Future Teachers of America Day

Every year on November 20, the United States celebrates Future Teachers of America Day, a special occasion that recognizes students who dream of becoming teachers and honors the incredible impact educators have on children, schools and communities. On this day, schools, colleges and education organizations shine a spotlight on aspiring educators, encourage them to explore teaching as a career and remind everyone that tomorrow’s classrooms depend on the passion and preparation of today’s future teachers. The observance also highlights the ongoing teacher shortages in many regions and the need to support, mentor and inspire young people who feel called to teach.

History of Future Teachers of America Day

Future Teachers of America Day grew out of efforts to encourage young people to consider teaching as a profession and to ensure a strong pipeline of well-prepared educators. Its roots are connected to the Future Teachers of America (FTA) organization, which began in the mid-20th century with support from the National Education Association to give high school and college students a structured way to explore teaching, build leadership skills and participate in education-related activities. ¹

Over time, local FTA chapters and education advocates promoted the idea of dedicating a special day to aspiring teachers. By setting the observance on November 20 each year, schools and communities could plan career fairs, classroom shadowing, mentoring and recognition events that celebrate future educators and raise the profile of teaching. Today, Future Teachers of America Day is widely listed on education and holiday calendars as an annual date to honor future teachers and highlight the importance of the teaching profession.

Why is Future Teachers of America Day important?

Future Teachers of America Day is important because it focuses attention on the next generation of educators at a time when many regions are facing teacher shortages and declining enrollment in teacher-preparation programs. By recognizing students who are interested in teaching, the day helps them feel valued, encourages them to keep pursuing their goals and connects them with resources and mentors who can guide them along the way. It sends a clear message that choosing teaching is not only a job decision but also a meaningful way to shape lives and communities.

The observance also reminds the wider public that every profession is built on the work of teachers who once stood in front of a classroom and nurtured curiosity, skills and confidence. Highlighting future teachers invites families, schools and policymakers to invest more deeply in teacher education, working conditions and support. When communities celebrate aspiring educators, they also affirm the long-term value of strong public education systems and the people who keep them going.

• It celebrates students who are considering careers in teaching.
• It raises awareness of teacher shortages and the need for new educators.
• It reminds communities how vital teachers are to every other profession.
• It encourages mentorship, guidance and support for aspiring teachers.
• It highlights teaching as a respected, rewarding, and impactful career path.

How to Celebrate Future Teachers of America Day

Celebrate Future Teachers of America Day by recognizing and encouraging the students in your school, college or community who are interested in becoming teachers. Schools can organize announcements, certificates or small appreciation events for members of education clubs, FTA chapters or education majors. Career counselors and faculty can use the day to share information about teacher-preparation programs, scholarships, and alternative routes into the classroom, helping students see a clear path toward becoming educators.

Classrooms and youth programs can mark the day with activities that let students “try on” the role of teacher: peer-teaching mini-lessons, tutoring younger students, or helping plan a simple learning activity. Families and community members can show support by thanking future teachers they know, sharing positive stories about educators, and advocating for strong support of education programs at local and state levels. Even small gestures of encouragement can help future teachers feel seen and motivated.

• Host a recognition event or shout-out for students who plan to become teachers.
• Organize classroom shadowing or mentoring between future teachers and experienced educators.
• Invite education majors or local teachers to speak about the realities and rewards of teaching.
• Encourage students to “teach” a short lesson or help tutor younger learners.
• Share messages of thanks and encouragement to aspiring educators on school channels or social media.

Future Teachers of America Day Dates Table

1. https://www.elevateteaching.us/resources-library/future-teachers-of-america-day[↩]