��Vlog: Education & Teaching Blog

7 Valuable Things I Learned When Student Teaching

2026-04-25T14:58:37.400204-04:00

At the end of every education major’s journey toward certification is student teaching—and it will be one of the most exhilarating and nerve-wracking parts of your college career. All of your education courses prepare you for this final step. But as exciting as student teaching is, it also leaves you with many worries and questions as you prepare. However, there are many steps you can take to ease the transition from student to student teacher.

1. Get to know your cooperating teacher in advance

Whether you find your teacher yourself or your college does this for you, it is important to get to know your cooperating teacher before you begin. As soon as you are given your assignment, reach out to them either through email or phone and arrange a time to meet. This will not only make you look professional, but it will ease your nerves for the first day. When you meet ask if there is anything you can do to prepare and get to know some of the basic classroom practices and materials. Then, once you start, ask questions! That’s how you’ll learn.

2. Get to know your school too

You should know your school and district’s website like the back of your hand way before your first day as a student teacher. What kind of population attends the school? What resources are available? Who’s the principal and what are they like? Who are the special teachers (art, music, physical education, etc.)? What are the school hours? Sometimes you can even find more information about your teacher and classroom on the school website.

3. Start liking caffeine

You’re going to be quite tired. The student teaching schedule is very different from your college schedule. Extra caffeine will give you the extra push you need to get through your day and keep your enthusiasm up while teaching. And you don’t have to magically start loving coffee, either. Plenty of teas have the caffeine to get you through the day!

4. Find a lesson plan template that works for you

Sometimes your school or cooperating teacher will already have a lesson plan template they use. Other times it’ll be all up to you. It’s best to be comfortable with a template that works best for you! Explore different methods and figure out your style.

5. Be open and flexible

Be open to new ideas, criticisms, change, cooperation, student differences...anything you may encounter while student teaching. It’ll all help you grow and become a better teacher out in the real world. You’re there to learn and to help your students learn. No matter how stressed you get, don’t lose sight of that.

6. Be professional

Professionalism covers many things. Professional attire is a must. You should stock up on dress pants, appropriate shirts and blouses, and comfortable shoes. One of the best ways to be a professional is to be on time, and “on time” means 15 minutes early! Always use professional language and never badmouth students or other teachers. Treat every day like an interview. (If you’re hoping to work at that school in the future, every day practically is an interview.)

7. Don’t be nervous

Everyone understands you’re still learning. The other faculty members have been in your shoes before and are there to help you. Don’t be afraid to ask if you don’t know something. As scary as this all can seem, it is supposed to be (and more often than not is) really fun! Enjoy your time, make use of your colleagues, and find the good in each day and each student!

Student teaching is one of the more intimidating hands-on experiences of any major, but your college wouldn’t be sending you into the classroom if you weren’t ready. You’ll have support and guidance along the way, and with this advice, you can step up confidently into the role and positively impact a classroom on your way to a bright future of shaping young minds.

If you haven't figured out who and what you want to teach, check out our blog How to Choose the Grade and Subject You Want to Teach for advice on making this big decision.

3 Things You Need to Know About Student-Teaching Middle School

2026-04-25T14:58:37.397514-04:00

It’s hard to imagine a more transitional phase of a child’s education than middle school. No longer in the sheltered embrace of the elementary classroom, but before entering the big, bad high school. Oh, and no more recess, which might be the ultimate tragedy. When student-teaching in middle school, you have a unique opportunity to guide your students through this time. This also means it can be an especially demanding role, but you might find you get as much out of the experience—if not more—than you put in.

1. Middle schoolers are as afraid as you are

If you remember being 13 years old, then it's unlikely that you would ever want to be 13 again. And if you don’t remember your time as a young teen, let me remind you: You were probably awkward, gangly, and pubescent, with emerging responsibilities and limited freedom. You're entering a new school full of exciting potential—and it’s downright horrifying. How do you use the lock on your locker? Where is third-period history? How do you find X in Algebra, and why would you want to?

As anxious as you might be as a student-teacher, remember you couldn't be any more frightened than your fresh crop of students. If you're worried about your first day of teaching outfit, they're more concerned about the way they look. If you think you might lose your way to the bathroom, they've been up all night studying the map of the school. But all this fear is okay; in fact, it will bond you tightly together. As you show up and teach each day, you'll learn that it's okay to be scared of talking in front of your class, to be worried about knowing the material you’re teaching, and to be nervous about how to handle classroom conflicts. And as you learn to deal with and shake off your fear, you can assist your students with the same. Much of their acting out will stem from a place of fear—fear over where they fit in socially, if they can trust you, or their competence in class. Help your shy students blossom by boosting their confidence, provide structure for your boisterous students, and offer the comfort of boundaries for students who like to test limits.

2. Middle school is a time of possibility, change, and development—for you too

For me, teaching in middle school was a big change from my college courses. Until then, I had spent my time taking notes, reading textbooks, and writing essays. I was rarely expected to engage in public speaking, and even courses on classroom management were grounded in theory. Stepping into the classroom was a completely new world. But I quickly recognized the opportunity it was to grow my skills in teaching and sharing all the facts I had just spent the past four years shoving into my brain.

Middle schoolers are used to the world of elementary school, with recess and snack time and teachers who mistakenly get called “mom” because they're safe and gentle. Middle school is the transition from childhood to the young adult years and preparation for the pressures of high school. You get to be the tour guide as they explore their identities, personalities, dreams, and goals for the future. It's an exciting stage of intellectual, emotional, and social development, characterized by an increased level of empathy for others and engagement in critical thinking. The contents of your lessons can engage these new intellectual developments too! You can teach more complex math problems, study books that explore abstract concepts, get more in-depth with the scientific method (especially when it comes to making and testing hypotheses), and pick out the patterns of cause and effect in historical events.

3. Middle schoolers desperately need mentors

Middle school gets a bad reputation. When I first told people that my student-teaching semester was going to be spent in a small city, at an overcrowded middle school with youth who came from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, people politely wished me luck. And not-so-politely questioned my sanity. But not only can I confidently say that my student-teaching experience in middle school is not full of horror stories—I know it actually offered wonderful chances for connections with students.

It's often said that youth need at least one adult role model or mentor in their life to achieve their goals, like graduating high school or college, successfully. You can be that mentor to students in your classroom. As middle schoolers begin the process of breaking away from their parents and claiming their autonomy, they need positive adult influences in their lives outside of their immediate family. They aren't yet emotionally, socially, or physically able to handle adulthood, but this is when they start trying. While parents and some of the other older teachers are uncool, you're younger and more familiar with the grind of classes. You can connect better with students while serving as an example of what they can achieve.

As a mentor to your students, you have a lot to offer. You can provide guidance and show how discipline in the classroom can lead to self-discipline and future success. Demonstrate courteous and respectful behavior to your students through your actions, and remember to give them a break. Teaching middle school as a young adult, but you remember how much harder being in middle school is. Give your students chances to thrive and be there to support them when they need it!

Not sure middle school is the grade you want to teach? Check out our blog How to Choose the Grade and Subject You Want to Teach to help you make a final decision.

Top 5 Secrets to Know About Teaching Elementary School

2026-04-25T14:58:37.395291-04:00

I’ve spent a great deal of time around kids in a classroom setting. Aside from being a kid in a classroom, both my parents are teachers. This has given me the chance to experience school from both sides, from volunteering at recess in middle school to my first big classroom experience as a teacher’s aide for a kindergarten summer school class. Currently, I help with directed teaching as a class, so I’ve picked up a few things about being in the classroom. If you’re looking to major in Education, especially if you’re hoping to teach younger kids, these tips may be beneficial in providing a perspective to life in the classroom.

1. You need a backbone

Little kids are the most brutally honest characters you’ll ever meet. They’ll break you down unless you can fend for yourself. Kids say exactly what they see, which is a double-edged sword. It’s not that they’re bold or outgoing; they’re just honest. Keep this in mind if your students tend to be outspoken. It’s normal and natural, but it can become an issue when they start verbally attacking other students. You have to be able to protect yourself and other students. It’s important to remind kids of The Golden Rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated. While you may have to take an insult now and again, it's also your job to make them realize what they say to others might be hurtful.

2. There’s never enough sleep

School starts early in the morning, and students don’t get enough sleep as is. But it can be even more challenging to get enough sleep if you’re behind the teacher’s desk. When I was helping with summer school, I came in so tired one day I napped on the bathroom floor. I was just an aide, but imagine if the teacher was falling asleep in the middle of a lesson! Consider your sleep habits and whether you’ll be able to manage them better as a teacher. You may need to learn to adapt to earlier bedtimes or function simply on fewer hours.

3. Words have power

Be careful with anything you say, because kids pick things up quickly. I’m sure we all remember something an adult said that made our eyes well up with the impact it had on us. Use your words to encourage and build up your students rather than break them down. For example, instead of telling a student they’re being mean, explain why their actions are hurtful to others. It puts a greater emphasis on the power the student’s actions have and draws attention to his or her behavior without making them feel like they’re a bad kid. It can be difficult to always think about what you’re going to say, but it’s necessary—you’re a strong influence on them.

4. Patience is key

Young children are still learning how to function and fit in. They’re still developing. It’s important to remember it may take them varying times to figure things out, and you have to remind them that it’s okay. Don’t punish kids just because they can be irritating. An annoying kid is not a bad kid, and I’ve seen even the most experienced teachers forget that. When in doubt, take a deep breath and try to move past the frustration to get to the root of the problem with the student at hand.

5. It’s worth it

I had one student who would always write his name backward, so every day I would practice with him. Now he’s in the second grade, and every time I see him, he shows me a big smile and his name written correctly. That was just one thing I did in a month; imagine all the challenges teachers help students overcome in a whole school year. No matter how hard it seems, this job will be fulfilling and worth it in the end when you leave a major positive impact on your students.

Of course, teaching isn’t for everyone. Some people aren’t willing to sacrifice sleep, while others lack patience. Being a teacher means remaining gently firm and minding what you say at all times. Take time to volunteer with kids inside and outside a classroom setting to be sure it’s something you’re willing to do. We need good teachers in the system so future generations can be made of people with the brightest ideas and the most brilliant minds for society to thrive. It’s so important to reach out and teach kids everything they need to know. Remember all this as you work to be one of those great teachers.

Find your perfect education program by perusing our featured teaching colleges lists to learn about universities across the country!

Infographic: How to Prep for Back to School

2026-04-25T14:58:37.392674-04:00

The new school year is upon us, and teachers are doing their best to prepare for the new influx of students. It’s a challenge that few understand. Between “summer slide” learning regressions and curricula and classrooms to prepare, many teachers start the planning process early to facilitate the best learning environment and ensure their students can become the best versions of themselves from the moment they walk into the classroom. Learn how industry experts prepare their classrooms and students for success from the first day with the infographic below.

Infographic provided by Worthington Direct

Don’t prep too early

Enjoy the summer break. “I do not think about school until August 1. Then it’s go time. Time to use all of that recharging time and start thinking about how to make the upcoming school year the best it can be!” — Michelle D’Errico Campbell, 7^th grade English

Fight summer learning loss

“After the long break, students may need a recap from last year, so focus some back-to-school activities on remediation for last year’s skills.” — Jessica Wertheim, Chief Learning Officer at Dearest, Inc.

Reflect on last year

“Reflect on what worked well, what needs improving, and suggestions from students/parents provided [through] an end-of-year questionnaire.” — Annette Durbin, EdD, The Digital Teacher Blog

Stay updated

“Peruse blogs, LinkedIn, and other sources for trends or ideas to build upon for making the new year enticing for staff and students.” — Dr. Aaron L. Smith, The Innovative Catalyst Speaker

Implement bedtimes

Implement a regular bedtime routine 10 days prior to school starting. “When school begins, your child’s body, energy, and focus will be prepared for school’s physical and mental expectations and demands.” — Dr. Fran Walfish, Beverly Hills Family and Relationship Psychotherapist

Gather intel on students

“Creating a classroom environment that supports all learners is the best way to create engaged, successful students.” — Colleen Wildenhaus, Founder of Good Bye Anxiety, Hello Joy

Change your mindset

“I let the ‘returning’ mindset mull around. Then, when I go back into my teaching space, I’m in the right mental space to take off!” — Adam Cole, jazz musician and author

Overall this year, embrace the freedom to teach

“When classrooms are freed from the tyranny of testing and test prep, we have time for project-based learning—so students can analyze problems in their communities, figure out potential solutions, and advocate for change.” — Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers

Read the full blog post from Worthington Direct here, and for more great classroom advice, check out our Education and Teaching section!

6 Simple Ways to Celebrate Earth Day at Home

2026-04-25T14:58:37.389829-04:00

In today's fast-paced world, where we're spending more time indoors than ever, the simple act of stepping outside can work wonders for our health and well-being. Science tells us that exposure to nature can alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, making it essential to carve out time in our day for outdoor activities. This is especially true for students, who should reap the health and de-stressing benefits of spending time in a green space—and what better day to do that than Earth Day? “You don’t need to leave home to celebrate Earth Day. Remember, nature starts at your back door,” says Kris Kiser, President of the TurfMutt Foundation. “Get outside, mow your lawn, trim bushes, plant a butterfly bush. By becoming a steward of your yard, you’re helping preserve your own corner of the overall ecosystem.” Here are six ways you can celebrate Earth Day without leaving home as well as resources that families and educators can use to learn more about Earth Day.

1. Step outside your back door

Science has proven that simply spending time outdoors is good for our health and well-being. Researchers found that people living in neighborhoods with more birds, shrubs, and trees are less likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, and stress. And multiple studies have shown that plants in hospital recovery rooms and views of gardens help patients heal up to one day faster than those who are in more sterile environments. So get outside and enjoy the scenery if you can!

2. Make the outdoors your latest assignment

Your backyard has a purpose: It’s a canvas for creativity and physical activity. It acts as an outdoor living room, and it’s a safe place for pets and kids in your household to play. Go outside to assess your space if you have one. What’s working well with how it’s currently set up? What could be improved? What can you plan to do in your yard with your family? Is there anything that needs to be cleaned up so your backyard dreams can take shape? There’s no time like the present to plan and prepare, and many plants and bushes can be ordered online for delivery.

3. Learn about plant life

It’s a great time to get educated about climate zone–appropriate plants, the importance of pollinators, and how backyards can support local wildlife. Once your preliminary online research is done, conduct a plant inventory to determine what’s currently thriving in your yard and what you may want to add. Match that up against the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to determine the best types of turf, trees, shrubs, and plants for your climate zone.

4. Plant something!

Tired of being cooped up inside? Get your feet in the grass and your hands in the soil right in your own backyard. You could also pot some plants and flowers for inside your home if your lawn space is limited. Visit a garden center for supplies or have them delivered from your local nursery and start gardening!

5. Keep pollinators in mind

Birds, bees, butterflies, and other creatures are critical to our food supply and a healthy environment. Your yard is an important part of that connected ecosystem because it provides much-needed food and shelter for pollinators, so select a variety of plants that will bloom all year long. The Audubon Society’s database can help determine which birds will be attracted to which plants for unique regions so you can make good choices about what to plant and draw feathered friends to your at-home sanctuary.

6. Connect others to nature

Looking to incorporate Earth Day into a school project or classroom activity? Teachers can find free online tools and lesson plans from the TurfMutt Foundation. These environmental education resources—based on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) principles—can help young students learn about the benefits of taking care of and spending time in nature. The lessons include outdoor-themed activity sheets and prompts for children in grades K–8 that guide them in learning about, exploring, and having fun with nature and science in their own backyards. High school students can also take a look and enjoy or share with their family members!

As we celebrate Earth Day, don't forget that our connection to nature begins right outside our back doors. You can become a steward of your own slice of the ecosystem by stepping outside to soak in the benefits of nature, transforming your space into a haven of creativity and activity, and educating yourself and others about the importance of plants and pollinators. Let's embrace these opportunities to foster a deeper appreciation for our natural world and inspire future generations to do the same.

Looking for a college that appreciates the Earth as much as you do? Check out this list of The Best Colleges and Universities for an Eco-Friendly Campus Lifestyle.

5 Great Reasons You Should Become a Teacher

2026-04-25T14:58:37.386170-04:00

It’s no secret that good teachers are an important part of creating a stable, well-educated workforce. Unfortunately, the United States is facing a serious teacher shortage and will lack around 200,000 qualified teachers by the year 2025, according to the Economic Policy Institute. And the coronavirus pandemic has made the situation even worse; USA Today reported that extended school closures and the sudden transition to online learning derailed many student teachers who were earning their certifications and limited their experience leading classrooms.

If something doesn’t give soon, the number of overcrowded schools will increase while the number of people willing and able to teach those classes dwindles. Now more than ever, we must encourage students to consider careers in education and teaching. While there’s admittedly not much money to be made in education, there are a lot of advantages to becoming a teacher. Here are just a few!

1. It's fun

According to a past Gallup poll, teachers are the most likely of all professionals to say they “smiled or laughed a lot yesterday” and consistently report experiencing enjoyment and happiness in their day-to-day routines. As anyone who has ever worked in a classroom will tell you, kids are often hilarious and highly entertaining. I taught for a long time and, even toward the end of my teaching career, my students were always inventing new ways to shock and surprise me.

2. You’ll learn a lot

It doesn’t matter what grade you decide to teach—you’ll inevitably be surprised by how much your students have to teach you. You’ll uncover things about the subject matter that you didn’t know, but your students will teach you other things too, like how to be patient and how to motivate people.

3. It will help you keep your own life in perspective

Kids tend to make mountains out of molehills; an issue that would seem small to someone with experience may seem like the end of the world to a teenager. A large part of being a teacher (especially if you end up teaching middle school) is helping your students learn to discern between a fixable problem and an actual crisis. The process often allows you to keep your own life in perspective. It’s harder to justify acting childish when you work with children every day.

4. Teaching is a respectable profession

I’m the first to admit that teachers are often underappreciated, but our society does respect the many sacrifices that teachers are asked to make. Teaching is also one of the most trusted professions; according to ratings by Forbes, high school teachers fall just behind medical doctors, nurses, and pharmacists in terms of honesty and ethics. And with the recent transition to homeschooling and online learning, many parents are realizing their children’s teachers deserve a lot more respect.

5. Teachers get to be a positive influence on the next generation of young people

Several years ago, Michelle Obama wrote an op-ed for U.S. News & World Report discussing how “the most influential people...will be the people who stand up every day in front of their classroom.” According to the former First Lady, “We all remember the impact a special teacher had on us—a teacher who refused to let us fall through the cracks; who pushed us and believed in us when we doubted ourselves; who sparked in us a lifelong curiosity and passion for learning.”

For many people, this is the most attractive aspect of a career in education: the opportunity to inspire and motivate people. That said, it doesn’t matter whether you want to help guide kids around the dangerous pitfalls of adolescence or you’re just looking for a way to have fun in an academic setting—teaching is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling professions a person can pursue.

Happy Teacher Appreciation Day to all the amazing educators out there! Do you aspire to become like your favorite teacher? Request information from our featured Education programs and schools to start your journey.

Special Shout-Outs for Teacher Appreciation Week

2026-04-25T14:58:37.382100-04:00

Today marks the end of Teacher Appreciation Week! This special week was created in 1984 by the National Parent Teacher Association to honor the passionate and skilled men and women who teach across America. Like everything else lately, this week was a little different. Instead of seeing your favorite teachers in person at school, we hope you got to show your appreciation by whatever means possible—through a video chat, an email, an instant message, or other social distancing means.

We know a lot of students are missing their teachers right now (and vice versa), so we asked the ��Vlog community to tell us about a teacher who deserves a special shout-out. Here are just a few of the awesome teachers out there who are making school and this difficult situation a little bit easier.

Mr. Zamora from Veterans Memorial High School

“Mr. Zamora is my favorite teacher. He’s very involved with extracurriculars, and his teaching style makes AP Biology fun. In addition to teaching AP Biology, Mr. Zamora is a soccer coach, PBS Challenge (quiz show) coach, robotics coach, and science fair coach. We traveled all over the country together from Pittsburgh to Phoenix for science fair and soccer competitions.” — Ibrahim Al-Akash from Corpus Christi, TX

Mr. Pereira from Summit High School

“Profe Pereira is a Spanish teacher, and I met him my freshman year. He's so nice and caring of all of his students. When people needed help, he was always there to clarify anything and everything. Even though I didn't have his class sophomore year, every time I visited his class that year, he was always welcoming. Everyone that meets him always says how nice he is and how they wish they could've been in his class. I can't wait to see him again next school year. I want to thank him for all he's taught me and give him a big hug for being so kind to me, for helping me with school stuff, and also just for listening. Thank you Profe for always being there!”— Celeste Villegas from Fontana, CA

Mr. Houchens from North Laurel High School

“Mr. Houchens is an incredible teacher with a vast and impressive knowledge of his subject. He takes interest in his students and relates to them on a personal level, making him truly exceptional.” — Arden King from London, KY

Mr. Bellini from Bethel Park High School

“Mr. Mike Bellini (11^th grade English) is a great teacher and a great person. Not only has he gotten us ready for college and the real world by teaching us essay writing for college, he’s given us lessons on and relating to the real world (even though the in-person teaching was cut short this year). He also mixes in stories from his travels around the world, and his personal experiences into his lessons. He is the teacher I want to be. He isn’t strict but he pushes us to be the best we can be. I tell any sophomore I talk to who’s taking honors English to make sure they’re in his class.” — John Niccoli from Bethel Park, PA

Ms. Isenhour from Cedar Ridge High School

“My English teacher, Ms. Isenhour, is the perfect embodiment of what every teacher should aspire to be. She makes every lesson fun and memorable while connecting with students. Even during a global pandemic, she tries her very best to connect with us. She sends out surveys every week on how we like her teaching methods. She adapts to how we learn best, which is the mark of a brilliant teacher. She also shows a deep level of care outside the classroom; she is the photography club teacher, and she does a fantastic job. She’s kind in everything she does and shows genuine concern for her students. I’ve loved being her student, and I can genuinely say she’s been one of my favorite teachers.” — Anonymous student from Hillsborough, NC

Mrs. Minor from Comanche High School

“Mrs. Minor is the greatest teacher of all time. She not only gets the point across, but she connects with and cares about students as individuals. She loves us all and deserves the world!” — Shayson Lenee’ Hodges H. from Comanche, OK

Mr. Kelsey from San Jacinto College

Austin Rhoden from Houston would like to give a shout-out to Ross Kelsey!

Mr. Norman from Provo High School

“Tory Norman is a business teacher at Provo High, who’s also an advisor for two clubs. He pours his heart into every lesson, every afterschool activity, and every student. He's not only wonderful at teaching, but he's also an all-around brilliant man. He's kind and makes sure every single student knows that they're unique and more valuable than any mountain of gold in his D&D sessions. He learns everybody's names and has conversations with each of them, usually not about business or school but just about topics that person enjoys and how they're doing. I have yet to meet one person—whether that be administrators, teachers, or students—who doesn't love Mr. Norman. He's humorous, hard-working, sincere, and a wonderful light at Provo High School.” — Sarah Jane Bartholomew from Provo, UT

Mr. Martinez from Madera South High School

“I fortunately do have a favorite teacher. His name is Thomas Martinez, and he’s my US history teacher. He has always been so understanding, but he also never lets us give up. He can hold a conversation about anything without judgment. He tries to understand how we feel about certain things—whether it be how the class works or the classwork, he usually works around it. He’s also someone who you can consider a friend and not just a teacher.” — Jocelyn Avila-Nava from Madera, CA

Mrs. I from Griffith High School

“She’s helped grow my love for science to be stronger than it already was. Her class was what made me realize medicine was the career field for me! Mrs. I was the best teacher I’ve ever had, and I’m so thankful to have been her student.” — Anna Guistolisi from Griffith, IN

Ms. Moreno from Presidio School

“My APUSH teacher, Ms. Shelley Moreno, is the best teacher I've ever had, and the way she teaches in both a kind and stern manner has provided me with an example of the type of teacher I'd want to be.” — Anonymous from Tucson, AZ

Mr. Manning from Catholic High School

“Scott Manning is our religion teacher, but he isn't like a normal religion teacher. He gets us and understands who we are and what we go through, and it earns him a lot of respect from me and all my classmates. I don’t know if he’s ever been recognized for the great job he does, and I think it’s only fair that we recognize him for the phenomenal job he's done for us.” — Jack Schliewe from Baton Rouge, LA

Coach Rhea from South Hills High School

“I met Coach Rhea my freshman year, and honestly, she’s the best. She makes sure that we understand and gives us time to finish our work. She's not just a teacher; she cares about our feelings. When someone is down, she always makes sure that person is alright.” — Farah Hindo from Fort Worth, TX

Professor May from Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Sabrah McHenry from Clarion, Pennsylvania, would like to say thank you to Jennifer May!

Mr. Williams from Lanier High School

“The teacher I'd like to shout-out is Mr. Christopher Williams! He’s my Algebra 2 teacher, and he definitely helped make my senior year a breeze! He genuinely loves teaching and is amazing at what he does. Math is a tricky subject of mine because I forget certain steps after a period of time, but everything Mr. Williams taught stuck with me from beginning to end. I truly appreciate him for his kind heart and making math fun!” — Esther Anjolaoluwa Gbadebo from Sugar Hill, GA

Mr. Norris from Dillon High School

“I do have a teacher that deserves a shout-out. His name is James Norris, and he was my world geography teacher. He never gave up on his students. He always motivated me and treated me like I was his own child. He made every day better.” — Dukunde Marie-Paredes from Dillon, SC

Why do you want to become a teacher?

Some of our survey respondents are also interested in studying Education and Teaching in college—in part because of the amazing job their own teachers do! Here are a few reasons why they want to pursue this profession.

“My eventual goal is to be a college professor, but I would also like the opportunity to work with high schoolers. I’ve always loved history, and I want to share it with others. I often tutor my peers, and one of the best feelings in the world is watching someone go from confused to excitement as they start to grasp the concept. High school is also a very delicate time for many teenagers; I aspire to be the kind of teacher that inspires students to keep going even when it’s hard. I’ve had many teachers in the past who’ve meant the world to me, and I want to be that for someone else.” — Anonymous

“I want to teach so that I can be a role model for kids the way my teachers have been for me.” — Anonymous

“It seems fun being around kids and helping them with life.” — Farah H.

“I want to become a history teacher because I have an interest in history, and I also want to give my future students a good learning environment while also making them interested in my lessons. I know sometimes kids just try to get through a class and/or absolutely dread a class; I want to give students the opposite experience.” — John N.

Are you interested in becoming a teacher? Check out our featured colleges with great Education programs, or find more schools with Teaching majors using our College Search tool. And teachers: thank you for all you do, this week and year-round!

Spotlight on 5 Colleges With Inspiring Faculty Members

2026-04-25T14:58:37.379365-04:00

During your college search, you may find lists and rankings of schools with the “Best Undergraduate Teaching,” “Best College Professors,” or “Unusually Accessible Teachers.” Great colleges and universities hold themselves in high esteem because of the top-notch faculty and resources they provide for their students. Every academic year, they celebrate and honor the performance of their faculty and staff—and you can tell a lot about a school by the staff and faculty it employs. Universities and colleges should not only educate students but inspire them, along with the academic and neighboring communities. Here are five colleges known for high-caliber faculty members who inspire their students.

1. Fisher College of Business

The Max M. Fisher College of Business is part of The Ohio State University, a public research university. The College’s faculty stress the importance of students having one-on-one time with their professors, as paying attention to each individual student is crucial. Fisher College has concentrations in Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Human Resources, Leadership, Marketing, and much more. It only accepts a small number of students each year to better individually guide every student through academics and set them on the best career path for them. Fisher College President Steven Rich has helped the school grow and has spent most of his career in leadership positions, even serving the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.

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2. Baylor College of Medicine

Baylor College of Medicine is a private health sciences institution that's part of Baylor University. The school provides exceptional instruction to students, supports them in their academic and professional careers, and prides itself on sharing knowledge and inspiring students to practice medicine. Recently, the College appointed new board members to develop and approve the school’s mission. Such members include Fayez Sarofim & Co. chairman Christopher Sarofim and Vinmar International founder Vijay Goradia. Schools with faculty members in high positions at companies that care about the community inspire students to become strong, compassionate leaders.

3. Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science

The Mayo Clinic College of Medicine & Science is a renowned specialized medical college with both undergraduate and graduate programs. Located in Rochester, Minnesota, it provides a specialized curriculum to train physicians, health professionals, and scientists. Mayo Clinic has a reputation for small class sizes and a lot of one-on-one attention, with instructors heavily involved in the academic journey of every student. Likewise, they’re willing to help their students learn beyond the classroom. An inspiring school puts knowledge first and is willing to help its students grow, just as Mayo Clinic does. Its board of trustees includes Sam Di Piazza, recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. The College’s faculty members also include accomplished scientists, award winners, recognized authors, and talented physicians.

Connect me with Mayo Clinic undergraduate programs!

Connect me with Mayo Clinic grad school programs!

4. Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St. Louis is a private comprehensive institution in Missouri that provides its students with a high-quality education and access to renowned researchers and other resources. The faculty and staff prepare undergraduate students for graduate school and the professional world. The programs in the Schools of Law and Medicine are renowned, and the University's trustees are men and women to take inspiration from; members like Gaurav Garg, Anna Manning, and Henry Warshaw are CEOs and founders on the board that students can look up to.

5. Fordham University

Fordham University is a private research university in the Bronx, New York, with a reputation for having a strong sense of community. The University not only values its students but provides them with access to opportunities around the world. The faculty and staff are top notch and care about their students; many of the professors who work at Fordham also teach at Columbia University. With small class sizes, every student can count on individual attention and help outside of class if needed. Even the board members themselves have made contributions toward the University, like helping build new residence halls, a new law school, and more.

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The importance of dedicated faculty

Colleges and universities can help build a student’s mind by providing a foundation for future and current professionals. Not only do colleges provide students with structure during their education, but as part of the alumni, graduates often have a valuable networking community for the rest of their lives as well. Faculty and staff are an important but perhaps overlooked aspect to think about during your college search. The faculty members at your future college should have successful professional lives and stories that you can learn from—inspiring you to be the best you can possibly be.

Feeling inspired to work on your college search? Find even more schools with exceptional staff members using our College Search tool.

A Look at Where Teachers Are Needed Most in the US

2026-04-25T14:58:37.376555-04:00

There’s a shortage of teachers in the United States right now. In a (kind of) post-pandemic world, there are many different states in need of teachers, and specific subjects need more educators too. Whether you’re majoring in Education and thinking about changing specialties (or states) or you’re a high schooler who wants to pursue Education in college, now is a great time to consider your future in the field. Overall, teachers are in high demand, but certain types of teachers are in demand more than others. If you’re curious about where your educational career could head, here are the subjects and states that need teachers more than ever.

States that need teachers

Almost every state is facing a teacher shortage, though some places have a higher need than others. Here are a few of the states that need teachers the most. If you’re willing to relocate, you might want to consider them when thinking about where to go to college to become an educator or where you might want to live after you graduate.

Arizona

Arizona is one of the states experiencing some of the most extreme teacher shortages at the moment. Specifically, teachers are being sought in more rural areas of the state. Arizona is also seeking well-educated teachers in a variety of subjects.

California

California may be the state with the most severe school staffing crisis, with 80% of school districts experiencing some form of teacher shortage. Specifically, special education teachers are in high demand across the state, so consider this field when choosing your concentration.

Hawai’i

As beautiful and relaxing as life in Hawai’i can be, the high cost of living and the island's isolation can make it difficult for schools and districts to retain teachers in all subjects. Recently, they’ve even elected to raise teachers’ pay over the course of the next five years in order to combat this issue.

Nevada

Whether you’d rather migrate closer to the city center of Las Vegas or prefer to be in a more rural desert environment, both areas of the state of Nevada are in need of teachers of all kinds. Nevada can provide a variety of lifestyle options that may be perfect for your personal and professional life.

Washington

Washington is facing a teacher shortage specifically in the subjects of math and science, but they’re in need of more special education teachers too. Teachers are in high demand in both the larger cities and in more rural parts of the state.

Subjects that need teachers

In addition to states that need teachers overall, there are certain subjects that have been experiencing an overall decline in the number of teachers available. While it’s possible to use creative tools and learning solutions to fill the gaps in teaching, in the long run, teaching positions need to be filled in a variety of subjects like the ones below.

Mathematics

There’s been an overwhelming need for math teachers recently, across all levels and disciplines of the study. If you’re on your way to becoming a math teacher or interested in majoring in Math in college, this could be a calling for you!

Special education

Many states are in need of special education teachers, including California, Washington, Arizona, and more. Special education requires specific knowledge and academic specializations as well as calculated learning strategies and classroom tools, but it’s absolutely necessary to have in schools. Many teachers find this field particularly rewarding.

Bilingual education

Bilingual education—both in the languages themselves and in various subjects—has been growing in the past few years, and the need for bilingual education teachers has increased alongside it. If you speak a second or third language fluently, it could be an educational asset.

Foreign languages

Foreign language education isn’t the same as bilingual education, but it’s equally in need of more teachers. Many high schools don’t have a foreign language education teacher at all right now—whether that’s Spanish, French, Japanese, or any other language—so foreign language education teachers have been in much higher demand recently.

Social studies

Social studies is another discipline that has lost many teachers in recent years. Teaching students how civilizations and societies work can be really fun. If you’re interested in becoming a teacher, this could be a great avenue for you to explore.

There are so many states and subjects in need of more teachers. Whether you’re already a teacher or you’re thinking of becoming one, knowing where educators are needed can help you find a path that’s right for you and where you can fill a much-needed gap.

Get more advice on your path to becoming a teacher in our Education and Teaching section.

A Timeline of Important Events in Black History

2026-04-25T14:58:37.373773-04:00

February is Black History Month, a time to honor the achievements and anguish Black people in America have experienced in the past as well as the present. Did you know February was chosen to celebrate because it’s the month Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass were born? There’s an endless amount to learn and reflect on, with more history in the making every day.

Read on to explore some of the most significant moments in Black history over the past 200 years, including historical milestones in the field of education—though this list of events is just a drop in the bucket.

1830

The Abolitionist Movement is organized in an effort to end slavery in the US, causing great friction between slave-owning states in the South and anti-slavery states in the North. Among many achievements is the Underground Railroad, a secret network of safe houses that was established to help enslaved people escape to free states.

April 12, 1861

The American Civil War begins at Fort Sumter in South Carolina, starting the Union’s years-long fight against the Confederacy to abolish slavery.

January 1, 1863

The Emancipation Proclamation is issued by President Abraham Lincoln during the third year of the Civil War, stating that people enslaved in Confederate states “shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free."

April 9, 1865

Robert E. Lee surrenders the last major Confederate army to Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the Civil War.

June 19, 1865

Union soldiers arrive in Galveston, Texas, to let residents know slavery has been abolished. This day of celebration is also known as Juneteenth, Emancipation Day, and Black Independence Day, among other names.

December 6, 1865

The 13^th Amendment to the United States Constitution is ratified, officially ending the institution of slavery.

July 9, 1868

The 14^th Amendment to the Constitution gives Blacks equal protection under the law.

February 3, 1870

The 15^th Amendment gives Black men in America the right to vote.

1877

The Supreme Court rules that states cannot prohibit racial segregation on public modes of transportation such as trains, streetcars, and boats. This begins an era of Jim Crow laws that were used to maintain segregation through the 1960s.

1896

The US Supreme Court endorses the doctrine of “separate but equal” in Plessy v Ferguson.

February 12, 1909

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is established in New York in an effort to abolish all segregation and enforce the 14^th and 15^th Amendments, among other goals.

1920

The Harlem Renaissance starts a revival of music, art, dance, literature, theater, and other Black and African American cultures in New York City through the mid-1930s.

June 18, 1940

A federal court rules Black and White teachers must be paid equal salaries in Alston v School Board of City of Norfolk.

May 17, 1954

The Supreme Court overturns Plessy v Ferguson, ruling it as inherently unequal, in Brown v Board of Education.

December 1, 1955

Rosa Parks is arrested after refusing to give up her seat at the front of a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, defying segregation laws that state Black passengers must sit in the back.

November 14, 1956

The Supreme Court rules that segregated seating is unconstitutional.

September 4, 1957

Nine Black students integrate an all-White high school in Little Rock, Arkansas, and are barred from school on the first day by Governor Orval Faubus. Later that month, the Little Rock Nine would be escorted to school by federal troops at the request of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, drawing more attention to the Civil Rights Movement.

September 9, 1957

President Eisenhower signs the Civil Rights Act of 1957 into law, allowing anyone who tries to prevent someone from voting to be federally prosecuted.

February 1, 1960

Four Black students at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical College in Greensboro refuse to leave the lunch counter at Woolworth’s after being denied service, starting a sit-in movement throughout college towns in the South and forcing the general store and other businesses to change their policies.

November 14, 1960

At only six years old, Ruby Bridges becomes the first Black student to integrate into a White elementary school in the South.

1962

The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) admits Black student James Meredith after he wins a lawsuit stating he was discriminated against based on race, causing a mob scene during his first day on campus in which two people were killed and 200 more were wounded. The University of Alabama also desegregates after Governor George Wallace literally blocks a Black student from the admission office with state troopers. Wallace is later forced to integrate the University after President John F. Kennedy deploys National Guard troops to campus; two Black students enroll the next day.

August 28, 1963

The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom is held with approximately 250,000 activists gathering at the Lincoln Memorial in protest of unequal rights, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who gives his famous “I Have a Dream” speech to close out the event.

July 2, 1964

President Lyndon B. Johnson signs the Civil Rights Act of 1964, guaranteeing equal employment, ensuring public spaces are integrated, addressing the desegregation of schools, outlawing discrimination in federally funded programs, and prohibiting general discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or nation of origin.

1965

The Elementary and Secondary Education Act is created to offer federal aid toward equal opportunity efforts. Congress also passes the Voting Rights Act of 1965, further protecting Black voter rights by banning literacy tests and other discriminatory practices at state and local levels.

April 4, 1968

At 39 years old, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is assassinated on his hotel balcony in Memphis, Tennessee, inciting riots across the country.

June 28, 1969

The Stonewall Uprising began when New York City police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay club in Greenwich Village. The raid sparked a riot in the streets and served as a catalyst for the gay rights movement, a series of protests led by a Black transgender woman named Marsha P. Johnson and bolstered by many other Black and Brown activists of the time.

February 1976

President Gerald Ford officially recognizes the first Black History Month, which originated from “Negro History Week” created by civil rights leader Carter G. Woodson.

June 28, 1978

The Supreme Court rules that racial quotas in higher education are unconstitutional but maintains a college’s right to factor race into admission decisions in Regents of the University of California v Bakke.

November 1983

President Ronald Reagan signs a bill declaring Martin Luther King Jr. Day a national holiday, though it isn’t celebrated as a federal holiday until 1986 or officially adopted by all 50 states until the year 2000.

March 18, 1996

Affirmative action is ceased at public universities in Texas when the appeals court rules that the use of race in higher education admission decisions is prohibited in Hopwood v Texas, the first successful legal challenge to a university’s affirmative action policies.

2003

In Grutter v Bollinger, the Supreme Court declares that while race can still play a factor in admission decisions at the University of Michigan to promote diversity, point systems for minority applicants are deemed unconstitutional. In the same year, Harvard University conducts a Civil Rights project that finds schools were more segregated in 2000 than in 1970 when legitimate desegregation efforts began.

November 4, 2008

Barack Obama is elected as the 44^th president of the United States, becoming the first Black man to hold the office.

2012

#BlackLivesMatter is first used on social media after George Zimmerman is acquitted of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin’s murder. The movement grows across the country and around the world after 18-year-old Michael Brown is shot six times by a White police officer in 2014.

2016

The Supreme Court upholds affirmative action at the University of Texas at Austin in Fisher v UT Austin.

May 25, 2020

Following other high-profile cases—such as the March 13 murder of Breonna Taylor in her own home—the Black Lives Matter Movement explodes again when 46-year-old George Floyd dies after being pinned to the ground by policeman Derek Chauvin.

November 3, 2020

Kamala Harris becomes the first woman—and first woman of color—to serve as Vice President when Joe Biden is elected President.

June 17, 2021

President Biden signs a bill declaring Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

2022

The Supreme Court plans to review affirmative action in higher education in cases involving Harvard and the University of North Carolina.

June 29, 2023

The Supreme Court rules that race-conscious admission policies at Harvard and UNC are unconstitutional, effectively ending affirmative action in college admission across the country. This decision reshapes how colleges consider diversity in their application processes.

August 5, 2024

Vice President Harris makes history again by becoming the first Black woman to secure a major party's nomination for President of the United States. After President Biden decides not to seek re-election, Harris receives the Democratic Party's endorsement to lead the ticket in the 2024 presidential election.

November 5, 2024

For the first time in US history, two Black women are elected to the US Senate: Lisa Blunt Rochester from Delaware and Angela Alsobrooks from Maryland. Blunt Rochester becomes both the first woman and the first Black senator elected in Delaware, while Alsobrooks becomes Maryland's first Black senator.

February 9, 2025

At Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans, Grammy-winning artist Ledisi performs "Lift Every Voice and Sing," often referred to as the Black national anthem. This marks the fifth consecutive year the song is featured at the NFL championship, reflecting ongoing recognition of its cultural significance.

We hope you enjoyed reading about some of the most significant milestones in Black history. There is so much more to learn that we couldn’t cover here, and we hope you’ll continue to do so this month and beyond.

Remember, the most important source for learning is from Black voices, stories, and causes—and a great place to start is blackhistorymonth.gov. Help uplift the Black community in any way you can to work toward a more just and equitable future. Happy Black History Month!

Interested in learning about important people in the history of Black culture more in-depth? Check out our Heroes of History article on 5 Unsung Black Male Figures.

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