Teacher Education Program Policies | Northern State University

General

Where can I access the TEP Handbook?: The handbook is available in Exxat (resources), by request via email to TEProfPrep@northern.edu, or on the School of Education website here: https://td.northern.edu/TDClient/30/Portal/KB/ArticleDet?ID=354

What is due process?: Due process provides a set of steps for students to address disputes or concerns through informal and formal review channels.
How do I file an appeal?: Appeal steps depend on the issue. To appeal a decision made by program faculty or staff, the Teacher Education Council, or Office of Professional Prepartion, contact the Teacher Education Department Chair. To appeal any other university decisions, contact the School of Education Dean or follow any communciated appeal procedures specific to the issue.

How do I withdraw from the Teacher Education Program?: Students admitted to the Teacher Education Program who decide to withdraw must submit a formal written letter of withdrawal to the Teacher Education Department Chair.

What professional expectations do I have in field experiences?: Teacher candidates must follow program expectations, school expectations, professional ethics, and appropriate professional conduct throughout all field experiences. When in doubt, reach out to your cooperating teacher, university supervisor, school administrator, and/or the Director of Professional Preparation for guidance.
What happens if I violate professional expectations or ethics?: Violations may result in a Plan for Success, suspension from placement, termination of the field experience, review by the Teacher Edcuation Council Dispositions Subcommittee, and/or dismissal from the program depending on seriousness.

What is mandatory reporting?: Mandatory reporting refers to the legal responsibility of educators and certain professionals to report suspected child abuse or neglect according to South Dakota law and district procedures.

What is FERPA?: FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student educational records. Teacher candidates are expected to keep student and candidate information confidential and may only share information with authorized individuals who have a legitimate educational interest.