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Last Updated: Oct 23, 2026, 01:44 PM
This addendum serves as an official update to the SIU Clinical Experience Handbook (2026–2027). Following the publication of this handbook, the policy regarding retention in the Teacher Education Program has been updated.
To maintain the safety, security, and ethical standards of our partner schools and to protect minors in educational settings, the Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU) Teacher Education Program requires immediate action if a candidate's background or legal status comes into question.
In the event a teacher candidate is cited, indicted, or arrested for any criminal offense, the Teacher Education Program is to be notified within 24 hours. In the event the offense reasonably impacts the student's fitness to teach, teacher education admission and/or clinical experiences may be suspended pending final resolution of the judicial process. A plea of guilty, nolo contendere, or a judgment of guilty to a criminal offense during a clinical placement will result in the student being dropped from the placement.
Additionally, if a teacher candidate is placed under active investigation by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) - or any equivalent state child welfare or law enforcement agency—regarding allegations of child abuse or neglect, the candidate will be immediately removed from their clinical placement.