Educator Preparation policies include the standards, rules, and requirements educator preparation providers (EPPs) and programs meet in order to earn and maintain approval to offer programs resulting in certification. In addition, educator preparation policies describe procedures for approval review and monitoring, and EPP reporting requirements.

GaPSC policy development is inclusive in that it frequently involves either an ad hoc task force or a standing advisory group. Task forces and advisory groups are comprised of subject-matter experts and education stakeholders—those who are directly and indirectly impacted by our policies. Representatives of Georgia P-12 schools, colleges and universities, RESAs, professional associations, and other state agencies serve on GaPSC task forces and advisory groups. These stakeholders provide valuable input from multiple and diverse perspectives, helping ensure policies are fair and focused on improving educational outcomes for students, as well as educators.

Once a task force or advisory group examines policy requirements, expectations, and implications, they make policy recommendations for consideration. GaPSC staff share those recommendations with the 18-member board of the Professional Standards Commission, which serves as the final decision-making body. After commission approval, GaPSC staff disseminate the new or revised policies to all EPPs then work with them to ensure their understanding of the policies and GaPSC expectations for implementation.