Aspiring Educators is a program for college students pursuing a career in education. You’ll get long-term professional support that lasts well beyond graduation: professional development opportunities, community-building, certification help, and more! 

Offered by the Connecticut Education Association, Aspiring Educators is a statewide program, so you can participate no matter where you’re going to school. 

Aspiring Educators offers tons of resources and support, including: 
 

• Access to professional development, such as educator conferences and student-focused events.
• Leadership and teaching opportunities, through tutoring and mentoring in local schools. 
• Connections with experienced educators in your community. 
• Teacher certification support, including Praxis test prep! 
• Tips and guidance to land your first teaching job.
• Membership in the Connecticut Education Association and National Education Association. These memberships come with perks like networking opportunities, leadership training, and discounts on travel, school supplies, and more. 

You can join Aspiring Educators through your university if it has an Aspiring Educators chapter. See which CT schools have chapters.

No chapter at your school? No problem! You can still sign up on the Aspiring Educators website. 
 

NextGen Educators is a paid, hands-on opportunity for undergraduates in participating teaching programs. You'll work directly in local classrooms—gaining real experience while supporting real schools in your community.

You get to build your resume and earn money, and schools get extra classroom support. That’s a win-win for everyone!

With NextGen Educators, you’ll get real classroom experience throughout your teaching program. You don’t have to wait for student teaching! 

Here’s what to expect: 
 

• Your university partners with local districts to place you in a school. 
• You’ll work 2–3 days a week in a classroom, while taking your courses around your work schedule.
• Instead of earning course credit, you’ll get paid for your classroom work! Pay varies by district, so talk to your teaching program to learn about specific pay rates. 

Here’s what you’ll get through NextGen Educators:
 

• Earn a paycheck working in a local school district.
• Get hands-on experience throughout your college career—not just during student teaching.
• Work with experienced classroom mentors. 
• Build your professional network early. This can help you land a job when it’s time to graduate!