USAO Teacher Education Sets Public Hearing Nov. 11

A public forum on the status and progress of the teacher education program at the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is scheduled Nov. 11 at 4 p.m. The annual public hearing is scheduled in the Gary Hall Lounge at 17th and Alabama.

This public hearing is one of many to be held statewide, designed to give the public an opportunity to review and comment on changes being made in teacher education programs -- not only at USAO -- but at all teacher education colleges in Oklahoma.

"In compliance with House Bill 1549 and the Open Meetings Act, this annual event provides the interested public an opportunity to raise questions about new directions in teacher preparation," explained USAO President John Feaver.

Several years ago, the Oklahoma Commission on Teacher Preparation, which was created by law in 1993, directed colleges and universities with teacher education programs to hold progress forums. “Our programs are involved in continuous improvement as we prepare teachers equipped to help all children learn.  We welcome the opportunity to share our progress in a public forum,” said Dr. Vicki Ferguson, director of teacher education at USAO.

Using portfolio methods of tracking candidate success, teacher preparation now focuses chiefly on teacher candidate competencies. It is an approach to education focusing on outcome competencies that is increasingly characterizing Oklahoma's public school system. In addition to demonstrating competencies, candidates must complete a bachelor's degree, certification examinations and a background check.

Members of the community who are interested in teacher education are invited to attend and participate.