Penn Fellows
LCDS is proud to announce our partnership with the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education (Penn GSE) as a member of the Independent School Teaching Residency (ISTR) program.
By joining a consortium of the nation’s leading independent schools, we are reinforcing our commitment to pedagogical excellence and the development of the next generation of exceptional educators.
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"Launching the Penn Fellows program at Lancaster Country Day School represents a bold commitment to the future of teaching and learning. By joining this consortium, we are actively helping to shape the next generation of great teachers." —Emilie D. Kosoff, Head of School
Meet Our Inaugural Penn Fellows
2026-2028
The ISTR program is built on the philosophy that the best teachers are lifelong learners. Our Fellows do more than just teach; they will also engage in deep inquiry projects and professional portfolios that bring the latest educational research directly to our students.
This partnership ensures that LCDS remains at the forefront of modern education, providing our students with the energy of Ivy League residents and the wisdom of seasoned mentors.
Whitney Finney '20
Math Fellow
Dickinson College, B.S.
Alex Kaye
Science Fellow
Vassar College, B.A., Graduate Fellowship in Education & New York State Teaching Certificate
University of Toronto, OISE Certificate in International Education for IB
What is the Penn Fellows Program?
The Penn Fellows program is an innovative, two-year residency that bridges the gap between Ivy League theory and classroom practice. While completing a Master of Science in Education (M.S.Ed.) through the University of Pennsylvania, Fellows serve as full-time residents at LCDS, immersing themselves in our community and our culture of academic excellence.
Key Components of the Residency:
- Hands-on Teaching: Fellows lead classrooms at LCDS under the guidance of veteran faculty mentors.
- Ivy League Curriculum: A rigorous 10-course workload through Penn GSE, including summer sessions in Philadelphia.
- Collaborative Learning: Fellows participate in rotating weekend residencies at other prestigious consortium schools to broaden their perspective on independent education.
- Mentorship & Coaching: Intensive, one-on-one instructional coaching ensures our Fellows grow into confident, effective leaders.
