New ISTE+ASCD Guide Highlights Proven Approaches for Inspiring the Next Generation of Educators

WASHINGTON, D.C. - ISTE+ASCD today announced the release of Attracting Tomorrow’s Teachers: Strategies for Increasing Enrollment in Teacher Education Programs, a new guide showcasing innovative, high-impact approaches that educator preparation programs (EPPs) across the country are using to elevate the teaching profession and draw more future educators into the field.

While many programs nationwide are working to rebuild their enrollment pipelines, institutions featured in this guide are demonstrating that growth is not only possible but already happening. They are adopting modern communications strategies, expanding access for nontraditional students, and building powerful partnerships with school districts—resulting in renewed interest and increased applications from aspiring educators.

“Today’s students want meaningful careers where they can make a difference — and teaching offers exactly that,” said Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE+ASCD. “This guide captures the creativity and commitment of preparation programs that are already attracting future educators by highlighting the joy, purpose, and lifelong opportunity that define the profession. To attract tomorrow’s teachers, we must meet today’s learners with flexible pathways, strong mentorship, modernized curriculum, and vibrant portrayals of what it means to teach.”

Developed with insights from leaders in the ISTE+ASCD Alliance for Innovation in Teacher Preparation—a network of more than 140 educator preparation programs committed to transforming teacher education—the guide spotlights proven, replicable strategies that help programs grow enrollment and strengthen impact.

1. Elevate the Story and Value of Teaching: Programs like Old Dominion University are reframing teaching as an inspiring, purpose-driven career full of growth, creativity, and connection. By using authentic student voices, compelling digital storytelling, and refreshed recruitment messaging, EPPs are helping prospective teacher candidates envision themselves in the classroom.
2. Welcome and Support Nontraditional Candidates: Career changers, paraprofessionals, and adult learners bring rich experience and diverse perspectives. Organizations  such as College Unbound are designing flexible pathways—hybrid schedules, credit for prior learning, and supportive cohort models—that make it easier for adults to complete degrees while continuing to work. These innovations are expanding and diversifying the educator pipeline.
3. Inspire Future Teachers Early: Many programs are engaging students long before college, offering hands-on experiences, dual enrollment courses, and campus learning opportunities that spark early interest in teaching. Utah Valley University and the Center for Black Educator Development, for example, provide high school students with field experiences, college credit, and immersive learning—giving them a head start toward teacher preparation programs.
4. Remove Financial Barriers to Entry: Programs highlighted in the guide show that financial transparency and support can be transformational. From the University of Maryland’s embedded financial advising to Old Dominion University’s residency and apprenticeship pathways, EPPs are helping teacher candidates navigate costs with confidence—often enabling students to complete programs debt-free.

Attracting Tomorrow’s Teachers: Strategies for Increasing Enrollment in Teacher Education Programs is available here.

About ISTE+ASCD
ISTE+ASCD is the largest innovation-focused education non-profit worldwide, working in every US state and over 100 countries around the world. The ISTE Standards are research-based and field tested, guiding education professionals to use technology effectively to transform learning. ISTE+ASCD offers inspiring events, professional certifications, dynamic member communities and innovative thought leadership to design the future of learning.