Three education majors receive state recognition

Wednesday, May 05, 2010

KOKOMO, Ind. – Three education majors at Indiana University Kokomo were named "Outstanding Future Educators" for their commitment to education at a statewide recognition ceremony.

The Indiana Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (IACTE) awarded the following students for their enthusiasm for education and outstanding performance during student teaching: Jonathon Guse, secondary education social studies; Paul Getts, elementary education; and Kelly Soughan, elementary education.

The three were selected out of nearly 50 IU Kokomo student teachers during the 2009-2010 academic year.

Soughan, a mother of three, said the recognition is quite an honor after all the time and effort she placed into being an effective student teacher. She will graduate from IU Kokomo with her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education this month.

"The main thing I took away from my student teaching and college experience is that I do have that passion for teaching," said Soughan, who was a student teacher for a fifth grade class at Adams Elementary School in Sheridan. "I am anxious and excited to get a job and continue that passion. I miss it already."

Guse was a student teacher at Maconaquah Middle School, and Getts taught at Tipton Elementary. Both will graduate this month as well.

Ed Stipp, director of student teaching, said each student teacher is evaluated by their host teacher and a university supervisor. It was recommendations by these individuals that led to Guse, Getts, and Soughan receiving their awards.

Indiana University Kokomo serves a seven county, primary service area in north central Indiana. The campus offers more than 40 academic programs including four graduate degrees.