Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education

The Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education

Thomas Philion, Ph.D., Professor, Dean
Alberto López-Carrasquillo, Ph.D., Professor, Associate Dean

The Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education at Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) is dedicated to excellence in preparing educators, counselors, leaders, and health professionals for the diverse Chicago metropolitan area. Committed to equity, inclusion, and social justice, the college integrates evidence-based teaching, innovative research, and community engagement to deliver high-quality programs. Through experiential learning, candidates bridge theory and practice, fostering transformative professional practice.

Mission and Goals

The Goodwin College of Education prepares professionals who:

1. Embrace diversity as a foundation for excellence and innovation.

2. Promote equity, inclusiveness, and social justice in communities and organizations.

3. Ground practice in inquiry, evidence, scholarship, and real-world application.

4. Pursue lifelong learning to enhance knowledge and perspectives.

5. Drive positive change through collaborative relationships.

Shared Beliefs

Guided by its conceptual framework, Professional Practitioners: Reflective, Collaborative, Transformative, the college emphasizes reflective, collaborative, and transformative professional practice. Programs combine a strong liberal arts foundation, rigorous professional coursework, and extensive field experiences to prepare candidates for impactful careers. 

Accreditation and Licensure Programs

The college holds national accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) for teacher preparation and advanced educator programs, and from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) for counseling programs. The School Social Work specialization in the MSW graduate program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

All licensure programs are fully approved by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), including:

• Early Childhood Education (Birth–Grade 2)

• Elementary Education (Grades 1–6), including Bilingual Endorsement

• Middle Level Education (Grades 5–8): Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies

• Secondary Education (Grades 9–12): English, Mathematics, History, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physics

• PK–12 Programs: Visual Arts, Music Education, Physical Education, Spanish

• Special Education (K–Age 21): Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS I), LBS II (Behavior Intervention, Curriculum Adaptation)

• Administrative and School Support (PK–Age 21): Principal, Teacher Leader, School Counselor, School Social Worker

• Endorsements (PK–12): Bilingual/ESL, Reading Teacher, Reading Specialist

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Majors:

• Community Health (E003)

• Early Childhood Education (E113)

• Elementary Education (E100)

• Elementary Education with Bilingual Endorsement (E101)

• Human Resource Development (E004) 1

• Middle Level Education (area of concentration in Language Arts or Mathematics or Science or Social Studies) (E170)

• Music Education PK-12 (F291)

• Physical Education PK-12 (E261)

• Spanish PK-12 (F276)

• Special Education (E320)

• Urban Community Studies (E119)1

• Visual Arts PK-12 (F206)

Non-licensure majors must complete all program requirements and a major declaration form to graduate.

Undergraduate Minors:

• Educational Studies (L020)

• Health Promotion (L027)

• Exercise Science (L046)

• Human Resource Development (L034)

• Bilingual Education (L052)

• Urban Community Studies (L047)

Graduate Programs

• Master of Arts (MA): Educational Leadership (School Leadership, Higher Education); Community and Teacher Leaders; Counseling (Couple and Family, School, Clinical Mental Health, Rehabilitation); Human Resource Development; Urban Community Studies; Literacy Education; Special Education (LBS I); Teaching (Early Childhood, Elementary, Elementary with Bilingual Endorsement, Middle-Level, Secondary).

• Master of Science (MS): Special Education (LBS II: Behavior Intervention, Curriculum Adaptation, Combined); Exercise Science; Teaching and Inquiry.

• Master of Public Health (MPH): Includes specializations in Public Health, Healthcare Administration, and School Health.

• Non-Degree Teacher Licensure Program (ND-TLP): Post-baccalaureate licensure in Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle Level, Secondary, and PK–12 Education (Spanish, Music Education, Physical Education, and Visual Arts).

• Certificate Programs: Counseling (Couple and Family, Addiction, Rehabilitation, Trauma-Informed); Health (Public Health, School Health), Workplace Learning & Performance.

• Subsequent Endorsement Programs: Bilingual Education, Reading Teacher, LBS I/II Endorsements, Health Education, Visual Arts, Physical Education, School Counselor.

Doctoral Program

• Doctor of Education (EdD): Leadership, Equity, and Inquiry.

Advisement

• Undergraduate: Freshmen and sophomores work with the University Advising Center. Goodwin College advisors guide candidates in licensure programs. Consult the Goodwin College web page for the list of Undergraduate Advisors.

• Graduate: Candidates consult the Graduate Advisors List for program-specific guidance. The list is provided on the website for the College of Graduate Studies and Research.

Communication

All communication from the Goodwin College of Education will be sent exclusively through Nmail, the NEIU email system. Students are responsible for regularly checking their NEIU email to stay informed about program updates and deadlines.

Declaring a Major

The Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education has clear procedures for undergraduate students who wish to declare an education major.

1. Process for Declaring a Major:

   • Students can declare a major in a Goodwin College of Education undergraduate program at any time. Students must obtain approval from their program advisor and must submit a major declaration form to Enrollment Management Services.

2. Felony Convictions and Teacher Licensure:

   • Certain felony convictions may prevent students from obtaining an Illinois teaching license. Students with prior convictions should contact the Goodwin College of Education Licensure Officer at gcoe@neiu.edu before declaring a major in any teacher licensure program. 

3. GPA Requirement for Declared Majors:

   • After the completion of 60 or more credit hours of undergraduate coursework, declared majors must have at least a GPA of 2.5 for continued study in their selected majors. The 60 or more credit hour threshold is known as “candidacy.” Students who do not meet their program’s GPA requirements for candidacy may have their declaration of major deferred, revoked or denied. Consult your program advisor for information about the GPA requirement for your program.

4. Transfer Students:

   • Transfer students admitted with 60 credit hours, but who have not yet met the minimum GPA for continued study or candidacy in their education major, may be granted one semester to achieve the required GPA. If unattainable within one semester, the declaration of major may be deferred or denied.

For assistance, students should contact their program advisor. All advisors are listed on the Goodwin College of Education website.

Dean’s List

Undergraduate candidates with a declared major, 6 or more credit hours, a semester GPA of 3.80 or higher, and no incomplete grades are eligible for the Dean’s List, which recognizes outstanding academic performance. Graduate students and non-degree students are not eligible.

Graduation and Licensure Requirements

Graduation and licensure requirements for each program are listed in the Academic Catalog. Graduation requirements are determined by NEIU faculty and programs. Licensure requirements are set by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). Questions should be directed to program advisors. All advisors are listed on the Goodwin College of Education website.

Candidacy Policy for Undergraduate Programs

Undergraduate education students qualify as “candidates” for a Bachelor’s degree and, if enrolled in a teacher licensure program, an Illinois Professional Educator License, after they have completed at least 60 credit hours of undergraduate coursework with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and no grades below C in courses required for teacher licensure. Upon the achievement of candidacy, academic advisors will guide students about how to enroll in upper-level courses in their academic major. They also will explain how to create an account in the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS). Advisors are available to assist with account setup questions. As candidates progress toward their degrees and PELs (if enrolled in teacher licensure programs), they are expected to meet additional academic and non-academic standards, as well as all deadlines for graduation and the completion of licensure requirements.

Undergraduate Retention Policy 

Undergraduates who pass the candidacy threshold of 60 credit hours of coursework must maintain specific academic and professional standards in order to graduate and earn a Professional Educator License. Candidates are required to minimally sustain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale, although some programs may demand a higher GPA. Additionally, a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 is necessary in professional education courses; again, the minimum GPA in professional education courses can vary by program, so all candidates should consult regularly with their academic advisors. All professional education courses and majors require a grade of C or better, and certain programs may stipulate a B or better in specific courses. By the time candidates complete 60 credit hours, they must have earned a C or better in ENGL-101, ENGL-102, and a college-level math course worth at least three credit hours. Failure to meet these expectations can result in academic probation, during which time candidates are excluded from the completion of clinical experiences, practicums, internships, and student teaching.

Undergraduate Probation and Petition for Extension Procedures

When candidates fail to meet the retention requirements for their academic major or licensure program, the department chair or a designated representative (e.g., program coordinator) will notify them in writing of their probationary status. The notification letter will outline the academic probation, next steps, and whether the candidate may register for professional sequence courses without prior authorization. If a candidate is required to obtain authorization to enroll in professional sequence courses, they must obtain it at least two weeks before the semester begins. Failure to request authorization or registering without it will result in the Department Chair requesting an Administrative Withdrawal, in accordance with the policy outlined below. 

During probationary periods, candidates have one subsequent term to raise their cumulative GPA to the required standard and possibly one additional semester to retake a professional education course (if that is the only option for a retake). Professional education courses can only be retaken once by candidates in the Goodwin College of Education.

Candidates on probation should regularly meet with their academic advisors throughout the probationary period. They also must consult the Department Chair to determine which courses they may register for during probation. The Department Chair’s authorization is required to enroll in professional sequence courses.

Candidates on probation are encouraged to utilize available academic and social support services. At the end of the probationary period, the department chair or a designated representative will notify the candidate in writing whether the probation terms have been met. Failure to meet the probation terms will result in dismissal from the program, with notification sent to the University Registrar after a five-day petition period. The notification will consist of a memo signed by the Department Chair and sent to the Registrar, who will then reclassify the student as an undeclared major.

Candidates may petition for an extension of their probation within five business days of receiving a program dismissal notification. The petition must be submitted to the Department Chair via official university email, and it should be addressed to the Professional Standards Committee (PSC). The petition should describe in detail any exceptional circumstances that the candidate faced during their probationary period.

The PSC will evaluate the petition and may conduct a hearing with the student. Within 15 business days, the PSC will communicate their decision to the candidate, program advisor, Department Chair, and, if the petition is denied and dismissal is recommended, the University Registrar. During summer terms, when PSC members are unavailable, the Department Chair will make the decision following the same process and timeframe. If the petition is denied, candidates may appeal within 15 business days by emailing the Office of the Dean at gcoe@neiu.edu. The Dean or their designee will review the appeal, potentially consulting the Appeals Committee for a hearing and recommendation. The Dean’s decision is final and will be communicated to all relevant parties. If the appeal is denied, the Dean will submit a signed memo of dismissal to the Registrar, who will reclassify the student as an undeclared major.

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Policy

The Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) policy, aligned with Illinois State Board of Education requirements, allows teacher candidates in the Goodwin College of Education to earn academic credit for college-level learning gained through prior professional or personal experiences, as outlined in Illinois Administrative Rules for the Professional Educator License. 

Credit for Prior Learning is awarded solely through portfolio evaluation, applicable to approved teacher licensure programs for up to 12 credit hours in the Professional Pedagogy Sequence. General Education, minor requirements, and other non-pedagogy courses are ineligible, and no partial credit is granted. Students may attempt CPL once per course and must pay a fee of $100 per credit hour before portfolio submission. ISBE Form 83-85 is used to verify the awarding of Credit for Prior Learning and is uploaded to the candidate’s ELIS account before program completion.

To request Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) for a specific course, students must follow these steps:

1. Consult with Program Coordinator or Graduate Advisor: Meet with the program coordinator or graduate advisor to discuss the CPL request, including the course and equivalent prior experience. The advisor will provide guidance on the process and required documentation.

2. Submit Petition: Prepare a written petition specifying the course and a brief narrative describing the equivalent experience for CPL. Obtain a letter of support from the program coordinator or graduate advisor. Send both the petition and the letter to gcoe@neiu.edu, addressed to the Associate Dean.

3. Receive Decision: The Associate Dean, in consultation with the program, will evaluate the petition’s merit and notify the student of approval or denial within 10 business days.

   • If Approved: Proceed to step 4.

   • If Denied: The student may appeal to the Dean by submitting a written appeal with supporting documentation to gcoe@neiu.edu, addressed to the Dean, within 5 business days of receiving the decision. The Dean will render a final decision within 10 business days.

4. Pay Fee: Upon approval, pay a fee of $100 per credit hour to the Office of Student Payment Services.

5. Receive Portfolio Instructions: After payment processing, the Associate Dean will send a letter with details on electronic portfolio submission and the evaluation process.

For approved CPL petitions, students must follow these steps to submit and have their portfolio evaluated:

1. Assign Evaluator and Obtain Syllabus: The Associate Dean, in consultation with the department chair, will identify a program faculty member with expertise to evaluate the portfolio. The faculty member will receive $80 per credit hour for evaluation. The student will receive the course syllabus to align the portfolio with the course’s objectives.

2. Develop Action Plan: Meet with the assigned faculty evaluator to create an action plan, including due dates and a final submission deadline (not exceeding 10 weeks). The faculty member will share the action plan with the Department Chair, program advisor, and Associate Dean.

3. Submit Portfolio: Prepare a portfolio and submit it electronically per instructions provided by the Dean’s Office. Each portfolio must have the following components:

   • Course Narrative: A detailed written narrative, comparable to a major term paper, demonstrating mastery of the course’s subject area. The narrative must discuss relevant theories, concepts, and corresponding literature, supported by thorough documentation (see Component 4).

   • Autobiographical Statement: A written statement introducing the student to the faculty evaluator, providing context for their experiential learning. The statement should describe the student’s learning experiences, personal values as a learner, and short- and long-term educational goals.

   • Chronological Record: A detailed account of significant life and professional experiences relevant to the student’s learning, listed in chronological order. This record should describe each event, including the circumstances and learning outcomes, since the student began working in the professional field.

   • Documentation: Supporting materials that substantiate the experiential claims in the Course Narrative. Examples include job descriptions, employer letters, certificates, work products (e.g., lesson plans, assessments, instructional videos, rubrics), transcripts, performance evaluations, or employee records.

4. Portfolio Evaluation: The faculty evaluator will assess the portfolio within 13 business days using a rubric aligned with The Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) Standards. The portfolio must demonstrate equivalent experience for all course objectives and credit hours; no partial credit is awarded.

   • Positive Evaluation: The student earns a grade of “P” and the full credit hours for the course.

   • Negative Evaluation: The student must register for and pass the course to earn credit. Only one CPL attempt per course is allowed.

Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment Policies

The Goodwin College of Education upholds a comprehensive set of policies to foster a safe, equitable, and inclusive academic environment. These policies, applicable to all students, are outlined in the NEIU Student Handbook. They include: the Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources, ensuring responsible technology use; the Alcohol Policy, prohibiting alcohol on campus except at approved events; the Classroom Disruption Policy, addressing behaviors that interfere with learning; the Undergraduate and Graduate Grade Appeal Policies, outlining procedures for the reconsideration of grades; the Equal Opportunity and Nondiscrimination Policy, prohibiting discrimination and harassment; the Sexual Discrimination Policy, providing support and procedures for individuals who have experienced sexual harassment; the Policy on Reasonable Accommodation for Volunteer Emergency Workers, supporting student first responders; and the Use of Artificial Intelligence Policy, guiding ethical AI use. Students are expected to familiarize themselves with these policies, and to uphold the University’s values of integrity, diversity, and community.

Academic Misconduct Policies

The NEIU Student Code of Conduct outlines acts of academic misconduct. Academic misconduct includes cheating; encouraging academic dishonesty; fabrication; misrepresentation to avoid academic work; and plagiarism. Consequences may involve adjusting the grade downward (including F - failure) for the test, paper, or course, or other course-related activity in question. When academic misconduct occurs, the faculty member will notify the student, the Department/Unit Head, and the Associate Dean of the Goodwin College of Education using a Program Performance Alert Form. The student has the right to appeal the grade that results from this process (see Grade Appeal Policy in the Student Handbook). The faculty member also may request additional or other action—such as dismissal from the program or university—using the Program Performance Alert Form. Students and faculty with questions about this policy and process should contact the Dean’s Office of the Goodwin College of Education for more information.

Non-Academic Misconduct Policies

Non-academic misconduct also is addressed in the NEIU Student Handbook. In the Handbook, non-academic misconduct encompasses furnishing false information; forgery; obstruction/disruption of university activities; abuse/threat of abuse to other people; theft/property damage; being an accessory to prohibited conduct; unauthorized use of University facilities; violation of University regulations and policies; drug-related offenses; alcohol violations; lewd/obscene behavior; unauthorized weapon possession; failure to comply with university representatives; hazing; intimidation/humiliation; violation of the terms of any misconduct sanction imposed in accordance with University policy; behavior which causes or threatens to cause harm or creates a pattern of extreme disruption; misuse or unauthorized use of computer technologies; coercion; unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material; and other violations of local, state, or federal law. If non-academic misconduct of the type defined in the NEIU Student Handbook occurs in the Goodwin College of Education, it will be reported to the Vice President of Student Affairs/Dean of Students, using the Non-Academic Misconduct Reporting Form available on the university website. Students and faculty with questions about this policy and process should contact the Dean’s Office of the Goodwin College of Education for more information.

Professional Standards and Expectations

Programs in the Goodwin College of Education may have their own professional standards that are aligned with accreditation and/or licensure requirements. These standards and expectations are communicated in student handbooks developed by programs, such as the Department of Counselor Education Student Handbook and the NEIU Teacher Candidate Handbook. Students are expected to familiarize themselves with these program-level policies, as well as the procedures that will be followed should performance issues arise in the contexts of professional education coursework and clinical experiences.

Professional Standards Committees

Each department in the Goodwin College of Education is responsible for organizing Professional Standards Committees (PSCs). Professional Standards Committees are responsible for reviewing academic, non-academic, and professional conduct and performance concerns that arise in the contexts of academic coursework and clinical experiences.

Each Professional Standards Committee has a chair and is composed of at least three faculty members from the program or department. PSC Chairs are responsible for convening the committees in response to conduct, concerns or petitions reported to it. The committees are expected to meet within 10 working days of receipt of reports.

PSCs are responsible for investigating and reviewing all reports that are referred to them. The PSC investigates by collecting documents and holding a hearing that involves the student, faculty, staff, or other relevant university personnel. Within 10 working days of the hearing, the PSC will deliver a written recommendation to the Department Chair. This recommendation may include a remediation plan with specific actions and deadlines for meeting professional standards and expectations; in cases where remediation is not deemed possible or appropriate, the PSC may recommend dismissal from the program. Within three working days of receipt of the recommendation, the Department Chair will render a decision. The decision will be communicated to the candidate, the PSC Chair, and other appropriate faculty or staff. Candidates can appeal the decisions of Chairs using the Miscellaneous Appeal Policy.

Miscellaneous Appeal Policy

The Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education (GCOE) provides students the right to appeal decisions made by a department chair or the Associate Dean. Please note that this Miscellaneous Appeal Policy does not apply to topics covered by specific appeal policies outlined in the NEIU Student Handbook (e.g., grade appeals).

Students may appeal a decision made by a department chair or the Associate Dean within five business days of receiving the decision. To pursue an appeal, the student shall follow these steps:

1. Write a Formal Letter: The student must compose a formal letter detailing the reasons for appealing the decision, including appropriate supporting documentation/evidence.

2. Submit the Appeal: The student shall send the written appeal and supporting documentation/evidence to the Goodwin College of Education Dean’s Office, to the attention of the Dean, via email at COE@neiu.edu.

The Dean will evaluate the appeal within 10 business days and may uphold the original decision of the department chair or Associate Dean or issue a new decision. If necessary, the Dean may convene the Appeals Committee to hold a hearing to assess the appeal’s merits and provide a written recommendation. The Dean will then render a final decision, which is binding, and notify all relevant parties. If the decision results in program dismissal, the Dean will provide the Registrar with a signed memo, and the Registrar’s Office will reassign the student to the undeclared major category.

Administrative Withdrawal Policy

Programs and departments in the Goodwin College of Education may require students to withdraw from courses when they do not meet retention requirements, professional standards and expectations, and/or licensure requirements. If a student fails to drop or withdraw within 10 business days of a communication to do so, a memo from the Department Chair will be provided to the Registrar's Office to facilitate an administrative withdrawal.

Exceptions Policy

The Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education (GCOE) allows admitted students with unusual and/or extenuating circumstances to petition for exceptions to published GCOE policies. Please note that this Exceptions Policy does not apply to topics covered by specific petition policies outlined in the NEIU Student Handbook (e.g., grade appeals).

To pursue a petition for an exception to an existing policy, the student shall follow these steps:

1. Consult with an Academic Program Representative: The student must consult with their academic program representative (e.g., academic/faculty advisor, program coordinator, or department chair) to discuss the petition. This consultation ensures that the student is fully informed about the process and receives guidance on general petition information and required documentation/evidence.

2. Write a Formal Letter: The student must compose a formal letter detailing the nature and reason(s) for the petition, including appropriate supporting documentation/evidence.

3. Submit the Petition: The student shall send the written petition and supporting documentation/evidence to the Dean’s Office, to the attention of the Associate Dean, via email at COE@neiu.edu.

The Associate Dean will evaluate the petition’s merit and, within 10 business days, inform the student whether the petition is accepted or denied. If deemed necessary, the Associate Dean may request the Appeals Committee to hold a hearing to discuss the petition’s merits and provide a recommendation. The Appeals Committee will submit its recommendation in writing to the Associate Dean, who will then render a final decision. All relevant parties will be notified of the decision.

Grievance Policy

Students are encouraged to address perceived unfairness or conflicts of perspective by first attempting to resolve them at the course or program level. If these efforts fail and further review is deemed necessary by any involved party, grievances should be submitted as outlined on the Goodwin College of Education and Northeastern Illinois University websites.

Office of Clinical Experiences and School Partnerships (CESP) 

The Office of Clinical Experiences and School Partnerships (CESP) oversees clinical experiences required for candidates pursuing an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL). These experiences—conducted in diverse settings such as public, charter, private, and parochial schools, child care centers, and community agencies—are designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed to educate diverse student populations. CESP collaborates with school partners to secure placements that comply with CAEP Standards, Illinois State Law, school policies, and Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) regulations.

Clinical experiences, including student teaching, are integral components of licensure programs. Candidates are supervised by a licensed teacher at the placement site and a university supervisor, with evaluations conducted by both. Successful completion of both field-based and university-based components (e.g., seminars, coursework) is mandatory for course completion.

Communication

All CESP communications will be sent exclusively through Nmail, the official Northeastern Illinois University email system. Students must regularly check their NEIU email account to stay informed about CESP updates, deadlines, and requirements.

Clinical and Student Teaching Application Process

Candidates must attend a mandatory CESP information session (live or recorded via D2L) to learn about application procedures, policies, expectations, and timelines. Applications for clinical experiences and student teaching are submitted one year in advance of each experience. The applications are submitted electronically, via D2L and Google, with deadlines in November (for fall experiences) and May (for spring experiences). A new application is required for each clinical experience.

Consistent with the NEIU Student Handbook, candidates needing accommodations at their placement sites for physical and/or learning disabilities must inform the CESP Director by the clinical or student teaching application deadline. Early notification enables timely collaboration with placement sites to arrange appropriate supports, ensuring a smooth placement process and a high-quality experience.

Requirements for Field-Based Courses

Candidates for licensure must meet the following requirements before enrolling in courses with field-based components (excluding EDFN courses):

1. A minimum overall GPA of 2.5/4.0 for undergraduates and 3.0/4.0 for graduate students.

2. A minimum GPA in professional education courses and majors that is consistent with program requirements.

3. Grades of “C” or better in all required professional education courses.

4. Conversion of all “I” grades to “C” or better in professional education and major courses.

5. Evidence of freedom from tuberculosis and communicable diseases (TB test dated within one year for clinical students, 90 days for student teachers).

6. Grades in prior clinical experiences that meet the minimum program requirements (unless retaking the course).

7. Additional departmental or program-specific requirements, including remediation plans if applicable.

8. Illinois State Police and Federal Fingerprint background check for pre-student teaching placements.

9. LIVESCAN Illinois State Police and Federal Fingerprint background check (within 90 days) for student teaching.

10. Completion of Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Field Experience Registration and Student Teaching Online Application (if applicable).

11. Departmental approval.

12. Attempting at least once the Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) content-area test prior to student teaching. Deadlines are communicated by the CESP Office.

13. Attendance at the Goodwin College of Education Student Teaching Orientation.

Registration for Field-Based Courses

To register for courses with field-based components, candidates must:

1. Submit application materials and required items to CESP by the stated deadlines.

2. Receive final approval from CESP and the academic department based on program requirements.

3. Register for courses using standard university procedures. 

Candidates not fully registered or who do not adhere to payment schedules will not be permitted to report to placement sites. Reporting to a site without full registration or after course removal (e.g., for non-payment) is not allowed and may result in the filing of a Program Performance Alert Form by the CESP Office. 

Placement Policies

CESP solely manages placements, which are determined by CAEP Standards, Illinois State Law, school requirements, and supervisor availability. Placement sites cannot be guaranteed, and some placements may require interviews, background checks, TB tests, or physical exams. Candidates unsuccessful in two interviews at two different placement sites will not receive further placement attempts.

• Changes in Placement: Once confirmed, placements cannot be changed without CESP approval.

• Conflicts of Interest: Placements will not be made at schools that candidates attended, nor in schools or districts where they serve on boards or have family/significant others employed or enrolled.

• Self-Placement: Unless given written permission to do so, candidates may not contact schools to secure placements. Evidence of unauthorized contact will result in the filing of a Program Performance Alert Form by the CESP Office. 

Placement Locations: Placements will be made within a 25-mile radius of NEIU’s Main Campus, in diverse settings, and in alignment with the candidate’s PEL endorsement grade range:

Placement

PEL Endorsement	Placement
Early Childhood Education	Birth-Grade 2
Elementary Education	Grades 1-6
Middle Level Education	Grades 5-8 (specific subject)
Secondary Education	Grades 9-12 (specific subject)
PK-12 Education Programs	PK-12 (specific subject)
Special Education	K-Age 21

Returning to Clinical Sites for Student Teaching

Candidates may request to return to their clinical placement sites for student teaching if:

1. They have completed at least one field experience in a diverse setting.

2. The school/district approves the return.

3. The program coordinator or department chair approves the return.

CESP will contact candidates during the third week of the fall/spring semester to inquire about returning to clinical sites. Requests must be submitted in writing within 10 working days. Late requests may not be accommodated if other placements are pending or confirmed. If a site declines the candidate, CESP will seek an alternative placement. 

Placements with Employers

Candidates employed full-time in school settings may request to complete pre-student teaching clinicals and/or student teaching at their workplaces, subject to approval from their school administrations and program coordinators and/or department chairs. Requirements include:

• Submission of a “School Administrator Agreement” form, signed by the principal/district administrator and a cooperating teacher in the licensure area, by the application deadline.

• For clinicals, candidates must arrange to complete required hours while employed.

• For student teaching, candidates must take a leave of absence or resign, unless a petition for compensation is approved (see Compensated Student Teaching Policy).

Within the first three weeks of the semester, the Office of Clinical Experiences and School Partnerships (CESP) will contact student teaching applicants to initiate the placement process. Within five business days of this communication, candidates must submit their requests for placements with full-time employers. Late requests may not be accommodated if other placements are pending or confirmed. If a placement site declines a candidate, CESP will promptly seek an alternative placement.

Out-of-Area Placements

Candidates moving out of state may request to complete student teaching as a guest at a CAEP-accredited institution. If approved, candidates register at NEIU, pay tuition/fees, and follow CESP-defined supervision procedures, with potential additional fees paid to the host institution. Contact the CESP Office for more information.

Clinical Hours Waiver Policy

The Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education (GCOE) allows teacher candidates to request a waiver of clinical hours, with the exception of student teaching, when significant school-based employment has occurred prior to NEIU field placement. To request a waiver of clinical hours associated with a required course, students must follow these steps:

1. Prepare Petition: Submit a written petition to the Associate Dean and Licensure Officer at gcoe@neiu.edu, explaining how your prior experience meets the clinical hours required by the program. The petition must include supporting documentation as evidence (e.g., job descriptions, employer letters, certificates, work products, or performance evaluations).

2. Submit Petition: Send the petition and documentation at least one semester before registering for the required course. In the Spring Semester, submit your petition by March 15 and in the Fall Semester by October 15. 

3. Receive Decision: The Associate Dean and Licensure Officer, in consultation with the program coordinator, will evaluate the petition and notify the student in writing within 5 weeks of receipt whether a full, partial, or no waiver of clinical hours is granted. The decision of the Associate Dean is final and is not appealable using the Miscellaneous Appeal Policy.

Health and Background Requirements

• TB Test: Candidates must provide evidence of freedom from tuberculosis (Mantoux test) within one year (clinicals) or 90 days (student teaching). Tests can be obtained at NEIU Health Services or external providers, with results verified by NEIU Health Services.

• Physical Exam: Per Illinois School Code 105 ILCS 5/24-5, some schools may require a physical exam within 90 days of placement. The exam may be conducted by a licensed physician, advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant.

• Background Checks: LIVESCAN Illinois State Police and Federal Fingerprint background checks are required for pre-student teaching (at enrollment) and student teaching (within 90 days). Additional checks may be required by specific sites. Certain convictions (e.g., felonies, sex/drug offenses) may disqualify candidates from placement or licensure.

Insurance and Liability

Candidates are encouraged to maintain health insurance for medical, mental health, and prescription needs. School districts provide liability protection per Illinois law (105 ILCS 5/10-20.20, 5/10-22.3).

Student Teacher Orientation

Attendance at the Student Teacher Orientation is mandatory. A Program Performance Alert Form will be completed by the CESP Office for all student teachers who fail to attend the orientation. Student teachers who are employed and teaching in their own classrooms may request an exemption from attendance if the event conflicts with their school calendar. 

Clinical and Student Teaching Seminars

Clinical and student teaching courses include mandatory seminars that follow the NEIU calendar. Seminars cover specific content, assignments, and reflections on field experiences. Candidates must succeed in both field-based and non-field-based components to pass their courses. Final grades are assigned by course instructors, with input from cooperating teachers. Consult course syllabi for more information.

A grade of “A” or “B” is required in student teaching to qualify for licensure. A “C” or “D” grade in student teaching may allow graduation, but not licensure.

Candidates earning less than a “B” in a student teaching course must appeal to their Department Chair for re-enrollment in a semester subsequent to the one following the semester in which the grade was earned. The same policy applies in programs that require a minimum grade of “B” in clinical courses. Department Chairs will forward all appeals to their Professional Standards Committees, following the policy and process outlined in the GCOE Policies: Professional Standards Committees section of this catalog.

In extenuating circumstances, Incomplete (“I”) grades may be requested. Incomplete grades and grade appeals follow the policies and processes outlined in the Academic Catalog and NEIU Student Handbook. 

Calendars and Scheduling

Candidates enrolled in clinical experiences follow the NEIU calendar for holidays/vacations. Clinical hours are scheduled in half-day increments, spread across the semester, and approved by the cooperating teacher and university supervisor within two weeks of the semester start. Changes require written approval from the cooperating teacher and university supervisor.

Candidates enrolled in student teaching follow the school/district calendar for holidays and vacations, beginning and ending on NEIU’s semester dates. Candidates must avoid scheduling conflicts with school calendars, including professional development days.

Field-Based Support

Teacher candidates receive extensive support during field-based experiences.

1. University Supervisor Support: University supervisors are responsible for addressing issues related to academic performance—such as tardiness, absences, missing assignments, grades, and class participation—but also instructional performance at placement sites. At their discretion, university supervisors will ask cooperating teachers to participate in discussions with candidates about areas and plans for improvement.

2. CESP Office Support: If a placement is interrupted due to staffing changes or for some other non-performance reason beyond the control of the university or the candidate, CESP will secure a new placement within the current semester. 

3. Program Level Support: In some instances, teacher candidates in clinical placements may experience significant issues related to professional dispositions and/or instructional performance. Significant issues can trigger a Program Performance Alert, leading either to a program intervention (for the purpose of developing a remediation plan) or, in rare cases, a Professional Standards Committee Referral (in the event that program dismissal is recommended). Program interventions will minimally involve the candidate, university supervisor, CESP Director, and the program coordinator and/or department chair. The outcome of these interventions is a Professional Improvement Plan, to be completed either a) over the duration of the remainder of the experience, or b) in an experience in a subsequent semester. Candidates who do not attend the program intervention or who do not fulfill the requirements of their Professional Improvement Plan will be terminated from their placements and will be referred to the appropriate Professional Standards Committee for possible program dismissal.

Terminations

• Self-Terminations: Candidates who contemplate ending their placement before it is completed must discuss their plans with their university supervisors and the CESP Director before notifying their cooperating teachers or school sites. A final decision to self-terminate must be submitted to the CESP Director in writing, prior to implementation. Candidates who self-terminate must withdraw from courses per university procedures. Subsequent to the semester of self-termination, candidates have the option of submitting a petition for re-enrollment in clinical/student teaching courses to their Department Chair. Department Chairs will forward all petitions to their Professional Standards Committee, following the policy and process outlined in the GCOE Policies: Professional Standards Committees section of this catalog.

• School Terminations: In rare instances, schools will terminate the placements of candidates who are not meeting professional expectations. When such terminations occur, candidates must cease contact with their school sites and participate in a Termination Review Process. 

Termination Review Process

School terminations are communicated to candidates by the CESP Director. Candidates must immediately stop all placement site activities. The Program Coordinator or Department Chair leads the review process, and will work with the CESP Director to collect all relevant information (e.g., assessments, observation reports, emails). Within 10 working days of the termination notification, the Program Coordinator or Department Chair convenes a meeting with the candidate, university supervisor, and CESP Director to review the termination. Additional NEIU faculty or school personnel may be invited to provide input. Within five working days of the meeting, the Program Coordinator or Department Chair communicates one of two outcomes:

1. Remediation: If the issues that led to the termination are addressable, the Program Coordinator or Department Chair will develop and approve a Professional Improvement Plan. The plan will specify how to proceed with the current course and what needs to be done to earn approval to re-enroll in a clinical/student teaching course in a subsequent semester that does not immediately follow the current one. Candidates who do not attend the Termination Review meeting, or who do not fulfill the requirements of their Professional Improvement Plan, will be referred to the appropriate Professional Standards Committee for possible program dismissal.

2. Dismissal: If remediation is not feasible—or if a candidate fails to attend the Termination Review meeting or does not fulfill the requirements of a Professional Improvement Plan—the Program Coordinator or Department Chair will refer the candidate to the Professional Standards Committee for possible dismissal from the academic and/or licensure program, following the policy and process outlined in the GCOE Policies: Professional Standards Committees section of this catalog.