VEA 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.

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.

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.

• 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!

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!