The Southwestern College education division has recognized Karrie McNutt, Winfield, and Kimberly Whiteside, Andover, as “Teachers of Promise.” Because of this distinction, McNutt and Whiteside are invited to attend the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN) State Education Conference in Topeka Feb. 15 and 16. 

McNutt is the daughter of Steven and Sherri McNutt.  Born and raised in Winfield, McNutt is a graduate of Winfield High School and will be graduating from SC in May with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education.  McNutt is completing her final student teaching semester in Wellington.

Whiteside is a graduate of Andover High School.  She lives in Andover with her husband, Mel, and four children, Brandon, Lauren, Christian, and Graham.

According to Jackie Glasgow, director of student teaching at Southwestern, each semester Kansas colleges and universities with teacher education programs are invited to name two individuals to be recognized as “Teachers of Promise.” 

“In this selection process, the teacher education program faculty of SC typically considers individuals who are presently in their student teaching semester through both the campus and Professional Studies cohorts. With the continued growth of our program, the pool of potential candidates continues to grow, making the final selection challenging,” Glasgow says.

Glasgow continued that in naming “exemplary” candidates, attributes of effective professional educators are considered, similar to those utilized in identifying the Kansas State Teacher of the Year.  Those attributes include demonstrating a strong commitment to the teaching profession; planning and delivering effective lessons which attempt to meet the learning styles and needs of all students; building team relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and parents; and engagement in the greater school community.

“I couldn't be more honored to receive this Teacher of Promise award and to have been chosen by such an amazing education faculty at SC,” McNutt says.  “These mentors have been an inspiration to me and they have shown me what it takes to be an outstanding teacher.  I thank God for their lives and for the opportunity to learn from each and every one.  I am so grateful for their belief in me and I cannot wait to finally enter such a rewarding profession and have my own impact in children’s lives.”

“I am so honored to have been chosen as a Teacher of Promise, and I look forward to fulfilling my dream of teaching,” Whiteside says.  “I am thankful for the amazing teachers and staff at Southwestern who have helped me in my journey. I am very excited to begin this new chapter in my life as an educator.”