Doctor Vortarian discusses ethics conferences to improve student readiness at Athens State

The Alabama Board of Education convened for a work session on September 3, 2025, to discuss various educational initiatives and data analysis related to teacher preparation programs. The meeting focused on the importance of utilizing comprehensive data to enhance educational outcomes and address the ongoing teacher shortage in the state.

The session began with a review of data collected by the Alabama State Department of Education, highlighting the progress made by various school systems. However, it was noted that some systems extend beyond the standard two-year data collection period, prompting discussions on the implications of this extended timeframe.

Dr. Varcharian from Athens State University presented insights on how his institution utilizes data for continuous improvement in teacher education. He emphasized the significance of the CAEP accreditation process, which requires institutions to have a plan for improvement based on data analysis. Dr. Varcharian shared that his team identified discrepancies between self-reported ethical behaviors of teacher candidates and the evaluations from their employers. This led to the establishment of an ethics conference aimed at addressing real-world challenges faced by teachers, which has reportedly improved the preparedness of graduates.

Further discussions included the need for higher education institutions to ensure that teacher candidates are well-versed in state policies and the science of reading. Board members expressed concerns about the level of understanding among local school board members regarding these critical topics, emphasizing the necessity for accountability in teacher preparation.

The meeting also touched on accreditation status, with a report indicating that 20 out of 26 programs have achieved CAEP accreditation. Clarifications were sought regarding the accreditation processes and the status of the remaining programs, with assurances that ongoing efforts are being made to assist those institutions still working towards accreditation.

Overall, the session underscored the collaborative efforts between the Alabama State Department of Education and higher education institutions to enhance teacher preparation and address the pressing issues within the educational landscape. The board members expressed a commitment to continue these discussions and ensure that the data-driven approach leads to meaningful improvements in teacher readiness and student outcomes.