Celebration of Teaching Award Recipients

Imagine transforming your university into a vibrant showcase of educational excellence! That’s exactly what the Tau Phi Chapter at Lindenwood University achieved with their Celebration of Teaching events.

This wasn’t just a one-off occasion, but a series of three dynamic events spanning the 2023-2024 academic year:

1. A December extravaganza kicking off the celebration
2. A day dedicated to supercharging university faculty’s teaching skills
3. A grand finale in May where student teachers took center stage

Picture this: Future educators proudly presenting their innovative projects, seasoned faculty members sharing wisdom, and university bigwigs (we’re talking President and Provost level!) showing up to support the next generation of teachers.

But the real magic? These events weren’t just about Lindenwood. Representatives from 20 area school districts joined the party, turning these celebrations into networking goldmines for aspiring teachers. Talk about getting your foot in the door before you even graduate!

And let’s not forget the high school students who got a VIP pass to see what a career in education really looks like. Inspiring the next generation of teachers? Check!

The KDP members didn’t just organize events; they became an integral part of the university’s professional development scene. Decked out in chapter tees, they facilitated sessions and even formed a student panel to give faculty the inside scoop on effective university teaching.

Funded by some impressive grants and supported by various university departments, this project showed that celebrating education can be both meaningful and incredibly exciting.

So, future teachers, take note! This is how you make waves in the education world and build a community that celebrates the art of teaching. Who says changing the future can’t be a party?

UNC Charlotte’s Cato College of Education brought excitement and inspiration to hundreds of high school students during American Education Week with their Future 49er TEACH Day. Co-sponsored by the Omicron Pi Chapter of KDP and the Office of Teacher Recruitment, this celebration of teaching drew over 325 students from eighteen schools across the region.

The day-long event transformed UNC Charlotte’s Cone Center into a hub of educational enthusiasm. Attendees were treated to an array of activities designed to spark interest in the teaching profession, including interactive breakout sessions, a student panel, and campus tours. A highlight was the keynote address delivered by a KDP member and UNC Charlotte alumna, who shared personal insights into the rewards of a career in education.

KDP members played a crucial role, leading tours, participating in panel discussions, and networking with prospective students over lunch. Their involvement provided high schoolers with authentic perspectives on university life and the journey to becoming an educator.

The event’s success was evident in its impact: more than half of the attending students had either already applied to UNC Charlotte or did so after the event. Participant feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the variety of sessions and the valuable information provided.

As UNC Charlotte looks to the future, plans are already underway to make next year’s event even more dynamic, with potential additions like residence hall tours and visits to athletic venues. Through initiatives like the Future 49er TEACH Day, UNC Charlotte is not just recruiting future teachers—it's inspiring the next generation of educational leaders.

Lights, camera, action! The Zeta Delta Chapter at Sul Ross State University has taken teacher appreciation to a whole new level with their innovative TEACHER project. This creative initiative doesn't just honor educators—it brings their essence to the big screen! 

The chapter crafted a brilliant video titled TEACHER, using each letter to spotlight a unique skill educators possess. For instance, "T" stands for the Tenderness that teachers bring to their classrooms every day. Talk about spelling out appreciation!

The Zeta Delta members didn’t stop at writing. They hit the road, filming teachers from seven different schools to bring their vision to life. This hands-on approach turned local educators into stars and strengthened community bonds.

The chapter went all out to share their message:

• They took to the airwaves, promoting the video on local talk radio.
• The video found fame on Sul Ross State University’s social media channels.
• In true Hollywood fashion, they hosted a "world premiere" screening that drew over 60 attendees, including teachers, administrators, and students!

With just $400 and 25 volunteer hours, the Zeta Delta Chapter proved that a little creativity and a lot of heart can create a lasting tribute to the incredible work of educators. Now that’s a lesson in innovation!

Watch TEACHER NOW

New Teacher Shower: Celebrating Educators Full Circle

Southeast Missouri State University's Alpha Eta Chapter is shaking up the education world with their innovative “New Teacher Shower” project! This isn’t your average school supply drive—it’s a full-blown celebration of new educators that’s making waves across the Southeast Missouri region.

What's the buzz about?

Imagine starting your teaching career with a truckload of free classroom goodies, a party in the park, and the entire community cheering you on. That’s exactly what SEMO’s Alpha Eta Chapter is making happen! They're collecting gently used teaching materials from veteran educators and local businesses, then “showering” new teachers with these resources at an epic event.

Why it’s awesome:

• Money-saving magic: New teachers often spend hundreds of their own dollars setting up classrooms. This project helps them save that cash for, you know, actually enjoying life outside of school!
• Upcycling genius: Instead of perfectly good supplies ending up in landfills, they’re getting a second life in new classrooms. Mother Earth approves!
• Community love: Local businesses are jumping on board, donating everything from office supplies to gift cards. It’s like the whole town is giving new teachers a big, supportive hug!

The main event:

Picture this: A sunny day in the park, balloons bobbing in the breeze, music pumping, and tables piled high with classroom treasures. New teachers get to “shop” for free, filling their arms with books, decorations, and teaching tools. There are games, a live radio broadcast, and did we mention free food? It’s part resource fair, part celebration, and 100% awesome.

The impact:

• New teachers feel supported and valued from day one.
• Veteran teachers get to pass on their wisdom (and declutter their closets).
• The whole community comes together to invest in education.
• KDP at SEMO is becoming the organization for future teachers to join.

Imagine a day where passion for education fills the air, where seasoned teachers share their wisdom, and aspiring educators get a glimpse into their future. That’s exactly what happens at Keene State College’s annual Inspiring Conversations in Education (ICE) Conference!

Now in its 12th year, this collaborative event is a testament to the power of community and lifelong learning in education. Hosted by the Epsilon Pi Chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, the ICE Conference brings together current students, alumni, and local educators for a day of inspiration, growth, and connection.

Picture this: You walk into Rhodes Hall on a Saturday morning, greeted by the buzz of excitement and the aroma of coffee. The day kicks off with an inspiring keynote from a successful alum, followed by a smorgasbord of workshops covering everything from landing your dream teaching job to using artificial intelligence in the classroom.

But it’s not just about sitting and listening. The ICE Conference is all about active engagement. You’ll find yourself discussing cognitively demanding tasks in math, exploring ways to support struggling learners, and even learning about the importance of self-care for teachers (because let’s face it, you can’t pour from an empty cup!).

What makes this conference truly special is its focus on building a supportive network. Current students get to rub elbows with experienced educators, alumni return to share their hard-earned wisdom, and everyone leaves feeling more connected to the field of education.

The cherry on top? This incredible professional development opportunity is entirely free and open to the public. It’s a perfect example of Keene State’s motto “Enter to Learn, Go Forth to Serve” in action.

ICE Conference Schedule

ICE Conference Program

Get ready to be inspired by the Alpha Epsilon Sigma Chapter at Western Governors University. These passionate educators-in-training have dreamed up a game-changing project that’s set to revolutionize the way we think about teacher well-being and student success!

Picture this: A vibrant, interactive Social-Emotional Journal busting with carefully curated books, movies, podcasts, and mood-boosting affirmations. But this isn’t your average journal—it’s a powerhouse of positivity designed to supercharge teachers’ emotional intelligence and classroom mojo!

At the heart of this project lies a profound truth, beautifully captured in the journal: “The trick to having happy students is to first be happy yourself.” By equipping teachers with top-notch social-emotional tools, the Alpha Epsilon Sigma crew is paving the way for more empathetic, resilient, and downright joyful classrooms.

Here’s the kicker: This wasn’t just a small side project. We’re talking 83 KDP members pouring their hearts (and 60 volunteer hours!) into crafting this emotional wellness treasure trove. Talk about teamwork making the dream work!

From book recommendations that’ll make you laugh, cry, and grow, to movie suggestions that’ll inspire your socks off, this journal has it all. And let’s not forget the hand-picked podcasts that’ll turn your daily commute into a professional development powerhouse!

The Alpha Epsilon Sigma Chapter has set the bar sky-high for KDP chapters everywhere, proving that with a little creativity and a lot of passion, we can transform the teaching profession one happy classroom at a time.

So, fellow education champions, are you ready to join the social-emotional learning revolution? Let’s take a page from Alpha Epsilon Sigma’s book and start spreading the joy of teaching, one smile at a time! After all, happy teachers make for happy students – and that's a lesson worth learning!

View Their Journal

The Alpha Theta Zeta Chapter at Middlesex College is revolutionizing the way we celebrate teaching and support future educators! In response to declining enrollment in education programs, these passionate KDP members launched a multi-faceted initiative that’s breaking barriers and igniting enthusiasm for the teaching profession.

1. Free On-Campus TB Testing: Teaming up with the Middlesex County Tuberculosis Control Program, they provided no-cost TB screenings right on campus. This simple yet crucial service removed a significant hurdle for students pursuing fieldwork and substitute teaching opportunities.
2. Strategies for Success Saturday: KDP members and alumni stepped into leadership roles, delivering power-packed presentations on essential topics like the Praxis Core, substitute teaching, and navigating the transfer process to four-year programs. High school and college students alike got the inside scoop on navigating their teaching journey.
3. Community Outreach: The chapter spread the love for teaching at events like HarvestFest and Open House, sharing success stories and inspiring the next generation of educators.
4. Personalized Guidance: Members provided one-on-one academic advising to incoming students, ensuring their course selections aligned with long-term certification goals.

The impact? A whopping 400+ volunteer hours, countless barriers broken down, and a renewed excitement for the “noblest profession.” Students left feeling empowered, with 100% of TB clinic participants agreeing that it made their pathway into the classroom easier.

This Middlesex College KDP chapter isn’t just celebrating teaching—they’re actively shaping its future. Now that’s a lesson in leadership we can all learn from!

The Alpha Epsilon Omega Chapter at St. Joseph’s University, Brooklyn, brought heartfelt appreciation to life with their “Letters to Our Teachers” project. This touching initiative allowed students to express gratitude to the educators who’ve shaped their minds, hearts, and futures.

Picture this: A room buzzing with excitement as 30 students gathered for a “Cookies and Card Making” event. Amidst the sweet aroma of cookies, pens flew across paper as students poured out their appreciation for their favorite professors. The air was filled with laughter and nostalgia as they shared cherished memories and life-changing lessons.

But the magic didn’t stop there! The KDP E-board took it a step further, hand-delivering these heartfelt messages along with beautiful bouquets to each Child Study professor during Teacher Appreciation Week. The result? Teary-eyed professors with ear-to-ear smiles, a testament to the power of a simple “thank you.”

This project wasn’t just about writing cards—it was about recognizing the unsung heroes of education. With just $50 and eight hours of dedicated time, the St. Joseph’s KDP chapter reminded us all of the immeasurable impact teachers have on our lives.

Want to make a difference in your school? Take a page from St. Joseph’s book and show your professors some love. After all, a little appreciation goes a long way in brightening someone’s day and inspiring the next generation of educators!

The Pi Chapter at Eastern Michigan University is taking alumni engagement to new heights with their “Celebrating & Engaging Alumni in Conference Planning & Recruitment” project! This dynamic initiative is all about bridging the gap between past and present, creating a vibrant community of educators that spans generations.

Picture this: A bustling Student Center Ballroom filled with over 200 enthusiastic education students, learning from and networking with more than 20 accomplished Pi Chapter alumni. These events aren’t just your average conferences—they’re electrifying celebrations of teaching that bring together diverse voices from across three decades of educational excellence!

The Pi Chapter team, led by President Catharine Dittrick and their dedicated counselors, has crafted a multi-faceted approach to alumni engagement. From alumni-led sessions and poster presentations to keynote speeches at initiation ceremonies, these events offer invaluable opportunities for current students to connect with experienced educators.

But wait, there’s more! The chapter’s 100th Year Conference was a true showstopper, featuring alumni from various specialties, including early childhood, elementary, secondary, and special education. Imagine the buzz of conversation as current students sat alongside alumni, sharing experiences and insights across generations!

The best part? Thanks to a generous grant from the EMU College of Education Dean, these enriching experiences were offered at no cost to students. Talk about investing in the future of education!

By focusing on celebration, joy, and professional growth, the Pi Chapter is creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond campus borders. They’re not just planning events; they’re cultivating a supportive, inspiring community that will shape the future of education for years to come.

So, to all KDP chapters out there: Take a page from EMU’s book and start bridging those generational gaps! Your alumni are an incredible resource just waiting to be tapped. Who knows? Your next event could be the spark that ignites a lifelong passion for teaching in a future educator!

The Sigma Omicron Chapter at the University of Indianapolis brought Teacher Appreciation Week to life with a two-pronged celebration that spread joy both on and off campus. These future educators didn’t just limit their appreciation to their immediate circle—they went above and beyond to recognize teachers at all stages of their careers!

On campus, the chapter transformed their education department into a snack oasis. They set up a tempting array of treats in the department’s nook area, complete with a creative poster explaining the thoughtful reasoning behind each snack choice. This delicious gesture of gratitude was a hit with both professors and fellow education students alike.

But the UIndy KDP chapter didn’t stop there. In a heartwarming display of alumni outreach, they designed custom teacher appreciation cards and bookmarks. Six dedicated members came together for a card assembly party, preparing these tokens of appreciation to be mailed out to KDP alumni who are now working in the field.

This project wasn’t just about saying “thanks”—it was about fostering a sense of community within their education department and strengthening ties with alumni. With just $200 and some seriously creative planning, the UIndy KDP chapter managed to touch the lives of educators past, present, and future.

Want to make a big impact on a small budget? Take a page from UIndy’s book and remember: sometimes, it’s the simplest gestures that mean the most to hardworking teachers!

Get ready to be inspired by the amazing work of the Chi Upsilon Chapter at Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK)! These future educators are taking appreciation to the next level with their Celebration of Teaching program.

Since Fall 2019, this powerhouse chapter has been honoring the unsung heroes of education - cooperating teachers who mentor TAMUK’s graduating members. But they don’t just stop at a simple “thank you.” Oh no, they go big!

Picture this: Amazon Wish Lists, personalized appreciation certificates, and a heartwarming ceremony that brings together families, friends, and educators. It’s like Christmas morning for teachers, but even better!

What makes this program truly special? It’s not just about the gifts (although who doesn’t love a good Amazon haul?). The Chi Upsilon Chapter is on a mission to:

1. Shine a spotlight on diverse educators making a difference in their communities
2. Support teachers of color, who are vital role models in the classroom
3. Elevate the teaching profession by celebrating rockstar educators

The impact? It’s off the charts! They’ve honored 14 outstanding educators so far, with 11 of them being Hispanic/Latino. Talk about representation! And get this - two of their honored teachers went on to become Teacher of the Year at their schools. Coincidence? We think not!

But the real magic happens when you see the ripple effect. This celebration isn’t just inspiring current teachers; it’s lighting a fire in the next generation of educators. Students are lining up to join KDP and be part of this awesome tradition.

So, to all you KDP chapters out there, take notes! The Chi Upsilon Chapter is showing us how a little creativity, a lot of heart, and some well-chosen Amazon gifts can make a world of difference in celebrating and uplifting the teaching profession.

The Alpha Epsilon Psi Chapter at Meredith College is making waves with their heartwarming “Cards to Beginning Teachers” project! In a world where new teachers often face overwhelming challenges, these dedicated KDP members are spreading joy and support one card at a time.

Picture this: 14 enthusiastic students and faculty members, armed with pens and fueled by Munchkin donuts, crafting personalized messages of encouragement for 28 beginning teachers across multiple counties. It’s not just about the cards—it’s about building a bridge between current education students and recent graduates who are now in the trenches of their first teaching jobs.

Why is this so cool? Because the Alpha Epsilon Psi Chapter recognizes that the teaching profession needs all the support it can get. By reaching out to elementary, middle, and high school teachers who are fresh out of their program, they’re creating a powerful network of encouragement that spans from campus to classroom.

The best part? This project doesn’t require a huge budget or elaborate planning. With just $12 for donuts and a heartfelt donation of cards, these KDP members are making a real difference. It’s a perfect example of how a small gesture can have a big impact.

Want to feel inspired? Imagine being a new teacher, facing the daily challenges of the job, and suddenly receiving a surprise card from your alma mater. That’s the kind of positivity the Alpha Epsilon Psi Chapter is spreading, reminding beginning teachers that they’re doing important work and that their college community has their back.

This project is more than just writing cards—it’s about building connections, boosting morale, and strengthening the teaching community. It’s a brilliant way to show that the support of a teacher education program doesn’t end at graduation. So, who’s ready to grab a pen and spread some teacher love?

Donuts and Gratitude: Lambda Eta Chapter Sweetens Teachers’ Day

The Lambda Eta Chapter at Pennsylvania Western University Clarion Campus brought a dose of sweetness to local educators during a challenging time. In a heartwarming gesture dubbed “Donut know what we would do without you!,” chapter members set out to brighten the days of elementary school teachers facing the pressures of state testing season.

Five dedicated KDP members rallied together, armed with four dozen Dunkin’ Donuts and a whole lot of appreciation. They split into teams and personally delivered these treats to teachers at Clarion Limestone Elementary and Clarion Area Elementary schools. Each box of donuts came with a special message: “We donut know what we would do without you! Thank you for all of your hard work!”

This simple act of kindness, fueled by the chapter’s fundraising efforts throughout the year, made a significant impact. The schools responded with heartfelt thanks, proving that sometimes it’s the little things that matter most.

Lambda Eta Chapter’s project serves as a delicious reminder that future educators can make a difference in their communities even before they enter the classroom. It’s a perfect example of how a small investment (about $65 and two hours of time) can yield sweet returns in teacher appreciation and community connection.

So, to all KDP chapters out there: why not take a page from Lambda Eta’s book? Sometimes, changing the world starts with changing someone’s day—and maybe a donut or two!

Popcorn, Postcards, and Appreciation: Eta Phi Chapter’s Celebration of Teaching

The Eta Phi Chapter at the University of Nebraska-Kearney took teacher appreciation to new heights with their creative “Popcorn & Postcards” project! This two-pronged approach to celebrating educators not only brightened the days of teachers across Nebraska but also sparked a campus-wide movement of gratitude.

Popping with Gratitude

KDP members assembled adorable “thank you” bundles featuring encouraging postcards tied to bags of popcorn. These sweet treats were hand-delivered to educators who had made a lasting impact on the members’ teaching journeys. From early childhood centers to high schools and even university classrooms, no level of education was left out of this popcorn party!

The project’s reach was impressive:

• 5 different school districts
• 50 KDP members participating
• Educators from all levels recognized

Banner of Appreciation

But wait, there’s more! The chapter didn’t stop at popcorn. They created a massive “Thank You Teachers” banner and invited students from all majors to sign it. This colorful display of gratitude now hangs proudly in the College of Education, reminding everyone of the vital role teachers play in our lives.

One Political Science major who signed the banner shared, “I signed because my professors here at UNK have taught me so much, and I wanted to show my gratitude!”

Impact Beyond the Classroom

The Eta Phi Chapter’s project didn’t just make teachers smile—it sparked conversations about the importance of educators and inspired students across disciplines to reflect on the teachers who have shaped their lives.

By combining tasty treats, heartfelt messages, and a visual reminder of appreciation, the Eta Phi Chapter created a celebration that was truly worth popping some corn over!