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 will 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. Minimum of three years of teaching experience, including at least one year in the present assignment.
3. Certification for current teaching assignment.
4. Meeting the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction requirements for serving as a cooperating teacher, including: "Have completed a course or seminar in supervision of student teachers or interns or have qualified as a cooperating teacher prior to July 1, 1977, based on successful service as a cooperating teacher. Successful service as a cooperating teacher shall be determined by the recommendation of an immediate supervisor, a college or university supervisor, and a former student teacher or intern who has worked with the teacher in a student teaching or intern situation" (PI 4.10.5.c).
5. Strong desire to serve as a cooperating teacher.
6. Professional and ethical behavior and attitudes.
7. Demonstrated high level of professional teaching skills.
8. 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 for schools and/or for teachers.