What is the PDS program?

The PDS program offers senior teacher education students majoring in early childhood, elementary, middle level, and secondary education at Illinois State University a yearlong experience in a public school as an intern that replaces the traditional 16-week student teaching semester. Through collaborative partnerships between Illinois State teacher education programs and a number of schools or school districts throughout Illinois, the goal of the program is to provide professional growth of all participants through the simultaneous improvement of both schools and teacher education.

During the first semester of my program I will become acquainted with the school and teaching staff. I will also co-teach with Mrs. Nicoson, and create my own lessons that have been directed from the methods classes in which I am enrolled in through Illinois State University.

During second semester of the program I will assume responsibility for planning and instruction as a student teacher.