The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education has granted full accreditation with no stipulations to Fairfield University's Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions (GSEAP), making it the first denominational school in Connecticut to earn this distinguished recognition.

Dean Susan Franzosa thanked the School's faculty, staff, students, and alumni for their assistance in preparing for the rigorous review and site visit that are required for NCATE accreditation.

"Our faculty and students are delighted with the result," she said. "National accreditation from NCATE is the most prestigious recognition a school of education can receive. Fairfield is the second independent and first religiously affiliated institution of higher education in Connecticut to receive this award. This really speaks to the excellence of our programs."

Fairfield received full and unreserved NCATE accreditation at the initial teacher preparation and advanced preparation levels through September 2013. The School also holds a full accreditation with no stipulations through September 2013 from the Connecticut State Board of Education.

NCATE is a national accrediting body authorized by the U.S. Department of Education. It determines which schools, colleges, and department of education meet rigorous standards in preparing teachers and other school specialists to serve in today's schools.

Posted On: 11-21-2008 10:11 AM

Volume: 41 Number: 146