeholders. Through this process, we were able to confirm what we do well to prepare educators and how we can continue to grow.”
AAQEP accreditation ensures the highest standards in educator preparation through a nongovernmental, evidence-based process focused on both accountability and continuous improvement. The model supports institutional innovation while considering local educational needs.
“We are so thrilled to have the acknowledgment of the high-quality teacher preparation we are providing for educators in Nevada,” Shanon Taylor, Ed.D., interim chair of the Department of Educator Preparation, said. “This accreditation can give school leaders confidence that teachers graduating from our programs will add value to their schools.”
The AAQEP model is also designed to honor local context and foster innovation and collaboration among institutions. AAQEP currently has members in 34 states and territories, and over 200 educator preparation providers are participating in the accreditation system.
“Congratulations to the ÐÔ°®ÎåÉ«Ìì, Reno and to all of the faculty, staff and stakeholders who have achieved their goal of national accreditation by AAQEP,” said AAQEP President and CEO Mark LaCelle-Peterson. “The program consistently supports its teacher candidates and school partners with a steady focus on mission and values.”
