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Seven ������ý University students completed student teaching during the Spring 2026 semester in Tazewell County Public Schools and Giles County Public Schools.

“This group of student teachers has done an exceptional job during their time at ������ý University and during student teaching this semester,” said Dr. Shellie Brown, Dean for the School of Education and Social Sciences. “They are fully prepared and will be wonderful teachers with a true heart for helping students learn and grow.”

Abigail Boehm of Addison, Illinois graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education K-12. ������ý her time at ������ý University, Abigail said, “The overall experience of Teacher Education through ������ý University helped me to become an effective educator. I met some incredible classmates and professors who helped to guide me to success.” Abigail was a member of the ������ý University women’s volleyball team and was on the Dean’s and President’s lists throughout her time at ������ý University. Abigail will begin teaching at Graham Middle School in the fall.

Savannah Holmes of Culpeper, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education K-12. Savannah was a member of the Missions Club, team captain of the women’s soccer team, a member of the Alpha Chi Honor Society, a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, a resident advisor, and an honors graduate. Savannah stated, “I couldn’t be more thankful for my supervisors and mentor at ������ý who have spent countless hours working with me and praying over me each and every day. You won’t find a family atmosphere like the one here at ������ý. The Education program begins building a strong academic foundation from day one for its students and continues to pour into its graduates once they leave as well.”

Seth Johnson of Rich Creek, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6. During his time at ������ý University, Seth was on the Dean’s and President’s lists for academic achievement. He is a member of the Wolf Creek Ruritan Club. Seth said, “������ý University’s Teacher Education Program didn’t just prepare me to teach, it transformed the way I see myself, my students, and the power of education. I entered as a learner, but I’m leaving as an educator with purpose, confidence, and a heart shaped for service.”

LoriAne Lester of Tazewell, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education K-12. Her spouse is William Lester. LoriAne was a teacher apprentice in the Grow Your Own Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program at Tazewell High School during her time at ������ý University. LoriAne said, “My time in the education program has been rewarding and challenging in all the right ways, helping me grow in confidence, patience, and purpose.” LoriAne will begin teaching at Tazewell High School in the fall.

Alexis McDuffie of Bluff City, Tennessee graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6. Her parents are Carrie McDuffie and Nathan McDuffie. During her time at ������ý University, Alexis was a member of the softball team and Alpha Chi Honors Society. Alexis stated, “������ý University’s Teacher Education Program has been an incredibly meaningful experience. It has helped me grow into a confident leader and educator, while also strengthening my relationship with the Lord.”

Michelle Murphy of ������ý, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6. Her spouse is Craig Murphy. Michelle was a teacher apprentice in the Teacher Apprenticeship Program at Graham Intermediate School during her time in the program. Of her time in the program, Michelle said, “My experience in the Teacher Education Program at ������ý University has been incredibly meaningful and has shaped the teacher I am becoming. Through hands-on classroom experiences, supportive professors, and guidance from mentor teachers, I grew in confidence and came to truly understand the impact a teacher can have on students’ lives. The program not only prepared me with instructional strategies and classroom skills, but it also strengthened my passion for helping students learn, grow, and feel supported in the classroom.”

Christina Taylor of Richlands, Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6. During her time at ������ý University, Christina was on the President’s List and graduated summa cum laude. Christina was a teacher apprentice in the Teacher Apprenticeship Program at Richlands Elementary School during her time in the program. Christina stated, “My experience in the Teacher Education Program has helped me grow not only as a future educator, but also as a person. It gave me the confidence, skills, and real classroom experience I need to be successful in my own classroom.” Christina will begin teaching at Richlands Elementary School in the fall.

To learn more about the education programs offered by ������ý University, both online and on-campus at the graduate and undergraduate levels, visit our School of Education & Social Sciences page.