Group of students seated at Future Teacher Day

College of Education and Human Sciences hosts Future Teacher Day 2025

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Media Contact: Kirsi McDowell | Communications Coordinator | 405-744-8320 | kirsi@okstate.edu

Student reading book to group as part of lesson plan presentation at Future Teacher Day High school students intending to teach gathered in the Wes Watkins Center for International Trade Development on April 2 for a keynote address, tour, and breakout sessions to showcase how Oklahoma State University prepares highly qualified educators.

Future Teacher Day provides an opportunity for future Cowboys to connect with current students, faculty, and staff to learn about the OSU experience and the exceptional educator preparation programs and see the state-of-the-art training facilities and resources available to them as students in the College of Education and Human Sciences.

Bill Cordes, a nationally recognized leadership and team-building expert, delivered the keynote speech, challenging the students to embrace responsibility and personal growth.

Each student participated in breakout sessions with topics ranging from broader college expectations, financial aid and scholarships, to more major-specific discussions on becoming an effective writing teacher, fostering community in early childhood education, teaching family and consumer sciences and more.

Dillon Graham, P12 partnerships coordinator for the Office of Educator Support, said that empowering future teachers with knowledge about financial resources early is important to OSU’s mission to build a strong pipeline of passionate, well-prepared educators who will go on to have lasting impact in their communities.

“Scholarships played a crucial role in my own journey to earn a teaching degree here at OSU, so it's always a joy to be able to connect aspiring educators with great programs like Oklahoma's Inspired to Teach scholarship,” Graham said.

Events like Future Teacher Day highlight OSU’s highly regarded education programs and allow incoming students to engage with like-minded peers and faculty members who teach future educators before their admission so that they feel like part of the education community upon their arrival at OSU.

Teacher Education Programs:

Patrick Smith, manager of Prospective Student Services for the Watson Center for Student & Career Development, imparted on the students that choosing to become an educator is more than just selecting a career path — it is embracing a calling to inspire, lead and make a lasting impact on the lives of students.

“Our future teachers will be the ones who spark curiosity, foster growth and create classrooms filled with opportunity and hope,” Smith said.

“The passion for education often begins with an inspiring educator, and we are confident that these students will continue that legacy.”

Dr. Chloe Morris, teaching instructor of early childhood education in the Department of Human Development and Family Science, emphasized the importance of relationship building as part of the education profession.

“I tell future early childhood educators they are making the best job choice. They will change lives for the better every day, all while having fun — not many jobs allow for both to be true.”

Teaching is a rewarding yet challenging career. Having a strong support system of professors, fellow students and experienced teachers provides encouragement and practical strategies.

Students were given a glimpse of the power and joy of teaching by Dr. Jolie Hicks, teaching assistant professor of secondary education, through real-world stories and examples of what makes teaching an adventure. Through her presentation, she helped students see how they can bring their unique skills and passions into the classroom. She noted that teaching isn’t just about lesson plans but also creativity, fostering relationships, and shaping the future.

“The best advice I can give is this,” Hicks said. “Be the teacher you needed when you were in school.”

“Every student deserves a teacher who believes in them, challenges them, and supports them. Teaching is a journey of lifelong learning, and the best educators are the ones who never stop growing alongside their students.”

For more details about admissions, available college funding, involvement opportunities and more, visit the School of Teaching, Learning and Educational Sciences website.