“As a future educator, I want to stress the importance of recognizing and understanding the fact that education is the foundation to most, if not all, occupations in the world.”
Elementary Education student Jordan Simpson’s journey to the College of Education began in a Saginaw high school as a participant in the pre-college Teacher Education Academy. In addition to introducing high school students to MSU’s campus and preparing them for success at the university level, the program affords participants the opportunity to earn college credit at no cost. The academy was the first of several doors Simpson opened as he crafted his undergraduate experience.
“Growing up, I didn't have positive African American male influences in regard to my K-12 experience,” Simpson said. “I wanted to change the harmful stereotypes regarding Black males in education and give back to the community that has given me this passion.”
Expanding on his passion for education, Jordan took advantage of additional opportunities offered by the College of Education, including the Early Success Scholars summer bridge program for incoming first-year students and the Urban Immersion Fellowship. Each program provides aspiring educators with experience, mentorship and financial support to develop their skills and increase their familiarity with classroom instruction.
Simpson’s maximization of his time at MSU extends beyond the classroom and into his extracurricular activities. Building upon pre-internship year classroom placements through the Teacher Preparation Program, Simpson’s leadership in Future Teachers of Color and MSU Gospel Choir has shaped his approach to teaching and advocacy. Simpson credits his experience as co-director of the choir as formative in providing unique insights that he applies in the classroom during his fieldwork.
“My time in placements through the Teacher Preparation Program has given me impactful lessons and strategies to help me become not only an effective teacher, but a powerful voice in today's society for not only those with the same identity markers as myself, but my future students as well.”
While a challenging reality, the national teacher shortage is an opportunity to continue to recruit aspiring educators who reflect a broad swath of individual identities and communities to the Teacher Preparation Program. Simpson feels empowered to answer this call and inspire future leaders to join him.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Simpson shares, “I feel as though it is imperative that male educators understand the power and impact they have when they enter a classroom.”
From early pipeline programs in Saginaw to classrooms on the campuses of MSU and schools in Detroit and the Lansing area, Simpson’s journey reflects what’s possible when talent, mentorship and opportunity align with a bold determination to uplift all K-12 student populations. The next generation of Spartan educators is already stepping forward to lead classrooms, challenge stereotypes and inspire the students who will follow.
Related links
Learn about our pre- and early college programs offered by the Office of Access & Community Engagement, directed by Associate Dean Terry Flennaugh.
- Teacher Education Academy (and the related Kinesiology Academy): A pre-college program for high school students in partnering urban districts intended to increase college preparation and readiness as well as nurture an interest in careers in education.
- Early Success Scholars: A free residential summer bridge program tailored to first year incoming Education students from urban districts.
- Urban Immersion Fellowship: A paid, 6-week summer fellowship for teacher preparation students to work with children in Detroit.