2025 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2023 Annual Conference Washington D.C. 2021 Virtual Celebrations Zoom 2018 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2016 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2014 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2012 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2024 Annual Conference Washington D.C. 2022 Annual Conference Washington D.C. 2019 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2017 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2015 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2013 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. 2011 Annual Conference Washington, D.C. Past Events Check out our upcoming events View

Forum Board Cathy Tomon President Read Bio Martinrex Kedziora Past President Read Bio Ran Barnes Middle Grades Practitioner Read Bio David McDonald Treasurer Read Bio Leti Menchaca Advocacy Chair Read Bio Scott Steele STW State Director Read Bio David Vroman Fidelity Committee Chair Read Bio Jonathan Rohloff Superintendent Read Bio Darryl Conner Middle-Grades Principal Read Bio John Dowd Business Partner Read Bio Lekia Jones Member-at-Large Read Bio Mychael Willon Member-At-Large Read Bio Winton Buddington Member-At-Large Read Bio Cathy Perry Executive Director Read Bio

Attend the National Schools to Watch conference in June, in Washington D.C. Conference Schedule | Conference Rates | Volunteer | Hotel Information | Hill Visits | Sessions | Sponsor/Exhibit | FAQ Join us at the 2025 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! Register Today! Featured Speakers Rochelle Wilson With over a decade of experience as a middle school educator, Rochelle transitioned into a consultant, author, and nonprofit leader, driven by her passion for creating impactful learning environments. Her work empowers educators to foster spaces where students thrive, feel heard, and have a voice. In her keynote, From Educator to Changemaker: My Journey to Impacting the Next Generation , Rochelle will share her personal journey, innovative mentorship strategies, and insights on turning challenges into growth opportunities. Jonathan Alsheimer Jonathan is a dynamic middle school teacher, bestselling author, and international keynote speaker known for his electrifying energy and innovative approach. As the author of NEXT LEVEL TEACHING and School of Engagement —both Amazon #1 new releases—he’s inspired educators and students to break barriers and aim higher. Jonathan’s impact extends beyond the classroom with partnerships that empower students. From working with UFC fighters, celebrities, and brands to launching the national “A Rae of Hope” movement in over 15 states, his work transforms schools and communities. He’s also led anti-bullying campaigns and leadership initiatives, proving his motto: “Game-changing is not a cliché—it’s a way of life!” Dr. Martinrex Kedziora Color Me Creative and Call Me Brilliant What does it truly mean to make someone feel like they matter? In this heartfelt and thought-provoking session, Dr. Kedziora, National Forum Board President, shares his personal journey through a lifetime in education, highlighting how compassion, creativity, and connection can transform lives. "Color Me Creative and Call Me Brilliant" invites participants to reflect on the power of belonging and self-worth, especially for those who may not always feel seen or celebrated. More than a presentation, this is a call to action: to lead with heart, to see brilliance in every learner, and to understand that gratitude is more than a simple “thank you”—it’s a practice of acknowledgment and purpose. Conference Schedule Wednesday, June 25 Conference Registration 4:00 - 7:00 pm Thursday, June 26 Conference Registration / Coffee: 7:30 am Welcome / Parade of States / STW Awards Redesignation Level 6-7: 8:30 am Keynote: 9:30 - 10:30 am State Meet-ups: 10:45 - 11:30 am Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Session 1: 1:00 - 1:45 pm Session 2: 2:00 - 2:45 pm STW Awards - New Schools: 3:30 - 5:00 pm Friday, June 27 Conference Registration / Coffee: 8:30 am Keynote: 9:00 - 10:30 am Session 3: 10:45 - 11:30 am Lunch on your own: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Session 4: 1:00 - 1:45 pm Session 5: 2:00 - 2:45 pm STW Awards Redesignation Level 2-3: 3:30 - 4:15 pm Redesignation Level 1, 4-5: 4:30 - 6:00 pm Saturday, June 28 Continental Breakfast: 8:30 am Keynote: 9:00 - 11:00 am Schedule is subject to change. SCHOOLS TO WATCH AWARD CELEBRATIONS Bring your team, dress to the nines, and celebrate your success! STW Celebration Schedule Thursday, June 26 Redesignation Level 6-7: 8:30 am New Schools: 3:30 pm Friday, June 27 Redesignation Level 2-3: 3:30 pm Redesignation Level 1, 4-5: 4:30 pm Schedule is subject to change. Conference Sponsors Friday Keynote Speaker Sponsor nXu partners with schools and youth organizations through a flexible 6-part model focused on purpose, durable skills, and wellness. Our offerings align with the key steps schools follow when adopting new programs, ensuring seamless integration and impact. Table Sponsor Thriving YOUniversity empowers the extraordinary in individuals, schools, and organizations through experiential learning, professional development, keynotes, resources, and programs to sustain a positive culture. Table Sponsor eReflect is an educational technology company that is committed to promoting Digital Equity. We have developed Typesy, a comprehensive learning platform that is aligned with educational standards and focuses on essential skills such as typing, computer skills, literacy, and a transdisciplinary approach. With Typesy, we aim to provide a platform that empowers learners to acquire digital literacy and proficiency and to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed in the digital age. Photo Booth Sponsor Great Falls Travel , an educator-owned and operated travel company, specializes in customized educational tours for students. Our experienced team of educators designs itineraries aligned with educational goals, focusing on destinations with rich learning opportunities. We handle all trip details, prioritizing safety, engagement, and unique experiences. Our commitment to memorable, educational travel sets us apart. Table Sponsor These free, teacher-created, comprehensive, and ready-made lessons are designed to shape your students into the next generation of leaders. By integrating Medal of Honor Recipients’ and Citizen Honors Awardees' stories into engaging lessons, CDP empowers students to: Build strong character. Develop leadership skills. Become active citizens. Embrace the spirit of service. Become a Conference Sponsor Hill Visits DIY Guide is Available 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. Download Guide Early Bird Extended! Register before March 15, 2025 Schools to Watch: $449 per person Non-STW: $469 Standard Rate Register between March 15, 2025 and May 19, 2025 Schools to Watch: $499 per person Non-STW: $519 per person Don't Be Late! Register between May 20, 2025 and the day of the event Schools to Watch: $549 per person Non-STW: $569 per person Register Today! ALL ACTIVITIES TAKE PLACE AT: Crystal Gateway Marriott (not Crystal City) 1700 Richmond Hwy. Arlington, VA 22202 Special Room Rate: $269 pl us taxes & fees Make your hotel reservations online 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 Download Whova, the official conference app . Registered attendees can sign in using the email address used during registration. Schedule subject to change. Frequently asked questions Who should attend? ANYONE who is interested in learning from the best middle-level educators in the country. Why should I attend? There is not only one national conference created by middle level educators specifically designed for middle level educators ... but there is only ONE based on the Schools to Watch (STW) model! This one-of-a-kind event focuses on specific practices and programs that are enhancing student learning and development. The conference is organized around the following STW domains: Academic Excellence, Organizational Structures, Developmental Responsiveness, and Social Equity. What is Schools to Watch? Schools to Watch (STW) was designed by the National Forum. Criteria established by the Forum are used as the basis for the Schools to Watch Program, which focuses on school improvement efforts characterized by a continuous trajectory toward success. Get more information from your State Director (https://www.middlegradesforum.org/schools-to-watch)or contact us.(https://www.middlegradesforum.org/contact) What is included with registration? Two-and-a-half days of professional learning, STW award celebrations, keynote speakers, and one continental breakfast. What is the cancellation policy? ALL registrations are subject to the cancellation policy. Many conference-related fees are paid by the National Forum in advance, therefore, refunds will only be processed as follows: Prior to April 25, 2026, 15% fee; April 26, 2026 - May 25, 2026, 50% fee; after May 25, 2026, no refund. A colleague may substitute to avoid cancellation penalties. To make a substitution please email Kris (mailto:kris@leagueofschools.org)with the new information. Registrations are not refundable 30 days prior to the event for any reason, including without limitation, no-show due to illness, acts of God, travel-related problems, acts of terrorism, public health emergencies or alerts, loss of employment, and/or duplicate purchases. National Forum will provide registration refunds and options in the event National Forum fully cancels the event. Can I attend if I am not from a Schools to Watch? Yes! All are welcome. Do you have sponsor or exhibit opportunities? Yes! Our carefully crafted sponsorship opportunities (https://cvent.me/bAM4wE)offer prime visibility and engagement. This is your chance to align your brand with excellence in education and leave a lasting impact on the Schools to Watch network. Become a member today! Join Up