Teach Forward Conference Inspires Future Educators

Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations

The University of Mount Olive welcomed middle and high school students from across 12 schools and 5 counties in eastern North Carolina for the inaugural Trojan Teach Forward Conference, an immersive, hands-on event designed to inspire and strengthen the future educator pipeline. Hosted by UMO’s School of Education, the conference brought together students, teachers, administrators, and education professionals for a day of exploration, honest conversation, and meaningful connection.

Dr. Felicia Brown, Superintendent of Human Resources with Duplin County Schools, underscored the deeper purpose of the teaching profession.

According to Amanda Bullard-Maxwell, Dean of the School of Education, the idea for Trojan Teach Forward grew out of her experiences attending the North Carolina Teacher Cadet Conference alongside Assistant Dean Kelly Alves. “Dr. Alves and I realized the power of early, intentional recruitment in building a teacher pipeline,” Bullard-Maxwell said. “In eastern North Carolina especially, many school districts face persistent teacher shortages. This conference reflects a proactive, grow-your-own approach that aligns with UMO’s mission and the future needs of our region.”

Throughout the day, students participated in hands-on workshops, interacted with UMO faculty and education majors, and heard directly from past and current practitioners about both the challenges and rewards of teaching. Rather than glossing over the realities of today’s classrooms, sessions emphasized authenticity and adaptability. “The challenges are not sugar-coated,” Bullard-Maxwell said. “But we emphasize that the rewards far outweigh them.”

Dr. Amanda Bullard-Maxwell (left) holds the mic for a Q & A session with teachers and participants at the inaugural Trojan Teach Forward Conference.

A central goal of the conference was to help students see themselves as future educators and understand the many pathways available within the profession. From elementary education to specialized licensure areas, participants were encouraged to explore options that matched their interests and strengths. Alves said she hoped students would leave campus with both clarity and confidence. “I want students to come away from this conference with enthusiasm about becoming a teacher and a clear picture of the welcoming atmosphere here at UMO,” Alves said.

That message resonated with student participants. Tabiola Aguilar said the experience helped broaden her perspective on teaching. “I’m still figuring out if teaching is exactly what I want to do, but I love being around kids and helping them learn,” Aguilar said. “Today helped me understand that teaching can fit alongside other interests, and I really like learning about the process and what it takes.”

Tabiola Aguilar (left) and Richard Prado (right), two of the conference attendees, spoke highly of the event and their interest in the teaching profession.

Richard Prado echoed that sentiment, noting that the conference opened new doors. “I’ve always been a little interested in teaching, but today I learned that it doesn’t have to be my only path,” Prado said. “I didn’t realize I could pursue teaching while also preparing for another career I’m interested in, and that really opened my eyes to new possibilities.”

Presenters and visiting educators also praised the conference’s structure and impact. Dr. Felicia Brown, Superintendent of Human Resources with Duplin County Schools, underscored the deeper purpose of the profession. “Teaching is both a professional and moral commitment to serve children,” Brown said. “It is one of the most meaningful jobs there is.”

Teachers who accompanied students to the event highlighted the value of autonomy and exposure. Ashley Andrews of Kinston High School, said, “I appreciate that students were able to choose breakout sessions that aligned with their interests, making the experience more personal and engaging. Danny Fourre of Kinston High School added, “As veteran educators leave the field, events like Trojan Teach Forward are essential in inviting the next generation to see the continued value and impact of teaching.”

UMO’s School of Education designed the Trojan Teach Forward Conference to reflect the strengths of its teacher education programs, including small class sizes, strong faculty-student relationships, and extensive field-based learning opportunities. “Faculty members bring real-world experience as former teachers, principals, and school district administrators, and coursework emphasizes preparation for diverse learners through instruction in differentiation, behavior intervention, and research-based literacy practices,” Bullard-Maxwell said.

Organizers hope Trojan Teach Forward will become an annual event and serve as a springboard for students considering a career in education. “If just one student leaves more confident about choosing teaching as a profession,” Bullard-Maxwell said, “then we have accomplished our goal.”