Starting the Day with Connection
The day began with a first-of-its-kind gathering of the NCE conference bloggers. It was great to connect with Kelly, Michelle, and Bill after following your reflections throughout the week. One of the many strengths of NCE is learning not just through formal sessions, but through the voices and experiences of colleagues across the country. Your posts have enriched this experience for all of us.
Leadership and Voice at the General Session
Friday’s general session is always a highlight, and this year was no exception. The fireside chat with the AASA President-Elect candidates offered an authentic look at their leadership journeys and vision for the organization. Moments like this remind us that leadership is both deeply personal and profoundly collective. Both candidates bring strong perspectives, and I encourage all members to participate in the voting process. Ballots are in your emails now! Don't delay!
Reconnecting and Learning Together
Next, I spent time in the vendor hall—an experience I intentionally spread over two days each year. While it’s valuable to learn about new tools and resources, it’s just as meaningful to reconnect with colleagues and friends from across the country. I often spend just as much time hugging, handshaking, and catching up with old friends I randomly meet while walking around as I do speaking with the vendors themselves. Those unexpected reunions, shared laughter, and meaningful conversations are energizing and remind us that we are not alone in this work.
Lunch with my Maine colleagues reinforced that point. Seeing friends sporting newly acquired cowboy hats and sharing reflections from their learning sessions brought both joy and perspective. These relationships sustain us and help combat the isolation that can sometimes come with leadership.
Ideas to Bring Home
The afternoon clinics provided valuable learning, including the importance of culture and climate in recruitment and retention, lessons learned from districts integrating AI, and updates on federal issues impacting public education. Each session provided insights I will bring back to Gorham to help strengthen our work.
Why NCE Matters
As I wrap up this year's conference due to an early flight home tomorrow, I want to reflect on a question I am often asked: What is the value of attending the National Conference on Education? As the superintendent of a small, rural district, I can say the answer is simple: NCE strengthens our ability to lead. It gives us the opportunity to step back from daily demands, learn from others, and reconnect with the larger purpose of public education.
Most importantly, NCE allows us to return home better prepared to serve our students and communities. The ideas, relationships, and renewed sense of purpose gained here directly impact the decisions we make and the opportunities we create for those we serve. That is why NCE matters to me, and I am very sure I am not alone! Enjoy what remains of the conference, everyone, and we'll see you again next year in Atlanta!