You’re an educator, and finding fresh ideas to inspire your teaching is always a priority.
Don’t miss the chance to attend some of the most impactful education conferences in 2025.
These events are designed to recharge your passion, introduce innovative strategies, and connect you with fellow educators and thought leaders from around the globe.
From exploring project-based learning to integrating cutting-edge technology into your classroom, these conferences offer actionable insights to tackle today’s educational challenges.
Whether you’re an administrator, teacher, or education enthusiast, these events will equip you with the tools and inspiration to elevate your teaching and create meaningful student outcomes.
1. SXSW EDU Conference & Festival
Date: March 3–6, 2025
Location: Austin, Texas
The SXSW EDU Conference & Festival is more than just a conference—it’s a dynamic learning experience. Educators, industry leaders, and policymakers come together to exchange ideas and explore the future of education through panels, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Why attend:
- Engage in interactive sessions covering everything from AI in education to emotional intelligence for students.
- Discover cutting-edge tools and resources at the expo designed to enhance classroom learning.
- Participate in networking events that foster collaborations across education and technology sectors.
2. ASCD Annual and ISTELive Co-location
Date: June 29 – July 2, 2025
Location: San Antonio, Texas
For the first time, ASCD and ISTE are collaborating to create a joint conference experience that bridges the gap between curriculum development and educational technology. This event is perfect for educators looking to implement transformative professional learning strategies in their schools.
Highlights:
- Deep-dive workshops on curriculum design and technology integration.
- Hands-on demonstrations of emerging tech like AR/VR in classrooms.
- Collaborative sessions on addressing student equity and engagement challenges.
| Key focus areas | Examples |
|---|---|
| Curriculum Design | Effective lesson planning for diverse learners. |
| Educational Technology | Utilizing AI tools for personalized learning. |
| Equity in Education | Strategies for closing achievement gaps. |
3. PBL World
Date: June 23–26, 2025
Location: Napa Valley, California
Project-Based Learning (PBL) enthusiasts, this conference is for you. Hosted by PBLWorks, PBL World immerses educators in the art and science of project-based learning, helping them design meaningful learning experiences that engage students and promote critical thinking.
What to expect:
- Hands-on workshops to design impactful PBL units for your classroom.
- Collaborative opportunities to share ideas and learn from other educators implementing PBL.
- Sessions exploring how PBL can improve equity and inclusion in education.
Example activity:
Learn to create a PBL unit like “Design a Sustainable City,” where students research, collaborate, and present their ideas to solve real-world challenges.
| PBL skills developed | Student outcomes |
|---|---|
| Critical Thinking | Students solve complex problems creatively. |
| Collaboration | Encourages teamwork and diverse perspectives. |
| Communication | Enhances presentation and argumentation skills. |
4. Model Schools Conference
Date: June 22–25, 2025
Location: Washington, D.C.
The Model Schools Conference highlights schools and districts that have successfully transformed student outcomes. This event provides actionable insights into innovative practices that any educator can adapt to their own context.
Highlights:
- Real-world success stories showcasing innovative teaching methods.
- Interactive sessions focused on leadership, equity, and student-centered learning.
- Networking with forward-thinking educators and administrators.
Takeaway: Explore how underperforming schools have used targeted strategies to improve test scores, graduation rates, and student engagement.
5. JFF Horizons
Date: June 10–11, 2025
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
JFF Horizons stands out as a hub for conversations about lifelong learning and workforce development. The conference focuses on creating equitable systems that prepare learners for the future of work.
Why this conference matters:
- Discuss education’s role in closing workforce opportunity gaps.
- Learn from thought leaders in education, policy, and business.
- Discover strategies to connect classroom learning with real-world workforce skills.
6. AASA National Conference on Education
Date: March 6–8, 2025
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Organized by the School Superintendents Association, this conference focuses on leadership strategies to address the challenges facing K-12 education. It’s ideal for administrators and teachers interested in scaling impactful practices in their schools.
Key features:
- Leadership development workshops tailored to superintendents and principals.
- Case studies from districts tackling challenges like teacher shortages and funding.
- Practical sessions on improving student outcomes through innovative leadership.
| Leadership topics | Examples |
|---|---|
| Strategic Planning | Budgeting for new learning technologies. |
| Staff Development | Effective teacher recruitment and retention strategies. |
| Data-Driven Decision-Making | Using analytics to improve instruction quality. |
7. OLC Innovate
Date: April 1–4, 2025
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
As digital learning becomes increasingly important, OLC Innovate offers educators, instructional designers, and administrators the chance to explore the latest innovations in online and blended learning.
Why attend:
- Participate in workshops on creating engaging online courses.
- Learn about advancements in AI-powered personalized learning tools.
- Connect with professionals focused on quality online education.
Making the most of your conference experience
Attending an education conference is a significant investment of time and resources, so maximizing its value is essential. Here are some practical steps to help you get the most out of your experience:
1. Prepare before you go
- Research the sessions: Prioritize those that align with your goals or interests. Many conferences release their schedules online weeks in advance.
- Set goals: Decide what you hope to achieve—whether it’s finding tools for personalized learning, gaining leadership strategies, or networking with peers.
- Pack smart: Bring essentials like notebooks, business cards, and comfortable clothing for long days.
2. Engage actively during the event
- Take detailed notes: Jot down key takeaways, innovative ideas, and resources shared by speakers.
- Participate in discussions: Many conferences include breakout sessions or workshops where collaboration is key. Share your experiences and learn from others.
- Connect with others: Build relationships by networking with attendees, exhibitors, and speakers. Use LinkedIn or a conference app to stay in touch post-event.
3. Follow up post-conference
- Share your knowledge: Host a session with colleagues to share the insights you gained.
- Implement ideas: Select one or two actionable takeaways and try them in your classroom or school.
- Stay connected: Follow up with new contacts and continue exploring resources shared during the conference.
Conclusion
Education conferences in 2025 are more than just events—they’re opportunities to grow as an educator, connect with a broader community, and explore strategies that can transform teaching and learning.
Whether you’re attending SXSW EDU for its innovative sessions, diving into Project-Based Learning at PBL World, or exploring equity and workforce readiness at JFF Horizons, each conference offers something unique to elevate your practice.
Take a leap and immerse yourself in these must-see events. The insights you gain won’t just shape your teaching—they’ll inspire the students you serve, leaving a lasting impact on your classroom and beyond.