Extension Communications
Extension 4-H Youth Building
Ames, Iowa 50011-3630
(515) 294-9915
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Extension Communications |
7/30/04
Contacts:
Kris Phelps, Continuing Education and Communication Services, (515) 294-7329,
kphelps@iastate.edu
Lynette Spicer, Continuing Education and Communication Services, (515) 294-1327,
lspicer@iastate.edu
Muscatine teacher challenges herself by reversing roles
AMES, Iowa - Accustomed to lecturing and giving school assignments for the past 20 years, Karen Nelson decided to change desks two years ago and become a student again. On August 7 she will receive her master's degree and became the first graduate of the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Education Leadership Academy at Iowa State University. She has taught in the family and consumer sciences department at Muscatine High School for the past 13 years.
"Becoming a student again has greatly enhanced my teaching skills as I learned new approaches and techniques that will benefit my students," she said. "I needed a new challenge after teaching for more than 20 years and the FCS Education Leadership Academy fit my lifestyle perfectly."
The academy is a new method of delivery for a long-standing graduate program at Iowa State. The academy is tailored for working educators. Nelson said it was a perfect fit for her because she could enjoy the three weeks of July courses on campus and take online courses during the school year while she continued working. Academy students can work on a master of science, master of education or doctorate while maintaining their professional jobs.
Nelson said the program was appealing because the instructors are nationwide leaders in her profession and the students come from all over the world. She could live in a learning community during the summer sessions, be on the ISU campus and create a network of professionals and peers for encouragement and support.
"Attaining my master's degree through the Family and Consumer Sciences Education Leadership Academy was a great step toward becoming a better teacher and better networked in my profession," she said.
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