FCCLA Launched the First Annual National Be a Teacher Day™ at the National Press Club in Washington D.C.

Herndon, VA – October 14, 2025— Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) hosted a national press event at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, October 9, 2025, to spotlight the launch of National Be A Teacher Day and address America’s growing teacher shortage.

The October 9 event brought together future teachers, organizational leaders, and district administrators to spotlight the urgent need for educators and inspire the next generation to see teaching as a rewarding and impactful career. It also marked the official launch of National Be A Teacher Day, to be held annually on the second Thursday in October. In addition to the national kickoff, 50 Be A Teacher Day events took place across 20 states, including the District of Columbia, hosted by FCCLA Chapters and education partners committed to supporting the teaching profession. More information is available at www.beateacherday.org. 

“Across the country, teachers are shaping lives and building the future, yet we face a growing shortage that threatens classrooms nationwide,” said Sandy Spavone, FCCLA Chief Executive Officer. “National Be a Teacher Day is both a celebration and a call to action. It elevates the essential work of today’s educators while encouraging students to see teaching as a career where they can make a lasting difference. FCCLA is proud to partner with other education leaders through this outreach to inspire the next generation of teachers.”

Speakers at the October 9 event include:

• Sandy Spavone, FCCLA Chief Executive Officer
• Alyson McIntyre Reiger, Executive Director of LeadFCS
• Dr. Brady Fleming, Associate Superintendent of School Improvement, Waukee Community School District (Iowa)
• Jill Cook, Executive Director, American School Counselor Association
• Peyton Holland, Executive Director, National Technical Honor Society
• Aleigha Police, Freshman at Bridgewater College studying to become an educator
• Kimberly Wilson, 2020 ACTE National Teacher of the Year and Career and Technical Education Leader.

These speakers shared perspectives from across the education landscape, from national leadership to classroom experience, addressing the importance of supporting teachers and empowering students to pursue careers in education.

This press event underscored FCCLA’s commitment to advancing education, elevating teaching, and empowering students to lead in their schools and communities. 

About FCCLA

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a nationally recognized, student-led organization with a rich history dating back to 1945. Rooted in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) education, FCCLA annually empowers over 260,000 student members across 5,400 chapters nationwide. FCCLA uniquely focuses on careers that support families, fostering the development of strong leaders in families, careers, and communities.