Discover the Power of Community, Leadership, and Support for Aspiring Educators Featuring Dr. Christopher Clayton

If you're a future teacher in Pennsylvania, you’ve likely imagined your classroom. Picture your name on the door, books lining the shelves, and students who will one day call you “my favorite teacher.” Just know this: you don’t have to walk that journey alone. There’s an entire community of over 7,300 aspiring educators in Student PSEA ready to support you every step of the way.

As the Director of Student PSEA, I’ve had the honor of working with thousands of pre-professional educators across the Commonwealth. I’ve witnessed firsthand how this organization not only prepares future teachers but also propels, empowers, engages, informs, and supports them. Whether you're just starting your first education class or preparing for student teaching, joining your local Student PSEA chapter could be the most valuable decision you make on your journey to becoming an exceptional educator. Let me show you why.

1. Community: You Are Not Alone

College can feel overwhelming. You juggle lesson plans, practicum hours, and licensure requirements. Student PSEA connects you with a network of over 7,000 peers who are walking the same path. From regional conferences to local chapter events, you’ll find your tribe. These are individuals who share your passion and understand your challenges.

Need advice on how to prep for your Praxis exams? Want tips for your first field placement? Your Student PSEA chapter serves as your built-in support group, offering guidance and encouragement along the way.

2. Professional Development That Prepares You for the Classroom

Future employers want more than just a strong GPA. They want to see evidence that you are ready for the real-world classroom. That’s where Student PSEA shines.

We provide robust, hands-on professional learning opportunities, including:

• Leadership development

• Classroom management strategies

• Trauma-informed teaching practices

• AI integration in education (a field I’ve proudly helped explore as Staff Lead Consultant for PSEA’s AI Task Force)

  
  

Every workshop, conference, webinar, and PEARL course you attend bolsters both your educator toolkit and your résumé.

3. Service: Make a Difference Before You're Certified

You don’t have to wait until you’re certified to start making an impact. Student PSEA leads statewide and local service projects that truly matter. These initiatives range from book drives to community clean-ups and our flagship Outreach to Teach program. In this program, we transform schools and classrooms in need. When you join Student PSEA, you don’t just talk about changing the world—you actively get involved.

Impactful Contributions

Each of these projects provides hands-on experience and allows you to directly contribute to your community before you even step into a certified teaching role. It’s incredibly fulfilling to know you can make a difference early in your career.

4. Leadership Opportunities That Launch Careers

Whether you want to lead your campus chapter, run for a regional or state officer position, or chair a committee, Student PSEA offers a variety of leadership opportunities. Our members don't just evolve into teachers; they grow into leaders.

Grounded in Servant Leadership, Student PSEA teaches you how to lead through service—an essential skill for any educator. These experiences don’t just improve your candidacy; they enhance your teaching abilities. Many leaders from our organization go on to become principals, district leaders, and policy advocates.

5. A Powerful Voice in Education Policy

As a Student PSEA member, you become part of something bigger—an advocacy network of 177,000 educators promoting strong public schools. You also join the National Education Association (NEA), the largest union in the country, with over 3 million members.

You’ll gain access to:

• Legislative updates

• Advocacy training

• Opportunities to speak out on vital issues like school funding, student mental health, and educator diversity

  
  

You're not just preparing for a career; you're stepping into a profession that needs your voice and vision.

6. Real-World Resources and Financial Support

Students often face financial challenges while pursuing their education. Need liability insurance for student teaching? Looking for scholarships or grants? From certification guidance to résumé tips to our statewide job fair, Student PSEA equips you with essential resources exactly when you need them.

Financial Guidance

Understanding the financial landscape of education can be daunting. However, with our resources at your fingertips, you can navigate it successfully. This is crucial for your journey to becoming a successful educator.

7. National Recognition and Lasting Impact as a Future Teacher in Pennsylvania

Student PSEA has been recognized as the “Most Outstanding Aspiring Educator Program” in the nation by the NEA. Our members have earned awards for service, leadership, and innovation, making a significant impact in Pennsylvania schools and communities.

A Legacy of Excellence

Being part of this esteemed program not only boosts your résumé but also places you among a legacy of excellence. You’ll be part of a movement dedicated to improving education for all students.

The Future of Education Needs You

If we've learned anything in recent years, it's that the world requires passionate, resilient, and equity-driven educators more than ever. As you prepare to become one of them, know that you don't have to go it alone.

Join Student PSEA. Surround yourself with mentors, leaders, and changemakers who will support, challenge, and inspire you. Your journey to the classroom starts now. Let’s walk it together.

Learn more or connect with your local chapter: https://www.psea.org/for-members/professional-practice/educators-rising/

Dr. Christopher M. Clayton Sr., NBCT, Ph.D.