The purpose of  the Pekin Professional Development School is to create an exemplary learning environment that embraces innovation and the integration of best practices for children, interns, and faculties in a technologically oriented society.

       The Pekin Professional Development School is a partnership between Illinois State University and Pekin School District 108. Teacher candidates are given the opportunity during their senior year to participate in a year long internship program. During this year, student teachers are completely immersed in the school district.

Phase I

• Orientation to the beginning of year classroom activities
• Begin methods course work
• Experience a K-3, 4-6, or 7-8 classroom

My Phase I experience was in Mrs. Ronna's third grade at L.E. Starke Elementary.  I had the opportunity to take part in all the back-to-school activities and meet the children that I would be teaching in the Spring.

Phase II

• Place in new grade level
• Continue methods instruction
• Experience a middle school setting
• Observe specialists in a variety of areas

My Phase II experience was at Washington Intermediate School in Mrs. Decker's sixth grade classroom.  I enjoyed the challenges of working with the older students so much that I decided to do a dual placement in my Spring student teaching.  

Phase III & IV

• Begin in-depth student teaching
• Produce a quality professional portfolio
• Prepare for job fair, job searches, and interviews

My dual placement began back in third grade and ended in sixth.  Throughout this time I created and taught standards based lessons, engaged students in real world hands-on activities, and collaborated with colleagues and administrators.  I learned valuable teaching strategies and best practices from my mentors.  My most important lessons came from the students themselves.  I learned that listening can be as important as speaking, each child is unique and special in his or her own way, and everyone deserves the chance for the best possible education.

The Professional Development School has been an integral part of preparing me for what lies ahead.  I am confident that this program combined with my life experiences will enable me to become a successful educator as I begin this new chapter in my life.  I will continue to grow personally and professionally to become the best teacher I can be.