2026 NEASC Leadership Conference

November 16-18, 2026| Boston, MA, USA | Conference Website | Hotel | Contact us
Please note the schedule is subject to change. Details are updated regularly to reflect the latest information.

8:30am EST

Information/Pre-conference Registration Desk

Monday November 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EST

NEASC staff will be available at the Welcome/Registration desk throughout the active hours of the conference. Stop by for assistance and to say hello!IMPORTANT:Remember to download the Sched app and connect to the #NEASC2026 event to use the agenda and networking tools. Make sure to set your profile to "Public" so you can interact with other attendees and turn on announcements so you...
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Monday November 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EST
Foyer

Break/Exhibits

9:30am EST

A Collective Vision for Student Success: Creation, Implementation, and Assessment of your Vision of a Learner

Monday November 16, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EST

TBA

Join educational leaders and NEASC staff as they share their journeys to create a Vision of a Learner to articulate their school’s learning goals for their students.Learn how schools across New England have used this guiding document to align curriculum, bring staff together around shared philosophy, and assess student success. Presenters and NEASC staff will share examples of successful...
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Speakers

Alyson Geary

Director of Accreditation and School Improvement, Public Schools, NEASC

Carl Johnson

Associate Director for Accreditation and School Improvement, Commission on Public Education, NEASC

Carl joined NEASC in 2023 after two decades serving as an educator and administrator in Connecticut schools. Carl began his career as a social studies teacher at Farmington High School before becoming student activities director in 2013. He then served as assistant principal and principal... Read More →

Monday November 16, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EST
TBA

Pre-conference

9:30am EST

Commission on International Education Lead Visitor Training

Monday November 16, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EST

TBA

NEASC is offering Lead Visitor Training for experienced international school visitors who we believe have the potential to excel as leaders of accreditation teams. This one day workshop is for individuals who will be new to the role of NEASC ACE lead visitor, and for those who have been lead visitors, but would like to refresh their skills.A profile of a successful Lead Visitor includes: school...
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Speakers

Darlene Fisher

International Accreditation Leader, NEASC

Monday November 16, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EST
TBA

Pre-conference

9:30am EST

Connecting Research to Practice: Transforming Systems Serving Multilingual Learners

Monday November 16, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EST

TBA

How can schools and districts best serve increasingly diverse student populations? How can leaders design systems that leverage multilingualism and support multilingual learner success? This interactive preconference will build shared understanding of how leaders can connect research to practice and build collective efficacy in serving multilingual learners and their families. Using a systems...
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Speakers

Jon Nordmeyer

School Network Director, Multilingual Learning Research Center

Carrie Parker

Quantitative & Applied Research, Multilingual Learning Research Center

Monday November 16, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EST
TBA

Pre-conference

9:30am EST

Next Generation Curriculum Design for Transformative Learning

Monday November 16, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EST

TBA

This interactive workshop brings together three essential dimensions of transformational learning: designing future-ready curriculum, developing meaningful assessment systems, and creating aligned learner and teacher profiles that reflect a school’s vision for high-quality learning. Grounded in the NEASC ACE Learning Principles, a Framework for High-Quality Learning, and emerging global...
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Speakers

Diane Ullman

International Accreditation Leader, NEASC

https://www.neasc.org/about/our-team/diane-ullman

Sharyn Skrtic

International Accreditation Leader, NEASC

Prior to joining NEASC as an International Accreditation Leader, Sharyn served as a peer visitor on NEASC Accreditation teams in Europe and Asia. After moving into international school education in Europe in 2005, she has held teaching and senior leadership positions at international... Read More →

Kelly Lyman

Coordinator, Executive Leadership Program, University of Connecticut, NEAG School of Education

Kelly Lyman served as a school leader in Connecticut for nearly 30 years. During that time she focused on systemic improvement efforts designed to develop in students the knowledge, skills, and understandings necessary for success in a rapidly changing global environment. She... Read More →

Monday November 16, 2026 9:30am - 4:00pm EST
TBA

Pre-conference

11:00am EST

Commission on Independent Schools Chair/Asst. Chair Training

Monday November 16, 2026 11:00am - 4:00pm EST

TBA

Prepare to take on a leadership role on a NEASC Visiting Team through this focused training for school leaders. Ideal for future Chairs and Assistant Chairs, the session provides a clear, comprehensive grounding in the accreditation process of the Commission on Independent Schools.Through hands on activities and practical discussion, participants will gain the knowledge and perspective needed to...
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Speakers

Edie Traina

Director for Accreditation and School Improvement, Independent Schools, NEASC

As director, Edie leads a robust team of accreditation professionals dedicated to supporting independent schools in adapting to the changing needs in education.

Prior to joining NEASC in 2024, Edie served as the Assistant Head of School for Faculty and Academics at the Taft School in Watertown, CT. While at Taft, she was responsible for leading daily school operations as well as strategic planning, policy review and coordination, and recruiting... Read More →

Beth Hamilton

Senior Associate Director, NEASC

Beth helps guide member schools through the NEASC Accreditation process and partners with them to create cultures of innovation, belonging, and improvement.

Beth joined the NEASC staff in 2016, bringing 35 years of experience in independent, public, and international schools in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Ohio, Brazil, and China. She was the Founding Lower School Head at the Wooster School in Danbury, CT and served as an elementary school... Read More →

Carrie Wilson

Associate Director, NEASC

Carrie helps guide member schools through the NEASC Accreditation process and partners with them to create cultures of innovation, belonging, and improvement.

Having most recently served as the Head of School for All Saints Catholic Academy in Morrisville, Vermont, Carrie brings 25 years of school service as a classroom educator, administrator, and as a mentor for several Diocesan principals to her role at NEASC. She developed a depth of... Read More →

Monday November 16, 2026 11:00am - 4:00pm EST
TBA

Pre-conference

12:00pm EST

Lunch

Monday November 16, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST

TBA

Enjoy a buffet lunch with us before returning to your workshop session.

Monday November 16, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EST
TBA

Meal

4:00pm EST

Welcome Reception!

Monday November 16, 2026 4:00pm - 5:30pm EST

TBA

All conference attendees are encouraged to attend.

Thank you to our reception sponsor Clearpath!

Monday November 16, 2026 4:00pm - 5:30pm EST
TBA

Networking

7:30am EST

Breakfast

Tuesday November 17, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am EST

TBA

Good morning and welcome! Join us for a light breakfast and start your day in good company!

Tuesday November 17, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am EST
TBA

Meal

7:30am EST

Information/Registration Desk (available 7:30a-5p)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm EST

NEASC staff will be available at the Welcome/Registration desk throughout the active hours of the conference. Stop by for assistance and to say hello!IMPORTANT:Remember to download the Sched app and connect to the #NEASC2026 event to use the agenda and networking tools. Make sure to set your profile to "Public" so you can interact with other attendees and turn on announcements so you don't miss...
See More →

Tuesday November 17, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm EST
Foyer

Break/Exhibits

7:30am EST

Meet our 2026 exhibitors!

Tuesday November 17, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm EST

Stop by to say hello to our exhibitors. View the complete exhibitor directory.

Tuesday November 17, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm EST
Foyer

Break/Exhibits

9:00am EST

Conference Welcome

Tuesday November 17, 2026 9:00am - 9:20am EST

TBA

Welcome to NEASC2026!

Speakers

Cameron Staples

President, CEO, NEASC

Cameron C. Staples, an attorney and former Connecticut State Representative, has been President/Chief Executive Officer at NEASC since 2011. Mr. Staples has a breadth of educational and legislative experience.

NEASC accredits over 1600 independent schools and public schools throughout New England as well as 500 international schools in over 85 countries. As President/CEO, Staples manages a staff of 50 employees and a volunteer base of nearly 8000 individuals. As the leader of the organization... Read More →

Tuesday November 17, 2026 9:00am - 9:20am EST
TBA

Main Stage

9:45am EST

The Depth Advantage (Featured Speaker)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 9:45am - 10:10am EST

In an age of distractions, deeper learning is both more urgent and more difficult than ever. Students are bombarded with noise: notifications, multitasking, and the temptation of shortcuts in a world of instant answers. But what if we gave students something richer? In this keynote, we explore how to cultivate the habits of deeper thinking, sustained focus, and meaningful learning across content...
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Speakers

Dr. John Spencer

Professor, Bestselling Author, Spencer Education

Dr. John Spencer is a former middle school teacher and current college professor who is passionate about seeing students reach their creative potential. He is the author of the bestselling books Launch, Empower, and Vintage Innovation, and The Depth Advantage. In 2013, he spoke at... Read More →

Tuesday November 17, 2026 9:45am - 10:10am EST
Ballroom

Main Stage

10:20am EST

Coffee break, networking, exhibits

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:20am - 10:50am EST

Join us for coffee, company, and conversation!

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:20am - 10:50am EST
Foyer

Break/Exhibits

10:50am EST

Context Matters: Creating and Delivering Differentiated AI Guidance (Falmouth Public Schools, MA)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST

TBA

Students and teachers need clear guidance on how and when to use AI in education. At the same time, the guidance must be flexible enough to meet the specific needs of academic departments and grade levels. In this session, we will share the process by which our district created AI guidance that aligns with our core values and responds to a broad range of viewpoints within our school community. The...
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Speakers

Sonia Tellier

Director of Professional Development and Innovation, Cape Cod Collaborative

Dr. Sonia Tellier earned her B.A. in English along with a minor in Secondary Education in 2001 from Bridgewater State University. Sonia began teaching at Falmouth High School later that year in September. She then earned her Masters in Educational Leadership in 2005 from Bridgewater... Read More →

Allyson Manchester

Teaching and Learning Specialist, Falmouth Public Schools

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST
TBA

Session

10:50am EST

Creating an Auxiliary Ecosystem for School-Wide Impact (St. Mark's School, MA)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST

TBA

How can schools leverage summer and auxiliary programs to advance both mission and margin? SPARC Advisors David Sullivan and Bob Rojee will share national trends, growth strategies, and best practices for building sustainable auxiliary programs that strengthen enrollment, maximize campus assets, and expand institutional reach. St. Mark’s School Director of Auxiliary Programs & Operational...
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Speakers

Kristi Jacobi

Director of Operations & Auxiliary Programs, St. Mark's School

Educator. Camp Aficionado. Seeker of Joy. Lover of all things Logistical. 25+ years of experience in the summer camp/out-of-school time/enrichment/non-profit world. I find my flow doing whatever I can to support other people having their best experience - from concept to clean-up... Read More →

Bob Rojee

Senior Advisor, SPARC

David Sullivan

Senior Advisor, SPARC

David began his career in education as an instructor, then Director, at Explo and later was on the faculty at Milton Academy and Northfield Mount Hermon School. For the last 23 of his 36 year career, he led The Brooklin School and Breakwater Learning, the latter being an educational... Read More →

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST
TBA

Session

10:50am EST

From Intent to Impact: A Practical WBL Seminar Model (Norwich Technical High School, CT)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST

TBA

Work-based learning (WBL) is a powerful opportunity, but schools often struggle to ensure every student has a consistent, meaningful experience. This session shares a practical WBL seminar model designed to bring clarity and purpose to workplace learning. Built as a two-part seminar in the junior and senior year, the model uses a restorative, discussion-based format where students reflect on real...
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Speakers

Michael J. Garcia

Dean of Students, Norwich Technical High School

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST
TBA

Session

10:50am EST

From Strategic Plans to Student Experience (Hisar School, Turkey)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST

TBA

Schools spend significant time developing strategic plans, competencies, goals, accreditation reports, innovation initiatives, and improvement frameworks. However, the true success of a strategy is not measured by the quality of the document itself, but by whether students actually experience its values and priorities in their everyday learning.This session explores how school leaders can create...
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Speakers

Meral Olcay

Assisstant General Director & Primary School Principal, Hisar School

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST
TBA

Session

10:50am EST

Website Chatbots: Guiding Families From Questions to Answers and Decisions (Finalsite)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST

TBA

School staff spend significant time answering parent and student questions, much of it repetitive and often outside regular school hours. This creates strain on teams and can lead to inconsistent information for families. In this session, we’ll share how schools around the world are using website chatbots to manage high volumes of routine inquiries while improving responsiveness and...
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Speakers

Max Eisl

Director of Sales, Finalsite

Meredith Kaplan

Director, Clients Success Global Markets, Finalsite

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST
TBA

Session

10:50am EST

What Students Experience When Leadership is Aligned (GEMS Education)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST

TBA

Leaders often judge effectiveness through plans and outcomes. Students, however, experience leadership through the clarity of expectations, the consistency of learning, and the coherence of adult practice across their school. This session explores leadership alignment through the lens of student experience. Grounded in the NEASC Framework for High Quality Learning, it considers how leadership...
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Speakers

Nargish Khambatta

Executive Vice President, GEMS Education

Tuesday November 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:50am EST
TBA

Session

11:50am EST

Lunch - Networking and Conversation

Tuesday November 17, 2026 11:50am - 12:20pm EST

Tuesday November 17, 2026 11:50am - 12:20pm EST
Ballroom

Meal

12:20pm EST

Lunch continues with Lunch continues with Student Performance, Awards, Panel Discussion

Tuesday November 17, 2026 12:20pm - 1:20pm EST

Continue lunch and join us for a student performance, followed by NEASC award recipients for 2026. Finally, we will have a panel discussion on AI and screen time

Tuesday November 17, 2026 12:20pm - 1:20pm EST
Ballroom

Main Stage

1:30pm EST

NEASC Commission Session - Independent Schools

Tuesday November 17, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EST

TBA

Join the staff of the NEASC Commission on Independent Schools for updates, Q&A, and conversation. We look forward to connecting with you in person!

Speakers

Edie Traina

Director for Accreditation and School Improvement, Independent Schools, NEASC

As director, Edie leads a robust team of accreditation professionals dedicated to supporting independent schools in adapting to the changing needs in education.

Prior to joining NEASC in 2024, Edie served as the Assistant Head of School for Faculty and Academics at the Taft School in Watertown, CT. While at Taft, she was responsible for leading daily school operations as well as strategic planning, policy review and coordination, and recruiting... Read More →

Carrie Wilson

Associate Director, NEASC

Carrie helps guide member schools through the NEASC Accreditation process and partners with them to create cultures of innovation, belonging, and improvement.

Having most recently served as the Head of School for All Saints Catholic Academy in Morrisville, Vermont, Carrie brings 25 years of school service as a classroom educator, administrator, and as a mentor for several Diocesan principals to her role at NEASC. She developed a depth of... Read More →

Beth Hamilton

Senior Associate Director, NEASC

Beth helps guide member schools through the NEASC Accreditation process and partners with them to create cultures of innovation, belonging, and improvement.

Beth joined the NEASC staff in 2016, bringing 35 years of experience in independent, public, and international schools in Connecticut, New Hampshire, Ohio, Brazil, and China. She was the Founding Lower School Head at the Wooster School in Danbury, CT and served as an elementary school... Read More →

Tuesday November 17, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EST
TBA

NEASC Commission Breakout

1:30pm EST

NEASC Commission Session - International Schools

Tuesday November 17, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EST

TBA

Join the staff of the NEASC Commission on International Education for updates, Q&A, and conversation. We look forward to connecting with you in person!

Speakers

Joseph Kotarski

Interim Director for Accreditation and School Improvement, Commission on International Education, NEASC

Drawn to NEASC because of his passion for school transformation, Joe joined the NEASC team in 2024 with over a decade of experience in the Middle East and North Africa where he served as Head of School and Director of Education. Prior to this Joe was an AP World History Teacher in... Read More →

Tuesday November 17, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EST
TBA

NEASC Commission Breakout

1:30pm EST

NEASC Commission Session - Public Schools

Tuesday November 17, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EST

TBA

Join the staff of the NEASC Commission on Public Schools for updates, Q&A, and conversation. We look forward to connecting with you in person!

Speakers

Alyson Geary

Director of Accreditation and School Improvement, Public Schools, NEASC

Tuesday November 17, 2026 1:30pm - 2:15pm EST
TBA

NEASC Commission Breakout

2:25pm EST

Aligning People, Systems and Resources Around High-Quality Learning Impacts (International School of Debrecen, Hungary)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST

TBA

The session will engage participants in exploring how a shared understanding of high quality learning, grounded in NEASC ACE Learning Principles, can centre school communities. Participants will consider the benefits of simplifying complex guiding statements into intentional, mission aligned, learner impacts that represent their graduate profile. They will reflect on how school learning and...
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Speakers

Tom McLean

Director, International School of Debrecen

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST
TBA

Session

2:25pm EST

From Deferred to Strategic: How Tech Partnership Transforms Operations (Waring School, MA)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST

TBA

As Finance and Operations Director at Waring School, Will Potter faced a familiar challenge: years of deferred technology maintenance, an overstretched IT department, and accumulated tech debt that left the school operationally vulnerable. What began as a needs assessment with OunceIT quickly evolved into a strategic opportunity to free up leadership capacity, reduce institutional risk, and help...
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Speakers

Jeremy Angoff

Founder and CEO, OunceIT

William Potter

Director of Finance and Operations, Waring School

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST
TBA

Session

2:25pm EST

From Policy to Practice: Centering Student Voice in School AI Strategy (WPS Institute, Panel)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST

TBA

Schools have moved fast on AI intent, with policies, vision statements, and pilots. Less has been done to measure impact or understand how students are experiencing AI: 81% of teachers say their school has an AI policy, but only 4-8% describe it as clear, and most students don't know what it is (Frontier, 2025; Challenge Success). This session opens with a panel of students from Boston College...
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Speakers

Jen Manning

Vice Principal of Academics, Notre Dame Academy

Student Speakers

Various schools

We are honored to welcome students from various local schools to the conference.

Laura Tavares

Executive Director, WPS Institute

Joseph McNamara

Director, Shields Center for Innovation at Boston College High School

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST
TBA

Session

2:25pm EST

From Promise to Proof: Tracking Transferable Skills in Our Schools (Mastery Transcript, Panel)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST

TBA

Many schools speak powerfully about preparing students with transferable skills that matter in college and beyond, yet turning these aspirations into measurable outcomes remains a challenge. How can we move beyond rhetoric to evidence? How can we be accountable, internally and externally, for the skills we claim to cultivate? Our panel of leaders from public, independent and international schools...
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Speakers

Mary Anne Moran

Co-Principal, Nipmuc Regional High School

Mary Anne Moran is Co-Principal of Nipmuc Regional High School. She began her career as an elementary educator and quickly made her way to the secondary level. She has been a member of the Nipmuc community for the last 22 years transitioning to the role of assistant principal 13 years... Read More →

John Clements

Co-Principal, Nipmuc Regional High School

John Clements is Co-Principal of Nipmuc Regional High School. He began his career at Nipmuc 26 years ago as an English teacher and has been an administrator at Nipmuc for 21 years, the past 14 as principal. John is a believer in the capacity of students, teachers, and school communities... Read More →

Gabrielle Lumbra

Director of Instruction & Learning, Franklin Northeast Supervisory Union

Gail Dahling-Hench

Assistant Superintendent, Madison Public Schools

https://www.madison.k12.ct.us/departments/central-office-staff-directory

Jason Cummmings

Director of Member Engagement, Mastery Transcript

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST
TBA

Session

2:25pm EST

From Voice to Impact: Aligning Strategy, Learning, and Practice (Somerset Berkley Regional High School. MA)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST

TBA

This interactive session demonstrates how leaders can move from strategic intent to measurable impact by aligning systems, stakeholder voice, and professional learning. Facilitators will share how focus groups with students, faculty, and community members informed the creation of a strategic plan and Vision of the Graduate. Participants will examine how this work led to a three-year, cohort based...
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Speakers

Jeffrey Schoonover

Superintendent, Somerset Berkley Regional High School

Susan Brelsford

Principal, Somerset Berkley Regional High School

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST
TBA

Session

2:25pm EST

Leveraging Data to Boost Student Engagement and Well-Being (Millbrook School, NY)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST

TBA

In the dynamic landscape of education, the use of data has become increasingly vital in shaping effective strategies to support student engagement and well-being. Participants will embark on a journey of discovery, learning how the student engagement and well-being team at Millbrook School has both harnessed the power of existing data and innovated new streams of data to gain a deeper...
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Speakers

Billy Thom

LCSW; Director of Affective Education, Millbrook School

Billy Thom, LMSW, is a twelve year veteran of education practicing as a basketball coach, teacher, private and school-based licensed social worker, and public speaker. Working at Davidson College and Millbrook School over the past twelve years, Billy has coached in the NCAA tournament... Read More →

JJ Morrissey

Dean of Student Engagement and Well-Being, Millbrook School

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST
TBA

Session

2:25pm EST

The Power of Leveraging Local & Global Environments for Learner Impact (Brewster Madrid, Spain)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST

TBA

How can school leaders transform the intent of global citizenship into tangible learner impact? In this interactive session, leaders from Brewster demonstrate how to align institutional vision with daily practice by leveraging cross-campus networks and local environments to deepen student agency. Presenters will showcase how they move beyond traditional student exchanges and share strategies on...
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Speakers

Kat Simison

Network Director of Enrollment & External Affairs, Brewster Madrid (International Campus of Brewster Academy)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 2:25pm - 3:25pm EST
TBA

Session

3:25pm EST

Coffee break, networking, exhibits

Tuesday November 17, 2026 3:25pm - 4:00pm EST

Tuesday November 17, 2026 3:25pm - 4:00pm EST
Foyer

Break/Exhibits

4:00pm EST

A Formative Approach to Community: The House System (Cardinal Spellman High School, MA)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST

TBA

At Cardinal Spellman High School, leaders launched a House System to strengthen belonging, mentorship, leadership, and student engagement. In this interactive session, participants will explore how relationship-centered structures can transform school culture and support high-quality learning for all students. Presenters will share the design process, Year 1 implementation strategies, early...
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Speakers

Jessica Graham

Associate Head of School for Student Life, Cardinal Spellman High School

Eleanor Hurley

Director of Houses, Cardinal Spellman High School

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
TBA

Session

4:00pm EST

Assess This: How Learners Want To Demonstrate Their Learning (Learnlife)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST

TBA

In this hands-on session, participants will rethink assessment by redesigning it from the learner’s perspective. You’ll prototype learner-created ways of demonstrating understanding and experience what it’s like to choose how you show what you know. Through interactive activities, you’ll generate new assessment formats, receive high-quality peer feedback, and explore practical methods for...
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Speakers

Leigh Fitzgerald

Chief Executive Officer, Learnlife

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
TBA

Session

4:00pm EST

College, Career, and Life-Ready: The Postgraduate Experience (Winchendon School, MA)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST

TBA

This session will explore an innovative postgraduate readiness model designed to equip students to succeed in college, careers, and life through rigorous academic courses and experiential learning. Participants will learn how postgraduate students engage in developmentally appropriate coursework that elevates reading comprehension, promotes effective study habits, strengthen academic writing,...
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Speakers

Tyrone Black

Associate Head of School, The Winchendon School

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
TBA

Session

4:00pm EST

Core Values in the Classroom: Living the Mission Statement (Ridgefield High School, CT)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST

TBA

This session transforms abstract values into a student-driven graduation requirement. We share how Ridgefield High School operationalized its Core Values into a non-evaluative checklist of specific attributes and skills to guide authentic reflection rather than using a rigid, graded rubric. Participants will explore our delivery model, from structured advisory lessons to embedding value-aligned...
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Speakers

Christine Hopkinson

Assistant Principal, Ridgefield High School

Eileen Anton

Student Life Coordinator/Social Studies Teacher, Ridgefield High School

Ashley Brooksbank

Social Studies Teacher, Ridgefield High School

Veteran Social Studies teacher (AP World and AP Psychology) and first time NEASC Co-Chair for our Accreditation Committee.

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
TBA

Session

4:00pm EST

One Page Leadership Plans for School Improvement that Work! (Simsbury Public Schools, CT)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST

TBA

No more useless school improvement plans! Develop a document you will actually use to get the results you are striving for! Through the use of the Simsbury Public Schools' example, participants will learn about our one-page leadership plans for school improvement: alignment to district goals, development, messaging, execution and accountability. Learn how to take challenging leadership work into...
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Speakers

Maggie Seidel

Principal, Simsbury High School

Susan Homrok-Lemke

Assistant Superintendent, Simsbury Public Schools

I am the very proud Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning for the Simsbury Public Schools. I am passionate about systems, structures, and thoughts regarding how to bring these practices to scale at all levels of our organization.

Matt Curtis

Superintendent, Simsbury Public Schools

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
TBA

Session

4:00pm EST

The Walled Garden: Leadership Framework for Paper-First AI Integration (Overture)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST

TBA

School leaders face a core question: how do you move from broad AI policy intent to measurable classroom impact, without exposing students to unsafe direct AI use and without relying on 1:1 screens and increased screen time? In this interactive workshop, participants experience the Walled Garden model — a paper-first, teacher-guided framework where instructors mediate all AI interaction while...
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Speakers

Aspen Buckingham

Founder and CEO, Overture

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
TBA

Session

4:00pm EST

Who We Are Is How We Lead: ILTs, Trust, and Impact (Leaders Need Systems)

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST

TBA

Instructional Leadership Teams (ILTs) are only as effective as the leaders who run them- and leaders are only as effective as the self-awareness and trust they bring to the work. Rooted in Brené Brown’s principle that “who we are is how we lead,” this interactive session explores the intersection of inner leadership work and practical team systems. Participants will examine how...
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Speakers

Lindsie Boykin

Principal Consultant, Leaders Need Systems

Lindsie Boykin is the founder of Leaders Need Systems, LLC (LNS), a leadership development organization supporting leaders to “transform intentions into impact”. Systems are critical for school leaders because they transform good intentions into consistent, sustainable, and scalable... Read More →

Tuesday November 17, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
TBA

Session

5:00pm EST

Reception

Tuesday November 17, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm EST

Join us for conversation and connection. Appetizers and beverages will be served. Entertainment will be provided.

Thank you to our reception sponsor, Jostens!

Tuesday November 17, 2026 5:00pm - 6:30pm EST
Foyer

Networking

7:15am EST

Breakfast

Wednesday November 18, 2026 7:15am - 8:15am EST

Good morning and welcome another day of the conference. A buffet breakfast will be available to kick off your day.

Thank you to our breakfast sponsor, Endicott!

Wednesday November 18, 2026 7:15am - 8:15am EST
Foyer

Meal

7:15am EST

Women's Leadership Breakfast

Wednesday November 18, 2026 7:15am - 8:15am EST

TBA

Wednesday November 18, 2026 7:15am - 8:15am EST
TBA

Meal

7:15am EST

Information/Registration Desk (available 7:15a-1:30p)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 7:15am - 1:30pm EST

NEASC staff will be available at the Welcome/Registration desk throughout the active hours of the conference. Stop by for assistance and to say hello!IMPORTANT:Remember to download the Sched app and connect to the #NEASC2026 event to use the agenda and networking tools. Make sure to set your profile to "Public" so you can interact with other attendees and turn on announcements so you don't miss...
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Wednesday November 18, 2026 7:15am - 1:30pm EST
Foyer

Break/Exhibits

7:15am EST

Visit our exhibitors!

Wednesday November 18, 2026 7:15am - 1:30pm EST

Stop by to say hello to our conference exhibitors. View the complete exhibitor directory.

Wednesday November 18, 2026 7:15am - 1:30pm EST
Foyer

Break/Exhibits

8:15am EST

Welcome, EdTalk, Featured Speaker - Recentering What Matters: Listening to Student Voice

Wednesday November 18, 2026 8:15am - 9:30am EST

Featured Speaker: Jon Nordmeyer
Recentering What Matters: Listening to Student Voice -
Centering the voices of students and families to better understand the intersection of language, identity, and learning.

Speakers

Jon Nordmeyer

School Network Director, Multilingual Learning Research Center

Wednesday November 18, 2026 8:15am - 9:30am EST
Ballroom

Main Stage

9:30am EST

Coffee break, networking, exhibits

Wednesday November 18, 2026 9:30am - 10:00am EST

Join us for coffee, company, and conversation!

Wednesday November 18, 2026 9:30am - 10:00am EST
Foyer

Break/Exhibits

10:00am EST

Building the Academic Commons: A Hub of Support and Belonging (Brooks School, MA)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST

TBA

In this session, participants will learn about Brooks School's journey to opening the Academic Commons in the Fall 2026. From the physical building construction to program expansion, we will discuss how we centered student learning, belonging and support. We have reimagined our learning center, library, and information and educational technology departments to become a new Academic Commons to...
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Speakers

Currie Joya Huntington

Dean of Academic Affairs, Brooks School

Joanna McDonough

Dean of Teaching and Learning, Brooks School

Karina Moltz

Director of the Learning Center, Brooks School

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST
TBA

Session

10:00am EST

Emotionally Intelligent Leadership: The Key to School-Wide Well-Being (Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST

TBA

This interactive workshop explores how emotionally intelligent leadership can strengthen school climate, staff morale, student engagement, and family trust. Grounded in research from the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and the presenter's experience in working with thousands of school leaders over two decades, this session will offer practical strategies for leading through conflict,...
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Speakers

Nicole Elbertson

Director of Training and Implementation, Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST
TBA

Session

10:00am EST

From Initiative to Identity: Making Inclusion the Default, Not the Program (Bangor School Department - Downeast School, ME)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST

TBA

This session explores how schools can shift from viewing inclusion as an initiative to embedding it as a core schoolwide identity. Participants will examine how the belief that all students are general education students can shape instructional planning, staffing, and scheduling. The session highlights systems changes that reduce pull-out services and increase push-in supports within inclusive...
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Speakers

Sarah Vickers

Building Administrator, Bangor School Department/ Downeast School

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST
TBA

Session

10:00am EST

From Parent Engagement to Learner Impact: Designing Family Partnerships (Leipzig International School, Germany)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST

TBA

Many learning communities invest significant time and energy into parent engagement through events, committees, volunteering, and communication structures. Yet leaders are increasingly asking a deeper question: What impact are these efforts actually having on learners? Grounded in the NEASC Framework for High-Quality Learning, this interactive unplugged session explores how schools can move beyond...
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Speakers

Chrissie Sorenson

Head of School, TKonnect

Brandie Smith

Head of School, Leipzig International School

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST
TBA

Session

10:00am EST

Seven Lively Paradoxes: Resolving the Unresolvable (Tabor Academy, Former Head of School)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST

TBA

This Session provides independent school leaders tools to recognize and resolve fundamental paradoxal realities of leadership. It articulates seven "lively paradoxes" and opens discussion of practical approaches to resolving them. These will include "Paradox of Leadership": Leadership requires confidence only gained by leading; "Paradox of Trustees": Trustees support the head but depend on the...
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Speakers

Jay Stroud

Former Director for NEASC Commission on Independent Schools; Former NEASC Board President; Former Head of School for Tabor Academy, Former Head of School at Tabor Academy

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST
TBA

Session

10:00am EST

The Goal Was Never Dependence: Teaching in an AI World (Ridgefield High School, CT)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST

TBA

Students in my classroom have increasingly responded to offers of teacher help with a surprising phrase: “I’m okay--I already figured it out.” In classrooms shaped by generative AI, what happens when students no longer depend on teachers for immediate answers, feedback, or drafting support? This unplugged session invites educational leaders to rethink the role of the teacher in high-quality...
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Speakers

Matthew A. Goetz

English Teacher & NEASC Accreditation Chair, Ridgefield High School

After a decade as an officer in the United States Navy, Matt transitioned into education, earning a master’s degree in Education from Harvard University before beginning his teaching career in the International Department of Beijing National Day School (北京十一学校), a 5,000-student... Read More →

Wednesday November 18, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am EST
TBA

Session

11:10am EST

Cultivating Excellence: Strategic Leadership for Principals (Hermon School Department, ME)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST

TBA

In an era of rapid educational change, the role of the principal has evolved from operational manager to visionary strategist and instructional leader. This workshop explores the critical intersection of district support and school-site leadership, providing Superintendents with a framework to empower their principals as drivers of student success. Participants will gain: * Strategies to support...
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Speakers

Barbara Sargent

Superintendent, Hermon School Department

Barbara Sargent is the proud Superintendent of Schools for the Hermon School Department in Maine. A former New Jersey educator and leader, Barbara is widely published in areas of best leadership practices and women’s leadership. Her AASA Schools of Thought blogs provide practical guidance on driving student achievement, supporting school leaders, and navigating a long and successful career... Read More →

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST
TBA

Session

11:10am EST

Designing School Community: Restorative Justice from Policy to Practice (Halcyon London International School, UK)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST

TBA

School leaders will be challenged to view restorative justice not as a disciplinary add-on, but as a whole-school framework that builds the human infrastructure for high-quality learning. Drawing on experience as Head of Student Wellbeing and Restorative Justice, I will explore the gap between restorative intent and impact—what it looks like in practice and why it persists, even in values-driven...
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Speakers

Nito Harvey

Director of Student Wellbeing, Halcyon London International School

I work with schools and organisations to build healthier cultures, strengthen wellbeing, and respond to conflict and harm in ways that are both human and effective.My work focuses on Restorative Practice, wellbeing strategy, safeguarding-informed leadership, and culture change. I... Read More →

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST
TBA

Session

11:10am EST

From Compliance to Commitment: Conditions That Drive Learning (Mount Saint Charles Academy, RI)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST

TBA

School leaders often focus on improving instruction through new initiatives and accountability measures, yet implementation frequently becomes fragmented across classrooms. This interactive session reframes implementation through the conditions educators experience while carrying out reform. Drawing on research conducted in a large urban district under state takeover, participants will examine how...
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Speakers

Alan Tenreiro

President, Mount Saint Charles Academy

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST
TBA

Session

11:10am EST

From Tokenism to Partnership: Authentic Student Agency (Danvers Public Schools, MA)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST

TBA

This interactive session transforms the intent of student voice into impactful shared governance. Participants analyze power structures and identify opportunities for students to serve as co-designers of the learning environment.We demonstrate how to move beyond tokenism toward inclusive Equity Advisory Boards. Attendees engage in a live Fishbowl discussion facilitated by student co-presenters,...
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Speakers

Alan Strauss

Principal, Danvers High School

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST
TBA

Session

11:10am EST

The Impact of an Athletic Program Review (NEASC)

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST

TBA

Educationally-based school athletics are an important part of a school's program. The NEASC Athletic Program Review process provides schools with an opportunity to ensure that their programs are serving the best interest of students. In this session you will hear from an athletic administrator, school and district level leaders, and the leader of a state athletic association about the impact the...
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Speakers

George Edwards

Chief Accreditation Officer, NEASC

Wednesday November 18, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm EST
TBA

Session

12:10pm EST

Lunch + EdTalk

Wednesday November 18, 2026 12:10pm - 1:30pm EST

Join us for lunch and our closing sessions beginning with an EdTalk.

Wednesday November 18, 2026 12:10pm - 1:30pm EST
Ballroom

Main Stage

12:10pm EST

Lunch continues with Student Speakers from TechBoston Academy

Wednesday November 18, 2026 12:10pm - 1:30pm EST

Speakers

Students from TechBoston Academy

Wednesday November 18, 2026 12:10pm - 1:30pm EST
Ballroom

Main Stage

1:30pm EST

Conference Concludes

Wednesday November 18, 2026 1:30pm - 1:45pm EST

TBA

Thank you for joining us! Safe travels...

Wednesday November 18, 2026 1:30pm - 1:45pm EST
TBA