St. Cloud State has created, implemented and researched a new approach to student teaching utilizing a co-teaching model. This innovative work was originally undertaken through a U.S. Department of Education Teacher Quality Enhancement Partnership Grant for $5 million awarded in 2003.
Co-Teaching is defined as two teachers working together with groups of students and sharing the planning, organization, delivery and assessment of instruction and physical space.
Co-Teaching maximizes strengths between two colleagues, creating an environment that not only meets student needs, but energizes the learning experience. Co-Teaching is a powerful way to introduce new teachers to the profession through student-teaching internships that model strong practice, mentorship strategies, and professional reflection that is essential to classroom success. Co-Teachers who collaborate within the classroom environment to support language learners, special education students, and content integration not only boost achievement, but have happier and more meaningful relationships with colleagues.