STEPHENVILLE, Texas — The Texas Education Agency has commended Tarleton State University’s Educator Preparation Program (EPP) for recruiting, preparing and supporting the certification of teachers in two areas: rural schools and career and technical education.

“The collective hard work of our students, faculty and staff is responsible for these recognitions,” said Dr. Kim Rynearson, Dean of the College of Education. “We have dedicated faculty and staff across every college who work to prepare Tarleton students to become the most talented educators for the children of Texas. Tarleton is honored to receive these commendations.”

This is the second consecutive year for the university’s career and technical education program to receive the TEA accolade.

“This is an affirmation that our faculty continues Tarleton’s long, rich history of producing high-quality agriscience teachers,” said Dr. Barry Lambert, Dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “I could not be prouder of our faculty and students who contributed to this recognition.”

Of 27 EPP programs recognized in the TEA’s Preparing Educators Texas Needs category, only three others earned commendations in multiple areas.

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.