Prior to student teaching, all teacher education candidates participate in extensive field-based experiences in which they have opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills gained from education courses taken. In order to take part in these field/practicum experiences in local schools, students are required to have a background check through Ohio's Bureau of Criminal and Investigation and Identification (BCI&I). Information about acquiring a background investigation will be given to the student prior to their placement in the field.
Additionally, students are required to have valid State and Federal background clearances (Ohio BCI&I and FBI) in effect at the time of application for license. These reports must be initiated prior to the student teaching term and are valid for one year from the date of the initial check. Candidates are provided with information about the acquisition of these reports at the beginning of their final year.