Lehigh University’s College of Education will hold two events next month aimed at addressing Pennsylvania’s ongoing teacher shortage while celebrating current educators in the region.
An educator job fair takes place Feb. 3, connecting school districts from eastern Pennsylvania with teaching candidates.
The following day, Lehigh will honor local educators during a pregame ceremony before the women’s basketball game against Loyola.
The events come as Pennsylvania schools continue to struggle with vacancies in special education, STEM fields and other high-need areas. Districts across the Lehigh Valley, greater Philadelphia region and statewide have reported relying on emergency-certified staff to fill classrooms.
The job fair will give aspiring and experienced educators access to districts seeking qualified candidates, while schools gain direct connections to prepared teachers.
“High-quality educators change lives—not just academically, but by building confidence and opportunity that echo across generations,” said Brook Sawyer, professor and associate dean for graduate studies at Lehigh’s College of Education. “These events reflect our commitment to supporting current educators and welcoming new ones to a profession that remains deeply meaningful and rewarding.”
The initiatives are part of Lehigh’s Joy in Education campaign, a year-long effort to highlight what sustains educators through challenges.
The teacher shortage stems from declining enrollment in preparation programs and early-career attrition, according to Lehigh’s College of Education, which has responded with programs including a graduate certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Learning Analytics, which trains teachers to use emerging technologies in classrooms.
“Teaching offers unmatched rewards: the chance to shape the next generation, serve your community and country, and witness your students’ growth,” Sawyer said. “Whether you’re an educator seeking new opportunities or someone considering this calling, Lehigh stands ready to support your journey.”
Details about the events and Lehigh’s teacher preparation programs are available at Lehigh University’s College of Education website.