The 2026 MERC Summit will feature a dynamic lineup of researchers, educators, leaders, and students from throughout Virginia. It includes 18 interactive sessions across three breakouts, including 40 presentations on a variety of topics pertinent to public PK-12 education such as:

chronic absenteeism - mental health - artificial intelligence - experiential learning - collaborative leadership - student belonging - teacher retention - supporting students with disabilities - family engagement - literacy - school improvement - evidence-based practices - research practice partnerships

The Summit will open with a panel of students from Deep Run High School (our host site) to share their vision for the future of public schools. There will also be opportunities to connect across educational research, policy, and practice with colleagues throughout Virginia.

Click here to view the MERC Summit program and plan your day.

Click here to register. All attendees will receive a certificate for 7 hours to be used towards professional learning. There are special ticket prices for MERC members, VCU faculty and staff, and PK-12, undergraduate, and graduate students.