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PDS Fellows

PDS Fellows

A PDS fellow is a teacher candidate who takes on an enhanced role within our Professional Development School. Fellows are selected based on their strong commitment to teaching as well as their readiness to serve as student leaders in our PDS. As part of their experience, they participate in leadership training so they are prepared to co-plan and co-facilitate school-based projects. 

The role of the PDS fellow provides teacher candidates with an opportunity to grow as a reflective educator while making meaningful contributions to current teachers, childcare providers and to the overall partnerships with our partners.

The role of a PDS Fellow includes:

  • Represent the collective voice of teacher candidates
  • Attend and actively participate in all PDS Advisory Council meetings
  • Assist college faculty and school/child care center partners to plan and implement PDS activities

There are numerous benefits of being a PDS Fellow which include being mentored by college faculty members to develop leadership and organizational skills and to gain an awareness of ongoing professional development.

Meet Our Current PDS Fellows

We are proud to recognize our teacher candidates who are serving as current PDS fellows. They have gone above and beyond in their preparation by taking on enhanced roles in our PDS partnerships. These teacher candidates have demonstrated a commitment to learning, leadership and collaboration. They play an important role in supporting the success of our PDS. Below is a list of our current PDS fellows who are making a difference with our partnerships:


Add PDS fellows' names, short bios and pictures of each here.


Would you like to be a PDS Fellow?

Are you a teacher candidate who is ready to take your teacher preparation to the next level? As a PDS fellow, you will work closely with college faculty and mentor teachers to contribute meaningfully to collaboratively planning, developing and implementing school-based projects. Additionally, you will have opportunities to strengthen your teaching skills, build professional relationships and become a leader among other teacher candidates.  

To apply to become a PDS fellow, teacher candidates are asked to upload the following materials in the Application area:

  • Letter of interest
  • Resume
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Completed Application

PDS Fellow Application 

The successful applicant:

  • Has completed a minimum of 12 credits at SUNY Cortland. Transfer credit does not count toward eligibility
  • Is in good academic standing with a minimum 2.8 GPA ad no incomplete coursework
  • Portrays a strong dedication to becoming a teacher
  • Will be/is registered in a course with a field experience
  • Is interested in becoming a leader for other teacher candidates
  • Is willing to participate in professional development in the area of leadership
  • Is able to commit at least 3 hours per week to the PDS (40 hours per semester)

PDS Fellows can register in CPV 400: PDS Fellow Internship for 1 credit. Fellows are eligible to return to the position as a PDS Fellow for up to four semesters and potentially earn a total of 4 CPV credits.