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4. Once an individual registers, a code number is given. This number must be retained by the individual. 5. To be fingerprinted, an individual must go to a designated fingerprinting site, taking the code number and a picture ID. Refer to www.pa.cogentid.com for a list of all designated sites. 6. Once the individual has been fingerprinted, he/she must submit the registration identification PAE number to the School of Education. 7. After processing the PAE number, the individual will receive a copy of the clearance via email. To enhance the safety of students, Act 82 of 2012 expands the provisions of Act 24. The Arrest or Conviction Report and Certification Form associated with Act 82 must be completed by teacher preparation candidates prior to participation in classroom teaching, clinical, or field experience. The form must also be completed by candidates to report arrests or convictions within 72 hours of the occurrence of such arrest or conviction. See the form for all reportable offenses. The form is available in the School of Education office. Candidates whose clearances are not on file during the first month of the semester in which they are enrolled for their first field experience will be required to drop the course from their schedules. Out-of-state candidates are also subject to background checks and must follow the same directions as residents of Pennsylvania. Candidates must have attended a Diocesan Child Protection Policy training session prior to the first field experience. The one hour training is offered free of charge at Gannon University. Candidates must have a valid negative TB test on file in the School of Education prior to the first field experience. Arrangements for the test are the responsibility of the teacher candidate. All secondary majors also must earn a passing grade on each field experience before the next experience can be completed. The grades for field experiences in the PreK-4, 4-8, and Special Education PreK-8 programs are included as part of specific courses.
Student teaching is a capstone experience. In order to qualify for student teaching, teacher candidates must have met or exceeded all program requirements. In addition, candidates for student teaching must do the following: • Demonstrate acceptance into the School of Education. • Apply for student teaching one year prior to beginning the experience. • Demonstrate overall satisfactory ratings in the area of professional dispositions. • Have a valid negative TB test on file in the School of Education prior to the first day of student teaching. Arrangements for the test are the responsibility of the teacher candidate. If candidates are graduating in the semester of their student teaching experience, they are encouraged to complete the content specific exams designated by the Pennsylvania Department of Education prior to student teaching. Passage of these exams is required for recommendation for Level I teaching certification in Pennsylvania. Individuals Returning for Initial Certification Individuals with a BA or BS degree who are returning for certification must apply and be accepted through the University’s Center for Adult Learning and meet all criteria for admission to the School of Education. Denial of Admission to the School of Education An overall grade point average of 3.0 must be maintained. Individuals who do not meet state