Hundreds of aspiring educators gathered for the Future Teacher Conference at the University of Northern Colorado on February 6, 2026. This event, now in its 11th year, attracted approximately 600 attendees, including high school students and current educators eager to inspire the next generation of teachers.
The conference commenced with a keynote address from Steve Spangler, a teacher, author, and Emmy Award winner known for his engaging approach to science education. Spangler’s presence energized the audience as he shared personal stories and demonstrated the profound impact teachers can have on their students’ lives. “Experiences are transformational,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of creating memorable learning moments in the classroom.
Inspiring Future Educators
Among the attendees was Maddie Mitchell, a high school senior from Thornton, who expressed her long-held ambition of becoming a teacher. “Nothing else has called to me … the way teaching has,” she shared, reflecting the sentiments of many participants. The enthusiasm in the hall was palpable, as educators like Ellen Clark, a fourth-grade teacher from Cherry Creek Schools, described the conference atmosphere as “contagious,” revitalizing her passion for teaching.
Mitchell, alongside fellow students, participated in various activities designed to connect them with current teachers and education experts. This interaction allowed aspiring educators to explore different teaching careers and education programs available at UNC, which has a rich history in teacher education dating back to its establishment as a teacher’s college in 1889.
Currently, the need for qualified teachers is significant. According to the Colorado Department of Education, the number of teacher vacancies rose to nearly 7,800 positions for the 2024-25 school year, up from around 6,900 in 2023-24. This increasing demand underscores the importance of initiatives like the Future Teacher Conference in encouraging new talent to enter the field.
Building Connections and Careers
Students also had the opportunity to engage with UNC faculty, current educators, and educational experts throughout the day. Payton Johnson, a junior interested in musical education, expressed appreciation for Spangler’s insights, noting how they highlighted the significance of creativity in teaching.
Other attendees, such as Seren Harrington, a junior from Platte Valley High School, attended to gain a deeper understanding of potential career paths in education. “You can change kids’ lives,” Harrington remarked, reflecting on the transformative power of educators.
The Future Teacher Conference not only fosters a supportive environment for aspiring teachers but also serves as a platform for collaboration and networking among future educators. As the event concluded, participants left with renewed hope and motivation, equipped to take their next steps toward a fulfilling career in education. The conference affirmed that there remains a dedicated community passionate about teaching and shaping the future.
