STUDENT TEACHER'S RESPONSIBILITIES

Every student teacher seeking certification from Northern State is required to complete the following tasks:

First, Northern State University requires each student teacher to compile a professional e-portfolio that contains reflection and documentation of competencies. The portfolio is initiated during the sophomore field experience, reflections and goals are added during the junior field experiences, and the student teaching experience provides an opportunity to include student teaching goals for concluding documentation of competencies.  E-portfolios are handed in at the Diversity Seminar.

Second, one work sample demonstrating and documenting ability to foster learning in children is to be completed.  This sample could be a mini-unit (minimum of three lesson plans) or larger units that have some form of pre-assessment, plan for teaching, post-assessment, and then quantitative or qualitative analysis of learning gains or losses.  This unit, along with goals/reflections and other items should be included in the paper portfolio.  (see the rubric)

Finally, attendance at the Pre-registration, Orientation, Diversity, and Culminating Seminars is required.

There may be additional requirements expected by the cooperating teacher and university supervisor.  It is recommended that a contract or a "blueprint" of these expectations be provided during the visitation or early in the experience.

STUDENT TEACHING PAPER PORTFOLIO (detailed list)

A.  Scored items

1. Unit/Lesson Plans (with proof of learning)

2. Goals/Reflections

B.  Required Items

1. Resume

2. Cover Letter

3. Philosophy of Education

4. Classroom management Plan

5. (2) Case Studies

6. Parent Newsletter

C.  Optional Items

1. Interview

2. Video-taped Lesson

3. Sophomore goals/reflections

4. Jr. Field goals/reflections

5. Evaluations

The student teacher should have the opportunity to experience the responsibilities and obligations of the classroom teacher.  The final responsibility to the pupil does, however, remain with the cooperating teacher.  The student teacher will be regarded as a teacher by the pupils and their parents; therefore, it is necessary that his/her conduct be that of a professional who adheres to the Code of Ethics of the Teaching Profession.  The student teaching experience is designed to bridge the gap between being a student and being a teacher by providing the opportunity for the assumption of the role of professional educator.

The student teacher is expected to be prompt and regular in attendance, be available for conferences with the cooperating teacher and the university supervisor, and have both sign an absence request form when necessary.  Forms are returned to the Field Office for approval.  In cases other than illness, permission to be absent must be obtained from the Director of Field Experiences.