Clinical Practice Information for Cooperating Teachers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the teacher candidate have responsibilities other than classroom teaching?
The student should attend all classroom and school activities in which the cooperating teacher is involved (according to the discretion of the cooperating teacher), but the teacher candidate is not required to help with any extra-duty responsibilities of the cooperating teacher.
Which class or subject will the teacher candidate teach first?
To be decided by the cooperating teacher and teacher candidate together.
Is the teacher candidate responsible for bulletin boards and classroom set-up?
Yes, as directed by the cooperating teacher.
Can the teacher candidate have recess duty?
Subject to the discretion of school district administration.
Can the teacher candidate substitute teach?
Yes, in certain circumstances. See section on substitute teaching in this handbook.
Does the teacher candidate use his/her own grading system?
No. The teacher candidate must use the cooperating teacher's/district system.
Can the teacher candidate see file information kept on students?
Subject to the discretion of the school district administration.
Is the teacher candidate responsible for classroom management and discipline?
Yes, whenever the teacher candidate is the person in charge.
Is there a dress code for teacher candidates?
Teacher candidates are to follow school district guidelines.
Can the teacher candidate get involved during parent/teacher conferences?
WSC encourages involvement; the final decision should follow district guidelines.
Should the teacher candidate prepare materials to be used by the cooperating teaching?
The intent of the Clinical Practice experience is for the teacher candidate to practice instructional skills and classroom management. Use your discretion.
Can the teacher candidate use tests and quizzes prepared by the cooperating teacher?
Discretion of the cooperating teacher, but it is recommended that the student teacher have some experience prepare his/her own tests and quizzes.
Do I intervene when misinformation is being presented?
It is best to address the mistake privately with the teacher candidate and allow him/her to correct the mistake with the students the next day.
Do I intervene with discipline/classroom management?
Only if it appears that the teacher candidate cannot manage the problem alone. Follow-up discussion about the situation should occur privately with the teacher candidate.
