This culminating experience signifies a significant transition from student to professional educator. Through this practicum, teacher candidates have the opportunity to apply the skills acquired during coursework and prior clinical experiences. The ultimate aim is for candidates to evolve into effective classroom instructors, while the students in the classrooms involved benefit from the introduction of innovative ideas and methodologies. The Office of Clinical Experiences oversees the placement of teacher candidates and university supervisors and provides support throughout the student teaching semester.

The cooperating teacher plays a vital role in the preparation of teacher candidates, serving as a daily mentor, professional collaborator, and advisor. These teachers hold valid teaching licenses, boast a minimum of three years of successful teaching experience, and are endorsed by school administrators to fulfill the role of mentor.

Meanwhile, university supervisors act as liaisons between the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education and partnering schools. They conduct formal observations of the candidate teaching lessons and provide recommendations for professional growth. Supervisors may currently hold teaching licenses or have recently retired from positions in classroom teaching or school administration.