I have had the amazing opportunity to take part in the Professional Development School through Illinois State University during my senior year.  I chose to participate in the PDS program in Pekin, Illinois and I could not have made a better choice.  Through this program, I was able to spend my entire senior year in the classroom where I was encouraged to apply everything I learned in my education classes. 

During my time in the PDS program, I was able to student teach in a first and a fourth grade classroom.  I had experience creating and implementing my own standards-based lessons while gathering constructive feedback.  This allowed me to reflect upon my teaching and continue to grow professionally.   Some of the many benefits of this year-long program were creating life-long relationships with my mentor teachers and building staff.  Finding out what age group I felt most comfortable with was an added benefit as well.  I also learned how a school year fits together from the beginning to the end which included much more than just the teaching aspect.  If I had completed a traditional student teaching placement, I would not have the additional experiences such as being a part of committees and attending school improvement meetings. 

At the end of the year, I felt confident that I would make a great addition to a new school. I owe my success to this program and I am so grateful that I had this growing opportunity.