Seeing Beyond the Horizon
As a child in Zimbabwe, I remember my fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Maringosi, vividly describing the vastness of possibility with a sweep of his arm: “…as far as the eye can see and beyond.” That memory returned as I listened to Kenyan Senator Crystal Asige, who reminded us, “If what you see is all you see, then you don’t see all there is to see.”
At the School of Education, this spirit of looking beyond inspires our work. Highlights from our recent achievements include:
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Collaborative Growth: We’ve strengthened partnerships locally, with districts like Kent and Issaquah, and globally, engaging Jordanian educators to exchange ideas and advance educational practices.
- Expanding Access: Enrollment in our Early Childhood Education program continues to grow, and our new online TESOL certificate is preparing educators for critical instructional needs.
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Empowering Educators: Through an Alternative Routes Block Grant, we’re helping paraeducators like Emily Yang achieve teacher certification while addressing regional shortages in special education and beyond.
Crystal Asige challenged us to reflect on three profound questions:
- Who do you not see?
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What do you not see?
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What about yourself do you not see?
These questions guide us as we equip our students to foster growth in their classrooms, inspiring them to look beyond the visible and recognize their full potential. Rooted in faith, we embrace this mission, remembering Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s masterpiece, created anew in Christ Jesus to do the good things He planned for us long ago.”
Celebrating Our Community
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Alumni Success: From new roles like Dr. Liz Ebersol’s position at The Bush School to innovative leadership by Dr. Karen Hickenbottom in Everett, our graduates continue to shine.
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Faculty Achievements: Dr. Grace Blum’s editorship of WAESOL Educator and Dr. David Wicks’ global impact in AI education are among many highlights.
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Grants and Partnerships: A $12,500 grant supports paraeducators like Emily Yang, bridging the path to teaching certification.
Looking Ahead
From exploring hidden histories to advancing AI in education, our events and collaborations reflect a commitment to innovation and global engagement. We remain inspired by the collective achievements of our students, alumni, and faculty.
Stay connected and share your stories for our next On Point edition. Together, let’s continue to see beyond the horizon and transform the future of education.
Support our mission here.
Blessings,
Nyaradzo Mvududu
Dean, School of Education