Pocatello High School teacher receives Albion Center Scholarship to pursue graduate degree at Idaho State University

In a lecture hall at Idaho State University, a history professor did more than expect her students to memorize dates and facts. She brought past events to life, creating a vibrant living narrative where her students could dive into a deeper understanding of history. For Cassie Ashdown, this moment sparked a newfound desire to teach her own students in that same way: igniting a curiosity in them to learn more and help them see why history still matters today. 

“I wanted to help students move beyond memorization to develop critical thinking skills and make meaningful connections between historical events and contemporary issues in the United States,” said Ashdown. 

With a master’s degree in history already under her belt, Ashdown has extensive knowledge in specialized historical research. It wasn’t until she started teaching freshman history at Pocatello High School that she realized there was a gap in her subject knowledge and her ability to create an engaging curriculum for her students. 

“As I started creating my own curriculum, I realized there was a gap between what I knew and how effectively I could present that knowledge in ways that truly resonated with students,” she said.

With the financial support of the Albion Center Scholarship for Educator Excellence, Ashdown will be pursuing a second master’s degree in Fall 2025 in Instructional Design and Technology at Idaho State University to bridge that gap. The program’s flexible online model will allow her to remain committed to her career and students as well as her family responsibilities. Her initial attraction to this program was the practical coursework that will allow her to immediately apply what she is learning to her own classroom. Her goal is to create a more dynamic, interactive learning environment using new technology that brings history to life for her students. 

“I’m especially excited to incorporate more technology into my teaching in ways that foster creativity and critical thinking,” she shared. “This degree will help me design a curriculum that truly engages students and supports deeper learning.”

Looking forward, Ashdown sees herself not only transforming her own classroom but mentoring fellow educators to do the same. She envisions herself creating an impact beyond her students by developing and sharing curriculum resources for her district and eventually on a larger scale.  

“I want to support other educators in making historical content more relevant and engaging. Ultimately, I hope to contribute to systemic improvements in history education,” she said.

Completing courses from the Albion Center for Professional Development and receiving the Albion Center Scholarship for Educator Excellence have played a crucial role in advancing Ashdown’s educational goals. The scholarship represents more than just funding for her. The opportunity to further her education and enhance her career validates her commitment to lifelong learning and is a powerful message to her students and her own daughter.

“Personally, this opportunity allows me to model for my daughter that education is important at every stage of life,” said Ashdown. “Professionally, it empowers me to become a more effective educator and ultimately make a greater difference for my students.”

With a long-term goal of earning a Ph.D. in Instructional Design and Technology, Ashdown’s dedication to learning and growth is truly inspiring. By embracing her own education and her commitment to her career, she is transforming what it means to be an educator and inspiring the next generation.  

The Albion Center Scholarship for Educator Excellence will provide Ashdown with up to $4,000 per semester, with a lifetime maximum of $16,000—helping her save nearly 70% on graduate tuition.

The Albion Center for Professional Development at Idaho State University offers affordable, high-quality, graduate-level, self-paced courses to help K–12 educators nationwide enhance their skills, renew certification, and advance their careers. To further support educators, the Albion Center Scholarship for Educator Excellence provides up to $16,000 to select recipients pursuing 100% online master’s degrees at Idaho State University in specialized education fields—making graduate education more accessible for future leaders in education.