Jodi Anderson, Master of Arts in Teaching graduate, received two awards from the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) at their recent national convention. As the organization’s newsletter editor, she was lauded for the variety of stories she presented and her coverage of the state affiliate, the Minnesota Council for Teachers of English.

Anderson also received the NCTE Leadership Development Award as an early career teacher who has demonstrated leadership and a willingness to serve the organization. As part of this award, she received a stipend to attend the national convention and will provide a number of services to the organization this year.

A leader in her school, Anderson values participation. “I have made it a priority not to just be a classroom teacher. Involvement is key. I recognized that I could get out there and be supportive. Some teachers believe I have to be a good teacher in my room before I have enough knowledge to be able to offer something. But the young ideas and people keep the organization alive and vital and connected. Early career teachers serve more as mediators or bridges for preservice teachers and retiring teachers. There is fluidity in having experience and knowledge represented in a school.”

An teacher at Fred Moore Middle School Center for the Arts in Anoka, Minn., Anderson enrolled in the Master of Arts in Teaching program because she wanted to be part of a strong community of learners. She liked the convenience and had heard about the high quality of Bethel’s education program.

To learn more about the Master of Arts in Teaching degree, contact the Graduate School Office at 651.635.8000 or 800.255.8706, ext. 8000.