Mississippi Professional Educators Honored Belhaven University Student

May 31, 2022 (Jackson, Miss.) - Mary Koering, an education major at Belhaven University, is the recipient of a 2022 Linda Anglin Teacher Preparation Scholarship from the Mississippi Professional Educators (MPE).

Dr. David Hand, Dean of the School of Education, said, “Mary is a natural teacher. She has the innate ability to assess the needs of the learners in her classroom and adjust her teaching accordingly. She understands the importance of keeping her students engaged in the learning process.”

In addition to the $500 scholarship, Mary also received a complimentary membership to MPE for her first year of teaching. Koering is a resident of Pearl, Mississippi and works in an aftercare program engaging young children in play, instruction, and early learning activities.

“Mary is an excellent educator and a role model of professional conduct and a teacher with a servant leader's heart,” said Director of Clinical Educator Interns Dr. Lydia McCardle.

Koering observed, “I teach because I have a passion for reaching out to students and empowering them with the knowledge and love for learning. Because I have always loved reading and discovering new things, I want to encourage that natural curiosity in others. I truly believe that a solid education and a welcoming classroom environment are the greatest gifts I could give to students facing challenges at home and in life.”

Founded in 1979, the Mississippi Professional Educators is Mississippi's largest and premier organization for professional educators, serving approximately 13,000 teachers, administrators, and support personnel. MPE serves members in pre-K through graduate education in both public and private institutions with the purpose of promoting better education for the children of Mississippi.