91´ô¸ç Clinical Teaching
At 91´ô¸ç, we’re committed to providing aspiring educators with hands-on experience in a dynamic and supportive environment. Work alongside experienced Cooperating Teachers who will guide you as you develop your skills, while embracing our district's values of equity, innovation, and collaboration. Take the next step in your clinical teaching journey with AISD!
CLINICAL TEACHING IN AISD:
A clinical teacher is a student who is ready to teach full days in the classroom for approximately 14 weeks. The experience follows a progressive release model, where the student begins by getting to know the class and observing the cooperating teacher. Over time, the clinical teacher gradually takes on more responsibility, eventually leading classroom instruction with the cooperating teacher in a supportive role.
Step 1: Submit Placement Request
- Epp/University submits the Clinical Teaching Placement Request
- EPP/University sends an email to cruz.a.torres@austinisd.org to inform that the requests have been submitted.
- AISD Talent Strategy will coordinate and assign placement for all clinical teachers.AISD works directly with university coordinators to set-up clinical teaching placements
Step 2: Complete Criminal History Check
- All student teachers must clear a background check before starting at any AISD campus.
- The background check request is initiated by your educator preparation program coordinator.
Step 3: Attend Student Teacher Orientation
- Orientation is required for all incoming student teachers.
- Learn about AISD’s expectations, teaching approach, and the hiring process for future job opportunities.
STUDENT OBSERVER/INTERN
A student observer/intern is gaining field experience by observing classroom activities. These students typically spend 2-4 hours per week in the classroom for a specified period, helping them become familiar with the teaching environment.
Step 1: Submit Observation Request
- The University Coordinator sends an email to cruz.a.torres@austinisd.org to notify AISD of the student’s observation request.
Step 2: Complete Background Check
- AISD Coordinator provides the University Coordinator with a background check request form.
- The University Coordinator submits the form to AISD’s Office of Professional Standards and cruz.a.torres@austinisd.org for processing.
Step 3: Contact Campuses
- Once steps 1 and 2 are complete, the student may contact AISD campuses to arrange observations.
- If assistance is needed in finding a campus, please contact cruz.a.torres@austinisd.org
COOPERATING TEACHER (FOR AISD EMPLOYEES ONLY)
Make a difference by supporting a preservice teacher through mentorship and coaching! As a Cooperating Teacher, you will have the opportunity to build your leadership skills while providing essential career experience for a preservice teacher. By welcoming a preservice teacher into your classroom, you are also adding a partner and collaborator as you work to meet the needs of your students.
Step 1: Review Eligibility
- Must have at least 3 years of experience in your current role.
- Must have received an “Effective†or higher rating on your current PPfT Appraisal.
- Must have strong content knowledge, lesson planning, and teaching skills.
- Must demonstrate:
- Positive attitude toward the profession, colleagues, students, and parents.
- Commitment to equity and improving student outcomes.
- Ability to provide respectful, caring feedback.
- Patience, flexibility, and good listening skills.
Step 2: Submit Interest Form
- Fill out the .
Step 3: Obtain Principal Approval
- Talent Strategy communicates with the Principal regarding cooperating teacher interest from AISD Teacher.
- Principal approval is required before you can officially become a cooperating teacher.
EDUCATOR PREPARATION PROGRAM PARTNERS:
AISD collaborates with the following educator preparation programs:
- University of Texas at Austin
- Texas State University
- Texas Tech University
- St. Edward’s University
- Huston-Tillotson University
- ESC Region 13
- Austin Community College
- Concordia University
- Texas A&M University
- Stephen F. Austin University
- Western Governors University
- Grand Canyon University
- Angelo State
- Educators of Excellence
- Texas Teachers
Contact Information
For questions or to partner with AISD, please reach out to Armando Torres, email: cruz.a.torres@austinisd.org