AAQEP, the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation, is a prominent membership association and quality assurance agency. Established in 2017, AAQEP offers accreditation services and formative support to all types of educator preparation providers (EPPs). The association is nationally recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and operates as a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.

S. Internal Revenue Code. With over 200 EPPs in 35 states and other jurisdictions as active members, AAQEP strives to promote and recognize high-quality educator preparation that serves students, schools, and communities equitably.

Their services include supporting professional development, coordinating formative peer reviews for quality assurance and continuous improvement, and designing accreditation processes that respect the autonomy and diversity of institutions and providers. AAQEP's design principles revolve around collaboration, improvement, and innovation. They prioritize partnership among institutions, state agencies, and AAQEP to ensure consistent and calibrated reviews and decisions.

Through their efficient operations, AAQEP facilitates the sharing of findings and innovations with the education field. For those seeking professional learning opportunities, AAQEP offers free member support webinars, workshops, and an annual symposium. Operating with the mission to strengthen the education profession's ability to serve all students, schools, and communities, AAQEP envisions promoting excellent, effective, and evidence-based educator preparation