READING, PA / AGILITYPR.NEWS / August 27, 2026 / Teaching has never been a simple profession, but today's educators face a classroom shaped by more complexity than ever: shifting curricula, diverse learning needs, evolving technology and communities that need teachers who are both skilled and resilient. Colleges of Distinction has named Albright College a 2026-2027 Education College of Distinction, recognizing an undergraduate teacher preparation program that meets the moment.

“As Berks County’s oldest institution of higher learning, we take our role in preparing the teachers who will lead this community’s classrooms seriously,” Albright President Debra M. Townsley, Ph.D., said.

“Our education students spend real time in real classrooms, in urban, suburban and rural districts, long before they ever have one of their own. That’s what makes them ready on day one.”

“The teacher shortage can be attributed to a variety of factors, but whether teachers are adequately prepared for this profession is chief among them,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “When new teachers feel underprepared, they leave. Albright College addresses that directly, sending graduates into classrooms with the confidence, competence and support systems they need to thrive.”

Albright's teacher preparation program has prepared educators for Berks County classrooms and beyond for decades, maintaining Pennsylvania Department of Education approval through its most recent major review in 2020. Beginning early in their coursework, education majors gain classroom experience across urban, suburban, and rural districts throughout Berks County, culminating in a full student-teaching placement.

Education students pair their teacher certification with a combined major in their content area, ensuring depth of subject-matter knowledge alongside pedagogical training. Education majors receive specialized program advising, access to Albright's Student Success Center, and ongoing partnerships with school districts throughout Berks County, which give them regular exposure to mentor teachers, administrators, and future employers.

“Albright graduates are ready to know their students,” Schritter added. “The empathy, adaptability and classroom readiness cultivated in this program will echo through every student they teach.”

To learn more about Albright's education programs, visit, https://www.albright.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs or CollegesofDistinction.com.

About Albright

Albright College, founded in 1856, is Berks County’s oldest institution of higher learning. Located on a 118-acre suburban campus in Reading, Pa., Albright offers a rigorous liberal arts education with a distinctive interdisciplinary focus, including a flexible co-major program that empowers students to build a truly personalized academic experience. The College’s mission is to equip students to live their best lives, now and in the future, while serving the broader community through educational outreach and meaningful partnerships. Learn more at albright.edu.

About Colleges of Distinction

Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been a trusted resource for identifying excellence in higher education. The platform honors schools that prioritize the student experience through engaged learning, expert teaching, vibrant community spaces and successful post-graduate outcomes. Its website provides specialized tools, insights and search filters to help students find the ideal campus fit. Learn more at CollegesofDistinction.com.