8:30–9:00 AM
Arrive + Connect
Registration + Light Breakfast
Get checked in, grab a bite, connect with fellow attendees, and explore resources from our partners.
9:00–9:30 AM
Welcome
Welcome + Housekeeping
We’ll open the day, get grounded in what’s ahead, and make sure everyone knows how to move through the Summit experience.
9:35–9:50 AM
Set The Tone
Opening Remarks
A powerful welcome into the purpose, urgency, and possibility of the day ahead.
10:00–11:15 AM
Research
The Reality Behind The Research
Black Parents’ Experiences with Special Education in Virginia
A presentation of the Advocating While Black™ research exploring the lived experiences of Black parents navigating special education systems across Virginia.
11:20 AM–12:20 PM
Conversation
Where Do We Go From Here? The Panel
A moderated response to the research findings, bringing educators, administrators, policymakers, parents, and community leaders into the conversation around what must change—and what better can look like.
12:25–1:30 PM
Connect
Networking Lunch
Eat. Connect. Visit vendors. Meet the people doing the work.
1:35–2:00 PM
Practice
The Response Room
Interactive Role-Play Advocacy Lab
Move from knowing to doing through live scenarios that help attendees practice the language, questions, and next moves advocacy requires.
2:05–2:45 PM
Activation
The Advocacy Labs — Round 1
Hands-on activation experiences designed to turn advocacy concepts into tools attendees can actually use.
2:50–3:30 PM
Activation
The Advocacy Labs — Round 2
Continue exploring interactive stations, resources, and practical strategies built for life beyond the Summit.
3:35–4:00 PM
Collective Action
We Move Together
A closing experience rooted in reflection, collective commitment, music, and joy—sending us out connected, energized, and ready to move together.