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Overview

You are invited to join rural education leaders from across Virginia for two days of connection, collaboration, and innovation focused on rural school divisions.

Throughout the conference, you will have the opportunity to:

Network with fellow rural education leaders

  • Gain practical strategies and innovative approaches tailored to rural settings
  • Share successes and challenges with colleagues who understand the distinctive strengths of rural schools
  • Explore new ideas to enhance opportunities for students, staff, and communities
  • Your leadership, insights, and experiences are invaluable, and we hope you will join us in this important space for connection and collaboration!

Why Attend?

  • Network with leaders who understand the rural education landscape
  • Share challenges and successes unique to rural communities
  • Gain practical strategies and fresh ideas tailored to rural needs
  • Collaborate on ways to enhance opportunities for students and educators
  • Engage in sessions that uplift and empower rural voices

Who is the conference for?

  • Superintendents and Division-Level Leaders
  • Principals and School Administrators
  • Assistant Principals/Instructional Leaders
  • Teacher Leaders
  • Instructional Coaches / Academic Specialists
  • Counselors and Student Support Staff
  • Family and Community Engagement Coordinators

What topics will be covered in the breakout sessions?
This symposium will highlight resources, strategies, and supports designed specifically for rural educators and school leaders. Sessions will address leadership development for school and division administrators, approaches that elevate student engagement, and methods to strengthen conceptual understanding across content areas. Participants will explore innovative solutions that promote on-time graduation, improve attendance, and reduce dropout rates. The event will also emphasize effective parent and family engagement practices, as well as mental health supports, including Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), to ensure the well‑being and academic success of all students.

Fee Information

The conference registration fee is FREE for school leader attendees.

How can I pay for this conference?

Professional development is an allowable activity with Title V, Part B funds. The cost of the conference registration is free.

Lodging, mileage, and meals not provided by the conference can be reimbursed with Title V funds or other Title funds.

Location Information

Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center

710 S. Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 (540) 564-0200

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Enroll Now - Select a section to enroll in

Section Title
Rural and Low-Income Conference
Type
Discussion
Days
T, W
Time
9:00AM to 3:00PM
Dates
Jun 16, 2026 to Jun 17, 2026
Schedule and Location
Contact Hours
12.0
Location
  • Off Campus
Fee(s)
Fees starting at $0.00

Section Notes

The conference includes:

  • Meals
  • Breakfast and Lunch on Tuesday
  • Breakfast and Lunch on Wednesday
  • Conference materials

Lodging:
Hotel Madison is offering rooms at the current government per diem rate for this conference until May 23, 2026 or until all available rooms have been booked.

The discounted per diem rate is available using the reservation link or by calling the hotel directly and let them know you are with the Rural and Low-Income Symposium. 

The discounted per diem rate is available using the reservation link below  or by calling the hotel directly ((540) 564-0200) and let them know you are with the Rural and Low-Income Symposium. 

Booking link: https://reservations.travelclick.com/110365?groupID=5172451

Cancellation Policy: Another person may be substituted at any time for this program. Please contact us at 540-231-5182 or e-mail cpeinfo@vt.edu to request a substitution. In the unlikely event that this program is canceled or postponed due to insufficient enrollments or unforeseen circumstances, the university cannot be held responsible for any other expenses, including cancellation or change charges assessed by airlines, hotels, travel agencies, or other organizations.

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