N.C. A&T’s Educator Preparation Program Tops State in Employer, Candidate Satisfaction

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (Nov. 18, 2025) – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has earned top marks from both principals and graduates for the quality of its Educator Preparation Program (EPP).

According to the most recent North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) Educator Preparation Performance Report, N.C. A&T ranked No. 1 in the state with 100% employer satisfaction and 100% candidate satisfaction, outperforming both public and private institutions statewide. 

“This recognition affirms the intentional work of our faculty, staff and school partners to prepare educators who are not only ready to teach but ready to lead,” said Gerrelyn Patterson, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Educator Preparation. “Our graduates enter classrooms across North Carolina and beyond equipped to engage all learners and transform student outcomes. Our alumni are making powerful and lasting impacts in their schools and classrooms.”

Housed in the College of Education (COEd), the Department of Educator Preparation consists of undergraduate and graduate pathways in elementary, secondary and special education; an M.A in teaching; and non-licensure programs in educational studies. The program emphasizes practice-based teacher preparation, data-driven instruction, and community partnership, equipping graduates to thrive in today’s classrooms.

Principals rated A&T candidates exceptionally high across key teaching competencies, including Pedagogical Methods and Content Knowledge (94 to 95%) and Student Efficacy and Professional Development (95%). These results reflect A&T’s deep partnerships with public schools and its commitment to evidence-based teaching practice.

Graduates of A&T’s EPP also rated their preparation among the best in the state, with 100% reporting they felt “well” or “very well prepared” to enter the classroom — compared with the statewide average of 76%. Candidates gave high marks for their preparation in Instructional Alignment and Reflection (86%); Building Relationships and Maintaining High Expectations (85%); and Assessment, Lesson Design, and Collaboration (82 to 84%).

According to a September 2025 report by WUNC, North Carolina’s public schools have fewer vacancies this year, but the improvement stems largely from districts cutting positions rather than filling them. The teacher shortage remains a serious concern across the state, underscoring the ongoing need to recruit and prepare more qualified educators. With this consistent demand, A&T’s EPP plays a crucial role in preparing the educator workforce across many of North Carolina’s highest-need schools.

“North Carolina A&T’s legacy of excellence extends powerfully into the field of education, producing graduates who stand out for their knowledge, professionalism and impact — these results confirm what principals already know: Aggie educators excel,” said COEd Dean Paula G. Price, Ph.D. “As North Carolina continues to navigate teacher shortages, N.C. A&T remains steadfast in its commitment to developing highly skilled educators whose excellence strengthens classrooms and communities across the state.”