Alma College on Jan. 26 hosted a special celebration honoring the next generation of teachers: the first annual Teacher Education Induction and Student Teaching Recognition. The event highlighted the achievements of students committed to the teaching profession, recognizing both their hard work and their dedication to making a difference in classrooms.

“Teaching isn’t just a career — it’s something that’s in you. These students have shown they are committed to this profession, and we wanted to honor that step in their journey,” said Peggy Yates, associate professor of education at Alma College.

The ceremony brought together 78 students — 42 in the Teacher Education Program (TEP) and 36 student teachers — along with Alma College faculty and administration. For these students, the event marked a pivotal moment: their formal induction into the teacher education program or recognition as student teachers preparing for upcoming classroom placements.

Students in the Teacher Education Program, primarily sophomores and juniors, must meet rigorous requirements to be inducted, including:

  • Maintaining a 3.0 GPA
  • Completing foundational courses in English, math, and general education
  • Passing a Student Life background check

Student teachers must also demonstrate progress in their major, submit lesson plans, a teaching philosophy, and a writing sample, and maintain a 2.75 GPA.

The event was designed to be meaningful and enjoyable. Invitations were cotton-candy themed, adding a playful touch, and attendees enjoyed sweet treats along with the ceremony. Each student received an official name badge, a symbol of their new status in the Alma College teaching community.

“For our students, this is more than a badge. It’s a rite of passage — a moment that says, ‘You belong here. You are part of this profession,’” said Becca Couch, instructor of education at Alma College.

Students posed for photos with friends and faculty — including Yates, Couch, Karen Carman, Kathy Paul, Brad Westgate, Amanda Willman and Mike Walker — creating lasting memories of their accomplishment. For those inducted into the Teacher Education Program, the next step includes advanced methods courses and preparation for student teaching in the coming year. Student teachers are now ready for full-time classroom placements, marking a vote of confidence as they step closer to becoming professional educators.

Alma College plans to continue this tradition annually, celebrating the teaching profession and the students who dedicate themselves to it. Future events may include alumni returning to share their classroom experiences, offering guidance and inspiration for the next generation.

“Our faculty brings over 270 years of combined teaching experience,” Yates said. “Students respond to the care, attention, and guidance we provide. Celebrating them in this way is something they will carry with them into their careers.”

The first annual Teacher Education Induction and Student Teaching Recognition was more than a ceremony — it was a testament to the care, passion, and community that Alma College cultivates in every future teacher. It celebrated a calling, a commitment, and a journey that is just beginning for these students.

“This is a celebration of a calling,” Yates said. “Our students have been told not to teach—but they did it anyway. That’s something worth celebrating.”

Are you ready to make an impact in education? Check out the education program at Alma College today.