Teach Camp is a three-day, camp-themed professional learning experience packed with practical resources, strategies, and a strong campfire community of support so that new special education teachers not only survive but thrive as they begin their teaching journey. Teach Camp is available to special education teachers who will begin their first, second, or third year of teaching special education in one of Arizona’s public schools in the fall of 2026.
Navigating the Journey: Camp Essentials
- 3-day summer “camp” to be held July 7–9, 2026, at Rio Salado College Conference Center, 2323 W. 14th St., Tempe, AZ 85281
- The cost per teacher is $195
- Each camper will receive:
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- The Survival Guide for New Special Education Teachers (3rd edition)
- One-year membership to the Council for Exceptional Children
- Additional valuable resources to pack in their teaching backpack
Trailblazing Together: What Teach Camp Alumni Are Saying!
· “The resources and guidance provided have helped boost my confidence as I begin my journey as a special education teacher.”
· “I’m hiking away with a full backpack of ideas and a happy teacher heart! Huge thanks to everyone who planned, presented, and made camp such an unforgettable experience. I’d sign up again in a heartbeat—just point me to the trailhead!”
· “I loved the warm, welcoming environment, the rockstar presenters (aka our fearless trail guides), and meeting so many fellow campers who were eager to share their survival skills and teaching hacks. Teach Camp was s’more than I expected!”
Ready for Your Teachers to Join the Adventure?
Registration for Teach Camp is open on a first-come, first-served basis until Friday, June 19, 2026. Registration must be approved by the special education director and completed by the district or charter organization, not the special education teacher. Please note that there is a limit of ten registrations for each district or charter, after which participants will be placed on a waiting list. Travel reimbursement is available for eligible districts and charter organizations for up to five travelers per organization with additional travelers as funding allows. Reimbursement details are provided in the registration form. Please be aware that we may reduce the group size per district or charter organization to accommodate the attendance of more districts/charters and budget constraints for travel reimbursement. On-site registration is not available.
Spots are limited—register today!
Please email the ESS Recruitment and Retention Inbox with any questions about Teach Camp.
Tucson Values Teachers is providing limited scholarships for educators to attend PD opportunities, if you are interested, click here for more information
- For questions regarding this resource, please contact Arizona Department of Education (ADE).
- Contact Name: ESS Recruitment and Retention Team
- Email Address: ESSRandR@azed.gov