24:41:01:01. Definitions. Terms used in this article mean:
(1) "Alternative certification," the process of completing an approved education program for teachers or a professional development plan for alternative certification while employed in a South Dakota school system accredited by the department;
(2) "Beginning teacher," a person who possesses a teaching certificate issued by the State of South Dakota, is employed at least half-time by a school district, and has taught fewer than 90 consecutive days, or 180 days total, as a certified teacher;
(3) "Formal assistance," a program provided by a mentor teacher to a beginning teacher that includes direct classroom observation and consultation, assistance in instructional planning and preparation, support in implementation and delivery of classroom instruction, and other assistance intended to enhance the professional performance and development of the beginning teacher;
(4) "Mentor teacher," shall:
(a) Have at least five years verified teaching experience with at least one of those years being within the past seven years; or
(b) Have at least five years teaching experience and can document experience within the past seven years in an educational field relative to the five Core Propositions of the National Board Professional Teaching Standards; and
(c) A valid or expired teaching certificate or license.
Source: 30 SDR 26, effective September 3, 2003.
General Authority: SDCL 13-1-12.1, 13-43-55.1.
Law Implemented: SDCL 13-1-12.1, 13-43-55.1.
24:41:02:01. Scope. The mentoring program shall provide eligible beginning teachers in both alternative certification programs and new graduates with sustained support from a formally assigned mentor teacher.
The formal assignment of mentor teachers who have demonstrated mastery of teaching skills and subject matter knowledge is intended to substantially improve the recruitment, retention, and professional growth of beginning teachers in the state as well as provide mentor teachers with additional and valuable opportunities to enhance their own professional growth.
Source: 30 SDR 26, effective September 3, 2003.
General Authority: SDCL 13-1-12.1, 13-43-55.1.
Law Implemented: SDCL 13-1-12.1, 13-43-55.1.
24:41:03:01. Guidelines. The guidelines for implementation of a mentoring program within a district are as follows:
(1) Formal assistance is provided by a mentor teacher to a beginning teacher;
(2) Any district may apply to the Department of Education for participation in the beginning teacher support program;
(3) To the extent feasible, school districts may coordinate with institutions of higher education in the design, implementation, and evaluation of mentorship programs;
(4) A participating district must have a plan for a mentoring program.
Source: 30 SDR 26, effective September 3, 2003.
General Authority: SDCL 13-1-12.1, 13-43-55.1.
Law Implemented: SDCL 13-1-12.1, 13-43-55.1.
