Unpacking Challenges to Building Model Clinical School Sites

• In Event: Moscone Center West Roundtable Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: Mentorship of Preservice and Novice Teachers in Diverse Contexts

Abstract

Declining enrollment in teacher preparation programs and the early attrition of new teachers have resulted in local education agencies (LEA) unable to fill certain positions, particularly in special education and math (Carver-Thomas & Darling-Hammond, 2017). To mitigate this phenomenon, it is essential to explore how teacher preparation programs are collaborating with local school districts to empower mentor teachers to work with beginning teachers. This qualitative study explores how one LEA and university have been working together. Through empathy interviews with various stakeholders, we have identified the needs and challenges associated with building a model clinical school sites. Our findings have yielded the need for the development of a task force and a more cohesive system of communication between the agencies.

Authors

• Rosalinda Larios, California State University - Fullerton

• Andrea G. Zetlin, California State University - Los Angeles