The Pekin Professional Development School (PDS) model is a university-public school partnership that combines teacher education and school reform to improve student learning. Pekin 108's partnership focuses on problem-based learning, technology-rich learning environments, and collaborative instructional strategies.

The Pekin PDS Program gave me experience in both a sixth grade and a kindergarten classroom, so I have gained an understanding of how to meet the emotional and educational needs of children at both ends of the spectrum. I thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent at both grade levels, which has made me realize that I have a passion for teaching children, not teaching curriculum.

Benefits of the PDS

• Comprehensive year long internship
• Total immersion in school culture
• Opportunities for practice, reflection, and collegiality
• Linkage between course content and teaching practice
• Promotion of best practices
• Quality Mentor-Intern team
• Involvement in school-community relationships