MNU’s School of Education welcomed the 2025 Kansas Teacher of the Year team to campus this week, for an inspiring, interactive presentation to 56 teacher education majors. The team provided an engaging workshop revolving around a creative theme inspired by the popular TV show “FRIENDS.”
As the educators gave their advice, each letter of FRIENDS was thoughtfully used to convey key aspects of effective teaching:
- Fun: The team emphasized the importance of making learning enjoyable. A fun classroom atmosphere can captivate students’ attention and foster a love for learning.
- Rapport: Building strong relationships with students is crucial. The KTOY team shared techniques for developing trust and understanding in the classroom, which is foundational for student success.
- Endurance: Teaching comes with challenges. Team member Maegan Stucky demonstrated her innovative approach to building endurance through a classroom rap titled We Got Grit, to help students navigate difficulties with resilience.
- Needed: Addressing the current teacher shortage, MNU alumnus Ryan Mellick highlighted the critical need for new educators. “We need your fresh ideas and enthusiasm. Welcome to the career of teaching,” he encouraged the future teachers. Mellick earned his Master of Education from MNU in 2017.
- Dynamic: The evolving landscape of education requires adaptability. The team advised future teachers to embrace change and bring their dynamic energy to their classrooms.
- Support: Creating a support network is essential for teachers. The KTOY team prompted the attendees to seek resources that support their needs.
Throughout the presentation, the educators involved the students in activities that allowed them to practice these skills in real time, making the session practical and applicable.
Junior elementary education major Kelbi Markham from Lyndon, Kansas, said the presentation was an “amazing opportunity” for students. “I loved hearing ways to build deeper connections with my future students and how to create a larger impact from some of the best,” she remarked.
Senior middle-level math major Tanner Thompson of Spring Hill, Kansas added that the presentation was fun and engaging. “I truly enjoyed listening to veteran teachers discuss how they keep students actively engaged and how they can bring passion to teaching,” he said. “As a future educator, it’s important to listen to those veteran teachers and find my purpose as I go out into the teaching world and make an impact on students and communities.”
The event is just one of the many ways MNU’s School of Education prepares its students for impactful careers in education.
