This qualitative study explores the perspectives of accreditation leaders on national accreditation processes and their ability to support or constrain efforts to advance culturally responsive pedagogy (CRP) and equity in educator preparation programs (EPPs). Informed by Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Institutional Theory, the study draws on survey data and semi-structured interviews with 62 accreditation leaders across 23 states. Findings highlight accreditation’s dual role as both a mechanism for continuous improvement and a protective shield for DEI initiatives in politically restrictive environments. This research contributes to ongoing policy discourse on the role of accountability structures in fostering equity and offers recommendations for repositioning accreditation as a justice-oriented educational tool.
Dr. Todd McCardle is a Professor of Teacher Education and the Associate Director of the School of Education at Eastern Kentucky University. His research interests include the roles of diversity and issues of social justice in public schools and teacher education programs.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in English Education from McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He taught five years at Mayde Creek High School in the Katy Independent School District and seven years at Memorial High School in Houston's Spring Branch Independent School District in Houston, Texas.
Dr. McCardle earned a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Houston and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Florida.
Dr. Jilliane McCardle has worked with students, teachers, and families in Texas, Florida, and Kentucky. Her K–12 career includes roles as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, principal, gifted services coordinator, multilingual coordinator, and Advanced Language Arts and AP Research instructor. She is an Assistant Professor in Eastern Kentucky University’s School of Education while providing gifted services to students at Model Laboratory Schools at EKU. Dr. McCardle holds an Ed.D. in Leadership from the University of Houston and a Gifted (P–12) Endorsement from EKU. Her research focuses on gifted programming and identification, teacher appraisal and support, and creating affirming learning spaces for pre-service and K12 students.