Will I be able to student teach in the school of my choice?
You will be able to choose two districts out of the 35 Houston Area Teacher Center Member Districts. We try and give you your first or second choice. We do not choose schools, this is done by the district coordinator.
How many days are we in school each week?
You are on a public school campus for five days a week from the time that the teachers have to report until the time they leave the building. You will follow the SAME schedule as the SBTE (site based teacher educator). You will be responsible for after school faculty meetings, parent-teacher conferences as well as all professional development sessions.
When does the semester begin and end and what about holidays?
You are no longer on the University of Houston schedule for holidays, you will follow the schedule of your assigned school and district. As for the beginning of student teaching, this varies each semester usually starting the week before the actual semester.
What if I have to be absent?
During QUEST 3 you are required to attend classes at your site based school every day for fourteen weeks. There are no excused absences allowed. If you must miss, it is vital that you contact your SBTE, your supervisor, or anyone else impacted by your absence and provide for them any lesson plans or materials you would have used in any lessons you would have taught. Advance notice of any absence is always preferable so everyone involved can make the necessary alternate plans. If you need to be absent, you must make up any missed days at the end of the semester. If you miss more than 5 days without make-up, you will receive an “I” in student teaching and have to repeat the semester.
Can I work during Student Teaching ?
Students may not work during student teaching unless it is an absolute necessity. You will have the responsibility of a full time teacher with lessons to prepare and materials to grade after school hours. There is no time built in for any other type of work.
I have a family member teaching in a school and I would love to do my student teaching at that school, would this be possible?
Unfortunately, no. Our policy states that no student teacher can participate in student teaching on a campus where there are any family members working in any capacity. I would like to substitute while I am doing student teaching, will this be possible?
Student teachers are not allowed to substitute during student teaching. You will not have the necessary liability and can not be held responsible for a classroom while you are student teaching. There is one exception to this rule and that is on the day that we honor your SBTE with a luncheon. We have permission for you to sub (no pay) for your teacher to attend the luncheon and appreciation day.
What is the dress code?
You need to dress professionally at all times. Student teachers are required to follow the dress code of their individual schools and districts. Our policy goes one step further in that we ask that you do not wear jeans, or tea shirts. This does not give an appropriate impression on young students. Remember, your SBTE already has a job and you are trying to make a good impression. For the most part, use common sense . . . don’t show anything you know that kids shouldn’t see . . . tattoos, piercing, too much skin, objectionable words or pictures, etc.
What tests do I need to take? When do I need to pass them?
In order to be accepted into QUEST 3 you must have successfully passed all Content and Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities Representative Exams. There will be no exceptions, so take your exams before you even apply! |
