From tutoring first graders to leading his own classroom, Thomas Skiendziel’s Mizzou experience shaped him into a confident future educator. Now a graduating senior, he’s ready to bring his passion for learning to a third‑grade classroom.

Rushing, a senior in the University of Missouri College of Education & Human Development, is completing her elementary student‑teaching internship in a fourth‑grade classroom at Madison Crossing Elementary School in Mississippi.

A $1.25 million federal grant is creating an opportunity for future special educators and behavior analysts to earn a fully funded master’s degree while preparing to meet one of the most urgent needs in schools today.

Show Me Research Week showcases student research from across Mizzou. This year, 28 students from the College of Education and Human Development shared their work. Read what two presenters had to say.

The College of Education and Human Development brought together faculty, staff, students and partners for Teacher Career Exploration Day on March 19, welcoming nearly 100 middle and high school students from across mid-Missouri to explore teaching as a career.

The Education, Leadership, and Policy Analysis (ELPA) department brought its graduate students and faculty to the Missouri Capitol for a full day of direct engagement with the people shaping education across the state. The visit offered a clear view of how policy takes shape and how future leaders can influence it.

Through the ShowMe Connection project, rural Missouri residents can learn practical strategies to build stronger, healthier social networks.

For Sarah Mitchell, the study of families has always been about understanding people and the relationships that shape their lives. Through her research, teaching and mentorship, Mitchell examines how identity, relationships and social experiences influence family life and well-being.

A three-time Mizzou graduate, Bradley Ekwerekwu is the recipient of the College of Education & Human Development’s Mid-Career Alumni Achievement Award, which recognizes alumni who have made significant contributions to their professions and communities.

The Mizzou Alumni Association and the Alumni Association Student Board recently named recipients of the 2026 Mizzou 18 and Mizzou ’39 awards, which recognize outstanding University of Missouri students. Two Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) students, Jarri Brooks and Jasmine M. Godwin, were honored at this year’s awards ceremony.