This study explores changes over time in assessment strategies and identifies variables that facilitate that change by examining assessment practices of secondary teacher candidates enrolled in a one-year postbaccalaureate teacher education program that prepares candidates for teaching in rural and urban settings in Alaska. There was a change in emphasis and range of assessment strategies between the first and second semester of the teacher education program. The extent of change varied between rural and urban candidates indicating a need for more attention to the specifics of rural education. The variables that changed candidates’ emphasis and range of assessment strategies the most included mentor teachers, field experiences inclusive of unit planning, and the university coursework.