The University of Wisconsin-Stout School of Education announced on March 23 that it will hold two spring events aimed at preparing high school students for teaching careers and supporting the well-being of current educators. Teach Day is scheduled for April 21, while the Early Childhood Education Conference will take place on April 24 and 25.
The university said these initiatives are part of efforts to address teacher shortages in the state and to provide resources that help educators thrive in their profession. Both events focus on practical experiences, professional development, and strategies to foster emotional wellness among teachers and students.
Teach Day invites high school students to explore one of UW-Stout’s undergraduate education programs through hands-on activities led by faculty and university student volunteers. Activities include the Teach Back Challenge, Future Classroom Design, campus tours, and a panel with early childhood education majors. “There has never been a more crucial time to introduce high school students to the profession of education,” said School of Education Director Shannon Donnelly. “The more we can help to shape the narrative around the positives of being an educator, the more it helps to recruit people to the profession and also to keep them there.” Assistant Professor Jody Shong added that authentic experiences during Teach Day give participants insight into teaching’s impact: “By engaging in authentic, hands-on experiences and connecting with current education students and faculty, participants gain a better understanding of the impact and importance of the teaching profession. Events like this play an important role in strengthening the pipeline of future educators while also reinforcing the passion and commitment of those already preparing to enter the field.” Shong explained that activities allow students “to step into the role of a teacher while exploring how young children learn, communicate and develop.” She said sessions conclude with demonstrations showing how early relationships influence brain development during critical years.
The Early Childhood Education Conference will feature keynote speakers Dr. Julie Bates-Maves from UW-Stout discussing stress management for teachers, as well as Dr. Orinthia Harris (Dr. OH), who will present strategies for nurturing mental health using her J.O.Y framework—Judging Thoughts, Observing Feelings, Yielding to Positive Actions—with interactive exercises for attendees.
Student volunteer Alyssa Bratsch described her experience at last year’s conference as beneficial both professionally and personally: “During toddlerhood, a child’s brain is developing rapidly… By providing early intervention… I will help them build a foundation for success for the rest of their lives.” Bratsch plans on becoming a special education toddler teacher after graduating in fall 2027.
UW-Stout’s School of Education offers nine undergraduate programs along with graduate degrees, certificates, certifications—and reports full employment or continued study within six months after graduation according to its Career Services’ First Destination Report.
