Exhibitor Registration
Exhibitor Load in (by 4:00 p.m.)
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Attendee Registration
Location: Reg Desks 1 and 2
Hotel Room Check-in Kiosk Open
Location: Kilimanjaro Lobby
Education Sessions I: Fostering Community Collaborations to Grow Public Understanding and Build Brand Identity
Location: Ironwood
Is your school district sitting on untapped opportunities to connect more broadly with parents, empty-nesters and the local business community? What types of collaborations could flourish if only more stakeholders understood your strategic plan, your academic initiatives and why resources are being directed at them? The relationship between good schools and property values is indisputable. But school districts often struggle with how to get the word out to each distinct stakeholder group and build a brand. This workshop will highlight best practices within two PA school districts for growing community engagement through comprehensive external communication efforts.
Education Sessions I: From Chaos to Civility: Charting a New Course Toward Strategic and Effective Board Culture
Location: Sagewood
In this session, presenters will explore the transformation of one school board from a state of disarray and public embarrassment to one of effective governance and civility. This session highlights the strategic leadership decisions and the subtle cultural behavioral strategies that were instrumental in creating a positive dynamic on the board over time and moving away from a disruptive, chaotic and highly polarized governance structure. The discussion will cover how the board was transformed through implementing key aspects of effective board governance, including the environment, board composition, leadership, behavior management, training, and governance structure. Presenters will share practical strategies for fostering a collaborative and respectful board culture, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive training, clear governance structures and thoughtful leadership.
Education Sessions I: Innovative Pathways: Exploring Germany's Technical Education Blueprint
Location: Rosewood
Join participants from the PSBA Trust Institute’s international study group who traveled to North Rhine-Westphalia in April 2024 to learn about Germany’s educational system widely known for its dual-track career technical/academic education for students. The career technical track combines theoretical education with practical training in real-world jobs. In this session, learn how the German model can serve as a blueprint for our educational systems to improve the technical training and apprenticeships for our students. Study group participants will share their experiences and key learning from their study group trip, which included meeting with federal, state and local officials as well as educational system leaders and corporate leaders working together to educate and train students.
Education Sessions I: The School Board Governance Loop: A Model for Successful Board/Admin Teamwork
Location: Aloeswood
A school district's culture originates from its leadership and extends throughout the entire organization, significantly influencing the success of both students and staff. In this session, presenters will explore the collaborative dynamic between the board, which concentrates on governance, and the administration, which focuses on management, to ensure the effective operation of the school system. Utilizing the School Board Governance Loop model and real-world examples, participants will have the opportunity to review, discuss and share best practices in board-administration relations.
Education Sessions II: Emerging Trends in Teen ATOD Use and Overdose Reversal
Location: Ironwood
In this session, participants will learn the latest trends in drug and alcohol use among teens. Presenters will address many of the "legal" substances in our schools (Delta, Kratom and Gas Station heroin) as well as the use and dangers of medical cannabis among teens. They will also discuss the prevalence of fake pills and its effect on the increase of overdose deaths among young people. Participants will be trained in the use of Narcan and the importance of ease of access due to the fact that fentanyl is being found in so many drugs including THC and nicotine vapes.
Education Sessions II: 2024 Legal Highlight Reel
Location: Orange
Learn about significant developments in school law from PSBA's staff attorneys.
Education Sessions II: Besser Vorbereitete Lehrkräfte (Better Prepared Teaching Staff): German Strategies for Improving Teacher Readiness
Location: Sagewood
Join participants from the PSBA Trust Institute’s international study group who traveled to North Rhine-Westphalia in April 2024 to learn how the German K-12 education system supports teacher training, recruitment and retention, and how we might innovate Pennsylvania teacher training. Presenters will share stories of success and challenges in the German system, discuss similarities and differences to Pennsylvania public education, and analyze the extensive investments and resources allocated to teacher training in Germany resulting in higher job satisfaction, greater retention and better student outcomes. No system is perfect, and this session will explore considerations for improvements in our successful but challenged system in Pennsylvania.
Education Sessions II: Finding Equity in Student Placement Through Kindergarten Registration
Location: Rosewood
Kindergarten registration has evolved over the years to become a process that introduces students to the school setting in a welcoming environment while collecting valuable information that sets the stage for a student’s school career. The data collection, combined with a learning experience for the students, is the foundation of a successful kindergarten registration process. Join speakers from Clearfield Area School District to learn innovative practices that can be adapted to meet the unique needs of your district to provide an equitable kindergarten registration process. Understand how to make data-driven decisions and provide a memorable experience for your students and their families.
Education Sessions II: How Superintendents Can Improve the Evaluation, Development and Retention of High-Quality Principals
Location: Aloeswood
Research demonstrates that principal evaluation is often not aligned to professional development. As a result, the principal evaluation can become a "check-the-box" activity resulting in principals feeling isolated and unsupported. Many leave the profession. This session presents current research and actionable practices for superintendents to implement in their district to lead and improve the evaluation, development and retention of high-quality school principals.
Exhibit Hall Open
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Exhibitor Reception
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Conference Opening Session
School Leader Awards Dinner and Student Showcase
Location: Kalahari Ballroom
Exhibitor Hospitalities
Exhibit Hall Open
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Attendee Breakfast
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Attendee Registration
Location: Reg Desk 1 and 2
Exhibitor Registration
Location: Reg Desk 1 and 2
General Session & Keynote
Dr. John Hodge
Location: Kalahari Ballroom
Education Sessions III: When the Team of 10 Only Has Nine Members: Dealing With the Difficult School Director
Location: Rosewood
This presentation will provide ideas and suggestions on how to welcome new school directors and how to deal with members that inhibit the good work for the benefit of students and the community.
Education Sessions III: Financial Stability – The Key Metrics to Watch
Location: Kalahari A
Assuring your district’s future strength and stability is crucial for excelling in the present. Do you have the strategies, processes and tools in place to drive financial strength, stability and sustainability? Learn how one district is using data and analytics to create a culture where data is used to drive decisions that impact the financial condition of the district.
Education Sessions III: Kids Really Are Different: How Cognitive Skills Have Changed Since the Pandemic
Location: Aloeswood
This session will examine research on changes in cognitive skills across 48,000 students pre- and post-COVID. The results validate what teachers have been saying for years – the pandemic definitely affected how kids learn. Presenters reviewed objective data on student performance on 10 unique cognitive skills, including reasoning, attention, memory and flexible thinking. These are the core building blocks for learning and behavior. Learn how brains have changed and what that implies for making necessary changes to curriculum and instruction to ensure that kids are able to learn and retain core foundational knowledge and build key skills.
Education Sessions III: Mental Wellness in Schools and Communities
Location: Sagewood
Understanding the complex impact of developmental trauma within schools is a paradigm shift for educators. Exploring cultural shifts within school districts is key to developing connections with families and students who experience adversity. Drawing on over 12 years of experience in providing trauma-sensitive specialty programming across Pennsylvania's school districts, this presentation aims to educate attendees on the significant impact of adversity in contemporary educational settings. Speakers will highlight successful partnerships with community-based experts and school districts, provide foundational knowledge of trauma-informed care, explore the correlation between trauma symptoms and behaviors, and present evidence-based engagement and teaching strategies to foster a safe and supportive learning environment.
Education Sessions III: Peer Jury: A Model for School-Based Court Diversion Programs
Location: Kalahari H
This presentation will outline how a district established a school-based court diversion program designed to keep first-time offenders out of court by capitalizing on the most influential relationships in their lives – their peers. This model program is a cooperative effort by schools, peers, parents and other stakeholders. It is hoped that this program will have a longer-lasting effect than judgement by adults and that offenders and peer jurors will become more aware of the American judicial system and its practical application. School officials and/or school-based law enforcement will leave this session with the resources and templates necessary to go back to their schools and establish an effective school-based court diversion program.
Education Sessions III: What Educational Leaders Should Know About Construction and Renewable Procurement Programs
Location: Ironwood
In this session, learn how to navigate construction and renewable procurement programs. Understand how these initiatives can reduce your school district's environmental footprint, unlock cost-saving opportunities, enhance your learning environment, prepare students for a sustainable future, and engage the community and stakeholders. Join us for this informative session and gain the tools to make informed decisions about your school district's construction and energy procurement needs.
Attendee Lunch
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Exhibit Hall Open
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Afternoon Beverage Break
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Educational Sessions IV: Cherish Their Minds, Change Your Schools: Implementing Comprehensive Mental Health Programming in Your District
Location: Kalahari A
The Greater Johnstown School District (GJSD) was seeking to prevent further outplacements for their elementary students with intensive mental health and behavioral health needs. Through a partnership with Effective School Solutions, GJSD was able to provide comprehensive in-school therapeutic support for those students. As a result, GJSD did not need to outplace any elementary students during the 2023-24 school year. In this session, learn how Dr. Amy Arcurio's decision to implement comprehensive therapeutic mental health programming in her district changed both the lives of students in need as well as the entire school community for the better.
Educational Sessions IV: Education Next – Leading for a New Vision, Coming Together for Public Education
Location: Rosewood
Unleash the future of K-12 education! Join us to hear an update on Education Next, a collaborative between four professional organizations in PA, designed to spark innovation, inspire change and lead with vision. Leading toward a new vision necessitates a paradigm shift, encompassing a holistic, innovative and inclusive approach to education, challenging traditional norms, and embracing a learning environment suitable for 21st-century learners. This requires leaders who are transformative, visionary and empathetic, capable of managing change, leveraging technology, and cultivating a culture of continuous learning. Learn how this work is impacting educational entities across our state.
Educational Sessions IV: Increasing Equitable and Efficient Family Engagement
Location: Aloeswood
In this session, attendees will learn how Pocono Mountain West Jr. High School has increased family engagement through effective, efficient and equitable communication through TalkingPoints. With ease of use for teachers and parents, the school is better able engage with families and break down language barriers and tech-access barriers in support of improved attendance and student outcomes through TalkingPoints. Presenters will examine examples and data, discuss implementation and hear from participants on their strategies for effective family engagement.
Educational Sessions IV: Moving From an Adult-Focused to a Student-Outcome-Focused School Board
Location: Ironwood
The purpose of the school board is to develop student-outcome-based goals aligned to the district comprehensive plan to drive the overall success of the students, and ultimately, the district. Student outcomes don’t change until adult behaviors change, therefore, changing adult behavior is a powerful lever for improving student outcomes. In this session, learn more about how school board director can engage in a never-ending continuous improvement process which is built on these foundational cornerstones: Focus Mindset, Clarify Priorities, Monitor Process, Align Resources and Communicate Results.
Educational Sessions IV: Our Journey in Shaping Workforce Readiness and Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Educational Settings
Location: Kalahari H
In this presentation, Berks Career and Technology Center will share innovative approaches to career and technical education (CTE) and artificial intelligence (AI) implementation. Gain valuable insights and practical strategies for school leaders and school board directors, demonstrating where education and technology work together for the benefit of students and staff. Engage in meaningful dialogue about the role of CTE in shaping future workforce readiness and the integration of AI in educational settings.
Educational Sessions IV: School Safety Preparedness: Addressing Emergent Trends Beyond Drills
Location: Sagewood
Join leaders from the Pennsylvania School Safety Institute (PennSSI) for an interactive session on emergent school safety trends. School safety now encompasses many interrelated aspects, including student and staff mental and behavioral health, physical and campus safety, and broader school community threats. This session will explore these trends, plus changes in statewide data and student protective factors, substance use awareness, and strategies to improve local school safety practices.
Nutrition Break
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Hotel Room Check-in Kiosk Open
Location: Kilimanjaro Lobby
Educational Sessions V: Solving the Mystery – Financial Information That Makes Sense
Location: Rosewood
Do your eyes glaze over when you see those multiple page Excel reports? Excel is an amazing tool and has its place. Telling your district’s financial story in a way that is understandable and relevant is critical to making decisions. All district decisions have a financial impact; therefore, a high-level comprehension of the financial picture is critical to your district’s success. Learn how one district has turned its financial presentations from boring to interesting. The result is better decision-making. Assuring your district’s future strength and stability is crucial for excelling in the present.
Educational Sessions V: Sustaining Leadership Through School Director Turnover
Location: Ironwood
Elections have consequences. For school districts, the resulting churn of new school board directors can be very disruptive. Also, consider the increase in superintendent turnover in Pennsylvania. The loss of leadership and institutional knowledge caused by such change can cause significant chaos in any school district. After 12 years, Superintendent Ken Berlin and school director Andy Pushchak are the only familiar faces at their school board meetings. Join them as they talk about practical strategies to build a culture of effective board operation that can sustain leadership through turnover.
Educational Sessions V: Understanding Career and Technical Center Financing
Location: Sagewood
Career and technology centers (CTC) have capital needs, just as school districts do. Financing those needs is more complicated due to the governance structure of CTCs. Hear from a CTC executive director, a joint operating committee board member, and a municipal advisor about the key milestones associated with financing these capital projects.
Educational Sessions V: Forging Ahead: Leveraging School-University Partnerships to Develop Teacher Pipelines Within Existing Budgets
Location: Aloeswood
This presentation will explore a school-university partnership and provide an academic and fiscal roadmap regarding this ongoing work and its potential to impact teacher retention and a teacher pipeline. Specifically, participants will learn about the conceptual framework for the Schuylkill Valley School District and Kutztown University’s College of Education Teacher Leadership Academy for Literacy. This school-university partnership was designed to bridge theory into practice by rethinking professional learning through the lens of instructional coaching with a focus on literacy within a single elementary school setting. The partnership established a clear purpose to increase student achievement through developing teacher-leaders who are able to coach and provide professional learning to the larger school community including the university’s teacher candidates.
Educational Sessions V: How to Eliminate Your School District's Professional Development Barriers with P.L.A.Y. (Professional Learning and You)
Location: Kalahari A
In today's educational landscape, professional development (PD) is pivotal to enhancing teaching practices and student outcomes. Yet, many districts face significant barriers in implementing effective PD programs that truly empower educators. This presentation introduces a transformative approach to PD – P.L.A.Y. (Professional Learning and You) – designed to dismantle these barriers and foster a culture of continuous growth and learning among educators. This session will explore the innovative P.L.A.Y. framework, which integrates personalized, collaborative and sustained professional learning experiences tailored to meet the diverse needs of educators within your district.
Educational Sessions V: It Takes Teamwork: A School Board Working Together to Improve Student Learning
Location: Kalahari H
Discover how a school board and superintendent work together, focused on continuous improvement and the district mission. Learn about the processes and practices of Ephrata Area School District board governance, including methods and strategies which enable a positive working atmosphere. Explore and review the Four Quadrants of Board Governance, reflective surveys, score cards and workshop sessions.
Exhibitor Reception
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Attendee Buffet Breakfast
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Attendee Registration
Location: Reg Desk 1 and 2
Exhibitor Registration
Location: Reg Desk 1 and 2
Exhibit Hall Open
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Early Bird Sessions VI: Building Relationships with Unions: School Director Do's and Don'ts
Location: Aloeswood
The relationship between the school administration and the unions within the district is a critical piece to the district's overall success. School directors can support this relationship in a variety of ways. In this session, presenters will review key elements of contract negotiation, as well as ways to support the union relationship outside of the negotiation process. They will also discuss potential pitfalls that school directors may encounter regarding union relations and how to avoid falling into those traps. Both presenters have been board representatives to the negotiation team for all district unions and are regular attendees at quarterly meetings with representatives of the teachers' union.
Early Bird Sessions VI: Governing Through Policy, Implementing Through Administrative Regulations
Location: Zambezi
School boards govern through adopting and revising board policies to comply with state and federal law, regulations, court decisions and by the board's authority itself. Maintaining current and compliant board policy is an ongoing process. This session will provide an introduction to the elements of effective policies and discuss the roles of the board and administration in adopting policy and effective implementation through administrative regulations.
Early Bird Sessions VI: Is Your High School Athletic Program in Compliance with Title IX? Upper Perkiomen's Was Not
Location: Rosewood
Title IX violations are all encompassing and are enforced and investigated by the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR). Have you ever wondered if your high school athletic program is compliant or if there are some proactive steps you can take to position your district to be in compliance if you get a call from OCR for a potential issue? Join this informative and interactive session with presenters from the Upper Perkiomen School District as they share their journey over a six-year time span to address OCR's concerns with the district's athletic program, which closely resembles many local school district programs. Be proactive instead of reactive and avoid potential Title IX pitfalls with the key information shared in this session.
Early Bird Sessions VI: Places to Be Well: Student- and Staff-Centered Design
Location: Orange
This session will highlight how architects are planning school buildings for the needs of students and educators as human beings – addressing holistic wellness when designing fundamental building components. Presenters will show that it is possible to create safe and welcoming environments that are educationally focused yet mentally and emotionally supportive.
Energy Break
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom
Education Sessions VII: Data-Driven Leaders – Understanding, Leveraging and Discussing Student Achievement Data
Location: Zambezi
Examining the varied sources and measures of student achievement and using the data to inform district-level decisions is one of the most important functions of school district leadership. This session will provide an overview of how student achievement is measured, the kinds of questions directors can ask when analyzing student achievement data and how to speak to your community stakeholders about data. Data-Driven Leaders is also the first session in PSBA's four-part Fall Webinar Series, where school leaders from across the commonwealth will discuss district-level data from budget and finance to population growth trends.
Education Sessions VII: New School Construction and Major Renovations – Providing Best Value and Delivering for Your Community
Location: Rosewood
After 15 years and 13 major projects with delivered results, the School District of Lancaster and Fidevia will comprehensively address district construction needs and how to fulfill them as well as the pitfalls to avoid and how to navigate through and around them.
Education Sessions VII: Pedagogical Practice: K-12 and Emerging Strategies
Location: Nile
In this session, attendees will learn about K-12 pedagogical practices in the German education system, including the prioritization of vertical alignment, experiential learning and project-based learning. Additionally, learn how they align standards and assessments for schools and standards for teachers throughout the Länder (state). Highlights include how German students have the difficult conversations while processing the history of their country and the practices educators have in place to ensure schools in Germany are welcoming and inclusive.
Education Sessions VII: Pennsylvania Supreme Courts Ruling Significantly Expands Dual Enrollment Opportunity
Location: Orange
On October 18, 2023, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court affirmed an unreported Commonwealth Court decision stating that public school districts have an inherent managerial right to enter into dual enrollment agreements with postsecondary institutions. This right is not contingent on successful bargaining with the local union. This presentation will detail the specifics of the litigation that led to the Supreme Court ruling. It will also address how the ruling supports and empowers school districts to develop powerful dual enrollment programs.
Education Sessions VII: Social Media Guidelines for Elected Officials
Location: Aloeswood
Many times, elected officials and school employees have the belief that the public has no right to see their personal social media posts and email accounts. This presentation will dispel that mistaken belief and will walk through how posts on personal accounts may be open to the public under the Right-to-Know Law or through litigation discovery procedures. Because the public may have access to these posts, presenters will provide best practices to guard against disclosure of posts that were thought to be private. This session will include recent Pennsylvania Supreme Court rulings on this topic and guidance from other courts.
Attendee Lunch and closing keynote
little Steven van Zandt
Location: Kalahari Ballroom
Exhibitor Teardown
Location: Kilimanjaro Ballroom