April 7, 2025 — As we continue to navigate the complex landscape of public policy, the work that the National Center for Teacher Residencies (NCTR) does behind the scenes is essential to shaping the future of our Network and the broader education community. Many of you may not be aware of how actively we engage on issues that directly impact our Network and Residency Design Academy (RDA) members and the programs we support. It’s a dynamic process that requires vigilance, expertise, and collaboration.
Over the past several months, NCTR has been working relentlessly with both Congress and our members to assess the impact of recent administrative changes on teacher preparation programs, resident teachers, and the students and communities they serve. Our efforts have ranged from co-leading a crucial sign-on letter urging Congress to call on the U.S. Department of Education to reverse harmful cuts to teacher preparation programs, to holding direct meetings with Congressional staff to ensure they fully understand the magnitude of these impacts. Additionally, we’ve worked to amplify this message by sharing the letter that Congress sent on these issues with our advocacy partners. NCTR is firmly at the forefront of advocacy for teacher preparation programs, tirelessly working to protect and advance the field.
Beyond our advocacy work, we are also committed to helping our Network and RDA members navigate the real-time implications of federal policy changes. Through our weekly Policy RoundUps, we break down the latest Executive Orders and administrative shifts in clear, accessible language, ensuring our members are fully informed about what these changes mean for them. To further strengthen our collective voice, we’re launching a new series of webinars, including Advocacy 101, to empower our members with the knowledge and confidence to effectively communicate the important work they’re doing to both Congress and their local elected officials.
This policy work is a core part of NCTR’s mission and continues to strengthen the programs we support. This is just one of the many ways NCTR adds value, ensuring that the programs we work with are not only connected to critical resources but are also influencing the policies that govern them.
Sincerely,
Erica Romero
Managing Director of Policy
National Center for Teacher Residencies