UPCOMING EVENTS
FCCLA is teaching a cookie decorating class at the Calloway County Extension office to raise money for programs and travel.
The class will take place on Tuesday, February 24th from 5:30-7:30.
Join us for College Coffee on Thursday, March 5, from 9–10 a.m. in the Multipurpose Room. Enjoy coffee and Panera pastries, courtesy of the Dean’s Office.
We hope to see you there for a warm cup and good conversation!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
If you have students that will be graduating in Spring 2027 and will be during their student teaching that semester, they might be interested in PDS - Professional Development School.
It gives them the opportunity to do their big practicum and student teaching in the same school with the same teachers and same students.
Contact Debbie Bushart at dbushart@murraystate.edu for more information.
CLASSROOM UPDATES
Our EDU 380 classes received training in RtI/MTSS strategies on Wednesday, 2/11, led by Tammy Jones from Mayfield Elementary and Lindsey Crane from Murray Middle School.
These reading specialists were highly informative and engaging, offering meaningful, real-world examples of how the three tiers of RtI/MTSS look in everyday classroom practice and how teachers intentionally differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all learners.
PROGRAM UPDATES
February 9–12 marked FCCLA Week, celebrated as part of the annual Career and Technical Education Month.
On Thursday, Bree Riley and Savannah Kehn, both Family and Consumer Sciences majors at Murray State University, were invited to return to their alma mater, Graves County High School. They shared their experiences as FCS students at Murray State University, discussed their postsecondary coursework, and highlighted opportunities available through the newly affiliated Level 4 FCCLA chapter.
Their presentation provided high school students valuable insight into FCS pathways, leadership development, and the transition from secondary to postsecondary education.
A comprehensive mock interview session was organized for the EDU 485/Professional Perspectives for Teaching designed to provide candidates with an authentic interview experience. This initiative aimed to equip candidates with the tools needed to successfully navigate typical interview questions and scenarios that they are likely to encounter in their future careers as educators.
Throughout this important process, participants refine their communication skills, clearly articulate their personal strengths and teaching philosophies, and develop confidence in addressing a range of interview questions and scenarios.
The mock interviews featured a distinguished panel of interviewers, including Shelley Stubblefield, the Principal of Murray Middle School; Donna Wear, a former Principal; Stephanie Sullivan, the Chair of the department; Bob Horne, the former Principal of Murray Middle School; and Jay Simmons, the former Superintendent of Carlisle County School District.
The interviewers’ insightful and challenging inquiries, coupled with their constructive feedback and supportive remarks, significantly enriched the experience, transforming it into an invaluable learning opportunity for the candidates.
The faculty expressed their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Parr for her exemplary support and meticulous organizational efforts in coordinating the recent mock interview. Furthermore, Dr. Parr’s continuous guidance has been invaluable in assisting faculty members in aligning their course content with the established criteria for core classes, ensuring a high standard of academic excellence within the program.
The faculty members conveyed their profound appreciation to Dr. Abbigail Morris for her exceptional guidance and unwavering support throughout the curriculum development process. Her expertise and dedication were instrumental in ensuring that the curriculum met the rigorous standards required for accreditation.
STUDENT ORGANIZATION UPDATES
Best Buddies celebrated Valentine’s Day with an unforgettable party on Friday, February 13!
From fun activities to great memories with friends, it was a day full of smiles and connection. Check out the highlights and all the amazing moments!
We are excited to offer faculty and staff the opportunity to update their professional headshots! Whether you need a new photo for your university profile, website, or any other professional purpose, we’ve made it easy for you to schedule a session.
How to Schedule Your Appointment:
Simply use the online appointment calendar to select a time that works best for you! An email follow-up will be sent after an appointment is made.
Using technology like AI or virtual reality in the classroom?
Is your class working on a super cool project?
Schedule a time for me to stop by and grab photos (or video) of your students using technology to enhance their learning.
You can also schedule a time for me to grab photos of group work, class projects, etc.
If you already have photos, feel free to submit them here using the photo folder link!
In an effort to showcase the outstanding work of our College of Education and Human Services faculty, we will be highlighting recent presentations, publications, and other scholarly accomplishments.
Please use the Google form below to submit any recent professional accomplishments. Submissions will be featured on our COEHS bulletin board and shared on our social media platforms to celebrate and promote the impactful work happening across our college.
Thank you for helping us showcase the excellence within COEHS!
PHOTOS OF THE WEEK
Practicum I Celebration
Thursday, February 12
Elementary Education Practicum II students welcomed Practicum I students with a celebration as they prepare to step into their classrooms next week. Each Practicum I student received their name tag
SED310
Thursday, February 12
Future special education teachers explored the importance of food preference assessments—an essential tool for supporting students with disabilities.
Through this hands-on activity, students learned how identifying individual food preferences can reduce mealtime challenges, increase engagement, and promote autonomy.
Experiences like this prepare them to use student-centered strategies that support behavior, skill development, and overall well-being in their future classrooms.
CDI686/440
Monday, February 16
First-year graduate students in CDI 686 recently conducted clinical bedside swallow evaluation simulations with undergraduate students in Megan Smetana’s CDI 440 class. CDI 440 students developed detailed case studies and role-played patients with neurological disorders, allowing graduate clinicians to practice assessment skills in realistic settings.
Evaluations took place in the clinic and across academic spaces and offices, creating an immersive, hands-on clinical learning experience.
CJSW Career Exploration Day
Tuesday, February 17
On Tuesday, February 17, students participated in Career Exploration Day—connecting with regional employers, asking meaningful questions, and learning what their future careers could look like. The experience continued in the VR lab, where Murray State Police guided students through hands-on simulations that brought real-world situations to life.
Spring Semester - 2026
January 12- Spring Term Begins
January 19- Campus Closed
March 4- First Half Semester Ends
March 5- Second Half Semester Begins
March 16-20- Spring Break; University Closed March 18-20
March 25- Racer Day
April 22- Spring Senior Breakfast
May 9- Spring Commencement (in Racer Arena due to CFSB Renovation)
The mission of the College of Education and Human Services is to prepare future leaders, advocates, and practitioners through authentic, engaging, and student-centered academic programs for successful careers that positively impact communities.