Future teachers travel to Louisville for Educators Rising conference

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Aspiring educators from across Kentucky gathered in Louisville this week for the Educators Rising conference, an event aimed at preparing middle and high school students for careers in teaching.

Thousands of middle and high school students traveled to the Kentucky Expo Center for the conference. Educators Rising provides students with networking opportunities, competitions, and professional development to help them gain experience before enrolling in college.

"It’s like professional development but for younger kids like me," said Anna Gosser, a student at Russell County High School. "It's been great to get information and experience under my belt so that when I become a teacher, I already have some knowledge I can use in my classroom."

Gov. Andy Beshear attended the event, using the opportunity to reiterate his commitment to public education. He emphasized the need for higher teacher salaries and universal pre-K, while also criticizing recent federal actions he said could negatively impact school funding.

"The federal government is taking steps that can and will harm public education, and they ought to knock it off," Beshear said. "We ought to have a federal government that is supporting us."

Despite the political discussions surrounding public education, students at the conference remained focused on their future careers.

"I’m very proud to say I’m a rising educator," said Emmy Pratt, a Russell County High School student. "It is such an impactful place, and we can truly make a difference."

The Educators Rising conference continues to serve as a launchpad for Kentucky’s next generation of teachers, providing them with resources and support as they prepare to enter the classroom.

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