Concordia University, Nebraska

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Academic Excellence and Innovation Fund awards grant for early childhood initiative

by Hope Nelson

Seward, NE (02/25/2025) — The Academic Excellence and Innovation Fund recently awarded Concordia Professor of Education Dr. Annette Anschutz a grant for $20,000 to develop the Early Childhood Initiative, which partners with Lutheran schools, districts and organizations to develop Gospel-focused professional development opportunities that represent the best practices in the field of early childhood education.

"Early childhood preschool programs are the gateway to Lutheran education kindergarten through grade 12," Anschutz said. "Equipping and supporting early childhood teachers and directors is essential."

She said that Concordia University, Nebraska is uniquely equipped to provide educational support to those who are serving in Lutheran early childhood programs regardless of their level of education or experience.

"Concordia University Nebraska prepares students in the area of early childhood education, promoting an in-depth knowledge of pedagogy and leadership skills," Anschutz said. "Within the scope of the preparatory program, students gain an understanding of faith formation in the Lutheran school setting which promotes a stronger life-path for all children in our Christ-centered classrooms across all districts."

"With the need to address head-on the shortage of appropriately certified teachers in our Lutheran early childhood settings, Concordia University Nebraska stands out as an excellent place for training early childhood teachers currently serving in the field and those who desire to continue or complete their teacher certification," she said.

Anschutz emphasized that the professional development initiative would focus on leadership development, faith formation, play-based learning, developmentally appropriate practice and authentic assessment.

About Concordia University, Nebraska

Concordia University, Nebraska, founded in 1894, is a fully accredited, coeducational university of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod located in Seward, Nebraska, which currently serves more than 1,700 students. Concordia offers more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in an excellent academic and Christ-centered community that equips men and women for lives of learning, service and leadership in the church and world. For more information, visit cune.edu.

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