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VEA Sparks

You like fun? You like free? Then VEA’s Sparks weekend is for you!

Sparks is a gathering of educators who have less than five years of experience in our public schools. We figure you may not know much about the VEA, either, and we’d like to show you a fun weekend and bring you up to speed on what the Association does and how you can play a more active role in it.

What we’re after is helping you make connections with peers from around Virginia while having a blast, too. And did we mention it’s FREE?

When: February 28 – March 1, 2020
Where: Virginia Crossings Resort, Glen Allen, VA

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sparks?

A weekend retreat for VEA members who are new to Virginia’s public schools and who have little or no experience with the VEA.

What is the purpose?

To make a positive connection with newer members. Through Sparks, participants learn skills and network with other members that help them in their profession, while gaining a better understanding of their Association.

What happens at Sparks?

The VEA Sparks program is adaptable to what you need and want. Sparks lets you make discoveries about your fellow educators and your Association on your own, related to your own priorities. You make those discoveries while learning about the issues relevant to you.

What makes Sparks different?
  • We strive to have a diverse group of VEA Sparks participants to help build connections and create a climate in which you can feel comfortable having meaningful discussions around issues arising from individual differences in your professional lives.
  • We limit participation to VEA members who are new to Virginia’s schools and the Association so that we can help form bonds that will last for a full career. Sparks is a one-time only event. No repeat Sparkers!
  • We keep in touch with you after the initial VEA Sparks weekend is over. We emphasize that VEA is here to support you throughout your career.
  • We have fun. No advance agenda is provided. Participants benefit from group activities, networking, and time to relax!
Why do participants like VEA Sparks?

We focus on you. We listen to you. We create a safe environment for you to share scary issues. We help you understand that you are not the only one going through the perils of being new to this career. AND, we have fun!

Sparker Christine Melendez

“One of the main benefits I have seen so far from Sparks is the plethora of opportunities to get involved in your education Association at varying levels.”

 

At Sparks, educators new to the field make discoveries about their peers and their Union while learning about issues relevant to them. The weekend is marked by meaningful professional discussions, new friendships, and a thorough introduction to the VEA and how it’s essential to a successful career in education. On top of all that, Sparks is also both fun and free!

Sam Killion, Fredericksburg

Sparks gave me an opportunity to figure out that I could be a leader without having to be the loudest person. It allowed me to see that the association was not only about being the one in front, but also supporting those out in front.

DaVell Smith, Louisa

Sparks is revitalizing, encouraging, and most important, a fun-filled weekend of connecting with people like you from all over the state.

Maggie Gannon, Culpeper

“It was a laid-back and super-fun environment—the connections I made have been so valuable in helping me to find my voice and encouraging me to speak for others.”

Sparks 2019 Photos

Sparks 2019

Did You Know?

According to a poll conducted by Virginia Commonwealth University, 70% of Virginians say public schools do not have enough funding to meet their needs.

Take Action Now
  • Virginia Education Association
    116 South 3rd Street
    Richmond, VA 23219
    Tel: 804-648-5801 or 800-552-9554
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