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Washington Week 2026

June 1 – 3

Co-Sponsors

This one-of-a-kind event brought together educator preparation leaders—including members, state association leaders, Holmes Scholars, students, deans, K-12 leaders, and faculty—to engage directly with federal policymakers and advocate for a stronger educator workforce.

Washington Week took place June 1–3, 2026, at the Yours Truly Hotel in Washington, D.C. The conference program combined inspiring keynote speakers with sessions tailored for NCTR members, Deans for Impact members, AACTE members, and students. It also featured a State Leaders Institute for AACTE-affiliated state organization leaders and dedicated policy meetings for Holmes Scholars and other students. All participants engaged in advocacy training, culminating in Day on the Hill visits with their congressional delegations.

View the Program

Washington Week 2026 Keynote Speakers

Washington Week 2026 will feature a range of federal and congressional leaders, offering attendees an important opportunity to engage with voices connected to national policy and funding conversations that impact educator preparation.

Featured Speakers

Who Attended?

NCTR and Deans for Impact Members: Thanks to a new partnership among AACTE, NCTR, and Deans for Impact, members of all three organizations came together at Washington Week to advocate on behalf of educator preparation.
State Affiliate Leaders: The State Leaders Institute for officers of AACTE-affiliated state organizations focused on current state policy issues affecting educator preparation, effective association leadership, and strategic coalition building.
Holmes Scholars and Other Students: Programs for Holmes Scholars and other students included visits with key education leaders in their offices on Monday, June 1.
K–12 Leaders: Building an effective educator workforce pipeline required strong partnerships with K–12 education leaders. K–12 leaders attended and advocated alongside their higher education partners.
Deans and Faculty: AACTE, NCTR, and Deans for Impact members and non-members alike gained valuable insights to help navigate the public policy challenges facing educators, educator preparation programs, and students.