Montclair State University Celebrates Future Educators at 2026 Teacher Education Celebration

During Teacher Appreciation Week, the College for Education and Engaged Learning at Montclair State University proudly celebrated its newest generation of educators. The 2026 Teacher Education Celebration recognized graduates, cooperating teachers, mentors, faculty and staff who have supported students on their journey to the classroom.

Held at the Student Center Ballroom, the annual event brought together nearly 160 attendees in one of the largest celebrations in recent years. Approximately 100 graduating teacher candidates, 40 cooperating teachers and mentors, and more than 20 faculty and staff members gathered to honor the accomplishments of Montclair’s future educators and the communities that helped shape their success.

“This celebration is always a meaningful moment for our graduates as they reflect on their journey and prepare to enter the profession,” said Carlos Flores, Director for Career Development and Success at the College for Education and Engaged Learning. “I could think of no better way to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week and the end of the semester than by celebrating our amazing Teacher Education graduates!”

Dean Vincent Alfonso of the College for Education and Engaged Learning reflected on the significance of the annual celebration and the strong sense of community shared among graduates, faculty and mentors.

“Each year we celebrate our graduates who are entering the work world as teachers!” Alfonso said. “And each year this event is a highlight as nearly 200 people gather to celebrate the year and wish each other all the best in the years to come. Our graduates know they are always welcome in CEEL and that they can take part in continuing professional development at no cost. Congratulations to the class of 2026!”

The event featured keynote remarks from Gillian Ober, the 2025-2026 New Jersey Teacher of the Year, who shared words of encouragement and inspiration with graduates as they prepared to begin their careers as full-time educators. Ober reflected on the importance of resilience, relationship-building and the lasting impact teachers have on students and communities.

In addition to celebrating graduates, the event highlighted the importance of mentorship and partnership in teacher preparation. Cooperating teachers and school partners were recognized for their commitment to supporting Montclair teacher candidates through hands-on classroom experiences that prepare them to lead with confidence and compassion.

Attendees also learned more about resources available to graduates as they transition into the profession, including information about the New Teacher Induction Program designed to support early-career educators during their first years in the classroom.

“We are excited to share that Montclair now offers New Teacher Induction Support for all of our recent graduates,” said Rhena Jasey-Goodman, Assistant Director of New Teacher Induction. “We encourage all recent Montclair graduates who are working as teachers to attend our Summer Induction Retreat on August 20, where they will become part of our Induction Community and leave with practical strategies and tools to set them up for success in their new role.”

Jasey-Goodman explained that the program serves as a bridge for new teachers transitioning from their time as students learning educational theory and practicing instructional methods to becoming teachers of record in their own classrooms. “Our goal is to provide new teachers with the resources, tools and strategies they need to implement the ideas and theories they learned while students at Montclair,” she said. “This support leads to higher rates of retention, fulfillment and joy in the classroom.”

Graduates interested in learning more about the New Teacher Induction Program, mentorship opportunities and the upcoming Summer Induction Retreat can view the program overview here. Alumni are also encouraged to join the New Teacher Connections and Induction Support group on MONTCLAIRconnect to network with fellow educators, access resources and stay connected to the Montclair teaching community. 

As the semester came to a close, the Teacher Education Celebration recognized graduates for their achievements and welcomed them into the Montclair State alumni community, where they will remain connected to a network of fellow educators, mentors and University partners. As they begin their careers in classrooms across New Jersey and beyond, the University looks forward to supporting and celebrating their continued success as members of the Red Hawk alumni family. 

Class of 2026 – Welcome to Your Alumni Network!

Graduates interested in staying connected, learning about alumni programs and events, or getting involved with the University community are encouraged to contact the Office of Alumni Engagement at 973-655-4141 or alumni@montclair.edu.