School and Community Experiences

Cooperating Teacher Application

School and Community Experiences manages placements for Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Grades, and Secondary English, Math, Science and Social Studies candidates. 

The 2025-2026 Cooperating Teacher Application is now open!

Application:

Trying to decide if hosting a student teacher or observer is right for you? Consider the following:

• You have the option to co-teach with your student – even as needed during takeover – in order to stay connected to your students.
• You have the option to connect with a colleague in the same content area to share a student placement in order to stay connected to your students.
• You will create evidence for Domain 4 in Danielson Evaluations, specifically in the area of developing a professional community and growing and developing professionally (4d and 4e) by mentoring new teachers. 
• You can earn a Tuition and Fee Waiver good for one semester, which must be used within the four semesters (including summer term) following the semester you mentored.
• You will offer significant, lifetime impact on a student through your mentorship.
• PDHs are available for hosting students.
• Student teachers who have obtained their substitute teacher license and have been hired by your district may serve as a substitute in your classroom for up to ten days.

If you have questions about the application process, please email us at sce@education.illinois.edu