Join us for the Opening Mainstage at ISTELive and ASCD Annual Conference 26! Exploring our daily theme of “Spark Curiosity,” this session invites educators to embrace the questions, uncertainty, and wonder that fuel learning and leading in times of change. ISTE+ASCD CEO Richard Culatta takes the stage to unite attendees around a shared vision for the future of education, exploring what it truly means to transform teaching and learning. He'll also unpack the shifting role of technology in schools, cutting through the noise to focus on what matters most for educators and students in a changing landscape.

Then, bestselling author, leadership expert, and LinkedIn Global Voice for Education Heather McGowan unpacks how educators and leaders can thrive in an era of relentless change. Through storytelling, she reveals why learning, unlearning, and re-learning have become the essential rhythm of work itself. McGowan explains how to build cultures where people recognize when they've outgrown their roles, embrace the discomfort of not knowing, and move forward together with intrinsic motivation and support. Learn how to transform uncertainty from a threat into a strategic advantage by activating your students’ and staff’s distinctly human capabilities of adaptability, empathy, and curiosity.

This session will also feature Nyshawana Francis-Thompson, Ed.D. and Brandie Wright delivering powerful 5-minute storytelling performances that spark emotion and connection. Their stories illuminate what's possible when curiosity is ignited, and how the right conditions can open entirely new pathways for students to engage and express themselves.

Don't miss a short talk from Jose Dotres, Ed.D., Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, as well as an appearance from ISTE+ASCD Board President Jeremy S. Owoh, Ed.D..

Orlando ranks among Florida's top three cities for its Indian population, making it a natural home for Bollywood dance, an electrifying fusion of traditional classical movement and contemporary styles. Maryann Michael Studios channels that vibrant energy as an international dance studio bringing Bollywood and diverse dance forms to the heart of the community. Arrive 30 minutes before the session begins to experience this incredible performance live on the Mainstage.

Join ISTE+ASCD Board members and fellow conference attendees for an interactive conversation about designing the future of learning. As education continues to evolve, educators and leaders are navigating new opportunities and challenges related to innovation, technology, student engagement, and learner success. Through guided discussion and peer exchange, participants will share insights from their own contexts, explore strategies that are making a difference, and discuss how ISTE+ASCD resources and professional learning can support meaningful impact in schools and communities. Discussion 1: As you think about designing the future of learning in your role, what opportunities and challenges are you experiencing? Discussion 2: What strategies, resources, or professional learning experiences are helping you address those challenges and create meaningful learning opportunities for students?

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.

Join Jeremy Owoh, Ed.D., ISTE+ASCD Board President and fellow Superintendent at North Pulaski School District, for an exclusive meet-up designed just for Superintendents. Pull up a chair, share what's on your mind, and connect with peers who understand the weight and the reward of the work. This is your space for honest, open conversation — no presentations, just people.

Everyone talks about the leadership shortage, and growing leaders is a challenge. This conversation moves beyond the problem and explores how schools and districts are intentionally spotting talent early, creating real pathways for growth, and building cultures where developing people is simply how they operate. Our panelists will share what's actually working and what it takes to drive leadership development in practice.

AI’s greatest potential isn’t just efficiency—it’s student growth. In this practical session, Dr. Owoh and his team from Jacksonville North Pulaski share how they used AI to boost math achievement, equity, and engagement. Learn superintendent-tested playbooks for aligning AI with board goals, accountability plans, and measurable districtwide improvement.

To support great teaching and learning, it's essential to provide guidance not only on effective instructional practices, but also on how to sustain successes in your district. These award-winning panelists will share dynamic PD programs and successful initiatives that have impacted staff, students and/or their communities.