SU's Seidel School Earns Honor for PDS Program

SALISBURY, MD---Salisbury University’s coordination with local public schools, in particular those in Wicomico County, has been a benefit for students within the Samuel W. and Marilyn C. Seidel School of Education as they prepare for their careers as educators.

The Professional Development School (PDS) partnership with Wicomico County Public Schools has been recognized by the National Association for Professional Development Schools (NAPDS) as an Exemplary PDS Achievement Award recipient.

SU is one of just four institutions recognized with the honor this year, along with Bowie State University, California Lutheran University and the University of North Carolina Charlotte.

“Our relationship with Wicomico County, and other local school systems on the Eastern Shore, is one of the greatest benefits to our education students and their future careers as teachers,” said Dr. Laurie Henry, dean of the Seidel School. “To be recognized by the NAPDS is great confirmation that our shared commitment to excellence in teacher preparation is second to none.”

Since the PDS program began in 2009, just 28 programs have been recognized for their work. This is SU’s fourth time receiving the accolade – second most of any institution. This year’s winners will be recognized and have an opportunity to present about their program during the NAPDS virtual conference in March. 

Salisbury’s PDS program provides a learning community to improve practice and enhance student achievement in Pre-K-12 public schools. The PDS provides professional development for classroom teachers and Salisbury University faculty. The Seidel School partners with seven counties to provide preparation for prospective teachers enrolled in early childhood, elementary, secondary and P-12 programs in physical education, music, ESOL and TESOL at Salisbury University.

NAPDS is the pre-eminent national organization supporting the critical linkage between higher education and public schools in the clinical preparation of teachers. The association seeks to advance the education profession by sustaining PDS partnerships as learning communities in support of improved student learning, teacher preparation, reciprocal professional development, and shared inquiry.

For more information about SU’s PDS program call 410-677-5042.