Virtual Learning Communities

Virtual Learning Community in Autism

ACE-VLCAs bridge the gap between theory and application, to promote positive outcomes for autistic students. A learning community is a space where individuals come together to build knowledge and skills through collaboration. Through a blend of self-paced online activities and weekly Zoom sessions, you'll gain:

  • Expert-led interactive instruction on the EBP
  • Collaborative discussions on classroom implementation of strategies
  • Practical skills through hands-on tools and application activities
  • Guided reflection and problem solving
  • A network of passionate autism educators across the state!

Upcoming VLCAs:

  Title Dates
Early Childhood Virtual Learning Community: Environment

Join us for an interactive virtual learning community designed to empower early childhood educators in creating preschool classrooms that foster independence and engagement among young learners.

This four-session series provides practical and proactive strategies, resources, and collaborative opportunities to enhance the planning, implementation, and progress monitoring phases of establishing a supportive learning environment.

Spots are limited, so sign up soon to be part of this impactful learning experience!

Live Zoom Dates:
All are from 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm ET

  • Thursday, September 17, 2026
  • Thursday, September 24, 2026
  • Thursday, October 1, 2026
  • Thursday, October 8, 2026

We estimate 10 contact hours to complete this VLCA.

September 14 - October 9, 2026
Virtual Learning Community in Autism: Visual Supports

This four-week online series explores Visual Supports as an evidence-based practice (EBP) to help educators make a lasting impact on students with autism. Participants will learn how to identify, plan, implement, and evaluate Visual Supports to meet classroom and individual student needs.

The course combines self-paced activities with weekly Zoom sessions, fostering collaboration among professionals as they share insights, apply strategies, and build skills together.

Live Zoom Dates: 
All are from 3 pm - 4 pm ET

  • Tuesday, September 15, 2026
  • Tuesday, September 22, 2026
  • Tuesday, September 29, 2026
  • Tuesday, October 6, 2026

We estimate 10 contact hours to complete this VLCA.

September 14 - October 9, 2026
Early Childhood Virtual Learning Community in Autism: Communication

Looking to create a communication-rich environment that allows each and every child in your classroom to actively engage and participate in meaningful interactions?

 

This seven-week online series explores how to support learners with diverse communication abilities. It is suited for professionals who support young children with autism and related disabilities in early childhood settings in Virginia. The community combines self-paced activities with bi-weekly Zoom sessions, fostering collaboration among professionals as they share insights, apply strategies, and build skills together.

Spots are limited, so sign up soon to be part of this impactful learning experience!

Live Zoom Dates:
All are from 3 pm - 4:30 pm ET

  • Thursday, October 22, 2026
  • Thursday, November 5, 2026
  • Thursday, November 19, 2026
  • Thursday, December 3, 2026

We estimate 10 contact hours to complete this VLCA.

October 19 - December 4, 2026
Virtual Learning Community in Autism: Antecedent-Based Intervention

This four-week online series explores Antecedent-Based Intervention(ABI) as an evidence-based practice (EBP) to help educators make a lasting impact on students with autism. Participants will learn how to identify, plan, implement, and evaluate ABIs to meet classroom and individual student needs.

The course combines self-paced activities with weekly Zoom sessions, fostering collaboration among professionals as they share insights, apply strategies, and build skills together.

Live Zoom Dates:
All are from 3 pm - 4 pm ET

  • Tuesday, October 20, 2026
  • Tuesday, October 27, 2026
  • Tuesday, November 10, 2026
  • Tuesday, November 17, 2026

We estimate 10 contact hours to complete this VLCA.

October 19 - November 20, 2026

 

Can I earn recertification points for participation?

Points for educators working towards licensure renewal (recertification) may be awarded for completion of this activity. Certificates of completion will be sent to all individuals who successfully complete these hours, documenting participation and successful participation.

Is there a cost to participate?

There is no cost to participate for professionals and paraprofessionals in Virginia. At this time, we cannot accept registrations from individuals who do not work in the Commonwealth of Virginia's School Systems.

Who do I contact for more information?

Learning Community Leader: Teresa Cogar
Email: tlcogar@vcu.edu