The professional educator standards board, from appropriated funds, shall establish a network of student teaching centers to support the continuing development of the field-based component of teacher preparation programs. The purpose of the training centers is to:

     (1) Expand opportunities for student teacher placements in school districts statewide, with an emphasis on those populations and locations that are unserved or underserved;

     (2) Provide cooperating teachers for all student teachers during their student internship for up to two academic quarters;

     (3) Enhance the student teaching component of teacher preparation programs, including a placement of student teachers in special education and multi-ethnic school settings; and

     (4) Expand access to each other and opportunities for collaboration in teacher education between colleges and universities and school districts.

[2006 c 263 § 812; 1991 c 258 § 6.]

NOTES:

     Findings -- Purpose -- Part headings not law -- 2006 c 263: See notes following RCW 28A.150.230.