Special education is one of the most legally complex, personally demanding, and rapidly evolving areas of K-12 practice. The conferences in this category serve special education teachers, related-service providers, directors of special education, school psychologists, and the families and advocacy organizations that work alongside them. CEC's Convention and Expo is the flagship event — the largest gathering of special education professionals in the world, covering IEPs, inclusive practices, transition, gifted education, and every category of exceptionality. ATIA is the counterpart for assistive technology, drawing SLPs, OTs, AT specialists, and vendors of AAC devices and accessibility tools. Around these are LDA for learning disabilities, national and state autism conferences, gifted education associations, and dozens of regional events for early-intervention providers and transition specialists. Attendees leave with practical strategies, updated understanding of federal and state compliance obligations, and connections to families and advocates. Use the listings here to plan CEU-eligible PD, budget-request timing, and travel for related-service providers whose licensure requires ongoing training.
Special Ed & Inclusion conferences (27 upcoming)
Past events
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest special education conference in the U.S.?
CEC's Convention and Expo is the largest, drawing 5,000+ special education professionals each spring. The 2026 event is in Chicago, February 4–7.
Which conference is best for assistive technology?
ATIA (Assistive Technology Industry Association) in Orlando each January is the world's largest AT conference. It covers AAC, accessibility, UDL, and AT for students across disability categories.
Are there conferences focused on inclusive practices in general education?
Yes — inclusion is a major track at CEC, ASCD Annual, and ISTELive. TASH's annual conference focuses specifically on inclusive education and community for people with significant disabilities.
Do these conferences offer CEUs for SLPs, OTs, and school psychologists?
Most do. ATIA, CEC, and NASP conferences all offer ASHA CEUs, AOTA CEUs, and NASP-approved credits. Check the event's professional development page for provider approvals.
Which special education conferences are best for parents and advocates?
CEC has family strands, and organizations like LDA, CHADD, and Autism Society run family-and-professional conferences. Many state Parent Training and Information Centers host local events too.