VATFACS INSTITUTE

Rubric-based assessment is common across applied and skill-based classrooms, yet teachers often interpret and implement rubrics differently in practice. This session explores how teacher perceptions shape the use of rubric-based evaluation and how those decisions influence clarity, consistency, and student learning. Drawing on current research in assessment and applied education, participants will examine how structured criteria and professional judgment intersect in real classrooms. Practical strategies will be shared to help teachers refine rubric design, improve alignment with instructional goals, and strengthen assessment practices across Family & Consumer Sciences and career-focused programs.

Related Courses:
Virginia Teachers for Tomorrow I (19151-I/9062)
Virginia Teachers for Tomorrow II (19151-II/9072)
Early Childhood, Education, and Services I (19153-I/8285)
Early Childhood, Education, and Services II (19153-II/8286)
Nutrition and Wellness (19253-36/8229)
Introduction to Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation (16001-36/8259)
Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation II (16999-II/8203)

This hands-on session features game-show-style trivia (Financial Feud!) you can bring straight into your classroom, plus a wide array of free Federal Reserve Education resources that take you beyond the textbook for personal finance and college & career readiness content. Join us for fun, prizes, and free resources!

This introductory session helps educators confidently begin using ChatGPT as a classroom tool. Participants will learn what ChatGPT is, how it works, and practical ways it can save time and enhance instruction. The focus is on beginner-friendly applications: generating lesson ideas, creating assessments, differentiating instruction, drafting parent communication, and brainstorming classroom activities.

This professional development session equips Educators Rising advisors with the tools and inspiration to build strong, purpose-driven chapters. Participants will get a full overview of competitive events—categories, preparation strategies, scoring, and tips for moving students from classroom to competition.
The session also covers the Virginia Educators Rising conference (timelines, registration, student prep) and advancing to nationals, with guidance on planning, funding, and supporting students through the process.
Beyond competitions, attendees will explore community service initiatives that strengthen chapters and reinforce the mission of developing future educators—projects aligned with school needs that promote literacy, mentorship, and leadership.
Advisors will leave with actionable strategies, ready-to-use ideas, and a clear roadmap for building a chapter powered by purpose.

Teaching is more than a profession—it's a lived narrative shaped by pivotal moments, hard lessons, quiet victories, and opportunities that nearly unfolded. This reflective session invites educators to examine their teaching chronicles and recognize how those experiences have shaped their leadership voice, confidence, and decision-making.
Through guided reflection, participants will identify defining moments from their careers and learn to transform them into intentional leadership practices. Rather than leaving the past behind, educators will claim their story as a source of strength and clarity—and use it as a catalyst for growth, vision, and meaningful leadership.