Candidate Attitudes Rubric
In addition to high academic performance in their coursework, we expect candidates to develop
as “collaborative professionals.” To assist with this development, we ask that collaborating
teachers and supervisors rate candidates’ professional attitudes using the following rubric. To
successfully complete the program, candidates must score in the overall target range. Candidates
also complete a professional attitudes self-assessment.
Level 1:
UNSATISFACTORY Dispositions of a First Year Teacher
Evidence shows that the teacher candidate has little or no understanding of the concept or of the
relationship between the concept and P-12 learning. Acquisition of the disposition will require
substantial preparation to advance beyond this level. An action/remediation plan or additional
coursework is essential to ameliorate dispositions.
Level 2:
BASIC/LIMITED Dispositions of a First Year Teacher
Teacher candidate demonstrates awareness and importance of the concept but needs
development/improvement. Application to the P-12 setting is lacking or is superficial,
inconsistent or constrained. An action/remediation plan OR additional coursework is advised
to ameliorate dispositions.
Level 3:
APPROACHING Dispositions of a First Year Teacher
Teacher candidate shows a developing knowledge base of the concept and exhibits the disposition
to expand that knowledge base. Further development requires targeted time, opportunities, or
special assignments. Ability to apply the concept with consistency and to the degree expected
needs prompting (assistance) and practice. Potential for development is evident.
Level 4:
TARGET Dispositions of a First Year Teacher
Teacher candidate demonstrates the disposition consistently enough to be successful
independently. Additional experiences or mentoring may be recommended for further
development but additional university supervision or structured field experiences are not
warranted.
Level 5:
EXCEEDING Dispositions of a First Year Teacher
Teacher candidate shows autonomy of thinking and responsibility for this disposition. Candidate
exceeds the disposition at target level by drawing upon a rich knowledge base of understanding
incorporated into innovative teaching or professional practice. Intentionally seeks ways to enrich
understanding or minimize noted gaps.
Critical and Creative Thinking
Demonstrates creativity, curiosity, critical thinking, commitment to higher-order thinking
and learning, invention, scholarly mindset
1
2
3
4
5
Comments:
Reflective Practices
Demonstrates accurate self-assessment and realistic critique; evident meta-awareness
1
2
3
4
5
Comments:
Equity and Fair-mindedness
Demonstrates equity, democracy, cultural sensitivity and responsiveness; demonstrates
respect for and value in individual difference and an asset-model of understanding
1
2
3
4
5
Comments:
Professional Responsibility
Demonstrates punctuality, positive demeanor, appropriate appearance, dependability,
reliability, and professional preparation
1
2
3
4
5
Comments:
Effective Communication
Adheres to professional conventions and expectations in face-to-face, written, and digital
communication; demonstrates expertise in Standard American English; meets
expectations communicating with students, peers, colleagues, administrators, parents, and
the public
1
2
3
4
5
Comments:
Initiative
Anticipates, identifies, and solves problems; meets professional needs and expectations
1
2
3
4
5
Comments:
Is this candidate making satisfactory progress?
____ Yes, candidate is displaying appropriate dispositions.
____ No, administrative follow-up recommended for dispositions issues indicated above.