June 1, 2008 - Sara Weikel, a third grade teacher at Maplewood Elementary in the North Kansas City School District, was awarded a full scholarship, including books and tuition, to attend Grantham University (www.grantham.edu) at the Northland Regional Chamber of Commerce’s “Excellence in Education” banquet. 

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity Grantham University has given me,” said Sara Weikel.  “This fall, I plan to pursue a Master of Science in Information Technology which will help me with my duties as a teacher, especially with the wealth of technology accessible to students today.”

Grantham University, an online university based in Kansas City, Mo., specializes in educating working adults. Grantham’s flexible online degree programs provide working adults with the opportunity to further their education, while balancing their personal and professional responsibilities.

“We’re very proud of Sara,” said Joe McGrath, provost at Grantham University.  “We understand that work and family consume a lot of time for our students, which is why our online classes are self-paced, allowing a student to study and complete assignments when it is convenient.”

“As an educator myself, I believe in preparing my students to become life-long learners,” adds Weikel.  “I believe it’s my responsibility to continue educating myself to not only set an example for my students, but more importantly, so that I can grow and provide the best teaching to my students.”

Last year’s winner of the Grantham University scholarship was Kendra Carpenter, a third grade teacher at Chouteau Elementary School in the North Kansas City School District.

Carpenter is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at Grantham University.  She enjoys taking online classes and likes the flexibility of self-paced study.  In addition to being a full-time teacher, she’s also a mother to a three-year old daughter.

“I’m a third grade teacher, so I don’t have experience in the business world,” said Carpenter.  “I have definitely stretched myself in a new way and I’m learning a lot.  I have always enjoyed school and learning.  My MBA studies offer me a new challenge.”

As Sara Weikel embarks on her Master of Science program later this year, Carpenter has already completed 15 of the required 36 hours for her MBA program.

“Because our scholarships cover books and tuition, our winners are able to focus on their studies and pursue their educational goals,” adds McGrath.

About Grantham University:
Established in 1951, Grantham University is a private institution that specializes in online education for the working adult student. Its mission is to provide accessible, affordable and academically challenging online courses and degree programs that prepare its graduates for careers in business, engineering technology, computer science, criminal justice, information technology and other professional fields. Grantham University offers a military scholarships and discount program for active duty, reserve, guard, veterans and military family members, as well as scholarships for law enforcement professionals. Grantham's courses are 100% online, allowing students to study at home, at work, on Temporary Duty (TDY) or from almost anywhere in the world. Grantham University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC). For more information, visit www.grantham.edu or call 1-800-955-2527.