My guiding philosophy for professional development is that gaining even a single new idea constitutes a successful experience. Last month, I attended United: The National Conference on School Leadership in Seattle. I was profoundly impressed by the insights presented. Rather than just one idea, I returned with 21 pages of innovative strategies to implement at my school this year, spanning reflections on maintaining a strong sense of purpose, creative concepts for murals, and innovative applications of AI in education. Interested in learning more? Here are just a few of my favorites from the conference.
1. Voices From the Field
Co-facilitating NASSP’s School Leaders of Color Network has been one of the most enriching experiences of my career. Partnering with Jerry Anderson, my network co-facilitator who I now consider not only a trusted colleague but also a good friend, has deepened my understanding of effective school leadership. Her insightful contributions have sparked collaborative conversations and collective creativity within our network, and her strategies for celebrating student success have been invaluable to my own school community. The opportunity to engage with fellow network facilitators at the conference was particularly meaningful, offering a dynamic exchange of ideas to strengthen the structure and impact of the network. One change we’re excited to implement is alternating meeting times—6:00 p.m. on even-numbered months and 7:00 p.m. on odd-numbered months—to increase accessibility and participation. The conference affirmed that professional learning communities need not be limited to a single building; they can thrive across schools, districts, and even state lines.
2. Introducing former U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King Jr.
I had the distinct honor of co-introducing a powerful session featuring NASSP Immediate Past President Raquel Martinez and former U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King Jr. Both distinguished leaders of color shared deeply personal and inspiring journeys that exemplify resilience and purpose. Martinez spoke of her upbringing—working alongside her parents in the fields under the blazing sun—and how that foundation shaped her rise to become the first NASSP President of Hispanic descent. King, the author of Teacher By Teacher: The People Who Change Our Lives, reflected on a childhood marked by profound loss, the revelation of his grandfather’s enslavement, and the emotional experience of visiting the very cabin where his ancestor once lived. As he poignantly stated, “My family went from the cabin to the (Obama) Cabinet.” Their stories lit a path for all in attendance, reminding us of the vital importance of representation—ensuring that every student sees leaders of color who reflect their potential and affirm their worth.
3. Messages That Moved Me
Conference presentations were outstanding. Keynote speakers like Daymond John, an American businessman, investor, and TV personality, and Professor Gholdy Muhammad, the author of Unearthing Joy: A Guide to Culturally and Historically Responsive Teaching and Learning, inspired reflection and hope through their powerful messages. John’s sharp insights on setting personal goals and refusing to be defined by others’ limitations encouraged attendees to lead with purpose and perseverance. Muhammad reminded us of the moral responsibility we carry as educators to help students uncover their many gifts and talents—an essential principle for transformative leadership.
4. Reflections on Resiliency
I firmly believe that meaningful relationships are built on reciprocity—true connection requires both giving and receiving. This belief is one of the reasons I find great value in presenting at conferences like UNITED. I was honored to co-present on the School Leaders of Color Network and explore how leaders of color can cultivate resilient lifestyles to sustain the vital and demanding work of school leadership. As is often the case with meaningful professional learning experiences, I gained as much from the preparation and participant dialogue as I hope others gained from the session itself.
5. The Innovation Exchange
A highlight of attending the conference was exploring the diverse and dynamic range of vendors. The exhibit hall was filled with innovative ideas, practical solutions, and cutting-edge tools designed to support school leaders in our ongoing work. Impressively, every vendor who promised to follow up did so within a week of the conference’s conclusion, demonstrating their commitment to partnership and service. For school leaders looking to move from good to great, engaging with conference vendors is an invaluable way to stay informed about the latest strategies and innovations shaping education nationwide.
