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Featured Speakers | Hill Visits | Conference Schedule | Conference Rates | Hotel and Travel | Call for Presenters | Sessions
Join us at the 2026 National Schools to Watch Conference, a one-of-a-kind event bringing together passionate middle-level educators from across the nation. This conference is rooted in the Schools to Watch (STW) model, showcasing specific practices and programs that are enhancing student learning and development.
With inspiring keynote speakers, hands-on sessions, and peer-led learning opportunities, this event is designed to foster growth, connections, and inspiration. We invite you to be part of this unique journey of professional development and celebration!
Featured Speakers
Jimmy Casas
June 25
Jorge Valenzuela
June 26
Joelle Hood
June 27
Hill Visits
DIY Guide
Advocacy is a critical component of education policy and practice, and we want to help you make your voice heard on Capitol Hill. With our DIY Visit Guide, you can schedule and prepare for a meeting with your Senator or Representative during the National Schools to Watch Conference. Download it now and get ready to make an impact.
Conference Schedule
Wednesday, June 24
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Conference Registration 4:00 - 7:00 pm
Thursday, June 25
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Conference Registration/Coffee: 7:30 am
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General Session/Keynote: 8:30 - 10:30 am
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State Meet-ups: 10:45 - 11:30 am
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Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
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Session 1: 1:00 - 1:45 pm
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Session 2: 2:00 - 2:45 pm
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STW Awards - New Schools: 3:30 - 5:00 pm
Friday, June 26
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Conference Registration/Coffee: 7:30 am
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General Session/Keynote: 8:30 - 10:30 am
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Session 3: 10:45 - 11:30 am
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Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
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Session 4: 1:00 - 1:45 pm
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Session 5: 2:00 - 2:45 pm
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STW Awards
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Redesignation Level 2-3: 3:30 - 4:15 pm
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Redesignation Level 1, 4-5: 4:30 - 6:00 pm
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Saturday, June 27
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Continental Breakfast: 8:30 am
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General Session/Keynote: 9:00 - 11:30 am
Schedule is subject to change.
SCHOOLS TO WATCH
AWARD CELEBRATIONS
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Bring your team and celebrate your success!
Early Bird
Register before March 31, 2026
Schools to Watch: $469 per person
Non-STW: $489 per person
Standard Rate
Register between
April 1, 2026 and May 18, 2026
Schools to Watch: $519 per person
Non-STW: $539 per person
Don't Be Late!
Register between
May 19, 2026 and the day of the event
Schools to Watch: $569 per person
Non-STW: $589 per person
Want to attend for FREE?
Volunteer opportunities filled quickly, and we are now at capacity.
Thank you for the overwhelming interest and enthusiasm.
EVENT LOCATION
All activities take place at:​
Crystal Gateway Marriott
(not Crystal City)
1700 Richmond Hwy.
Arlington, VA 22202
​
Special Room Rate: $275 plus taxes & fees
CLOSEST AIRPORT
​
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
(DCA)​
2401 Smith Blvd.
Arlington, VA 22202
​
1 mile to Crystal Gateway Marriott with FREE shuttle every 30 minutes (during certain hours)
The Marriott will likely sell out at the conference rate.
You may call the hotel to check on availability at the standard rate: 703-920-3230
There may be rooms available at nearby hotels. We recommend using Expedia or something similar. Here is a list of some local hotels:
​
The Westin Crystal City Reagan National Airport: 703-486-1111
Hampton Inn & Suites Arlington Crystal City: 703-418-8181
Hilton Garden Inn Reagan National Airport: 703-892-1050
Embassy Suites by Hilton Crystal City National Airport: 703-979-9799
Crowne Plaza Crystal City-Washington, D.C. by IHG: 703-416-1600
Schedule is subject to change