All Kentucky educator preparation providers (EPPs), and the programs that lead to educator certification, must be approved by the Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB). Program approval requires all EPPs to demonstrate alignment to the Specialized Standards Association (SPA), Kentucky Teacher Performance Standards and the Kentucky Academic Standards (KAS). A multi-level review process helps ensure that all programs meet Kentucky state statutes and regulations for educator preparation.
Educator Preparation Standards
The Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB) ensures that all Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs) in Kentucky align with rigorous state and national standards, including but not limited to the Kentucky Teacher Performance Standards (KTPS), Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium (InTASC), and additional Specialized Professional Association (SPA) standards.
These standards play a critical role in shaping high-quality educator programs that meet both national and state expectations. The alignment with standards also guarantees that EPPs provide high-quality, evidence-based training that prepares educators to effectively meet the diverse needs of students and uphold professional teaching standards throughout the state.
Click here for additional information about the recognized standards in Kentucky.
Overview of the Review Process
STEP 1: Program Application – The educator preparation institution submits an educator program for review.
STEP 2: Review and Evaluation – Programs are reviewed and evaluated for regulatory alignment as well as standards alignment to coursework and assessments to ensure high-quality educator preparation.
STEP 3: Recommendation – A board appointed committee reviews all submitted materials. Once all program requirements are met, the committee makes a recommendation
STEP 4: Final Approval – The EPSB reviews the recommendation and votes for final approval.
Contact Information
For additional information, please contact KDE/KBE Academic Program Manager Melissa Diebel.
