Student Teaching Program

Austin ISD offers placements for pre-service teachers in schools across the district. Experienced AISD Cooperating Teachers provide invaluable coaching, collaboration, and support as these future educators grow their teaching craft.

BECOMING A STUDENT TEACHER IN AISD:

Placement Requests

Student teacher placement requests are accepted from partnering educator preparation programs in the months before the start of each semester. Students who are interested in student teaching in AISD should contact their educator preparation program. Typically, placements for the fall semester are made in May, and placements for the spring semester are made in November.

Criminal History Checks

To ensure the safety of our students, each student teacher, intern, and observer must clear a background check before arriving on any campus. Educator preparation program coordinators initiate this process by submitting a background check request form to AISD Talent Development.

Student Teacher Orientation

A required Student Teacher Orientation is held each semester for incoming student teachers. During this orientation, we share AISD's expectations related to ethics & conduct and provide an overview of the district’s vision, values, and approach to teaching and learning. In addition, district leaders provide information on the hiring process, so that those interested in securing a teaching job upon graduation can continue their teaching careers in AISD.

COOPERATING TEACHERS

AISD offers effective teachers the opportunity to share their vast knowledge and expertise in the area of teaching and learning with student teachers, interns, and observers from partnering educator preparation programs. Cooperating teachers are lifelong learners who successfully implement best practices, are proficient collaborators and communicators, and are dedicated to supporting future educators. Effective cooperating teachers are an integral part of the development and success of the student teacher.

All AISD teachers receive email communication about this rewarding opportunity in the months before the fall and spring semesters. All interested teachers who meet eligibility requirements are encouraged to submit a Cooperating Teacher Agreement. Principal approval is also required.

Cooperating Teacher Eligibility:

Commitment to supporting future educators.
Positive attitude towards the profession, position, parents, students, and colleagues.
A commitment to more equitable student outcomes.
Ability to interact and provide feedback in a respectful, caring, and supportive way.
Flexibility and patience.
Good listening and problem-solving skills.
Willingness to share your classroom, materials, and resources with preservice students.
At a minimum, three years of experience in your current role.
Valid credentials within your field.
Received "Effective" or above on your current PPfT Appraisal.
Strong knowledge base of your content area.
Proficiency in lesson planning and delivery.

Are you interested in serving as a cooperating teacher? Fill out the interest form!

Are you an educator preparation program interested in partnering with Austin ISD? Contact Ashley Gahan at ashley.gahan@austinisd.org or Jack McGavick at jack.mcgavick@austinisd.org

Student Teaching Program