Ed Prep Resources

Focused research questions drive our progress. DESE is guided by three strategies set by the Office of Planning and Research (OPR):

• Produce insightful, timely information on key policy issues and program initiatives.
• Strengthen the use of data and evidence for DESE and the field.
• Transform practices to more effectively implement DESE's highest priority initiatives.

CAP assesses a teacher candidate's readiness in relation to the Professional Standards for Teachers (PSTs). CAP parallels the Massachusetts Educator Evaluation system in order to better prepare teacher candidates and ensure that they are ready to be effective on day one. It measures teacher candidates' practice across a range of key indicators as outlined in the Guidelines for the Professional Standards for Teachers and supports them in improving their practice based on the results.

In 2024, the PST and CAP Guidelines were updated in alignment with revisions to the Standards of Effective Practice. The 2019 CAP Guidelines may be used through the 2024-2025 school year. All resources at the below links align with the 2019 CAP Guidelines. DESE will update these resources during the 2024-2025 school year. See the PST and CAP page for additional information and the updated Guidelines.

Successful completion of CAP is required to complete all teacher preparation programs. Sponsoring Organizations are required to send to DESE all formative and summative ratings for all CAP participants by uploading their data to the CAP Online Platform.

• CAP Resources
• CAP Online Platform

As outlined in 603 CMR 7.03 (5), the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is required to administer and publicly report survey data about the quality of educator preparation in the state. This requirement is intended to grant access to perceptions of teacher readiness in the Commonwealth to both preparation providers and the general public.