do college reference letter have to be from teachers? or can they be from anyone?

Answer 1

The ones from the teachers are important, but something from someone who knows you well from an extracurricular activity, like volunteering, would be very good as well.

Answer 2

Colleges generally ask for 2 from teachers, if you have others that would be great too (as supplements), but you NEED two from teachers for most colleges. High School guidance couselors also have to write you a rec, but it's their job to do so.