Why NCE Matters

The National Conference on Education (NCE) is a powerful experience. This will be my 21st year as a Superintendent in Maine and my fifth time attending NCE, and I truly cannot wait to get to Nashville.

What makes NCE so powerful? The people! The AASA staff who support every detail. The practitioners who generously share their expertise. The vendors who bring solutions. And, most importantly, the superintendents and district leaders from across the country who arrive with open minds, full hearts, and a shared commitment to strengthening public education and fulfilling our promise to children and families.

A Meaningful Year

This year is especially meaningful for me as one of four finalists for the 2026 Superintendent of the Year award. After going through the Blue Ribbon Interview process together, I can honestly say there is no wrong choice among the finalists. Roosevelt, Demetrus, and Sonja are extraordinary leaders, and I am grateful for the friendships formed through this experience.

Making the Most of NCE

To make NCE your most rewarding experience:

• Go in with purpose. Identify a few leadership priorities and choose sessions through that lens.
• Look beyond the clinics. Some of the richest learning happens in conversations, networking events, and informal spaces.
• Balance vision and practice. Pair big-picture inspiration with take-home strategies.
• Engage and reflect. Ask questions, connect with new colleagues, and take time to consider what you will bring back to serve your students, staff, and community.

During the conference, I will be sharing daily reflections to process my learning and, I hope, spark yours as well. There is truly nothing like NCE—the learning, the energy, the connection, and the reminder that we are part of something bigger. I look forward to seeing many of you in Nashville as we come together to learn, lead, and renew our shared commitment to the work we love.