VADETS Conference

The Virginia Association of Driver Education and Traffic Safety (VADETS) is an esteemed professional organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of driver education in Virginia. With a commitment to providing effective instruction to new drivers, VADETS aims to address the pressing need for endorsed Driver Education teachers in the Commonwealth. A pivotal initiative within the organization is the Janet Ragland Memorial Scholarship, which honors Janet Ragland's dedication to quality teaching in driver education. This year, 20 Virginia teachers were awarded the scholarship, each receiving $1,000 to help them complete the necessary courses for driver education endorsement. The recipients, representing 16 different school divisions, are set to pursue their studies at six Virginia colleges this summer, showcasing a diverse pool of talent in the field of driver education.In addition to the scholarship, VADETS is gearing up for the upcoming VADETS Conference, which will be hosted at James Madison University in Harrisonburg. This one-time event is organized by The Literacy Association of Tennessee and is expected to attract attendees from across the USA. Registration for the conference will commence in March, providing educators with a valuable opportunity to engage in professional development and networking. The conference will feature various contests aimed at promoting traffic safety awareness, where schools are encouraged to submit the best entries in categories such as posters, bumper stickers, and license plates. Alongside the contests, VADETS is actively promoting essential traffic safety themes, including the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of engaging parents and caregivers in discussions about underage drinking and impaired driving. The organization remains committed to delivering innovative educational content, ensuring that driver education adapts to modern challenges, including the influence of social media.