ACTE's National Work-Based Learning Conference 2026

This workshop will explain various ways Teacher Preparation and Early Childhood Education instructors can place their students into early childhood, elementary, and middle school classrooms for hands-on training. We will explore ways to embed practicum experiences in classrooms at various ages and grade levels and with specialists such as speech therapists, occupational therapists, and family consumer science, art, music, and physical education teachers. Attendees will learn about the effectiveness of paired placements.  We will discuss ways for students to collaborate with cooperating teachers to create, implement, and reflect on lessons.  Participants will leave with a toolbox of strategies that they can use to build high-quality grow-your-own (GYO) and CTE Education and training programs.