Teachers mold minds and shape lives, but far too often they lack the resources and support they deserve. In light of the past year, WGU Indiana looked to launch its #WGULovesTeachers campaign to share its newfound appreciation for this valued profession. 

The 2020-21 school year affected teachers and all supporting roles in education in new ways, as schools at all levels adapted to virtual learning, minimized (or canceled) school activities and more. These burdens were only added to an already challenging profession, and it was WGU Indiana’s special obligation to recognize teachers a little extra this year.

While the university’s appreciation spanned the nation, our Indiana team alone provided thousands of school supplies—from markers to glue sticks to No. 2 pencils—to Indiana nonprofits such as Teachers' Treasures and the Bartholomew County School Supply Assistance Program through United Way of Bartholomew County. In addition, 750 Indiana teachers and schools were gifted kits consisting of additional supplies (such as pencils, rulers, post-its and more), a single or a classroom set of the book “I Am Enough” by Grace Byers and scholarship information. A few school districts who benefitted from donations include Indianapolis Public Schools, Merrillville Community School Corporation and Bartholomew County School District.

WGU Indiana’s Teachers College proudly graduates hundreds of students each year—with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education—helping develop our next generation of educators. Campaign donations were paired with the WGU Loves Teachers Scholarship, which offers $4,000 in scholarship dollars to aspiring and growing teachers.

Education is a pillar of our future generations, and teachers play a pivotal role in providing support, growth and knowledge to our learners. The inaugural #WGULovesTeachers campaign served as a way to give back to those who help nurture students day in and day out. WGU Indiana looks forward to expanding its reach and recognition of teachers well beyond 2021.