In the fall and spring semesters each year, the Kansas State Department of Education holds reviews of educator preparation programs at colleges and universities across the state.  

Higher education institutions must have approved programs for all areas for which they wish to make licensing recommendations, so these program reviews are vital to maintaining strong educator preparation in Kansas. Each KSDE-accredited institution’s programs are reviewed on a seven-year cycle, with program reviews held 18 months in advance of the unit’s accreditation visit. 

KSDE is offering two virtual training workshops in April to guide attendees through the program review process. Attendees’ school districts will be reimbursed for substitutes if needed.   

Click here to register no later than Feb. 28, for the following workshops that will be on Zoom: 

• Tuesday, April 15, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. 
• Thursday, April 24, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.  

Trained reviewers thoroughly examine the description and supporting documents of an educator preparation program in their content area, and work with fellow team members (3-4 reviewers per content area) to determine whether the program meets the Kansas higher education preparation program standards for that area. They also write any Areas for Improvement (AFIs) and complete a program review team report using a provided template.  

KSDE appreciates the time and content expertise of reviewers and encourages the time spent for training and reviews be recognized as professional development service to the profession. 

Contact Catherine Chmidling, catherine.chmidling@ksde.gov, with questions.