LORMAN — Alcorn State University’s School of Education and Psychology has received initial accreditation for seven years from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). The School of Education and Psychology received the news in late November.

With this distinction, Alcorn is the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) and the only institution of higher learning in the state of Mississippi to be accredited by CAEP.

“Alcorn State University is proud of the quality of its educational leaders who facilitate learning in America’s classrooms,” President Alfred Rankins Jr. said. “We are pleased that our legacy now includes this prominent recognition.”

Dr. Robert Carr, dean of the School of Education and Psychology, led the accreditation process, which included a self-study and a site visit by CAEP representatives.

“This is an extremely significant accomplishment for Alcorn and the School of Education and Psychology. Achieving CAEP accreditation is a validation of the commitment that Alcorn has made in providing the rigorous educator preparation programs required for our students to achieve academic and employment success,” Carr said.

CAEP is the national accrediting body for schools, colleges, and departments of education authorized by the U.S. Department of Education. CAEP determines which schools and colleges meet rigorous national standards in preparing new and experienced teachers and other school specialists for the classroom and other P-12 service.