The success of this supervised teaching experience depends upon close cooperation among pre-primary through grade twelve teachers and administrators, university personnel, and each student teacher. These cooperative relationships are fostered through the contacts that student teachers, supervising personnel, and administrators
have with one another. Our goal is to assure a successful experience for all participants.

The key person in this experience is the cooperating teacher in the school. This individual brings to life the professional aspects of the teaching experience through a willingness to share expertise with a student teacher, to observe activities planned and introduced by the student, to offer advice regarding effectiveness of teaching and management techniques, and to provide the support that students often need in maintaining their professional and personal well-being during this important period when they are making the transition from student to professional educator.

For information on the creating a successful partnership follow the links below.

Qualifications of Cooperating Teachers PDF

Responsibilities of the Cooperating Teacher PDF | Word

Tips for Successful Cooperating Teachers PDF | Word

Student Teacher's Classroom Responsibility Suggestions PDF | Word

Student Teaching Requirement Checklist PDF | Word

Responsibilities of the University Supervisor PDF | Word

Tips for Successful University Supervisors PDF | Word

In a 2008 Survey, UMM student teachers were asked to describe the university and schools support they had received during their recently completed student teaching experience. Here’s what they appreciated the most—and missed the most if it was missing:

• Frequent feedback 
• Clear communication 
• A blend of positive comments and honest criticism
• Freedom and opportunity to teach and try new things
• An environment that is generally supportive

If you would like to have your student teacher give you feedback during or after student teaching, you might use an Open Ended Evaluation.  You can ask your student teacher to write the answers or you can use the questions as talking points during one of your conferences.  You might have the student teacher complete this as a midterm evaluation at the same time you complete theirs. Please contact UMM teacher education if you have questions or suggestions.