Licensure Subcommittee - NC Professional Educator Preparation & Standards Commission - June 11, 2026

The Licensure Subcommittee of the North Carolina Professional Educator Preparation & Standards Commission convened on June 11, 2026, to review and assess the adequacy of the Praxis music test 5114 as a content assessment for K-12 music education licensure. The meeting focused on analyzing test structure, pass rates, and the balance between content knowledge and pedagogical skills within the test. Members discussed concerns about declining pass rates nationally and in North Carolina, particularly in music history and theory, and explored whether the test creates barriers for candidates with bachelor's degrees in music but limited pedagogical training. The subcommittee considered the need for additional data, including pass rates differentiated by candidate preparation pathways, comparisons with other content assessments, and alternative testing options. They planned to gather expert input through surveys or focus groups and to review related assessments such as the music edTPA. No direct procurement or contracting decisions were made, but the discussion may influence future policy or assessment procurement. The group agreed to reconvene in two to three weeks to review further information and develop recommendations for the full commission.