EMU names five as Teachers of Promise

Five education students from Eastern Mennonite University (EMU) were selected to attend the March 29-30 Teachers of Promise Foundation Institute in Richmond, Virginia. The annual event brings together 100 outstanding pre-service teachers from Virginia for recognition, mentorship and professional development.

EMU’s Teachers of Promise are

• Sarah Beth Ranck, pursuing a degree in math education and secondary education licensure in mathematics, from Lancaster, Pa.;
• Rachel Shenk, a December 2018 elementary education (PreK-6) graduate, from Waynesboro, Va.;
• Mariah King, pursuing special education licensure, K-12 (minoring in psychology), from Harrisonburg, Va.;
• Sarah Kline, majoring in early/primary education (PreK-3), with licensure in early/primary education and special education licensure, K-12, from Grottoes, Va.;
• Andry Stutzman, a December 2018 graduate with licensure in music education, vocal/choral, PreK-12, from Harrisonburg, Va.

The honorees “exemplify strong potential for impacting students in the classroom, high academic standing, commitment to the teaching profession, and embody EMU’s teacher education mission to ‘teach boldly in a changing world through an ethic of care and critical reflection,’” says department chair and professor of education Cathy Smeltzer Erb. “This is a delightful group of honorees. I am confident that these future teachers will positively influence the lives of each student in their classrooms as they create and advocate for just and equitable learning environments.”

Kline said she left the conference “feeling eager, inspired and honored.”

EMU’s education program values experiential learning, offering early practicum experiences that help candidates determine their professional path. Teacher candidates choose from 15 different licensure programs.

The education program is one among five private colleges in Virginia accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.

In 2018, two of EMU’s former Teachers of Promise teaching in Harrisonburg City Schools were recognized by their students for their professional excellence.