Region 9 Education Service Center

Future Educator’s Day, also known as Future Teachers of America Day, is celebrated nationwide on November 20 to recognize individuals pursuing a career in education. In recognition of the day, Region 9 Education Service Center is highlighting the many ways it supports future educators—from students exploring teaching as a career to adults seeking certification and advancement in the field.

One of the primary ways Region 9 ESC supports aspiring teachers is through its Destination: Educator / Pathways to Certification initiative. This program provides guidance and resources to help individuals identify the best route to the classroom based on their background and goals.

• For college students, the traditional route allows candidates to earn a bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate simultaneously, often including student teaching or residency programs that offer extended classroom experience and mentorship.
• Current paraprofessionals may pursue the paraprofessional pathway, which builds on their existing classroom experience while allowing them to work toward certification.
• Individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree can follow the alternative certification track, completing online training focused on instructional strategies and classroom management before teaching under a probationary certificate with structured support. Certified teachers may also continue their professional journey by pursuing additional certifications or advanced degrees to become counselors, principals, or other educational leaders.

Details on each pathway, along with links to partner institutions and resources, are available on the Region 9 ESC Pathways to Certification webpage. Certification Specialist Debbie Cummings is also available to assist individuals throughout the certification process and can be reached at 940-322-6928 or by emailing Debbie.

In addition to certification support, Region 9 ESC works to inspire the next generation of educators through its Be A Star…Teach! outreach efforts. By participating in career fairs and supporting student organizations such as the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE) and the Future Coaches of Texas Association (FCTA), the ESC encourages students to see themselves as future teachers, explore the wide range of roles within education, and recognize the lasting impact educators have on communities.

The centerpiece of these outreach efforts will be the second SparkED Conference, scheduled for January 21, 2026, at Region 9 ESC. Designed for 11th and 12th grade students exploring careers in education, along with the teachers who support them, the conference aims to inspire and equip future educators. The event will feature a keynote address by Wichita Falls native and Olympic medalist Taliyah Brooks.

Through certification pathways, student outreach, and signature events like SparkED, Region 9 ESC continues its commitment to supporting and strengthening the future educator pipeline across the region.