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Washington State University
College of Education

AFTOC Overview

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The Alhadeff Future Teachers of Color (AFTOC) program was established in response to the under-representation of ethnic minorities in the field of education. This includes individuals who wish to become teachers, principals, superintendents, and educational association or instructional leaders. The program is supported by the James Taylor Future Teachers of Color Endowment.

By providing support services as well as mentoring and networking opportunities for multicultural students, we hope to help them succeed in their programs and then inspire others to follow in their footsteps. Each year, we select two certified undergraduate education students to serve as ambassadors who are involved in recruitment and program planning.  This ensures that our program is relevant and meaningful to the students we are trying to reach.  The ambassadors receive scholarships for their efforts.

All participating students have the opportunity to take part in the activities listed below.  In addition to these activities, we are planning other fun and informative events, so we invite you sign up for our event notification contact list!

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Annual conference

AFTOC hosts an annual conference in late February dedicated to social justice in education. More information can be found on the main AFTOC page.

Teacher education information session

This information session is held at the beginning of each semester and provides students with detailed information on requirements for admission to the Teacher Education Program as well as information on services available to assist them in successfully transitioning into the program.

Professional development activities

Student participants will have the opportunity to take part in professional development programming relevant to their educational needs.

Program enrollment

For more information or to become involved in the AFTOC Program, send an email to aftoc@wsu.edu, follow us on Facebook: Facebook.com/AFTOC and Twitter: @WSU_FTOC or stop by the College of Education Office of Student Services, Educaiton Addition 316, to fill out a short information card and get on the mailing list.

More info

  • The AFTOC was founded in 1994, as the Future Teachers of Color.
  • The program’s initial efforts included the FTOC Conference, where 176 high school and community college students attended.
  • The university’s Future Cougars of Color evolved from FTOC.
    • Expanded from education to all areas.
    • 80-85 percent participants enroll and receive $1,000-5,000 in scholarships.
  • Several scholarships have increased these efforts.
  • Due to the longtime support of Marleen and Kenny Alhadeff, the FTOC was renamed in 2014 to be the Alhadeff Future Teachers of Color.