Join co-facilitators Dr. Rachel Edoho-Eket and Sophia Mendoza for an exclusive, principals-only exchange designed for real talk and high-impact connection. Come prepared to share experiences, tackle your most pressing challenges, and learn alongside fellow leaders in an informal environment. You’ll dive into the topics that matter most to you right now and leave with a strengthened network of colleagues and fresh ideas to take back to your campus.

The Tuesday Mainstage at ISTELive and ASCD Annual Conference 26 is must-attend! With the theme of “Develop Expertise,” this session examines how educators can help students build essential skills by creating spaces where they see themselves in learning, share their stories, and develop the confidence to author their own futures.

Plus, Resident Librarian for PBS and PBS Kids, and “Reading Rainbow” Host Mychal Threets shares how educators can foster student agency and engagement by amplifying student voice. Drawing from his advocacy for libraries and literacy, Threets inspires educators to cultivate inclusive environments where learners find representation, their voices are amplified, and they’re empowered to build the futures of their dreams. Whether you’re a teacher or leader, you’ll walk away with practical takeaways you can implement immediately.

This session will also feature Rachel Edoho-Eket, Ed.D. and Jason Trinh delivering educator spotlight talks that bring real characters, tension, and a moment of magic to life. Their experiences capture what it looks like when evidence-based practice meets intentional teaching, and students build skills and knowledge that last. This session will also feature an appearance from ISTE+ASCD Board President Jeremy S. Owoh, Ed.D..

Salsa took root in Central Florida as early as the 1960s, carried here by the waves of Hispanic and Latino families who made Orlando home. Today, the city boasts one of the most vibrant salsa scenes in the country, and at Moova Dance, they celebrate salsa as far more than a dance form. It's a living expression of culture, identity, and community. Plan to be in your seat 30 minutes early so you don't miss a moment of the pre-session entertainment.

Education works best when families and schools are in sync yet building that bond has never been more complex. Between shifting community expectations, increased alternative schooling options, and a growing "techlash," leaders must work harder than ever before to build connections with families and deepen trust. In this session, we’ll explore how to move beyond basic communication from education leaders who are pushing beyond the status quo to ensure families feel heard, valued, and equipped to support their children’s learning journey.

What's behind the ideas shaping education today? Find out during EL Authors Live! — a series of quick, candid 20-minute conversations where ISTE+ASCD Community Leaders sit down with authors from Educational Leadership magazine to dig into their work. In this session, Superintendent Teresa Hill talks with Rachel Edoho-Eket about how school leaders can pare down priorities and streamline initiatives for real change, based on her article in the December 2025/January 2026 issue, "The Power of Less."

Join this energizing session for educators seeking fresh, practical strategies to prevent burnout and joy! Discover ways to set boundaries, manage stress, and prioritize self-care without guilt. Through interactive discussions, you’ll leave with tools and a personalized plan to lead with balance. Connect with peers and leave recharged!