THE TEACHER PLACEMENT FILE - Frequently Asked Questions

What is a "Teacher Placement File?"

This is a file that contains the cooperating teacher and supervising teacher evaluations and letters of recommendation, an unofficial transcript, and your graduation report.

 

Where is the "Teacher Placement File" located and why do I need one?

The file is kept on a computer database in the Teacher Career Services Office and it is required by most school districts as part of your interview or application process.

 

What letters of recommendation go in my "Teacher Placement File?"

Letters of recommendation from people who have seen you teach can be copied and attached to the resume but ONLY your student teaching reports go into the file.

 

How and when do I start a "Teacher Placement File?"

You do not need to do anything to begin your "Teacher Placement File". The file is started by the Student Teaching Office as soon as they receive your student teaching reports. Registration on YCareers (www.byui.edu/ycareers) with a resume is needed to register with the Teacher Career Services Office and should be started as you begin your senior year.

 

Can I see what is in my "Teacher Placement File?"

Yes, your file is an "open" file. In other words you have access to the file. A "closed" file is not accessible to you. BYU-Idaho does not have any "closed" files.

 

Can I keep a copy of my "Teacher Placement File?"

Yes, a teacher placement file is governed by the same laws as a college transcript and you can have a copy. But, most recruiters prefer to have the "official" file sent from the Teacher Career Services Office.

 

How do I send my "Teacher Placement File?" 

Simply send an email to teacherplacement@byui.edu and let us know the name and email address of the person who has requested your file and the name of the school or district.

 

Is there a fee to send my "Teacher Placement File?"

There is NO fee to email or fax your file but there is a $10 PREPAID fee to mail the file. Please make sure that the recruiter or school district has requested your file. DO NOT send files to those schools where you would like to teach unless you have contacted them and they request the file. They do not like email spam.

 

How long does BYU-Idaho keep my "Teacher Placement File?"

The file will be kept at the Teacher Career Services Office for four years after you graduate. After four years the file will be sent to you. The file is then your property.

 

What am I to do with my "Teacher Placement File" after it is sent to me?

The file is your property. You are free to update your resume and letters of recommendation. If you have been teaching your student teaching reports will be outdated and should be replaced by new letters of recommendation from your principal or other teachers.