Three Generations of Career and Technical Education Teachers Attend Idaho State University

Elizabeth Danielson, who is now pursuing a secondary education degree with an endorsement in family and consumer sciences (FCS) at Idaho State University, is proud to soon be part of a legacy comprising three generations of career and technical education (CTE) teachers.

Danielson’s mother, Teresa Danielson, a certified FCS teacher with over 15 years of classroom experience, now serves as the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America Manager at the Idaho Division of CTE. Elizabeth Danielson’s grandmother, Rebecca Webster, is a business education teacher (BED) at Thunder Ridge High School in Idaho Falls. Together, both women significantly impacted Elizabeth Danielson’s choice in becoming a teacher. As ISU graduates themselves, Elizabeth Danielson credits her family for inspiring her to pursue secondary education and become a Bengal.

As a student at the ISU College of Education, Elizabeth Danielson works closely with Dr. Brenda Jacobsen, a clinical professor for FCS and CTE, who has helped her since she was in high school. When asked of Danielson and her achievements, Dr. Jacobsen said, “She is a laser-focused rock star; she researched our catalog, planned her courses to include dual enrollment, and entered ISU with enough credits to be considered a sophomore.”

Elizabeth Danielson attends ISU entirely online, and she noted that having the opportunity to be a virtual student while also working has allowed her to further her education in a way that is right for her.

“My program is great, and I love that I know two of my teachers personally because I get to work and learn from people I’ve always looked up to,” Elizabeth Danielson said. “Dr. Jacobsen continues to work with me and is a great resource.”

Throughout her time at ISU, Elizabeth Danielson has learned practical concepts that will prepare her well for the future ahead. “Classes in the secondary education program are designed to guide students to succeed in the field,” she shared. “They’re straightforward and teach you what you need to know to succeed.”

Danielson is eager to work as a secondary education teacher once she graduates, as she believes that high school students are in a crucial phase of their lives just before college. Through a teaching approach that offers guidance and support, Danielson plans to help make the process easier for students graduating high school.

“High schoolers are truly trying to find themselves in the adult world,” she shared. “The FCS curriculum ties into that so much with helping students discover what they want to do in the world. It has real-world career pathways that students can travel down if they want to.”

As a future teacher pursuing a program akin to her loved ones, Danielson said, “I always knew I would be the one to continue the legacy of CTE teachers in my family. As a student, I attended Business Professionals of America (BPA) and Family, Consumer, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) events. I saw my mom and grandma's impact on their communities, schools, and students. I wanted to be just like them and be in the CTE world.”

Elizabeth Danielson says she is grateful for those who have supported her on her journey at ISU, including her mother, grandmother, and mentor in the program, Dr. Brenda Jacobsen. She is set to graduate in 2027. 

To learn more about the family and consumer sciences program or the career and technical education program at the College of Education, please visit isu.edu/olp.