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Urban Teacher Academy recognized nationally

The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education selected UD’s Department of Teacher Education for the 2025 AACTE best practice award in support of multicultural education and diversity.

The university is being recognized for its Urban Teacher Academy, which prepares students to be culturally competent educators who can understand and respond to the needs and challenges of urban students, families and schools. Graduates have the opportunity to secure work in Dayton Public Schools, with ongoing support from the academy during their first three years of teaching.

"This prestigious honor underscores their leadership in preparing culturally responsive educators who champion the diversity of our nation’s classrooms,” said Cheryl Holcomb McCoy,  AACTE president and CEO. 

The award, sponsored by AACTE’s committee on global diversity, recognizes the infusion of diversity throughout all components of a school, college or department of education as critical to quality teacher preparation and professional development.

A key aspect of UD’s approach to teacher preparation is the development of critical dispositions related to equity, diversity and inclusion. The curriculum guides preservice teachers through a reflective journey, beginning with examinations of their own biases and evolving into their engagement with diverse learners. During their field placements, pre-service teachers utilize the culturally responsive education equity tool adapted by academy faculty to reflect on equitable classroom practices. Through the academy, preservice teachers gain real-world experience working with students from many cultural, linguistic and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Additionally, the academy’s work extends to support local in-service teachers, districts and community partners who seek to advance and sustain equitable pedagogical practices in schools. 

"The University of Dayton's Department of Teacher Education Program is a point of pride,” said Darlene Weaver, UD provost. “Thanks to their comprehensive, formative and community-engaged approach to teacher education, they prepare teachers to create culturally responsive and equitable learning environments. The department's work bears fruit in local schools, advances the diversification of the teaching profession and drives scholarly innovation.”


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