Celebrating The Commitment Of Future Aggie Teachers

If you keep a close eye on the graduates at this week’s ceremonies, you’ll notice something new at Texas A&M. Powder blue cords. 352 graduates will be wearing the cords at ceremonies on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

The Department of Teaching, Learning and Culture in the College of Education and Human Development is providing the cords for students who have committed to the teaching profession and passed their certification tests.

Dr. Michael de Miranda, TLAC department head, got inspiration for the idea from his former institution. The department wanted to honor those entering the teaching profession by providing a small token of recognition and thanks.

“Too often the people who choose this profession are overlooked. These individuals have chosen a challenging and rewarding career and we want to honor and recognize them for the difference they will make in the lives of their students,” explained Dr. Janet Hammer, associate department head for undergraduate programs.

However, the honor goes beyond CEHD. Graduates from several colleges across campus, who have chosen to enter the teaching profession, will also be wearing the cords at this week’s ceremonies. All of these fearless Aggies, will join the over 10,000 current Aggie educators working in public schools across the state.

About the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD)

The College of Education and Human Development at Texas A&M University has a history of producing the highest number of certified teachers in bilingual education, special education, and STEM-related fields in the state of Texas. In 2016, over 900 Aggies were certified to teach – the largest of any public higher-education institution in the state. Texas A&M ranks first in Math and Science, English Language Arts and Reading and General Elementary teachers and is also ranked in the Top 10 for Bilingual Education and Special Education. Aggie educators are working in 742 school districts in all 20 regions of the state in 207 counties.