Call for Proposals

This call invites teacher preparation faculty, doctoral students, and preK-12 educators to submit proposals for conversations and workshops for the Spring 2026 Conference. This event fosters collaboration among stakeholders in teacher education and K-12 practice, offering a platform to share innovative ideas, research, and strategies for strengthening teacher recruitment and retention in Virginia. We are seeking workshops, presentations, and facilitated discussions that explore 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.

Proposals are due Friday, January 9 at 5:00pm.

Fall 2025 Conference

Pathways Forward: Advancing Teacher Education through Research and Innovation

Conference topics addressed Addressing Current Challenges in the Field, Preparation through Evidence-Based Practices, and Strategic Partnerships.

Spring 2025 Conference

Empowering Educators and Enhancing Collaboration

Conference topics addressed Advancing Accreditation and Program Quality, Transforming Literacy Education, and Fostering Collaboration through Special Interest Groups.

Fall 2024 Conference

Bridging Theory and Practice: Insights from Educator Preparation Research

The conference theme showcased the latest findings and innovations in the field of educator preparation. Conference topics addressed how our teacher education programs, structures, and pedagogies (e.g., clinical experience structures, teaching methods, school-university partnerships, course designs, etc.) are valuable and have an impact on P-12 schools, universities, and community partners.