Teacher Shadow programs are informal arrangements between schools and businesses that give teachers the opportunity to spend the day with industry professionals, observing the latest techniques and technologies used in the workplace. Businesses can provide valuable continuing education for teachers, allowing them to update their skills and knowledge, as well as gain insight into the needs of employers.
Teacher shadow programs allow the teacher to observe what skills are used every day in business, as well as the practical applications of academic theory. Educators can teach their students the skills necessary to succeed in the workplace and provide relevance to their classroom instruction.
Hosting teacher shadow experiences is one of the most effective ways for business to influence the educational process. Teacher shadow programs are extremely simple and flexible, and do not require a long-term commitment by the business.
Many companies find that teacher shadowing is one of the easiest ways to get involved in education, and an effective way to start a cooperative dialogue between businesses and schools. Teacher shadowing may be right for your company if:
- Your company would like to get involved in school-to-careers programs, but doesn't have the resources to commit to long-term programs at the present time.
- You are frustrated that the prospective employees you interview don't have the basic skills you need in your business or industry, and would like to work with the schools in your area to help them meet your needs.
- You would like to influence the educational process in a direct and meaningful way.
- You would like your employees to be involved in public service projects.
- You would like to become involved with the schools in a flexible and informal manner, at your company's convenience.
- You would like to become part of a very effective program that provides a substantial return for a small investment of company resources and time.
Once you have decided that a teacher shadow program is right for your company, contact your school district office or the schools in your area, and ask to speak with an educator involved in Career and Technology Education programs. Your regional Tech Prep Consortium will also help you get in touch with the appropriate educators.
Good communication between the business contact person and the school liaison is essential. Mutual understanding of the goals of the program and careful planning of logistics and details will help to ensure a positive experience for the teachers and the business.
- Talk with the teacher about his/her interests and concerns. Understanding what teachers expect from the experience will help you to plan rewarding activities.
- Meet with the employees who will be involved in the shadow experience to discuss ideas and concerns, as well as to brainstorm possible hands-on activities for the teachers.
- Develop an agenda for the day(s). Be sure to reach a clear understanding of the dates and times the teacher should be at the business, as well as appropriate dress. Discuss any special requirements your business may have, such as safety guidelines for hairstyles, clothing and jewelry. Determine who will provide special equipment like safety glasses or steel-toed boots. Even details like, "Who provides lunch?" should be ironed out in advance. The school will arrange for a substitute teacher and other logistical details.
It's a good idea to develop a written agenda and provide it to the teacher and the participating employees at your company. Submit your plan to upper management for approval, if necessary.
NOTE: THIS SECTION IS PROVIDED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR LEGAL COUNSEL. FOR SPECIFIC ADVICE ON LIABILITY ISSUES, CONSULT YOUR LEGAL COUNSEL AND INSURANCE CARRIER.
Many companies are concerned about the legal liability of having teacher shadows at their workplace. Obviously, businesses must limit what activities teachers can engage in, and supervision by appropriate employees is required at all times.
Beyond these constraints, a little imagination and good planning can produce safe, rewarding activities for teachers. There are answers to liability concerns, and they should be addressed before the teachers come to the workplace.
- Most businesses carry general liability insurance that covers any visitors to their facilities. As guests in the workplace, teachers should be covered under general liability policies. Check with your insurance carrier to determine your coverage.
- Schools and school districts carry liability insurance for field trips and related activities. Check with your school liaison to make sure that insurance coverage is in place, and ask for a copy of liability coverage.
Once you have set a firm date and agenda for your shadow experience, send written notice to the departments and employees involved. Give them enough time to plan accordingly.
An effective teacher shadow program can help your company reach its community relations goals and develop a positive relationship with the educational system. Shadow programs can help schools and businesses expand career and educational opportunities for students. Teacher shadow programs can also help build morale by allowing employees to share their expertise and experience with educators.
It's a good idea to start small, hosting one or two teachers for a short-term experience. Careful planning and effective communication between the company and school can avert any problems and help build a program that your company can enjoy now and expand in the future.