GCPS Hosts 2026 “Signing Day” for aspiring teachers

     Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) recently hosted its 10th annual Future Teacher “Signing Day” celebration, honoring GCPS students who are planning to pursue an education degree after high school. The event, held on April 15, is part of the district’s long-standing commitment to “grow our own” teachers and leaders.

     “Future Teacher Signing Day is a meaningful celebration and strategic investment for GCPS. For our district, the event represents a commitment to developing a strong, sustainable pipeline of future educators who are deeply connected to our schools and communities,” says GCPS Director of Employee Experience Arsha Johnson.

     More than 130 students signed up to attend the event, which builds confidence and pride through mirroring athletic and academic celebrations, reinforcing that choosing teaching is an achievement worthy of recognition. Supporting and celebrating future educators strengthens GCPS’ teacher pipeline and helps build loyalty to the profession and to the district as an employer. Publicly honoring students choosing education sends a powerful message that teaching is a valued, respected, and impactful career in Gwinnett County.

     The event also highlights GCPS’ collaboration with colleges, universities, and educator preparation programs, reflecting a shared commitment to developing high-quality teachers. During the program, the following six scholarships were awarded:

2026 Teaching as a Profession scholarship recipients: Chloe Michel of Brookwood High School, Caroline Ansley of Mountain View High School, Natalie Lorentz of North Gwinnett High School, and Naika Fuerte McDaniel of Peachtree Ridge High School

Alton C. Crews Educator Scholarship recipient: Caleb Menghisteab of Paul Duke STEM High School .

J. Alvin Wilbanks Educator Scholarship recipient: Caroline Ansley of Mountain View High School                             

     “By recognizing students who have chosen to pursue careers in education, GCPS is intentionally growing future talent to meet long-term staffing needs,” Johnson adds. “Supporting future teachers early helps to address shortages over time and ensures classrooms are led by well-prepared, passionate educators who understand our district’s culture.”

     The event also helps students create professional connections as they engage with colleges, universities, professional organizations, representatives from the Department of Education, and district leaders who can support them throughout their journey. Johnson says the event validates students’ career choices and strengthens the feeling of belonging. Students feel seen, celebrated, and affirmed as they commit to becoming educators. They can envision themselves returning to GCPS as educators, giving back to the schools and communities that shaped them.

     “Future Teacher Signing Day intentionally elevates teaching as a profession and affirms students’ and current employees’ commitment to making a difference in the lives of others,” Johnson explains.

     The event showcases a supportive village where students can see themselves growing. Whether participants are just beginning to explore education or are already deeply committed, Future Teacher Signing Day reinforces the importance of perseverance. The event underscores that developing and supporting future teachers is a shared responsibility. Johnson says she hopes attendees leave feeling connected—not just to GCPS, but to one another and to the broader mission of strengthening education for each and every student.

     “Overall, Future Teacher Signing Day reflects GCPS’ belief that investing in students today is essential to ensuring excellent teaching and learning for years to come,” adds Johnson. “It celebrates purpose, partnership, our commitment to growing our own, and the future of education in Gwinnett County.”