College in the Schools - Teacher Qualifications

Writing Laboratory - Basic Writing

(PSTL 1421: Writing Laboratory - Basic Writing)

To qualify for selection, teachers must have significant experience working with English language learners and demonstrated excellence in teaching writing at the advanced level. Significant post-secondary course work also is required; a graduate degree in Teaching English as a Second Language, in Education, in Second-Languages and Cultures Education or the equivalent is desirable.

CIS Basic Writing teachers are typically people with a proven commitment to identifying and encouraging ELL students whose skills would not qualify them for advanced-placement courses but who might acquire college-level skills with a carefully scaffolded curriculum.

College in the Schools teachers are approved by the University of Minnesota academic department from which the course is offered. CIS teachers are typically lifelong learners, committed to staying current with both pedagogy and content through reading and ongoing professional development. They are energetic and committed to challenging both themselves and their students. CIS teachers value participation in a true community of learners.

At least a few years' experience at the site where they will teach the CIS course also is helpful for identifying students and for managing administrative tasks.