Nearly 400 teacher candidates received a pin Friday, Nov. 1, as they were welcomed into the teacher profession and prepare for their first practicum placement.

Through presentations from the Ontario Teachers Federation, students learned about the meaning of being an associate member, services and resources available to them, as well as their legal and ethical responsibilities.

During the ceremony, students were asked to pledge their commitment to uphold the values and principles embedded in the Educator's Oath — an oath taken from the Teaching Profession Act.

Education students Myah Fortuna and Soleen DePape highlighted the pinning ceremony as a significant milestone in their journey toward becoming educators.

“Transitioning from being a student to a professional has strengthened my commitment to helping every student reach their full potential. I feel incredibly fortunate to share this moment with my colleagues who share the same passion and commitment to education,” DePape said.

“It was a memorable day celebrating this accomplishment with friends and future educators, and something that I will cherish forever,” echoed Fortuna.

In addition to the 400 newly inducted teacher candidates, another 300 teacher candidates will begin their fall practicum placements at the end of the month, entering schools across Windsor-Essex and throughout the province.

Photos from the event can be found on the Faculty of Education Facebook page.