Ellie Schueler, a senior majoring in English for Secondary Teachers, has won the Excellence in English/Language Arts Instruction award. The award is offered through WKU’s CEPT course, in which Schueler completed clinical teaching at Drakes Creek Middle School in Bowling Green. EST Teachers enrolled in the CEPT course learn and implement a variety of research-based instructional strategies, assessment methodologies, and content literacy skills to prepare them to be effective English Language Arts.

A Bowling Green native, Schueler’s love for teaching began as a childhood hobby, and evolved into a desire to teach professionally when she was in high school.

“What sparked my love for teaching was the teachers in my life, who I really loved,” Schueler said. “I wanted to model my classroom management after them.”

Schueler then decided to pursue a career in education at WKU, where both the lectures she attends and the lessons she teaches are shaping her into a positive and impactful teacher.

“The biggest thing I've learned is how important it is as a teacher to build relationships with students,” Schueler said. “You're there for the kids. You care about them beyond just what they're learning and their grades.”

Schueler cites Dr. Elizabeth Winkler, Dr. Ted Hovet, and Dr. Angela Jones as some figures in the English department who have had a positive influence on her.

“The whole community structured around the English department is really beneficial,” Schueler said.

Now, Schueler is completing clinical teaching at Bowling Green High School and working towards graduating this fall.

“If you feel called to write, or if you just really love English in general, you should pursue an English major,” Schueler said. “I've definitely loved my experience here, and it has definitely helped prepare me to be a good teacher.”