SOE Academic Newsletter Fall 2022

DEANS

The School of Education (SOE) is proud to continue Training Champions for Christ. Our graduates serve in schools all over the world as teachers, specialists, administrators, and professors, and their unified desire to shine the light of Christ in the field is consistently evident. We celebrate with our alumni when recognition is given for their work in the field, and we pray continued blessings over their service to the discipline of education.

In March 2022, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) conducted their site visit to complete the final step in SOE’s accreditation process. This visit takes place every seven years, and we are so thankful to have had the opportunity to highlight our exceptional programs, services, faculty and staff members, current candidates, and alumni. Numerous stakeholders contributed to our success in preparing for and participating in the visit, and we praise God for His provision of joy and strength through every step of the process.

SOE continually seeks to identify and develop unique programs to serve the needs of Christian educators around the globe. As we look forward to the upcoming academic year, our prayer is that God will continue to utilize SOE students, faculty, and staff to be blessings to others both within the field of education and in the world around them.

DR. DEANNA KEITH Interim Dean

DR. LAURIE RICE Interim Online Dean

Student and Alumni Achievements

Eleanor Roosevelt

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

JOSEPH ANGUIANO

Joseph Anguiano is one of the bright and creative young professionals currently in Budapest, Hungary, with the honor of receiving a Fulbright Grant. Originally from Denver, Colorado, Joseph is a 2021 graduate of Liberty University with a Master’s in Secondary Education. He is currently teaching courses at Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest and working as an academic advisor at the Education USA advising center.

Degree Description

Jazmyne Griffith Current Student B.S. Liberty University student Jazmyne Griffith has been named a Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar and awarded a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of her inspiring leadership, personal narrative, and academic achievement.

The Nancy Larson Foundation proudly supports students across the country majoring in elementary education by awarding scholarships to deserving students each year. Griffith is one of five recipients selected from the many applications received by the Foundation.

Location

Lynchburg, Va.

Amanda Works Current Student (anticipated graduation

B.Ed.

Second place in research week for her oral presentation, Culturally Diverse Literature and Social Inclusion in Elementary Classrooms.

Lynchburg, Va.

School of Education 50th Anniversary Celebrations!

DR. HARVEY KLAMM

Liberty University celebrated its 50th anniversary during Homecoming Weekend 2021! In conjunction with the celebration, alumni were invited to participate on Friday afternoon in various colleges’ open houses. The School of Education welcomed alumni to the SOE area in DeMoss Hall as they entered through a festive balloon arch. All in attendance enjoyed refreshments as they reminisced with current and previous SOE faculty and staff and SOE leaders.

As part of the celebration, the School of Education dean, faculty, and staff took the time to record and capture their favorite memories and reflections from that year and put them into a time capsule to be opened 25 years in the future by SOE stakeholders at the university’s 75th celebration in 2046. The collaborative effort was led by members of the Professional Association of Christian Educators Club and faculty sponsors, Dr. Harvey Klamm and Dr. Michele Worley.

The capsule contains artifacts that represent both the past 50 years for the university and the 50th anniversary celebration. Within the box are:

• all of the copies of the Liberty Champion Newspaper printed during the year providing campus, regional, state, national, and international news

• a copy of the university’s published book featuring a summary of the university’s development from vision to reality

• a copy of the Liberty Journal

• letters from current faculty and staff to the faculty and staff in 2046

• an external hard drive with recorded videos of School of Education celebrations throughout year

• an unused Liberty University COVID-19 mask

• a copy of this year’s graduation program

• numerous other items

The time capsule, instead of being buried on campus, will be stored in the Carwile Room, a conference room in the School of Education which houses and displays historical items for the School of Education. Our prayer is that those reviewing the contents in 25 years will have a tangible way to reflect on the growth of the university and the School of Education and to assess its continued commitment to Dr. Falwell’s original vision to have a distinctively Christian university whose graduates would be prepared to impact the world for Jesus Christ.

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: DR. KAREN L. PARKER DR. MICHELLE GOODWIN, ED.D.

The School of Education would like to honor Dr. Karen L. Parker, Dean Emeritus, who retired from her service at Liberty University on June 30, 2022. Dr. Parker served for over 35 years in the School of Education.

Dr. Parker earned an Ed.D. in Reading and Varying Exceptionalities at the University of Miami, an M.S. in Reading at Florida International University, and a B.A. in Music at Tennessee Temple University. She is licensed as a reading specialist, special educator, and school psychologist. Dr. Parker ministered as a teacher and administrator in K-12 Christian schools for 16 years and then accepted a faculty position at Liberty University in 1986. She served ten years at Liberty as the Teacher Education Department Chair before her appointment as Dean of the School of Education in 1999.

While dean, the School of Education’s candidate enrollment grew from hundreds to thousands, and through her visionary leadership and expertise of the accreditation process, the School of Education obtained national accreditation through NCATE — the gold standard of accreditation for teacher education — for the first time in school history. The School of

Education proudly continues its nationally accredited status to this day through CAEP and ACSI from the incredible legacy she has provided.

Dr. Parker has faithfully committed to the School of Education’s mission to prepare competent professionals with a biblical worldview, and the School of Education has created an award in her honor: the Dr. Karen L. Parker Future Educator Excellence Award. This award is given annually at Commencement to one graduate from an initial-licensure program, and the recipient is chosen for his or her academic excellence, Christian testimony, exemplary leadership and work ethic, organizational and instructional skills, and outstanding service to the Teacher Education Department.

The School of Education celebrated Dr. Parker’s retirement with a luncheon on May 12, 2022, themed “Retiring on a Happy Note” to highlight her many accomplishments. At the event, Dr. Parker was awarded the ACSI Career Service Award in recognition of 52 years of faithful service in Christian education.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT Q & A

FEATURING JAZMYNE GRIFFITH, B.S. ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO APPLY FOR THE NANCY LARSON FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP?

I had been applying to scholarships for nearly a year before I was awarded the Nancy Larson Foundation Scholarship. My motivation stemmed from a desire to graduate from college debt free.

WHAT PERSONAL EXPERIENCES HAVE INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A TEACHER?

My mom and my kindergarten teacher have inspired me to become a teacher. I watched their faithfulness, dedication, and love for their students. They made everyone feel special by taking an interest in their lives. I wanted to have the same passion and love for teaching that they exemplified. Since kindergarten, if you asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I invariably responded with ‘mommy-teacher.’ I really appreciate the personalized education that I got because I was homeschooled for part of my education. That also inspired me with my own students.

WHAT PERSONAL TRAITS DO YOU POSSESS THAT WILL HELP YOU IN YOUR TEACHING CAREER?

As a teacher, I possess the traits of patience and passion that are necessary to effectively communicate with students. If I am excited about the lesson, my students will be excited as well. Patience is necessary when students just don’t get the material and you have explained it every way you can. Frustration and anger are likely to happen at that point. I am also empathetic and understanding. Each of my students has their own personal life. Sometimes, life just gets in the way of submitting assignments on time. I work with the students and parents to give them enough time to finish their work while still completing the course on time. Sometimes, I extend the deadline for students — especially the ones who work hard to complete their assignments on time. Finally, diligence is an important trait that I possess. The art of teaching is always changing. New ways of doing something old are constantly being discovered. Continuing to stay up to date with practices will help me provide my students with the best education. By implementing these traits, I can treat each student uniquely just like my kindergarten teacher did for me.

HOW DOES YOUR TRAINING AT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY PREPARE YOU IN BECOMING AN ELEMENTARY TEACHER?

My training at Liberty University has given me a greater understanding about teaching well. The greatest takeaways are differentiated instruction and small groups in the classroom. Having a strong biblical worldview is key to being a strong Christian teacher. I am also thankful for the practicum placement which helps give practical application of the material as well as a potential job opportunity.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE AND WHAT WILL YOU TAKE WITH YOU FROM THIS SCHOLARSHIP?

I am currently on summer break, but I look forward to starting my final semester next month as well as graduating in December! I pray that my practicum placement will lead to a potential job opportunity next year. From this scholarship, I have learned diligence in applying for scholarships even when there are no results. In addition, I have learned to trust God in everything that I do.

School of Education Programs/Endorsements Highlights

The School of Education is excited to share that we now have several new state licensure programs available. Below are the new programs within the School of Education from Fall 2021 to Fall 2022:

• Bachelor of Education in Engineering Education 6-12 (B.Ed.) (licensure)

• Master of Education in Higher Education (M.Ed.) – Student Affairs (non-licensure)

• Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education (M.A.T.) – Adapted Curriculum & Early Childhood Special Education with CTE-Transition & Special Needs (add-on endorsement) (licensure)

• Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education (M.A.T.) – Early Childhood Special Education & General Curriculum (licensure)

• Master of Arts in Teaching in Special Education (M.A.T.) – General Curriculum & Adapted Curriculum with CTE-Transition & Special Needs (add-on endorsement) (licensure)

• Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education Curriculum and Education Specialist in School Curriculum & Instructional Planning (M.A.T. to Ed.S.) (licensure)

• Master of Arts in Teaching in Middle Education Curriculum and Education Specialist in School Curriculum & Instructional Planning (M.A.T. to Ed.S.) (licensure)

• Master of Arts in Teaching in Secondary Education Curriculum and Education Specialist in School Curriculum & Instructional Planning (M.A.T. to Ed.S.) (licensure)

• Master of Education in Special & Gifted Education (M.Ed.) – Twice Exceptionalities: With Transition & Special Needs, Gifted Education, & Special Education General Curriculum (add-on endorsement) (licensure)

• Education Specialist in Curriculum & Instruction (Ed.S.) – Educational Psychology (non-licensure)

• Education Specialist in Curriculum & Instruction (Ed.S.) – Online Teaching & Learning (non-licensure)

• Education Specialist in Higher Education Administration (Ed.S.) – Student Affairs (non-licensure)

• Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction (Ed.D.) – Educational Psychology (non-licensure)

• Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction (Ed.D.) – Online Teaching & Learning (non-licensure)

• Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration (Ed.D.) – Student Affairs (non-licensure)

• Doctor of Philosophy in Higher Education Administration (Ph.D.) – Student Affairs (non-licensure)

Student Clubs Highlights

AUTISM SPEAKS

Autism Speaks University (ASU) exists to bring community and advocacy to campus through social events, advocacy seminars, and other fun activities on and off campus. ASU connects students who are on the spectrum with other students on campus, providing opportunities for fellowship, student leadership, and self-advocacy through monthly meetings and shared activities. Follow them on Facebook at ASU of Liberty University or Instagram

KAPPA DELTA PI

The Pi Sigma Chapter of Kappa Delta Pi (KDP) International Honor Society in Education seeks to unify and promote the field of education by providing networking and professional development resources to education students who are beginning their careers. For the first time in Liberty University’s history, during the 2021-22 academic year, the School of Education’s Pi Sigma chapter was awarded the Florence B. Stratemeyer Award for Chapter Excellence — the highest award presented by Kappa Delta Pi. The Liberty University chapter also brought home six additional awards, making it the second consecutive year it has won seven awards!

URBAN EDUCATION CLUB

As we begin our seventh year in the School of Education, the Urban Education Club continues our mission to prepare teacher candidates for the realities and challenges associated with teaching and supporting students in low-income, urban communities. We partner with Lynchburg City Schools to provide club members with opportunities to develop mentor/ mentee relationships with veteran urban educators. We hear presentations from experts in the field of urban education and individuals who work to support the downtown Lynchburg community. This semester, we will focus on issues outside of the classroom that impact students’ academic performance, such as trauma and homelessness. The Urban Education Club provides valuable insight and information for students who feel called to teach in cities and those who are still trying to decide where God is calling them. Every student deserves grace and customized support. Come join us to find out how we can make school a positive and meaningful experience for all children.

PACE CLUB ( Professional Association of Christian Educators)

As a part of the Association of Christian Schools International, student members of PACE work to develop an awareness of and support for God’s global work in K-12 Christian schools. PACE serves as an organization for future educators to grow spiritually and professionally as they collaborate with future and current educators, integrating a passion for teaching with a passion for Christ.

AWARD

DR. KAREN L. PARKER FUTURE EDUCATOR EXCELLENCE AWARD

Our most prestigious honor in the Department of Teacher Education is the Dr. Karen L. Parker Future Educator Excellence Award. This award is established in honor of Dr. Karen L. Parker, Dean Emeritus, who served for over 30 years in the School of Education in various roles, including faculty member, Chair of the Teacher Education Department, Dean, and Coordinator of Accreditation. The recipient is chosen for his or her academic excellence, Christian testimony, exemplary leadership and work ethic, organizational and instructional skills, and outstanding service to the Teacher Education Department.

For the 2021/22 academic year, Hallie Chewning was chosen for this award. Hallie graduated in May of 2022 with a B.Ed. in Elementary Education. Hallie served as president of the Pi Sigma chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, an International Honors Society in Education. Under Hallie’s leadership, the Pi Sigma chapter achieved the highest accolade – The Dr. Florence B. Stratemeyer Award for Chapter Excellence! This fall, she will be teaching 5th grade reading and social studies at Burlington Elementary School in Roanoke County, Va., and she is excited to take the skills she acquired at Liberty and put them into practice in the classroom.

Teacher Education Award

The School of Education faculty chose the recipients of the Teacher Education Award on the basis of academic excellence, service to the Teacher Education Department, Christian testimony, and outstanding performance in student teaching. The winners are listed below:

• The Elementary Teacher Education Award — Breea Amundson and Tamira Weaver

• The Secondary Teacher Education Award — Zachary Kauffman

• The Special Education Teacher Award — Anna Alden and Katherine Eto

Delta Kappa Gamma

The 2022 Delta Kappa Gamma Society/Virginia Scholars Award went to Hallie Chewning at the May School of Education Commencement ceremonies.

CHALKBOARD-USER

School of Education Leadership

DEANNA KEITH, B.A., M.Ed., Ed.S., Ed.D., Interim Dean LAURIE RICE, B.S., M.Ed., Ed.S., Ed.D., Interim Online Dean

MICHELLE GOODWIN, B.S., M.Ed., Ed.D., Associate Dean of Licensure and Residential Programs

School of Education Faculty

ESTHER ALCINDOR, B.S., M.Ed., M.S., Ph.D., Chair of Early and Elementary and Middle Education Programs, Associate Professor

SANDRA BATTIGE, B.M.E., M.Ed., Ph.D., Chair of Special Education Programs, Associate Professor

PAM GRIFFIN, B.A. M.Ed. Ph.D., Chair of Secondary Education and Assistant Professor

CAROL CANADY, BS, M.Ed., Ph.D., Assistant Professor

RUSSELL CLAXTON, B.S., M.Ed., Ed.S., Ed.D., Online Chair, Professor MEGAN CORDES, B.S., M.Ed., Ed.D., Online Chair, Associate Professor

NANCY DEJARNETTE, B.S., M.S., Ed.S., Ed.D., Director of Accreditation and Assessment

LISA FOSTER, B.A., M.Ed., Ph.D., Professor MONICA HUBAND, B.A., M.A.T., Ed.D., Online Chair, Associate Professor

MELANIE HUDSON, B.A., M.Ed., Ph.D., Online Chair, Assistant Professor

HARVEY KLAMM, B.A., M.Ed., Ed.D, Associate Professor

KURT MICHAEL, B.S., M.A., Ph.D., Professor

SAMUEL SMITH, B.A., M.Ed., Ed.D., Professor

MARIA SPAULDING, B.S., M.Ed., Ph.D., Assistant Professor

JAMES SWEZEY, B.A., M.Ed., Ed.D., Professor SCOTT WATSON, B.S., M.A., Ph.D., Professor

MICHELE WORLEY, B.A., M.Ed., Ed.D., Assistant Professor