Professional development conferences give educators and school leaders unique opportunities to stay abreast of the latest trends, innovations, and strategies shaping the future of K-12 education.
Teachers gain access to a wealth of knowledge and resources that invigorate their teaching practices, enrich their classrooms, and, ultimately, enhance student outcomes.
Through engaging with fellow professionals, educators gain valuable insights into diverse teaching methods, cultural considerations, and regional challenges, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the nuances inherent in education. This allows teachers to hone their leadership skills as they learn from colleagues and present their own methods and practices.
As you plan out 2024, be sure to make time for professional development and enhancing your leadership abilities. Here’s a list of our can’t-miss education conferences, along with a glimpse of our participation from 2023! Stay tuned to see what we bring to 2024.
National conferences
For: Teachers and school and district leaders
Where: Austin, TX
When: March 4–7, 2024
Focusing on “innovation and learning in the education industry,” SXSW EDU attracts educators from around the world to participate in a diverse array of sessions, including mentorship opportunities, film screenings, competitions, and more. Last year, Participate Learning’s own Ashley Solesbee led a mentor session on Global Leaders!
For: Teachers, coaches, specialists, and school and district leaders
Where: Denver, CO
When: June 23–26, 2024
ISTELive brings together ISTE’s global community of educators for “one of the world’s most comprehensive edtech events.” Attendees can expect to learn practical strategies for immediate implementation in their school or district and have the opportunity to connect with other members of the community. In 2023, fifth-year Participate Learning Ambassador Teacher Maria Phillips and Ashley Solesbee hosted an interactive design sprint focused on creating global action projects.
Leadership
For: District administrators, school leaders, and administrators
Where: Pinehurst, NC
When: January 31–February 2, 2024
The 2024 NCASCD Annual Conference has a comprehensive agenda packed with sessions aimed at enhancing educational practices. This event promises to be a hub of learning and inspiration, equipping educators with innovative strategies and insights for transforming their methodologies and nurturing a positive school culture. Participate Learning had the opportunity to partner with Edenton-Chowan Schools in their presentation on Global Leaders in their schools at the 2023 conference.
For: Women in educational leadership in Virginia
Where: Richmond, VA
When: March 14–15, 2024
This year, Women Education Leaders in Virginia (WELV) celebrates 25 years of supporting women in education across Virginia. With the theme “HERstory: 25 Years of Lifting and Leading,” the conference will host a number of inspiring speakers and offer workshops and networking opportunities.
Language learning
For: K-20 world language and K-12 dual language immersion educators
Where: Winston-Salem, NC
When: October 5–6, 2024
Planning for the 2024 FLANC Fall Conference has begun, with proposal submissions opening on January 8. This year’s theme is “Cultivating for Tomorrow!” and presentations will focus on the future of growing and supporting world language programs. FLANC 2023 included presentations on the science of reading and math thinking skills by three Participate Learning Ambassador Teachers.
National Chinese Language Conference
For: Chinese language educators
Where: Mountain View, CA
When: May 2, 2024
This year, NCLC, co-organized by Asia Society Education and Asia Society Northern California, takes on the theme “Mandarin Education in a Transformative Era.” The conference will remain true to the theme by featuring leaders in the tech industry and sessions on “how technology is reshaping language educational landscapes.”
International Conference on Immersion and Dual Language Education
For: Language educators in a variety of contexts: ESL, world language, immersion, and more
Where: Salt Lake City, UT
When: October 2–5, 2024
Hosted by the University of Utah’s Second Language Teaching and Research Center (L2TReC), the 2024 International Conference on Immersion and Dual Language Education focuses on “Multilingualism for All: Transforming Education One Community at a Time.” This conference is a global platform for experts and educators of all languages and instructional levels to exchange insights and strategies.
For: Dual language educators and leaders
Where: Santa Fe, NM
When: November 13–16, 2024
Started in 1996 by Dolores Gonzales Elementary School teachers, La Cosecha Conference celebrates the work of individuals supporting and benefiting dual language education. This event provides attendees with insightful sessions and networking opportunities in a dynamic, supportive environment. Last year’s agenda included a session on word study and writing games for dual language (DL) classrooms, presented by three Participate Learning DL program managers.
For: Language educators and leaders
Where: Philadelphia, PA
When: November 22–24, 2024
The ACTFL Annual Convention is one of the largest events in the language education field. Professionals from all areas of language learning attend to enhance their skills and knowledge through sessions on “innovative programs, emerging trends, and research-informed practices.” In 2023, three of Participate Learning’s DL program managers shared DL learning strategies for attendees to add to their toolbox.
Any of these conferences (and many others!) are a great way to energize your teaching and stay up to date on the latest ideas and trends in education. For more ways to develop your teaching and leadership skills, see “Four Ways to Position Yourself as a School Leader in the New Year.”
