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BGSU Perspective on Teacher Preparation Partnership
It is the belief of Bowling Green State University that the preparation of teachers is a shared responsibility of the institutions
of higher education and local pre-K, elementary, middle/junior high and secondary schools. In this spirit of partnership,
the university should provide the basic preparation and instruction in the general education phases of the students’ programs
and in the areas of specialization and professional theory. It should provide also for supervisory and coordinating services
related to the professional laboratory experiences including student teaching/internship. It is the responsibility of the
local schools to provide the laboratory facilities for observation, participation, and student teaching/internship together
with the services of the classroom mentor teachers.
Mutual understanding and respect are key factors in a partnership of this nature. To secure such, it is important that there
be a clear understanding and an acceptance of certain “action” principles. It is paramount that lines of responsibility be
defined in written agreements and that lines of communication be kept open between all personnel involved in the student teaching/internship
program.
Principles Applying to the Cooperating School
1. School systems which are utilized for student teaching/internship should offer their facilities with the full knowledge
and approval of the chief administrative officer and the board of
education.
2. A full explanation of the student teaching/internship arrangements, when understood by the entire teaching staff,
will promote goodwill and the cooperation of all.
3. The selection of enthusiastic, competent, and understanding classroom mentor teachers will
contribute to the success of student teachers/interns.
4. The student teacher/intern should be provided with descriptive statements of school policy, as
they relate to the varied aspects of the school program.
5. The student teacher/intern should be provided the opportunity to see the “whole” school, to
participate in staff activities, and to observe in other subject areas or grade levels.
District Agreements
The College of Education and Human Development has signed agreements with approximately 85 school districts that outline the
cooperative arrangements needed to provide field experiences for pre-service teachers in area classrooms. A copy of the agreement
is provided through the corresponding link.
Field Experience Advisory Council
The Field Experience Advisory Council is comprised of representatives from the EDHD dean’s office, school directors, Director
of Field Experiences, and area school superintendents, assistant superintendents, principals, university mentors and teachers
that meet approximately once a month during the school year. The group serves as an advisory board to discuss field-related
issues, make suggestions and explore new ideas that will positively impact our teacher preparation programs and school relationships.
TB Test Policy
Student teachers/interns do not need to submit evidence to the Office of Research and Field Experiences that they have been
tested for tuberculosis. Exception may be made by an individual district. If so, any student placed in that district will be notified.
Criminal Background Check
A criminal background check (fingerprinting) by the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification (BCI&I) and a FBI
criminal history record check is a requirement for Ohio licensure and for student teaching/internship in most local school
districts. Information is provided with the student teaching/internship assignment packets. All student teachers/interns
should consult the student teacher community site to check on their school district.
Fingerprinting should be done electronically and is available at the Campus Police Department, (419) 372-2346, Monday through
Friday from 9:00 - 11 a.m. and from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Substitute Teaching
Student teachers/interns cannot be used as substitute teachers in the classroom or in school-sponsored non-teaching activities
(ex. playground, cafeteria, recess). The classroom mentor teacher or other specifically designated teacher must be available
for help and guidance at all times.
Corporal Punishment
Most school districts have adopted Board of Education policies which prohibit the use of corporal punishment. A student teacher/intern
is not to administer corporal punishment nor serve as a witness in those districts that still allow this form of discipline.
Strikes, Boycotts, Work Stoppages, Riots
The student teacher/intern must not report for duty or be in or near the assigned school building in the event of strikes,
study days, work stoppages, or riots. The student teacher/intern should report such a situation to the Office of Research
and Field Experiences immediately and follow directions provided by the College.
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