NSBA 2026 Annual Conference

Early Bird Savings End Jan. 16, 2026!

This national event that brings together education leaders from across the country, offering a unique opportunity to learn about best governance practices, gain insights into child development, and explore cutting-edge programs and technology to enrich student learning. Join us in San Antonio for an empowering experience of national school board leadership learning and networking with like-minded professionals.

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Keynote Speaker

Zack Kass

Global AI Advisor and Former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI

Zack Kass is an advisor, researcher, keynote speaker, and the former head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI.  

At OpenAI, Zack led the teams responsible for sales, partnerships, and customer success, turning the company’s cutting-edge research into real-world business solutions. He has personally advised executives across dozens of industries on deploying AI at scale. 

 

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Schedule-at-a-Glance (As of Aug. 18, 2025)

All dates and times are subject to change.

Friday, April 10

7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration
8:30 a.m. – Noon Experiential Learning Site Visits (Ticketed Event)
9 a.m. – Noon Preconference Workshops (Ticketed Event)
12:45 – 2 p.m. Concurrent Sessions
2:30 – 4 p.m. (Doors open at 2 p.m.) Opening General Session
4 – 6 p.m. Exhibit Hall
4 – 5:30 p.m.  Welcome Reception

Saturday, April 11

7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Registration
9 – 10:15 a.m. Rural Education Breakfast (Ticketed Event)
9 – 10:15 a.m. Concurrent Sessions
10:30 – 11:45 a.m. Concurrent Sessions
11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall
Noon – 2 p.m. Council of Urban Boards of Education Luncheon (Ticketed Event)
12:45 – 2 p.m. Concurrent Sessions
2:30 – 4 p.m. (Doors open at 2 p.m.) General Session
7:30 – 10:30 p.m. CUBE Urban Night Out (UNO) (Ticketed Event)

Sunday, April 12

7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Registration
9 – 10:15 a.m. Magna Breakfast
9 – 10:15 a.m. Concurrent Sessions
10:30 – 11:45 a.m. Concurrent Sessions
11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Exhibit Hall
Noon – 2 p.m. National Connection and Joint Councils Luncheon (Ticketed Event)
12:45 – 2 p.m. Concurrent Sessions
2:30 – 4 p.m. (Doors open at 2 p.m.) Closing General Session

Preconference Workshops (Ticketed Events)

All preconference workshops are ticketed events. They are open to all conference registrants, and tickets must be purchased in advance. To register for a preconference workshop, please log into your existing registration and choose from one of the following opportunities.

CUBE/NATCON: $200 | REGULAR: $225

Ready, Set, Govern: The Key Work of School Board Members

In today's high-stakes educational environment, the daily pressure on governance leaders is enormous. The more effective the board team, the better a school district's students perform. 

The Key Work of School Boards provides a framework that reflects 'best governance practices' that are traceable to high-performing boards and high-performing school districts. This session provides an overview of a relevant and reliable governance guide to a board during times of conflict and ideas to become a stronger team. 

This session, though not required, is also the beginning of the Ready Set Govern track, a series of sessions for both newly elected members and those individuals wanting a refresher on core areas of board work.

Presenters: 

  • Timi Tullis - Retired Deputy Director Alaska Association of School Boards 
  • Mary Fertakis - Former School Board Director, Tukwila (WA) 

A Strong Superintendent–Board Team: Your Path to Effective Board Governance
Effective board meetings are more than a place to conduct business—they’re a reflection of a strong, collaborative board–superintendent team. When this team functions well, the entire district benefits—from better decision-making to community confidence and student success. Participants will explore what it takes to build and sustain a high-functioning superintendent–board team by using real-world scenarios and best practices in governance. Attendees will assess team dynamics, identify growth-areas, and learn strategies to enhance collaboration, define roles, and build shared accountability.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Increased understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the school board and superintendent.
  2. Explore strategies that build trust and collaboration between the school board and superintendent.
  3. Gain tools to carry out effective board meetings.
  4. Be equipped with practical tips and strategies to bring back to your school board

Presenters:

  • Jenni Lefing, Membership Services Manager, Association of Alaska School Boards
  • Jamie McPherson, Deputy Director of Leadership Development, New York State School Boards Association
  • Peter Hoepfner, Board Development Coordinator, Association of Alaska School Boards

AI Basics for Educational Leaders: The Strengths and Pitfalls of AI Use at a District Level
AI is already shaping classrooms, operations, and expectations in your district—but many boards feel unprepared to lead the conversation. This beginner-friendly, hands-on session equips educational leaders to understand AI’s strengths and pitfalls, experience common generative AI tools (such as ChatGPT, Microsoft CoPilot, and Google Gemini), and identify the right questions to guide equitable, responsible AI use at the district level.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Define generative AI and describe current uses in K–12 education.
  2. Identify at least three district-level risks and three benefits of AI adoption.
  3. Use generative AI tools (ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini) at the district level, such as drafting communications and policies, and analyzing school data.
  4. Formulate key questions boards should ask about equity, privacy, and strategic alignment when evaluating AI tools.
  5. Articulate the board’s role in modeling transparent and ethical leadership around technology use.

Presenter:

  • Michelle Ihrig, Founder & CEO, Growth Mindset Collaborative

Classism 101: Understanding the Impact of Socioeconomic Status in Our Schools and Classrooms
Class and socioeconomic status are often invisible in equity discussions, yet they deeply influence student achievement and well-being. In this interactive session, board members and educators will explore five levels of class and examine how economic disparities shape school experiences. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of class identity and a customizable professional development framework to use in their own districts.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Recognize class and socioeconomic status as social identities that influence school climate and student experience.
  2. Reflect on and articulate their own class background and how it shapes their perspective.
  3. Identify and define the five levels/classifications of socioeconomic status and classism.
  4. Engage in structured, meaningful dialogue with peers on the impact of class in education.
  5. Develop an initial action plan or set of strategies to advance equity efforts related to classism in their district.

Presenters:

  • Michael Dodge, Trainer/Search Consultant, Massachusetts Association of School Committees
  • Stefania Raschilla, Superintendent, West Springfield Public Schools
  • Kerry Martins, Executive Director of Family Engagement & Educational Services, West Springfield Public Schools

Sharing the Magic: Storytelling for School Leaders
Great leaders are great storytellers! In this dynamic preconference session, school board members will learn how to craft and share the powerful stories happening in their schools and communities. Through interactive activities and real examples, attendees will gain tools to craft authentic, engaging messages that build trust, inspire action, and foster pride. Leave with the confidence and skills to tell your district’s story with heart, clarity, and purpose. Each participant will leave the session with three well-crafted and practiced stories to share immediately!

Learning Objectives:

  1. Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to craft compelling stories that highlight the strengths of their school communities.
  2. Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to identify key moments and messages that build trust and engagement with stakeholders.
  3. Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to apply storytelling techniques in board presentations, media, and community outreach.
  4. Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to model and promote a culture of storytelling throughout their district leadership teams.

Presenter:

  • Raymond Lauk, Associate Professor, Eastern Kentucky University

A Leadership-Driven Approach to Professional Development to Strengthen School Systems, Staff, and Communities, Through Immersive Learning
Community Action Poverty Simulation (CAPS) is an interactive and immersive experience that promotes a greater understanding of poverty. During the simulation, participants role-play the lives of low-income families, from single parents trying to care for their children to senior citizens trying to maintain their self-sufficiency on Social Security. During the simulation, participants role-play a month in poverty and experience the lives of low-income families. After the simulation, participants unpack their learning and brainstorm community change.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Will understand financial challenges and systemic barriers that low‑income families face when living month‑to‑month.
  2. Describe the financial, emotional, and systemic obstacles low-income families face during a month of living in poverty.
  3. Define how poverty impairs students’ learning by undermining nutrition, cognition, attendance, and emotional well‑being.
  4. Describe how poverty increases parental stress, reduces responsiveness, and disrupts parent–child relationships.
  5. Describe how educators gain insight into students’ home challenges by experiencing structural barriers, time constraints, and resource scarcity.

Presenter:

  • Megan Bania, BA, CAPS Business Development Coordinator, Missouri Community Action Network

New School Board Member Training: Ready, Set, Govern

The Ready, Set, Govern programming track equips new and veteran school board members with essential knowledge and skills for effective governance. Covering key topics such as policy, running meetings, ethics, and community engagement, these sessions provide a comprehensive foundation for success. Attendees who complete at least five of the six sessions will earn a certificate of completion.

Ready, Set, Govern: Roles and Responsibilities | Saturday, April 11 from 9 – 10:15 a.m.
Once you are elected as a board member, the real learning begins. What does it mean to govern vs. manage the district? How does the board build mutual trust with its superintendent and ensure a clear understanding of their respective roles? Based on NSBA’s Becoming a Better Board Member, participants will engage in discussions around ‘who does what’ to gain a better understanding of you in your new role vs. what the expectations are of the superintendent.

FOCUS AREA(s): Governance & Executive Leadership

Ready, Set, Govern: Running an Effective Meeting (Parliamentary Procedure) | Saturday, April 11 from 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Following the rules of parliamentary procedure can go a long way toward providing order in your decision-making process as a school board. Ethical and appropriate behavior for school board members is expected, and community engagement is embraced. Based on NSBA’s Becoming a Better Board Member and Robert’s Rules of Order, this session will provide an overview of parliamentary procedure and how it can help in maintaining order during your school board meeting.

FOCUS AREA(s): Governance & Executive Leadership

Ready, Set, Govern: Engaging with Families Through Advocacy | Saturday, April 11 from 12:45 – 2 p.m.
Advocacy on behalf of the students and families in our districts is one of the key roles of a school board member. To do this work in partnership with families requires relationship-building and trust. This investment of time can result in a range of actions at the local, state, or federal level to benefit students. Woven into these efforts is a responsibility to ensure that our advocacy work does not exacerbate or perpetuate inequities for some families, but rather mitigates or eliminates them. This session will provide participants with tools and information on how to effectively get input from families, engage in productive discussions, and partner with families in advocacy efforts while incorporating an equity lens as a part of this process. 

FOCUS AREA(s): Governance & Executive Leadership

Ready, Set, Govern: Avoiding Common Mistakes Made by New Board Members | Sunday, April 12 from 9 – 10:15 a.m.
Unintentional mistakes happen to us all, AND when we are newly elected board members, it is common. During this session, a veteran board of education member and school board association trainers will share some of the most important things to know about board governance. The presenter will discuss common mistakes that interfere with improving student achievement and student success. You will leave with practical ideas on how to actually enjoy your work on the board.

FOCUS AREA(s): Governance & Executive Leadership

Ready, Set, Govern: Board Self-Evaluation | Sunday, April 12 from 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Just as boards evaluate the superintendent, so should they assess their own effectiveness. How well does your board work together, and how effectively do you govern your school district? Do you have a collective sense of the board’s strengths and gaps as a leadership team? Are your communication processes clear? Based on NSBA’s Becoming a Better Board Member, this session will discuss components of successful evaluations, review sample instruments, and identify ways to set board goals. 

FOCUS AREA(s): Governance & Executive Leadership

Ready, Set, Govern: Importance of Policy AND Self-Care for all Board Members | Sunday, April 12 from 12:45 – 2 p.m.
Busy people are the first to say yes and add more to their plates. School board members often put everyone else before themselves, and that is when burnout can occur. As leaders, we need to keep our own gas tank filled so we can fill others up. In this session, we will think about our own well-being and receive ideas and tools for practicing self-care during late-night meetings, weekend retreats, and stressful times. The session also will focus on how board policy provides the legal framework within which the board does its work. Policy establishes a clear vision of what is to be accomplished and creates an intentional accountability system. Board policy provides the opportunity to share leadership with superintendents while communicating to staff, students, and the community the expectations of operating a complex system focused on educating children.

FOCUS AREA(s): Governance & Executive Leadership

Breakout Sessions 

Select a focus area below to view detailed information about its sessions. Sessions are still being added so check back frequently. Session dates and times will be posted on the event app as we get closer to the start of the conference.

Less Distractions, More Connection: How Warren County Schools Is Pioneering Device-Free Schools in Tennessee
In August 2024, the Warren County School Board made history by implementing Tennessee’s first districtwide electronic device policy. The results were immediate — teacher morale improved noticeably, and disciplinary incidents declined across the district. The success of this initiative has drawn the attention of other school boards statewide, many of which have sought guidance from Warren County on replicating its model.

Recognizing the growing concerns over the negative effects of excessive screen time on the emotional, physical, and mental well-being of youth nationwide, Warren County Schools took proactive steps to protect its students. Today, the district proudly serves approximately 6,100 students across 14 schools, with a diverse student population that includes 10% Hispanic representation and stands as a model of innovation, balance, and student-centered leadership.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the harm that smartphones and social media are having on our students and our classrooms.
  • Learn how to foster a positive environment not only for our students but also for their classroom teachers.
  • Discover an effective model to implementing a phone-free school policy. What are the essential elements to include in the policy?

Speakers: 

Chris Cope – Chairman, Warren County School Board
Grant Swallows, EdD – Director of Schools, Warren County Schools Tennessee
“Right-Sizing, Real Results: How Unified Leadership Builds Trust During Financial Challenges”
Faced with rising costs and outdated funding, leaders from Othello School District (WA) chose collaboration over conflict. The board president, union president, superintendent, and HR executive share how transparency, empathy, and shared priorities guided a right-sizing process. School board members will gain practical strategies to lead with unity, make tough financial decisions without losing community trust, and strengthen governance-labor partnerships in times of fiscal stress.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to explain how early collaboration builds long-term trust among district leaders.
  • Participants will be able to describe how joint messaging during cuts builds community trust.
  • Participants will be able to identify common pitfalls to avoid when leading district staffing reductions.

Speakers: 

Pete Perez, EdD – Superintendent, Othello School District
Lindsy Prows – Board President, Othello School District
Colette Simpson – Union President, Othello Education Association
Sandra Villarreal – Executive Director of Human Resources, Othello School District
Bridging Strategy and Trust: Best Practices in Superintendent and Board Relations
Strong superintendent-board relationships are essential to district success. In this session, learn how Del Valle ISD, a fast-growing district east of Austin serving over 11,000 students, implemented intentional systems to build trust, streamline communication, and support governance. Attendees will leave with strategies to strengthen collaboration, including how to develop a Board Resource Hub that increases transparency, responsiveness, and efficiency.
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe strategies to develop strong relationships between superintendents and board members for effective governance and student-centered decisions.
  • Demonstrate how to develop and maintain a centralized Board Resource Hub to streamline communication, enhance responsiveness, and support board members.
  • Identify practical tools and communication protocols that improve board engagement and align leadership efforts across fast-growing school districts.

Speakers:

Matthew Gutierrez, EdD – Superintendent, Del Valle ISD

Darla Wegner – Board President, Del Valle ISD
Small but Mighty: How a Unified School Board Transformed Student Outcomes Through Teamwork and Shared Vision
This session will share the remarkable journey of how a small, under-resourced district turned challenge into opportunity by prioritizing unity, transparency, and student achievement. Attendees will hear how the board built a culture of collaboration with district leadership, aligned its goals with student outcomes, and kept its focus on equity and community engagement. Participants will leave with strategies for effective governance that can be adapted to boards of any size.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will identify actionable practices that foster a high-performing team with mutual respect.
  • Participants will understand how to center student needs in discussions, decisions, and initiatives.
  • Participants will have examined ways to set clear, measurable goals and track progress with fidelity.
  • Participants will know how to overcome systemic and rural challenges to create a student-first culture.
  • Participants will gain communication strategies that can enhance board governance and community trust.

Speakers:

Linda Montoya, Retired Educator – WLVS Board Vice President, West Las Vegas Schools
Christine Ludi, NMSBA Officer – WLVS Board Secretary, West Las Vegas Public Schools
Rolando Medrano, Jr., Business Owner – WLVS Board President, West Las Vegas Public Schools
Christopher Lopez, San Miguel County Sheriff – Board Member, West Las Vegas Public Schools
Gabriel Salazar, Business Owner – WLVS Board Member, West Las Vegas Public Schools
Darice Balizan, MA, EdS, MS, & EdD – Associate Superintendent, West Las Vegas Schools
Christopher Gutierrez, Education Administrator – Superintendent, West Las Vegas Schools
Building a Cohesive Team: How the Board, Superintendent, and Business Administrator Effectively Work Together
How can a district leadership team create a culture of trust and shared purpose? Leaders from Provo City School District (Utah; 13,500 students) will share how they built a collaborative, high-functioning team between the school board, superintendent, and business administrator. We will explore how an intentional focus on strong communication systems and common goals can improve outcomes across the district.
Through real-world examples, attendees will gain practical tools and insights to foster a culture of collaboration from the boardroom to the classroom.
Learning Objectives:
  • Explain why communication and transparency are vital, giving examples of effective communication systems for building a cohesive team.
  • Describe the role of the Board President, VP, Supt, and BA in creating an environment of safety that fosters collaboration and teamwork.
  • List specific ways that their team can create bonding experiences and shared common goals that lead to a cohesive team.
  • Address how to work with a difficult board member or divided board.
  • Explain how a cohesive team leads to better collaboration throughout the district, which improves student achievement & teacher satisfaction.

Speakers: 

Jennifer Partridge – Board President, Provo City School District
Wendy J. Dau, MA – Superintendent, Provo City School District
Devyn Dayley – Business Administrator, Provo City School District
Gina Hales, LCSW, PhD – Board Vice President, Provo City School District
From Tokenism to Partnership: What Makes Student Board Members Most Successful?
Student board members are transforming school governance nationwide, but their impact depends on how the role is structured and supported. Learn the key elements of successful student board member programs, from selection and onboarding to rights, expectations, and ongoing support. Explore real district examples, hear from student board members, and walk away with tools to strengthen or launch meaningful student representation as a part of your school board.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify core components of effective student board member programs and how they strengthen school board decision-making.
  • Learn how districts structure, support, and empower student board members through selection, onboarding, rights, and ongoing mentorship, drawing on models from across the U.S.
  • Generate concrete ideas and next steps to strengthen student voice and participation as a part of your school board.

Speaker: 

George-Constantinos Charonis – Executive Director, National Student Board Member Association

Stronger Together: How Trust Focused Governance Fuels District Success

What happens when school boards and superintendents move beyond formal roles and cultivate authentic, trust-based partnerships? In this engaging panel, school board members will share how their district has flourished through intentional collaboration with their superintendent. Panelists will explore how mutual trust empowers decision-making, strengthens accountability, and creates space for innovation. Attendees will hear examples of navigating difficult decisions, managing community tensions, and aligning on vision -- through clear communication, role clarity, and shared values.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify key elements that foster trust between school boards and superintendents.
  • Utilize communication practices that promote transparency, respect, and collective ownership of outcomes.
  • Recognize early warning signs of fractured governance relationships and explore proactive steps to rebuild trust.
  • Apply strategies to clarify roles and responsibilities to avoid micromanagement and misalignment.

Speakers:

Sharon DiGirolamo, MEd, EdD – Superintendent, Seaford School District
Kimberly Hopkins, MSN, RN – President, Seaford School District Board of Education
Jeffrey T. Benson, Jr., DBA – Vice President, Seaford School District Board of Education
Dara Laws Savage, EdD – Board Member, Seaford School District Board of Education
Marcus Wright – Board Member, Seaford School District Board of Education
Armore Rice – Board Member, Seaford School District Board of Education
Developing, Monitoring, and Communicating to Our Community Board Accountability Metrics That Improve Student Outcomes and Support District Improvement.
Over the past two years, the Charles County Board of Education has undertaken a comprehensive effort to strengthen alignment, clarity, and coherence across its governance work, the district’s strategic plan, and the superintendent’s performance indicators. This session provides an inside look at that journey — highlighting the strategies, challenges, and breakthroughs that shaped a more unified approach to systemwide improvement.

Participants will learn how the Board developed a governance handbook to define roles, expectations, and collective commitments more clearly. Presenters will share lessons learned from this codification process, including how it improved board operations, built trust, and clarified how members support one another in fulfilling their responsibilities.

The session will also explore the creation of Board goals and measurable indicators directly tied to the district’s strategic plan. Attendees will gain insight into how the Board established coherence between long-term system priorities and its own accountability structures.

Finally, the presenters will reflect on what it takes to maintain strategic focus amid competing demands and emergent issues. They will discuss practical approaches the Board adopted to stay centered on student outcomes while navigating a complex and often fast-moving educational landscape.

This session is ideal for board members, superintendents, and district leaders seeking real-world examples of how governance structures can evolve to support greater clarity, alignment, and continuous improvement.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be in a position to develop or refine their Board's goals and metrics that are directly connected to their district’s strategic priorities, and that impact district improvement.
  • Participants will recognize strategies for maintaining focus on long-term goals while navigating multiple issues or emergent challenges.
  • Participants will have sample tools to use in their districts that support alignment, coherence, and effectiveness within their own governance structures.

Speakers: 

Samichie K. Thomas, BSW, MA – Board of Education Member, Charles County Public Schools
Jamila Smith, MSW – Board of Education Member, Charles County Public Schools
When Adults Misbehave, Students Pay The Price — What The Most Comprehensive Study of School Board Behavior Reveals About Academic Outcomes
What does the most comprehensive study of school board behavior reveal about academic outcomes and board behavior at board meetings? Attendees will leave this session with a deeper understanding of how board behavior influences student achievement, how to identify destructive board behavior before it escalates, and how to apply research-backed recommendations to foster healthier governance and better educational outcomes. Across the country, school boards are grappling with increasing tension, conflict, and politicization. This research reveals how great boards structure their meetings to get top results.
Learning Objectives:
  • Visibly experience more positive behavior from all board members.
  • Deal effectively with rogue board members by seeing a change in their behavior as evidenced by their actions during board meetings.
  • Work as teams rather than individuals, based on extensive one-on-one training and feedback.

Presenter:

David E. Lee, Doctorate in Educational Leadership – Professor of Educational Leadership, The University of Southern Mississippi

Board and Senior Leadership Policy Institute

Spring ISD hosts an annual Board Policy Institute session, a collaborative two-day event designed for the Board of Trustees and Senior Leadership team to address critical challenges in our district. Facilitated by our district's policy consultant, we explore key policy categories and their impact on public education. Participants prioritize concerns, engage in brainstorming sessions, and align strategies with actionable policies. This institute aims to create a roadmap for effective governance and enhanced student outcomes for our 34,000 students.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify critical challenges faced by the district and the specific areas of focus identified during the Board Policy Institute.
  • Understand the impact of effective policy revisions on student achievement and district operations.
  • Develop actionable strategies for implementing and evaluating these policies in their own districts to drive continuous improvements.

Speakers:

Justine Durant, President – Board of Trustees, Spring Independent School District
Kregg Cuellar, EdD – Superintendent, Spring Independent School District
Governance Games People Play
Governance Games People Play unpacks the unspoken dynamics that can derail productive board governance — egos, grandstanding, off-agenda detours — and replaces them with student-centered focus and clarity through engaging metaphors, interactive scenarios, and reflection tools rooted in the Texas Framework for School Board Development. This session is a transformative experience that equips boards to lead with integrity, unity, and urgency while keeping student outcomes improvement at the forefront.
Learning Objectives:
  • Attendees will identify common behavioral patterns (“governance games”) that undermine student-centered decision-making and board alignment.
  • Attendees will understand the consequences of “playing games” versus upholding the board’s primary role — improving student outcomes.
  • Attendees will reflect on their own governance tendencies and commit to specific behaviors that promote trust, focus, and results.
  • Attendees will improve meeting structures, decision-making processes, and refine self-discipline in favor of achieving extraordinary student success.
  • Attendees will realign their own behavior to create conditions for improved student success — choosing to leave behind governance game-playing.

Speakers:

Adrain Johnson, Superintendent Certification, 2025 Superintendent of the Year ESC6 – Superintendent, Hearne ISD
Delic Loyde, Superintendent Certification, School Board Governance Authorized Provider, Lone Star Governance Coach, Effective School Boards Governance Coach – Governance Coach, Hearne Education Foundation/Hearne ISD
Jannifer Taylor – Board of Education Member, Hearne ISD
Why School Boards Matter
School boards conduct routine business and are often ignored by education reformers. Now, not a week goes by without a battle in a boardroom. Across blue, purple, and red states, school boards have become the epicenter of debate. Why are there so many battles in boardrooms? Do school boards matter? Drawing on history, research, and his journey from Wall Street to a school board seat, Scott Levy makes the case that school boards have transformational power. While polarization and the rise in social media make governing difficult, boards can strengthen our public education system and our democracy.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will understand societal trends that make governance more difficult and how to navigate them.
  • Participants will understand how school boards are uniquely positioned to strengthen school districts.
  • Participants will be inspired as they see how their work in the boardroom improves our overall democracy.

Speaker: 

Scott Levy – Adjunct Lecturer, Harvard Graduate School of Education

Lead Without the Drama: When the Board and Superintendent Actually Get Along — Learn How to Ditch Dysfunction, Build Trust, and Create a Unified Governance Team That Drives Real Results for All Students

trong school systems start with strong governance teams. This interactive session offers practical, research-based strategies used to strengthen trust, clarify roles, and align priorities between superintendents and board members. Drawing on Grandview C-4’s real-world journey and national insights, attendees will reflect on current practices and walk away with tools to improve communication, foster collaboration, and lead as a unified, student-focused governance team.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to identify key trust-building strategies.
  • Participants will be able to analyze current board–superintendent dynamics.
  • Participants will be able to implement practical steps to strengthen collaborative governance.

Speakers:

Kenny Rodrequez, EdD – Superintendent, Grandview C-4
Helen Ransom – School Board President, Grandview C-4 School District
Monica Terry – School Board Vice President, Grandview C-4 School District

Hearing the Heartbeat: Gathering Community Voice to Guide Board Decisions

In this session, the Durango School Board will share how it incorporates community input into shaping public education for its community. Board members will discuss involving hundreds, even thousands, of voices in districtwide initiatives such as the superintendent search, the creation of a Portrait of a Graduate, and the development of a new strategic plan. Serving 4,500 students across various schools, the Durango School District represents a diverse student body, including 31% economically disadvantaged, 4% English language learners, 14% students with disabilities, and 8% gifted and talented.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will understand the importance of community feedback in board decision-making.
  • Participants will learn strategies for engaging diverse stakeholders in feedback efforts.
  • Participants will learn tools for leading various community feedback formats.

Speakers:

Kristin Smith, BA in Communications – Board President, Durango School Board
Andrea Parmenter, BA and MA of Science – Board Secretary, Durango School Board
Rick Petersen – Board Treasurer, Durango School Board
Erika Brown, BA and MA – Board Vice President, Durango School Board
HEART Work Is HARD Work: The Human Side of Systemwide Family Engagement
What happens when family engagement is treated as a core value, not just a strategy? Learn how LCPS created a divisionwide system of support through its Family and Community Engagement Division by enhancing family liaison programs, elevating interpreter services, building a Family Academy, and the FACE Teacher Cohort. Through real stories and practical tools, presenters will share how to scale sustainable engagement models that center relationships, promote accessibility, and drive student success across schools and communities.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to describe how treating family engagement as a core value transforms systems, structures, and school culture.
  • Participants will be able to identify key components for scaling a sustainable liaison model using training, tools, and system-level supports.
  • Participants will be able to explain the role of family liaisons in building trust, increasing access, and supporting student success.
  • Participants will be able to examine how school board and superintendent support sustains and scales systemwide family engagement efforts.

Speakers:

Aaron Spence, EdD – Superintendent, Loudoun County Public Schools
Natalie Allen, Graduate Certificate-Equity and Excellence in Education – Chief Communications Officer, Loudoun County Public Schools
Sumera Rashid, DDS – School Board Representative, Loudoun County Public Schools
Renée Dawson, EdS – Director of Family and Community Engagement, Loudoun County Public Schools
Don’t Forget to Remember: Resilience, Leadership, and the Power of Purpose
In the midst of budgets, board meetings, and policy debates, it’s easy to forget why we started this work in the first place. In “Don’t Forget to Remember,” Sean Buchanan delivers a powerful message of resilience rooted in purpose. With humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom, he reminds board members that the strength to lead through storms doesn’t come from position. It comes from remembering what truly matters. This session offers a reset for the soul and a challenge to lead with clarity, compassion, and courage.
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the role of core values in resilient school board leadership.
  • Reflect on how remembering personal and collective purpose sustains motivation through adversity.
  • Identify strategies to keep teams grounded and unified during challenging times.
  • Demonstrate how purposeful storytelling and legacy-thinking can reframe public perception and internal morale.

Speaker:

Sean Buchanan – Superintendent, Geary Public Schools

Implementing Student Voice With Impact: A School District's Journey From Learning About Student Voice at NSBA to Implementing With Fidelity

When a school board has a vision and goal of increasing student voice, what are the best steps forward? After attending NSBA in 2023 and learning how some districts were engaging students, the Minnetonka School Board (MN) was inspired to create its own student engagement model. Efforts included enlisting students to examine best practices for incorporating student voice, hosting a student-led forum, and pairing board members with grade-level cohorts of students to meet regularly. Learn about the district's development, implementation, lessons learned, success measurement, and next steps.
Learning Objectives:
  • Learn how to harness student voice to engage students and better meet your district's needs.
  • Learn strategies to incorporate student voice in a practical and productive manner.
  • Learn ways to measure student engagement results for success.

Speakers:

David Law – Superintendent, Minnetonka Public Schools
Kemerie Foss, ABJ – School Board Member, Minnetonka Public Schools
Dan Olson, MFA – School Board Member, Minnetonka Public Schools
Sally Browne
Rorey Schoen
“From Classroom to Commerce: The Crucial Call for Community Leadership”
Public education is more than an academic endeavor—it’s an engine for economic growth. In this compelling session, trustees and industry panelists will explore the powerful, often underappreciated connection between student success and regional economic vitality. Anchored in the theme “Classroom to Commerce,” this panel will highlight how school board leaders can become strategic partners in workforce development by championing career and technical education (CTE), aligning district goals with labor market data, and collaborating with industry stakeholders.
Learning Objectives:
  • Trustees will understand how to set district goals that align with local, state, and national workforce needs and tap students’ innate talents with a focus on K-12’s role in the economy.
  • Trustees will be introduced to the critical connection between the success of our graduates and the economic vitality of their communities.
  • Trustees will gain a clear understanding of the existing gap between workforce demands and graduates' current skill sets.
  • Trustees will be inspired to explore and deepen their understanding of local Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways and college and career-readiness programs.
  • Trustees will recognize the value of high-quality CTE programs—not just as academic offerings, but as essential tools for student success and economic growth.

Speakers:

Carol M. Warkoczewski, MS-OLE, AIA – Founder & Chief Vision Officer/CEO, Institute for Leadership in Capital Projects (I-LinCP)
Melissa I. Lopez, MA – Executive Administrator, Region One ESC
Bobbie Sue Gonzalez, EdD – Director, Region One Education Service Center
Eladio Jaimez
Let’s Talk: Listening Our Way to Stronger School-Family Partnerships
Learn how Walnut Valley Unified, a school district serving more than 14,000 students (95% of whom are students of color), launched Let’s Talk, a districtwide event that centered family voice through structured, dialogue-based engagement. Hear how feedback led to analyzing math homework practices, parent supports, and communication systems. Attendees will learn how to design inclusive engagement events, elevate underrepresented voices, and use family feedback to guide Board and District priorities.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to design and facilitate inclusive, dialogue-based family engagement experiences.
  • Participants will be able to use family feedback to shape district plans and board-level priorities.
  • Participants will be able to identify themes in family input and align them with district priorities.
  • Participants will be able to design strategies that focus on listening and build trust with families.

Speakers:

Robert Taylor, EdD – Superintendent, Walnut Valley USD
Diane Perez, EdD – Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources, Walnut Valley USD
Matthew Torres, EdD – Deputy Superintendent, Walnut Valley USD
Layla Abou-Taleb, MSW – Board President, Walnut Valley USD
Beyond the Degree: Parent Views on Education Paths
As AI, automation, and globalization shift the US job market, so too are parents' views shifting on how K-12 education should prepare students for the future. A recent national survey indicates a growing openness among parents to career and technical education and non-degree pathways. The preference that their child pursue a traditional college degree has declined significantly since 2019. This session will explore how school boards can incorporate parents’ evolving perceptions as they work to create responsive and effective education systems that reflect the community’s values and priorities.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify parents’ evolving perceptions of career and technical education and how those perceptions vary by demographics.
  • Better understand parents’ preferences for their children’s paths after high school.
  • Anticipate the level of parental involvement in children’s postsecondary plans.
  • Appreciate parents’ familiarity with nondegree paths and their understanding of the benefits and drawbacks.
  • Know how well-equipped parents feel to guide their children on a nondegree path.

Speaker:

Caroline M. Healy, MEd, MS, PhD – Director of Research & Insights, American Student Assistance

School PR Strategies in the Age of AI

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping how districts manage and communicate information. This session explores findings from the National School Public Relations Association's 2025 survey of school communication professionals to reveal how AI is changing the landscape of school public relations, from content creation to policy development. Attendees will examine current trends in AI use, guidance, and training across districts, and gain a clearer understanding of how school communicators are leveraging these tools responsibly. Participants will leave with practical insights on how boards and school leaders can support innovation while maintaining trust, ethics, and high-quality communication with their communities.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how artificial intelligence is currently being used in school communications — and what that means for transparency, accuracy, and public trust.
  • Recognize potential risks and challenges of using AI tools in district messaging, including misinformation, bias, and privacy concerns.
  • Identify five common roadblocks school systems encounter when developing clear and ethical AI guidance — and why addressing them proactively matters for boards and communities.
  • Explore four practical steps school leaders and boards can take to move toward responsible AI use, including policy alignment, staff training, and public communication.
  • Clarify the board’s role in supporting innovation while ensuring that technology use aligns with district values, equity commitments, and community expectations.

Speaker: 

Melissa McConnell, MA – Manager, Professional Development & Member Engagement, National School Public Relations Association

From Bored to Bold: Strategic Planning That Actually Works!

In this energizing session, discover how to transform your planning process from a tedious requirement to a bold roadmap for real, future-ready impact. Learn practical strategies to engage all stakeholders, align goals with action, and create plans that drive meaningful change in your district. With real-world examples and interactive tools, you will see how one district embarked on a journey to lead their strategic planning process with a focused, flexible, and collaborative approach. Say goodbye to binders on shelves and hello to a strategic planning process that actually works.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify key elements of an effective, actionable strategic plan that aligns with district priorities.
  • Apply strategies to engage diverse stakeholders in meaningful, collaborative planning conversations.
  • Develop a framework for turning strategic goals into measurable actions that can be monitored with evidence to build trust and accountability.

Speakers:

Brady Reinke – District Administrator, Whitnall School District
Lee Pritzl, Doctorate – Author and Educational Speaker, Elevated Performance
Shannon Donnelly
We Are in This Together! Playing Fairly in the Sandbox. A Critical Look at the Positive Relationship Between the School Board, School Administrators, and the Community
An interactive workshop focused on strengthening the relationship between school boards, administrators, and the community. Using the metaphor of a shared sandbox, the session emphasizes respect, shared values, and a clear, student-centered vision as the foundation for collaboration.

Participants will explore how fiscal transparency, fair policies, and community inclusion in decision-making help build trust. Through group activities, role-playing, and strategic planning, the workshop provides practical tools to enhance communication and ensure that community voices are heard.
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe a deeper understanding of how mutual respect and transparency impact school culture and success.
  • Utilize concrete tools to enhance board-community communication.
  • Demonstrate a renewed commitment to keeping students at the center of every decision.
  • List effective communication strategies that align with the mission and vision.
  • Define cultural inclusivity and diversity.

Speaker:

Reginald J. Chandler, Rev. Dr. – School Board Member, Polytech School District

From Empty Desks to Full Dreams: Transforming School Closure Into Community Connection

In 2021, Littleton Public Schools (Littleton, CO) made the difficult decision to close a long-time neighborhood elementary school due to declining enrollment. As part of the process, the Board of Education pledged to involve the community in identifying local needs and assets to help transform the closing elementary school into a new community center. This presentation explores how that commitment reshaped partnerships between Littleton Public Schools and local agencies, and how the school district is leveraging those partnerships and the community center to benefit students and families.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to evaluate the effectiveness of the process utilized to close a long-standing school and create a community center.
  • Participants will be able to evaluate the preparedness level of their own Board to make a similar decision to close and repurpose a school.
  • Participants will learn how to develop and conduct a community input process for making visible and difficult decisions with large-scale community impact.
  • Participants will reflect on shifting from school to community center and explore how to design programs that meet local needs.

Speakers: 

Todd Lambert, PhD – Superintendent, Littleton Public Schools
Andrew Graham, MBA – School Board Member, Littleton Public Schools
Chérie Garcia-Kuper – School Board Member, Littleton Public Schools
Melissa R. Cooper, MA – Deputy Superintendent, Littleton Public Schools
Jose Cardenas – East Community Center Director - Littleton Public Schools, Littleton Public Schools
Getting Voters' Buy-In: Lessons Learned from Back-to-Back Successful Bond and Override Elections in the Tucson Unified School District
The last time TUSD won a successful bond was two decades ago and an override 40 years ago. Multiple attempts failed since then. Faced with cuts in state funding and post-ESSER budget issues, the Governing Board called for a bond election in 2023. TUSD won this election with a nearly 60% yes vote. In June 2025, the Board approved going back to voters for an override election in November 2025, which won with 56% support. This session discusses lessons learned from these two election seasons, strategies TUSD used before approving the elections, involvement of stakeholders, how we preempted potential opposition, and strategies for developing a campaign going into the November election season.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand factors to consider when deciding whether or not to go to voters for a bond or override election.
  • Know the importance of having a longitudinal systematic strategy in place when developing a bond or override campaign.
  • Be able to form effective alliances and partnerships with unions and other stakeholders for success at the ballot box.
  • Know how to address opposition and mitigate opposition in a successful campaign.

Speakers:

Shah Ravi, MD – Member, TUSD Governing Board, Tucson Unified School District
Eckstrom Jennifer – Member, TUSD Governing Board, Tucson Unified School District
Gabriel Trujillo
School Social Workers: A Smart Investment in Student Support, Family Engagement, and Schoolwide Success
Across the country, school boards are facing urgent challenges — student well-being, family engagement, school safety, and chronic absenteeism. School Social Workers are uniquely trained and positioned to help school systems meet these needs through direct student support, system-level problem-solving, and culturally responsive partnerships with families. In this session, school board members will gain an understanding of the role of a School Social Worker and walk away with insight into how School Social Workers are an ideal partner for meeting pressing student, family, and community needs.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how School Social Workers support student mental health, reduce absenteeism, and improve school climate through both direct services and leadership.
  • Understand how School Social Workers engage families as partners, respect diverse backgrounds and values, and strengthen the connection between home and school.
  • Gain solvent and practical ways school boards can leverage School Social Workers via staffing, clear role definition, and inclusion in school improvement.

Speakers:

Rebecca Oliver, LMSW – Executive Director, School Social Work Association of America
Terrie Taylor, LSW – School Social Worker/School Board Director, Conrad Weiser School District/Wyomissing Area School District

The Urban Leader's Paradox: Navigating Servant Leadership and Collective Well-Being Through an Equity Lens

Servant leadership creates tension between serving others and maintaining well-being for leaders and school boards. This session explores this paradox through five CPS Network Chiefs: Chief Myron Hester (Network 17), Chief Devon LaRosa (Network 16), Chief Alene Mason (Network 9), Chief Shenethe Parks (Network 12), Antonio Acevedo (Network 7), and Chad Thomas from DPQ. They'll share how the Collective Well-Being Framework uses an equity lens to provide tools for prioritizing well-being, mitigating burnout, and modeling healthy practices. Learn strategies for building resilience.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify specific strategies from the Collective Well-Being Framework that address the tension between servant leadership and personal well-being.
  • Implement equity-focused well-being practices that mitigate burnout while maintaining effective leadership in diverse school communities.
  • Develop board policies and governance structures that institutionalize collective well-being as a core organizational value and practice.
  • Apply evidence-based resilience strategies that support sustainable leadership practices for both individual leaders and their teams.

Speakers:

Myron Hester, EdS – Chief of High Schools Network 17, Chicago Public Schools
Devon LaRosa – Chief of Network 16, Chicago Public Schools
Alene Mason – Chief of Network 9, Chicago Public Schools
Shenethe Parks – Chief of Network 12, Chicago Public Schools
Antonio Acevedo – Chief of Network 7, Chicago Public Schools
Chad Thomas – Director of School Leader Engagement, Chicago Public Schools, Department of Principal Quality
Bridging Education and Industry: A District Approach to Workforce Development
Learn how South Allegheny School District (PA), serving a diverse, economically disadvantaged population, built a unique and responsive workforce development program centered on equity and opportunity. Session highlights demonstrate how intentional support from the school board and administrative team, beyond general oversight, was critical for recognizing students' specific needs and for bridging education, industry, and employment. Explore how to identify and close opportunity gaps, build partnerships, and leave with strategies to implement districtwide career-connected learning.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will describe how leadership and board support drive equitable workforce development in a diverse, economically disadvantaged district.
  • Upon completion of this session, participants will identify strategies to close opportunity gaps and align student needs with career-connected pathways.
  • Participants will demonstrate how to build sustainable partnerships between education, industry, and community to support students' post-grad success.

Speakers: 

Laura A. Thomson – Workforce Development Coordinator and Director of Public Relations, South Allegheny School District
Frank Cortazzo
Building Bridges, Closing Gaps: A Comprehensive Strategy for Achieving At-Risk/At-Promise Student Success
This workshop delves into Uniondale Union Free School District's successful, multifaceted approach to ensuring at-promise students graduate by leveraging community partnerships such as My Brothers Keeper and Latina Mentoring Initiative, dual enrollment and CTE experiences, coupled with tiered interventions and data monitoring. We will describe how we are closing gaps for young men of color and English language learners while engaging youth in the solutions. We'll explore the strategic framework that enabled our district to build bridges to opportunity and close achievement gaps for these deserving students.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify and apply key data points for effectively monitoring the progress of at-risk/at-promise students and making informed intervention decisions.
  • Design a comprehensive mentoring framework that leverages both community and staff resources to provide holistic support for at-risk students.
  • Engage youth in problem-solving and action planning that supports at-risk peers.

Speakers:

Monique A. Darrisaw-Akil – Superintendent, Uniondale Union Free School District
Matthew C. Ritter – Assistant Superintendent of Data, Planning, Assessment and Accountability, Uniondale Union Free School District
Shawn F. Brown, PhD – Principal, Uniondale High School
Charmise P. Desiré, MA, MBA – Board Trustee, Uniondale Union Free School District
Optimistic Allies: Building Our Capacity as Educators and Advocates for Change
Too often, equity work begins only after a crisis. This session introduces a customizable training program implemented in urban, suburban, and rural districts to build the capacity of educators, administrators, and school board members. Participants will explore strategies to foster inclusion, recognize bias, and support students from underrepresented backgrounds. Attendees will leave with practical tools and a deeper understanding of how to lead equity efforts in diverse educational settings before issues escalate.
Learning Objectives:
  • Recognize and reflect on key social identities and analyze how these identities impact students' experiences in schools.
  • Develop inclusive communication strategies for engaging with students, families, and colleagues that affirm identity and foster belonging.
  • Demonstrate increased confidence and competence in addressing issues of bias or inequity when they arise in schools or board discussions.
  • Apply specific tools and activities to guide professional learning in their own district or school context.
  • Identify areas for continued learning and growth and create a personal or team action plan to extend this work beyond the session.

Speakers:

Michael Dodge, EdD, MBA – Trainer/Search Consultant, Massachusetts Association of School Committees
Stefania Raschilla, MA – Superintendent, West Springfield Public Schools
Kerry Martins, MEd – Executive Director of Family Engagement & Educational Services, West Springfield Public Schools
Which Special Education Staffing Models Are Appropriate for Our District?
A school board’s consideration of budget and policy may include a strategy to address the national shortage of special educators. Learn about IDEA funding guidelines, explore four models of special education staffing, and consider the relative benefits and challenges of each so you’ll be prepared.
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe legal guidelines for the use of IDEA funds for staffing special educators and support services.
  • Explore four special education staffing models and their researched benefits and challenges.
  • Generate questions related to staffing special education to take back to your districts.

Speaker:

Amy M. Pleet-Odle, EdD – Inclusion Coach, Inclusion Focused Coaching, LLC

Literacy and Justice for All: Schools and Communities Together

Literacy is a civil right. The Oshkosh Area School District serves 9,100 students, (66% White and 33% students of color). At this time, only 12% of Black students are proficient in reading compared to 57% of White students. Wisconsin has the widest racial reading gap in the nation. This session explores how strong leadership and school-community partnerships can confront literacy inequities. Attendees will leave with strategies to lead with urgency and equity to ensure every child has access to the literacy skills they need to thrive.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to define literacy as a civil right and describe how to initiate and sustain justice-oriented school-community partnerships.
  • Analyze local and state literacy data to identify disparities and prioritize strategic partnerships to address racial achievement gaps.
  • Identify strategies to build trust with families and communities through transparent communication and inclusive literacy initiatives.
  • Demonstrate how to engage community stakeholders in collaborative efforts to support literacy improvement initiatives.
  • Develop approaches to foster enthusiasm and shared ownership among educators, leaders, and partners for advancing literacy as a collective mission.

Speakers:

Anthony Miller, MS Educational Leadership, Certificate in Post Secondary, Adult, Technical Education – Director of Community Engagement and Equity, Oshkosh Area School District
Samuel Coleman, PhD, MS, MEd, MSEd – Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, Oshkosh Area School District
Molly Smiltneek, JD – Contracted Immigration Attorney and Oshkosh School Board Member, Oshkosh Area School District

Endeavoring to Meet the Needs of Every Child: Building and Sustaining a Culture That Supports Social and Emotional Learning

This session will articulate our district’s journey to develop a culture of sustainable change and student-centered growth. Learn how Westmoreland Central School District has intentionally cultivated a safe, supportive, and healthy school environment through meaningful partnerships, visionary leadership, and authentic student engagement. We will provide insight into how school districts can foster stronger alignment between classroom practice, culture, community values, and board-level decision-making — all through the lens of social emotional learning (SEL).
Learning Objectives:
  • Demonstrate an incremental approach to creating a sustaining social emotional improvements and initiatives using a variety of methods.
  • To collaborate with professional organizations, community leaders and national and local partners.
  • To build a culture where courageous conversations among colleagues become the norm rather than the exception.
  • To be intentional when making decisions impacting the social, emotional, and physical safety and well-being of students.

Speakers:

Rocco A. Migliori, MS, CAS – Superintendent of Schools, Westmoreland Central School
John Acee – Board of Education President, Westmoreland Central School
Stephen Polera, MS, CAS – Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment, Westmoreland Central School
Trevor Haskell, MA, CAS – Upper Elementary School Principal, Westmoreland Central School
How Predators Groom Children, Families, and Organizations
This session will equip school board members and district leaders with the knowledge to identify grooming behaviors and to strengthen policies that better protect students. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how offenders manipulate children, families, and institutions, and will leave with actionable strategies to improve staff training, close policy gaps, and foster a culture of prevention. Developed by the Beau Biden Foundation for the Protection of Children, this session is grounded in research and best practices from child protection experts.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to define the stages and strategies offenders use to groom children, families, and youth-serving organizations.
  • Participants will be able to identify warning signs and behavioral red flags that may indicate grooming or boundary violations.
  • Participants will be able to evaluate existing district or school policies for gaps that may allow grooming behaviors to go unnoticed.
  • Participants will learn how to respond effectively when inappropriate behavior or grooming concerns are reported.
  • Participants will learn policy, training, and oversight improvements to reduce the risk of abuse within their school

Speaker:

Patricia Dailey Lewis, Esq. – Chief Executive Officer, Beau Biden Foundation
Restorative Leadership: Transforming School Culture Through Connection and Accountability
Discover how innovative school leaders are using restorative practices to shift from reactive discipline to proactive community-building. This session explores practical strategies for creating a culture of connection, communication, and accountability—from leadership circles to student interventions. Learn how restorative leadership not only improves student behavior and belonging, but also drives deeper systemic transformation. Leave with actionable tools to reimagine your school culture, navigate resistance to change, and inspire sustainable student success.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will learn how to implement restorative practices as a leadership strategy to transform school culture and strengthen relationships.
  • Participants will gain tools for scaling restorative practices from pilot programs to full district initiatives.
  • Participants will analyze the role of peer mediation models in reinforcing a positive school culture rooted in empathy, accountability, and inclusivity.

Speakers:

Nakeshia Smith-Farnum, MA – Director of Restorative Practices and Community Engagement, Valley Stream Central High School District
Jennifer DiMaio, EdD – Deputy Superintendent of Schools, Valley Stream Central High School District
Kelly Whitney-Rivera, EdD – District Director of Guidance and Chief Information Officer, Valley Stream Central High School District
Wayne R. Loper, EdD – Superintendent of Schools, Valley Stream Central High School District
Kelly Urena
Using Policy to Promote Board Values
Budgets show values — but so do policies. In a polarized time, the Bloomington School Board updated and created policies to better reflect district and board values, including on gender inclusion, library materials, and more. This session will share our process, challenges faced, and strategies for communicating change to the community. This session will be led by two current board members from Bloomington Public Schools, a suburban district outside of Minneapolis, MN, serving 10,000 K-12 students (60% BIPOC, 55% FRL).
Learning Objectives:
  • Design and implement district policies that align with both community values and student needs.
  • Effectively communicate the purpose and impact of policy changes to stakeholders and the broader community.
  • Apply practical strategies for advancing values-based policies amid political or public controversy.

Speakers:

Matt Dymoke, MS – School Board Member, Bloomington Public Schools
Tom Bennett, EdS – School Board Member, Bloomington Public Schools
Heather Starks – School Board Member, Bloomington Public Schools
Preparing Our Schools for the U.S. Overdose Crisis
Are America's schools prepared for an overdose? In this session, we’ll unveil shocking trends in youth overdose deaths and the growing evidence identifying our kids as key targets within the drug trafficking industry. We’ll discuss the liabilities of being unprepared and the data highlighting how most schools across the nation are significantly compromised from a resource and policy standpoint to prevent and address overdoses. In tandem, we’ll showcase novel, evidence-based interventions that can prepare schools with the policies, education, and tools they need to stay ahead of the epidemic.
Learning Objectives:
  • Define the current state of opioid preparedness in U.S. schools and explain why it remains critically understudied.
  • Describe the scope and impact of illicit drug exposure among high school students, including fentanyl-related risks.
  • Recognize the role of school boards in implementing overdose prevention policies and ensuring school safety.
  • Explain the key components and outcomes of Arizona’s STOP-IT initiative and legislative progress by other states to address this issue.
  • Evaluate the public health and legal liabilities schools face when unprepared for student overdoses.

Speaker:

Holly Geyer, MD, FASAM – Chair of STOP-IT, Addiction Medicine Physician, Mayo Clinic

Enhancing School Cybersecurity: Preparing Schools and Districts for Cyber Threats

Join the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) School Safety Task Force to explore the latest federal resources for equipping school districts to prevent, protect against, and respond to a variety of cyber threats. This session will share guidance, best practices, and free resources designed for K-12 leaders to apply leading cybersecurity standards. These resources aim to help schools and school districts build or mature strong cybersecurity programs by providing cost-effective, practical, and tailorable steps to improve cybersecurity controls and responses.
Learning Objectives:
  • Know the options for ongoing enhancement of school cybersecurity systems.
  • Understand the best practices in K-12 cybersecurity to implement preventative measures and manage cyber risks.
  • Be inspired to identify areas of improvement in your district's cybersecurity plan and build or mature strong cybersecurity programs.

Speakers:

Don Hough – Deputy Associate Director, Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency School Safety Task Force
Claire Gallet – Program Specialist, Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency School Safety Task Force
Risks of Being Rural: Culturally Responsive Mental Health Supports for Students, Educators, and Families
Join us to explore how the unique identity, culture, and resources of rural communities affect mental health and strategies to meet these needs. With limited access to mental health professionals — 65% of rural counties lack psychiatrists, and 47% have no psychologists — schools often bear the responsibility of supporting student well-being without sufficient resources. Attendees will explore interdisciplinary approaches, including integrating mental health support in schools, using virtual tools, and building strong community-based networks to promote resilience and self-care.
Learning Objectives:
  • Review the latest research on mental health disparities in rural communities and discuss challenges unique to rural schools.
  • Discover strategies to embed mental health support into rural schools using scalable tools tailored for students, educators, and families.
  • Identify actions to boost connection, strengthen protective factors, and ensure all students can access needed mental health support.

Speaker: 

Gina Stanley, MEd – State Director, School and Community Advocacy, Cook Center for Human Connection

The AI Mental Health Advantage: Strategies for Student and Staff Well-Being

Students and educators alike are turning to AI for emotional support. With burnout rising and student mental health needs growing, this session explores how safe, therapist-informed AI tools can support well-being for both groups. Learn how districts are ethically using AI to promote connection, reduce stress, and guide users toward trusted relationships and healthier coping strategies. Discover scalable, low-cost solutions that strengthen your district’s wellness culture — without replacing the human touch.
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the ways students and staff are using AI for emotional support and wellness.
  • Identify key features and safety guardrails of therapist-informed AI tools.
  • Demonstrate how districts are integrating AI to support both student and staff mental health.
  • Evaluate the role of school leadership in selecting, monitoring, and scaling responsible AI solutions.
  • Access practical strategies for creating a wellness-centered culture using innovative, cost-effective technologies.

Speakers:

Tricia Mooney, EdD – Superintendent, Hermiston School District
Anne Brown – President and CEO, Cook Center for Human Connection
Comprehensive School Safety: Creating Safe and Supportive Learning Environments in the K-12 Community
Join the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) School Safety Task Force to explore the latest federal guidance and best practices for creating and sustaining safe and supportive school environments. The presenter will share corresponding strategies, resources, and funding opportunities to enhance safe and supportive learning environments through collaborative, actionable approaches. This session will focus on evidence-based practices district leaders should consider in developing and implementing a comprehensive approach to school safety.
Learning Objectives:
  • Know where to find resources, tools, and best practices for the ongoing enhancement of school safety systems in their school or district.
  • Be an informed consumer when reviewing potential purchases of safety products and services.
  • Understand how to foster a safer learning environment in support of better student outcomes.
  • Be equipped to identify areas for improvement in school safety plans and feel empowered to take action to address any deficiencies.

Speakers:

Don Hough – Deputy Associate Director, Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency School Safety Task Force
Claire Gallet – Program Specialist, Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency School Safety Task Force

From Badges to BYOG: Reinventing Learning, One Grade at a Time

Mineola has transformed traditional structures of grading, assessment, and time into a dynamic, student-centered experience. This session will walk participants through our personalized learning journey—from a PreK–2 badging system that eliminated report cards to our innovative high school model, Build Your Own Grade (BYOG). We will explore how badges, proficiency scales, and scoreboards build student agency across grade levels. Learn how to implement systems where students collect, reflect on, and defend evidence of learning.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will leave with a fresh perspective, practical ideas and tools for redesigning grading and assessment systems in your own context.
  • Learn how to implement systems where students collect, reflect on, and defend evidence of learning.
  • Gain insight into Mineola’s Build Your Own Grade model and how it fosters voice, choice, and self-direction.

Speaker:

Michael P. Nagler, EdD – Superintendent, Mineola Public Schools

AI-Powered Leadership: Crafting a Streamlined Administrative Hiring Process

Discover how Perry Township Schools, a diverse urban district in Indianapolis serving over 16,000 students (69% poverty, 32% ELL), revolutionized administrative hiring with AI. We'll unveil our multistage process, from AI-driven leader profiling and job description updates to video interviews, performance tasks, and AI-coached final rounds. Learn to leverage AI for efficiency, precision, and an exceptional candidate experience. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for integrating AI into hiring, directly enhancing leadership quality and student achievement.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how to leverage AI for efficient leader profiling and job description customization.
  • Learn strategies for integrating AI into multimodal interview processes, including video interviews and performance tasks.
  • Discover how AI can provide real-time coaching feedback to candidates and generate customized interview questions for enhanced evaluation.

Speakers:

Patrick Spray, PhD – Superintendent, Perry Township Schools
Jeff Spencer – Assistant Superintendent of Foundational Learning, Perry Township Schools
Jane Pollard, MA – Assistant Superintendent for Career Preparation, Perry Township Schools
Julie Wolfe, MA – Building Principal, Homecroft Kindergarten Academy, Perry Township Schools
Lee Shively – School Board President, Perry Township Schools
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Improve Efficiency, Understanding, and Implications of School Board Agenda Items and Complex Data
Most districts rushed to use AI for students. Palo Alto USD started with adults. Learn how a superintendent and board member use AI to summarize reports, prepare for meetings, analyze trends, and anticipate reactions to big decisions. This session offers practical, ethical applications of AI to increase efficiency, clarity, and foresight in governance. Discover how AI can support, not replace, human judgment and leadership in real time.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify strategic, real-world uses of AI that improve school board governance and district-level decision-making.
  • Analyze board agendas and materials using AI to assess alignment with stated district goals and priorities.
  • Describe ethical boundaries and responsible practices for using AI in public education leadership.
  • Demonstrate how AI can forecast community, board, and staff responses to major initiatives.
  • Apply AI tools to streamline administrative tasks, freeing time for strategic leadership and communication.

Speakers:

Don Austin – Superintendent of Schools, Palo Alto USD
Shounak Dharap, n/a – Attorney / Member of PAUSD School Board, Palo Alto USD
Schools of Study: Connecting High School Students to Future Professions
Commack High School is pioneering career exploration with its new Schools of Study initiative. Sophomores are required to select from eight pathways, including Medicine, Business, Law, Engineering, and more, tailored to student interests and career goals. The program is supported by a robust course catalog and immersive facilities, including a mock courtroom, Bloomberg financial lab, and a medical simulation space. Participants will learn how to design flexible, student-centered career pathways that allow students to “test drive” careers before graduation.
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the Schools of Study model, cluster courses into career pathways, engage stakeholders, and design plans connecting students to real careers.
  • Identify methods to implement career pathways, develop partnerships with local industries, and support student exploration through internships.
  • Explain strategies to use data for continuous improvement, communicate pathway benefits to families, and foster equitable access to all.

Speaker:

Jordan Cox, EdD – Superintendent, Commack Union Free School District

Our Journey to Pass a Facilities Bond Vote

Hear how we passed our facilities bond on the first try! Colchester School District (VT) serves 2,200 students across five schools and translates communication into over 20 languages. Most of the district's schools are approximately 60 years old, with no major improvements and no school construction aid. Come learn about our strategic approach to educating our community on the need and the bond. Our outreach plan spanned a variety of formats and channels, emphasizing emotional connection and individual storytelling.
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe key elements of a successful school bond communication strategy.
  • Analyze how community engagement builds voter support for bonds.
  • Demonstrate the leadership role in advancing major capital projects.

Speakers:

Amy J. Minor – Superintendent of Schools, Colchester School District
Meghan Baule – Director of Communications, Colchester School District
Lindsey A. Cox – School Board Chair, Colchester School District
Working Smarter With Artificial Intelligence: A Guide for School Board Members
Discover how artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT can streamline school board work — from drafting emails and developing or reviewing policy to managing social media and analyzing legislation. This session, based on real-world use by one of the vice presidents of the board in Utah’s Canyons School District (serving over 32,000 students), offers practical, ethical strategies for integrating AI into individual workflows — no technical expertise required.
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe how AI tools can support school board responsibilities, including communication, policy review, legislative analysis, and public engagement.
  • Identify specific, ethical ways to integrate AI into board member workflows without requiring technical expertise or district-level implementation.
  • Demonstrate how to use AI tools to streamline email writing, social media posts, and public statements for clarity and efficiency.
  • Evaluate the limitations and risks of using AI in public service roles and establish personal guidelines for responsible use.
  • Recognize opportunities to experiment with AI tools to improve time management, communication, and stakeholder engagement in a board governance role.

Speaker:

Andrew J. Edtl, MBA – Vice President, Board of Education, Canyons School District

Restoring Connection: A Strategic and Restorative Approach to Chronic Absenteeism

Chronic absenteeism now signals deeper disconnection and rising costs. This session shows how the Knowlej Partnership helps districts reverse these trends using the 3-R Framework: Re-Engage families, Restore school climate, and Reward progress. Learn actionable strategies, a restorative district framework, and how improving attendance can boost student success and funding recovery through sustainable, community-driven solutions.
Learning Objectives:
  • Participants will be able to define current absenteeism trends.
  • Participants will be able to implement the 3-R Framework to improve student attendance.
  • Participants will be able to implement the 3-R Framework to boost student engagement.

Speaker:

Glynetta Fletcher – Head of Development and Growth, Knowlej

Mapping the Future: Redistricting With Technology, Transparency, and Trust in AACPS

Redistricting is often one of the most contentious processes a school district can undertake. Maryland's Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) transformed this challenge into an opportunity for innovation and trust-building by deploying a custom-built web tool that features interactive geo-mapping, enrollment data, facility utilization, and layered community feedback. This session will showcase how AACPS used cross-departmental collaboration — spanning planning, communications, and board governance — to manage enrollment growth, engage stakeholders, and ensure equitable outcomes. Participants will leave with a blueprint for using technology and transparency to navigate complex boundary decisions.
Learning Objectives:
  • Explore how geo-mapping tools can enhance transparency and public understanding of redistricting proposals.
  • Learn strategies for engaging board members and the public in meaningful dialogue throughout the process.
  • Understand how enrollment data and forecasting can inform boundary decisions and resource allocation.
  • Discover how cross-departmental collaboration strengthens strategic planning and community trust.

Speakers:

Mark Bedell, EdD – Superintendent, Anne Arundel County Public Schools
Bill Heiser, EdD – Chief Operating Officer, Anne Arundel County Public Schools
Driven to Succeed: Strategic Transportation Solutions to Save Money, Serve Better, and Staff Smarter
Amid rising costs and driver shortages, school districts are transforming transportation from a cost center into an innovation hub. This session shares strategies to improve fiscal management, service quality, and workforce stability. Learn from a large suburban district’s success in route optimization, staff recruitment and retention, and equity-focused operations. Attendees will gain practical tools to enhance transportation efficiency, build sustainable teams, and better serve students and families, regardless of district size or location.
Learning Objectives:
  • Analyze cost-saving strategies that improve transportation budget efficiency without sacrificing service quality.
  • Identify best practices for recruiting and retaining qualified transportation staff in diverse districts.
  • Apply operational tactics to enhance transportation service reliability and student-family satisfaction.

Speakers:

Rosalyn Vann-Jackson, MBA, CDPT – Chief Support Services Officer, Broken Arrow Public Schools
Dr. Molly McGee-Hewitt – Executive Director, National Association of Pupil Transportation
Designing Schools for Community Resilience and Positive Educational Outcomes
Integrated Student Supports and Full-Service Community Schools play a crucial role in enhancing student learning and strengthening community resilience. To maximize their impact, these programs must be aligned with supportive facilities and learning environments. Drawing from a multiyear, mixed-methods study on the relationship between schools and their communities, we will explore strategies for transforming schools into hubs of community resilience. Key topics include engaging marginalized voices in the design process, assessing community needs, fostering strategic partnerships, and creating spaces that support both student success and broader community well-being.
Learning Objectives:
  • Identify design principles for schools that support student growth, community use, and strong, lasting partnerships.
  • Explain how community school pillars promote long-term resilience and support social, emotional, and physical well-being.
  • Explore strategies for engaging diverse stakeholders to shape school design and programs that reflect community needs.
  • Recognize traits of schools that serve communities well and identify barriers to equity, access, and inclusion.

Speakers:

Rebecca Milne, LEED Green Associate – Associate Principal, Director of Design Strategy, Perkins Eastman
Bruce Levine, JD – Clinical Professor Emeritus, School of Education, Drexel University
Katrina Struloeff, PhD – Director of Growth & Impact, Catalyst @ Penn GSE, University of Pennsylvania
Sean O'Donnell, FAIA LEED AP – Principal, K-12 Practice Area Leader, Perkins Eastman

Engage IRL: Reclaiming Student Engagement Through Policy, Practice, and Partnerships

Discover how Spokane Public Schools launched a bold initiative to reduce student screen time and boost real-life engagement. Backed by strong board leadership, the district implemented the Engage IRL initiative that sparked increased student participation, improved school culture, and strengthened community connections. Learn how intentional policy design, equitable access to activities, and stakeholder collaboration created a lasting impact. Gain strategies to apply similar change in your own district.
Learning Objectives:
  • Explain the board’s role in adopting and supporting policies that foster real-world student engagement and academic improvement.
  • Identify policy and practice strategies that increase access to in-person activities. improve attendance, grades, and school connectedness.
  • Apply effective approaches to engage families, staff, and community partners in implementing culture shifts tied to technology-use policies.

Speakers:

Nikki L. Otero Lockwood – School Board President, Spokane Public Schools
Becky Ramsey, MA – Executive Director of Assessment, Analytics, and Program Evaluation, Spokane Public Schools
Breaking the Burnout Cycle: Supporting Educator Mental Health to Keep Great People in Education
Educators aren’t just leaving their jobs—they are leaving a calling they once loved. Teacher burnout is driving a costly national exodus—each departure costing districts thousands and impacting student outcomes. This session offers practical, sustainable strategies to support staff well-being. School board members and administrators will explore how strategic changes and cutting-edge resources, including AI supports, can boost morale, support teacher well-being, and promote retention—keeping great educators in our schools.
Learning Objectives:
  • Describe the primary causes of teacher burnout and emotional exhaustion and how they impact educator retention.
  • Identify system-level policies and leadership practices that contribute to a supportive and sustainable work environment for educators.
  • Evaluate the role of school boards and district leadership in implementing staff well-being initiatives.
  • Show how strategic changes and innovative resources boost staff morale, mental wellbeing, and improve teacher performance, recruitment, and retention.
  • Explore the potential of AI-supported tools to reduce administrative burden and enhance teacher connection and support.

Speakers:

Gillian Chapman, EdD – Superintendent, Blue Valley Schools
Michelle Bartsch, MEd – Vice President, Education, Cook Center for Human Connection
Identifying Diverse Learner Needs Through Data Matrices: A Strategic Approach to Support and Enrichment
This session shares how Kerkstra Elementary (Forest Ridge SD 142, IL) transformed from a low-performing school to a National Blue Ribbon School for Exemplary High Performance. Participants will learn how to develop and implement a data matrix to identify learner needs, evaluate the effectiveness of instruction and programs, and calculate academic return on investment (A-ROI). The matrix promotes transparency and impact-focused leadership by aligning decisions with learning gains, cost-per-student, and the number of students served—ensuring strategy and spending are guided by outcomes.
Learning Objectives:
  • To identify patterns in data, analyze diverse learner needs, and develop targeted support and enrichment strategies.
  • To utilize data matrices to monitor progress, differentiate instruction, and collaborate with stakeholders to implement responsive interventions.
  • To interpret trends within student groups, prioritize instructional responses, and evaluate the effectiveness of support and enrichment strategies.

Speakers:

Lori J. Leppert, EdD – Director of Special Services, Forest Ridge School District 142
Heather Rose, CPA/MBA/CSBO – Chief School Business Official, Forest Ridge School District 142
Kristine Roth, EdD – Superintendent, Forest Ridge School District 142
LRE Is Everyone’s Responsibility: Advancing Equity and Inclusion for Students With Disabilities
School boards and district leaders play a critical role in ensuring students — especially those with disabilities — receive appropriate educational services in inclusive settings, to the extent appropriate. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act mandates that students with disabilities be educated in the least restrictive environment (LRE), not only as a matter of legal compliance but also as a cornerstone of educational equity and civil rights. This session will explore why LRE is essential, how it aligns with the core values of public education, and what actionable steps school boards can take to promote inclusive systems.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand the legal and equity-based foundations of LRE, including the impact on educational access for students with disabilities.
  • Reflect on how district policies and system-level structures influence student outcomes.
  • Identify strategies for allocating resources that effectively support inclusive practices across school settings.

Speakers:

Kimberly L. Wooster – Special Populations Consultant, Oakland Schools
Shelley Dickerson, MA – Special Populations Consultant, Oakland Schools
Alex Agius, MEd; Nationally Certified Principal Mentor – District Leadership Consultant, Oakland Schools
Board President’s High School Leadership Curriculum: Becoming a Great Leader With the Board of Education — A curriculum designed for student group presidents who have demonstrated leadership potential
This engaging curriculum targets high school students demonstrating leadership potential, particularly those serving as presidents of organizations. Comprising seven modules led by board members, each session emphasizes leadership qualities through board members' personal stories and real-world insights. Students were required to attend all modules, a board meeting, and complete a community service project presented at a board meeting. Students received community service hours for college. Spring ISD serves 34,000 prekindergarten through 12th-grade students in a diverse district located 20 miles north of central Houston.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how direct engagement from the board enhances students' leadership development.
  • Understand the specific benefits of a structured leadership curriculum for high school students and how it will contribute to student success in college and career readiness.
  • Understand the board's role in students' academic and professional aspirations, contributing to a prepared, capable workforce.

Speakers:

Justine Durant, President – Board of Trustees, Spring Independent School District
Rhonda Newhouse – Trustee, Spring Independent School District
Winford Adams – Trustee, Spring Independent School District
Carmen Correa – Trustee, Spring Independent School District
Tranita Carroll – Executive Director of Family and Community Engagement, Spring Independent School District
The Power of Partnerships With the Career Accelerator Program
Discover how Michigan's Troy School District, serving over 12,000 students in a highly diverse suburban community, launched the Career Accelerator Program (CAP) to connect students with real-world career experiences. Attendees will learn how to build business partnerships, design pre-internship classes and experiences, and leverage their community. Participants will leave with actionable steps to launch or enhance a career-connected learning model in their district.
Learning Objectives:
  • Understand how to design and implement a career-connected learning model that integrates academic coursework with real-world professional experiences.
  • Identify strategies for building and sustaining meaningful business partnerships that enhance student learning and workforce readiness.
  • Develop a framework for engaging district leadership and board members in actively supporting and expanding career readiness initiatives.
  • Analyze key program metrics and data collection methods to measure student impact, business engagement, and overall program effectiveness.
  • Explore cost-effective implementation strategies using in-kind donations, community resources, and existing staff to launch a similar program.

Speakers:

Nancy Philippart, PhD – President, Troy School District Board of Education
Kendra Montante, MEd – Director of Communications and Strategic Initiatives, Troy School District
Christine DiPilato, EdM – Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education, Troy School District
Cruz Control | Believe. Build. Become. | Blueprint to Success Through Student Leadership
Learn how the Pendergast Eighth Grade Superintendent’s Student Council—serving a diverse district of 8,000 students in west Phoenix—empowers students to lead, present, and collaborate with district leadership. Attendees will gain tools to build student leadership capacity, foster engagement with boards and superintendents, and replicate strategies that prepare students for success in high school and beyond. Participants will also explore how student voice can influence district culture and create meaningful school connections.
Learning Objectives:
  • Explain how leadership opportunities prepare students for future educational and professional success.
  • Identify ways to promote student growth through active engagement in leadership and learning experiences.
  • Describe how to integrate student voice into governance structures, including roles for student board members.
  • Demonstrate how to build partnerships through community service and positive district messaging.
  • Summarize the goals and activities of the council, including student travel and university exposure.

Speakers:

Kerry Pohlmeyer – Executive Administrator to the Superintendent & Governing Board, Pendergast Elementary School District
Jennifer Cruz – Superintendent, Pendergast Elementary School District
Raymond Pohlmeyer, MA – Director of Digital Content, Pendergast Elementary School District
Susan Serin – Governing Board Member, Pendergast School District
Monica Granado – Governing Board Member, Pendergast Elementary School District
Martin J. Quezada, JD – Governing Board Member, Pendergast Elementary School District
Hilda Ortega-Rosales – Governing Board Member, Pendergast Elementary School District
Jose Arenas – Governing Board Member, Pendergast Elementary School District
Teaching Across State Lines: The Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
The Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact (ITMC) allows teachers to use an eligible license held in a compact member state to be granted an equivalent license in another compact member state, lowering barriers without reducing standards to teacher mobility and getting teachers back into the classroom more seamlessly. In this session, an update of the current status of the ITMC will be presented, what it is, what it is not, and how states can get involved. Participants will be encouraged to ask questions.
Learning Objectives:
  • Upon completion of attending this session, participants will know, understand, and/or be able to explain the purpose and benefits of the ITMC.
  • Upon completion of attending this session, participants will know, understand, and/or be able to describe how districts can support ITMC adoption.
  • Upon completion of attending this session, participants will know, understand, and/or be able to identify how ITMC improves hiring.

Speaker:

Jimmy Adams – Executive Director, National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification

Site Visits

Experiential Learning Visits offer a rare opportunity to explore education in practice. All attendees will have the opportunity to visit one of the three sites listed below. Buses will depart from the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, April 10. Tickets must be purchased in advance. To register for a site visit, please log into your existing registration and choose from one of the following opportunities.

CUBE/NATCON: $200 | MEMBER STATES: $200 | REGULAR: $225

Join us for an immersive site visit to three innovative San Antonio ISD high school campuses that are redefining secondary education through bold design, strong industry partnerships, and a clear focus on college and career readiness. This visit will focus on the CAST Network and the Alamo Collegiate Network, programs that have come out of the Texas Senate’s 1882 Bill, which allows traditional schools to partner with outside entities like universities and nonprofits. These campuses will demonstrate how public school systems can align academics, workforce preparation, and student engagement in powerful and scalable ways.

This site visit will highlight how industry certifications, early college models, fine arts integration, and strong community partnerships come together to create transformative, student-centered learning environments. Participants will leave with concrete insights and governance-level takeaways on how these strategies can be adapted and replicated in districts across the country.

·       CAST Tech High School
Through a partnership with the Centers for Applied Science and Technology (CAST Schools), discover how technology, business, and entrepreneurship intersect to prepare students for high-demand careers in emerging industries. Participants will explore interdisciplinary pathways that integrate coding, cybersecurity, digital innovation, and real-world business projects, developed in collaboration with industry partners. Learn how CAST Tech leverages applied learning, mentorship, and authentic problem-solving to connect classroom instruction with workforce needs.

·       Advanced Learning Academy (ALA)
Through a partnership with CAST, see project-based learning and personalized instruction in action at ALA, where students engage in rigorous, inquiry-driven coursework designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. This opportunity will highlight how ALA empowers students to design and implement solutions to real-world challenges while developing transferable skills essential for postsecondary success.

·       Fox Tech High School
Through a partnership with the Alamo Collegiate Network, step inside an early college high school model with a focused pathway leading to an Associate of Science in Nursing. Learn how Fox Tech blends rigorous academics, college-level coursework, and hands-on clinical preparation to equip students for careers in nursing and the broader medical field. Board members will gain insight into how early college partnerships can accelerate postsecondary attainment while expanding access to high-wage, high-demand professions.

Join us for an in-depth site visit to Sydney Lanier High School, where innovation drives a comprehensive approach to college, career, and military readiness. Through thoughtfully designed pathways, hands-on learning experiences, and strategic partnerships with higher education, industry, and the military, Lanier demonstrates how public schools can expand postsecondary options while maintaining high expectations for all students. This visit offers school board members a firsthand look at how innovative program design translates into meaningful outcomes for students across college, career, and military pathways.

This site visit highlights how Sydney Lanier High School equips students with industry certifications, college credits, leadership skills, and real-world experience — ensuring graduates are prepared for success in college, career, or military service. Participants will leave with actionable insights into how comprehensive college, career, and military readiness strategies can be governed, supported, and scaled across diverse districts.

As part of this experience, you will see and learn about the following programs:

·       Army JROTC Cybersecurity Pilot Program
Witness a groundbreaking initiative that uniquely combines leadership development with advanced cybersecurity training. As one of only 11 pilot sites in the United States, Lanier’s Army JROTC Cybersecurity Program provides students with real-world experience in networking, cyber defense, and digital security. Participants will learn how students earn industry-recognized certifications that position them for success in military service, postsecondary education, and high-demand technology careers.

·       Construction and Automotive P-TECH Pathways
Explore state-of-the-art construction and automotive labs where students develop technical expertise aligned to workforce needs. Through P-TECH partnerships with St. Philip’s College, students earn college credit while mastering industry-relevant skills in the construction trades and automotive technology. This portion of the visit will highlight how early college and career pathways accelerate credential attainment and strengthen regional talent pipelines.

·       Work-Based Learning: Graphic Design and Print Shop
See applied learning in action as students operate a fully functional, self-funded graphic design and print shop. Serving real clients, students gain hands-on experience in design, production, customer service, and entrepreneurship while earning industry-based certifications. Board members will gain insight into how work-based learning models can be embedded into the school day to enhance engagement and sustainability.

·       Health Science Programs
Step into classrooms where future healthcare professionals prepare for careers in medical assisting, medical technology, and allied health fields. Learn how Lanier aligns instruction, certifications, and career exposure to meet growing workforce demands in the healthcare sector.

·       Law Enforcement Program
Discover how students prepare for careers in criminal justice and public safety through hands-on training, coursework, and industry-aligned certifications. This pathway demonstrates how schools can responsibly partner with public safety agencies to provide meaningful career exploration and skill development.

Join us for an exclusive site visit to San Antonio ISD’s Mark Twain Dual Language Academy, a nationally recognized model for bilingual education.

Developed through a Texas Senate 1882 grant partnership with The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), a national leader in bilingual education research, educator preparation, and instructional innovation, the Twain Dual Language Academy exemplifies how strategic higher education partnerships can elevate program quality while building sustainable, districtwide capacity.

At the Academy, students participate in a rigorous two-way dual language program in English and Spanish beginning in the earliest grades. This research-based approach intentionally develops biliteracy, biculturalism, and high academic achievement while fostering the global competencies students need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

During this site visit, participants will:

  • Observe high-quality dual language instruction in action, as students learn grade-level academic content in both English and Spanish using proven, research-based instructional strategies.
  • Explore the UTSA partnership model, including how the university supports curriculum design, instructional coaching, and ongoing professional development to ensure program fidelity and continuous improvement.
  • Learn how SAISD has built a scalable and sustainable dual language framework, aligned to community needs and workforce trends, that districts can adapt and replicate.

This visit offers school board members a rare opportunity to see dual language education implemented with depth, intentionality, and measurable impact. Participants will leave with actionable governance-level insights and practical strategies to strengthen bilingual programming, expand access, and elevate outcomes for multilingual learners in their own districts.

Registration Fees

Registration Registration Deadline State Association Staff/Officers; NATCON & CUBE Districts; COSA Members Districts in Member State Associations Unaffiliated School Board Members & General Public Corporate Guest (Includes General Session & Exhibit Hall)
Advanced Early Bird Dec. 5, 2025 $715 $935 $1,020 $1,500 $200
Early Bird Jan. 16, 2026 $825 $1,045 $1,160 $1,500 $200
Standard April 9, 2026 $935 $1,160 $1,375 $1,500 $200
Onsite April 10-12, 2026 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500 $200

State Association Staff/Officers; NATCON, CUBE, & COSA Districts: $475

Unaffiliated School Board Member & General Public: $575

State Association Staff/Officers; NATCON & CUBE Districts, COSA Members: $250

Unaffiliated School Board Member & General Public: $250

Online access includes three live-streamed keynote sessions and on-demand access to select keynote recordings.

State Association Staff/Officers; NATCON& CUBE Districts; COSA Members: Complimentary

Unaffiliated School Board Member & General Public: $100

*In-person conference attendees only.

Conference Information

Cancellations & Refunds for Registration will be accepted through Thursday, February 26, 2026 with a full refund less a $175 processing fee.

Registration Cancellations received on or after Friday, February 27, 2026 will not be refunded.

No-shows will not receive a refund. All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to NSBA: memberservices@nsba.org. Refunds will be processed within one week of request. NSBA is not responsible for airfare, hotel, or other costs incurred by participants in the event of program or registration cancellation.

If you need to make any changes to your hotel reservation, please contact the NSBA Registration & Hotel Support Center or by phone at (800) 616-8210 (U.S. & Canada) or (415) 979-2264 (International). The hotel reservation cancellation deadline is Friday, March 20, 2026. Cancellations on or after Friday, March 20, 2026 will forfeit the deposit or will be charged an amount equal to one night’s room and tax.

In registering you acknowledge and agree to the NSBA Annual Conference Terms and Conditions.

Looking to relax and have some fun after a long day of learning? San Antonio’s rich culture, historic landmarks, and vibrant River Walk will make your conference experience truly unforgettable. Click here to access special offers and discounts on popular San Antonio attractions.

You must be registered for the conference before you can reserve housing. All reservations should be made prior to March 21, 2026. Room availability and conference rates cannot be guaranteed after this date.

Click here to view hotel map.