UNCA's Teacher Education Program 
Earns Exemplary Rating in New Report

UNC Asheville's teacher education program was one of four in the state to receive yesterday an exemplary rating from the State Board of Education. The 1999-2000 Institution of Higher Education Report Card reviewed the 47 state-approved teacher education programs in private and public colleges and universities. The report, mandated by the state's Excellence in Schools Act, provides a numerical "score" for each institution, based on points awarded on 14 different program aspects. Institutions receiving 135 or more points are recognized by the State Board of Education as "exemplary."

"A unique element of UNCA's teacher preparation program is our focus on a liberal arts education," said Dr. Mark Sidelnick, Education Department chair. "Students all earn a degree in a speciality area in which they will be licensed to teach -- such as English, history or mathematics -- while also taking a wide range of general education courses, licensure courses and completing our four-course humanities program. This enables students to become teachers with a deep understanding and creative approach to teaching and learning."

The quality of UNC Asheville's teacher education program reflects the successful collaborative efforts between UNCA's Education Department faculty and staff, the Arts and Sciences faculty and staff, and UNCA's University-School Teacher Education Partnership with the Henderson, Buncombe County and Asheville City schools systems, Sidelnick said.

"This exemplary rating from the State Board of Education reflects the extraordinary quality of UNC Asheville's teacher education program," said UNCA Chancellor Jim Mullen. "We commend our staff and faculty and thank our partnership schools in the community."

Media Contacts:

• Dr. Mark Sidelnick, UNCA Education Dept. Chair, 828/251-6960
• Merianne Epstein, UNCA Public Information Director, 828/251-6676