NACCTEP Announces New Partnership with SchoolSims to Advance Simulation-Based Teacher Training

For Immediate ReleaseMedia Contact: Julie Ferin, Executive Director, NACCTEP, julie.ferin@riosalado.edu, and Ken Spero, SchoolSims President and Co-Founder, kspero@schoolsims.com

TEMPE, AZ (April 10, 2026) – The National Association of Community College Teacher Education Programs (NACCTEP) proudly announces a new national partnership with SchoolSims, a leading provider of simulation-based learning experiences for educators and school leaders.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in strengthening how community college teacher education programs prepare future educators. By integrating simulation-based training into coursework and clinical experiences, NACCTEP and SchoolSims aim to provide candidates with meaningful, hands-on practice that builds confidence and sharpens decision-making before entering the classroom.

“Community colleges are leading the way in expanding access to the teaching profession,” said Julie Ferin, Executive Director of NACCTEP. “Through this partnership with SchoolSims, we are giving programs practical tools to support candidates in applying their learning in real-time, high-impact scenarios.”

Simulation-based learning allows teacher candidates to engage in realistic classroom and school-based situations. These experiences provide structured opportunities to practice instructional strategies, respond to student needs, and reflect on decision-making in a supportive environment.

“We are excited to partner with NACCTEP to support educator preparation programs across the country,” said Ken Spero, President and Co-Founder of SchoolSims. “Simulations create a safe and effective space for candidates to build skills through practice, feedback, and reflection.”

As part of this collaboration, NACCTEP will host an upcoming webinar in partnership with SchoolSims focused on the role of simulation in teacher preparation. The session will explore how simulation can:

●      Strengthen clinical and field-based experiences

●      Provide consistent, high-quality practice opportunities

●      Support candidate growth through feedback and reflection

●      Bridge the gap between theory and practice

The webinar will feature national leaders in educator preparation and offer practical strategies for integrating simulation into community college programs.

This partnership reflects NACCTEP’s continued commitment to supporting community college leaders with innovative tools, strong partnerships, and scalable solutions that respond to today’s educator workforce needs.

To learn more about NACCTEP and its professional learning opportunities, visit www.nacctep.org.

About NACCTEP

The National Association of Community College Teacher Education Programs (NACCTEP) supports and elevates the role of community colleges in educator preparation. Through national partnerships, advocacy, and professional development, NACCTEP empowers institutions to build robust pathways into the teaching profession, advancing opportunity and access in education.

About SchoolSims

SchoolSims provides immersive, research-based simulations that prepare educators and school leaders to navigate real-world challenges. Their platform supports skill development through interactive scenarios, coaching, and feedback aligned to professional standards.

Media Contact:

Julie Ferin

Executive Director, NACCTEP

nacctep@riosalado.edu