COMPANY IN YOUR CLASSROOM: Building a Learning Relationship With Your Student Teacher.

COMPANY IN YOUR CLASSROOM: Building a Learning Relationship With Your Student Teacher. M. Watson & A. Schoenblum. Oakland, CA: Developmental Studies Center, 2000. 104 pp. $14.95. This unique handbook has something valuable to offer educators at all stages of their careers. The Development Studies Center conducts research and develops programs and materials that foster the integration of children's ethical, social, and intellectual development. This handbook is an outgrowth of the center's Pre-Service Initiative Program, which was designed to build a network of teacher educators who believe in the importance of preparing teachers to focus on children's social and moral development.

This well-organized handbook begins by suggesting thoughtful steps for the cooperating teacher to take before the student teacher enters the classroom. The authors emphasize establishing a relationship with the student teacher and offer a list of coaching issues and challenges that may arise. The authors also describe how social and ethical learning (i.e., building community) is important to children's academic learning.

Company in Your Classroom contains open and honest comments from cooperating teachers and student teachers, and would be a valuable guide for college students prior to student teaching. This practical, professional, and personal guide will certainly benefit experienced educators, as well. Reviewed by Rita Newman, retired principal, Dallas, Texas