By the Numbers: Generating Excellence in Classrooms Across America

This week, the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching released its 2025 Annual Report, Generating Excellence in Classrooms Across America, highlighting stories of success, data, and state spotlights from the most recent year. Even after more than 25 years of impact, each year brings a new opportunity to reflect on our progress and continue to chart our path forward.

Since day one, NIET has worked alongside states and districts to elevate teaching and expand opportunity for all students. Across the country, our partnerships are driving measurable results, including these milestones we’re celebrating:

• Four consecutive years of student growth in Louisiana reflect the power of sustained instructional support.
• 1,300 Arkansas educators have expanded their instructional leadership schools by earning the Lead and Master Designations through NIET.
• When educators took on defined leadership roles, 9 out of 10 school leaders in Texas said it positively impacted teacher retention.
• In an Arizona study, nearly all school leaders - 95%- said teacher leaders strengthen retention in their schools.
• For early-career teachers in Tennessee, evaluation supports growth: 9 in 10 agree it improves their practice.
• Commitment to the profession is strong in Indiana, where 91% of educators said they intend to remain in their school system over the next five years.
• A research study on NIET partner schools in South Carolina found a $14 to $1 return on investment.

For a deeper dive, read the full NIET 2025 Annual Report here.