Eastern Oregon University recognized for Excellence in Undergraduate Teacher Preparation

Eastern Oregon University recognized for Excellence in Undergraduate Teacher Preparation

LA GRANDE, Ore. – Teaching has never been a simple profession, but today’s educators face a classroom shaped by more complexity than ever before: shifting curricula, diverse learning needs, evolving technology, and communities that need teachers who are both skilled and resilient. Colleges of Distinction has named Eastern Oregon University (EOU) a 2026-2027 Education College of Distinction, recognizing an undergraduate teacher preparation program that meets the moment.

“The teacher shortage can be attributed to a variety of factors, but whether teachers are adequately prepared for this profession is chief among them,” said Rae Ette Newman, Dean of the College of Education. “When new teachers feel underprepared, they leave the profession. EOU addresses that directly, sending graduates into classrooms with the confidence, competence, and support systems they need to thrive.”

This recognition is based on demonstrated excellence in the following areas:

• Stability – The School of Education has a longstanding presence, operating for at least 10 years with consistent enrollment and an established number of degrees awarded annually.
• Accreditation – The EOU School of Education holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
• Multidisciplinarity – The School of Education offers students the opportunity to specialize in three or more distinct disciplines, including Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education (non-licensure), Special Education, and Multidisciplinary Studies.
• Practical Experience – Beginning in the first year, students engage in real-world teaching experiences across urban and rural settings, diverse socioeconomic environments, and schools of varying sizes.
• Dedicated Advising and Counseling – The School of Education provides high-quality academic advising, major-specific guidance, and career counseling tailored to Education majors.
• Industry Connections – Students have meaningful opportunities to build professional networks through job placement, internships, advisory councils, and networking activities.

To learn more about EOU’s award-winning Education programs, visit https://www.eou.edu/college-of-education/.