Teacher Education Handbook - College of Education
Transcription
Teacher Education Handbook - College of Education
Texas Christian University College of Education Teacher Education Handbook MessagefromtheDean Dear Students, Teaching to change the world is more than the title of the statue outside the College of Education. It captures the intention of the faculty, staff and students to fulfill the mission of the University, to educate individuals to think and act as ethical leaders and responsible citizens in the global community. As a graduate of our program, you will be prepared to meet the challenges of today’s schools. Your courses and experiences are grounded in theory and research and include extensive field-based experiences in diverse educational settings. The TCU College of Education has prepared educators since 1873. Students enjoy close, personal relationships with professors describing them as “inspirational,” “passionate,” and “rigorous.” You will experience small classes in state-of-the-art classrooms, and have many opportunities to apply what you are learning in schools, museums, and community agencies. Educators from around the state come to our career fairs to hire our graduates describing them as “teachers who have a solid, fieldbased education” and “teachers who demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism.” Get to know your professors. They epitomize the teacher-scholar model embraced by TCU. They are dedicated teachers and productive researchers in their fields of science education, mathematics education, urban education, special education, educational leadership, counseling, literacy and curriculum studies. Be sure to visit our website, and join us on Facebook and Twitter. Welcome to the College of Education! Mary M. Patton, Dean TCU College of Education Student Handbook 2 Updated 2015 by: Sarah Quebec Fuentes, Associate Professor and Middle Secondary Program Coordinator Michelle Bauml, Assistant Professor and EC-6 Program Coordinator Originally Compiled and Edited 2012 by: Ranae Stetson, Associate Professor and Early Childhood Program Coordinator Original Contributors in 2012: Michelle Bauml, Assistant Professor Sarah Quebec Fuentes , Assistant Professor Victoria Reneau, Graduate Assistant Diana Woolsey, Director of Teacher Certification Cindy Williams, Assistant Professor and COE Director of Assessment and Evaluation Dale Young, Director of Student Teaching Original Sources: TCU Undergraduate Catalog Texas Education Agency website Various COE course syllabi TCU College of Education Student Handbook 3 TableofContents MessagefromtheDean.........................................................................................................................................................2 TableofContents...................................................................................................................................................................4 Introduction...........................................................................................................................................................................6 Mission,Vision,Values,andBeliefs.......................................................................................................................................7 Mission...............................................................................................................................................................................7 Vision..................................................................................................................................................................................7 CoreValues........................................................................................................................................................................7 CoreBeliefs........................................................................................................................................................................7 BecomingaTeacherinTexas.................................................................................................................................................9 EducatorSkills:...................................................................................................................................................................9 ProfessionalResponsibilities:.............................................................................................................................................9 StudentExpectations:........................................................................................................................................................9 CollegeofEducationDegreesandMajors...........................................................................................................................10 EarlyChildhoodEducation(GradesEC-6)........................................................................................................................10 MiddleSchoolEducation(Grades4-8).............................................................................................................................10 SecondaryEducation(Grades7-12,exceptPhysicalScience)..........................................................................................10 EducationalStudiesMajor...............................................................................................................................................10 All-levelTeacherCertification(EC-12)..............................................................................................................................10 AdmissiontotheCollegeofEducation................................................................................................................................12 ApplicationDeadlines.......................................................................................................................................................12 AdmissionsCommittee....................................................................................................................................................12 PerformanceMilestones......................................................................................................................................................13 Milestone1:ApplicationforAdmissiontotheCollegeofEducation...............................................................................13 MilestoneII:RetentionintheTeacherEducationProgram&ProgressTowardStudentTeaching.................................13 MilestoneIII:CompletionofStudentTeaching,theTeacherEducationProgram,andDegreeRequirements...............14 AcademicPerformanceandProfessionalismWarning(APPW)...........................................................................................15 FieldExperiences:CandidateResponsibilities......................................................................................................................16 DressCode...........................................................................................................................................................................18 AllStudents......................................................................................................................................................................18 Women.............................................................................................................................................................................18 Men..................................................................................................................................................................................18 AllLevelPhysicalEducation..............................................................................................................................................18 TCU College of Education Student Handbook 4 SpecialOccasionDress.....................................................................................................................................................19 Field-BasedActivitiesandExperiences................................................................................................................................20 Field-basedExperiencesPriortoStudentTeaching:........................................................................................................20 StudentTeaching..............................................................................................................................................................20 MediaandSocialNetworking..............................................................................................................................................21 Cell-PhoneUse.................................................................................................................................................................21 SocialNetworks................................................................................................................................................................21 CertificationandTExES.........................................................................................................................................................22 TExES(TexasExaminationofEducatorStandards)..........................................................................................................22 Pedagogy&ProfessionalResponsibilitiesStandards(EC-12)..............................................................................................23 TexasEducationAgencyProfessionalStandardsandCompetencies:BasisforTeacherEducationCurriculum..............23 StudentTeaching..................................................................................................................................................................24 AdmissionCriteria............................................................................................................................................................24 ApplicationDeadlines.......................................................................................................................................................24 StudentTeaching..............................................................................................................................................................24 LiabilityInsurance.............................................................................................................................................................24 InternationalStudentTeaching........................................................................................................................................25 CareerServicesCenter.....................................................................................................................................................25 Master’sDegreesinEducation.............................................................................................................................................26 AcceleratedMasters:.......................................................................................................................................................26 TraditionalMasterofEducationDegree..........................................................................................................................26 Appendices...........................................................................................................................................................................28 TexasEducators’CodeofEthics......................................................................................................................................29 FamilyEducationalRightsandPrivacyAct......................................................................................................................31 InformedConsentandAssumptionofRisk.....................................................................................................................32 AcademicPerformanceandProfessionalismWarning....................................................................................................33 DefinitionofTerms..........................................................................................................................................................34 HelpfulResources............................................................................................................................................................36 FilingComplaintsandGrievances....................................................................................................................................38 TCU College of Education Student Handbook 5 Introduction Welcome to TCU’s College of Education! The educator certification program at TCU has been carefully designed to prepare exemplary teachers and teaching professionals for Texas public schools. Program curriculum is scientifically-based and aligned with state curriculum standards and Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). As noted in the College of Education mission statement, program focus is on educator effectiveness in diverse educational settings and the preparation of leaders who are “reflective, ethical, innovative, and committed to all learners.” The College of Education teacher education programs provide many opportunities to learn about a chosen field while practicing in diverse public school settings. Candidates will be prepared to implement a positive, equitable, engaging learning environment that establishes rapport with students and their parents. Candidates will learn to model, manage, and motivate in ways that meet the academic needs of all students. Technology will become a comfortable tool for instruction, data management, and research. Throughout the selected program of studies and at the close of the professional program, candidates will be observed performing the duties of their chosen certification area by a TCU faculty or field supervisors who will provide feedback on the candidate’s performance with opportunities for communication, collaboration and reflection. Approaching graduation, candidates will know that they have taken the first steps to becoming the classroom teacher or other school professional they envisioned they could be. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 6 Mission,Vision,Values,andBeliefs Mission The TCU College of Education prepares exemplary leaders for diverse educational settings and related fields who are reflective, ethical, innovative, and committed to all learners. Vision We are committed to preparing individuals who will contribute to the creation of a humane and just society. To accomplish this, the TCU College of Education • Engages students in ethical, responsible, and meaningful scholarship and practice • Fosters community collaboration locally and globally • Expects excellence in all college endeavors. Core Values As professionals and active citizens in our community, we strive to create a humane and just society in which all individuals can develop their full potential. We are governed by an ethical code that documents our obligations to students, colleagues, and the community which includes: • Rationality and objectivity in our professional judgments and actions • Civility and caring in our interactions with others • Encouragement of diverse views on issues of significance to society. Core Beliefs Consistent with the above values, our core beliefs connect a strong foundational knowledge base with professional practice. Professionals in education: • Study and expand the knowledge base of effective practice • Ground their practice in theory and research and acquire expertise through activities in diverse, field-based settings which are exemplars of practice • Promote high student achievement and a passion for learning by: ü Mastering content knowledge and effective pedagogical skills ü Using multiple strategies, resources, and technologies to plan, implement, and assess instruction and to document effectiveness with students ü Synthesizing knowledge from relevant, academically diverse perspectives and a variety of theoretical orientations and approaches. • Provide service and leadership in diverse settings, ranging from local to global communities • Seek to improve professional settings and society • Collaborate with representatives from various groups within and outside the educational community. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 7 Approved by the faculty of the College of Education, November 11, 2011 TCU College of Education Student Handbook 8 BecomingaTeacherinTexas Educator Skills: Prospective teachers in the state of Texas are required to demonstrate skills that educators are required to possess by passing content and pedagogy certification exams: Texas Examinations of Educator Standards, or TExES. The pedagogy certification exam (Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities, EC-12) TExES exam is comprised of four domains: I. Designing instruction and assessment to promote student learning II. Creating a positive, productive classroom environment III. Implementing effective, responsive instruction and assessment. IV. Fulfilling professional roles and responsibilities Similarly, the content certification TExES exams will include domains of learning that are unique to your certification area. For each domain, educator standards are supported by specific competencies. Detailed information about the exams, domains, standards, and competencies for each certification area can be found on the ETS website: http://cms.texes-ets.org/texes/prepmaterials/texes-preparation-manuals/ Professional Responsibilities: Prospective and practicing teachers in Texas are expected to comply with the Educators’ Code of Ethics. Teachers must maintain high standards of professionalism in their daily practices and interactions with co-workers, students, community members, and other stakeholders. A copy of this document is included in the Appendix within this handbook. Student Expectations: The Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) are the state standards that describe what students should know, understand, and be able to do. Teachers have a responsibility to teach to the standards, which represent high expectations for students set by the state of Texas. TEKS for each subject area can be found on the Texas Education Agency’s website, at: http://tea.texas.gov TCU College of Education Student Handbook 9 CollegeofEducationDegreesandMajors The TCU College of Education offers the Bachelor of Science in Education degree with majors in: Early Childhood Education (Grades EC-6) • • • Generalist EC-6 with ESL Option Generalist EC-6 with Special Education Option Generalist EC-6 with Bilingual Option Middle School Education (Grades 4-8) • • • • Language and Literacy Mathematics Science Social Studies Secondary Education (Grades 7-12, except Physical Science) • • • • Life Science Language and Literacy Physical Science (Grades 6-12) Social Studies Educational Studies Major • • • • • • • • • • • • • Mathematics (Grades 7-12) History (Grades 7-12) Languages Other Than English (French, German, Spanish) Business Administration (Grades 6-12) Computer Science (Grades 8-12) Dance (Grades 8-12) Theatre (Grades EC-12) Journalism (Grades 7-12) Communication (Grades 7-12) Biology (Grades 7-12) English (7-12) Chemistry (Grades 7-12) Physics/Mathematics (Grades 7-12) All-level Teacher Certification (EC-12) • • • • Art Music Deaf and Hard of Hearing Physical Education COE students may also earn English as a Second Language (ESL) supplemental certification. See the TCU Undergraduate Catalog for more information. Any TCU student may obtain an Educational Studies Minor through the College of Education. Students who minor in Educational Studies will NOT meet the requirements for teacher certification. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 10 Refer to the TCU Undergraduate Catalog for complete degree plans. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 11 AdmissiontotheCollegeofEducation Admission to TCU and declaration of a major in education are not synonymous with admission to the Teacher Education Program. Students who plan to declare a major or minor in education or who plan to earn a teaching certificate must formally apply for admission to the Teacher Education Program in the College of Education. Eligibility to apply does not ensure admission to the Teacher Education Program. If more applicants are eligible for admission to the program than the College of Education can admit, applicants will be selected based upon their overall record on all criteria. For a list of admissions criteria, refer to the College of Education’s website. Application Deadlines. Students applying for admission to the Teacher Education Program should do so by March 1 for fall admission and October 1 for spring admission. Late applications will be considered on a space-available basis. Prior to admission to the College of Education, students may take a variety of education coursework. Students should refer to the TCU Undergraduate Catalog or see the College of Education’s advisor for specific courses they may enroll in prior to admission. Admissions Committee. The role of the committee members is to review, critique, and vote on each applicant to the COE Teacher Education Program; and to recommend whether the candidate is ready to progress, complete additional criteria, or needs remediation. Each candidate will be notified as to the committee’s decision regarding admission. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 12 PerformanceMilestones The College of Education tracks each candidate’s progress to ensure that the candidate is wellprepared as a highly qualified teacher and the faculty and staff feel confident in recommending the candidate for certification. All materials must be submitted for review by the deadlines set by the College of Education. The candidate’s progress is monitored by the following major checkpoints: Milestone 1: Application for Admission to the College of Education To work toward a degree in teacher education, a candidate must first be admitted into the College of Education. This is a separate step from admission to university. The application for entry into the College of Education and a selected teacher education program is considered the first checkpoint in the program. Deadlines for Admission are March 1 for fall admission and October 1 for spring admission. When applying for admission to the College of Education (and later Benchmarks), the following steps occur: 1. Students submit a formal application with supporting documentation to the COE Director of Certification. 2. The application and supporting documentation is verified by the Director of Certification. 3. The data and application materials of all applicants are reviewed by the COE Admissions Committee. 4. Successful candidates are admitted into the COE and the selected program of study (EC-6, Middle School, or Secondary Education). Milestone II: Retention in the Teacher Education Program & Progress Toward Student Teaching Students who have elected to pursue a degree or major in the College of Education understand that the faculty and staff are dedicated to producing highly qualified and passionate professional educators. In order to achieve that goal, all candidates must: 1. Maintain acceptable academic performance in all content area and education classes. Acceptable academic performance is identified as earning a minimum 2.75 GPA overall and a grade of “C” or better in content area and education courses. 2. Maintain high professional standards. Candidates will be assessed based on their academic achievement AND their professional behavior, attitudes, demeanor, judgment, dependability and reliability throughout their teacher education experiences. 3. Successfully pass the Professional Practice Seminar. 4. Submit an Application for Student Teaching by the appropriate deadlines. Applications for student teaching are due by May 1 for fall student teaching and October 1 for spring student teaching. Additional requirements for Student Teaching include: • Completion of all content area and education coursework with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and no grade lower than a “C”; • A minimum overall TCU GPA of 2.75; and • Successful completion of EDEC/EDMS/EDSE 30001: Professional Practice Seminar. • The Admissions Committee will consider minimum criteria, as well as student performance (professional attitude, demeanor, abilities and preparation) and forward their recommendations to the Director of Student Teaching and the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies. The program faculty and the College of Education dean and/or designee must approve any exception to these student teaching standards. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 13 Milestone III: Completion of Student Teaching, the Teacher Education Program, and Degree Requirements The College of Education is dedicated to student academic success and successful completion and passing state certification exams. Every effort will be made to provide additional instruction and support, if needed, to ensure this success. 1. Final GPA of 2.75 with C or better in education and content area coursework; 2. Pass on all practice exams; 3. Successful completion of the Teacher Education Program, including the student teaching experience; 4. Apply for graduation: conferred bachelor's degree; (see TCU Registrar for specific deadlines); 5. Request approval from the COE Director of Certification to take state certification exams; 6. Register online for TExES certification exams; 7. Passing scores on the required state certification exams TCU College of Education Student Handbook 14 Academic Performance and Professionalism Warning(APPW) Students must maintain acceptable academic performance (a minimum 2.75 GPA overall and a grade of C or better in content area and education courses), as well as high professional standards, in order to advance in the program and to student teaching. The faculty and staff within the College of Education are committed to identifying and intervening to assist students who demonstrate difficulties maintaining expected norms in their academic progress or professionalism. Any faculty member who has a concern about a candidate’s performance and/or professionalism may initiate the Academic Performance and Professionalism Warning (APPW) process. The process operates as follows: 1. The faculty member fills out the APPW form describing the concerns and indicating potential strategies and solutions to resolve the problem(s). 2. A conference between the student and two faculty members is required to complete the APPW form. During the conference, the parties discuss the student's understanding of the concerns and the course of action required to remediate the problem(s). The APPW contract is signed by the student and faculty. If the student fails to respond or attend a conference, faculty will complete the form and notify the student via certified mail. 3. The completed form is submitted to the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies, the student, and the Office of Campus Life. 4. Any student receiving three notices through this process may be considered for dismissal from the College of Education. Except in an unusually severe or critical situation, no one notice will result in dismissal from the college or program. 5. These notices do not become part of a student's permanent academic record held in the registrar’s office. See the Appendix for a copy of the APPW form. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 15 FieldExperiences:CandidateResponsibilities Candidate responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: • Coursework: Complete all stated class requirements with a grade of C or better in all education and content area coursework, including the documentation of completing the required number of field experience hours prior to student teaching. • Professional Behavior: Develop a positive professional reputation within the College of Education, among peers, and with mentor teachers through the field-based experiences. Follow the Texas Educators’ Code of Ethical Behavior. • Absences/Late Arrivals/Leaving Early: Candidates are responsible for notifying their Cooperating Teacher(s) and their TCU professor(s) or supervisors prior to any absence (if possible). Absences may be made-up at the discretion of the Cooperating Teacher and the TCU faculty member or supervisor. Avoid late arrivals and leaving early as they are a disruption to the learning environment. A pattern of absences, late arrivals, and leaving early may negatively impact the candidate’s grades and professional reputation. • Transportation and Meals: Candidates are responsible for their own transportation to and from their field experiences and for all meals while participating in field experiences. • TB Tests and Health Care Expenses: Most schools and school districts require verification of a current negative TB test result for people working or observing in their schools. The TCU Health Center may provide TB testing. Please check with the TCU Health Center for more information. Other health care issues are the sole responsibility of the candidate while participating in field experiences. More specifically, candidates are responsible for any expenses related to personal injuries that may occur during field-based experiences. • Criminal Records Check: The TCU College of Education and most schools and school districts will require students to maintain a current, clear criminal record. Candidates are responsible for completing forms and fees for a criminal records check in a timely manner. Schools and school districts may have differing requirements and most will inform candidates of those requirements. • Termination of Field Experience or Student Teaching: A candidate may be removed from his/her field experience or student teaching at any time upon the request of the building administrator or cooperating teacher(s). Depending on the circumstances, an alternative field experience site may be identified. Removal from a second field experience site may be grounds for dismissal from the program. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 16 TCU education candidates will be assigned to numerous and varied field experiences in accredited public and private school settings. As such, they are a representative of TCU, the College of Education, and responsible for building their own professional reputation. Please follow these expectations during all field experiences: 1. ALWAYS WEAR the TCU College of Education nametag during school placements. This will help the school staff and the candidate get to know one another. TCU name badges can be ordered through the TCU Bookstore. 2. When reporting to the school, candidates should introduce themselves to the office staff. Let them know the nature of the visit, and identify the cooperating teacher or purpose of the placement. 3. Be on time, dependable, and reliable. Work out a schedule for the field placement with the cooperating teacher and maintain this schedule throughout the semester. This may already be set up by the requirements of the professor(s) or the program. 4. Exchange contact information (emails, phone numbers, etc.) with the mentor teacher(s). 5. If candidates must be absent, call and/or email the school, the cooperating teacher, and the professor(s) or supervisors to notify them as far in advance as possible. 6. Professional manner is of utmost importance. Candidates need to begin transforming their identity from, “just a college student” to professional member of the teaching staff. Candidates should look and act accordingly. 7. Give the cooperating teacher the utmost cooperation and respect. Candidates should actively remember to act as a polite guest in the cooperating teacher’s classroom and the school. 8. Follow through and complete all assignments. 9. Accept suggestions for improvement in a positive and professional manner. The cooperating teacher is there to help candidates learn and grow. Remember, experience is a great teacher! 10. Confidentiality is extremely important. Please remember this when conferencing with the cooperating teacher, professors, principals, parents, other teachers, and friends. Breach of confidentiality can cost candidates a job and the opportunity to continue in the profession. In addition, breaching confidentiality can hurt children and families. Professionalism is essential at all times. 11. Do not criticize the school, teachers, or students. Learning opportunities will be abundant, but as a guest in the building. it is expected that candidates will guard what is shared with others. Do not jeopardize the opportunity to complete the field placement. 12. Students will imitate candidates’ oral and written language. Use correct English (or Spanish in appropriate settings) at all times. 13. If there is a problem with any aspect of the assignment, discuss this with the cooperating teacher or the TCU professor/supervisor only. Handle concerns professionally by going directly to those people who have the authority to make adjustments. 14. Absolutely no use of cell phones or accessing social media sites during field assignments. 15. TCU candidates will follow the TCU academic calendar regarding holidays. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 17 DressCode TCU Education candidates have a very positive reputation within the school districts. We want this to continue. Becoming a professional educator begins by looking professional. Please consult the following guidelines for minimum standards of professional dress, grooming, and attire. All Students • • • • • • • Wear the TCU nametag or the school’s ID badge at all times. No jeans (especially with holes, worn-out, ripped styling and frayed hems), overalls, tank top t-shirts, tshirts with advertising or celebratory announcements, and hats. Wear sensible shoes. No flip-flops or very high heels. Some schools do not allow open-toe shoes. Avoid wearing strong colognes, perfumes, and other fragrances as they can be offensive to others. In addition, some students and colleagues may be allergic to them. Cover any tattoos or other body art while in the schools. Remove any facial and/or mouth piercings and excessive ear piercings while in the schools. Wear belts with pants or skirts that have belt-loops. Women • • • • • • Pants must be mid-calf in length or longer. Low-slung pants or hip-huggers exposing the midriff are not permitted. Pants must be high enough to cover the lower back and undergarments when bending over. No yoga (skin tight stretch) pants. Skirts/dresses must be knee length or longer, slits no more than 4” above the knee. Skirts and dresses must allow one to sit/bend over without running the risk of exposure. Spaghetti strap dresses are not permitted, except with a jacket that must not be removed during the day. Clothing should not be suggestive, excessively tight, or revealing. No bare midriffs, sleeveless or low cut tops. If bending over or sitting, others should not be able to see down the shirt or top. No sheer, see-through, or lingerie style clothing. Undergarments should not be visible. Men • • • Slacks, khaki or dress pants and a belt. Low-slung pants, hip-huggers, or “sag” are not permitted. Pants must be high enough to cover the lower back and undergarments when bending over. Shirts with collars. Closed toed shoes only. All Level Physical Education. Check with the cooperating teacher for each school’s dress code for PE teachers and follow that rule. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 18 Special Occasion Dress. From time to time a school will have special or theme dress days. Please follow the cooperating teacher’s suggestion for those days. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 19 Field-BasedActivitiesandExperiences The TCU College of Education pre-service teacher education program is committed to providing teacher education candidates with relevant and research-based pedagogy coupled with intensive and ongoing field-based experiences in a variety of educational settings and with diverse student populations. Field-based Experiences Prior to Student Teaching: You will be in the field (i.e., schools) for a minimum of 30 hours prior to student teaching. Your participation in classrooms may vary each semester, but you can expect to spend time observing, engaging in classroom activities, and teaching lessons. Observing. Some field experiences are primarily developed as observation hours. Observation hours typically involve watching and paying close attention to the children, classroom environment, instructional techniques, classroom routines, and interpersonal relationships. Depending on what the professor expects from this experience, candidates may find it helpful to take detailed notes about the observations and ask questions of the mentor teacher regarding reasons for interactions and instructional methods. “Why” and “How” questions help establish a knowledge base for choosing one’s own methods for both instruction and management. Making a seating chart and quickly learning the names of students helps build relationships and shows an active interest in learning everything possible from the field observation experience. The candidate should use these experiences as opportunities for interaction and reflection of classroom practices and educational activities. Engaging in classroom activities. Your field-based experiences may begin with a few hours of observation time but very shortly thereafter, the candidate should expect more involvement with the students. This may be limited interaction at first, such as monitoring students working at their desks, giving one-on-one assistance, opening/closing activities, attendance, grading, passing out papers or materials, or reading aloud to students. If the candidate is ready and the cooperating teacher agrees, the candidate may teach a few short, prepared lessons to small or large groups of pre-K-12 students. Teaching lessons. After an appropriate amount of observation and interaction in a classroom, the candidate may be ready to assume a greater portion of classroom responsibility. Teaching lessons enables the candidate to assume more responsibility for planning and teaching lessons under the guidance of a cooperating teacher and the university supervisor or professor. Formal lesson plans should be written by the candidate and reviewed by supervisors. Feedback about the lesson plan will increase the likelihood of the candidate’s success in teaching the lesson and K-12 student learning the content. Student Teaching. As defined by TAC §228.2, student (clinical) teaching is a minimum 12-week, full-day or 24-week, half-day educator assignment through an educator preparation program at a public school accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) or other school approved by the TEA for this purpose that may lead to completion of a standard certificate. Student teaching at TCU is offered only during the fall and spring semesters. Please see the Student-Clinical Teacher, Cooperating Teacher, and University Supervisor Handbook for more detailed information. (The 12 week clinical teaching period is calculated by the day; therefore, students must complete at least 60 days in the field. Clinical teachers will follow the district calendar with respect to start dates, holidays, and breaks. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 20 MediaandSocialNetworking Cell-Phone Use. Please be polite and REFRAIN from using cell phones (text messaging, etc.) during class and absolutely no use of cell phones during field assignments. It is expected that students in the College of Education will have the maturity to avoid accessing social networking sites such as Facebook or other non-course related internet usage during class or field assignments. All students are expected to follow rules of common courtesy in all email messages, threaded discussions, and chats. The same rules apply online as they do in person. Be respectful of others at all times. Please take a moment and read the following link concerning "netiquette". http://www.albion.com/netiquette/ Social Networks. It is never appropriate to establish intimate, personal relationships or out-of-school friendships with K-12 students in field-based settings. This includes “friending” them on social networking sites such as Facebook, Linkedin, MySpace, etc. The TCU College of Education strictly follows the TCU Student Handbook and the Texas Education Agency Ethics for Educators’ Guidelines. The TCU Student Handbook (2012-2013) states: Students often choose to participate in online forums including social networking sites, virtual communities, blogs, online journals, and other websites (familiar examples of this type of forum include Facebook, MySpace, Xanga, and Friendster). While the university recognizes that these forums are an integral part of modern communication, we caution students to consider carefully the information and comments they post in online forums. For their own safety and success, students should assume that any information they publish online is visible and accessible to everyone. Students are as responsible for their words and actions in online forums as they are in any interpersonal interaction, private forum, or public forum. Behavior inconsistent with the university’s mission, community standards, or Code of Student Conduct will not be exempted from disciplinary action simply because it occurred or originated in an online forum (p. 11). TCU education students should avoid any question of inappropriate relationships with students by using sound judgment, common sense, and caution when accessing or using any type of electronic communication or social media sites. In particular, COE students need to be mindful they: 1. Do not breach student confidentiality and privacy rights. 2. Do not post photographs or other identifying information featuring students in any type of electronic forum. 3. Do not expect privacy with anything posted on the internet or social media sites; even those with privacy settings. Organizations can, and often do, change privacy settings and policies. 4. Do not post inappropriate photos as this may affect job searches and hiring preferences. Keep this standard in mind, “If a particular type of behavior is inappropriate in the classroom or a professional workplace, then that behavior is also inappropriate on the professional social media site.” (New York City Department of Education Social Media Guidelines, Spring 2012, n.p.) . TCU College of Education Student Handbook 21 CertificationandTExES TExES (Texas Examination of Educator Standards). At TCU, to be eligible to take the TExES certification exams for initial teacher certification, candidates must pass the practice representative exams with 80% accuracy, which are offered during the Professional Practice Seminar, a requirement of the undergraduate degree plan. Upon passing the appropriate practice exam, the Director of Teacher Certification will release a student to test in the online TEA system, and will send the student instructions for registration in the TEA/ETS online systems. It is strongly recommended that students test at the earliest possibility upon being released to test. Candidates who do not pass these practice exams must present acceptable evidence of test preparation before the exam will be re-administered. A candidate who receives no credit in the Professional Practice Seminar is not considered a program completer and the Director of Certification will not release the candidate to take the TExES certification exams. The College of Education is dedicated to student success on state exams. Every effort will be made to provide additional instruction and support, if needed, to ensure this success. Students who fail to take the appropriate TExES exam within three years of program completion must present documentation of completion of TExES review or additional coursework prior to receiving permission to test. The practice test may be given again. There is a 5-time limit on taking a single certification exam. Any tester who has attempted a test (regardless of how many attempts before August 31, 2015) may test up to four more times after September 1, 2015. Additional attempts would require SBEC permission. After graduation, and upon completion of the following requirements, the Director of Certification will recommend the candidate for teacher certification to the state of Texas: • • • • Successful completion of the Teacher Education Program, including the student teaching experience, Final GPA of 2.75 with C or better in education and content area coursework, Conferred bachelor's degree, and Passing scores on the required state certification exams. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 22 Pedagogy&ProfessionalResponsibilities Standards(EC-12) Texas Education Agency Professional Standards and Competencies: Basis for Teacher Education Curriculum TCU COE teacher education students are prepared to meet criteria on the state standards for new teachers set by the Texas Education Agency and the State Board for Educator Certification. These standards are found on the TEA website: www.tea.texas.gov. All teacher education candidates must meet these standards to be recommended for certification. Standard I: The teacher designs instruction appropriate for all students that reflects an understanding of relevant content and is based on continuous and appropriate assessment. Standard II: The teacher creates a classroom environment of respect and rapport that fosters a positive climate for learning, equity, and excellence. Standard III: The teacher promotes student learning by providing responsive instruction that makes use of effective communication techniques, instructional strategies that actively engage students in the learning process, and timely, high-quality feedback. Standard IV: The teacher fulfills professional roles and responsibilities and adheres to legal and ethical requirements of the profession. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 23 StudentTeaching Admission Criteria. Any candidate who wishes to be considered for admission to student teaching must meet the following requirements: • Completion of all content area and education coursework with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and no grade lower than a C; • A minimum overall TCU GPA of 2.75; and • Successful completion of EDEC/EDMS/EDSE 30001: Professional Practice Seminar. • Professionalism in attitude, demeanor, ability, and preparation. Application Deadlines. Refer to the COE website for application deadlines. Student Teaching. Student teaching is considered full-time enrollment (or similar to a full-time job—without pay). Because of October this full-time status, candidates should try to complete all the program coursework and must pass the Professional Practice 1 Seminar before student teaching. Depending on the program of study, the candidate may have one or more student teaching placements (e.g., EC-6, international student teaching, all level certification, dual content areas of study, etc.). After a gradual build-up of assuming classroom responsibilities, student teachers should be able to assume the full responsibility of planning and teaching for the whole school day as though he/she were the classroom teacher. During this time, the cooperating teacher and university supervisor will conduct periodic evaluations and consultations with the candidate. The full-time teaching experience is usually followed by a gradual return of the cooperating teacher to the classroom duties. All candidates are expected to remain involved and fully engaged in the classroom until the completion of the student teaching semester. Refer to the Clinical (Student) Teaching Handbook on the COE website for more details. 1 Liability Insurance. As students enter public and private schools for observations, tutoring, after school programs and student teaching, it is important to be covered by liability insurance. Under Texas law, both the TCU student (candidate) and teacher can be held responsible for a child's injury. For this reason, we strongly suggest TCU teacher education candidates be covered with liability insurance. This insurance is offered at low cost to teachers-in-training who belong to a teacher organization. Candidates can become members of the TCU chapter of the Texas Student Education Association (TSTA-NEA), which covers liability insurance, costs of an attorney and costs for TCU College of Education Student Handbook 24 defending claims. Other teacher organizations in the state, such as ATPE, UEA and AFT, offer similar coverage. International Student Teaching. Expanding international education for students is a major emphasis at TCU. The College of Education is dedicated to ensuring that candidates have many opportunities for international experiences. These international experiences increase understanding of other cultures, helping students become better teachers and better citizens. Students in the College of Education can participate in the many Study Abroad programs at TCU or experience student teaching in one of many countries. The College of Education is a member of the European Teacher Education Network that includes teacher preparation institutions from many European countries. After the international student teaching experience, candidates will still need to complete 60 days of full-time student teaching in an approved TEA site to fulfill certification requirements. See the Director of Student Teaching for more specific information, application criteria and deadlines, and further guidelines. Career Services Center. The Career Services Center maintains contact with public and private schools seeking teachers, school counselors, administrators and other types of educational personnel. Registration with the center entitles candidates to file a summary of their academic records together with requested recommendations from teachers and others acquainted with their qualifications. Former students may use the center in seeking positions. The center provides oncampus interviews with school districts in Texas, as well as outside the state. More than 95 school districts conduct interviews on campus each year. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 25 Master’sDegreesinEducation The College of Education offers Master of Education degrees via two routes: an expedited Accelerated Master’s Program and the traditional delivery system. Accelerated Masters: Available only to TCU undergraduates, the Accelerated Master’s program allows outstanding students to combine a bachelor's degree with the Master of Education (M.Ed.) in five years. Only candidates demonstrating superior undergraduate academic and professional performance with strong recommendations are considered for admission to the Accelerated Masters program. Students are eligible to apply for admission to the graduate program in the College of Education during the semester they complete 90 hours of undergraduate coursework. To be considered for admission to the Accelerated Master’s option students must: • Submit a Graduate Program Application for admission; • Fulfill admission requirements; • Be admitted into the Teacher Education Program; and • Complete additional hours for certification if fulfilling a minor in education. If admitted to the Accelerated Master’s program, students may complete up to 12 semester hours of the M.Ed. program during their fourth year of undergraduate study. Students should work with their advisor to determine how the courses will apply to the undergraduate degree. At the end of the fourth year, assuming that all other graduation requirements are met, students earn the baccalaureate degree. During their fifth year, students complete the remaining semester hours toward the M.Ed. degree. Accelerated Master’s M.Ed. degrees are offered in Special Education, or in Curriculum and Instruction with specializations in: • • • • Curriculum Studies Language & Literacy Mathematics Education (not approved by Graduate Council yet, so maybe should not list) Science Education Traditional Master of Education Degree. The College of Education offers Master of Education degrees with majors in: • Counseling • Curriculum and Instruction o Curriculum Studies o Language & Literacy o Mathematics Education o Science Education • Educational Leadership • Special Education TCU College of Education Student Handbook 26 Please consult the TCU Graduate Bulletin for more specific information and consult with an advisor within the College of Education for updates and important program information. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 27 Appendices Ethics Statement Students sign this form prior to admission to the COE or as part of the admissions application. FERPA Waiver Students sign this form as part of the admissions application and prior to student teaching. Assumption of Risk Form Each semester, all students involved in courses which require field trips, observations, practicums, student teaching, or any other type of activity that necessitates students leaving the TCU campus are required to complete the Informed Consent and Assumption of Risk form. The forms are maintained in the Dean’s Office for one year. Academic Performance & Professionalism Warning Form Definition of Terms Helpful Resources TCU College of Education Student Handbook 28 TexasEducators’CodeofEthics TAC Title 19, Part 7, Chapter 247: RULE §247.1 states: The Texas educator shall comply with standard practices and ethical conduct toward students, professional colleagues, school officials, parents, and members of the community and shall safeguard academic freedom. The Texas educator, in maintaining the dignity of the profession, shall respect and obey the law, demonstrate personal integrity, and exemplify honesty and good moral character. The Texas educator, in exemplifying ethical relations with colleagues, shall extend just and equitable treatment to all members of the profession. The Texas educator, in accepting a position of public trust, shall measure success by the progress of each student toward realization of his or her potential as an effective citizen. The Texas educator, in fulfilling responsibilities in the community, shall cooperate with parents and others to improve the public schools of the community. This chapter shall apply to educators and candidates for certification. Enforceable Standards. (1) Professional Ethical Conduct, Practices and Performance. (A) Standard 1.1. The educator shall not intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly engage in deceptive practices regarding official policies of the school district, educational institution, educator preparation program, the Texas Education Agency, or the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) and its certification process. (B) Standard 1.2. The educator shall not knowingly misappropriate, divert, or use monies, personnel, property, or equipment committed to his or her charge for personal gain or advantage. (C) Standard 1.3. The educator shall not submit fraudulent requests for reimbursement, expenses, or pay. (D) Standard 1.4. The educator shall not use institutional or professional privileges for personal or partisan advantage. (E) Standard 1.5. The educator shall neither accept nor offer gratuities, gifts, or favors that impair professional judgment or to obtain special advantage. This standard shall not restrict the acceptance of gifts or tokens offered and accepted openly from students, parents of students, or other persons or organizations in recognition or appreciation of service. (F) Standard 1.6. The educator shall not falsify records, or direct or coerce others to do so. (G) Standard 1.7. The educator shall comply with state regulations, written local school board policies, and other state and federal laws. (H) Standard 1.8. The educator shall apply for, accept, offer, or assign a position or a responsibility on the basis of professional qualifications. (I) Standard 1.9. The educator shall not make threats of violence against school district employees, school board members, students, or parents of students. (J) Standard 1.10. The educator shall be of good moral character and be worthy to instruct or supervise the youth of this state. (K) Standard 1.11. The educator shall not intentionally or knowingly misrepresent his or her employment history, criminal history, and/or disciplinary record when applying for subsequent employment. (L) Standard 1.12. The educator shall refrain from the illegal use or distribution of controlled substances and/or abuse of prescription drugs and toxic inhalants. (M) Standard 1.13. The educator shall not consume alcoholic beverages on school property or during school activities when students are present. (2) Ethical Conduct Toward Professional Colleagues. (A) Standard 2.1. The educator shall not reveal confidential health or personnel information concerning colleagues unless disclosure serves lawful professional purposes or is required by law. (B) Standard 2.2. The educator shall not harm others by knowingly making false statements about a colleague or the school system. (C) Standard 2.3. The educator shall adhere to written local school board policies and state and federal laws regarding the hiring, evaluation, and dismissal of personnel. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 29 (D) Standard 2.4. The educator shall not interfere with a colleague's exercise of political, professional, or citizenship rights and responsibilities. (E) Standard 2.5. The educator shall not discriminate against or coerce a colleague on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, disability, family status, or sexual orientation. (F) Standard 2.6. The educator shall not use coercive means or promise of special treatment in order to influence professional decisions or colleagues. (G) Standard 2.7. The educator shall not retaliate against any individual who has filed a complaint with the SBEC or who provides information for a disciplinary investigation or proceeding under this chapter. (3) Ethical Conduct Toward Students. (A) Standard 3.1. The educator shall not reveal confidential information concerning students unless disclosure serves lawful professional purposes or is required by law. (B) Standard 3.2. The educator shall not intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly treat a student or minor in a manner that adversely affects or endangers the learning, physical health, mental health, or safety of the student or minor. (C) Standard 3.3. The educator shall not intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly misrepresent facts regarding a student. (D) Standard 3.4. The educator shall not exclude a student from participation in a program, deny benefits to a student, or grant an advantage to a student on the basis of race, color, gender, disability, national origin, religion, family status, or sexual orientation. (E) Standard 3.5. The educator shall not intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly engage in physical mistreatment, neglect, or abuse of a student or minor. (F) Standard 3.6. The educator shall not solicit or engage in sexual conduct or a romantic relationship with a student or minor. (G) Standard 3.7. The educator shall not furnish alcohol or illegal/unauthorized drugs to any person under 21 years of age unless the educator is a parent or guardian of that child or knowingly allow any person under 21 years of age unless the educator is a parent or guardian of that child to consume alcohol or illegal/unauthorized drugs in the presence of the educator. (H) Standard 3.8. The educator shall maintain appropriate professional educator-student relationships and boundaries based on a reasonably prudent educator standard. (I) Standard 3.9. The educator shall refrain from inappropriate communication with a student or minor, including, but not limited to, electronic communication such as cell phone, text messaging, email, instant messaging, blogging, or other social network communication. Factors that may be considered in assessing whether the communication is inappropriate include, but are not limited to: (i) the nature, purpose, timing, and amount of the communication; (ii) the subject matter of the communication; (iii) whether the communication was made openly or the educator attempted to conceal the communication; (iv) whether the communication could be reasonably interpreted as soliciting sexual contact or a romantic relationship; (v) whether the communication was sexually explicit; and (vi) whether the communication involved discussion(s) of the physical or sexual attractiveness or the sexual history, activities, preferences, or fantasies of either the educator or the student. Source Note: The provisions of this Texas Administrative Code §247.2 were adopted to be effective March 1, 1998, 23 TexReg 1022; amended to be effective August 22, 2002, 27 TexReg 7530; amended to be effective December 26, 2010, 35 TexReg 11242. I have read the above Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators and I agree to comply and commit myself to these practices, accepting the public trust of being an ethical educator. ___________________________________________ Signature of Candidate ___________________________________________ TCU ID Number TCU College of Education _____________________________________ Date _____________________________________ Email Student Handbook 30 FamilyEducationalRightsandPrivacyAct FERPA Consent to Release Educational Records and Information This release represents your written consent to permit Texas Christian University, College of Education to disclose educational records (as noted below) and any information contained therein to the school and other agency officials with legitimate educational interests. Further, without such a release, I am unable to participate in any field-based experiences including hours of observation, clinical teaching, practicums, student teaching, or internships. This consent covers the entire student career at TCU unless revoked in writing by the student. Please read this document carefully and fill in all blanks. I, ______________________________________________________ [print full name] am a candidate at Texas Christian University, College of Education and hereby give my voluntary consent: A. To disclose the following records: • Records relating to any of my field-based experiences • Records relating to my performance in the field • TExES test score results in aggregate B. To the following person(s): • School districts or other agencies associated with field-based experiences • School-based/Agency-based administrators • School-based/Agency-based cooperating teachers/mentors • Program faculty C. These records are being released for the purpose of: • Conversing and reviewing performance • Acquiring feedback • Procuring required signatures I understand that under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (“FERPA” 20 USC 123g; 34 CFR §99; commonly known as the “Buckley Amendment”) no disclosure of my records can be made without my written consent unless otherwise provided for in legal statutes and judicial decisions. I also understand that I may revoke this consent at any time (via written request to the TCU College of Education and the TCU Registrar’s Office) except to the extent that action has already been taken upon this release. ______________________________________________ Signature of Candidate ______________________________________________ TCU ID Number TCU College of Education Student Handbook _____________________________________ Date _____________________________________ Email 31 InformedConsentandAssumptionofRisk TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY INFORMED CONSENT AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK IMPORTANT – READ ENTIRE AGREEMENT BEFORE SIGNING Texas Christian University is a non-profit educational institution. References to Texas Christian University include “TCU”, its trustees, officers, officials, employees, volunteers, students, agents, and assigns. I (print your name)___________________________________________________ understand I am to participate in the __________________________________ (henceforth referred to as the Program). I fully understand and appreciate the dangers, hazards and risks inherent in participating in the Program, in the transportation to and from the Program, and in any independent research or activities I undertake as an adjunct to the Program. I agree that participating in any activity is an acceptance of some risk of injury and/or loss or damage of property. I agree that my safety is primarily dependent upon my taking proper care of myself. I understand that is my responsibility to know what I will need for the Program and to provide what I will need. I agree to make sure that I know how to safely participate in any activities, and I agree to observe any rules and practices, which may be employed to minimize the risk of injury. I agree to stop and seek assistance if I do not believe I can safely continue any activity. I will not wear or use or do anything that would pose a hazard to myself, or others, including using or ingesting any substance which could pose a hazard to myself or others. I agree that if I do not act in accordance with this agreement, I may not be permitted to continue to participate in the Program. In consideration of my participation in this Program, I agree as follows: SPECIFIC HAZARDS OF TRAVEL OR PROGRAM: Despite precautions, accidents and injuries can occur. I understand that traveling, doing fieldwork or being in a large city may be potentially dangerous and that I may be injured and/or lose or damage personal property as a result of participation in the Program. Therefore, I ASSUME ALL RISKS RELATED TO THE ACTIVITIES including, but not limited to: • Death, injury or illness from accidents of any nature whatsoever, including, but not limited to, bodily injury of any nature, whether severe or not, which may occur as a result of participating in an activity or contact with physical surroundings or other persons; arising from travel by car, bus or any other means; death injury or illness including food poisoning arising from the provision of food or beverage by restaurants or other service providers. • Theft, loss or damage of my personal property while in transit or participating in the Program. • Natural disaster or other disturbances, and alteration or cancellation of the Program due to such causes. • Most trips to hospitals, schools and community service centers require travel through or parking in high crime areas. Please review the attached safety guidelines. • Listed below are specific dangers endemic in this Program’s area of travel or endemic to the Program. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS: I understand that TCU is not an agent of, and has no responsibility for, any third party which may provide any services including food, lodging, travel, or other goods or services associated with the Program. I understand that TCU may provide these services only as a convenience to participants and that accordingly, TCU accepts no responsibility, in whole or in part, for delays, loss, damage or injury to persons or property whatsoever, caused to me or others prior to departure, while traveling or while staying in designated lodging. I further understand that TCU is not responsible for matters that are beyond its control. I acknowledge that TCU reserves the right to cancel the trip without penalty or to make any modifications to the itinerary and/or academic program as deemed necessary by TCU. INDEPENDENT ACTIVITY: I understand that TCU is not responsible for any loss or damage I may suffer when I am traveling independently or I am otherwise separated or absent from any TCU activity. In addition, I understand that any travel that I do independently on my own before or after the TCU sponsored Program is entirely at my own expense and risk. HEALTH AND SAFETY: I have been advised to consult with a medical doctor with regard to my personal medical needs. I state that there are no health-related reasons or problems that preclude or restrict my participation in this Program. I have obtained the required immunizations, if any. I recognize that TCU is not obligated to attend to any of my medical or medication needs, and I assume all risk and responsibility. I agree to pay all expenses relating thereto. TCU RULES, REGULATIONS AND POLICIES: I agree to obey and comply at all times with all of the rules, regulations, codes and policies of TCU while participating in the Program. I agree to notify my professor immediately of any injury or loss. TRAVEL CHANGES: If I become separated from the Program group, fail to meet a departure airplane, bus, or train, or become sick or injured, I will, to a reasonable extent, and at my own expense seek out, contact, and reach the Program group at its next available destination. SIGNATURE: I indicate that by my signature below that I have read the terms and conditions of participation and agree to abide by them. I have carefully read this Informed Consent and Assumption of Risk Form and acknowledge that I understand it. My signature below indicates that I have read and freely signed this agreement, which take effect as a sealed instrument. ________________________________ ______________________ Signature of Program Participant Date ________________________________ ______________________ Signature of Parent or Legal Guardian (if minor) Date TCU College of Education Student Handbook 32 Academic Performance and Professionalism Warning COLLEGE OF EDUCATION Academic Performance and Professionalism Warning This form must be completed and signed by the student, faculty and the Associate Dean. See current TCU Undergraduate or Graduate Catalog for additional requirements. Student Name:__________________________________ TCU ID #______________________ Major:_________________________________________ Minor/Specialization_____________ Faculty Concerns: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Potential Strategies and Solutions: ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Strategies and Solutions should be completed by (date): ______________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Student Signature Date ______________________________________________________________________________ Faculty Signature Date ______________________________________________________________________________ Faculty Signature Date ______________________________________________________________________________ Faculty Signature Date ______________________________________________________________________________ Associate Dean’s Signature Date Please return completed form to the office of the Associate Dean - Bailey Building 201 Cc: Campus Life TCU College of Education Student Handbook 33 DefinitionofTerms The TCU College of Education follows the Texas Administrative Code, Rule 229.2 for definitions of the requirements for educator preparation programs. §TAC 229.2 states: The following words and terms, when used in this chapter, shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. (1) Academic year--If not referring to the academic year of a particular public, private, or charter school or institution of higher education, September 1 through August 31. (2) ACT®--The college entrance examination from ACT®. (3) Administrator--For purposes of the surveys and information required by this chapter, an educator whose certification would entitle him or her to be assigned as a principal or assistant principal in Texas, whether or not he or she is currently working in such an assignment. (4) Alternative certification program--An approved educator preparation program, delivered by entities described in §228.20(a) of this title (relating to Governance of Educator Preparation Programs), specifically designed as an alternative to a traditional undergraduate certification program, for individuals already holding at least a bachelor's degree. (5) Beginning teacher--For purposes of this chapter, a classroom teacher with less than three years experience. (6) Campus-based mentor--A certified educator assigned by the campus administrator who has completed mentor training; who guides, assists, and supports the beginning teacher; and who reports the beginning teacher's progress to that teacher's educator preparation program. (7) Candidate--An individual who has been admitted into an educator preparation program, including an individual who has been accepted on a contingency basis; also referred to as an enrollee or participant. (8) Certification field--Academic or career and technical content fields, special education fields, specializations, or professional fields in which an entity is approved to offer certification. (9) Clinical teaching--A minimum 12-week, full-day or 24-week, half-day educator assignment through an educator preparation program at a public school accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) or other school approved by the TEA for this purpose that may lead to completion of a standard certificate; also referred to as student teaching. (10) Completer--According to the Higher Education Act, "A person who has met all the requirements of a state-approved educator preparation program." The term completer is no longer used to define the class of educator preparation program candidates subject to a determination of certification examination pass rate. (11) Consecutively measured years--Consecutive years for which a group's performance is measured, excluding years in which the small group exception applies, in accordance with §229.4(g) of this title (relating to Determination of Accreditation Status). (12) Cooperating teacher--The campus-based mentor teacher for the clinical teacher. (13) Demographic group--Male and female, as to gender; the aggregate reporting categories established by the Higher Education Act, as to race and ethnicity. Each educator preparation program will assign a candidate to one gender demographic group and at least one Higher Education Act-established race or ethnicity group. (14) Educator preparation program--An entity that must be approved by the State Board for Educator Certification to recommend candidates in one or more educator certification fields. (15) Educator preparation program data--Data elements reported to meet requirements under the Texas Education Code, §21.045(b). TCU College of Education Student Handbook 34 (16) Examination--An examination or other test required by statute or any other State Board for Educator Certification rule codified in the Texas Administrative Code, Title 19, Part 7, that governs an individual's admission to an educator preparation program, certification as an educator, continuation as an educator, or advancement as an educator. (17) Field supervisor--A currently certified educator, hired by the educator preparation program, who preferably has advanced credentials, to observe candidates, monitor their performance, and provide constructive feedback to improve their effectiveness as educators. A campus mentor or cooperating teacher, assigned as required by §228.35(e) of this title (relating to Preparation Program Coursework and/or Training), may not also serve as a field supervisor. (18) First year in the classroom--For purposes of the Texas Education Code, §21.045(a)(4), and its implementation in this chapter, the first year of employment as a classroom teacher. (19) GPA--Grade point average. (20) GRE®--Graduate Record Examinations®. (21) Higher Education Act--Federal legislation consisting of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 United States Code, §1070 et seq.) and its subsequent amendments, which requires reports of educator preparation program performance data. (22) Institutional report--Educator preparation program data reported to the United States Department of Education and the Texas Education Agency as required under the Higher Education Act. (23) Internship--A supervised, full-time educator assignment for one full school year at a public school accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) or other school approved by the TEA for this purpose that may lead to completion of a standard certificate. (24) Pass rate--For each academic year, the percent of tests passed by candidates who have finished all educator preparation program requirements for coursework; training; and internship, clinical teaching, or practicum by the end of that academic year. For purposes of determining the pass rate, candidates shall not be excluded because the candidate has not been recommended for certification, has not passed a certification examination, or is not considered a "completer" for purposes of the Higher Education Act or other applicable law. The pass rate is based solely on the examinations required to obtain certification in the field(s) for which the candidate serves his or her internship, clinical teaching, or practicum. Examinations not required for certification in that field or fields, whether taken before or after admission to an educator preparation program, are not included. The rate reflects a candidate's success only on the last attempt made on the examination by the end of the academic year in which the candidate finishes the coursework; training; and internship, clinical teaching, or practicum program requirements, and does not reflect any attempts made after that year. The formula for calculation of pass rate is the number of successful (i.e., passing) last attempts made by candidates who have finished the specified educator preparation program requirements divided by the total number of last attempts made by those candidates. (25) Practicum--A supervised professional educator assignment at a public school accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) or other school approved by the TEA for this purpose that is in a school setting in the particular field for which a professional certificate is sought such as superintendent, principal, school counselor, school librarian, educational diagnostician, reading specialist, and/or master teacher. (26) SAT®--The college entrance examination from the College Board. (27) Scaled score--A conversion of a candidate's raw score on an examination or a version of the examination to a common scale that allows for a numerical comparison between candidates. (28) Texas Education Agency staff--Staff of the Texas Education Agency assigned by the commissioner of education to perform the State Board for Educator Certification's administrative functions and services. Source Note: The provisions of this §229.2 adopted to be effective April 18, 2010, 35 TexReg 2849; amended to be effective October 26, 2014, 39 TexReg 8395 TCU College of Education Student Handbook 35 HelpfulResources Texas Education Agency 1701 N. Congress Avenue Austin, Texas 78701 (512) 463-9734 Texas Education Agency State Board for Educator Certification 1701 N. Congress Ave. WBT 5-100 Austin, Texas 78701 512-463-8762 (fax) State Board for Educator Certification TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills): Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) TExES Standards, Domains, & Competencies: TExES Standards, Domains, & Competencies Pearson LearningStudio (eCollege): TCU Online Resources: Pearson Learning Studio (eCollege). Turn-it-in: Turnitin Grammar Check: Grammar Check APA Style Checklist: APA Style Checklist APA Tutorial: APA Tutorial TCU Writing Center: TCU Writing Center Texas Educators’ Code of Ethics: Texas Educators' Code of Ethics Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 6th edition General APA Guidelines Papers should be typed and double-spaced with 1-inch margins on all sides. Font should be Times New Roman or something similar and 10-12 pt. References • Alphabetize references by author surnames and use a hanging indent of five spaces. • DO NOT capitalize titles of articles aside from the first letter of the first word. DO capitalize journal titles. Books Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (Year of publication). Title of work: Capital letter also for subtitle. Location: Publisher. Cleary, B. (1995). Ramona the brave. New York, NY: HarperCollins. Articles in Periodicals Author, A. A., Author, B. B., & Author, C. C. (Year). Title of article. Title of Periodical, volume number(issue number), pages. Berson, I. R., & Baggerly, J. (2009). Building resilience to trauma: Creating a safe and supportive early childhood classroom. Childhood Education, 85(6), 375-380. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 36 Parenthetical Citations Include the author and year with all material referred to or paraphrased Use parenthetical citations that emphasize author and timeliness when paraphrases are used: (Author, year) • e.g.: (Black, 2004) • e.g.: (Jones, Moore, & Pearson, 2010) • e.g.: According to Black (2004)… • e.g.: A 2004 study by Black indicated that… Include page numbers in the citation when direct quotations are used: (Author, year, p. #) • e.g.: (Black, 2004, p. 62) • e.g.: (Jones, More, & Pearson, 2010, p. 12) • e.g.: …noted Black (2004, p. 62) • e.g.: Black (2004) noted…(p. 62). Block Quoting Block quotations should be used if a quotation contains more than 40 words. To do so, start the quote on a new line, using the tab or margin function, indent each line five spaces and omit quotation marks. Works with Multiple Authors For sources with three to five authors, list all names the first time the source is cited in the text. In subsequent parenthetical citations, use the first author’s surname followed by “et al.” (with a period after “al”). • First parenthetical note: (Fisher, Taylor, Leggot, Stewart, & Maroney, 2010) • Subsequent parenthetical notes: (Fisher et al., 2010) For sources with six or more authors, use the first author’s surname followed by “et al.” in all parenthetical citations, but list all authors in the reference entry. • Parenthetical note: (Sowards et al., 2002) • Reference list: Sowards, C. S., Kroon, C. J., Marney, M. M., Espinosa, P. A., Mladdenoff, A. G., & French, C. M. (2002)… For sources with eight or more authors, use the first author’s surname followed by “et al.” in all parenthetical citations, and use an ellipsis between the sixth and last authors’ names in the reference entry. • Parenthetical note: (Brent et al., 2001) • Reference list: Brent, D. S., Canterbury, T. H., Clarke, J. T., Finch, C. T., Keenan, G. S., Malone, K.B., . . . Tinsley, D. B. (2001)… Information Adapted From Purdue’s OWL Website: Purdue OWL Website TCU College of Education Student Handbook 37 FilingComplaintsandGrievances Filing a complaint is a two stage process: Stage I: Register your complaint following the appeals process listed below. Students Faculty Cooperating Teachers, Principals, Partnering Districts and Students Stage II: File complaint with the Texas Education Agency STAGE I: Register your complaint following the appeals process Complaints or reports should be made as soon as possible after an incident. Students and employees should first follow the appropriate complaint procedures in the College of Education as noted in the TCU Official Student Handbook 2015-2016, pp. 26-27 and the Faculty Staff Handbook 2015-2016. Students If not satisfied Talk to the Dean of College of Education If not satisfied Step 4 Talk to the Associate Dean Step 3 Talk to the professor Step 2 Step 1 Course Concerns (not grading, sexual harassment, or discriminatory harassment) If not satisfied Talk to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Grade Appeals These must be initiated no later than 5 academic days of the beginning of the next semester. Step 1 Talk to the professor If after 5 academic days of no response, Step 2 Talk to the Associate Dean Within 7 days, the Associate Dean will make a decision. If the student wishes to appeal the decision of the Associate Dean, Step 3 The student may appeal in writing within 7 academic days of the first day of the next long semester, to the Dean of the College of Education If not satisfied, Step 4 Appeal in writing to the Academic Appeals Committee Chair within 7 academic days of the Dean's decision A hearing will be set to include the student, faculty member, committee members, and the college dean or designee Step 5 Appeal to the Provost The student, faculty member, Dean, and Associate Dean may appeal to the Provost in writing within 10 academic days of the committee's decision For more detailed information, refer to the TCU Official Student Handbook. TCU College of Education Student Handbook 38 If the complaint cannot be resolved after all College of Education and Texas Christian University processes have been exhausted, see Stage II. Faculty Dispute or grievance is a complaint or concern voiced by any College of Education faculty member regarding a condition of employment or the application, meaning, or interpretation of policies or procedures as they affect work activity. Issues related to faculty tenure, promotion and/or reappointment are not considered for tenure track faculty under this policy. Step 1 Informal Discussion: The faculty member and supervisor discuss the conflict and attempt to resolve the issues informally. If it cannot be resolved, then the faculty member works with the Conflict Resolution Facilitator (CRF) to resolve it. If it is not resolved, Step 2 Mediation: The CRF assigns a mediator to the case within 3 days of the request, and mediators have 10 days to set up the mediation. Step 3 Peer Review Panel/Provost: CRF appoints 3-person peer review panel and conducts hearing. The final, written decision is forwarded to the Provost who issues a final, written decision to all parties in the dispute. Step 4 Appeal of the CRF and the Provost’s decision may be made to the Chancellor, who then issues a final decision. See the TCU Faculty and Staff Handbook for complete information on timelines and procedures for faculty appeals. If the complaint cannot be resolved after all College of Education and Texas Christian University processes have been exhausted, see Stage II. Cooperating Teachers, Principals, Partnering Districts and Students If the cooperating teacher, principal, or partnering district has a complaint that is not included under Sexual Harassment and Discriminatory Harassment, the individual should: TCU College of Education Student Handbook 39 Step 1 Step 2 • Contact the field supervisor to discuss the concern as close to the event as possible. • If the field supervisor is not available or the concern has not been resolved, • The individual should contact the associate dean of undergraduate studies in the College of Education. • If the concern is still not resolved, a written complaint should be sent to the Dean of the College of Education. • The Dean of the College of Education will respond within 10 working days to the written complaint. • If the concern is still not resolved, • The individual should contact the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. Step 3 Sexual Harassment and Discriminatory Harassment Complaints or reports should be made as soon as possible after an incident. All individuals are encouraged to report discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct and retaliation so that prompt effective action can be taken. All complaints and third-party reports of conduct in violation of this policy should be made to the Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Officer/Title IX Coordinator (“Title IX Coordinator”) or to a Deputy Title IX Officer identified below. All complaints against a student will be referred to Glory Z. Robinson, Associate Dean of Campus Life. There are several ways to submit a complaint or report: • Leave a private message for the Title IX Coordinator at (817) 257-8228. • File a written complaint with the Title IX Coordinator. • Make an appointment to see the Title IX Coordinator or one of the Deputy Title IX Officers. Complaints against a student for conduct alleged to have been committed by a student in violation of this policy can also be made to Campus Life – Dean’s Office. Title IX Coordinator Dr. Darron Turner Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Jarvis Hall 228 (817) 257-5557 (main number) d.turner@TCU.edu Deputy Title IX Officer Kathy Cavins-Tull Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Sadler Hall, Room 4017 (817) 257-7820 k.cavins@tcu.edu TCU College of Education Deputy Title IX Officer Glory Z. Robinson Associate Dean of Campus Life Student Affairs Sadler Hall, Suite 2006 (817) 257-7926 g.robinson@tcu.edu Deputy Title IX Officer Kim Johnson Senior Associate Athletics Director TCU Athletics John Justin Athletic Center, Room C206 (817) 257-7950 k.n.johnson@tcu.edu Student Handbook Deputy Title IX Officer Kristen Taylor Director of Employee Relations Human Resources 3100 W. Berry St., Fort Worth, Texas (817) 257-4161 kristen.taylor@tcu.edu 40 The Title IX Coordinator coordinates and tracks all complaints and reports of conduct alleged to violate this policy. The Title IX Coordinator may handle a complaint alleging a violation of this policy, or it may be handled by one of the Deputy Title IX Officers, or another appropriate University official. The Title IX Coordinator and/or Deputy Title IX Officers may confer with one another or others when deemed appropriate. (see TCU Faculty/Staff Handbook or TCU Official Student Handbook). If the complaint cannot be resolved after all College of Education and Texas Christian University processes have been exhausted, see Stage II. STAGE II: File Complaint with TEA If the student, faculty member, or staff member is unable to resolve the complaint at the institutional level, and all TCU’s complaint and appeal processes have been exhausted, the individual may file a complaint with the Texas Education Agency (TEA). The official TEA complaint process can be found at www.tea.texas.gov in the banner located at the bottom of the page and then select “Educator Preparation Programs.” The complaint process allows for an applicant or a candidate in an educator preparation program to seek redress in areas where they feel that the program did not fulfill requirements for certification or for actions that the candidate feels are wrong. Educator preparation programs may also file a complaint about the actions of other programs when it involves a candidate transferring into a program. Not all complaints fall under the authority of TEA. TEA has jurisdiction to investigate allegations of noncompliance regarding specific laws and rules, generally related to state and federal requirements. Complaints may address educator preparation program requirements listed in Texas Administrative Code (TAC) in Chapters 227, 228, 229, ethics (TAC 247), fingerprinting (TAC §§227,232) and certification (TAC §§230, 231, 232, 239, 241, 242) All complaints filed with the TEA must be in writing. We do not accept complaints by phone or complaints that are submitted anonymously. A person or entity may file a written complaint with TEA by filling out the complaint form online or by mailing or faxing a hard copy to the address on the form. You may fax your submission to (512) 463-9008 or email it to generalinquiry@tea.texas.gov. To adequately review and address a complaint, TEA needs specific details. We must be able to identify a clear violation of TAC and determine whether the agency has authority to act upon the allegation. Complaints submissions should include the following: The reasons you believe the issues raised in your complaint are valid. You should also indicate how you believe that TEA can assist you with this matter. Remember that TEA cannot assist you in understanding your contractual arrangement with the educator preparation program, arranging for a refund, obtaining a higher grade or credit for training, or seeking reinstatement to an educator preparation program. Documentation to support your claim when possible. For example, if you refer in your complaint to an educator preparation program policy, include a copy of the policy with your complaint. Helpful documentation might include letters or e-mails exchanged between the parties. Texas Education Agency staff will send confirmation of a complaint within 30 days of receiving the submission. Remember, information the public sends to TEA by email may not be secure. Do not TCU College of Education Student Handbook 41 email sensitive information to TEA. The agency will remove confidential or sensitive information when replying by email. TEA will maintain confidentiality of information to the extent the law allows. TEXAS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE §228. 70 TCU College of Education Student Handbook 42