Congratulations to Sarah Schlottman, the speech and drama teacher at Abilene High School, for being named a recipient of the prestigious Kansas Horizon Award! Sarah, a second-year teacher in the Wichita State University Transition to Teaching Program (T2T), was recognized for her exceptional dedication and passion for teaching.

Our Transition to Teaching program is a two-year alternative licensure program that combines graduate-level coursework (In Person, Hybrid, and Online) with full-time, paid teaching as the teacher of record in a specific subject area. Participants will fulfill teacher licensure (KSDE) course requirements while enrolled in the T2T program with an option to complete a Master of Arts in Teaching degree with an additional 7 credit hours.

On January 9, 2025, Dr. Randy Watson, the Kansas Commissioner of Education, called Schlottman to announce the exciting news. "We have thousands of outstanding teachers in their second year," Dr. Watson stated. "Only 32 across the state are selected for this honor, and Sarah is one of them."

This recognition places Sarah among the best new educators in Kansas and earns her a place in the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network (KEEN). As part of the award, Schlottman will be invited to the KEEN Conference and an honorary banquet in February, where she will be celebrated for her educational contributions.

Sarah's commitment to her students and the Abilene community has not gone unnoticed. Known for her tireless work ethic, her dedication to providing students with a transformative experience in speech and drama, and her constant drive to inspire others, Sarah has become a true role model for her peers and students alike.

"We are incredibly proud of Sarah and the remarkable work she does each day to help her students succeed," said Abilene High School Principal, Greg Brown. "This recognition is a testament to her dedication, and we are thrilled to see her being acknowledged on a state level."

Sarah’s passion for teaching and her unwavering commitment to student success make her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award. Congratulations, Sarah!