Student teaching is the most relevant experience in teacher education because it is the final step in role-taking: taking on the role of teacher in the act of educating students. Student teaching is a full-time responsibility. Student teachers are expected to focus their full energies on this experience, just as the licensed teacher would. Therefore, employment during the weekdays of the full-time student teaching semester is highly discouraged. Taking courses beyond the required co-requisite of the student teaching seminar is also highly discouraged.
Student athletes must also prioritize student teaching by working their athletic participation around student teaching. Student athletes are encouraged to work with their coaches so they may arrange arriving at practices late in order to allow the appropriate focus on the student teaching experience. Parent conferences and team planning often occur after the school day. Student athletes are expected to maintain the same work hours as licensed teachers are each day.