One positive area of change is classroom management strategies that create environments where students want to participate. When students feel seen, valued and empowered, they're more likely to stay engaged and take ownership of their learning.

This year, approximately 421 new teacher candidates earned the prestigious badge of distinction. Awarded digitally, candidates can proudly display their micro-credentials on their LinkedIn profiles and other compatible social media platforms. This dynamic visual representation allows potential employers to easily verify the credential's authenticity and understand the rigorous criteria behind its attainment.

Moving into the realm of public education, Google applications are phenomenal. Of course, I still prefer to show students my Excel skills (I use Alt shortcuts), but Google integrates so seamlessly with the other applications my school district uses that I am glad we are a Google district.

Since 1984, New Jersey public schools have been welcoming talented individuals with liberal arts backgrounds but no education coursework to the teaching profession by way of an alternative licensure process commonly known as Alternate Route.

While some students dream of attending college or university after graduating high school, others may be passionate about trade careers, entrepreneurship, military service, travel or entering the workforce. The reality is that the path after high school looks much different for everyone, and the most effective educators recognize that student success looks different for every learner.