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FAQ: Your PE internship

When you major in physical education at Calvin, one of your most exciting semesters is the one you spend as a student teacher. Here are some answers to questions you might have about what this kind of internship looks like.


  • Author: Michal Rubingh
  • Published: September 27, 2019
  • Categories: Academics
  • Author: Michal Rubingh
  • Published: September 27, 2019
  • Categories: Academics

How is student teaching experience incorporated into my education?

As a physical education major at Calvin, you’re required to spend a semester as a student teacher. This internship is broken up into two seven-week placements: one with an elementary school and one with a middle or high school.

Why is it important to have an internship before I graduate? 

The best way to prepare yourself to lead a classroom is to get hands-on experience. As a student teacher, you’ll be the one that your class is looking to for leadership, but you won’t be alone. This will help you develop the skills and confidence you need to excel in any future classroom.

Where will I be student teaching? 

The education department has connections with both local public and private schools and schools throughout the country. Our students intern in cities all over America, including:

  • Redlands, California;
  • Chicago, Illinois; and
  • Midland Park, New Jersey.

What skills will I be practicing? 

Student teaching will give you experience with:

  • planning,
  • lesson delivery,
  • evaluation and assessment,
  • providing feedback, and 
  • management.

Who will give me feedback and how often? 

Your cooperating teacher will give you day-to-day feedback and a summary evaluation at the end of your placement that you can use as a job reference. Your Calvin supervisor will also give you feedback. 

  • Author: Michal Rubingh
  • Published: September 27, 2019
  • Categories: Academics

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