The local school authorities have granted permission for you to observe classes and to complete your student teaching in their school. The continuance of this privilege to those who will follow you depends upon how well you do your work and the manner in which you conduct yourself.
Be prepared to spend the time necessary to participate in the activities expected of agriculture teachers. You are expected to take an active role in evening and weekend activities. Remember, this student teaching is an opportunity for you to experience the roles and responsibilities of teaching agriculture. Plan to be involved in a variety of activities and budget your time and other resources in order to allow for your participation. Employment is not allowed since it would detract from the potential benefits of the student teaching experience.
Keep the required records and reports and submit them on time.
Whenever you leave the school for any reason, you must have the consent of your cooperating teacher. Report any absence (for any reason) to the cooperating teacher as soon as possible and arrange for your classes to be taught. Student teachers should also inform their university supervisor of any absence. In addition, if you leave the community over a weekend or holiday, inform your cooperating teacher of your whereabouts.
At least for the first three weeks of student teaching, set aside time at the end of each day for a conference with your cooperating teacher. After the third week of teaching, conferences may be held on a weekly basis. However, you must meet with your cooperating teacher weekly for an evaluative conference throughout the student teaching period. The student teacher should complete the self-assessment portion of the Student Teaching Weekly Evaluation Form prior to each weekly meeting.
Communicate often with your university supervisor. Complete your weekly Reflection Journal on time and contact your university supervisor for help as you need it. At least three days before your university supervisor’s visit, complete the Pre–Observation Work Sheet and email it to your supervisor. Then, schedule a phone conference with your supervisor to discuss the visit. Feel free to contact your university supervisor at any time.
Attend to all financial matters and any other obligations before leaving the community.
Ask the cooperating teacher for copies of any desired teaching materials for your future use.
Before leaving your school, be sure to express your appreciation to your cooperating teacher and administrators. Follow this up with a written expression of appreciation.