Nationally recognized M.Ed. teachers connect with Gettysburg students

In September, the Gettysburg College Office of Teacher Education and Certification and the M.Ed. in Educational Design and Inquiry program welcomed nationally recognized educators Patricia Jackson and Ben Hodge to campus for a full day of teaching, conversation, and community engagement. The event promoted the authors’ recent launch of their new book “Ban This!” and their commitment to equity in education.

Jackson and Hodge, both acclaimed teachers at Central York High School, have become prominent voices in the national dialogue on book bans. Their newly released book chronicles the story of how teachers, students, and community members in York, Pennsylvania, united to challenge censorship and reassert the importance of inclusive education. Their work not only reflects their classroom expertise but also the courage and leadership that they bring as new faculty members in Gettysburg College’s M.Ed. program, where they will teach the course Equity in Education.

Throughout the day, Jackson and Hodge visited multiple classes across disciplines, engaging directly with students in small-group discussions in collaboration with Educational Studies Prof. Divonna Stebick, director of the Office of Teacher Education and Certification; Erin Clark, assistant director of the Office of Teacher Education and Certification; Psychology Prof. Erin Clark, assistant director of the Office of Teacher Education and Certification; Africana Studies Chair Hakim Mohandas Amani Williams; and Adjunct Instructor Lori Althoff. Over lunch, they also connected with undergraduate and graduate education students, offering insight into their teaching and advocacy.

The day culminated in a book launch event at The Junction in the College Union Building, where undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, school district partners, and community members gathered for a lively evening of conversation, refreshments, and reflection. Attendees had the opportunity to hear Jackson and Hodge’s story firsthand, purchase signed copies of their new book, and join in discussions about the future of equitable education. By bringing together nationally recognized educators, students, and local partners, the event underscored the depth of expertise and engagement that distinguishes Gettysburg College’s M.Ed. program.

“This event highlighted the kinds of inspiring and accomplished teachers who are drawn to our M.Ed. program, the themes and approaches our M.Ed. program is built around, and the connections between our graduate and undergraduate education programs,” said Clark. “Most importantly, it showcased the meaningful ways our education students—both undergraduate and graduate—are preparing to make a real impact in their schools and communities.”

Become an advocate in education and apply for the M.Ed. program in Educational Design and Inquiry at Gettysburg College.  

 
Posted: 09/22/25