UVM educator licensure programs have been honored by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The prestigious Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement Award celebrates programs that achieve CAEP accreditation through demonstrated excellence in preparing future educators.

“This national recognition affirms our deep commitment to preparing outstanding teachers who are ready to meet the needs of schools in Vermont and across the country,” said College of Education and Social Services Dean Katie Shepherd. “It highlights the strength and relevance of our curriculum and field-based learning experiences.”

National accreditation reflects the College’s mission to uphold the highest standards of quality and innovation in educator preparation, ensuring graduates are exceptionally well-equipped to make an impact in classrooms and communities nationwide.

"To earn this award, faculty, staff and students in the College of Education and Social Services – alongside their school and community partners – collectively engaged in a self-study across seven years," noted Department of Education Chair Kimberly Vannest. "It is symbolic of our commitment to inquiry and participatory collaboration, responding to community needs, and reflects our value in using data and ongoing conversations to inform decisions."

Named after the founding President of the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC), the award celebrates Murray’s legacy as a champion for rigorous educator preparation standards and his role in uniting the profession through the creation of CAEP.

“These providers are committed to preparing their candidates to make a positive difference in the lives of all K-12 students as soon as they enter the classroom,” said Yuhang Rong, Chair of the CAEP Board of Directors. “The Murray Leadership Recognition highlights their dedication to continuous improvement, accountability, and quality through purposeful use of evidence.”