Road to Teaching Conference 2025

On Saturday, November 22, 2025, Santa Ana College will host the 29th Annual Road to Teaching Conference presented by SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union. Tickets are available for an affordable price of $10, which includes a light breakfast, lunch, conference tote, and access to all scheduled conference activities. This year we are pleased to offer a limited number of sponsored (no cost) tickets (see below for more information).

This conference is open to all high school, community college, university, and credential students interested in a career in teaching. We are excited to announce that this year’s keynote speaker will be Megan Lee, 2026 Orange County Teacher of the Year

Below is her short bio:

Megan Lee, 2026 Orange County Teacher of the Year, is an innovative educator whose work reflects a deep commitment to students, families, and the broader school community. Born in Southern California and raised in her early years in Singapore, Megan’s earliest lessons came from her grandmother, Popo, who instilled in her the proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” That philosophy has guided her career, shaping her belief that every child thrives when supported by a caring, collaborative community.

Megan Lee grew up in Southern California and began her higher education at Irvine Valley College before earning a Bachelor’s in Liberal Studies from California State University, Fullerton (CSUF). She continued at CSUF to complete her teaching credential, a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, and most recently earned her preliminary administrative credential.Megan began as an upper elementary teacher at a Title 1 school. Currently, Megan teaches Transitional Kindergarten (TK) as part of the Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) initiative. Through multisensory strategies, hands-on literacy and math lessons, and intentional teaching of social-emotional skills, Megan prepares her students to engage confidently and be leaders.At the heart of Megan’s philosophy is the belief that education is most powerful when it is relational, inclusive, and reflective of a strong community. Through her innovative classroom practices, commitment to students, and advocacy for family engagement, she ensures that every child is valued and empowered to embrace lifelong learning. Megan’s work exemplifies how intentional instruction, community partnerships, and high expectations can transform not only classrooms, but the broader communities they serve. She hopes the next generation of teachers will continue to cultivate a community of learners that inspires growth and helps every child reach their full potential.

The purpose of this conference is to encourage students to enter and continue in the field of teaching. Students will be able to attend several workshops and learn from experienced educators and current teachers in the field.

Below are some of the many workshop topics we are planning to offer during the conference:

• Pathways to Teaching for Students interested in Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Classroom
• Student Engaging and Classroom Management
• New and Veteran Teachers Panel
• Landing a Teaching Job

For more information visit our conference website: www.sac.edu/rttc

Priority will be given to Santa Ana College students.

If cost is a factor for your participation in the Road to Teaching Conference, please complete this brief form to be considered for a sponsored (no cost) ticket prior to purchasing a ticket through this Eventbrite page.

RTTC Sponsor Ticket Request: https://form.jotform.com/222685405062049

Info: Our staff will help you check in for our conference by scanning your Eventbrite ticket. We encourage you to arrive on time. Afterwards, mingle with other conference attendees as you enjoy coffee, tea, and pastries from Paradise Bakery (first come, first serve).

Info: Dr. Steve Bautista of the Santa Ana College Center for Teacher Education will kick off our conference alongside Nydia Gosman from SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union. Please join us for this warm welcome and important conference overeview.

Info: Sarai Vaca will share her inspiring story with us all. The keynote address will be followed by a brief opportunity for Q&A.

Info: Choose from a number of amazing workshops presented by current teachers and educators. Space may be limited, so please arrive early.

Info: Visit tables representing various local universities, school districts, and organizations of interest to aspiring educators. Gain valuable information and get your questions answered!

Info: Enjoy a delicious lunch from Paradise Bakery as you network and mingle with other conference attendees and aspiring educators!

Info: Choose from a number of amazing workshops presented by current teachers and educators. Space may be limited, so please arrive early.

Info: Choose from a number of amazing workshops presented by current teachers and educators. Space may be limited, so please arrive early.

Info: All attendees will receive a Certificate of Participation upon completion of our conference evaluation. There's also a few surprises in store for some lucky participants!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Santa Ana College, 1530 West 17th Street, Santa Ana, United States