FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Elgin, IL – October 24, 2024 – Judson University’s Department of Education hosted its annual Interview Night, formerly known as “Mock Interview Night,” on October 23, 2024. This event, part of the Senior Seminar that goes with Student Teaching, provided eight graduating seniors with an exclusive opportunity to connect with school administrators actively seeking to hire talented educators.
The Department of Education (DOE) at Judson University has built strong relationships with school districts in the region, resulting in a highly anticipated event where administrators from five districts, represented by nine leaders, came to interview Judson’s seniors. The shift from mock interviews to real job offers reflects the trust and demand for Judson graduates, as administrators now look forward to recruiting directly from this event.
This year’s Interview Night was a yet another success, with one senior leaving with multiple job offers and others encouraged by the range of choices to begin their teaching careers. “It is evident that Judson is preparing students to collaborate with colleagues, communicate with families, and deliver instruction that supports student learning,” said Jeron Shelton, a Judson graduate and Principal of McKinley Elementary School in U-46. “The candidates I interviewed had a passion for teaching and could articulate their “why”. I was impressed with their experience working with students from diverse backgrounds and their understanding of how to support student growth.”
Administrators were impressed with the caliber of Judson students, including Mark Moore, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources in School District U-46, who shared his enthusiasm: “I am impressed with the ways that the Judson students I interviewed are preparing to enter our teaching profession and look forward to seeing them succeed next year in their own classrooms.”
Beyond the formal interviews, several Judson graduates now in leadership roles, including Matt Langton, Principal at Carpentersville Middle School in D300, stayed afterward to engage in a meaningful discussion with students about the teaching profession. This unique opportunity for conversations to happen sets Judson University’s event apart from larger college job fairs, offering students personalized feedback in a welcoming atmosphere.
Judson’s ongoing commitment to producing highly skilled, passionate educators was evident throughout the evening, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended. “As a Judson graduate from the doctoral program, I found it promising to see young teacher candidates trained by Judson who have such positive energy, optimism, and potential,” says Dr. Erik Borne, of Indian Creek High School in District 425. “I hope they will persevere through the challenges, continue to learn throughout all of their long careers, and–like I do–reflect fondly on how their Judson experience set them up for success.”
You can visit https://www.judsonu.edu/academics/education-department/ for further information about Judson University’s Department of Education and their innovative programs.
About Judson University Judson University, a Christian institution offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, is dedicated to “shaping lives that shape the world.” Located in Elgin, Illinois, Judson prepares students to make a difference through their careers and communities, equipping them with skills and experiences that foster personal and professional growth.