VACTE Educator Circles:
Conversations that Shape Practice
VACTE Educator Circles are a virtual series designed to bring together stakeholders across Virginia to explore timely and transformative topics in teacher preparation and educational practice. Hosted by the Virginia Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (VACTE), these sessions foster collaborative dialogue, showcase innovative strategies, and spotlight real-world applications that are shaping the future of teaching and learning.
Each Educator Circle features:
Educator-led discussions on emerging trends and challenges
Practical insights from educators at colleges, universities, and preK-12 schools
Interactive sharing among participants to exchange ideas and experiences
Resources and strategies to support educators across settings
Whether you're a faculty member, administrator, or practitioner, Educator Circles offer a welcoming space to engage in meaningful conversations that elevate practice and inspire innovation. Sessions are open to all, and registration is free.
VACTE Educator Circles are open to any member of your organization who wishes to participate. You are welcome to share the registration information with colleagues who may be interested in attending. Please note that sessions are not recorded.
Join us as we explore the evolving landscape of education—one conversation at a time.
Practice Before the Classroom: Using Simulations and AI to Prepare Future Educators
November 13, 12:00pm EST
Discussion Topics:
How do we ensure that AI-supported simulations supplement authentic clinical experiences rather than replace meaningful interactions with K–12 students, teachers, and families?
What barriers might prevent Virginia EPPs from implementing AI-supported simulations?
If you could give every teacher candidate one opportunity to practice a challenging teaching situation in a safe simulated environment before entering the classroom, what would you have them practice and why?
How could EPPs determine whether simulation experiences are improving candidate readiness?
Supplemental Reading:
Previous Educator Circles
Materials from previous sessions are available after each session. It is VACTE’s policy to not record the sessions to ensure the greatest degree of comfort for individual participants to share diverse perspectives. You may click the link below to access PDFs of the presentations.