Who We Are

MISSION STATEMENT

To promote the learning of all PK-12 students through high-quality, evidence-based preparation and continuing education for all school personnel.

The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education is a national alliance of educator preparation programs dedicated to the highest quality professional development of teachers and school leaders in order to enhance PK-12 student learning. The 800 institutions holding AACTE membership represent public and private colleges and universities in every state, the District of Columbia, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Guam. AACTE’s reach and influence fuel its mission of serving learners by providing all school personnel with superior training and continuing education. AACTE employs three key strategies to achieve its goals:

Advocacy:

AACTE maintains a constant presence on Capitol Hill to expand its congressional network and provide members with up-to-the-minute analysis of education policy.

Leadership:

AACTE believes in consensus-building through open and free-flowing dialogue on education matters, consistent support for diverse learners, and serving as a principal authority on issues pertaining to teacher quality.

Service:

AACTE provides members with vital communication regarding policy issues and events, publications targeting various areas of interest, and unique professional development opportunities.

GOALS

  • Unify the membership by developing clear statements, based on evidence and professional consensus, about educator preparation in five areas: standards, curriculum, assessment, accountability, and who belongs in the profession.
  • Establish and maintain a credible voice in state and federal policy making, advocating for high quality in student learning.
  • Strengthen programs and build their capacity to prepare educators who can teach every child effectively.
  • Increase the diversity of education candidates and improve programs’ curriculum to ensure that all educators can serve diverse learners.