In a room filled with laughter, pride, and the unmistakable energy of change-makers, CEA Aspiring Educators gathered for their annual Apple Banquet to celebrate a year of leadership, service, and dedication.
“This program is so critical,” said CEA President Kate Dias. “I’m so proud of what all of you have done to ensure that this isn’t just a moment—it’s a movement. We don’t become teachers because it’s easy; we become teachers because we are teachers. It’s who we are at our core.”
Saturday evening was a powerful reminder that, even in a challenging education landscape, the future is bright and—with Aspiring Educators—in good hands.
A Year of Advocacy, Service, and Joy
Aspiring educators (AEs) spent the year building community, supporting peers, and advocating for students and educators across the state.
“You’ve created spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered,” said CEA Educational Issues Specialist Elizabeth Sked. “You rolled up your sleeves and lived your values—through book drives, beautification projects, advocacy at the Capitol, and mentoring students. You’re not just the future of education; you’re shaping it right now.”
CEA Aspiring Educators Chair Emma Sands.
Emma Sands, chair of Connecticut’s AE Program, reflected on the spirit that drives the program’s success. “Your energy, your commitment, your ideas are what makes this program so special,” she said. “We’ve seen amazing growth, seen our members step into leadership roles, and supported each other through every challenge and exciting event. From our workshops to our panels, our annual Read Across event to our puzzle installation at the Legislative Office Building.”
NEA Aspiring Educators Chairperson Hannah StClair, visiting from Oregon, lit up the room with personal stories and inspiration.
“This current reality might feel heavy,” she acknowledged, “but our vision for the future is strong. We must stretch ourselves to believe in the future—because our students deserve nothing less.”
She emphasized that the work of education is not about saving others but about “building empathy, imagination, critical thinking, and joy.”
Honoring the Essential Role of Educators
Former U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona electrified the audience with an address that was part rallying cry, part heartfelt reflection.
“You are essential,” Cardona declared. “There are children being born today who will find their confidence—their dreams—because of you. No other profession exists without educators.”
Former Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona.
Reflecting on the early days of the pandemic, Cardona reminded the audience of education’s pivotal role in society’s resilience. “During the darkest days, educators showed up—and you continue to show up. Even when it’s hard. Even when the world feels heavy. That’s what makes you essential.”
He urged future teachers to “measure success not by titles but by testimonies—by the lives you change.”
In a touching moment, Cardona shared his own story of perseverance and mentorship, highlighting the teachers who believed in him before he believed in himself. His journey underscored the life-changing impact educators have every single day.
“You are stepping into a profession that is not just about knowledge but about heart,” he said. “Your work will not always be easy, but it will always be essential. There is no greater privilege than helping a young person see their own potential.”
He closed by reminding the audience, “Every day you walk into a classroom, you carry hope with you. Never underestimate the power you have to change a life.”
Lifting Each Other Up
Dias captured the spirit of the evening, noting that “every day might not be perfect in education, but our effort is. When one day is hard for you, you pick up your friends, and they pick you up.”
She emphasized that belonging to a strong union family, like CEA, means no educator ever has to face challenges alone.
CEA Executive Director Todd Jaeck celebrated the “power of invitation” in the classroom, in the community, and in life.
“Every lesson you teach, every conversation you have, is an invitation to a better future,” he said. “An invitation plants a seed of possibility.”
Jaeck encouraged members to continue reaching out to peers, inviting them to become part of the community of support and advocacy that defines CEA.
The Heart Behind the Movement
The real magic of the banquet came from the voices of graduating seniors who have lived the Aspiring Educator journey.
“This program has made me a better educator,” shared Katie Kane. “It opened my eyes to a whole different world.”
NEA Aspiring Educators Chairperson Hannah StClair.
Julia Martocchio reflected, “Being here made it less intimidating to enter the profession. It’s empowering to be around people who understand—who know that teaching is hard but so worth it.”
Lauren Cook added, “The program showed me that making an impact goes beyond the classroom—it’s about touching children’s lives in every way possible.”
Elizabeth Hadden shared, “This community has taught me that every small act of kindness and every moment of advocacy matters. We’ve learned to be bold, to speak up, and to always put students first.”
Their words, filled with hope and determination, were echoed by Elisabeth Sked’s emotional closing remarks.
“Never forget, you are not alone,” Sked said, her voice filled with pride. “CEA sees you, supports you, and celebrates you. Keep showing up with that fire. The world needs educators and advocates exactly like you.”
The Work Ahead
As the evening came to a close, the charge was clear: to continue building community, leading with heart, and advocating fiercely for equity and excellence in education.
“You’re entering the best profession at a time when your students need you most,” Cardona told them. “There’s a child—right now—who will discover their dreams because you were there.”
From the heartfelt tributes to the spontaneous bursts of laughter, the evening embodied the spirit of what it means to be an educator: courage, connection, compassion—and above all, hope.
In the words of Hannah StClair, quoting the musical “Newsies,” “Courage cannot erase our fear. Courage is when we face our fear.” And Connecticut’s Aspiring Educators are more than ready to face the future—together.
