First annual Teacher Education Induction

ALLI WICHERT
PHOTOGRAPHER

LEXIE THAYER
LAYOUT EDITOR

2/23/2026

On the night of January 26th, the Alma College education program hosted the first-ever celebration for the newest generation of Teacher Education Program (TEP) students and the current Alma College student teachers. 

This ceremony hosted 78 students, with 42 of the students being inducted into the general teacher education program and 36 students being admitted as student teachers.

The education staff was also there to congratulate students, with professors such as Peggy Yates, Kathy Paul, Rebecca Couch, Karen Carmen, and Mike Walker being a part of the celebration.

“We are so fortunate to be preparing the next generation of teachers. These students are not only meeting the rigorous program requirements, but they are stepping into a profession that truly shapes the future of our community,” said Professor Peggy Yates.

The majority of students inducted into the TEP were sophomores, with the requirements of the program including a 3.0 GPA and the completion of core classes such as basic English and Math.

“It was bittersweet seeing all of my fellow sophomore education majors at the ceremony– it felt like we were getting so old already. I can’t imagine what graduation will feel like!” said Hailee Risner (‘28).

This is the first step in the average education major’s career at Alma College, and for students, this can feel like the beginning in their pathway to becoming teachers.

“Getting accepted and recognized felt like a validation of my academic potential.  I am so excited to interact more with the skilled education staff here,” said Mayte Vazquez-Ceballos (‘28).

In tandem, student teachers were given initiative for getting into the classroom, being awarded with new name tags and recognition.

“Truly, the new name tag solidified my passion for teaching. I’ve been in the classroom before, but this felt more serious and official,” said Emerson Inzeo (‘27). 

Similar to the TEP program, becoming an Alma College Student Teacher additionally has its own requirements, including progress in their major, a 2.75 GPA, and submitted lesson plans.

Additionally, the ceremony provided all of the attendees with sweets and treats, giving the room a very fun, airy vibe. Gourmet cotton candy was provided to students and faculty, as well as shaved ice for enjoyment afterwards. 

“I really appreciate how they kept the vibes very happy and less professional. It made me feel so welcomed and loved by the faculty at Alma College,” said Lillian Sierakowski (‘28).

The first Teacher Education Program Induction and student teaching recognition was more than just a ceremony. It was a strong reflection of the sense of community that Alma College provides their aspiring educators.

“Our candidates are stepping into a profession that changes lives every day, and this celebration recognizes both their achievement and their commitment to serving students and schools with excellence,” said Yates.

By recognizing both newly inducted TEP students and students stepping into student teaching, the Alma College Education department showed their support for all who decide to take the route of teaching.

With faculty support and a tight-knit community, Alma’s future educators are well prepared to leave a lasting impact on their classrooms.