Prepared for Day One | Page 17

Recognizing the need for greater collaboration between EPPs and districts, the TDOE this year created a director of networks and partnerships position within the department. The director is charged with supporting EPPs and districts as they collaborate on opportunities that are focused not only on student teaching but also staffing needs and recruitment goals. Educator Preparation Partnerships Pilot Participants • East Tennessee State University, Johnson City Schools, and Kingsport City Schools • Maryville College, Alcoa City Schools, Blount County Schools, and Maryville City Schools • Tennessee Technological University, Putnam County Schools, and White County Schools • University of Tennessee-Chattanooga, Hamilton County Schools, and Marion County Schools • University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Anderson County Schools, and Knox County Schools The director of networks and partnerships is also responsible for launching an inaugural Network for Educator Preparation Partnerships. This pilot program, which includes five EPPs and their partner districts, aims to create or strengthen mutually beneficial partnerships between educator preparation providers and school districts in support of improved teaching effectiveness. Another goal of the pilot is to develop an understanding of the structures necessary to sustain and scale these partnerships. Program Accreditation The goal of accreditation is to ensure that the education provided by EPPs meets acceptable levels of quality.30 Tennessee EPPs are reviewed periodically to determine whether they are meeting the appropriate standards for accreditation. In the fall of 2014, the SBE updated the review and approval process