Clinical Preparation of Teachers in the Context of a University-Wide Community Engagement Emphasis

In this article, we describe development of a clinical model of teacher education connected to a community engagement commitment of the university known as the Signature Partnership Initiative. The current clinical model builds upon previously established collaborations of the College of Education and Human Development with district and school partners to offer a more authentic, comprehensive, and systemic approach to preparing new teachers and supporting the continued learning of experienced teachers. The development and implementation of the clinical model in two elementary schools and one middle school have provided evidence of both benefits and challenges. The article provides three descriptive narratives that elaborate on these and offers insights about essential components and research possibilities needed for improving the quality and outcomes of university–school clinical partnerships for teacher education.