College of Ed strengthens collaborative efforts to support Lowcountry educators

The College of Education at Charleston Southern University continues to strengthen collaboration efforts to improve schools and support educators across the Lowcountry.

Dorchester District Four

The CSU College of Education has signed a memorandum of understanding with Dorchester School District Four for a Master of Education in administration and supervision cohort to begin in summer 2026. In addition, Dr. Jacquelynn Pleis, associate professor of education, will offer Design, Engage, Respond: Building a Classroom that Supports You and Your Students to DD4 educators as a professional development service.

Dr. Julie Fernandez, dean of the College of Education, said, “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to develop strong educational leaders, support classroom teachers, and prepare the next generation of educators. By working collaboratively with DD4, we are creating sustainable pathways that benefit teachers, candidates, and ultimately the students they serve.”

Jeffrey Beckwith, DD4 superintendent, said, “Dorchester School District Four’s partnership with Charleston Southern is a powerful investment in the future of education for our school district and for CSU. By welcoming student teachers into our classrooms, providing professional development for our newest teachers and supporting our educators in earning advanced degrees, we’re building a strong, sustainable pipeline of talent that directly benefits students and schools.”

The Citadel EdS to CSU EdD

Charleston Southern University and The Citadel are collaborating to expand graduate-level opportunities for Lowcountry and state educators. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to serving students, school districts, and communities through strategic alignment rather than program duplication,” said Fernandez. 

Charleston Southern will promote select graduate education offered by The Citadel not currently available at CSU, and The Citadel will promote CSU’s Doctor of Education (EdD) in leadership to create clear, intentional pathways for educators to advance their professional goals at every stage of their careers. 

Fernandez said, “By working alongside The Citadel, we are strengthening access, expanding choice, and responding thoughtfully to regional workforce needs.”

Dr. Len Annetta, dean and Zucker chair of entrepreneurial education leadership at The Citadel’s Zucker Family School of Education, said, “We are excited to form this partnership with Charleston Southern University. By joining forces, our two schools of education will amplify educator preparation, share community-rooted expertise, and create stronger learning pathways—ensuring every student and educator in the Lowcountry thrives.”

Gifted and Talented Endorsement Added

Educators and current CSU undergraduate students will be able to work on their Gifted and Talented Endorsement (six credit hours) beginning in fall 2026. The coursework prepares educators to work with K-12 gifted and talented (advanced) learners by focusing on identification, social-emotional needs, and specialized instruction.

The nondegree, master’s level program endorsement will be offered to current CSU undergraduate students at no additional charge if the student has been accepted into the College of Education, has completed 72 hours or more toward a bachelor’s degree, has a 2.75 GPA or higher, and does not exceed 18 credit hours in a semester.