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The “Student Application” is for students participating in an individual practice-based experience.

A completed Student Practice-Based Experience Application and a Criminal Background Authorization form are required to begin the process.  Please submit the paperwork during the first few days of class, or as soon as possible, to ensure a timely placement.  It takes up to 4-6 weeks from receipt of completed paperwork in the Professional Development office for a confirmed placement. 

Student Practice-Based Experience Application requires that Sections I-III and V (including student and professor signatures) be completed.  The application requires that a criminal background form be attached as well as all instructions or conditions of the background clearance be fulfilled to complete the application.  Incomplete applications will not be processed. 

Criminal Background Authorization forms must be submitted along with each Practice-Based Experience Application and is considered part of the application.  The districts authorization forms are available at Stoddard Hall, Room 202C.   Students are required to complete a Criminal Background Authorization form for the school district of their choice (see listing of school districts).  Students may request forms to be mailed by contacting smasten@mail.twu.edu.  If requesting the forms to be mailed, please include your name, mailing address, and the school district of your choice. 

A new “Criminal Background Authorization” form is required each semester.  However, students that are currently working for the district as a substitute or aide may note their position on their Practice-Based Application beside the question concerning the background form.  To avoid delay it is still recommended that all students complete a new authorization form with each Practice-Based Application.    

Several school districts require TB test clearances.   Carrollton-Farmers Branch School District requires TB test clearance prior to all their placements.  Dallas ISD placements in the area of Early Childhood (PK), Special Ed, Deaf Ed or Nursing also require a TB test. (The test must be current within 120 days prior to beginning observation.)  Denton ISD students who have immigrated to the United States are asked to provide proof of TB clearance issued from a state of Texas physician.  Students may go to the health clinic of their choice or the TWU Student Health Services provides this test.  The cost is usually $10-15.  Submit the results to this office.       

There are several other conditions that are required by districts besides TB clearance which vary per district.  See Sharon Masten at Stoddard Hall, Room 202C for forms and additional information.   Each student will be informed of the conditions as per his/her district choice.  For example, students without social security numbers may be asked to obtain a letter of good standing from the Student Life office, or a student may have to purchase a badge at the district, or submit a resume along with his/her background form.   

Submit original Student Practice-Based Experience Application along with the Criminal Authorization Background form to:  Sharon Masten, College of Professional Education, Texas Woman’s University, P. O. Box 425769, Denton, TX  76204-5769 or deliver to Sharon at Stoddard Hall, Room 202C.   After criminal background approval and confirmation of the practicum placement by the school district, the student and professor will be contacted by email from our office.  Allow 4-6 weeks from our receipt of the completed paperwork for confirmation.   

If you have questions concerning placements please email:   smasten@mail.twu.edu