Frequently Asked Questions What are the prerequisites for student teaching? 1. Completion of pre-clinical field experience hours 2. Illinois Criminal Background Check 3. Copy of your TB test results Mandated Reporter documentation 4. Satisfactory completion of all required coursework 5. Content Test policies for MAT Traditional Programs (as of July 2024)
How do I request a background check? Review the Teacher Education Program Checklist for information regarding requesting and submitting a background check.
Do I have to interview for a student teaching position? Expect to interview. Interviews are often conducted for Middle Grades & Secondary Education placements, while other programs may also use interviews for placement. Knowledge of content area or interest in a grade level may be a main topic of discussion. The interview is an opportunity for school personnel to determine whether the placement is a good match for both you and the school. Dress professionally, show enthusiasm for your profession and the school, and let them know you are eager to learn and excited to be interviewed. It’s great experience for when it comes time to apply for teaching positions! Where will I be placed during my student teaching? Placement locations vary depending on availability at school sites. We do, however, consider location, program, level, and suitability when making the placement. In what counties in Illinois are student teachers from the National College of Education placed? • Region I: Central & North Cook • Region II: Central & South Cook • Region III: Southwest Cook & South LaSalle
• Region IV: Will & DuPage • Region V: Kane & McHenry
• Region VI: Kendall, DeKalb & LaSalle • Region VII: Will, Kankakee, & Grundy If you live outside one of the noted regions, NLU will place you within 30 miles of your home address.
When will I hear about my placement? Once we send your application to a partner school, the time allotted for a response varies depending on the school's own policy for placement. If the
41 / MAT (Program) Handbook
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