Teacher education programs historically offer little opportunity to develop skills necessary for communicating effectively with parents. Mixed reality simulations, such as TLE-TeachLivE, can ameliorate this lack of instruction. This study examines the communication skills demonstrated by preservice educators during a mixed reality conference simulation. Data indicate that preservice teacher communication competency varies unpredictably. Active listening skills were most frequently demonstrated, while relationship building skills were the least frequently exhibited communication competencies. This highlights a need for instruction and experience communicating with parents in teacher education programs. Further study is needed regarding potentially useful interventions in teacher education, although mixed-reality simulation appears to offer the highest degree of fidelity to real world scenarios. Continued investigation into the ways communication differs in real versus mixed reality experiences is recommended. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]