University of Southern Indiana’s English Teaching Program is now accredited through the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), meaning that it is a nationally recognized department with no conditions. The recognition signifies that the department is responsible for English Teaching, students majoring in English Teaching (ENGT) and minoring in secondary education.
Dr. Amy Montz, assistant professor in English, who spent two years leading the accreditation efforts with the help of her colleagues, says “considering the recent information about the shortage of teachers in Indiana, this is an important step in gaining future teachers of English.â€
The National Council of Teachers of English is one of eight subject specific organizations with membership in the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the professional accrediting agency for teacher preparation. Institutions seeking CAEP accreditation must meet carefully developed specific conditions. One of those conditions is program approval. NCTE is responsible for reviewing undergraduate English language arts education programs for institutions seeking CAEP accreditation.
This accreditation brings various benefits for students in the program. Montz says “students will now feel completely confident in their efforts within a nationally accredited program.†She also adds that being trained in a nationally accredited program is a strong resume builder for students.
