Pre-Conference Workshop: Clinical Experiences
Wednesday, October 7, 1 - 4 pm
Building on conversations from the Clinical SIG Summer Work Session, this pre-conference workshop will provide dedicated time to review, compare, and discuss clinical evaluation tools and mentor teacher supports used across Virginia educator preparation programs. Participants will explore promising practices, identify common challenges, and collaborate on strategies to improve evaluation quality, mentor engagement, and candidate growth.
There is no additional fee for this pre-conference event, but registration is required.
Fall Registration is Open!
October 8-9, 2026
James Madison University, Harrisonburg, Virginia
Theme: “Teacher Education Forward: Innovation, Equity, Impact”
Hotel Information
Fairfield Inn and Suites Harrisonburg
1946 Medical Ave | (540) 433-9333
October 7th – 8th at a $110 rate. The cutoff date to make a reservation is September 16, 2026. Booking link.
Hampton Inn Harrisonburg - University
85 University Blvd | (540) 432-1111
October 7th – 8th at a $110 rate. The cutoff date to make a reservation is August 25, 2026. Booking link.
Hyatt Place Harrisonburg
1884 Evelyn Byrd Ave | (540) 417-1234
October 7th- 8th at a $110 rate. This rate includes breakfast. The cutoff date to make a reservation is September 7, 2026. Booking link.
All blocks of rooms are subject to availability. Please book early to ensure that you get a room at this rate.
We look forward to connecting with faculty, staff, P–12 partners, researchers, and practitioners to discuss innovative practices, research, and partnerships in educator preparation. The fall conference will highlight the following topics:
High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) and Evidence-Based Practice
Innovation in Educator Preparation
Equity, Access, and Inclusive Excellence
Partnership, Leadership, and Systems Change
Graduate students and P-12 educators are eligible for discounted registration rates. Early bird pricing for university faculty and staff ends August 31, 2026.
Keep an eye on our conference website for more information.
Recap: Spring 2026 Conference
Thank you for joining us for our spring 2026 conference! Workshops, presentations, and facilitated discussions explored the following themes:
Induction & Transition from Teacher Ed to Teaching: Explore effective strategies for connecting pre-service teacher preparation with induction programs to ensure a smooth and supportive transition into the classroom.
Teacher Experiences & Early-Career Supports: Highlight the lived experiences of early-career teachers and the supports that foster professional growth, resilience, and long-term retention.
Policy & Systems Perspectives: Examine the role of district, state, and institutional policies in shaping teacher recruitment, induction practices, and retention outcomes.
EPP Policies & Pathways: Discuss the pathways created by educator preparation programs and policies that facilitate teacher readiness and align with induction and retention goals.
Pre-Service Teacher Support to Thrive as Early-Career Educators: Identify practical approaches to equip pre-service teachers with the skills, mentoring, and resources necessary to thrive during their early years in the profession.
