Graduates of Alaska's Teacher Preparation Programs-Where Are They Now?

Abstract

This presentation includes a review of the sources of data, and presents preliminary findings on graduates of initial certification programs in Alaska. It's purpose was to collect feedback on what analyses to add, refine, and revise. Data is presented in a series of charts and graphs with interpretations. We matched teacher program graduation data with Department of Labor data on Permanent Fund Dividend applications – a proxy for Alaska residence. Most people are eligible for a PFD by the time they complete a teacher preparation program here, so we looked at graduates who completed their programs between 2001 and 2003, and PFD applications from 2003 to 2005. Only 10% did not apply for a PFD in 2003,. We expected that number to rise if teachers moved out of state. Teachers who leave Alaska schools but remain in Alaska continue to apply for the PFD; those who don’t apply have probably left the state. By 2005, 16% no longer applied for a PFD and were probably no longer in Alaska. Further information is available in a summary and full report with a similar title.