FETC 2026: AI Takes Center Stage in Orlando — A Full Conference Report
By Sarah Mitchell · EdTech Director, Lakewood School District · January 22, 2026
The Big Picture
Walking into the Orange County Convention Center on January 13th, the energy was palpable. Over 10,000 educators, administrators, and edtech vendors descended on Orlando for what many are calling the most consequential FETC in years. The theme — "Teaching in the Age of AI" — wasn't just marketing. It was the undercurrent of nearly every session, demo, and hallway conversation.
After four intense days, 23 sessions, and more vendor demos than I can count, here's my full breakdown of what happened, what mattered, and what it means for your school.
Day 1: Setting the Tone
The opening keynote set the pace immediately. Dr. Lisa Chen from Stanford's HAI Lab delivered a nuanced talk on "Guardrails, Not Gates" — arguing that schools need AI usage policies that enable exploration rather than shut it down. The audience was clearly split; the Q&A went 20 minutes over as educators debated acceptable use in elementary vs. secondary settings.
The exhibit hall opened at noon and the first thing you noticed was the sheer number of AI-focused booths. I counted at least 40 vendors specifically marketing AI tools for education — up from maybe 12 at FETC 2025. The standouts on Day 1:
MagicSchool AI had the biggest booth presence, demoing their new rubric generator and lesson differentiator
SchoolAI showcased their student-facing AI assistant with teacher guardrails
Canva for Education announced their AI-powered presentation builder for students
Day 2: The Sessions That Mattered
If I had to pick the single best session of the entire conference, it was "From Panic to Policy: How 12 Districts Built AI Frameworks in 90 Days" led by a panel of CTOs from Florida, Texas, and California districts. They shared actual policy documents, implementation timelines, and — most valuably — the mistakes they made along the way.
Key takeaway: The districts that succeeded started with teacher advisory committees before writing a single line of policy. The ones that struggled tried to write policy in a vacuum and faced immediate pushback.
Other notable sessions:
"Beyond ChatGPT: AI Tools Your Teachers Actually Need" — packed room, practical demos of 8 tools specifically designed for educators
"The Accessibility Revolution: How AI is Closing Gaps" — emotional presentations from special education teachers showing real student outcomes
"Data Privacy in the AI Era" — a sobering look at what student data AI tools are actually collecting
Day 3: The Surprise Keynote
The buzz of the conference was Sal Khan's surprise appearance during the Day 3 afternoon keynote slot. He demoed Khanmigo's new features including real-time tutoring adjustments based on student emotion detection (via text analysis, not facial recognition — he was clear about that distinction).
The most powerful moment: he showed a live interaction between Khanmigo and a struggling 8th-grade algebra student, where the AI identified a foundational gap in fraction understanding and pivoted the lesson in real-time. Teachers in the audience were audibly impressed.
The Exhibit Hall: Winners and Trends
I spent at least 6 hours total on the exhibit floor. Here's what I noticed:
Trend 1: AI Copilots for Teachers. At least 15 vendors are building AI assistants specifically for lesson planning, grading, and parent communication. The market is getting crowded, and differentiation is becoming harder.
Trend 2: Student-Facing AI with Guardrails. The conversation has shifted from "should students use AI?" to "how do we give them safe, productive AI access?" Multiple platforms now offer teacher-controlled AI environments.
Trend 3: Interoperability Finally Matters. LTI 1.3 and OneRoster adoption were featured in multiple vendor pitches. Schools are tired of siloed tools, and vendors are finally listening.
Trend 4: Physical + Digital. Several vendors showcased hardware-software combos: interactive displays with built-in AI assistants, robotics kits with AI programming environments, and AR/VR setups that have finally become affordable enough for classroom deployment.
What I'm Taking Back to My District
Every conference, I try to leave with three actionable items. Here's what I'm bringing home from FETC 2026:
Form an AI Advisory Committee — Including teachers, parents, students, and IT. Start with listening, not policy-writing.
Pilot SchoolAI in two middle schools — The guardrails and teacher dashboard convinced me this is ready for a controlled rollout.
Rethink our PD model — The "coach the coaches" approach presented by Broward County is exactly what we need. Train 10 teacher leaders deeply rather than 200 teachers superficially.
The Bottom Line
FETC 2026 made one thing clear: AI in education isn't coming — it's here. The schools that are thriving aren't the ones with the biggest budgets or the newest devices. They're the ones with thoughtful leadership, empowered teachers, and a willingness to experiment within clear boundaries.
If you missed FETC this year, I'd strongly encourage you to start planning for FETC 2027 now. The early-bird pricing is already live, and based on the trajectory, next year will be even bigger.
A comprehensive directory of 400+ K-12 education conferences worldwide (also written K12 conferences). Filter by topic, location, and date on the interactive directory.
Dates: Feb 12–14, 2026 · Location: Nashville, TN, USA · Pricing: $895–$1,295
Topics: Leadership & Admin, Policy & Equity
The premier gathering for K-12 superintendents and school system leaders. Features policy sessions, leadership development, and national education reform discussions.
Dates: Apr 27–30, 2026 · Location: João Pessoa, Brazil · Pricing: TBD
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Research & Higher Ed
Brazil's largest distance education congress, bringing together researchers, educators, and institutions exploring online and hybrid learning models across Latin America.
The American Educational Research Association's flagship event. Thousands of researchers present peer-reviewed studies on teaching, learning, equity, and education policy.
Focused exclusively on AI tools in classroom practice. Practical workshops help teachers and instructional coaches integrate generative AI responsibly into daily lessons.
Dates: Feb 11, 2026 · Location: Stanford, CA, USA · Pricing: Free–$200
Topics: AI & Emerging Tech, Policy & Equity
Hosted by Stanford HAI, this research-forward summit convenes AI scientists, educators, and policymakers to shape how artificial intelligence is developed and deployed in learning environments.
Dates: Jul 11–14, 2026 · Location: New Orleans, LA, USA · Pricing: $400–$700
Topics: Student Support & Wellbeing
The American School Counselor Association's national event. Addresses student mental health, college and career readiness, and the evolving role of school counselors.
Dates: Nov 4–7, 2026 · Location: Nashville, TN, USA · Pricing: $300–$550
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum
Dedicated entirely to grades 5–9, this conference supports middle school educators with research-based practices, student engagement strategies, and curriculum development.
Dates: Apr 6–8, 2026 · Location: San Diego, CA, USA · Pricing: $2,495–$3,495
Topics: Business & Investment, EdTech & Innovation
The edtech industry's top executive summit. Investors, CEOs, university presidents, and district leaders convene to discuss the future of learning and workforce development.
Dates: Feb 2026 · Location: Washington, DC, USA · Pricing: $400–$700
Topics: Research & Higher Ed, Teaching & Curriculum
The Advanced Technological Education program's annual meeting for NSF-funded projects. Centers on STEM technician education at community colleges and workforce pipelines.
Dates: Jan 28–31, 2026 · Location: Orlando, FL, USA · Pricing: $500–$900
Topics: Special Ed & Inclusion, EdTech & Innovation
The world's largest assistive technology conference. Sessions cover AT tools for students with disabilities, AAC devices, universal design for learning, and accessibility compliance.
Built for technology leaders in independent schools. Covers IT strategy, cybersecurity, learning management systems, and technology governance in private K-12 settings.
Asia-Pacific's leading education technology exhibition. Connects edtech vendors, ministries of education, and school leaders across Southeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
Dates: May 5–8, 2026 · Location: São Paulo, Brazil · Pricing: TBD
Topics: EdTech & Innovation
The Brazilian edition of the global BETT brand. Features edtech product showcases, policy dialogues, and professional development for educators across Brazil and Latin America.
Dates: Jan 21–24, 2026 · Location: London, UK · Pricing: Free–£500
Topics: EdTech & Innovation
One of the world's largest edtech trade shows with 600+ exhibitors and 30,000+ attendees. Covers classroom technology, AI in education, safeguarding, and global school leadership.
User conference for schools running Blackbaud platforms (Raiser's Edge, Veracross, etc.). Focuses on database management, fundraising, enrollment, and financial aid workflows.
A Midwest-focused edtech conference for K-20 educators. Emphasizes hands-on technology integration, innovative instructional strategies, and collaborative professional learning.
Dates: Feb 2026 · Location: Denver, CO, USA · Pricing: $150–$300
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum
Colorado's reading and literacy association conference. Focuses on evidence-based literacy instruction, reading intervention, and language arts curriculum for K-12 educators.
Dates: Feb 4–7, 2026 · Location: Chicago, IL, USA · Pricing: $400–$700
Topics: Special Ed & Inclusion
The Council for Exceptional Children's national convention — the leading conference for special education professionals, covering IEPs, inclusive practices, learning disabilities, and gifted education.
Dates: Mar 4–6, 2026 · Location: Mexico City, Mexico · Pricing: TBD
Topics: Policy & Equity, Teaching & Curriculum
Hosted by Universidad Anáhuac, this international congress explores educational quality, pedagogical innovation, and values-based education across Latin America.
Dates: Mar 2026 · Location: Washington, DC, USA · Pricing: $950–$1,400
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Leadership & Admin
The Consortium for School Networking's flagship event for K-12 technology executives. Addresses broadband, cybersecurity, AI policy, data privacy, and technology leadership in school districts.
Dates: Jan 2026 · Location: Nashville, TN, USA · Pricing: $300–$500
Topics: Leadership & Admin
Brings together school business administrators, CFOs, and operations leaders. Topics include school finance, facilities, procurement, HR compliance, and budget management.
California's leading edtech conference for K-12 educators. Strong focus on Google Workspace, Apple, and Microsoft tools, alongside digital citizenship, coding, and classroom innovation.
Dates: Oct 19–21, 2026 · Location: Atlanta, GA, USA · Pricing: $400–$800
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Policy & Equity
Focuses on K-12 digital learning policy and practice. Explores online learning programs, state digital learning initiatives, and competency-based pathways.
Topics: Special Ed & Inclusion, Teaching & Curriculum
Mexico's congress on Universal Design for Learning. Addresses inclusive education frameworks, accessibility in curriculum, and strategies for diverse learner populations.
Dates: Oct 12–15, 2026 · Location: New York, NY, USA · Pricing: $500–$1,500
Topics: Business & Investment, EdTech & Innovation
New York City's edtech industry week. A series of events, panels, and networking sessions connecting founders, investors, district buyers, and higher education leaders.
Dates: May 12–13, 2026 · Location: London, UK · Pricing: £500–£1,200
Topics: Business & Investment, EdTech & Innovation
A London-based international forum for edtech entrepreneurs, investors, and institutional leaders. Sessions cover EdTech venture funding, global market expansion, and product innovation.
Dates: Jan 2026 · Location: Philadelphia, PA, USA · Pricing: $175–$350
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum
An intimate, conversation-driven conference held at Science Leadership Academy. Focuses on progressive pedagogy, student agency, and reimagining school culture — no vendor booths.
A Mexican education festival celebrating innovation in teaching and learning. Features talks, workshops, and exhibitions for educators across all grade levels.
Asia's largest education technology event. Attracts higher education and K-12 leaders from across ASEAN, featuring technology showcases, research presentations, and policy panels.
Dates: Jun 3–4, 2026 · Location: Sydney, Australia · Pricing: AUD $800–$1,500
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, AI & Emerging Tech
Australia and New Zealand's premier education technology conference. Covers AI in learning, digital transformation of universities, and emerging classroom technologies.
Spain's leading edtech congress, bringing together educators, startups, and institutions from across the Spanish-speaking world to explore digital transformation in education.
Dates: Jan 13–16, 2026 · Location: Orlando, FL, USA · Pricing: $599–$999
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, AI & Emerging Tech
One of the longest-running edtech conferences in the US. Serves K-12 educators, administrators, and IT directors with hundreds of sessions on classroom technology, AI tools, and digital leadership.
Dates: Mar 2–3, 2026 · Location: Boise, ID, USA · Pricing: $100–$200
Topics: Leadership & Admin
A virtual conference for Idaho school administrators covering state-specific policy, school law, finance, and leadership topics in a casual, accessible online format.
Illinois's premier edtech conference. Focused on innovative instructional technology, digital tools, and professional learning for K-12 educators across the state.
Features conferences on innovative teaching, at-risk students, school leadership, school discipline, social-emotional learning, and AI/Tech in schools.
Dates: Mar 12–15, 2026 · Location: Orlando, FL, USA · Pricing: $400–$800
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum, Leadership & Admin
Brings together K-12 administrators and teachers focused on innovative learning models: project-based learning, competency education, school climate, and at-risk student strategies.
Dates: Jul 21–23, 2026 · Location: Louisville, KY, USA · Pricing: Free for customers
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Research & Higher Ed
Instructure's annual user conference for Canvas LMS customers. Covers Canvas features, integrations, assessment design, and best practices for K-12 and higher ed institutions.
An international academic congress presenting research and innovation in education across Latin America, spanning pedagogy, education technology, and institutional reform.
The merger of two giants — ISTE (edtech) and ASCD (curriculum and instruction). Thousands of sessions spanning educational technology, leadership, instructional design, and equity.
Dates: Jun 1–3, 2026 · Location: San Francisco, CA, USA · Pricing: $600–$1,000
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Research & Higher Ed
1EdTech's annual gathering for ed-tech interoperability leaders. Focuses on LTI, QTI, open standards, and how institutions can build connected, data-sharing technology ecosystems.
Dates: Mar 1–3, 2026 · Location: Springfield, MO, USA · Pricing: $150–$300
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum, Leadership & Admin
Missouri's professional learning community conference. Focuses on teacher coaching, instructional leadership, and building collaborative learning cultures in schools.
Dates: Mar 2026 · Location: Las Vegas, NV, USA · Pricing: $250–$450
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum
A national literacy conference for reading specialists, curriculum coaches, and classroom teachers. Emphasizes the science of reading and evidence-based literacy instruction.
Dates: Jun 15–19, 2026 · Location: London, UK · Pricing: Free–£1,500
Topics: Business & Investment, EdTech & Innovation
A week-long series of events across London covering edtech investment, workforce learning, and global education innovation. EdTechX is its flagship investor and CEO summit.
Michigan's leading educational technology conference. Practical, teacher-centered sessions on digital learning tools, Google and Microsoft integrations, and instructional coaching.
Dates: Mar 2026 · Location: Orlando, FL, USA · Pricing: $300–$600
Topics: Policy & Equity, Teaching & Curriculum
The National Association for Bilingual Education's annual conference. Focuses on English language learner instruction, bilingual program design, and language policy advocacy.
Dates: Jun 9–11, 2026 · Location: Denver, CO, USA · Pricing: $700–$1,200
Topics: Research & Higher Ed, Business & Investment
Connects college career services professionals with corporate recruiters. Topics include internship programs, early talent pipelines, salary benchmarking, and campus recruiting trends.
Dates: Feb 2026 · Location: Atlanta, GA, USA · Pricing: $900–$1,400
Topics: Leadership & Admin, Policy & Equity
The National Association of Independent Schools' flagship conference for private school heads, trustees, and administrators. Focuses on school sustainability, diversity, and strategic leadership.
Dates: Feb 17–20, 2026 · Location: New Orleans, LA, USA · Pricing: $300–$600
Topics: Student Support & Wellbeing
The National Association of School Psychologists' convention. Covers mental health support systems, trauma-informed practices, crisis intervention, and psychological assessment in schools.
Dates: Jun 22–24, 2026 · Location: Austin, TX, USA · Pricing: $400–$700
Topics: Policy & Equity, Research & Higher Ed
Hosted by CCSSO, this conference brings together state assessment directors, test developers, and policy leaders focusing on statewide testing design, accountability systems, and data use.
Dates: Jan 2026 · Location: Nashville, TN, USA · Pricing: $300–$500
Topics: Policy & Equity, Leadership & Admin
Focused on Title I and ESEA implementation. Connects federal program directors, equity advocates, and district administrators working with high-need and underserved student populations.
Dates: Oct 19–21, 2026 · Location: San Antonio, TX, USA · Pricing: $200–$400
Topics: Policy & Equity, Leadership & Admin
Addresses the unique challenges of rural school districts: teacher recruitment, broadband access, small district funding, and community-connected learning models.
Dedicated to microschools, learning pods, and hybrid school models. Practitioners share what works in non-traditional learning environments blending home and classroom instruction.
Dates: Feb 24–26, 2026 · Location: Albuquerque, NM, USA · Pricing: $500–$900
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Leadership & Admin
Focused exclusively on cybersecurity threats facing school districts. Covers ransomware attacks, data breaches, student data privacy, and how district IT leaders can build resilient defenses.
Dates: Mar 30–Apr 1, 2026 · Location: San Diego, CA, USA · Pricing: $300–$600
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum, Research & Higher Ed
Hosted by High Tech High Graduate School of Education. Focuses on networked improvement communities, design thinking in schools, and using evidence to drive systemic change.
The Northwest Council for Computer Education's annual conference. Serving K-12 educators in the Pacific Northwest with practical sessions on coding, digital tools, and instructional technology.
The National Catholic Educational Association's annual conference. Addresses faith-based education, Catholic school leadership, curriculum standards, and mission-centered school culture.
Dates: Jun 24–26, 2026 · Location: New Orleans, LA, USA · Pricing: $600–$1,000
Topics: Leadership & Admin, Policy & Equity
The country's largest gathering for charter school leaders, operators, and advocates. Sessions cover school quality, authorizing, equity, facilities, and federal charter school policy.
Dates: Nov 19–22, 2026 · Location: Philadelphia, PA, USA · Pricing: $200–$400
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum, Policy & Equity
The National Council of Teachers of English annual gathering. Brings together English and language arts educators for sessions on writing instruction, literature, media literacy, and equity.
Dates: Mar 2026 · Location: Raleigh, NC, USA · Pricing: $200–$400
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, AI & Emerging Tech
North Carolina's technology in education conference. Features hands-on workshops on digital tools, AI, coding, and instructional design for K-12 teachers and technology coaches.
Dates: Oct 28–31, 2026 · Location: Denver, CO, USA · Pricing: $350–$600
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum, Research & Higher Ed
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' flagship conference. Research sessions, workshops, and exhibits covering math curriculum, equity in mathematics education, and instructional practices.
Dates: Mar 26–28, 2026 · Location: New Orleans, LA, USA · Pricing: $250–$500
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum
NCTM's regional spring conference. A more intimate alternative to the annual meeting, featuring targeted workshops on mathematics teaching and learning for K-12 educators.
Dates: Jun 23–24, 2026 · Location: Valley City, ND, USA · Pricing: $100–$250
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum
North Dakota's math teachers summer conference. A regional gathering for K-12 math educators to share instructional strategies, explore curriculum resources, and engage in professional learning.
Dates: Mar 27–29, 2026 · Location: Anaheim, CA, USA · Pricing: $150–$350
Topics: Policy & Equity, Leadership & Admin
The NEA's conference for Education Support Professionals — paraprofessionals, bus drivers, cafeteria staff, and custodians — addressing labor rights, training, and the vital role of support staff.
Nebraska's educational technology association conference. Affordable, teacher-focused sessions on integrating technology into K-12 classrooms, digital tools, and instructional innovation.
Dates: Apr 10–12, 2026 · Location: San Antonio, TX, USA · Pricing: $700–$1,200
Topics: Leadership & Admin, Policy & Equity
The National School Boards Association's annual conference for school board members and superintendents. Topics include governance, school finance, legal issues, equity, and board-superintendent relations.
Dates: Mar 26–29, 2026 · Location: Boston, MA, USA · Pricing: $300–$600
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum
The National Science Teaching Association's national conference. The go-to event for K-12 science teachers, featuring NGSS-aligned workshops, lab demonstrations, and curriculum resources.
Dates: Feb 2026 · Location: Columbus, OH, USA · Pricing: $200–$400
Topics: EdTech & Innovation
Ohio's statewide educational technology conference for K-12 educators and IT professionals. Covers digital tools, cybersecurity, broadband access, and technology integration strategies.
Pennsylvania's premier edtech event. Combines an expo hall with hands-on sessions for K-12 educators, technology directors, and administrators exploring digital learning tools.
Dates: Nov 2–5, 2026 · Location: Denver, CO, USA · Pricing: Free for customers
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Leadership & Admin
PowerSchool's annual user conference for K-12 districts. Deep dives into student information systems, special education management, analytics, and the full PowerSchool product ecosystem.
The State Educational Technology Directors Association's summit. Brings together state-level ed-tech leaders to discuss policy, broadband, digital equity, and technology planning.
Dates: Mar 2026 · Location: Las Vegas, NV, USA · Pricing: $350–$600
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Research & Higher Ed
The Society for Information Technology and Teacher Education conference. Research-focused sessions on technology in teacher preparation programs, instructional design, and online learning.
Dates: Mar 9–12, 2026 · Location: Austin, TX, USA · Pricing: $495–$1,595
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Business & Investment, Teaching & Curriculum
Part of the broader SXSW festival, EDU brings together educators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and creatives to reimagine the future of learning with a bold, interdisciplinary lens.
Dates: Jan 2026 · Location: Austin, TX, USA · Pricing: $350–$600
Topics: Leadership & Admin, Policy & Equity
Texas's mid-year convening for superintendents and district leaders. Addresses Texas-specific education policy, legislative updates, and strategic leadership development.
The Texas Computer Education Association's annual convention. One of the largest state edtech conferences, with hundreds of sessions, a massive expo hall, and deep professional learning tracks.
Dates: Mar 2026 · Location: Boston, MA, USA · Pricing: $200–$400
Topics: AI & Emerging Tech, Student Support & Wellbeing
A Learning and the Brain Foundation conference on AI and Gen Z students. Explores neuroscience of learning, AI's effect on adolescent development, and evidence-based teaching strategies.
Dates: Jan 2026 · Location: London, UK · Pricing: By invitation
Topics: Policy & Equity
The world's largest gathering of education ministers, with 100+ countries represented. Addresses global education policy, international development goals, and education system transformation.
Utah's educational technology conference for K-12 educators. Offers hands-on sessions on digital tools, Google and Apple integrations, and creative technology use in classrooms.
Dates: Jan 26–27, 2026 · Location: Provo, UT, USA · Pricing: $100–$200
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum
Utah's math teachers summer gathering. Features workshops on math instructional strategies, Utah Core Standards alignment, and collaborative lesson planning for K-12 mathematics educators.
UNESCO's annual event focused on digital transformation in education globally. Addresses EdTech policy, AI in education, digital skills, and equitable access across developing nations.
Topics: Leadership & Admin, Student Support & Wellbeing
The National Association of Elementary School Principals' annual conference. Focused on instructional leadership, principal wellness, early childhood education, and school culture.
Dates: Jun 22–25, 2026 · Location: Cleveland, OH, USA · Pricing: $400–$700
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, Research & Higher Ed
The United States Distance Learning Association's annual conference. Covers distance education across K-12, higher ed, military, and corporate training sectors with a focus on best practices and standards.
The American Educational Research Association's flagship event. Thousands of researchers present peer-reviewed studies on teaching, learning, equity, and education policy.
Dates: Feb 15–21, 2027 · Location: Atlanta, GA, USA · Pricing: $400–$700
Topics: Research & Higher Ed, Teaching & Curriculum
The Advanced Technological Education program's annual meeting for NSF-funded projects. Centers on STEM technician education at community colleges and workforce pipelines.
Dates: Jan 22–24, 2027 · Location: Orlando, FL, USA · Pricing: $500–$900
Topics: Special Ed & Inclusion, EdTech & Innovation
The world's largest assistive technology conference. Sessions cover AT tools for students with disabilities, AAC devices, universal design for learning, and accessibility compliance.
Dates: Jan 20–22, 2027 · Location: London, UK · Pricing: Free–£500
Topics: EdTech & Innovation
One of the world's largest edtech trade shows with 700+ exhibitors and 37,000+ attendees. Covers classroom technology, AI in education, safeguarding, and global school leadership.
Dates: Jan 26–29, 2027 · Location: Orlando, FL, USA · Pricing: $599–$999
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, AI & Emerging Tech
One of the longest-running edtech conferences in the US. Serves K-12 educators, administrators, and IT directors with hundreds of sessions on classroom technology, AI tools, and digital leadership.
The merger of two giants — ISTE (edtech) and ASCD (curriculum and instruction). Thousands of sessions spanning educational technology, leadership, instructional design, and equity.
Dates: Feb 23–26, 2027 · Location: Charlotte, NC, USA · Pricing: $300–$600
Topics: Student Support & Wellbeing
The National Association of School Psychologists' convention. Covers mental health support systems, trauma-informed practices, crisis intervention, and psychological assessment in schools.
Dates: Oct 27–29, 2027 · Location: Orlando, FL, USA · Pricing: $350–$600
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum, Research & Higher Ed
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' flagship conference. Research sessions, workshops, and exhibits covering math curriculum, equity in mathematics education, and instructional practices.
Dates: Feb 8–11, 2028 · Location: Orlando, FL, USA · Pricing: $599–$999
Topics: EdTech & Innovation, AI & Emerging Tech
One of the longest-running edtech conferences in the US. Serves K-12 educators, administrators, and IT directors with hundreds of sessions on classroom technology, AI tools, and digital leadership.
Dates: Feb 22–25, 2028 · Location: Salt Lake City, UT, USA · Pricing: $300–$600
Topics: Student Support & Wellbeing
The National Association of School Psychologists' convention. Covers mental health support systems, trauma-informed practices, crisis intervention, and psychological assessment in schools.
Dates: Oct 11–14, 2028 · Location: Minneapolis, MN, USA · Pricing: $350–$600
Topics: Teaching & Curriculum, Research & Higher Ed
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' flagship conference. Research sessions, workshops, and exhibits covering math curriculum, equity in mathematics education, and instructional practices.
The premier gathering for K-12 superintendents and school system leaders. Features policy sessions, leadership development, and national education reform discussions.
Brazil's largest distance education congress, bringing together researchers, educators, and institutions exploring online and hybrid learning models across Latin America.
The American Educational Research Association's flagship event. Thousands of researchers present peer-reviewed studies on teaching, learning, equity, and education policy.
Focused exclusively on AI tools in classroom practice. Practical workshops help teachers and instructional coaches integrate generative AI responsibly into daily lessons.
Hosted by Stanford HAI, this research-forward summit convenes AI scientists, educators, and policymakers to shape how artificial intelligence is developed and deployed in learning environments.
The American School Counselor Association's national event. Addresses student mental health, college and career readiness, and the evolving role of school counselors.
Dedicated entirely to grades 5–9, this conference supports middle school educators with research-based practices, student engagement strategies, and curriculum development.
The edtech industry's top executive summit. Investors, CEOs, university presidents, and district leaders convene to discuss the future of learning and workforce development.
The Advanced Technological Education program's annual meeting for NSF-funded projects. Centers on STEM technician education at community colleges and workforce pipelines.
The world's largest assistive technology conference. Sessions cover AT tools for students with disabilities, AAC devices, universal design for learning, and accessibility compliance.
Built for technology leaders in independent schools. Covers IT strategy, cybersecurity, learning management systems, and technology governance in private K-12 settings.
Asia-Pacific's leading education technology exhibition. Connects edtech vendors, ministries of education, and school leaders across Southeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
The Brazilian edition of the global BETT brand. Features edtech product showcases, policy dialogues, and professional development for educators across Brazil and Latin America.
One of the world's largest edtech trade shows with 600+ exhibitors and 30,000+ attendees. Covers classroom technology, AI in education, safeguarding, and global school leadership.
User conference for schools running Blackbaud platforms (Raiser's Edge, Veracross, etc.). Focuses on database management, fundraising, enrollment, and financial aid workflows.
A Midwest-focused edtech conference for K-20 educators. Emphasizes hands-on technology integration, innovative instructional strategies, and collaborative professional learning.
Colorado's reading and literacy association conference. Focuses on evidence-based literacy instruction, reading intervention, and language arts curriculum for K-12 educators.
The Council for Exceptional Children's national convention — the leading conference for special education professionals, covering IEPs, inclusive practices, learning disabilities, and gifted education.
Hosted by Universidad Anáhuac, this international congress explores educational quality, pedagogical innovation, and values-based education across Latin America.
The Consortium for School Networking's flagship event for K-12 technology executives. Addresses broadband, cybersecurity, AI policy, data privacy, and technology leadership in school districts.
Brings together school business administrators, CFOs, and operations leaders. Topics include school finance, facilities, procurement, HR compliance, and budget management.
California's leading edtech conference for K-12 educators. Strong focus on Google Workspace, Apple, and Microsoft tools, alongside digital citizenship, coding, and classroom innovation.
Focuses on K-12 digital learning policy and practice. Explores online learning programs, state digital learning initiatives, and competency-based pathways.
Mexico's congress on Universal Design for Learning. Addresses inclusive education frameworks, accessibility in curriculum, and strategies for diverse learner populations.
New York City's edtech industry week. A series of events, panels, and networking sessions connecting founders, investors, district buyers, and higher education leaders.
A London-based international forum for edtech entrepreneurs, investors, and institutional leaders. Sessions cover EdTech venture funding, global market expansion, and product innovation.
An intimate, conversation-driven conference held at Science Leadership Academy. Focuses on progressive pedagogy, student agency, and reimagining school culture — no vendor booths.
A Mexican education festival celebrating innovation in teaching and learning. Features talks, workshops, and exhibitions for educators across all grade levels.
Asia's largest education technology event. Attracts higher education and K-12 leaders from across ASEAN, featuring technology showcases, research presentations, and policy panels.
Australia and New Zealand's premier education technology conference. Covers AI in learning, digital transformation of universities, and emerging classroom technologies.
Spain's leading edtech congress, bringing together educators, startups, and institutions from across the Spanish-speaking world to explore digital transformation in education.
One of the longest-running edtech conferences in the US. Serves K-12 educators, administrators, and IT directors with hundreds of sessions on classroom technology, AI tools, and digital leadership.
A virtual conference for Idaho school administrators covering state-specific policy, school law, finance, and leadership topics in a casual, accessible online format.
Illinois's premier edtech conference. Focused on innovative instructional technology, digital tools, and professional learning for K-12 educators across the state.
Teaching & Curriculum, Leadership & Admin, AI & Emerging Tech
Features conferences on innovative teaching, at-risk students, school leadership, school discipline, social-emotional learning, and AI/Tech in schools.
Brings together K-12 administrators and teachers focused on innovative learning models: project-based learning, competency education, school climate, and at-risk student strategies.
Instructure's annual user conference for Canvas LMS customers. Covers Canvas features, integrations, assessment design, and best practices for K-12 and higher ed institutions.
An international academic congress presenting research and innovation in education across Latin America, spanning pedagogy, education technology, and institutional reform.
The merger of two giants — ISTE (edtech) and ASCD (curriculum and instruction). Thousands of sessions spanning educational technology, leadership, instructional design, and equity.
1EdTech's annual gathering for ed-tech interoperability leaders. Focuses on LTI, QTI, open standards, and how institutions can build connected, data-sharing technology ecosystems.
Missouri's professional learning community conference. Focuses on teacher coaching, instructional leadership, and building collaborative learning cultures in schools.
A national literacy conference for reading specialists, curriculum coaches, and classroom teachers. Emphasizes the science of reading and evidence-based literacy instruction.
A week-long series of events across London covering edtech investment, workforce learning, and global education innovation. EdTechX is its flagship investor and CEO summit.
Michigan's leading educational technology conference. Practical, teacher-centered sessions on digital learning tools, Google and Microsoft integrations, and instructional coaching.
The National Association for Bilingual Education's annual conference. Focuses on English language learner instruction, bilingual program design, and language policy advocacy.
Connects college career services professionals with corporate recruiters. Topics include internship programs, early talent pipelines, salary benchmarking, and campus recruiting trends.
The National Association of Independent Schools' flagship conference for private school heads, trustees, and administrators. Focuses on school sustainability, diversity, and strategic leadership.
The National Association of School Psychologists' convention. Covers mental health support systems, trauma-informed practices, crisis intervention, and psychological assessment in schools.
Hosted by CCSSO, this conference brings together state assessment directors, test developers, and policy leaders focusing on statewide testing design, accountability systems, and data use.
Focused on Title I and ESEA implementation. Connects federal program directors, equity advocates, and district administrators working with high-need and underserved student populations.
Addresses the unique challenges of rural school districts: teacher recruitment, broadband access, small district funding, and community-connected learning models.
Dedicated to microschools, learning pods, and hybrid school models. Practitioners share what works in non-traditional learning environments blending home and classroom instruction.
Focused exclusively on cybersecurity threats facing school districts. Covers ransomware attacks, data breaches, student data privacy, and how district IT leaders can build resilient defenses.
Hosted by High Tech High Graduate School of Education. Focuses on networked improvement communities, design thinking in schools, and using evidence to drive systemic change.
The Northwest Council for Computer Education's annual conference. Serving K-12 educators in the Pacific Northwest with practical sessions on coding, digital tools, and instructional technology.
The National Catholic Educational Association's annual conference. Addresses faith-based education, Catholic school leadership, curriculum standards, and mission-centered school culture.
The country's largest gathering for charter school leaders, operators, and advocates. Sessions cover school quality, authorizing, equity, facilities, and federal charter school policy.
The National Council of Teachers of English annual gathering. Brings together English and language arts educators for sessions on writing instruction, literature, media literacy, and equity.
North Carolina's technology in education conference. Features hands-on workshops on digital tools, AI, coding, and instructional design for K-12 teachers and technology coaches.
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' flagship conference. Research sessions, workshops, and exhibits covering math curriculum, equity in mathematics education, and instructional practices.
NCTM's regional spring conference. A more intimate alternative to the annual meeting, featuring targeted workshops on mathematics teaching and learning for K-12 educators.
North Dakota's math teachers summer conference. A regional gathering for K-12 math educators to share instructional strategies, explore curriculum resources, and engage in professional learning.
The NEA's conference for Education Support Professionals — paraprofessionals, bus drivers, cafeteria staff, and custodians — addressing labor rights, training, and the vital role of support staff.
Nebraska's educational technology association conference. Affordable, teacher-focused sessions on integrating technology into K-12 classrooms, digital tools, and instructional innovation.
The National School Boards Association's annual conference for school board members and superintendents. Topics include governance, school finance, legal issues, equity, and board-superintendent relations.
The National Science Teaching Association's national conference. The go-to event for K-12 science teachers, featuring NGSS-aligned workshops, lab demonstrations, and curriculum resources.
Ohio's statewide educational technology conference for K-12 educators and IT professionals. Covers digital tools, cybersecurity, broadband access, and technology integration strategies.
Pennsylvania's premier edtech event. Combines an expo hall with hands-on sessions for K-12 educators, technology directors, and administrators exploring digital learning tools.
PowerSchool's annual user conference for K-12 districts. Deep dives into student information systems, special education management, analytics, and the full PowerSchool product ecosystem.
The State Educational Technology Directors Association's summit. Brings together state-level ed-tech leaders to discuss policy, broadband, digital equity, and technology planning.
The Society for Information Technology and Teacher Education conference. Research-focused sessions on technology in teacher preparation programs, instructional design, and online learning.
EdTech & Innovation, Business & Investment, Teaching & Curriculum
Part of the broader SXSW festival, EDU brings together educators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and creatives to reimagine the future of learning with a bold, interdisciplinary lens.
Texas's mid-year convening for superintendents and district leaders. Addresses Texas-specific education policy, legislative updates, and strategic leadership development.
The Texas Computer Education Association's annual convention. One of the largest state edtech conferences, with hundreds of sessions, a massive expo hall, and deep professional learning tracks.
A Learning and the Brain Foundation conference on AI and Gen Z students. Explores neuroscience of learning, AI's effect on adolescent development, and evidence-based teaching strategies.
The world's largest gathering of education ministers, with 100+ countries represented. Addresses global education policy, international development goals, and education system transformation.
Utah's educational technology conference for K-12 educators. Offers hands-on sessions on digital tools, Google and Apple integrations, and creative technology use in classrooms.
Utah's math teachers summer gathering. Features workshops on math instructional strategies, Utah Core Standards alignment, and collaborative lesson planning for K-12 mathematics educators.
UNESCO's annual event focused on digital transformation in education globally. Addresses EdTech policy, AI in education, digital skills, and equitable access across developing nations.
The National Association of Elementary School Principals' annual conference. Focused on instructional leadership, principal wellness, early childhood education, and school culture.
The United States Distance Learning Association's annual conference. Covers distance education across K-12, higher ed, military, and corporate training sectors with a focus on best practices and standards.
The American Educational Research Association's flagship event. Thousands of researchers present peer-reviewed studies on teaching, learning, equity, and education policy.
The Advanced Technological Education program's annual meeting for NSF-funded projects. Centers on STEM technician education at community colleges and workforce pipelines.
The world's largest assistive technology conference. Sessions cover AT tools for students with disabilities, AAC devices, universal design for learning, and accessibility compliance.
One of the world's largest edtech trade shows with 700+ exhibitors and 37,000+ attendees. Covers classroom technology, AI in education, safeguarding, and global school leadership.
One of the longest-running edtech conferences in the US. Serves K-12 educators, administrators, and IT directors with hundreds of sessions on classroom technology, AI tools, and digital leadership.
The merger of two giants — ISTE (edtech) and ASCD (curriculum and instruction). Thousands of sessions spanning educational technology, leadership, instructional design, and equity.
The National Association of School Psychologists' convention. Covers mental health support systems, trauma-informed practices, crisis intervention, and psychological assessment in schools.
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' flagship conference. Research sessions, workshops, and exhibits covering math curriculum, equity in mathematics education, and instructional practices.
One of the longest-running edtech conferences in the US. Serves K-12 educators, administrators, and IT directors with hundreds of sessions on classroom technology, AI tools, and digital leadership.
The National Association of School Psychologists' convention. Covers mental health support systems, trauma-informed practices, crisis intervention, and psychological assessment in schools.
The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' flagship conference. Research sessions, workshops, and exhibits covering math curriculum, equity in mathematics education, and instructional practices.