PDS School Districts

School districts in the Northern Illinois region have determined that professional development schools are valuable for their students and their teachers. Expansion of the model, which is customized for each district and school, is continuing rapidly.

NIU PDS sites are operating in the six school districts listed at the left.

Key benefits for the school districts partnering with NIU include the following:

• Improve academic student achievement through excellent co-teaching
• Increase opportunities and resources for differentiated instruction, tutoring and instructional supports
• Implement best teaching practices with immediate feedback for all learners
• Increase professional development for all teachers
• Prepare teacher candidates who enter the workforce ready to meet the demands of teaching with experience as professionals
• Collaborate between professionals in the field and at the university level
• Infuse RtI, data-based decision making, and best practices at all levels of teaching and learning
• Create processes that enhance our ability to monitor progress towards district and building goals

One of the most important benefits is the positive effect the PDS has on students.  The PDS model provides the extra help needed to reach their potential, preparing them to contribute to our global society.

PDS Partnership Districts