Federal
Federal Policy
AACTE maintains a constant presence on Capitol Hill and with the administration to advocate on behalf of educator preparation. See AACTE’s current federal policy priorities. For updates on federal policy and AACTE’s advocacy efforts, read AACTE Talks Policy, our biweekly members-only newsletter.
- AACTE Talks Policy: July 28, 2025
- AACTE Talks Policy: July 11, 2025
- AACTE Talks Policy: July 1, 2025
- Archive
AACTE Responds to U.S. Department of Education Grant Cancellations
AACTE is partnering with the National Center for Teacher Residencies (NCTR) and several other organizations to address the cancellation of federal grants that directly affect our members. These vital grants support the essential work of our member institutions, ensuring a well-prepared educator workforce in classrooms across the nation. These actions include the following:
Stay Informed: Federal Policy Update Webinars
AACTE and its partners at Raben host ongoing webinars to keep members up to date on key policy developments in Washington. View the the latest webinars to stay informed.
Virtual Town Hall: The First Weeks of the New Administration: Implications for Ed Prep
Virtual Town Hall: Federal Policy Updates for EPP Leaders
Federal Regulations for Programs Leading to State Licensure or Certification
On July 1, 2024, new federal regulations took effect for all institutions that participate in Title IV student aid programs and offer programs leading to state professional licensure or certification.
AACTE has prepared a detailed FAQ to help members prepare for these new regulations.
In addition, on May 20, the Department of Education released its own FAQ document and a helpful flow chart on the new regulations.
Resources
Advocacy News
From: Ed Prep Matters
Federal
- AACTE Talks Policy: July 28, 2025
- AACTE Talks Policy: July 11, 2025
- What Will the So-Called “Big, Beautiful Bill” Mean for Educator Preparation?, July 8
- AACTE’s Cheryl Holcomb-McCoy Testifies in House Hearing on Screentime in Schools, June 10
- AACTE Holds 100+ Congressional Meetings to Advocate for Educator Preparation on Capitol Hill, June 9
- AACTE Stands Firmly Against Administration’s Proposed Cuts to Education, May 2
State
- Louisiana Students Improve Mastery+ Rates on LEAP, July 7
- In North Carolina: Fifteen Schools Selected to Launch $25 Million School Improvement Initiative, June 23
- Kentucky Educators Complete NISL Leadership Program and Registration Launches for Next Cohort, June 11
- In New York: Department Releases New Numeracy Briefs for PK-12 Mathematics Instruction, May 28
- In California: Leaders Announce $618 Million to Support Another 458 Community Schools, May 14
Federal Advocacy
While many of the decisions governing educator preparation are made at the state level, the federal government and the Congress have roles affecting the profession as well.
The most important aspect of engaging in federal advocacy is the power of the constituent voice. Members of Congress act based on the information provided to them first and foremost by their constituents. Over time, you want to build relationships with both members of Congress and their staff handling education so that you become one of the sources that officials consult for information and ideas related to educator preparation.
Get to know the resources offered through this site. You can watch recordings of federal update webinars, download printable guides for key stages of the advocacy process, and find links to other websites with resources and information on legislation, congressional votes, and more.
Remember to register to receive AACTE Action Alerts and visit this web page often for the latest resources and information to support your advocacy efforts.
Need Help?
Jacqueline E. King, Ph.D.
AACTE Consultant, Research, Policy, & Advocacy