The University Supervisor
University Supervisors assist Teacher Interns in becoming professional educators. University Supervisors also promote a mutual understanding between cooperating schools and the University to work together to train and prepare new teachers for the field of education. For all concerned, University Supervisors are key representatives of USU.
Supervision of Interns
A University Supervisor observes the intern regularly during the term, conferences with the Intern after site visits, and provides the required support. The school provides a Site Mentor who functions as the Intern’s on-Site Mentor. The school site also provides the required support outlined in the internship agreement.
Interns are evaluated by the University Supervisor and the Site Mentor at midterm and at the end of the term. In conferences, evaluations are reviewed, discussed, and signed. The performance areas and indicators on the Evaluation Form are closely linked to the California TPEs. Interns are also subject to the evaluation practices and requirements of their school site.
USU, in collaboration with participating employing districts, shall ensure that University Intern Credential candidates receive a minimum of 144 hours of annual support, supervision, and mentoring, which includes 45 hours of support specific to the instruction of English learners, as required by California Code of Regulations, Title 5, §80033. The required support and supervision are provided through a coordinated partnership between USU and the employing district and are designed to promote candidate growth, effective teaching practice, and successful completion of credential requirements.
In accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) established between USU and participating districts, any reduction to an intern teacher’s salary for supervision-related costs shall not exceed one-eighth (1/8) of the intern’s total salary. Additionally, an intern’s salary shall not be less than the minimum base salary paid to a regularly certificated teacher employed by the district. If an intern’s salary is reduced to support supervision costs, the district support provider shall advise no more than eight (8) interns at any one time.
University Supervisors’ Roles and Responsibilities
- Establishes a positive working relationship with the assigned Teacher Intern
- Introduces him/herself to the school Principal and/or Principal’s designee
- Serves as liaison between the Teacher Intern and the Site Mentor
- Maintains open communication between school personnel, Site Mentor, and the Teacher Intern
- Monitors the quality of the match between the Teacher Intern and the Site Mentor
- Is responsive to the needs of the Teacher Intern and their Site Mentor
- Assists Teacher Interns in the development of teaching skills
- Supports Teacher Interns personally and professionally
- Provides regular constructive feedback, both oral and written
- Secures Teacher Intern evaluations from the Site Mentor
- Meets and instructs Teacher Interns until completion of their internship program
- Records attendance and grades within the timelines required by the USU
- Evaluates the Teacher Intern’s work and conduct formal observations
- Reviews observations with the Teacher Intern and the Site Mentor