Communication and Scheduling
- Contact mentor teacher as soon as placement is received to set up your schedule (even if you are not beginning immediately).
- When contacting mentor teacher:
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- 1) use school website;
- 2) find mentor teacher's email;
- 3) put your contact information in your email;
- 4) call school only if no response from email.
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- If unable to participate on your scheduled day - contact the school/mentor teacher.
- If circumstances dictate a late arrival - contact the school/mentor teacher.
- Plan your semester schedule and begin your placement as soon as possible - the unexpected will occur.
Project A Professional Demeanor At All Times
- Discuss important and sensitive issues with appropriate individuals at appropriate times and in appropriate places.
- Your course instructor is your key point person.
- You are a role model for your students in your actions, language and appearance.
This Is "Your" Experience
- Avoid focusing your interactions on peers and focus on the students in your classroom and your personal growth.
- Respond positively to opportunities offered by your mentor teacher.
- Be clear on the field experience requirements and share them with your mentor teacher on the onset of the placement.
Mentor teachers graciously volunteer to mentor teacher candidates - a hand written "thank you" note as a gesture of appreciation goes a long way.
This is an investment in your professional development. It is your responsibility to make it the best it can be!