This summer, elementary and secondary school leaders will come together in Nashville for an unparalleled opportunity to collaborate toward a common goal. UNITED: The National Conference on School Leadership, marks a joint effort NASSP and NAESP. Taking place July 15–17, in the heart of Music City, this year’s conference offers a stage for innovation and leadership in education. UNITED attendees are invited to dive into topics related to our conference strands:
Hear From Distinguished Thought Leaders
UNITED’s keynote speakers will share their unique expertise and thought-provoking perspectives.
Jon Gordon has inspired people around the world with his bestselling books and motivational talks. The Energy Bus, The Carpenter, Training Camp, and The Power of Positive Leadership are among his 15 bestsellers.
Rehema Ellis is the Chief Education Correspondent for NBC News. She is an award-winning journalist whose reporting on topics like the 2008 Presidential election and inauguration of Barack Obama earned her an Emmy, and she has played an integral part in NBC’s “Education Nation” initiative.
On Sunday, July 14, UNITED will host four pre-conference workshops. Register early for one or more of these add-on sessions to enhance your experience:
- “Stop Leading. Start Building: How to Turn Any School Into a Success Story With the People and Resources You Have Right Now”
- “What is My Value to the Teachers that I Supervise, Instructionally?”
- “Creating a Culture Where Teachers Can Teach and Students Can Learn”
- “Mastery Unleashed: Using AI and Khan Academy District Partnership to Transform Education”
Session Spotlight
Explore the most pressing and timely topics in education, such as using innovative practices, expanding career building and professional leadership skills, creating trust in leadership and schools—among many others. UNITED’s programming will allow you to focus on your own professional growth, revitalize your leadership approach, and gain actionable strategies for your school community. Plan to attend these sessions from our featured speakers:
- “Rethinking Rigor With Depth of Knowledge” with Erik M. Francis
- “How Teams Work: Making Distributed Leadership Real” with Nancy Frey
- “Efficacy in Personalization: Improving Outcomes Through Action and Coaching” with Eric Sheninger
- “Recalibrate Your Culture” with Jimmy Casas
- “Break the Script: Culturize Your School to Excellence” with Joe Sanfelippo
- “Next Level Leadership: Preparing Future Assistant Principals and Principals for the Application and Interview Process” with Tiara Booker-Dwyer
- “Building a Winning Team: Recruiting and Retaining Top Leaders to Build a Bench” with Salome Thomas-El
- “Protect Your Campus From Online Drama” with Kim Karr
- “The 100% Formula: 4 Keys to Building a School Where EVERY Student Is Successful” with Robyn R. Jackson
More than 200 concurrent sessions will help you find the strategies and solutions to benefit your school community.
Engage Deeply With Peers
Network with leaders across the preK–12 spectrum. Networking events tailored to your specific needs offer the chance to socialize and recharge.
UNITED luncheons create opportunities for networking and motivation in a relaxed setting. Don’t miss Todd Whitaker’s luncheon on “Motivating People During Difficult Times” to discover no-cost ways to create a positive mindset for yourself and those in your school community. Rehema Ellis will host a “Women in Leadership” luncheon to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women in leadership positions.
Attendees will also have the chance to connect deeply with peers who understand their unique challenges and triumphs with NASSP’s Leadership Networks. These groups can help you connect directly with fellow school leaders who share similar lived experiences, passions, and interests:
- Assistant Principals of the Year
- LGBTQ+ School Leaders Network
- Middle School Leaders Network
- New Principals Network
- Principals of the Year
- Rural Leaders Network
- School Leaders of Color Network
- Urban School Leaders
- Women in School Leadership Network
Planning Your Trip
UNITED is offering a group rate when you register four attendees—the fifth attendee is free. Now is the chance for your entire school leadership team or district to get inspired with a common purpose. Learn more about our group rate, as well as individual and student registration.
Once you register, we encourage you to check out our lineup of hotel options. With their competitive rates and convenient proximity to the Music City Center, you’ll find the room that meets your accommodation needs.
We are stronger together. Join us in Nashville this summer to connect with your peers, share your journey, and transform your leadership. Visit the UNITED website for more information.