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Sara Stearns-McWhorter, Instructor

SOU Faculty

"The master's degree opened up opportunities that were not available to me without it. It validated all the years of work that I poured into the ECE world. It empowered me to become a leader in the field."

Degrees Held:

MEd – Southern Oregon University, 2014

Career Highlights:

Receiving my MEd at age 55.

Which online degree program(s) do you teach?

  • Which classes do you teach online?

    ECE 510: ECE Management, Administration and Leadership

  • What do you want students to take away from your classes?

    I want students to learn practical and relevant information that they can use in their everyday work with children and families. I want my students to feel empowered to become strong advocates for the children and families in their communities.

  • How long have you been teaching online courses?

    Four years.

  • Why did you start teaching?

    I started teaching adults when my time in the "front line" came to an end. I have always loved mentoring and empowering those who work with children and have years of experience that I hope to share with others.

  • What is the value of a master's degree in education?

    The master's degree opened up opportunities that were not available to me without it. It validated all the years of work that I poured into the ECE world. It empowered me to become a leader in the field.

  • What advice would you give to those considering an online MSEd program?

    Hang in there! I had my own doubts when I started the program. I now love the connections that can be made if you work at it—it has opened the world to possibilities.

  • What is the one book you think everyone should read?

    Daring Greatly: How the Courage to be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent and Lead by Brene Brown.

  • Tell us something interesting about yourself that your students might not know.

    I love lizards. I have three bearded dragons and plan to add a chameleon to the menagerie.


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