Celebrating 12 years of professional learning, connection and support, the Emerging Educators Academy returns on Jan. 8, with a full-day of engaging activities and focused conversations. Teachers who are in their first three years in the field, teacher mentors and preservice teachers are highly encouraged to attend this premier learning and networking event.
The 2027 Emerging Educators Academy takes on the theme, “Teaching is Better Together,” which highlights the importance of collaboration and Iowa’s strong teacher community. Attendees of the academy will have several opportunities to participate in breakout sessions to learn about best practices, make new connections and find inspiration and encouragement. Led by teachers for teachers, the Emerging Educators Academy will also feature several top educators, including current and former Iowa Teachers of the Year and Regional Teachers of the Year.
“The Emerging Educators Academy is going to be an incredible day of learning and celebration, connecting fresh faces in the field to some of our most accomplished and seasoned teachers,” said Stephanie Pritts, 2027 Iowa Teacher of the Year and Emerging Educators Academy co-chair. “The intent for the upcoming event is to ensure new teachers feel connected, well-equipped, empowered and inspired to lead classrooms and make an impact on student achievement and success. Together, we can make a difference.”
The 2026 National Teacher of the Year Leon Smith will join attendees at the Emerging Educators Academy as the keynote speaker, bringing more than two decades of experience as an educator, leader and mentor to the stage. He is currently an Advanced Placement (AP) United States history and AP African American studies teacher in Pennsylvania.
The 2027 Emerging Educators Academy will be held on Friday, Jan. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Drake University’s Olmstead Center in Des Moines, and registration is now open through Dec. 22. Registration fees are $35 for new teachers and teacher mentors and $25 for preservice teachers. Lunch will be provided for all attendees. All teachers are encouraged to register early to reserve their seat at the event.
The annual Emerging Educators Academy is sponsored through a partnership between the Iowa Department of Education, Iowa State Education Association and Drake University’s School of Education. Along with the current Iowa Teacher of the Year, past Iowa Teachers of the Year and other award-winning educators serve as hosts and coordinators for the event.
Additional information on the 2027 Emerging Educators Academy is available in the provided QR code. Specific questions can be directed to 2027 Iowa Teacher of the Year Stephanie Pritts at [email protected].