([Indianapolis, IN]) – The Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP) has awarded full 7-year accreditation to the Special Education: Rigorous Acceleration to Licensure (SPED: RAL) program of SPEDACTS.
After reviewing the evidence collected through a process of self-study and peer review, the AAQEP Accreditation Commission issued the decision at its March 7 meeting along with the following rationale:
The Commission evaluated the program’s evidence for each AAQEP standard and determined that all four standards are met. The program prepares candidates to work effectively as professional educators who can adapt to different contexts and continue to grow professionally. SPEDACTS maintains program quality by analyzing evidence of its effectiveness and making revisions to benefit candidates. The program works to diversify the special education teacher workforce, engages with stakeholders and partners to strengthen the P-20 education system, and maintains strong connections to program alumni in the profession.
“Congratulations to SPEDACTS and to all of its participants and stakeholders who have achieved their goal of national accreditation by AAQEP,” said AAQEP President and CEO Mark LaCelle-Peterson. “The program supports diverse educators who enter the profession with needed skills and abilities, and who meet the needs of its school partners.”
National accreditation assures the quality of professional preparation programs through a nongovernmental, nonregulatory process of self-study and peer review. This standards- and evidence-based process serves two broad aims: accountability and continuous improvement. The AAQEP model is also designed to honor local context and foster innovation and collaboration among institutions. AAQEP currently has members in 36 states and territories with over 200 educator preparation providers participating in the accreditation system.
“Earning national accreditation from AAQEP is both an honor and a reflection of our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence in special education. This recognition affirms the impact of our mission—to prepare diverse, skilled educators who are ready to lead, adapt, and make a difference from day one.”
About SPEDACTS
SPEDACTS connects schools across the Midwest with affordable, high-quality special education services and licensed professionals. From consulting and licensure support to literacy coaching, health services, and data analysis, SPEDACTS helps schools bridge the gap between student needs and expert support—empowering educators and improving outcomes for students with special needs.
About AAQEP
Founded in 2017, AAQEP is a membership association and quality assurance agency that provides accreditation services and formative support to all types of educator preparation providers. The organization promotes excellent, effective, and innovative educator preparation that is committed to evidence-based improvement in a collaborative professional environment.