If Friday is even half as impactful as Thursday, we are all in for something special.

Yesterday was filled with learning, connection, and celebration alongside talented superintendents from across the nation. From the first clinic of the morning to the final steps walking Broadway last night, the National Conference on Education continues to energize and inspire. Being surrounded by leaders who share a common purpose—strengthening public education for students and communities—is both humbling and motivating.

The Importance of Telling Our Story

One of my most important takeaways came from conversations with colleagues in states where school choice and voucher programs are expanding rapidly. While Maine has not yet experienced this shift at scale, it reinforces the importance of how we communicate and engage with families.

We were challenged to view our work through a customer service lens and to examine how accessible our systems are. One presenter encouraged us to visit our own district websites and attempt to “enroll” as a new family. I did—and quickly realized there is work to do. What should have been simple was anything but. It was a powerful reminder that how we present ourselves matters. When we make it easy for families to connect with us, we strengthen trust and reaffirm the value of public education.

Celebrating Leadership

Yesterday also marked the first General Session and the celebration of Roosevelt Nivens as the 2026 National Superintendent of the Year. Having had the privilege of getting to know Roosevelt as a fellow finalist, I can say this honor is well deserved. His leadership, humility, and deep commitment to students were evident throughout the process, and his acceptance speech reflected a leader with a heart the size of the state he serves. Our profession is stronger because of leaders like him.

Looking Ahead with Hope

Today brings more opportunities to learn, particularly around artificial intelligence in education, as well as time to reflect with colleagues and celebrate David Law’s installation as AASA President. Moments like these remind me that public education continues to evolve, guided by thoughtful and dedicated leaders.

If there is one thing that stands out most from this conference, it is the collective commitment to students and to one another. Across the country, educators are embracing challenges, sharing ideas, and working together to improve our schools. That spirit of collaboration gives me great confidence. The future of public education is bright—not because it will be easy, but because of the extraordinary people committed to doing the work.

(Heather Perry is a blogger for Conference Daily Online and superintendent in Gorham, Maine.)

Read more of Heather Perry's conference blogging here.