Jacobsen Qualifies for Nationals at State Ed Rising
Plainview Educators Rising Chapter returned from its first State Leadership Conference with several chapter awards and member Shayla Jacobsen qualifying for nationals in two events and earning several individual awards. The 2025 Educators Rising State Leadership Conference themed “Building the Blueprint” was held in Kearney on February 26-27. The theme encouraged members to reflect on how they can design their unique paths and construct a foundation for their future in education. They were encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities to engage with others, gain new skills, and contribute to the blueprint for success. Attending the conference this year was member Shayla Jacobsen and Teacher Leader Ronita Jacobsen.
During the Competitive Events portion Shayla competed in two events. She received 1st Place Blue Ribbon (score of 98-100) in Interactive Bulletin Board Elementary Classroom Varsity Division and 3rd Place Red Ribbon Job Interview Varsity. With her scores and placings, she qualified for national competition which will be held in Orlando, Florida June 26-29.
The Recognition General Session began with a Parade of Chapters. Jacobsen proudly displayed the Plainview Pirates as she walked across the stage. This was followed by the Senior Signing Event which celebrates graduating high school seniors who have committed to pursuing a post-secondary education in the field of education. This special ceremony recognizes students as they take the first steps toward becoming future educators, affirming their dedication to shaping the next generation. The signing symbolizes their commitment to the teaching profession and serves as an inspiring milestone for their educational journey. Jacobsen participated in this event signing to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education.
The Plainview Chapter received several awards during the recognition session. They received the Silver Chapter Award. The Chapter Award gives Educators Rising chapters the opportunity to showcase and receive recognition for their exceptional work in Membership, Leadership, Promoting Educators Rising, and Competitive Events and Programs. The Chapter also was awarded the Feed Nebraska Award. Chapter members are encouraged to work with other CTSOs and community organizations to address food insecurity in their school and/or community.
Blue and White Chapter Affiliation Award was awarded to the Plainview Chapter for having 100% of members in Education and Training classes. This award is designed to encourage Educators Rising members and Teacher Leaders to recruit Educators Rising members from their Education & Training classes. These students often have background knowledge of Ed & Training and have the opportunity to learn about and interact with Educators Rising within the classroom on a regular basis.
Members also had the opportunity to take Education & Training Challenge Tests. These academic knowledge tests cover a wide range of subjects aligned with state Education & Training standards, allowing participants to showcase the skills and knowledge gained from their Education & Training courses and involvement in Educators Rising. The Education & Training Challenge Tests are designed to evaluate participants' abilities through a rigorous exam, with test questions developed from current course standards and a variety of curricular resources, so participants are tested on relevant and up-to-date information.
Shayla took 6 tests offered at the Varsity level (grades 11-12). She received 4 first place finishes in: Education & Training Terminology, Lifespan Development, Education & Training II (aligned to Best Practices in Education & Training), and Education & Training III (aligned to Education & Training Practicum). She received 2nd place in Education & Training I (aligned to Teaching as a Profession) and 3rd place in Child Development.
During Educators Rising Week, Shayla Jacobsen had fun posting out the week’s activities and events on social media, tagging in the national account. For her positive use of social media, she received a “Giveaway Recognition”, an Ed. Rising bag with a t-shirt, tumbler and other Ed. Rising promotional materials.
Breakout sessions were also available to attend. Favorite sessions attended were the Opportunity Fair, Youth Networking, Unlock Your Brain Box, Kids & Dreams: Providing Hope and Inclusion. “I really enjoyed learning about Operation Shine Camp which is a camp for kids with autism and other related conditions. This camp helps these kids gain self-confidence and independence. It would be an amazing camp to help at.” Shayla stated.
Jacobsen also listened to State Officer Candidate speeches and was a scorekeeper during the LifesSmarts Knowledge Bowl Tuesday morning. Evening Activities included Music Bingo and Family Feud where members could mix and meet others from across the state. Jacobsen left the conference inspired and empowered to draft, design, and build her future as a leader in education.
“I was thoroughly impressed with the conference and quality of the sessions.” Adviser Jacobsen stated. “If a student is considering a degree in education or working with children, then this is the organization for them. Between the learning at sessions, the networking, and leadership opportunities there is so much that can be gained. Experiences and opportunities are abundant!”
Educators Rising is cultivating a new generation of highly skilled educators by guiding young people on a path from high school through college and into their teaching careers. By working with aspiring educators who reflect the demographics of their communities and who are passionate about serving those communities through public education, Educators Rising is changing the face of teaching.