The OBU School of Education to Host “Discover Teaching” Event for High School Students

September 19, 2025

High school students interested in exploring a career in education will have the chance to experience teaching firsthand at Oklahoma Baptist University’s “Discover Teaching” event Nov. 4.

The Henry F. McCabe Family School of Education will host the gathering for 9th through 12th-grade students on the OBU campus from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This event is funded by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education Teacher Education Grant. It is free, and lunch is provided, but registration is required, and space is limited.

The program will begin with a keynote address from Rebecka Peterson, the 2023 National Teacher of the Year. Peterson teaches high school mathematics at Union High School in Tulsa and is known for her passion for storytelling in the classroom.

During her years in education, Peterson has taught courses ranging from intermediate algebra to Advanced Placement calculus. She began teaching at the collegiate level before moving to Union High School in 2012. A proud immigrant of Swedish-Iranian descent, she draws from her own experiences to create inclusive classrooms where students feel valued and supported.

Peterson is also widely recognized for her contributions to the “One Good Thing” blog, where she has shared more than 1,400 posts highlighting moments of joy from her classroom. As National Teacher of the Year, she has focused on elevating the voices of educators across the country, emphasizing the creativity, autonomy and purpose teaching provides.

Following Peterson’s keynote, students will participate in three rounds of interactive breakout sessions led by OBU faculty and preservice teachers. Topics include early childhood education, elementary reading, music, art, theater, STEM, English, special education and secondary math. Teachers attending with their students may also take part in “Teacher Talk and Treats,” a professional conversation session.

The day will conclude with a campus scavenger hunt and closing session.

Annie Keehn, chair of the OBU School of Education, said the event is designed to inspire the next generation of educators.

“Discover Teaching at OBU is about helping students see the joy and purpose of teaching,” Keehn said. “We want them to imagine the impact they could have on the lives of others, just like their favorite teachers have impacted them.”

Students will also learn about financial support opportunities for future educators in Oklahoma, including the Inspired to Teach Scholarships and the TEACH Grant.

Keehn encourages students who are considering a future in teaching to attend.

“If you enjoy working with kids and want to discover how you can shape future generations,” she said, “this event is for you.”

Register here.

For more about the Henry F. McCabe School of Education, visit okbu.edu/education.