Why this topic?

Q&A #1 Groups of 2-3  What methods does the Commonwealth and the federal government employ to limit the exposure of P-12 students to teachers whose prior history or personal health may be undesirable?  Record your answers on a separate sheet, remember to include your full name

Answer #1 – Already know this  Department of Public Welfare Child Abuse History Clearance (Act 151)  89&A= &A=13  Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal Records Check (Act 34)  96&A= &A=13  Federal Criminal History Record Information  = =  Request that a paper copy be mailed to you (extra $2.50)  TB test results  Required for WCU admission (TB Test #1)

Q&A #2  You may be unaware that any criminal history may result in consequences relating to your ability to become a teacher.  What are some possible violations that can affect your degree? Answer with 5, avoid the obvious answers.  Answers: 1, 212  Again, record answers in your group

Q&A #3  Now that you are aware of some of the violations that could result in a criminal record, do they have any consequence in terms of obtaining your degree or getting a job?  No, why not?  Yes, how so?

Answer #3  All infractions become part of your criminal record history.  That means when asked on a teaching application whether you have a criminal record, you must answer yes.  Answer varies if the application asks whether you have been convicted of a felony.  If you are convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, you ARE NOT AND WILL NEVER BE eligible for teacher licensure in the Commonwealth of PA  Pamphlet from PA Liquor Control Board Pamphlet from PA Liquor Control Board

Q&A #4  Can anything be done if you have or develop a criminal record?  Recourse Recourse  If a violation is expunged, you may answer “no” when asked if you have a criminal record.

Q&A #5  If the consequences of obtaining a criminal record are so severe, why do some teacher candidates still develop one?  “Smug” – Judge Knapp (outsmart police)  “Never get caught” – cops know every trick in the book, just depends whether they choose to pursue  Alcohol in a coke at a football game, fake ID’s on Gay St.  Ignorance  Students booked for celebrations after Phillies win last year (disorderly conduct, noise, rubbish…etc)

Discussion  Do you think the laws and/or their consequences are fair?  Does anyone know of an individual whose criminal record had negative implications for their career?  What other impressions do you have from today’s topic?