Our History

The current program for teacher education within the Graduate School of Education began in 1962. An increased interest in the improvement of teacher training led to the formation of the Buffalo Research Institute on Education for Teaching (BRIET) in 1988. Guided by faculty member (and now Professor Emeritus) Catherine Cornbleth, BRIET’s mission included studying teaching methods and preparation; planning and implementing programs to enhance pre-service and continuing education of teachers; and researching professional development and support services for schools. Since its inception, the teacher education program has helped thousands of students become certified teachers in New York State. In 1999, BRIET was renamed the Teacher Education Institute, and in 2019 it was renamed the Office of Educator Preparation.