As a new member of a professional community, student observers and teachers assume a variety of professional obligations and responsibilities. 

 

Student teachers and observers should fulfill the following responsibilities:

 

At their first opportunity, student teachers and observers should obtain a copy of the Faculty Handbook and acquaint themselves with the procedures, rules, and regulations that apply to the faculty of the school in which they are working.  In addition, student teachers should also familiarize themselves with other official documents (e.g., calendar).

 

In particular, it is expected that student teachers and observers:

• behave as professionals (i.e., in word, action, dress, appearance, etc.)

• exhibit promptness and punctuality in meeting one's responsibilities and obligations

• recognize and act congruently with their new status (i.e., they are not their students' peers)

• seek advice from their cooperating educator and university/program supervisor on a regular and routine basis

For their part, students respect teachers who are honest, well-prepared, consistent, fair, and firm. As student teachers and observers serve as role models for their students, they will exhibit good manners, habits, and behavior, presenting the best possible image to the youth with whom they are working.