Hundreds of educators, students and school administrators to attend Educators Rising conference
NORMAL, IL – On March 6, more than 500 high school students, teachers and education professionals from across the state will gather in Bloomington for the fifth annual Educators Rising state conference. This program aims to strengthen the educator pipeline by inspiring students to enter the teaching profession and providing the resources they need to succeed.
“If we are going to address the teacher and educator shortage, we have to do more than just talk to our young people about teaching. Ed Rising gives students the resources they need to succeed. This is a fantastic way for students from across the state to make connections with fellow students, gain knowledge and skills and learn more about the teaching profession,” Educators Rising State Coordinator Lindsey Jensen said.
So far 400 students from more than 30 school districts are registered to attend. During the conference, students will connect with representatives from various Illinois colleges and universities and educational resource organizations. Students will attend breakout sessions. Topics include bilingual education, educator licensure, teaching using braille and sign language, and more. This year’s keynote speaker is Rachael Mahmood, Ph.D., 2024 Illinois Teacher of the Year and Illinois Education Association (IEA)member.
“Building a diverse teaching force begins by valuing our diverse student body. We must intentionally communicate to every aspiring teacher that their authentic identities enrich the field of education. By honoring their ‘why’—their motivation for choosing education—we foster connection, inspire growth and create a profession where every educator feels valued and supported, ensuring they not only join the profession, but also remain,” Mahmood said.
The conference is sponsored by the IEA, Illinois State Board of Education, Illinois State University College of Education, National Education Association, Aspiring Educators and the Illinois State Teachers of the Year.
“While there are many ways to address the educator shortage, supporting our future educators is critical,” said IEA President Al Llorens. “The success of Educators Rising over the years is a testament to the hard work of IEA members and their dedication to our public schools and communities in Illinois. Their expertise and encouragement is essential in developing the next generation of teachers.”
The Educators Rising conference will be held on Thurs., March 6 at the Bone Student Center (200 N. University St., Normal) on the Illinois State University campus. The day begins at 8 a.m. and concludes at 3:30 p.m.
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The 135,000 member Illinois Education Association (IEA-NEA) is the state’s largest union. IEA represents Pre K-12 teachers outside the city of Chicago and education support staff, higher education faculty, retired education employees and students preparing to become teachers, statewide.
