Join independent school educators from across New England for a one-day conference showcasing innovative and proven practices, by teachers, for teachers.

In a time of rapid change, the call to empower every learner is both urgent and inspiring. The 2026 Educator Showcase for Independent Schools, "EmpowerED – Where Every Learner Thrives," invites independent school educators to reimagine teaching and learning to ensure every student can flourish.

This joint NEASC/CAIS event celebrates the transformative power of personalized, inclusive, and purpose-driven education. Through hands-on, workshop-based sessions, teachers will explore how to design learning environments that honor the whole child, blend emerging technologies with timeless values, and strengthen connections between curriculum and community—academically, socially, and ethically.

This conference is about empowering educators by advancing teacher agency, supporting professional growth, and encouraging innovation in pedagogy. It’s about empowering students by developing their voice, choice, and ownership in learning. And it’s about empowering schools by creating cultures of belonging, resilience, and bold leadership.

Call for Proposals
We invite proposals for 70-minute breakout sessions that offer practical strategies, artifacts, and take-home tools. Proposals might address how you are: 

• Bridging PK–12 transitions so learners experience continuity of expectations and support 
• Developing and implementing your vision of a learner  
• Connecting curriculum, instruction, feedback, and assessment to raise the quality of learning 
• Building student agency with authentic tasks, voice, and choice 
• Creating inclusive, culturally responsive environments that foster belonging 
• Partnering with families, community, and industry for real-world learning 
• Strengthening wellness systems that sustain engagement and success 
• Designing interdisciplinary projects that link standards to meaningful products 
• Using evidence and reflection to guide improvement and align to NEASC Standards 

Who should present
We welcome proposals from any members of the school team at NEASC-Accredited or CAIS-Accredited independent schools: educators, counselors, specialists, and administrators. Student co-presenters are welcome and encouraged.

Proposal deadline: December 17, 2025 
Review committee decisions will be sent out by early January 2026.  

Submit a Proposal 

• Session length: 70 minutes 
• Registration and breakfast: 8:00 a.m. 
• Wrap-up: 2:00 p.m. 

Venue
Heritage Hotel  
522 Heritage Road, Southbury, Connecticut
Hotel room event rate of $129.00 USD per night is available until April 21, 2026, based upon availability. To reserve a room call the hotel directly at 203-264-8200 and reference "NEASC Showcase". 

Who should attend
The Showcase is open to independent school educators from across New England. Teams from schools are encouraged to attend and participate together. We invite you to learn with and from your peers.

Fees (includes continental breakfast, lunch, and sessions):

• $175 Individual registration
• $600 for a team (up to 4 people from one school)
• All accepted presenters are offered a discounted individual registration rate of $75.00 (reduced from the regular $175.00 attendee fee).

Register to Attend

Interested in Sponsoring? Sponsors receive an exhibitor table and workshop presentation. Limited to 2 companies. Contact [email protected].