Auburn College of Education to host Future Teachers of Alabama Eastern Conference

Auburn University’s College of Education has long been a hub for preparing the next generation of educators. On Feb. 6, it’ll serve that role again as it hosts the Future Teachers of Alabama (FTA) Eastern Conference, welcoming nearly 600 middle and high school students for a full day of learning, inspiration and hands‑on exploration of the teaching profession.

“Future Teachers of Alabama (FTA) is a pre-professional organization for middle and high school students interested in exploring teaching as a potential career path,” said College of Education Student Services Coordinator David Shamp. “We are excited to welcome and encourage these students to explore the field of education in order to build a better future for all.”

Auburn University’s Melton Student Center will serve as the heart of the conference. Check‑in begins at 8 a.m. in the third‑floor Ballroom, where students from 35 schools will be greeted by Auburn staff and even Auburn’s beloved mascot, Aubie. After visits with college representatives, the opening session will feature a welcome from College of Education Dean Jeffrey Fairbrother and FTA candidate videos.

Following that, students will rotate through breakout sessions designed to mirror the realities of classroom life and the opportunities of the teaching profession. Auburn faculty and education leaders will guide sessions such as:

• Empowering Future Teachers: Using AI Responsibly and Creatively in the Classroom
• Sparking Curiosity: Bold Strategies for Engaged Elementary Learners
• From Surviving to Thriving: Preventing Burnout Before You Begin
• COURSE Scholars: Building Auburn University’s Next Generation of Educators

Other sessions will focus on practical preparation, including “How to College 101,” “Preparing for the First Year of Teaching” and “Gathering Tools for the Educator Toolbox.”

Competitions will also give students the chance to showcase their creativity and classroom readiness through interactive bulletin boards, children’s literature activities and ethical dilemma challenges.

After lunch, the general session will feature remarks from the National Education Association’s Aspiring Educator Chairperson, followed by closing reflections from Auburn College of Education Associate Dean for Academic and Faculty Affairs Jared Russell. The day will conclude with a send‑off encouraging students to carry their new insights back to their schools and communities.