Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Logo
Educator Effectiveness

Frequently Asked Questions

Unsure where your question fits in the categories below? Select "View All" and the full page is searchable (Using control/command+F)

Stay Connected! If you would like to update your organization's contact information to ensure the appropriate people receive our communications, please complete the contact info form or email us at educatorpreparation@mass.gov with "Update Contact Information" in the subject line.


Program Approval: Other

  • Professional Program Approval
    • What are the expectations for Professional Teacher programs? How can I put forward a new Professional Teacher program?
      • In SY 2024-25, DESE is developing Guidelines for Approved Professional Teacher Programs to create clear expectations for approved Professional Teacher programs. In Fall 2024, we will focus on stakeholder engagement and then will build out a timeline for the revisions. **New Professional Teacher programs will not be accepted for review during this period of development.**
  • Ed Prep Reviewers
    • What is the role of reviewers in the program approval process? What is DESE looking for in a strong reviewer? How can I learn more about becoming a reviewer?
  • MA High Needs Program List
    • What programs are currently on the MA High Needs Program List?
    • When and how does the list get updated?
      • The list of MA High Needs Programs is updated prior to the launch of the Informal Review Cycle each year. The list is created based on a combination of employment/hiring data from MA districts and the current landscape of approved preparation programs in the area.
    • What is the impact of a program being on the MA High Needs Program List?
      • If a program is identified as being a MA High Needs Program, the Needs Assessment process for both Informal Review and for low-completer programs undergoing Formal Review is streamlined. See the 2024 Needs Assessment Advisory for additional information.

Last Updated: September 25, 2024

 
Contact Us

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
135 Santilli Highway, Everett, MA 02149

Voice: (781) 338-3000
TTY: (800) 439-2370

Directions

Disclaimer: A reference in this website to any specific commercial products, processes, or services, or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public and does not constitute endorsement or recommendation by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.