The College of Education is preparing for its five-year review by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, which will determine if the school keeps its accreditation.
While Interim Dean Robert L. Lemons understands the importance of the NCATE visit, scheduled for the last week in January, he says he is sure the college will be fine.
“With every visit, there is a possibility you could lose your accreditation.” Lemons said, “We have a high quality program. We expect to be reaccredited.”
Facility members at the college also feel the school is ahead of the curve.
“I think we’re doing a good job,” said Yolanda K.H. Bogan, assistant professor in the department of education leadership and human services.
She said they have been meeting regularly for the past few months in preparation for the NCATE visit.
Nevertheless, Lemons realizes the college of education has some issues to deal with in order to be completely in-line with NCATE standards.
Lemons said in the past the passing rate for students in the program had been below the 90 percent requirement set by NCATE (74 percent in 2001 and 85 percent in 2002). Because the passing rate was one of the two main requirements for maintaining the school’s accreditation -the other being the quality of documents and documentation- it was most important, Lemons said.
“The professors have realigned their curriculum to better cover more test material,” Lemons said. “We are hoping this realignment will have everybody learn the things they need to do well on the test.”
While the school is above standards, students feel there is room for improvement.
“The education department, in my view, is up to par,” said 20-year-old Warren Mays Jr., a junior elementary education student from Wilmington, Del. “But there are a few gray areas that need to be dealt with.”
Mays’ two major concerns were the department’s need for a new building and a need for improved communication within the department.Bogan said Lemons has been working to improve interdepartmental consultation and communication.
“He has been highlighting programs to increase communications to make sure other faculty are aware of what the College of Education initiatives are.”
Garrison L. Vereen II can be reached at garriasonvereen2@hotmail.com.