Previewing the Annual Event: Connecting Leaders, Impacting Education

As the landscape of education and the workforce continue to evolve, the need to redefine student success to ensure they are future-ready becomes even more pressing. The EdLeader21 Network Annual Event, hosted by Battelle for Kids, has long been at the forefront of leading this work. This year, from October 21-23 in Indianapolis, educators from across the country will gather to discuss how to ensure students are not only prepared for today’s challenges but are equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the future.

With an action-packed program designed to spark change, here’s what you can expect at this year’s EdLeader21 Network Annual Event:

1. From Portrait to Impact: Ensuring Tangible Outcomes

Many districts have embraced the Portrait of a Graduate as a vision for empowering educators so that all students are future-ready, but how do we ensure the Portrait leads to measurable outcomes? One key area of focus at this year’s event will be on how districts are successfully transitioning from Portrait to impact. During Monday's opening session, attendees will hear from leaders engaged in the work of figuring out how to finally measure critical durable skills. The panel will include North Carolina Department of Public Instruction State Superintendent Catherine Truitt, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Chief Academic Officer Paula Wilkins, Ed.D., ETS Chief of Assessment Design and Innovation Danielle Eisenberg, and Carnegie Foundation Director of the Future of Assessment David Sherer, Ed.D.

2. Empowering Student Agency and Voice

Empowering students to take ownership of their learning is another key topic this year. Sessions will delve into fostering student agency and voice, helping educators develop strategies that encourage students to become active agents in their own education. Learning sessions on this topic will be available from educators from Sunnyside Unified School District (Arizona), Durango School District (Colorado), and Circleville City Schools (Ohio), while Carlos Moreno will discuss his new book, “Finding Your Leadership Soul,” and engage in a conversation with Battelle for Kids President and CEO Mike Duncan, Ed.D. about what students can teach educators about love, care, and vulnerability. Student voice will also be showcased throughout the conference venue through various displays.

3. Deeper Learning for Every Student

As districts push for deeper learning, equitable access to it remains a vital focus. At this year’s event, you’ll hear from districts that are working to ensure equitable access to high-quality learning experiences for all students, regardless of background. Learn how educators are integrating equity into their Portrait of a Graduate initiatives and ensuring all students have the opportunity to succeed.

4. Fostering Hope, Well-Being, and Belonging

At the heart of the educational experience is a sense of belonging. This year’s event will explore how districts are creating cultures of hope, well-being, and belonging for both students and educators. By focusing on these crucial elements, districts can improve engagement, support mental health, and drive academic success. Expect to come away with practical strategies to foster a caring environment of well-being in your district.

5. Innovative Approaches to Professional Learning

Empowering educators is key to cultivating impact. The Annual Event will offer sessions on professional learning and development, focusing on how to support educators as they implement deeper learning practices. From fostering collaboration to developing future-ready teaching skills, the event will showcase ways districts are innovating in educator support to drive student success.

Anticipated Highlights

Portrait to Practice Expo

This year's Portrait to Practice Expo will feature 20 school districts from 12 different states. The Expo provides attendees an opportunity to learn how a variety of learning organizations have launched, put into practice, and delivered deeper learning experiences.

AI in Action

As artificial intelligence continues to be one of the most in-demand topics to explore for educators, the Annual Event will allow EdLeader21 Network member Eden Prairie Schools (Minnesota) with an opportunity to share how their district has embraced AI and put it into action district-wide. From the main stage Eden Prairie Superintendent Josh Swanson, Ed.D., and Executive Director of Personalized Learning Robb Virgin, Ed.D., will share with attendees on opening day.

Battelle for Kids Rebrand

As Battelle for Kids moves into its next great chapter, EdLeader21 Network members attending the Annual Event will get the opportunity to learn more about the new brand and the Future-Ready Journey Map.

School Tours

Attendees who registered will have the opportunity to explore three schools in the Municipal School District of Warren Township (MSD Warren) on Wednesday, October 23. The tour showcases how this EdLeader21 Network member district has put their Portrait to practice.

The EdLeader21 Network Annual Event provides a unique opportunity to connect with forward-thinking leaders, gain insights from real-world success stories, and discover new strategies that will help your district move from Portrait to practice—and ultimately, to impact. Whether you’re focused on deepening student learning, fostering equitable outcomes for all, or supporting educators, this event offers actionable takeaways you can implement in your district right away.

Join Us in Indianapolis

We’re excited to see so many education leaders committed to redefining success, building future-ready learning environments, and empowering both students and educators alike.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting event. There is still time to join us in Indianapolis in two weeks and be a part of the conversation shaping the future of education. Learn more about the Network and Annual Event registration.