R277-308-3. LEA Induction Programs

(1) An LEA shall provide an induction program for the LEA's licensed employees if: (a) an educator holds an associate educator license; or (b) an educator holds a professional educator license with less than three years experience. (2) An LEA shall provide an induction program for at least three years for employees with an LEA-specific educator license. (3) An induction program under this rule shall include, at a minimum: (a) a plan for on-going support and development of an educator, which may include reflective goal setting, implementation of action steps, and evaluation of outcomes that lead to refinement in instructional practice; (b) LEA support in meeting the requirements of a professional license for an individual who holds an associate license; (c) mentor observation and feedback for each educator beginning early in the program; (d) principal observation and feedback for each educator as required by Rule R277-533; and (e) assistance in meeting the pedagogical requirements described in Subsection R277-301-5(5). (4) An induction plan under Subsection (1) shall provide a new educator with a trained mentor educator with a professional educator license. (5) A trained mentor educator under Subsection (3) shall assist the educator to meet the Utah Effective Educator Standards established in Rule R277-330. (6) A trained mentor educator may not have responsibility to evaluate a new educator for whom the educator acts as mentor. (7) An LEA and a Utah approved education preparation program may partner in implementing the induction program required by Subsection (1). (8) The Superintendent shall: (a) develop a model induction program, including model competencies for mentors; (b) provide training for mentors based on the competencies developed in accordance with Subsection (8)(a); (c) provide training for principals to oversee and support mentor training; and (d) facilitate the sharing of best practices among LEAs.