Name: Meredith (Reed) Knapp
Graduation Year(s): 2001
Major(s): Bachelor of Music Performance, Flute
Current Position/Job Title: K-5 Elementary Music Teacher
City and State: Emporia, KS
Tell us about your career and what you do now.
I have been teaching elementary general music in Emporia Public Schools for 20 years. For 16 years, I have also been teaching 4th and 5th grade beginning orchestra. Additionally, I had the opportunity to teach Elementary Music Methods as an adjunct professor at Emporia State University for three years. I also enjoy working with preservice music teachers from Emporia State University during their student teaching.
Tell us one achievement or accomplishment that stands out in your career!
This year I was awarded the Outstanding Music Teacher–Elementary for the North Central District of the Kansas Music Educators Association. To be considered for the award, teachers must be nominated. I found out I was nominated by several of my colleagues but also by a family that had two students in the elementary school I teach at. Being nominated by colleagues is wonderful, but learning I was nominated by students and their families was incredibly moving. I knew I was truly making a difference in students’ lives.
What is your favorite memory from Evangel?
I loved touring with the Concert Orchestra. I got to see many states in the U.S., but the best tour was Europe in 1999. We visited 13 different countries and saw so many landmarks I had only read about before. Those times of travel allowed me to build relationships with my fellow students that are still strong today.
How did Evangel help you identify/develop your calling?
Through my classes and experiences at Evangel, I developed as a musician, as a student, and as a teacher. I learned how to manage my time and study efficiently. Bible classes taught me how to study the Word and apply it to my life. Those are all skills that I am continuing to hone and use today.
How did your experience at Evangel prepare you for life after graduation?
Evangel taught me the value of putting my relationship with Jesus at the center of my life. At Evangel, I began to learn how to dig into the Word and develop my relationship with Him. I still have and reference some of the books we were required to read in our Bible classes. Additionally, the time management and study skills help me balance my family time, church involvement, and professional responsibilities today.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Keep your focus on your relationship with Jesus. Teaching is incredibly rewarding–but also incredibly demanding. The world offers many ways to deal with the stress and demands of teaching, but a relationship with Jesus is the only thing that will truly help you be the best teacher you can be.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
I would look for someone who has a passion for children and for education. That person would have to be willing to work hard to meet the increasing needs of current students to the best of his or her ability. New teachers also need to have a hopeful, positive, teachable attitude and a desire to apply advice and direction from mentors.