25 years later, a local school administrator reflects on MSU-WP program that helped her

Twenty-five years ago, Missouri State University began offering the Teacher Education Completion Program at Missouri State University-West Plains (MSU-WP), giving area residents who wanted to become elementary teachers a local pathway to achieve their dream. 

A Houston School District administrator was able to launch her career because of the program.

A quarter century later, that program continues to be one of the largest and most successful programs offered by Missouri State University (MSU) Outreach at the West Plains campus. 

“In the past 25 years, we have had over 700 graduates successfully complete the Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (BSEd) degree and more than 100 additional students with an existing bachelor’s degree obtained teacher certification after completing courses required by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE),” said Deanna Smith, regional outreach administrator for MSU Outreach. 

GRADUATE REFLECTS ON LESSONS LEARNED 

Those who have completed the program say they were well prepared not only to enter the classroom but also to thrive in their chosen profession. 

“As a proud member of the first graduating class of the Missouri State University Teacher Education Completion Program on the West Plains campus in 2001, I can confidently say that my time in this program laid a strong foundation for my entire career in education,” said Amanda Munson, Houston High School principal. “Reflecting on my journey over the past 24 years, I realize how instrumental the program has been in shaping my teaching philosophy and professional growth. 

“From the very beginning, the curriculum was designed to equip and prepare us for the classroom setting,” she continued. “The hands-on experiences I gained through practical placements were invaluable.” 

The Dora High School graduate returned to her alma mater to begin her career as a kindergarten teacher and later completed training to obtain her school counseling certification through MSU Outreach at MSU-WP. She worked as a counselor at Dora and Willow Springs before becoming an administrator in the Houston School District. 

“Now, as I am in my seventh year as a school administrator, I continue to rely on the leadership and problem-solving skills I acquired during my time at MSU-WP. The program taught me the importance of collaboration and fostering a positive school culture – values that I strive to implement in my current role.”