2024 Master Teacher Erica Threatt

“One of the most important actions to take as an educator is to build relationships with your students,” she wrote. “Within the first couple of days, it is my responsibility to learn about my students and what makes them who they are.”

Building relationships with her students is center to everything Threatt does in the classroom from project-based learning to individualized learning. This is especially important for students who come from trauma backgrounds.

“I show my students that I care and I am in it for them,” she said. “During independent learning time or personalized learning time, I like to take some time to focus on these students. Once a student feels safe in your classroom or learning environment, they will start trying and be okay with making mistakes.”

Part of creating a place for students to learn and grow is creating safe spaces in the classroom through a calm corner.

“In this space, students can take a time out or a break if needed for three minutes,” she wrote. “During these three minutes they can read a book, draw, use sensory items, close their eyes, or get a drink.”

Many students don’t have the opportunity to engage in the community outside of Liberal, Threatt said. She came up with an innovative way to bring the community to her students through MITEE Monday, Meadowlark Innovative Time Excites Everyone. Originally this time was created to help attendance on Mondays but has grown into something even more special.

“MITEE Monday is a time during the day when students get the choice of an extra class they would like to attend,” she wrote. “We have community members from different businesses, companies and career fields come and interact with our students.”

K-State Research and Extension has come to classrooms to teach students about healthy habits, exercise and agriculture.

“Students get the opportunity to make their snacks, understand their bodies when being active and learn the life cycles of specific animals,” she wrote. “A sewing class was offered where students learned how to wind, thread and make a seam.”

Threatt also serves as an instructional coach, helping other educators be successful.

“As an instructional coach this year, it is also important that I create a positive and supportive learning environment for teachers and staff members,” she wrote. “I want to give support to all teachers, especially new teachers, in a way that makes them feel confident to try new ideas in the classroom.”

Threatt earned two degrees from Emporia State University: a bachelor of science in education in 2013 and a master of science in curriculum and instruction in 2020.

Colleague Molly Colvin wrote that Threatt has a remarkable ability to connect with and support a highly diverse population of students at Meadowlark Elementary School.

“Her inclusive teaching style and nature in general created a classroom environment where every student felt safe, valued, seen, and loved,” Colvin wrote. “The positive impact she had on her students is a testament to her dedication, effectiveness, and the genuine care she invested in each child.”