CRITERIA FOR SELECTION OF COOPERATING TEACHERS

Cooperating teachers hold a significant and enviable position among teacher educators . Studies reveal that teachers describe their student teaching experience as having had a profound influence in determining the kind of teacher they become . Cooperating teachers are in a unique position to induct newcomers into the profession and to pass on the “torch of experience” to those who will follow them in their work.

Cooperating teacher qualifications include:

1. Academic preparation (Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred).

2. To qualify as a cooperating teacher for student teachers, teachers must meet the following three requirements as specified in Wisconsin Administrative Code [PI 34.15(6)]:

• Hold a Wisconsin license and have volunteered for assignment as a cooperating teacher or practicum supervisor

• Have at least 3 years of teaching experience with at least one year of teaching experience in the school or school system of current employment

• Have completed training in both the supervision of clinical students and in the applicable standards [Wisconsin Teacher Standards] in subchapter II.

3. Strong desire to serve as a cooperating teacher.

4. Professional and ethical behavior and attitudes.

5. Demonstrated high level of professional teaching skills.

6. Recommendation by school and university personnel.

The following factors are also considered in selecting of cooperating teachers:

1. Previous experience in working with teacher education students in field experiences.

2. Local school district policy regarding service as a cooperating teacher, e.g., limitations on total number of student teachers per semester or year.