CT SB00997

Establishes the Educator Preparation Advisory Council within the Department of Education to develop and implement a system for approval, regulation, oversight, and accreditation of teacher preparation programs.

Council membership includes the Commissioner of Education, president of the Board of Regents for Higher Education, chairperson of the Board of Trustees for University of Connecticut, executive director of the Office of Higher Education, one representative each from five specified education associations, and representatives from teacher preparation programs selected by the Commissioner.

Council shall evaluate teacher preparation programs based on graduate classroom performance, employment outcomes (retention and dismissal rates), educator preparedness, recruitment effectiveness, and school district feedback regarding graduate readiness.

Requires the council to submit annual reports by January 15, 2014 and 2015, then biennially thereafter, to joint standing committees of the General Assembly on education, higher education, and employment advancement, including evaluations and legislative recommendations.

Takes effect upon passage.