MARSHALL, Minn. — Southwest Minnesota State University’s elementary education program has earned an A+ rating from the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) for preparing future teachers to teach reading using evidence-based instructional methods.
The recognition comes in NCTQ’s Teacher Prep Review: Decoding Progress in Reading Preparation, released June 9. SMSU received the top rating for preparing future elementary teachers in all five components of scientifically based reading instruction: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension.
“This recognition affirms the intentional work our faculty have done to prepare future teachers with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience they need to teach reading effectively,” said Dr. Sonya Vierstraete, chair of SMSU’s Education Department. “At SMSU, we are committed to grounding our teacher preparation in evidence-based practices, so our graduates are ready to make a meaningful difference for children and families from their first day in the classroom.”
According to NCTQ, programs earning an A+ demonstrate all five core components of scientifically based reading instruction and avoid teaching instructional practices that research has found to be ineffective.
“Every child deserves a teacher who has been well prepared to teach reading, and every teacher deserves the opportunity to enter the classroom ready to help students succeed,” said NCTQ President Heather Peske. “Across the country, many teacher preparation programs still do not fully align with the science of reading, but Southwest Minnesota State University is demonstrating what strong preparation can look like.”
SMSU’s Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education program prepares students for Minnesota K-6 teaching licensure through professional coursework, field experiences, pre-student teaching and student teaching opportunities.
“At SMSU, we take great pride in preparing graduates who are ready to make a difference in the places they are called to serve,” said SMSU President Dr. David Jones. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our faculty and the quality of our teacher preparation program. When our graduates enter classrooms prepared to help children become strong readers, they are changing lives, strengthening schools, and serving communities across Minnesota and beyond.”
