States are using different approaches to tackle the teacher shortage. Some are offering alternative certification pathways, increasing teacher pay, or providing incentives like student loan forgiveness. Many are expanding “grow-your-own” programs to recruit educators from local communities. Streamlined licensure…
Posts By Melanie Olmstead
Alabama has officially approved a new alternative pathway to teacher certification, allowing professionals with a bachelor’s degree to become certified teachers without returning to a traditional university program. As of March 13, 2025, American Board is now authorized to certify teachers in…
Spring break isn’t just a time for students and teachers to relax—it’s also a golden opportunity to reset your classroom and bring fresh energy into the rest of the school year. Whether your break is a week or longer,…
If you’re a recently laid-off federal worker, you've found yourself in limbo. You've likely got many balls in the air and you're suddenly struggling to juggle them. Below, we're sharing next steps and resources for federal workers to help…
Strong leadership is essential in every classroom. When teachers lead with clarity and purpose, they influence not only academic outcomes but the confidence, curiosity, and character students carry forward. Across the country, schools continue to need educators who are…
In March 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order directing the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to begin a process aimed at reducing or transferring many of its functions. The order states that authority over education should…
Incorporating Black History Month in your classroom effectively means going beyond surface-level celebrations and weaving Black history, culture, and contributions into daily learning. Below we provide some impactful ways (and resources) you can do this. Incorporating Black History Month…
It's time to recognize the vital role of school counselors during National School Counseling Week 2025 (NSCW). This year, the event runs from February 3-7, 2025, with the theme "School Counseling: Helping Students Thrive." Hosted by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), the weeklong celebration…
Teaching is more than a job; it’s a calling that touches lives and shapes the future. It’s a job with real meaning because it changes lives, one student at a time. Perhaps best of all, teaching is a profession…
Martin Luther King Jr. Day is not only a time for reflection—it is also a call to action. Across the country, individuals, schools, and organizations observe the holiday through days of service that strengthen communities and uplift others. Below, you'll find…