Save the date: Dec. 6-9, 2026
Learning Forward's Annual Conference
Unite for Learning
Dallas, TX | #learnfwd26
Call for proposal deadline: Jan. 30, 2026
Share your professional learning and school improvement expertise with educators from around the world. Submit a proposal to present at the Learning Forward 2026 Annual Conference in Dallas, Texas, December 6-9, 2026.
The 2026 Annual Conference theme, Unite for Learning, celebrates learning professionals that come together to connect educators across systems and around the world. Unite for Learning underscores the value in fostering professional relationships and collaborative networks as we turn isolated efforts into collective success that supports every educator and reaches each and every student.
Submit your proposal to present a session and join your colleagues in sharing best practices in high-quality professional learning.
The proposal deadline is noon ET on Friday, January 30, 2026. For additional information, please contact conferenceinfo@learningforward.org
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Hotel reservations open in the spring, and the full session list will be released in May. Subscribe here to be notified first before they fill up.
We know you are invested in the success of your educators and students, so we invite you to learn more about Learning Forward's Annual Conference -- the only conference focused exclusively on how to plan, implement, and measure high-quality professional learning that changes educator practice and improves results for all students.
Learning Forward brings together thought leaders, experts, researchers, and other practitioners to collaboratively share the latest learnings, knowledge, and techniques. Our conference models deep learning and best practices so you can take them back to lead learning in your schools, districts, or systems.
Read on to find out why we are known as THE conference for learning about professional learning.
A focus on deep learning that changes practice
At Learning Forward, we go beyond the usual lectures and anecdotes of typical professional development conferences with in-session engagement strategies that are focused on deep and meaningful learning that is evidence-supported and proven to change practice.
We set the bar high for our presenters. They know they Learning Forward is not the typical conference. They know they are presenting for the organization that wrote the Standards for Professional Learning. They know that our attendees lead professional learning back in their schools and systems, so they cannot waste time with sessions that are not evidence-backed solutions with proven strategies.
Who attends
- Central office administrators
- Superintendents
- Policymakers and decision makers
- Teacher leaders/Coaches
- School-based teams
- Principals/Assistant principals
- Technical assistance providers
Learning Forward's conference is different
Aligned to the Standards for Professional Learning
The Standards for Professional Learning offer educators the latest knowledge and insights to design, implement, and sustain high-quality professional learning. Standards lead to environments in which all educators and students have access to powerful learning.
Sessions model best practices
Presenters use engaging learning and facilitation strategies that promote active participation and interaction among attendees.
All voices are heard and valued
This includes creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment where diverse perspectives are respected and considered.
Time for deep learning and constructive interruptions
Presenters build in time for deeper engagement that promotes active learning.
Evidence of impact
Sessions must have evidence of impact that leads to improved student outcomes.
Results for students, not trends and gizmos
Did you know that we do not have an exhibit hall? Our attendees made it clear that they would rather spend their time on deep learning. Instead, we offer a limited number of sponsorship opportunities so that you get more personal access with the top minds of the field.
Attendees are writing about their conference experience!
Can I use Title II-A funds to pay for the conference?
- Are you a teacher, paraprofessional, school-based librarian, school counselor, or school administrator?
- Can you show that the content you will gain aligns to or is part of a broader professional learning plan?
- Can you show that you will either learn collaboratively while at the conference (because you are part of a team of attendees) or that you will share what you have learned with colleagues when you return to your school?
If you answered yes to these three questions, your district could approve the use of Title II-A funds to support attendance at the conference.
Tired of racing to your next session?
Learning Forward uses a ticketed system so you can reserve your seat in advance. This way, you are guaranteed a seat in the sessions you want to attend, no matter how far you have to walk! No more standing against a wall, sitting on the floor, or having to leave sessions early just to get your next seat, like at typical professional development conferences. Instead, you can take your time between sessions and focus on the learning.
What others are saying
Top-notch and relevant
“I really enjoyed the conference-the learning was top-notch and relevant, the location was amazing, and I was able to interact with other passionate educators!” Christi Jefferds, Lead Epidemiologist for Northern […]
Read MoreTopics rooted in research, with a national perspective
“Very well organized!! High quality PL with very engaging presenters. It was wonderful to hear about these topics rooted in research and with a national perspective, and then hear from […]
Read MoreA phenomenal learning experience
“It’s a phenomenal learning experience with information you can immediately implement.” Julie Devine, Supervisor of digital and online learning
Read More