Marian University has earned national recognition for preparing future elementary teachers to teach reading using evidence-based instructional practices grounded in the science of reading.
The National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) awarded A+ grades to both Marian University's undergraduate and graduate elementary teacher preparation programs in its newly released report, Teacher Prep Review: Decoding Progress in Reading Preparation.
Marian's recognized programs include:
- - Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with Certification — A+
- - Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Teacher Education: Elementary Education Track — A+
The report evaluates how effectively teacher preparation programs equip future educators with the knowledge and skills needed to teach children to read. Marian earned top marks for preparing teacher candidates in the five essential components of scientifically based reading instruction: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
"Preparing excellent teachers begins with preparing them to help every child become a confident reader," said Lee Ann Kwiatkowski, Ed.D., vice president and dean of Marian University's Fred S. Klipsch Educators College. "This recognition affirms our commitment to equipping future educators with research-based practices grounded in the science of reading. Literacy changes a child's life trajectory, and Marian graduates enter classrooms ready to make a meaningful impact on students and communities across Indiana and beyond."
The recognition comes as schools across Indiana and the nation continue working to improve literacy outcomes. According to national assessment data, one in three Indiana fourth graders cannot read at a basic level, highlighting the importance of preparing teachers with effective, research-based instructional strategies.
To evaluate programs, NCTQ reviewed literacy coursework and instructional materials, including syllabi, assessments, assignments, and opportunities for teacher candidates to practice instruction. Programs receiving an A+ designation demonstrated strong alignment with evidence-based reading instruction and avoided teaching practices not supported by research.
Marian is a leader in teacher preparation programs nationwide, recognized for helping reshape how future educators are trained to teach reading. The recognition reflects Marian University's ongoing commitment to preparing highly effective classroom teachers through rigorous coursework, extensive clinical experiences, and instruction grounded in evidence-based literacy practices. Students in the Fred S. Klipsch Educators College gain hands-on experience working with children while learning proven strategies that help young readers develop foundational literacy skills.
Additional information, including Marian's program results and national comparisons, is available through NCTQ's Teacher Prep Review: Decoding Progress in Reading Preparation. Click here to read the report
To learn more about Klipsch Educators College click here