The Arkansas Department of Education has partnered with Educators Rising, Arkansas Institutions of Higher Education, and Education Service Cooperatives to host regional Pre-Educator recruitment events. Data shows that 60% of teachers work 20 miles from where they graduated high school. Therefore, the goal of these events is to ignite a passion for the education profession in high school students, which will in turn strengthen district teacher recruitment and retention efforts. 

The regional conferences are open to students and teachers with active national-level Educators Rising memberships. National Educators Rising membership is free for teacher leaders and $10 for student members. Information on memberships can be accessed here. If you are interested in establishing an Educators Rising Chapter, participating in Regional Conferences, or receiving funding for high school student memberships, contact Raven Harris, Educators Rising State Coordinator: Raven.Harris@ade.arkansas.gov.

Conference events include interactive breakout sessions where students will hear from leaders in education, as well as competitions that allow students to showcase their knowledge and skills as future educators. Students interested in holding a state leadership position in Educators Rising may apply during the regional conferences, and student officers will be announced at the state conference at Arkansas State University on March 28, 2023.

All regional conference registrations are due no later than October 4, 2022 at 5pm.  To ensure a successful regional conference that will be an enjoyable, well-organized event, we will not be able to accept late registrations.  To learn more about each regional event, Regional coordinators contact information and register your team, visit the Regional Events Folder. Individual and team winners advancing to the state competition may be eligible for funding, if available, to attend the National Educators Rising Conference July 29-June 2,2023 in Orlando, Florida. 

All students advancing to the State conference must have a parent, guardian, or teacher leader accompanying them to the National Conference. If you or someone you know is interested in judging a regional or state event please fill out this form.