Katie Buhler Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar
Manhattan, KS (January 30, 2019) – Kansas State University student Katie Buhler has been named a Nancy Larson Foundation Scholar and awarded a $1000 scholarship in recognition of her inspiring personal narrative, academic achievement, and awareness of students’ diverse needs in a global society.
The Nancy Larson Foundation proudly supports students across the country majoring in elementary education by awarding scholarships to deserving students each year. Buhler is one of ten recipients selected from the many applications received by the Foundation.
Katie explained what inspires her to be a teacher. “Students in a diverse and changing world need the mentorship of passionate and committed educators who are engaged and aware of students’ needs. Teachers must be prepared to provide every student in their classrooms a welcoming space where they are supported and challenged to develop a passion for learning. I look forward to establishing a space which promotes freedom, collaboration, and innovation while it also instills respect among peers and colleagues.”
Nancy Larson remarked, “The selection committee and I applaud Katie for her outlook on education. She said that teaching requires constant learning, reflection, and adaptation based on students’ daily needs. This calls for resilience when faced with challenges without clear solutions. Katie exhibits the dynamic personality that makes a great teacher.”
Juniors, seniors, and graduate students who have declared an elementary education major are invited to submit a personal narrative about why they want to teach, what personal experiences they have had that inspired them to teach, and what will make them excellent teachers. Applicants are also asked to include community service activities and experiences they have had working with children.
Larson, a former teacher and curriculum director, has dedicated her life to advancing elementary education. Nancy Larson Science K–5 programs were developed because teachers needed a classroom-tested science program that would prepare children for upper-level science classes and careers in science. The program was written to provide in-depth science content in an easy-to-teach format.