The following Policy Guideline is designed to replace Information Policy Memorandum (IPM)-60, issued August 10, 1993.
Section 126.6(e) of the Commissioner's Regulations states that teachers who have been issued a license or permit shall successfully complete an orientation to classroom management program within four weeks of employment at a school.
Each school shall design a program to be offered to all of their instructors. Topics shall include but not be limited to, information on adult learning styles, introduction to the syllabus, writing lesson plans, testing attendance records, grading, discipline, and teacher licensing requirements. Attached is a listing and short description of these topics.
Upon completion of the orientation, the checklist, BPSS-118, must be completed and signed. The teacher must be given a copy and a copy must be kept in the teacher's file at the school for review by the Department upon request.
ORIENTATION TO CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT
The orientation to classroom management is required for all teachers upon employment at a school or a chain of schools. It is intended to give teachers an introduction to school specific topics which are necessary before entering the classroom. Because of scheduling problems which may exist at some schools, a maximum of four weeks from the date a teacher is employed is allowed for completion of this requirement.
The method of presentation and exact content of the orientation to classroom management is up to each school. The topics identified below must be included.
After completing the orientation, the checklist, BPSS-118 must be completed. The teacher must receive a copy of the checklist and a copy must be kept at the school in each teacher's file for review by Department staff upon request.
Adult Learning Styles--The attitudes, behaviors, and problems of adult learners differ from those of other groups. Teachers of adult learners need to be aware of these special considerations and how to teach in a way which will be beneficial to this group.
Introduction to the Syllabi--Each teacher must have available a copy of the approved curriculum from which he/she must prepare lesson plans. Emphasis must be placed on the importance of teaching the curriculum as approved, including the sequence of courses.
Writing Lesson Plans--Includes how to structure a lesson around a particular objective in the curriculum including review, new material, and practice.
Testing--Correct format for tests includes the title of the course and complete directions to the student. Like types of questions must be grouped together and the test must cover a sample of all material covered in that unit/course.
Attendance Records--The importance of keeping accurate attendance records as approved and following Commissioner's Regulations must be stressed. Samples of how to keep records should be shown. Any specific school policies regarding attendance should be included in this segment.
Grading--Emphasize that grading must be done as approved in the curriculum. Discuss appropriate approaches to grading, including any specific school policies.
Discipline--Although discipline may not be a problem in a particular school, guidelines ought to be given on how to avoid discipline problems and what to do if they occur. Emphasis should be on prevention.
Licensing Requirements--The levels of licensure for proprietary school teachers and requirements for meeting those levels must be reviewed. Details regarding acceptable professional education courses should be included.