Deborah A. Frison, Deputy Commissioner School Improvement and Support | Nebraska Department of Education
Nearly 150 student members, chapter teacher leaders, and adult chaperones from Educators Rising chapters across Nebraska attended the 2025 Educators Rising National Conference in Orlando, Florida, from June 26-29. The event hosted over 3,400 attendees including students, teacher leaders, administrators, and education professionals. It provided networking opportunities, leadership development sessions, and national competitions.
The theme for this year was “Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders,” focusing on initiatives that uplift student voices and celebrate diversity. Nebraska participants engaged in a service project with A Gift for Teaching to collect school supplies for Central Florida classrooms.
Keynote speakers included Missy Testerman, the 2024 National Teacher of the Year, who discussed passion and cultural bridges in classrooms. Nick Moore from the U.S. Department of Education addressed attendees about their responsibilities and impact as future educators.
More than 70 breakout sessions covered topics like student leadership and diversity in teaching. Nebraska students participated in over 40 competitive events such as public speaking and lesson planning.
Activities at the conference included a College & Innovation Fair and a National Signing Event where seniors committed to careers in education. Shayla Jacobsen committed to studying Early Childhood Education & Elementary Education at Northeast Community College & Wayne State College; Lilly Elsasser signed her commitment to study Elementary Education at Concordia University Nebraska.
Owen Elsasser of Ralston High School was elected as the 2025-2026 Educators Rising Vice President of Communications during the Closing General Session. He will serve alongside other newly elected officers from various states.
Nebraska was represented by 114 competitors across various events during national contests held at the conference. Competitions offered students opportunities to demonstrate creativity and professionalism with medals awarded to top finalists.
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