Educators can agree that this occupation is the work of the heart. It is equally rewarding and a heavy burden to carry. Those that have strong support tend to stay the longest. But what about those who are working to become educators? They do not have classroom neighbors yet. They do not have professional learning centers. But they still need support to not lose faith in the career they are going to invest themselves in. Therefore, the Oklahoma Aspiring Educators Association (OAEA) was created and why they have conferences to create support groups for our next generation of educators.
Members of OAEA met at UCO on October 29 to hear from guest speakers, collaborate, and network. Attendees were given the option of different presentations: OEA’s Beyond Trauma informed presented by Trena Rogers and Francisca Martinez-Jensen, True Colors by Organizing Specialist Kim Littrell, or Community Schools by Executive Director Carolyn Crowder.
The keynote speaker was Craig McVay, former El Reno Public Schools Superintendent, who spoke on the impact that educators can have on their students. He also shared encouraging stories about his experiences as a teacher, coach and administrator. Representative John Waldron also spoke to attendees at lunch on the importance of voting and being politically informed and active.
Early Career Organizer Joshua Frazier shared his thoughts on the OAEA conferences. “In addition to the professional development component, it’s important to have a space to meet and network with other aspiring educators. It’s my personal belief that there is value in seeing other people from schools and communities that are different from your own and being able to share experiences,” said Joshua.
OEA hopes to continue to provide a supportive and collaborative space for the next generation of educators. OAEA members will have an opportunity to meet again in the spring and participate in the Outreach to Teach community service project.
