Registration Open! Creating Connections to Shining Stars (CCSS) 2026

Description:

Creating Connections to Shining Stars is a collaborative effort between Virginia's Part C, Early Intervention and Part B, Early Childhood Special Education programs. The conference will focus on promoting and supporting the implementation of evidence-based practices in inclusive settings for infants, toddlers, and young children, both with and without disabilities.

Keynote Speaker: David and Jacob Raphael, Our Autism Story: A Father and Son Share their Journey of Discovery
Thirty years ago, Jacob Raphael was diagnosed on the autism spectrum at a highly-regarded child development center. Today, Jacob, a Georgia Hope Scholar who majored in Creative Writing and minored in Philosophy, and David, his father, are coauthoring a book on their experience together. Jacob and David will share their stories and what they have learned through this shared journey of hope and discovery.

Pre-Conference Sessions:

Intended Audience: Early Intervention (Birth to 3)

• HUGS: Coaching Caregivers to Support Emotional Competence
• Presented by: Dr. Sarah Sexton

Intended Audience: Early Childhood (2-5)

• Play, Communication, & Collaboration
• Presented by: Kathleen Wright, Kristy Hill, Adrienne Quarles-Smith, Matthew Newton

Intended Audience: Early Intervention, Early Childhood (Birth to 5)

• Sustaining Ourselves to Sustain Others: Integrating Self-Care and Emotional Intelligence to Support a Healthy, Resilient Early Childhood Workforce
• Presented by: Corey Cassidy, Patricia "Patty" Eitemiller

Registration is limited to 300 participants, and demand is high. Early registration is strongly encouraged.

• Full 3 day in-person registration (July 14-16, 2026) will  include a 6-hour pre-conference session, keynote and concurrent sessions. Registration will also include a light breakfast, lunch and snacks each day.  Cost will be $400.
• In person registration for days 2 & 3 only  (July 15-16) will include keynote and concurrent sessions. Registration will also include a light breakfast, lunch and snacks both days.  Cost will be $350.
• No virtual or hybird options will be available this year. 

Hotel Roanoke Information: A dedicated website is now available for you to book your hotel rooms online. Through this website you can book, modify or cancel your hotel reservations and receive updated information about the event. We look forward to seeing you!
Hotel Roanoke
$119 single ++taxes and fees
$139 double ++taxes and fees
$20.00 each additional person, per day plus applicable taxes
Overnight Self-Parking: $18.00 or Valet: $28.00
Daily Self-Parking: $6.00 - $12.00 or Valet: $20.00