Elevating Future Educators: Behind the Scenes of Planning ECET2 Next Gen

For the first time, I had the incredible opportunity to co-plan a two-day, one-night conference designed specifically for preservice teachers. The event? ECET2 Next Gen is a powerful experience designed to uplift the next generation of educators. ECET2 stands for Elevating and Celebrating Effective Teaching and Teachers, and the “Next Gen” edition was all about honoring future educators, learning alongside them, and building a community of support. Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, this event was unlike anything I’ve ever helped organize. Let’s dive into how it all came together!

Planning ECET2 Next Gen: From Vision to Reality

While I’ve co-planned EdCamps and workshops before, this was my first time organizing a full-scale conference. Our planning team included three practicing educators and two preservice teachers. We selected a hotel venue with multiple conference rooms, a banquet hall, and plenty of space for networking and learning.

We chose a Friday evening to Saturday afternoon format:

• Friday: Celebration and connection

• Saturday: Learning and leadership

Once the logistics were in place, we began the nomination process. Since ECET2 is a funded initiative, we wanted to ensure we reached a wide audience of preservice teachers across Northwestern Pennsylvania. I contacted over 60 education department chairs and deans, and we received nominations from 18 colleges and universities. Each nominee received a personalized invitation to register. In total, over 90 preservice teachers attended ECET2 Next Gen. It was inspiring to hear their stories and discover what fuels their passion for teaching.

Celebrating Future Educators in Style

Friday night was all about celebrating our attendees. We kicked off with a connection activity where participants shared their passions, both personal and professional. This helped spark meaningful conversations and new friendships.

The evening continued with:

• A shared meal and a lively round of 90s-themed Kahoot trivia

• Casino-style “Minute to Win It” games

• Dancing, music, and a photo booth

The energy was electric, and the joy was contagious. We wanted every attendee to feel seen, valued, and celebrated—and we achieved this goal.

Saturday Sessions: Learning, Leading, and Growing

Saturday morning began with a keynote panel over breakfast, featuring:

• One preservice teacher

• Two veteran educators

The panelists shared their journeys, answered audience questions, and reminded us all that no matter how long you’ve been teaching, those “lightbulb moments” never get old.

Our breakout sessions were designed with preservice teachers in mind, covering topics like:

• STEM education

• Creating a culture for learning

• Educational technology for students with special needs

• Virtual reality in the classroom

We were honored to have sessions led by inspiring educators like Joe Harmon, Kristen Nan, and Jacie Maslyk, as well as powerful presentations by preservice teachers from Edinboro University.

Attendees left feeling energized, empowered, and equipped to take their next steps as future educators.

So, What’s Next?

Friends, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone. Try something new. Take a risk. You never know what incredible opportunities might come your way.

Ask yourself:

• How are you elevating and celebrating your teaching journey?

• How are you owning your professional development?

Let’s keep the momentum going. Please share your thoughts in the comments and tag a friend who needs a little EduMagic in their life.

Connect with Dr. Sam Fecich

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Remember, EDUmagicians...You have the EduMagic within you. Keep shining, keep growing, and keep making a difference.