The Annsley Frazier Thornton School of Education has undergone an intensive self-study since January 2011 in preparation for its accreditation visit by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education in October 2012. The self-study process has been both fruitful and thought-provoking, and can best be described in terms of the types of reflection named by Linda Valli (1997), which have become the cornerstone of reflective teacher and leader preparation at Bellarmine. The unit has reflected “technically” on current research and best practices that will transform both educator preparation and P-12 student achievement. This research and accompanying knowledge bases, as well as data from candidates and programs, have caused the unit to reflect “deliberatively” on curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices. The unit has invoked “reflection-in and on-action,” making decisions for the present as well as reflecting on data-based decisions to improve for the future. “Personalistic” reflection has provided the foundation for our self-study and efforts to continuously improve as the unit has not only trusted “its own voice,” but the voices of graduates, advisory committees, P-12 school teachers and leaders, and community partners as they inform our programs and progress. Finally, the unit has “critically” reflected on its mission and vision within the social, moral, and political dimensions of schooling, with the goal of enhancing the educational experience and quality of life for all.
It is in the spirit of reflection, the process of self-study, and the upcoming accreditation visit by NCATE on October 28-30, 2012 that you are invited to submit third-party comments to the visiting accreditation team. Please note that comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of professional education programs offered, and should specify the party’s relationship to the institution (i.e., graduate, present or former faculty member, employer of graduates).
You are invited to submit written comments to: Board of Examiners, NCATE, 2010 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 500, Washington, DC 20036-1023; or by email to: callforcomments@ncate.org.