Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) College of Education and Applied Human Sciences launched an innovative initiative to support graduates as they embark on their teaching careers. “Classroom in a Box” provides essential classroom supplies to new teachers, many of whom are the first in their families to graduate from college.
“Schools across Kentucky are filled with EKU Colonels, as we graduate more than 150 educators each year who fuel the teacher workforce,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “Teaching the next generation of leaders in Kentucky and beyond is one of the most impactful careers one could pursue. I’m proud of our graduates who are making a direct impact on our future and that EKU is helping teachers as they launch into this noble profession.”
The Kentucky Department of Education’s School Report Card reported a 22.5% teacher turnover rate for the 2023-24 school year. Recognizing the financial strain often faced by first-year educators, EKU aims to eliminate the barriers encountered when beginning a career in the field and further address the ongoing teacher shortage.
Notably, the unique Classroom in a Box initiative sets the College apart, underscoring a dedication to students and their success, even beyond graduation.
“Across the U.S., teachers spend about $250 annually on supplies for their students,” said Dr. Elizabeth Smith, dean of the College of Education and Applied Human Sciences. “With the help of College staff, faculty, alumni and friends, our future teachers will enter their classrooms with a head start on the supplies needed to support their students. Our graduates are highly prepared and ready to teach on day one—and now they have the supplies they need that first day, too!”
The program provides a box of classroom essentials, such as pencils, pens, markers and notebooks, given to new teachers when they graduate from EKU. For the December 2024 graduates, 27 education majors received a supply box, each accompanied by a heartfelt note from the donor who made it possible.
Brandy Blackburn, director of the Office of Professional Education Services, spearheaded the project. In collaboration with University Development and Alumni Engagement, donors engaged in funding the initiative—pursuing a shared vision of ensuring graduates have the resources they need to succeed in their first classrooms. With approximately 150 education graduates expected in the spring, the program requires additional fundraising efforts to meet the demand.
“Teachers often spend hundreds of dollars out of pocket to fulfill classroom needs,” Blackburn explained. “By addressing this burden, we’re not only supporting our graduates but also reinforcing the personal care and commitment our institution has for its students. We’re incredibly grateful for the enthusiastic support of our alumni and friends who have made this possible.”
As the program prepares for its spring fundraising campaign, Blackburn feels confident the generosity of alumni and friends will continue to drive the success of this initiative, helping to shape the future of education one classroom at a time. If you would like to donate, visit Colonel Community – Classroom in a Box.
By A’Mya Kendrick
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