Kaitlyn McWane
Kaitlyn McWane
Class Year
’23
Current home
Round Lake, Illinois
Major(s)
Elementary Education, Special Education
Current Position
7th Grade English Language Arts Teacher at Beach Park School District
Thanks to the preparation provided by Carthage’s Education Department, elementary education graduate Kaitlyn McWane ’23 was able to land a teaching position before graduation. As a seventh-grade English teacher for the Beach Park School District, Ms. McWane helps students learn written expression, sharpen their grammar, support arguments with literary evidence, and analyze literature. Ms. McWane was honored to be nominated for Teacher of the Year by the Regional Office of Education for her dedication. “Thanks to Carthage, I had the skills necessary to acquire a position before graduation and excel in the expectations of my school,” she says.
Ms. McWane makes an effort to stay in touch with the friends she made at Carthage. She praises Carthage for allowing her to make such long-lasting relationships and giving her an enjoyable college experience. “I have many fond memories here.”
How did Carthage prepare you?
“The faculty at Carthage did a fantastic job preparing me for the classroom through their devout passion and thorough lessons. The ability to be in a classroom from year one was pivotal in deciding if this career was right for me.”
How has your liberal arts education benefited you?
“Having the ability to have a well-rounded cultural view on students and their needs allowed me to become a more empathetic educator.”
Why did you choose Carthage?
“I chose Carthage because of its closeness in proximity to home and its fantastic education program.”
What Carthage professors played a part in your success and how?
“Nina Weisling was a fabulous professor, and I give her a great deal of thanks for her expertise.”
What role have the values in Carthage's mission, "Seeking Truth, Building Strength, Inspiring Service — Together" played in your life?
“Carthage allowed me to gain a true sense of self. The education curriculum created the rigor and strength to become a lifelong learner and allowed me to follow my passion of helping others through being an educator.”
What's your favorite Carthage memory?
“I met my best friend and bridesmaids at Carthage. I am so thankful for the friendships Carthage allowed me to make.”
Tips for current Carthage students?
“Don’t be afraid to change your mind and lead with your heart — whether with your academic or personal decisions.”