Breakouts

Accelerating Student Learning with High Dosage Tutoring: LCPS Interventionist Program for Success

Lenoir County Public Schools (LCPS) is leading the way in creating an intervention program K-12 consisting of retired teachers and community members to grow and develop all learners. In response to the instructional gaps and deficits created by the consequences of a global pandemic, a structured, formal process has been developed around very specific skill deficits as indicated by data. Research-based instruction has been designed to address student needs coupled with progress monitoring to determine mastery of content taught within the small group setting.

Achieving Educational Excellence: 2025-2030 Strategic Plan for North Carolina Public Schools

The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and the State Board of Education (SBE) have developed a bold strategic plan: Achieving Educational Excellence. The five-year plan aims to position North Carolina’s public schools as the best in the United States by 2030, and it is the first joint plan between the SBE and the state superintendent in several years. This session will provide details on the strategic plan and how school board members and other community leaders can get involved in the implementation of the plan.

Aligning Data, Dollars, People, and Purpose to Elevate Every Learner

This session explores new research revealing how integrating multiple data points—including ability data—can transform K–12 systems from deficit-focused to strengths-based. Attendees will learn how accurate placement enhances equity, builds trust, and delivers measurable fiscal and academic ROI through stronger outcomes for multilingual and historically underserved students.

An Update on School Vouchers in North Carolina

This presentation provides an update on school vouchers in North Carolina. The historical context surrounding vouchers in the state is examined, along with recent data on funding, usage, and the current arguments presented by proponents and opponents. The presentation will also include an overview of studies about the impact of vouchers on school segregation and student achievement.

Assess–Plan–Learn: A Framework for School Boards to Lead Responsible AI Use in Education

Artificial intelligence is rapidly entering classrooms and district operations, raising urgent questions about equity, ethics, and responsible use. This breakout session introduces the Assess–Plan–Learn (APL) framework as a practical tool for school boards to guide decision-making around AI. Participants will explore how to ASSESS current practices, PLAN strategies that align with district goals and community values, and LEARN through feedback and evaluation. Attendees will leave with concrete questions and strategies to support responsible AI adoption in their schools.

Beginning Teacher Retention: Student-Centered Coaching

This breakout session explores how NC New Teacher Support integrates its Coaching Framework with Student-Centered Coaching to connect teacher development directly to student success. By focusing coaching cycles on actionable strategies, teachers can immediately apply what they learn to classroom practices, driving measurable improvements in student outcomes. The session will also share data on teacher retention, self-efficacy, and instructional quality, highlighting how aligning coaching with clear, measurable goals supports sustainable growth in both teacher effectiveness and student learning.

Behavioral Threat Assessment: Resources to Prevent Targeted Violence

For over 20 years, the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) has conducted research on the thinking and behaviors of those who commit acts of targeted school violence in an effort to prevent future tragedies. Key findings from this research indicate that establishing multidisciplinary threat assessment teams and encouraging school communities to report concerning behaviors are critical steps in the prevention of targeted violence. This presentation will highlight past incidents as well as relevant findings and recommendations from NTAC’s latest research on targeted school violence and interrupted school plots in the United States. It will also focus on how communities can use a multidisciplinary approach to identify, assess, and intervene with students exhibiting concerning or threatening behaviors as early as possible.

Best Practices for K-12 Community Engagement

This session will be focused on best practices and practical examples of successful community engagement sessions for various types of K-12 school projects. The purpose of the engagement sessions will often vary depending on the type of project, owner preferences, and the stage of design. Holding listening sessions, setting goals, and leading groups through visioning is a unique and thoughtful experience that is critical for project success and enhances the overall design of a project.

Blue Line Solutions: Your Partner in Automated Community Safety

Blue Line Solutions is a trusted leader in transparent, equitable traffic safety programs, partnering with local agencies to deliver customized solutions for school zones, construction areas, traffic corridors, and more. In this session, Blue Line Solutions will showcase its North Carolina–compliant automated speed enforcement technologies, specifically designed to protect vulnerable road users—including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Learn how the company can help your community implement effective, locally tailored strategies that save lives and build public trust.

Board Members and Social Media

This breakout session will discuss Board members and their use of social media, first amendment rights, case law and best practices.  

Building Literacy Momentum: How Roanoke Rapids Strengthened MTSS to Drive Early Literacy Gains

In this session, leaders from Roanoke Rapids Graded School District (RRGSD) will share how they transformed early literacy outcomes by reimagining their Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). Guided by a bold Vision 2035 and powered by Branching Minds, the district aligned resources, professional learning, and data systems to address challenges in literacy instruction. Attendees will learn how RRGSD streamlined intervention planning, improved data visibility, and fostered cross-level collaboration—resulting in measurable gains in K-3 reading performance, reduced unnecessary special education referrals, and greater teacher satisfaction. Presenters will highlight lessons learned, structures for sustaining momentum, and practical strategies that districts of any size can adapt to build equitable, efficient, and effective MTSS frameworks that drive long-term student success.

Building Strong Superintendent and Board Member Relationships

In this presentation, discuss the ways the board and superintendent can foster a strong, healthy, and mutually beneficial partnership. There will be time for a panel discussion between board members, superintendent, and attendees. Take a look at real world examples and be provided with takeaways that can be used to develop the symbiotic relationship that benefits the entire district. The foundation of any partnership is based on trust and the willingness to talk openly and communicate transparently. This presentation will also share problems that have arisen and the steps taken to resolve them.

Career and College Promise: Expanding Access to Dual Enrollment

This session will present rigorous research conducted on Career and College Promise (CCP), the program that allows high school students to take college courses free of charge. The session will present data supporting three main points: 1) CCP course taking has positive impacts on students’ postsecondary and workforce outcomes; 2) Different populations of students participate in CCP at different rates; and 3) There are strategies districts can use to expand access and increase success.

Career and Technical Education Expansion Through Innovative Partnerships

The Montgomery County Schools Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs have grown significantly in recent years, providing innovative, relevant, and equitable opportunities for all students. Through strategic planning and intentional partnerships, CTE has become a cornerstone of the district’s vision for college and career readiness. Their collaboration with Montgomery Community College has greatly expanded access to CTE programming through the Career & College Promise (CCP) program. These opportunities allow high school students to earn college credit and obtain industry-recognized credentials while still in high school.

Centralized Data, Stronger Schools, Brighter Futures

Improving student outcomes requires more than collecting data—it requires transforming data into actionable insights that inform instruction and strengthen accountability. This session will highlight how our district developed a centralized Data Hub designed to integrate key state and local data sources, including assessment results, district benchmark results, EVAAS projections, growth metrics, attendance, and behavior trends. By consolidating information into a single, user-friendly platform, the Data Hub provides leaders, teachers, and staff with timely access to the data that matters most for meeting state accountability standards and advancing continuous improvement. Attend this session to learn how schools and the district achieved success—not through quick fixes or one-size-fits-all programs, but through deliberate changes in culture, relationships, practices, and data-driven decision-making.

Charting the Future: Building AI Literacy for Students, Educators, and Communities

Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept—it’s shaping classrooms, careers, and communities right now. School board members and superintendents play a critical role in setting the vision for how students and educators engage with AI, yet many are still navigating what “AI literacy” really means for policy and practice. This session will cut through the noise to offer clear, practical guidance on what leaders need to know, from curriculum integration to responsible use policies. Participants will leave with frameworks and examples that help them lead informed, future-focused conversations in their districts.

Computer Science Graduation Requirement: Not Just Another Checkbox

The new Computer Science high school graduation requirement is now a reality for NC schools, and districts are challenged to provide highly-qualified staff for every student. This session will shift the focus from this logistical hurdle to the requirement’s substantial value as a critical workforce development strategy. We’ll explore why districts should embrace this as an opportunity to integrate impactful computer science learning that extends well beyond a single high school course.

Cooperative Purchasing: What Board Members and School Districts Should Know

School districts across the country are turning to cooperative procurement for greater value to help reduce administrative costs and leverage the benefits of economies of scale. Cooperatives provide a wide variety of benefits to public procurement offering solutions for their purchasing needs. “Leading national and regional cooperatives are working to address these challenges through educational materials, expanded outreach to increase member participation being an additional procurement resource to the bidding process. The BuyBoard National Cooperative is a free, governmental based cooperative that serves municipalities, counties, universities, public schools, and local government agencies. Because the competitive procurement process has been completed, this help assist members compliance with local and state procurement requirements.

Districtwide Protocols: Building Consistency in Operations and Oversight

School systems often face challenges when procedures differ across schools—whether in finance, investigations, background checks, or facilities management. Inconsistent practices create risks for equity, compliance, efficiency, and community trust. This session will provide district leaders and board members with a framework for developing clear, consistent protocols that support accountability and fairness across all schools. Participants will engage with case studies, participate in guided discussions, and complete a hands-on mapping exercise. Practical tools such as a protocol template, gap-analysis worksheet, and rollout strategies will be shared so leaders leave with concrete next steps for strengthening consistency and confidence in district operations.

Emergency Response Planning 

Having a clear plan together before a loss or disaster happens is key to getting students back to school quickly and safely. Taking time to plan will not only save you time in the event of a loss but also will save you money. Learn about this critical planning process from an industry leader in emergency response planning.

Empowering Safe Educational Environments: The Transformative Impact of Principal Self-Care and Student Belonging

This session bridges two critical, research-based components often overlooked in school safety planning: the well-being of school principals and the sense of belonging experienced by students. Drawing on two qualitative studies in North Carolina schools, this session will examine how the personal, psychological, and professional well-being of school principals, alongside students’ sense of belonging, directly contribute to a safe, stable, and equitable school climate, which in turn impacts student achievement.

Every Story Counts: Unlocking the Power of Your PIO

Stories connect families, inspire staff, and shape community perception—but only when shared strategically. A PIO does far more than post or issue press releases; they are partners in every key decision, guiding initiatives, anticipating reactions, and turning everyday moments into compelling stories. What looks like campaigns, videos, or posts is actually the engine that builds trust, attracts families, retains staff, and strengthens your district’s reputation. Learn how boards and superintendents can harness the full power of communications to drive engagement, trust, and long-term success.

Focused and Effective: How Strategic Choices Drive Results

In today’s challenging funding climate, school systems must find innovative ways to sustain and improve student outcomes. This session will highlight how Orange County Schools has prioritized wise resource use through program evaluation, maximized impact by leveraging curriculum tools, and empowered students through goal-setting and explicit instruction. Participants will learn practical strategies for aligning limited resources with instructional priorities to ensure continued growth and success for all students.

From High School to Hired: How Asheboro City Schools is Growing and Shaping Future and Beginning Teachers 

Asheboro City Schools is cultivating the next generation of educators through a unique teacher pipeline initiative, TEACH (Tomorrow’s Educators Advancement to College through High School). In partnership with Randolph Community College and UNC-Greensboro, TEACH equips high school students with early experience, professional connections, and preparation that leads to less debt and greater readiness for the classroom. Once hired, our Beginning Teacher Support Program provides a dynamic three-year induction, guiding educators in classroom management, curriculum and instruction, and professionalism. This session will highlight how ACS is growing, supporting, and sustaining a strong teaching force through innovative, personalized pathways from high school to career.

From Chalkboards to Courtrooms: A Guide to the American Legal System for School Boards

This presentation provides a broad overview of the American Legal System as it relates to the work of board members and education law. It will discuss the various duties of the three branches of government, the hierarchy of the court system, and the importance of this knowledge for board members.

From Rookie to Results: What Effective Board Members Do Differently

Learn from a group of school board members from across North Carolina who have successfully set direction, achieved results, and used their elected voice to advocate where it counts—in the boardroom, the community, and the legislature. This session will cover the essentials of effective leadership, including clarifying roles, leveraging influence rather than chasing power, and making committees the engine of governance. Also explore strategic planning with measurable goals, practical ways to wield your individual influence, and how to communicate with the public so your voice shapes the conversation. NCCCSBM members represent more than a dozen school boards across the state.

If I Ran the Zoo: Strategies for Building Healthy, Happy, Resiliency-Focused Schools and Classrooms

Participants in this session can expect to learn practical, immediately implementable strategies for building healthy, happy, resiliency-focused school and classroom communities. Presenters will share 8-10 strategies for adults and students in a school building to learn in a safe, regulated, values-driven and calm environment that is grounded in brain science, mutual respect and love. Participants will leave this session with an understanding of their own primary values, ideas for teaching brain science to kids, and a classroom problems-solving structure that nurtures community.

Implementing the NC 2025–2030 Strategic Plan: Board’s Role in Driving Excellence

School boards play a pivotal role in ensuring North Carolina’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan translates into meaningful outcomes for students. This session will show how facilities and infrastructure planning—when aligned with academic and community priorities—supports student success. Participants will also explore practical ways to move from planning to action in capital improvement projects and understand how delivery methods such as Design-Build can enhance efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and long-term value.

School Nutrition and the Impact of New USDA Regulations on Self-Operated and Outsourced Districts

The USDA has announced significant changes to sodium and added sugar standards, beginning in 2025. School districts should begin preparations now, as current menu items will no longer meet USDA compliance. To stay compliant and maintain student participation, school districts should begin evaluating new products and menu items. This involves identifying new ingredients, collaborating with key manufacturers and local suppliers, developing and testing new items to assess acceptability, and gradually introducing them into menu cycles to monitor and adjust as needed. As these new regulations are introduced, this session is designed to walk through the regulation’s impact on school districts and ways to introduce new products without disrupting student participation and engagement. With a goal of maintaining compliance to USDA standards, this session encourages questions to industry experts on menu development, design, and variety to keep up with changing student tastes.

Legislative Engagement in Research Is a THING in NC

This session will provide an overview of the recently created Office of Learning Research (OLR) within the NC Collaboratory and its mission to strengthen K–12 education in the State through research-driven insights. Presenters will highlight how the NC Collaboratory, supported with funding from the NC General Assembly, identifies critical policy priorities by engaging with key policy stakeholders, supports a network of NC-based researchers, and administers grants for studies that aim to directly inform education policy and practice. The partnership between the NC Collaboratory and the NC General Assembly is unique and provides an interesting model other education policy leaders would be interested to know more about. This interactive session will ask participants to help the NC Collaboratory team in determining the most pressing policy problems facing NC’s K12 education system in order to inform future research funding.

Lincoln County Health Academy: An Innovative Partnership

The Lincoln County Health Academy represents an achievement as the first in North Carolina to provide a Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) program to high school students. This innovative initiative was made possible through a strategic collaboration among Lincoln County Schools, Gaston College, Atrium Lincoln, and Rotary Rooted student scholarships. During this session, participants will gain insight into the development and implementation of the LPN program, including the marketing approaches employed to engage high school students with the Health Academy and the organization’s strategic vision for future expansion. Furthermore, attendees will acquire the knowledge and framework necessary to establish a Health Academy partnership within their respective school districts.

Meet and Confer: Toward Worker Input, Collaboration, and District Stability

Both Asheville City Schools and Durham Public Schools have formalized meet and confer processes for their respective districts beginning in the 2025-2026 school year. In this session, board members and education worker association leaders will describe meet and confer, a process for incorporating employees’ collective experiences and priorities into decision making regarding compensation, working conditions, and more. We will share the processes for establishing meet and confer in our respective districts. This session will provide insights into why meet and confer is a “win-win” strategy for district communities, and, most importantly, students. Any viewpoints expressed in this presentation are those of the individual presenters.

Micro-Credentials: Advancing Teacher Expertise and Student Success

What if every teacher in North Carolina could pursue professional learning that was flexible, affordable, and directly tied to student learning outcomes? For the last four years, the Empowering Teacher Learning Project at Appalachian State University has studied micro-credentials as a means of supporting teacher-directed professional learning and improving teacher classroom practices and student outcomes. As part of this work, the team has developed a framework for implementing a competency-based, actionable PD model at the school and district level. The project’s next phase includes the exploration of how self-directed learning can be leveraged to improve instructional quality and student achievement, including during remote learning. This session will offer an overview of both micro-credentials and self-directed learning and share teacher perspectives on how these tools can be used to improve teacher professional development and student learning outcomes.

Mission in Common: School Districts as Hubs for Multi-Sector Collaboration

Complex systems, limited resources, and fragmented services often leave families struggling to access the help they need. This session will explore how school districts can lead the way as hubs for multi-sector collaboration that support families. Attendees will learn how districts can form collectives to engage sectors such as public health, social services, community based organizations and other sectors to work together more efficiently and proactively. Learn practical strategies for initiating cross-sector partnerships, building stronger connections, and fostering trust between schools and communities while hearing real narratives from families and professionals across North Carolina.

More for Members

SECU is a not-for-profit financial cooperative helping members build brighter financial futures and strengthening the communities we serve. This session provides an overview of our products and services and insight into the Credit Union difference and the positive impact SECU is making every day. Come learn how to better support your district by partnering with SECU.

Moving North Carolina Students Forward

The N.C. Education Lottery raises more than $1 billion a year for public education. Where does the money go? It’s the information you want to know at budget time or when the need for a school bond issue gets debated. The legislature directs the money to school construction, for support staff and transportation in our schools, for NC Pre-K, and for the new college scholarship Next NC. The $1 billion is only a portion of the local, state, and federal funds supporting education. That doesn’t mean that the funds aren’t making a difference, helping to move our students forward. Come hear and see stories how.

NCHSAA Updates

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association (NCHSAA) will provide information relative to rule changes. An update on the current alignment of schools and information regarding sports and championships will also be shared.

Not Your Dad’s CTE Program: Building Community Through Dare County Schools’ Innovative Partnerships with Local Industry and Government

Dare County Schools has developed a unique, innovative model for CTE that not only prepares students for success after graduation, but also strengthens the local economy by preserving the unique cultural heritage of our coastal community. The session will highlight partnerships, collaborations that create hands-on, career-focused learning experiences that lead directly to employment, entrepreneurship, military service and advanced educational opportunities. A session not to be missed!

Old Risks, New Technology: AI & Schools

In the Acceleration Age, K-12 students will learn how to use new and emerging technology to be competitive in the workforce. As schools begin to teach students about the ethical and productive use of artificial intelligence, it is important for board members and administrators to understand the risks of this particular form of technology. Learn more about how the use of AI can impact existing areas of risk (e.g. confidentiality, academic integrity, safety, and bullying) and how administrators and school boards can help to mitigate these risks.

One Team, One Goal: Delivering Schools through Design-Build

North Carolina school districts face growing pressure to deliver new and replacement schools faster, within tight budgets, and in alignment with NC DPI standards. This session brings together the architect, the design-builder, and the school client to share firsthand experiences with the Design/Build delivery method. Presenters will highlight how Design/Build differs from traditional approaches, the benefits of a unified team and single contract, and how collaboration leads to cost certainty, innovation, and accountability. Through real project insights, attendees will learn how this delivery method can reduce disputes, accelerate schedules, and ultimately provide high-quality learning environments for students.

Public Schools: The True Superpower of Our Community

Public schools are more than classrooms—they’re the heart of our communities and a launchpad for student success. In today’s competitive landscape, families have choices, and public education must showcase its unique ‘superpowers’ that set us apart. This session explores how districts can create innovative programs—like career and technical pathways, early college, dual language programs, STEAM academies, and specialized extracurriculars—that inspire students and attract families. We’ll also cover marketing and storytelling strategies to ensure these programs don’t remain “hidden powers.” By combining program innovation with intentional marketing, public schools can reclaim their position as the strongest force for opportunity, equity, and community pride. Together, we’ll learn how to tap into the true superpower of public schools—the ability to change lives and shape the future.

Reimagining the Boardroom: Transforming Governance, Growth, and Community Impact

This high-energy, insight-driven session invites superintendents, school board members, and education leaders to reimagine what effective leadership looks like in today’s evolving educational landscape. As shifting demographics, accountability demands, and community expectations reshape public education, this presentation will challenge participants to move from compliance-focused governance to culture-shaping leadership. Through Dream Builders Communication, Inc. signature Five-Star Approach, attendees will explore strategies to strengthen governance agility, build financial confidence, and reignite community trust. Participants will leave equipped with actionable tools to align board priorities with district performance and foster a resilient, high-performing culture.

Religious Opt-Outs After Mahmoud v. Taylor

In this session, we will discuss a case decided this summer by the U.S. Supreme Court, Mahmoud v. Taylor, and its potential to drastically affect public schools’ operations. We will look at the rights parents have to opt their children out of instruction that conflicts with the parent’s sincerely held religious beliefs, what religious-based opt-out rights exist under state law, and what questions remain regarding how far those rights extend. Finally, the presentation will offer tips for districts and schools to plan for and accommodate opt-out requests.

Return on Partnerships: How Collaboration Maximizes Outcomes and Reduces Cost in Education

Explore how effective collaboration among public, private, and nonprofit partners has advanced both academic excellence and operational efficiency in public education. This session examines how the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School Board established clear goals and guardrails to elevate student outcomes while leveraging cross-sector expertise, partnerships, and shared resources to drive systemic improvement. Key initiatives highlighted include the Educator Housing Initiative, social-emotional learning and whole-being readiness, student attendance and engagement, and career and technical education pathways. Together, these efforts demonstrate how intentional collaboration can address both the learning and living conditions that shape student success. Attendees will gain insight into sustainable partnership models that strengthen the intersections of student achievement, access, and opportunity—while promoting fiscal stewardship and long-term community investment.

School Meals for All NC

School Meals for All NC is a statewide coalition working to ensure that every student in North Carolina has access to breakfast and lunch at school at no cost to families. This session will share the vision, strategies, and progress of the movement in North Carolina and highlight what school meals for all means for student learning, health, and district-level impacts. Participants will hear about lessons learned, while also exploring opportunities for collaboration and advocacy. Attendees will leave with concrete ways to support the growing momentum for school meals for all in their communities.

School Threat Assessment Teams: Best Practices & Legal Updates

This session will review the school safety requirements every board member should be aware of, as well as best practices for threat assessments for school systems.  We’ll also review recent case law and statutory developments in the area of threat assessments and school violence.

Sexual Harassment Claims by Students: Taking Cues from the Courtroom to Navigate Title IX Terrain

This session will explore recent case law to identify action steps for school systems to avoid, and if necessary, defend against, Title IX claims arising from students’ alleged sexual harassment. By taking these cues from the courtroom, Board members can foster safe school communities where sexual harassment claims are addressed promptly and fairly and make informed assessments of threatened Title IX claims should they arise.

Strategic Planning & Superintendent Evaluation: Better Than Chocolate & Peanut Butter!

What do strategic plans and superintendent evaluations have in common with your favorite peanut butter cup? When combined with intention, alignment, and purpose—they create something truly irresistible. In this “Coffee Talk” session, we’ll explore how a well-crafted district strategic plan, when blended with clearly defined superintendent performance expectations, becomes a powerful evaluation instrument that drives real progress for students and staff. Participants will discover how this pairing fosters clarity, accountability, and continuous improvement, while reinforcing board-superintendent teamwork. Whether you’re just starting your strategic planning journey or looking to revamp your superintendent evaluation process, this session offers the perfect recipe for measurable impact and leadership success. Come for the insights—stay for the peanut butter cups!

Strengthen Your Teacher Pipeline with Advanced Teaching Roles

Join this session to explore North Carolina’s Advanced Teaching Roles program, including policy guidelines, funding opportunities, and real-world impact. Hear firsthand from participating districts how the program is transforming classrooms, empowering teachers, and boosting student success.

Teacher Leadership: A Catalyst for Sustainable School Improvement

The Teacher Leadership Institute (TLI) equips educators to lead change from within, driving improvements in student outcomes, school culture, and instructional practice. Participants design and implement strategic initiatives aligned with district goals, using data and stakeholder input to guide their work. Through interactive sessions, collaborative planning, and real-time feedback, educators engage deeply with peers and facilitators to refine their leadership practice. By investing in teacher leadership, school boards strengthen retention, improve student outcomes, and foster a culture of shared responsibility. Participants in this session will explore real examples from the inaugural Teacher Leadership Institute (TLI), analyze the structure and outcomes of teacher-led initiatives, and consider implications for district strategy and board-level support. Come and learn about the inaugural TLI and discover how it’s building a pipeline of teacher leaders who are ready to shape system-level change.

The Micro School at ECPPS: A Small School with a Mighty Impact on Learning in Our District

The evolution of the Micro School in Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Public Schools has traveled an interesting journey from inception to creation. Come and examine the MIGHTY impact this small school of 25 students is having in the community and on the trajectory of learning in their district. The students of Elizabeth City-Pasquotank’s Micro School don’t just learn about concepts—they put them into action!

The Responsible Algorithm: Navigating AI and Data Privacy in K-12

This session will share how the NCTIES can assist district leadership and school boards in creating a collaborative AI policy framework. Participants will analyze the key data privacy risks associated with both generative and embedded AI tools, focusing specifically on algorithmic bias and the necessity of transparent communication with parents and the community. The session provides actionable steps for establishing a collaborative AI Policy Framework, updating Acceptable Use Policies, and implementing essential technical controls such as Multi-Factor Authentication, Single Sign On, and Data Loss Prevention. Attendees will leave with a strategic readiness checklist to ensure their district’s AI adoption is ethical, sustainable, and fundamentally grounded in the protection of student and staff data.

The Secret Sauce for Student Success

Clubs and student organizations are often called ‘extra’ but in reality, co-curricular activities provide a level of personal responsibility, critical thinking, and can make the school experience complete. In this session, NCASC will highlight the research-backed benefits of student activities and explore training opportunities for student leaders, especially in student council. Also, this session will address the common misconception that all adults instinctively know how to manage student organizations and share practical resources to help advisors lead more effectively and efficiently.

Transforming Literacy Outcomes through Comprehensive Reform

To ensure that all students develop as strong readers, districts must rethink multiple variables to ensure results. In this session, hear from the CAO of New York City Public Schools on how NYC Reads led to the nation’s largest gains in literacy outcomes by rethinking curriculum, teacher preparation, and community support. Then, learn how districts across NC are using a similar approach to re-evaluate their literacy system and build it back from the bottom up using proven approaches and resources.

Understanding What Draws Beginning Educators to Teach in Rural Settings

This session presents findings from a study of more than 100 beginning teachers (years 1–3) in Eastern North Carolina, including those from both traditional and alternative preparation pathways. Using Q-Sort methodology, the study explored why these teachers chose to work in rural school districts. The session will highlight key results along with limitations of the study and implications for recruiting beginning teachers in rural areas.

What the All Blacks Rugby Team Teaches Us About the Business of Life

The New Zealand All Blacks Rugby Team offers valuable lessons in leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. Their success and worldwide recognition is built on values such as humility, excellence, and putting collective purpose over individual gain. Explore key takeaways like the principle that “better people make better All Blacks” and the balance of pride and humility—values that are exemplified by their consistent high performance and attention to even the smallest task.

Why and How to Overcome Obstacles to Cell Phone Policies

Come learn how “bell-to-bell” policies differ in outcomes from “instructional time only” policies. Find out how two NC districts have overcome their own obstacles to “bell-to-bell” policies.

Year One of the Superintendency with Alexander County Schools: Navigating District Rebranding While Dodging Bankruptcy

Join us for a candid look at the challenges and strategic decisions faced during the inaugural year of superintendency of Dr. Bill Griffin, his Executive Cabinet, and the Alexander County Schools’ Board of Education. This session explores the delicate balance of leading transformational change while managing critical financial instability due to loss of student enrollment. This presentation should be ideal for aspiring and current superintendents, district leaders, board members, and anyone interested in understanding the realities of educational leadership during challenging transitions. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for managing multiple high-stakes initiatives while keeping design and alignment of the district’s mission and vision at the forefront.