The MAT program affords all concerned parties with an opportunity to be involved in a cooperative and unique way of preparing future teachers. The school district can benefit through greater flexibility in school staffing patterns. The extended period of field experience allows the district to more adequately evaluate the MAT candidate's performance. The cooperating teacher can more adequately develop long-range plans and modes for the entire year so as to optimize learning experiences for his/her children. The MAT candidate benefits from an extended period of both classroom experience and continuous guidance. In addition, the MAT candidate becomes integrated into the school community and contributes to a full range of professional activities.