An early morning, 5-kilometer guided walk/run will take place Thursday, Feb. 12, marking the day’s first scheduled event of the 2026 AASA National Conference on Education in Nashville.

This year’s event, titled Together We Stride, sets off at 6 a.m. outside the Music City Center, at the corner of Rep. John Lewis Way and Demonbreun, facing Bridgestone Arena and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

 “On the heels of IDEA turning 50, this year’s fitness event is focused on inclusion, and we welcome runners and walkers of all shapes, sizes and paces to join,” race organizer Noelle Ellerson-Ng said.

The run’s official registration already has hit its maximum at 200, though others are welcome to join in.

Those who registered can pick up their race packets containing a run/walk bib anytime between 2 and 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11, at the AASA Information Kiosk located in Hall AB on Level 3 of the Music City Center. (If unable to pick up your race items on Wednesday, you'll be able to check in at the starting location at 5:30 a.m. on race morning.)

The fitness event is hosted in coordination with Micah’s Miles, a non-profit focused on helping build inclusive communities where everyone is welcomed for the unique value and perspective they bring.

Classroom Champions is also supporting this year’s fun/run walk. “As our event overlaps with the 2026 Winter Olympics, we are thrilled that Classroom Champions has invited Canadian Paralympian Nate Tucker to lead our Together We Stride Run/Walk,” Ellerson-Ng said.