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K-State Today

January 13, 2015

Elite group of future educators heading to Kansas classrooms

Submitted by Patrice Scott

When The Pride of Wildcat Land, the Kansas State University Marching Band, was presented with the coveted Sudler Trophy last month, one dean realized this also was great news for Kansas classrooms.

Debbie Mercer, dean of the College of Education, congratulates the band and its leadership upon earning this prestigious award, noting 25 percent of The Pride's 400 members are majoring in education. Since 88 percent of the college's graduates remain in the state, this is good news for Kansas.

"To become the best in the nation at any endeavor is the direct result of vision, hard work, passion and innovation — the precise skills successful teachers employ," Mercer said. "I am so happy the band is being recognized, and I am equally excited for all the students these future teachers will influence."

Mercer added that while many band students will be teaching instrumental or vocal music, many will bring their musical talents to classrooms, exemplifying their strengths in teaching to multiple learning styles.