Glossary of Terms

Clinical Teaching Assignment - Is a period of exploration and continuous self-evaluation to help you become a successful classroom teacher for the 21st century. A solid foundation of theory, turned into meaningful hands on experience will ensure you are ready to command your own classroom.

Mentor Teacher – The certified classroom teacher in which you are assigned. The mentor teacher provides feedback and support to the clinical teacher. The supportive / formative role between the mentor teacher and clinical teacher is crucial to their success during the clinical teaching assignment.

Program Supervisor – The program supervisor will work closely with the mentor teacher to help enhance the educational experience of the clinical teacher during their 12-week assignment. The program supervisor will make four rigorous on-site scheduled visits during the clinical teaching assignment. This will occur during the 1st, 5th, 9th, and 12th week of the clinical teaching assignment.

Professional Development and Appraisal System (PDAS) - PDAS remains in place as the State's approved instrument for appraising its teachers and identifying areas that would benefit from staff development. Cornerstones of the process include a minimum of one 45-minute observation and completion of the Teacher Self-Report form. PDAS includes 51 criteria within eight domains reflecting the Proficiencies for Learner-Centered Instruction adopted in 1997 by the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC). The domains are: