VEA’s Summit on Educators of Color – Intent vs Impact: C.A.R.E. – Communication, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence will be held February 21-22, 2025. The location will be the Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa/Short Pump, Richmond, Virginia. The target audience for this summit is local VEA affiliates, Pre-K-12 teachers, education support professionals and administrators, college and university students, higher education faculty, staff and administrators, human resource personnel, local school boards, and community organizations.
The summit aims to foster a collaborative and supportive environment that empowers educators, administrators, students, parents, and community members to work together in pursuit of racial and social justice in our schools. By focusing on impactful communication, advocacy, and the creation of culturally affirming schools, the summit aims to cultivate care within educational communities. We prioritize educator wellness and mental health, recognizing the importance of supporting those who shape our students’ futures. With a lens focused on racial and social justice, we seek to inspire excellence by examining policies and practices that can enhance our schools while highlighting areas that require improvement to ensure equity for all. We strive for an educational landscape rooted in respect, understanding, and collective action. This summit is dedicated to elevating the voices, experiences, and leadership of educators of color as they work with co-conspirators to create more inclusive and equitable schools.
This year we will feature the Educators of Color (EOC) Choir to provide inspiring musical selections during the summit. On Friday, there will be an HBCU panel discussion of funding and the need for support for educator prep programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU), politicians sponsoring bills in the General Assembly, and any work of the state to provide equitable resources to school districts. You’ll have the opportunity to network during our Speed Networking session and then on to some fun with the EOC Dance. Come dressed in all black to party, dance, and network some more.
On Saturday morning you can join in for an optional Sunrise Yoga Session to learn gentle yoga flows that release tension, breathing techniques to manage stress, and mindfulness practices for educators. You’ll also get to be a part of the plenary session where you’ll engage in learning about the history of the Virginia Teachers Association and participate in an illumination ceremony. A Wellness Room will be available on Saturday to provide a warm and calming environment. Whether you need to take a moment for yourself due to a topic or discussion that may cause intense emotions or if you just need time for some self-care to rest, breathe, and relax, this space will be open for you. Sponsors and Vendors will be on-site each day sharing resources and opportunities for engagement.
*Registration Deadline is January 24, 2025
