UNIVERSITY - Formsite behavior management Content Knowledge Areas for growth More practica (MS and Sec.) Behavior management Working …

Program Recommendations Summer 2013 – Spring 2014 Page 1

UNIVERSITY PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS

BY TEACHER CANDIDATE

Teacher candidate’s area of certification: ___________________________________

Indicate areas where you believe has prepared you well.

Indicate areas where you believe could have better prepared you for the profession.


UNIVERSITY PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS

BY COOPERATING TEACHER

Teacher candidate’s area of certification: ___________________________________

Indicate areas where you believe has prepared your teacher candidate well.

Indicate areas where you believe could have better prepared your teacher candidate.


CERTIFICATION PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS Summer 2013 – Spring 2014

STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS

Synopsis of Recommendations

Strengths

Lesson planning

Ample practica placements

Reflection

Assessment

Classroom behavior management

Content Knowledge Areas for growth

More practica (MS and Sec.)

Behavior management

Working with parents

Technology

Instructors that differentiate

Differentiated instruction

More lesson planning (MS & Sec.)

IEP writing (SpEd)


CERTIFICATION PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS Summer 2013 – Spring 2014

COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS

Synopsis of Recommendations Strengths

Content Knowledge

Professionalism


Lesson plans

assessment Areas for growth

Content specific technology (MS/Sec)

Behavior management

Technology


Assessment

Unit planning (MS)


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ART

Indicate areas where you believe has prepared you well to be a

teacher. (Asterisks indicate additional people commented on the same thing.)

Fall

Spring

I have learned to think through the process of developing and aligning lesson plans and units.

I understand that treating all students fairly does not mean treating them the same.

I feel that I have a grasp of current practices in the field of education.

I learned to think through important components of lesson plans with ease.

I can use data to inform my instruction.

I know many current theories and instructional strategies.

has certainly taught me how to plan for many situations and different learning strategies in the classroom. taught me how to break my lessons up into pieces to ensure that I am meeting my students’ needs every step of the way through a class.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS EARLY CHILDHOOD



Fall

Experience in the classroom (could have a little more).

Writing a lesson plan

I believe has prepared me well in my time management skills. I was able to remain calm most of my student teaching and get my assignments in on time.

Also, I believe prepared me well in classroom management. I was able to successfully manage any behavior problems that I encountered.

I believe has done an excellent job of teaching and showing me what it means to be a professional educator and why that is important.

Working with colleagues and parents

Strategies

Lesson to teach children

Areas where I believe has prepared me well to be teacher is learning how to teach students using hands on activities to keep the students engaged in learning (math, communication arts, science and social studies).

Lesson plans are another area I believe prepared me well to be a teacher; felt prepared and organized using the DESE website and learning the standards for 1st grade.

Spring

I believe that prepared me in the areas of creating and implementing lesson plans, classroom management strategies, as well as collaborative attitude.

I felt did an amazing job of preparing me for writing and implementing lesson plans.

helped me gain comfort around students. I have had so many practicums that it came natural to me to be up in front of the class.

Practicum Hours – Hands on experience

small class sizes---- professor/student communication and interaction

has prepared me well to be a teacher through well-developed classes. The classes that I have taken have taught me methodologies, theories and practices that are appropriate to use in the classroom.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ELEMENTARY



Fall

Lesson Planning

Assessment

Reflecting

has prepared me well in the areas of assessment, reading, differentiation, and multiple intelligences. I felt very prepared to enter my own classroom and am happy was the place I could learn to be a teacher.

Spring

Lesson planning

Creation of assessments

Knowledge of resources available for today’s teachers

Well-rounded content knowledge of all core subjects

I believe has prepared me very well in differentiating instruction, using many different teaching strategies, using assessment, and reflection.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ENGLISH



Fall

Classroom management

Content area- strategies, curriculum

Behavior management-working with students, parent, etc., communication, positive reinforcement

Assessment strategies, how to analyze data

Preparation/lesson planning

I believe my most useful class was EDU597: The Instructional Process. It was incredibly in-depth, and Jane continues to be one of the greatest teacher I have ever had. I continue to use her as a resource, and often times used instead of my University Supervisor. This course was so helpful, and it built my confidence in writing lesson plans, creating units, and helped to clear up any questions I had about the Culminating Project. Jane continues to be a source of knowledge for me in this department, because she always provides a straightforward answer. If I could take this course again, I would. I learned so much about education in that course! I am eternally grateful to Jane for her guidance. Because of her class, I felt confident using the CCSS within the classroom, and was incredibly familiar with the standards, despite the fact that they were new.

Spring


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS FACS



Fall

Spring

has laid the foundation for many aspects of teaching.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS MATH



Fall

Planning for instruction

Instruction, especially the observation hours and EDU201 experience

Content area knowledge

Knowledge of relevant laws/ polices affect the field

Knowledge of PD opportunities, especially within my content area (NCTM opportunities, MEGSL opportunities).

Spring

I felt very comfortable preparing for each lesson.

My questioning skills were developed throughout the program.

I had been exposed to the classroom environment multiple times in several classes before my student teaching. This made me more comfortable and prepared.

I felt like I had been prepared to build student-teacher and teacher-teacher relationships.

has prepared me to effectively manage a classroom and be a reflective, not reactive teacher.

Overall, a great experience over my 4 years.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS MIDDLE SCHOOL



Fall

Areas that has prepared me to be a great teacher is in planning a lesson, writing an assessment (summative) and working with students that have IEP’s.

I felt very prepared in handling students with IEP’s that required differentiated learning instruction.

I also felt that prepared me to handle effective classroom management with students. All skills that I learned in Behavior Management worked very well!

I feel that has prepared me to be a teacher by having courses that trained me well in all aspects of education. The courses are designed to prepare students in many different ways. The education classes that we take are all taught by trained educators who know what is expected in the classroom. The coursework that is completed for an education major lies directly with what you need to do to be an effective teacher. They taught me how to be a professional in building a classroom management and the content.

Spring

Practical experience in the field

Relevant theories, strategies and teaching methods

Variety of assessment strategies

Access to a career counselor and job searching opportunities

Caring, dedicated mentors and professors who give meaningful feedback

has done a great job in preparing me to plan lessons.

I understand the importance of reflecting. Teaching is a profession that causes us to be reflective. has prepared me to think more.

I believe instruction has been at higher depth of knowledge. I am thankful for the opportunity to receive instruction from educators who understand what is required of an effective teacher.

was very in-depth in preparing us for management of our classroom at least as far as information about what one should do to handle behavioral problems. It was interesting to be in an RIT meeting or other such type of meeting and know exactly what all they would be talking about, especially in procedures, data collection and intervention plans.

The importance of getting to know our students and having effective communication with everyone.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SOCIAL SCIENCES



Fall

Spring


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPECIAL EDUCATION



Fall

I felt prepared me well with the content.

I learned ideas and strategies for being a good educator.

Applying for jobs and the interview process

Reading strategies/evaluation tools

I like the amount of guidance I had. I knew what was expected of me.

I think has prepared me to become a teacher by providing me with strategies that I can implement in the classroom. I think back to my classes from for ideas in lessons and to help with classroom management ideas.

I feel that I have also had a lot of practice with differentiating instruction.

Provided me with great structure to I.P.S.

Provided in-depth IEP experience

Behavior management techniques

I believe has prepared me well to be an effective decision maker and educator.

I also believe I am well prepared about writing lesson plans and the importance of assessing students.

Spring

I have become a reflective teacher.

I am confident in my abilities as a teacher.

I have a firm understanding of positive behavior approaches to promote learning.

I understand the importance of celebrating diversity in the classroom.

My philosophy of education has been established and I was able to implement it successfully while student teaching.

Well prepared on use of different learning strategies

Well prepared for the working environment

Well prepared in the area of lesson planning

Well prepared in the area of disability law and variety of disabilities


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPECIAL EDUCATION (PATHWAYS)



Summer

Classes have given me valuable information to become a successful teacher.

Books and materials

Teachers were all very motivated and encouraging.

Reflections I created will help me in my classroom.

Mentor always available.

Course work was thorough and I feel confident and ready to teach.

Well prepared not only for special education but general classroom.

Showing me important strategies in differentiation of teaching

Important information dealing with laws

Lesson plans

Education theories

Data collection

Data assessment


Lesson planning

Curriculum development

General teaching methodologies

Reviewing student IEP’s

Assessing data

Creating lesson plans for all learning styles and abilities

Lesson Plan model is a very good way to get future teachers to think about the different knowledge types and what develops a good lesson.

Classes were well taught and thorough.

I liked how the instructors worked or had worked in the field of education and their advice.

Fall

Provided wide variety of classes that related to my degree

Pathway program did a great job preparing me to be an effective, reflective teacher. The program did a great job of teaching me how to plan effective lessons and to differentiate instruction.

also did a great job of providing me opportunities within my classes to do observations, administer assessments and to teach lessons.

When I first signed up for classes I was almost out the door when my advisor spoke with her colleague and realized the traditional program was not for me. I greatly appreciate


the opportunity to work in the field while going through this program. Almost all of my classes were with only Pathways students which allowed us to discuss real examples and experiences with one another. I also believe that working with the students I knew for my field experience allowed for more support from co-workers. This is a very valuable program.

I believe has prepared me well through their extensive lesson plans, I have learned a lot about the different components involved in preparing a great lesson and unit.

I feel has also prepared me well on how to write IEP’s.

I think has prepared me well for what is to come. Spring

Pathways program has prepared me to become a quality educator because of the availability and flexibility to have an on-the-job training. Rather than a traditional 4 year student, I was able to work in the room and used what I learned the very next day. I am very grateful for the opportunity that I had in this program.

has prepared me with hot to prepare, create, and implement lesson plans.

I learned teacher resources and excellent strategies to help students learn.

I learned of assessment, accommodations and modification strategies, and how to incorporate technology in the classroom.

I learned a wealth of information about special needs children and how to recognize and accommodate them.

Professional commitments, academic commitments and conceptual framework.

Basis of instruction, preparing lessons and understanding of disabilities

has done great with preparing me to be the best special educator I can be. They have provided me with numerous resources and colleagues, in order to build my classroom tools. Thank you.

Administering assessments, creating units and lesson plans, behavior management and differentiating instruction


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPEECH/THEATER



Fall

My methods class taught above and beyond what teaching theater was like. Spring

Unit and lesson plans

Content area and methods class

Prepared for culminating project

Placing students’ needs/interests at center of lesson and decisions

Support from former and present teachers

Resume cover letters –


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ART

Indicate an area(s) where you believe could have better prepared

you for the profession. (Asterisks indicate additional people commented on the same

thing.) Fall

Spring

I wish there had been more practicum hours so that I could get better understanding of the logistics of running a classroom. It would have been nice to have exposure to the administrative software to get used to the routine procedure in the classroom. If I had this down before I started student teaching, then I could focus more on the other areas I need to grow in as a teacher.

I wish that my classes were more research or project driven. The combination of these things would have challenged me and made me feel more invested in my education.

I wish that I know more strategies that I could implement in the classroom. I would have felt more engaged in my education if it had been more research based and hands on.

did not put much focus in behavior management outside of situations in an elementary core classroom. Most of the supplemental articles and handouts were purely elementary focused. This was difficult for me, as I am K-12 art.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS EARLY CHILDHOOD



thing.) Fall

Working with parents!

More classroom management: suggestions and ideas, ways to help during different types of distractions, ex: songs, chants, help with those who don’t want to work or stay in control.

One area I believe could have better prepared me in my profession would be to provide more guidance on what to do with the students that are really behind or that are being pulled out all day for services.

Another area I believe that could have better prepared me would be on how to use a Smart Board. I was unsure how to use most features on the Smart Board and many times I was unable to use it for a lesson because I could not figure it out.

The final thing I believe could have better prepared me would be how to assess kindergartners for my culminating project. I had a lot of trouble figuring out how to grade such young students because they don’t receive grades in kindergarten.

Also, I was unsure how assess the students’ knowledge after my unit because so many were pulled for services during my teaching time.

I wish my methods classes focused a bit more on ECE as I felt a majority of the classes discussed methods for elementary and secondary teachers.

Spring

I feel that the only area I could have gained more from would have been in classroom management. While they did give us some tips, I feel that there were many times where I was sort of “lost for words” and I feel that could have offered more practice or situational training for classroom management opportunities.

I wish worked more on helping students feel comfortable enough to “fully takeover”. I was very timid and unsure of my abilities to do this part and wish I had more experience.

More emphasis on classroom management

More emphasis on how to use technology (smartboards)

Hands-on experience was more towards the beginning of my time at rather than at the end.

Common core

I believe that it would have been more helpful to have more experience in classrooms. More practicums would have exposed me to different teaching styles and made more comfortable in the role as a teacher.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ELEMENTARY



thing.) Fall

None

I wish that the MAT program would have offered more time in the classroom prior to student teaching.

Technology and the different computer programs

Areas I believe could have better prepared me for the profession was to be familiar with the Smart Board; and how to use it for teaching students with curriculum.

Spring

Strategies for/regarding classroom and behavior management

More information on technology integration in the classroom

I think that could have better prepared me for this profession by giving more practicum experience where the student is observing in a classroom setting and teaching a few lessons; more real life experience would have helped, along with seeing how the beginning of the year goes in an elementary classroom.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ENGLISH



thing.) Fall

Content specific knowledge. It has been years since I had diagramed a sentence. Could have benefited from reviewing what I was going to be teaching.

Technology – more seminars or classes based solely on the use of technology in the classroom – more hands on experience with it.

I would love to say that prepared me in all areas; however, that is not the case. With the exception of Jane’s class and my “Teaching Middle and Secondary English” course, every other course was so heavily focused on Elementary school, that at times I felt like I wouldn’t be sufficiently prepared for Secondary Education. I understand there are vast amounts of elementary school majors in the program; however, curriculum stresses differentiation. And yet, I saw no differentiation in the majority of the Education classes I took. My behavior management class was focused on Elementary School students, which would have been great if line leaders and Happy Notes were useful when students neglect to come to school or use their cell phones in class. If separate course were available for Secondary and Elementary school students, I would have really appreciated it, that way I would have felt more confident going into my placement.

Spring


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS FACS



thing.) Fall

Spring

When I entered the classroom I realized that there were many situations that the university did not prepare me for: Need for more hands on experience before student teaching, classroom management.

is not teaching Assessment Literacy. This has been an interview question, and when it was asked I was not prepared.

The expectations of the university are not congruent with what is happening in the field.

The culminating project is time consuming, but it is not student centered.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS MATH



thing.) Fall

Implementing classroom management strategies on a daily basis

Implementing differentiated instruction

I felt that I was overly prepared for my student teaching experience. I feel grateful to have felt that way as I was very nervous about the experience. Once I felt more comfortable with the students, I was able to use the skills learned from with confidence. It was challenging and fun to teach the students effective learning strategies.

Spring

As everything is switching to Common Core, I wish that had more time. It was talked about, but I wish it could have been looked at a little more intensely.

I feel like has not effectively prepared me to use technology in the classroom or how to teach “1-1” classroom. Always talk about it and say it is important but little to no strategies given.

My biggest issue with the program was EDU201. I was placed in Middle School History class. This makes very little sense. The first time I was put into a high school math class was during student teaching.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS MIDDLE SCHOOL



thing.) Fall

I am in a unique position in education right now and that is implementing the common core. It was difficult coming into the classroom and trying to implement common core practices when I really didn’t learn much about in course. This is not something that

can control but for the future students, I hope they get more information and practice that I was able to get. The course that I took was all still using the GLE’s and the Standards, which are being phased out in the coming years. So I wish I would have had more practice with the common core in creating and implementing my lessons.

Spring

More knowledge about the certification process and program expectations upon first beginning at

More practicum experience opportunities or teaching opportunities

I would appreciate using a more practical, less extensive lesson plan format…something that teachers actually used day to day.

I would have liked more information in terms of how student teaching would look like. The experience seems to vary, depending on the school district.

There should be more preparation with creating lesson plans. Prior to student teaching I had prepared one lesson plan and had one class on writing objectives. lesson plan is such an in-depth work and there is a high priority to get everything exactly prefect, not leave anything out. I did not feel confident building lesson plans during my student teaching.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SOCIAL SCIENCES



thing.) Fall

Spring


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPECIAL EDUCATION



thing.) Fall

More information on common core, PBIS, Character Ed, all of the things teachers are a part of that isn’t teaching.

I wish the classes were offered in a concise manner. Example – a student in their first semester of education classes would have class from 9-2 MWF. It was very stressful managing the sporadic class schedule.

Cooperative learning strategies

More times in the classrooms for practicums and observations

Letting us know the papers that will be needed for the Final Project Journey essay/Philosophy/Behavior Management

Could have used more strategies for instruction

I believe could have better prepared me about how to write an I.E.P. and the process that it entails. I recommend offering a class that only focuses on writing an I.E.P. and all that is involved in the process.

I feel that I need more content knowledge and more instruction with new technology. *I think overall, you learn more by being in the actual classroom. Strategies and ideas are helpful but when you are put into a situation, you have to act fast!

Spring

I believe that I could have used more knowledge about classroom management to help me start a successful career as an educator.

More classes about writing IEP’s

Less concentration should be on lesson plans/format and more concentration on content and activities to use and how to implement them.

A class on 504 plans would also be helpful.

A course on goal writing and IEP preparation would have been beneficial. We touched on both topics but a whole semester dedicated to goals and IEP’s would have been more helpful.


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPECIAL EDUCATION (PATHWAYS)



thing.) Summer

IEP meeting – perhaps one of the teachers and a group of students could act out an IEP meeting

Nothing

Nothing

I would have liked to have had a class that explained more about the day to day workings of a being a special education teacher such as, working in a co-teaching class and collecting and organizing data on own to teach and break up the curriculum across a semester.

Classes relating to specific subject areas were geared mainly towards elementary school.

More than one class for behavior management – It is something that could be enhanced by asking future teachers to observe/interview current teachers about different method.

More about preparing and amending an IEP. I can compose an IEP, but I still am not 100% comfortable in the whole process.

Fall

I would have liked to see more instruction on IEP process and more real world training on things like EXCEED, CTT.

I would have like to have more experience with MAP-A and other alternative assessments as well as more exposure to the IEP process.

The only issue that came up was learning the responsibility of the teacher over the adults in the room along with the students. In fact, it is sometimes more work over the adults than the students!

I feel ready to be a teacher. I am not worried that I will be unprepared. Spring

I think could better prepare me with providing more organizational strategies and classroom management.

I could have been better prepared to plan a unit of instruction and carry out the daily lessons from it when you don’t have books to get the unit from.

Being accepted into this profession by those who didn’t do well themselves.

Modeling effective techniques

By demonstrating how to create a positive learning environment


By demonstrating a variety of assessment strategies to monitor student learning more effectively

Better use of technology

More focus on autism

More focus on adapting and modifying

Less reliance on lesson plan format

I believe having 100% face-to-face courses would have been a huge benefit to my education.

Some of my transitions were a little rocky and could have been cleaned up.

IEP writing process


STUDENT TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPEECH / THEATER



thing.) Fall

had no idea PTA was coming so they couldn’t have helped. However, I had multiple teachers say “I know nothing about theater”. That was very discouraging. We teach so much about differentiation but I did not feel like an individual learner.

Spring

If there were areas I could have had more preparation would not be on I could/should have taken more education classes—example: Assessment, Differentiated Instruction.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ART

Indicate areas where you believe has prepared your student teacher

well. (Asterisks indicate additional people commented on the same thing.)

Fall

Spring

The student teacher had a course of action, and had an introductory understanding of how to present new material in a systematic, organized manner. In the arts, I believe teachers should have a more developed working idea of how a particular subject matter can be presented, and therefore received by the students in an optimum manner. In other words, I believe art teachers in training should have more studio time in order to learn how to teach the subject. The student in an open, although not always predictable, fashion can then interpret the subject matter. did a good job preparing my student teacher with several different approaches, but it will take time to develop his/her own style.

Emphasis on professionalism

Knowledge of teaching modalities and varied says to check for understanding

Lesson planning and reflection

Knowledge of current pedagogical trends

Content knowledge

Encouraging student learning

Effective communication

Assessment data

Professionalism

I believe has prepared the student teacher by instructing her on the importance of individualized instruction. She seems to have a firm understanding and capability of being able to teacher each student as an individual. She adapts her teaching style to students' individual needs.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS EARLY CHILDHOOD



Fall

Organized

Prepared

Good Lesson plans

Flexible

Positive

Professional

Growth

has prepared the student teacher well in assessing students. She was able to strategize ways to easily assess students at a 5/6 year old-Kindergarten level

Student teacher thoroughly knows how to come up with her own original lesson plans.

Implemented her own curriculum unit in science that was well thought out and very interactive.

Spring

Student seemed to be well prepared in the area of content curriculum. She had a firm understanding of early childhood curriculum, and this was apparent in her planning.

Student had an understanding of the commitment and professionalism the job requires. She was very professional in dress, appearance, and attended events/activities outside the normal school hours.

Student was able to help create/came up with ideas for activities for each theme.

Lesson planning

Child development for early grades

Student was well prepared with theory and background knowledge.

Student had a good transition and was able to take over the class.

Lessons were complete.

has done a great job preparing the student teacher. She has scored thorough in all areas on her observation checklist. She surpassed all of my expectations.

Great knowledge in all content areas

Creates a positive classroom environment

Strives to meet the needs of ALL of the students


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ELEMENTARY



Fall

Writing lesson plans

Building relationships with students

Assessment

Strong content knowledge background

Developed, implemented, and evaluated curriculum based on common core standards and students’ needs.

An effective communicator and has effective working relationships

I don’t know enough about the program to evaluate.

Knowledge of content

Creating a positive learning environment

Sought opportunities for professional growth, asked questions, was reflective

Establishing positive relationships with students and colleagues

Learning goals

Prior experiences before student teaching are beneficial. It gives student teachers experience to build on.

Curriculum – Communication arts, math (GLES) are very familiar to student teachers Spring

Content knowledge and lesson planning

Higher level of thinking

Knowledge of common core standards

Lesson planning

Content knowledge

Instructional strategies

Behavior management

Collaborating with other professionals in the school

Fostering positive relationships with students

Flexibility

Technology in the classroom


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ENGLISH



Fall

Professional and responsible

Highly motivated and showed a deep interest in the students

Quick learner and adapted well to several “Real World” teaching moments

Content knowledge

Familiarity with standards

Understanding of student learning

Spring


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS FACS



Fall

Spring

The student has fast search techniques and easily uses the computer and Internet. She is reflective and understands how to critique, accept criticism, and adapt when change is needed.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS MATH


well. Fall

Content Spring

Knew his content material very well

Was able to reach to a variety of learners

Show the concept in more than one way if a student was having difficulty

Had a great attitude when working with our PLC teams and provided some new insights or suggestions

Overall, a great student teacher

Strong math content knowledge

Able to easily help students with any type of math problem they were given. He does a good job helping students one-on-one, exhibits patience.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS MIDDLE SCHOOL



Fall

It is clear that stresses the importance of thorough lesson plan writing (long-term and daily).

Student teacher clearly understood the value of pre and post assessment via entrance and exit tickets and pre-assessment at the beginning of a new unit.

Spring

This is a difficult question to answer. My student teacher was extremely capable and born a natural teacher. To identify what of this was due to effort is impossible. I will say that my student teacher was fairly well-versed in the nitty-gritty of teaching: IEPs, the role of the administrator, teaming, etc. That, I am sure, is thanks to

I don’t mean to belittle in anyway, just think this is a difficult question to answer.

Instructional strategies

Assessment

Overall, she has been an excellent student teacher. I believe the students enjoyed and learned from this experience.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPECIAL EDUCATION



Fall

Preparation/planning

Organization

Reflection

Respect for all students (diversity)

Positive learning environment

Experience within the field prior to experience

Content knowledge

Self-confidence in the classroom

Ability to be flexible on the spot

Classroom management and behavior strategies

Positive strategies to use in the classroom

Very organized and always prepared

Always reflects on lessons

Good working knowledge of Special Ed law

Very organized from the beginning

Very advanced (proficient) with school technology

Understands the importance of a professional appearance to classroom management

Great knowledge of efficient lesson plans

Understood the importance of understanding the students from the first day

I feel has prepared the student teacher for a career as an educator. Student teacher is very knowledgeable on working with the various needs and ability levels the students have.

All areas – specifically in creating challenging high interest, differentiated, hands-on lessons.

Strategies to use in the classroom

Classroom behavior management

Organizational skills

Reflection on lessons

Adapt the curriculum

Spring

Lesson planning

Gaining student attention

Prepared to handle changes in routine


has more than prepared my student teacher to become an excellent teacher. Knowledgeable in the following areas:

o Special education laws o Multiple strategies o Differentiated instruction o Common Core Standards o Lesson development o Behavior management

Well prepared lesson plan writing

Adapting and reflecting skills: o Constantly monitoring students during and after lessons taught o Knowing whether the students understand or if she needs to alter the lesson and

possibly reteach


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPECIAL EDUCATION (PATHWAYS)



Summer

Well prepared to teach her own class

Aware of curriculum development and need to diversify instruction to meet individual needs

Complete understanding of IEP process and the understanding of the structure behind the goals and objectives

Able to read some goals and easily analyze the effectiveness of the goals- ability to come up with activities to meet the goals

Strong knowledge of content

Ability to differentiate between groups

Ability to assess the students and adjusts his lessons to help meet their needs

Ability to assess and activating the students’ prior knowledge before the lesson to make lesson relevant to their lives

Methodologies - Ability to apply knowledge to instruction

Behavior management

Lesson planning format

Understanding of “GLE’s”

Importance of differentiated instruction – modification


Ability to transition students from one activity to another

Classroom management very strong

Well prepared for class – always ready to go

Understanding modification

Understanding learning targets

Knowledge of “GLE’s”

Differentiation

Student centered and importance of aligning lessons to meet the needs of each individual student

Reading IEP’s carefully - Collecting data to progress monitor and make sure each child received proper services

Organization

Communication with parents

Implementing a variety of behavior plans

Providing classes to prepare student teacher to write and teach lessons appropriate to classroom population

Providing supports to assist student teachers with the process of student teaching


Well prepared

Positive and professional attitude

Positive behavior supports

Lesson plans

Adapting curriculum that is used to teach students with autism

Curriculum and modifications

Professionalism

Providing upfront information and a timeline of events

Providing necessary paperwork for mentor teacher

Fall

Professionalism – student teacher as a good vision.

Academic Commitments – student teacher has a good knowledge of the content she is giving.

Instructional Commitments – student teacher plans for the diversity of the classroom student needs.

Using standards based content curriculum when creating a unit/lesson plan

General background of a variety of subjects (disability awareness, IEP writing and understanding, core curriculum understanding).

Understanding of a variety of differences even within a fairly cohesive group

Best part of the program is that students already work in the field and have a wealth of knowledge based on their first-hand experience.

Very knowledgeable in subject area

Has lots of ideas for differentiated instruction

Capable of meeting students’ needs

Good classroom management

Good ideas for providing accommodations and modifications

Ability to use IEP to design instruction

has prepared the student teacher for designing well structured/organized lesson plans. The lesson plans were always very thought out and prepared her to have all materials and assessments available. I have not incorporated some of the methods in my own planning.

Spring

Extremely well prepared

Very professional and knowledgeable

Creates lessons that were appropriate for all students and made modifications when needed for different learning styles

Planning units/lessons

Writing lesson plans to include all possible parts

Paperwork

Background knowledge


Different methods

Lesson plan creation


Problem solving skills

Data analysis

Components of the lesson plan

Differentiation

Knowledge of state standards, curriculum, programs and assessments

Communication

Engaging students in learning

Good background experience

Shows a lot of positive support and compassion for students

Knows content knowledge for the subjects

Helpful and supportive to the students and teacher

Prepared in the aspects in identifying the key concepts: o Goal setting o Skill (student) o Focus o Objective o Direct Instruction


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPEECH / THEATER



Fall

Subject matter knowledge

Social-interpersonal skills Spring

The student teacher arrived here so well prepared I’m not sure were to begin: o Planned each lesson she taught perfectly in advance o Interacted well with the students and faculty o Sought help when necessary but was also very self-sufficient and independent o Clearly knows a lot about her subject matter. Lesson plan on costume design was

particularly impressive. o Know what is expected of her as a teacher and clearly cannot wait to put it in

practice

Student was prepared to meet all standards. I would highlight his skills in critical thinking and self-assessment, as well as, his skills in professional collaboration. He was a well-rounded student teacher.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ART


your student teacher. (Asterisks indicate additional people commented on the same

thing.) Fall

Spring

Increase studio time in areas in which student teacher will be teaching

Add a seminar that reflects on how students learn

Knowledge of software, such as Infinite Campus or Pinnacle (PinnWeb)

Maybe provide more “practical” experiences for all the politics that goes on in schools.

I believe could have prepared the student teacher better by giving her more time at the elementary level. If she would have had more time she could have observed me longer and not have had to rush through her experience as much.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS EARLY CHILDHOOD



thing.) Fall

Student teacher was prepared for classroom/behavior management, but I could tell she was weaker in this area than other. Perhaps more emphasis on maintaining attention throughout day and strategies to implement taking more of an authoritative role as a student teacher.

Spring

Additional classroom management techniques

Additional training using projectors, smartboards

More classroom management

Longer experience in classroom

Seminar not held during the school day

None

None. I would highly recommend any student to attend education program.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ELEMENTARY



thing.) Fall

Classroom management course

Demonstrate what professionalism in a classroom should look like.

Student engagement

Student needs time to focus on student teaching and learning curriculum. Student unit should be assigned before student teaching, not during.

NA

I think it would be beneficial for the student teaching experience in the regular education setting to be longer than six weeks. While the student teacher was able to jump right in, many student teachers would have difficulty building relationships, learning routines and curriculum in such a short time period.

Understanding of RTI

Use of curriculum based measures

Smart Board technology-basics

Spring

Technology applications and utilization of different programs and websites


Integrating the curriculum

Use of assessment data to drive instruction


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS ENGLISH



thing.) Fall

Too much paperwork; to the point of being a distraction from actual reflection on instruction

Spring


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS FACS



thing.) Fall

Spring

More content knowledge in the family life area and nutrition and wellness areas

There is a disconnect between sheet “F” and the Teacher’s Observation Form. Wording should be similar.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS MATH



thing.) Fall

Day in/Day out responsibilities of teaching

Amount of time, effort, and preparation it takes to be a good teacher

Spring

Getting to know the Common Core Standards a little more and the IL PARCC Assessment (which all teachers are still figuring out)

I do not think student teachers should be leaving once a week for meetings during the school day or have a scheduled mock interview day during student teaching experience.

I also feel there should have been more check-ins with my student teacher before student teaching. The student teacher had no interest in being a teacher when this experience started. Makes it difficult to allow them control in my classroom when I know they don’t want to do this.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS MIDDLE SCHOOL



thing.) Fall

Student teacher clearly understands writing lessons in style, I’m wondering about the value of practicing other styles of writing plans.

Spring

It would be beneficial to offering student teachers a format of unit plans and lesson plans more similar to what real teachers create.

As great as the mock interviews and such are, they sometimes add stress to a student teacher. Maybe a little time management conversation or something to help them realize everything will work out!


Unit planning - theme based

Reflective practitioner

Consider the amount of time required of a cooperating teacher to assist in the teacher program

Consider the value of the cooperating teacher’s time

Inform cooperating teachers more thoroughly of your stipend system and reconsider if this system is adequate

Reconsider the amount of information needed to award said stipend


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SOCIAL SCIENCES



thing.) Fall

Creative (independent) lesson planning

Adapting to unexpected changes Spring


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPECIAL EDUCATION



thing.) Fall

Use of technology

Common core standards/content knowledge

None. Quite frankly I wish all my student teachers were as well prepared. Definitely ready to teach!

More cooperative learning structures

Placement was short and only a few weeks to fully take over

More technology training

Review safety (response to threats)

Content knowledge

Technology

Spring

Behavior management (comes mainly with field experience)

NA

I believe you need to teach your students common core since this is what school districts are following.

More practice writing IEP’s would be helpful for them


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPECIAL EDUCATION (PATHWAYS)



thing.) Summer

Exposure to different IDP’s from different districts

Contact hours should have been longer than 16 half day. Would benefit student teacher to observe teacher in teaching lessons to get a better sense of the students, their levels and how they learn best.

Lessons observed by supervisor and me should have been in more than one subject area. Would have allowed us to assess his teaching across subject areas.

Creating IEP’s

NA

None

Need for in depth look at IEP’s, BIP’s discipline documentation, re-evaluation, etc. Better understanding of how to write appropriate goals for students.

Everything went well.

NA

Encourage them to treat this as a job interview.

Remind them they do work for the district they are completing their student teaching and should remain open-minded about each school’s programming.

Fall

Student teacher should be full semester so student teacher can have a full experience of setting up the class, arranging IEP’s, collaborating with teacher outside of our class, and setting up behavior management.

Lacked knowledge for formal assessments for students with different needs

Possibly – students writing and presenting lessons more often before getting to the end of field experience project. Earlier in course work- this is more valuable than the extensive paper writing that goes on in your program… and others.

Student teacher needs more work on her enthusiasm which I’m not sure can really help with.

Also, organization. Having teachers use lesson plan books to stay organized.

Provide a general checklist as to what mentor teacher should for sure remember to teach/help student teacher with.

Have more classes/meetings to help student teachers organize their final project. Spring


has done a wonderful job preparing the student teacher for the teaching career!

Supervising assistances

All extra parts teacher performs such as meetings, committees

Effectively writing an IEP

Role playing the IEP process

could have better prepared my student teacher by including more weeks/more supervisor support.

I think a longer student teaching experience would be more beneficial to the students at They do too many online courses and the particular student I was working

with could have benefited from a regular classroom situation instead of online.

Professional dress

Communicating with team members

None

Sometimes I felt she could bond and connect with her teacher a little better for communication. She has improved. At times she seemed to distant herself and be independent. At times she gave the impression she wanted to spend time with her peers before and after school instead of using that time to prepare, plan and communicate with the teacher. Overall, she did a good job.


COOPERATING TEACHER RECOMMENDATIONS SPEECH / THEATER



thing.) Fall

Curriculum design Spring

There is none- she is incredible.

Adaptation and change – thinking quickly in the moment and having the ability to change instruction when something is not working.

Documents

UNIVERSITY - Formsite behavior management Content Knowledge Areas for growth More practica (MS and Sec.) Behavior management Working …