Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)

MOU Request Form

What is an MOU?

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is a formal agreement between SUNY and a partner school district that establishes the terms for student teaching placements. Unlike contracts with vendors, MOUs are designed specifically to outline cooperative educational relationships.

These agreements ensure that:

  • SUNY students have appropriate and approved sites for completing student teaching requirements.
  • Responsibilities of the campus, the school district, and the student are clearly defined.
  • Student teaching placements comply with SUNY and New York State Education Department requirements.

When is an MOU Required?

An MOU must be in place when:

  • A student will be assigned to a school district for student teaching as part of their academic program.
  • The school district requires a formal agreement before accepting student teachers.
  • The campus needs to establish an ongoing relationship with a district for recurring placements.
  • A formal agreement is needed with another NYS agency.

How to Request an MOU

  1. Submit a Request
  2. Provide Key Information
    • Name and contact of the school district.
    • Program details (education program/discipline).
    • Anticipated number of placements and timeframe.
  3. Review and Approval
    • The Contracts Office reviews and prepares the agreement.
    • School districts may provide their own MOU draft, which must be reviewed for SUNY compliance.
    • MOUs must be signed by an authorized SUNY signatory and the school district’s designated official.

Important Notes

  • MOUs are typically multi-year agreements and must include clear start and end dates, typically 5 years.
  • Only authorized campus officials may sign MOUs. Faculty cannot execute agreements directly.
  • MOUs differ from Affiliation Agreements (used for clinical/fieldwork) and Internship Agreements (used for paid placements).

Processing Timeline

  • Standard review and execution: 3–6 weeks, depending on district requirements and negotiations.
  • Please begin the process early to avoid delays in student teaching placements.

University Services

  • 405 Maytum Hall State University of New York at Fredonia Fredonia, NY 14063

Contact