Building Rapport with Your Cooperating Teacher

Meet the cooperating teacher as soon as possible after you receive your assignment. Visit the classroom to learn more about the teacher's style and find out about supplies in advance.
Keep an open mind. Remember that you are a guest in the classroom and that you are there to learn. Even when the cooperating teacher disagrees with you, try to learn from the experience.
Dedicate yourself to the experience. Treat your appointment as if it were a full time job.
Take initiative in helping out with things in the classroom. Ask if there are tasks you can assist with. Be proactive!
Negative comments about students, other teachers, and the school are sometimes voiced in the teacher's lounge. Don't listen to it - it can bring you down. Stay focused and positive.
Keep communication open between your cooperating teacher and yourself. Discuss any problems/successes you are having. Share ideas/feelings early, especially if you are uncomfortable about something.
Ask for help with curriculum and lesson plans. This is a learning experience. You are not expected to know everything.
Learn your rights as a student teacher. This includes knowing whether you can request another assignment and knowing what to do if you are unable to go to the school because of illness or interviews.

This document was last updated 5/29/97 by Chandra Hawley.
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