East Stroudsburg University recently hosted its Aspiring Educator Pathway Program (AEPP) On-Campus Day, welcoming 120 aspiring educators from across the region. High school students from Commonwealth Charter Academy, Delaware Valley School District, East Stroudsburg School District, as well as those from Easton, Stroudsburg, and Northern Tioga participated in this semester’s event, themed “Lighting the Path: AEPP Guiding the Next Generation.”
Pennsylvania is facing a critical teacher shortage, with fewer new teachers entering the profession and schools increasingly relying on temporary solutions to fill classrooms. Over the past decade, the number of new teaching certifications issued in the state has plummeted by 71%. More recently, only 4,220 certifications were issued in the 2019-20 school year. At the same time, the use of emergency permits—short-term credentials allowing individuals without full certification to teach—has skyrocketed, increasing from 7,749 in 2014-15 to 22,827 in 2019-20.
The AEPP On-Campus Day was designed to inspire and prepare the next generation of educators through interactive workshops, team-building activities, and insightful discussions led by ESU students who are AEPP Ambassadors. The ambassadors represent various programs including Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Health and Physical Education, Middle-Level Education, and Secondary Education, and served as role models and mentors throughout the event. Carefully selected for their leadership skills and passion for teaching, the ambassadors played a central role in creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for future educators.
Participants were divided into two groups, “Lightbulbs” and “Flames,” and were guided by ambassadors to their first sessions. Table Discussions featured a series of dynamic, rotating stations where students explored topics such as Life as a College Student, Pathways in Education, Building Classroom Skills, Preparing for Your Teaching Career, and Self-Care and Personal Growth. These sessions provided invaluable insights into the teaching profession while fostering meaningful dialogue.
The energy peaked during the team-building activities at the Rec Center, where students engaged in fun and collaborative games. Students built connections with peers and educators from across the region with activities that emphasized teamwork, communication, and the joy of education, reinforcing the day’s theme of lighting the path toward a brighter future.
Throughout the day, participants also gained valuable insights from university faculty and administration about what it takes to succeed in the field of education. The event not only inspired students but also highlighted ESU’s dedication to fostering strong partnerships with local school districts.
“Opportunities like this allow students to connect with peers, educators, and mentors in a supportive environment,” said Jackie Kessel, Director of Field Experience at ESU. “It’s a crucial step in developing confident and prepared educators who will lead in classrooms and beyond.”
The AEPP On-Campus Day exemplified ESU’s commitment to addressing the educator shortage by guiding the next generation of teachers
For more information about the Aspiring Educator Pathway Program and other initiatives at East Stroudsburg University, please contact: Brooke Langan, dean of ESU’s College of Education by calling 570-422-3377 or email blangan1@esu.edu.