More than 240 current and future educators — including over 180 high school students from across Pennsylvania — gathered in State College this spring for the second annual PA Educators Rising State Conference. Held March 28–29 at The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center, the event was designed to support, inspire, and guide high school students who are exploring a future in teaching.
Educators Rising is a national program that helps cultivate high school students’ interest in education as a career path. The Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA) hosts the state-level conference, which includes keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and opportunities for high school students to connect with college students, education professionals, and each other.
Amanda Smith, Director of K-12 Engagement at the Readiness Institute, helped plan the event at Penn State alongside Carla Zembal-Saul, Kahn Professor of STEM Education in the Penn State College of Education. They also co-advise the student chapter of PSEA. Their goal with this event was to make Penn State a hub for teacher pipeline development by providing a welcoming space for high school students to explore the field of education and connect with mentors and role models.
“It was an incredible opportunity to show students what’s possible,” said Smith. “There’s real power in bringing together practicing educators, teacher leaders, and future teachers, especially in a space like Penn State where so many paths into education begin.”
The conference kicked off with a keynote address from 2025 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Leon Smith, titled “The Power and Impact of a Teacher.” Smith was joined by four other past Teachers of the Year, each offering guidance and encouragement to students considering a career in education. Attendees also heard from PSEA State President Aaron Chapin, Vice President Jeff Ney, and Penn State College of Education Associate Dean Dr. Rayne Sperling, who welcomed students to campus and emphasized the importance of the teaching profession.
Over the course of the event, students got a glimpse into what life as a college student and future teacher could look like, all while building a sense of belonging and excitement. They had the opportunity to attend professional development breakout sessions led by faculty, practitioners, and students, participated in education-focused competitions, and networked with peers.
One of the breakout sessions — that Smith helped to coordinate — was a panel where current Penn State College of Education students shared how their time at the University has shaped their path toward becoming teachers. Other breakouts explored topics like becoming a first-generation college student, preparing for their first year as an education major, and the impact teachers make in their communities.
With high energy, inspiration, and real-world guidance, the PA Educators Rising State Conference at Penn State proved to be more than just a gathering; it was a launching point for future educators across Pennsylvania.