In 1999, under the leadership of former Dean John Taylor and in the context of state deregulation of teacher certification programs, the College of Education at the University of Arizona brought together more than 40 education professionals and citizens to form the Professional Preparation Board (PPB). The PPB's purpose was to critically assess the university's existing programs of teacher preparation, identify school- and community-based needs and chart new directions to enhance recruitment, retention and accountability in professional preparation. Composed of representatives from University of Arizona colleges associated with teacher preparation and of community and school personnel, the PPB initiated dialogue and study of critical issues in education.