Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum number of years of teaching experience required to become an MRU Mentor Teacher?

No. MRU uses a strengths- and commitment-based mentorship model. While teaching experience is valuable, we have found that willingness, engagement, and a desire to support Teacher Candidates are the most important qualities in a Mentor Teacher. See more here.

What are the expectations of a Mentor Teacher? How much paperwork is involved?

Mentor Teachers are asked to support the professional growth of Teacher Candidates through mentorship, feedback, and opportunities for classroom involvement. 

For all placements, Mentor Teachers are asked to complete a Mid-Term and Final Evaluation for their Teacher Candidate. In Years 1–2, brief assignment-based feedback may occasionally be requested (for example, short feedback on a lesson plan). In Years 3–4, Mentor Teachers are asked to provide one brief piece of written feedback per day to support ongoing reflection and growth. 

Are Teacher Candidates required to submit lesson plans to their Mentor Teachers?

Yes. Teacher Candidates are expected to share lesson plans with their Mentor Teachers in advance of teaching. The level of detail and frequency may vary depending on the placement year and the expectations established within the classroom partnership.

TCs in Years 3-4 are required to prepare a digital dossier that includes written lesson plans for each lesson taught and reflections on each of these lessons using the Department of Education Lesson Plan Template

What support does MRU provide to Mentor Teachers? Is there an Honorarium?

MRU provides orientation materials, handbooks, ongoing communication, and support from the practicum team throughout the placement. Faculty Supervisors and Coordinators are available to answer questions and assist with concerns as they arise.

In Years 3–4, each Teacher Candidate and Mentor Teacher pairing is assigned a Faculty Supervisor who provides weekly visits, evaluation support, and ongoing guidance throughout the placement.

An honourarium of $100 is provided to Mentor Teachers supporting a Year 3 or  Teacher Candidate.

Can a Mentor Teacher host more than one Teacher Candidate?

In most cases, yes! Depending on the placement structure and school context, Mentor Teachers may choose to host more than one Teacher Candidate in the same or an alternate year. 

What should a Mentor Teacher do if concerns arise during the placement?

Mentor Teachers are encouraged to communicate concerns early with the Teacher Candidate and reach out to the MRU practicum team for support. We value open communication and work collaboratively to support successful placements that prioritize the learning and well-being of the students in your classroom, while also supporting both the Mentor Teacher and Teacher Candidate. 

Resources:

Important Resources for Professional Preparation 

Taking Flight - Navigating Field Experience: The website contains comprehensive information and resources for student teachers (teacher candidates).
Professional Code of Conduct: Review this document before beginning your field experiences and/or practicum. You must be familiar with the legal frameworks and guidelines.

Teacher Qualifications Services: The Teaching Qualification Services (TQS) of the Alberta Teachers' Association evaluates all post-secondary education for salary purposes. You must apply to TQS for assessment in the final semester of your program. 

Alberta Education

Professional Practice Standards: This website provides information about provincial standards and why they are important for teachers to understand. 

Teaching Quality Standards: The Teaching Quality Standards document from Alberta Education informs how teacher candidates are evaluated in their year one and two Field Experiences, year three Practicum I and year four Practicum II. 

Teaching Certification: The Professional Standards Branch of Alberta Education certifies teachers in Alberta. Graduating students should apply to Alberta Education for certification in the final semester of their degree program. Please access the Teacher Workforce Information Systems (TWINS) Self-Service to apply.