News Article

FSW Elementary Ed Program Number 1 in the State in FLDOE Rankings

Jul 1, 2021


JULY 1, 2021 – FORT MYERS, FLA. – Florida SouthWestern State College’s (FSW) Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education program has ranked number one in the state in the Florida Department of Education’s (FLDOE) Annual Program Performance Reports (APPR), tying with Florida Atlantic University.

The FLDOE completes APPRs for colleges and universities that have state approved teacher preparation programs. Institutions are scored based on performance metrics, which are part of Florida statutes.

“Each performance metric appropriate for a program receives a performance level score ranging from one (1) to four (4) based on the performance level target points,” said Dr. April Fleming, dean, FSW School of Education. “This is designed to evaluate the outcome-based performance of graduates from teacher preparation programs.”

The six performance metrics include placement rate, retention rate, student performance on statewide assessments, student performance by subgroups, teacher evaluation results and critical teacher shortage production.

Data is taken from specific cohorts of graduates over various years to calculate performance levels. FSW’s Elementary Education program has seen its ranking increase over the last three years with significant increases in the student achievement and student achievement by subgroup metrics. Additionally, 99.2% of FSW graduates employed in an instructional position in 2018-2019 received an evaluation rating of Highly Effective or Effective by their school administrator.

“A teacher prepared in a top teacher preparation program means that students in our local elementary schools will have a teacher who is innovative in the classroom, ensuring they reach each child,” Dr. Fleming said. “These highly qualified teachers are purposeful and intentional with teaching strategies that create an environment that fosters student learning and growth. They also work to build strong relationships between school, families and the community. Administrators look to hire new teachers who have completed a top-ranked teacher preparation program, such as FSW's, as they are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to successfully facilitate learning in an academically-enriched classroom environment.”

To learn more about FSW’s School of Education, visit www.fsw.edu/soe.

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Florida SouthWestern State College is Southwest Florida’s largest and most affordable institution of higher education. Annually serving nearly 22,000 students globally, FSW offers a variety of nationally-ranked, career-focused academic programs with two- and four-year degrees and professional certifications, several with 100 percent licensure pass and job placements rates. Study and travel abroad opportunities are available for students through FSW’s Center for International Education. Students are also active in clubs and programs catered to their interests. Visit www.FSW.edu for more information.

Last Updated: July 1, 2021

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