The awards were presented at the College of Education Awards Ceremony on May 14 in the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts as part of the annual Student Teacher Recognition Ceremony.
“We love seeing all the great things our graduates go on to do in schools around the country, and we can’t wait to watch the next group take their oath and get started making a real difference for students,” said Associate Dean Jason Clemensen.
The Teachers of Promise Award is a statewide initiative developed by Kansas State Department of Education. Each semester at Pitt State, the award is given to two top graduating seniors who have completed their student teaching assignments and are entering the teaching field.
This year's Teachers of Promise are:
Alexis (Lexi) McGowen, an Elementary Education major from Frontenac. She completed her student teaching at R.V. Haderlein Elementary School in Girard.
Emily Imhof, a Family and Consumer Science major from Pittsburg. She completed her student teaching at Southeast High School in Cherokee.
Raby (BSE ‘22) is in her fourth year of teaching third grade at Central Heights, where administrators say she’s already made a profound difference in and out of the classroom.
Superintendent Nathan Hinrichs called her an inspiring leader and tireless advocate for students. Her innovative teaching methods and ability to connect with students have consistently impacted student outcomes.
She also serves as a coach for the Middle School Track Team and High School Basketball Team, where her guidance and encouragement have helped student-athletes grow in their sports as well as in character and teamwork.
She also serves as sponsor for the elementary school’s Kindness Club, cultivating a culture of empathy, inclusivity, and service, and inspiring students to make meaningful contributions to school and the community.
Parents say she has fostered a sense of belonging for every student and has encouraged them to embrace their unique strengths while also celebrating their peers’ achievements.
Principal Hope Lickteig said each year, Raby reimagines her classroom environment and adapts elements of it to meet the needs of individual students.
“Her commitment to student growth extends beyond the classroom walls, as she maintains and updated classroom webpage to keep parents informed and engaged,” Lickteig said, “and she makes it a point to attend her students’ extracurricular activities, often bringing handmade signs to cheer them on at dance recitals, basketball games, and even summer events. Her support and presence inspire her students and families alike.”
His foundation in the culinary world began as a student in AHS culinary classes. It was strengthened as the chef and owner of 7-ate-5 Mobile Food & Catering.
His coursework in Career and Technical Education at Pitt State, which he will complete in May, solidified his teaching expertise.
“This combination of education and real-world experience allows him to provide students with authentic, industry-aligned instruction,” said Dana Sprinkle, superintendent.
He manages six course preparations that have high levels of engagement and hands-on learning. As sponsor of the school’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America student organization, he has expanded student participation and increased learning opportunities.
He provides guidance to a student-run coffeeshop at AHS.
“Mr. Krenzin works closely with students to operate this enterprise, providing coffee and seasonal drinks to students and staff before school,” said Principal KaCee James. “This program teaches students essential skills in scheduling, menu development, and financial oversight, with proceeds directly supporting FCCLA.”
And, he is active in the community — last year, he led his students in a grant-funded project, “Kids Feeding Kids,” in which they prepared and delivered hundreds of meals to families facing food insecurity.
In addition, the COE honored this year’s COE Outstanding Faculty, an award determined by a panel within the college:
• Tracy Rampy, assistant instructional professor in Teaching and Leadership: Excellence in Teaching Award
• Tristan Ragland, assistant professor in Health, Human Performance, and Recreation: Excellence in Scholarship Award
• Sandra Cobos Cenobio, assistant instructional professor, Psychology and Counseling: Excellence in Service Award