The W’s education program reports strong exam results, job placement outcomes
Graduates of the School of Education at Mississippi University for Women achieved a 100% pass rate on two professional certification exams required for teacher licensure, underscoring the program’s success in preparing classroom-ready educators.
The student cohort recorded a 100% pass rate on the Foundations of Reading and Praxis 5622 exams, both of which assess readiness for teaching in elementary education settings. The students also achieved a 95% pass rate on Praxis 5017, Elementary Education: Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment.
“Our candidates are not just preparing to pass exams; they are consistently engaging in instructional practices, assessment design and classroom experiences that mirror the expectations of today’s schools,” said Kelly Ballard, chair of The W’s Department of Education. “We are seeing that our graduates enter classrooms ready to teach effectively from day one. They understand how to align standards, instruction and assessment, and they are equipped to make instructional decisions that directly impact student learning.”
All elementary education candidates are required to pass all three assessments as part of the licensure process. The exams are designed to ensure candidates are fully prepared to enter the classroom.
“This group was a true cohort that supported each other so well, demonstrating the importance of peer and team engagement, especially necessary for success in education,” said Dr. Marty Hatton, dean of the School of Education.
Twenty of the graduates are successfully employed as teachers with three pursuing graduate degrees in education. Sixteen are employed in Mississippi, with five working in high-need districts.
The 2024-25 Title II test scores were officially released in early April 2026.
The Mississippi Foundations of Reading Test assesses proficiency in and depth of understanding of the subject of reading and writing development. Praxis 5017, Elementary Education: Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, evaluates a candidate’s ability to plan lessons, deliver instruction and assess student learning. Praxis 5622, Principles of Learning and Teaching: Grades K-6, measures understanding of how students learn, classroom management and effective teaching practices.
In December 2025, the Mississippi Department of Education reported more than 3,800 teacher vacancies in Mississippi, highlighting the continued need for well-prepared educators.