About The Program
The April National Superintendents Forum, centered around the theme “From the Superintendent’s Office to the Classroom: Creating and Sustaining Positive Momentum,” serves as a pivotal platform for public school superintendents to engage in robust discussions and collaborative dialogue. The forum will explore topics on the forefront of superintendents’ minds, as all sessions are led by superintendents. Attendees will delve into topics such as curriculum development, teacher professional development, and bridging the gap between administrative decisions and implementation at the classroom level. Through insightful keynotes, interactive workshops, and peer-to-peer networking, superintendents are given the opportunity to exchange ideas on how to effectively translate their vision into tangible improvements on every level of their school districts. The forum serves not only as a knowledge-sharing hub but also as a catalyst for forging a collective commitment to remember why they’re here in the first place: students.
Topics Of Discussion
Tips for New Superintendents on Developing a Positive Working Relationship with School Board Members
Developing Community Partnerships that Boost Student Achievement and Engagement
How are the Children? Purposeful Superintendent Leadership through Equity and Student Voice
What Can a Four Star Michelin Chef Teach Educators about Education?
Strategic Planning
Controlling the Narrative Through Consistency and Persistence
In a world inundated with information and diverse perspectives, the ability to control the narrative has become a crucial skill. “Controlling the Narrative Through Consistency and Persistence” is a presentation that explores the art and “science” behind shaping perceptions, influencing opinions, and guiding the discourse in various contexts. This presentation delves into the strategies and techniques employed by Superintendent Douglas Mentzer to assert control over the stories told about Trenton Public Schools.
The most effective strategy often involves a strong defense, a sentiment frequently echoed in sports commentary—’The best offense is a good defense.’ This saying emphasizes the importance of proactivity, responsibility, and control in navigating challenging situations. Over the past three years, Superintendents nationwide have confronted circumstances demanding precise, politically correct, and, to some extent, personalized responses tailored to special interest groups or local communities within the community.
Looking ahead, the present moment provides a prime opportunity to recognize that a robust defense, specifically controlling the narrative with consistency and persistence, is the optimal approach for managing adversity. This roundtable discussion will not only review how actively engaging and maintaining open communication are crucial steps in effectively handling the uncertainties that lie ahead, but also connect these proactive efforts to advertising, marketing, community relationships, establishing trust, community pride, and increased enrollment.
From Wild West to Ikigai: Creating Unity of Purpose
The Durango School District (CO) epitomizes the “Wild West,” in spirit and in practice, with schools that have historically practiced autonomy over unity. Evidence demonstrates this has not resulted in students finding their Ikigai-their sense of purpose for life beyond graduation. Explore how Durango has moved together to create a unity of purpose, a system-wide Portrait of a Graduate, a guaranteed and viable curriculum for ALL students, and an instructional framework focused on deeper learning-all while honoring and celebrating autonomy- with the ultimate goal of students finding their Ikigai.
80% of delegates said this is the best event they’ve attended all year
Keynote Speakers
A dynamic roster of keynote speakers drives innovation at our congress events. Discover thought leaders and game-changers whose invaluable insights foster growth and excellence in each of our delegates.
Saint Paul Public Schools
Waukegan Community Unit School District #60
Speakers
Mayfield City Schools
Smithfield Public Schools
Tenafly Public School District
Durango School District No. 9-R
Conway Public Schools
Shawnee Public Schools
Hawthorn District 73
Camdenton R-II School District, Missouri
Trenton Public Schools (Michigan)
The Schedule
Event Registration
Opening Keynote
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Afternoon Refreshments and Networking
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings/Roundtable Discussions/Workshops
Free Time
Welcome Drinks and Dinner
Networking Breakfast
Morning Keynote/Panel Session
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Morning Refreshments and Networking
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Workshops/Roundtable Discussions
Networking Luncheon
Roundtables/Business Meetings/Workshops
Afternoon Refreshments and Networking
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Leadership Talk
Free Time
Networking Drinks and Dinner
Morning Refreshments and Networking
Workshops/Roundtable Discussions
Brunch
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Closing Session
Our Commitments to You
Maximized Networking Opportunities
A personal, customized itinerary
Exclusive qualified attendance
return on time and objective
Delegate Testimonials
"RTM is the best conference I attend that is geared specifically for superintendents to network and learn from each other regarding the role of the superintendent. I have left each meeting with lots of resources and ideas from those conversations. Add to that the strategic, one-on-one partner meetings and the value of the conference increases tremendously. My school district’s students and staff members have benefited from my exposure and experiences at RTM."
This was my first experience at an event like this. I enjoyed having the variety of experiences from whole group to small group roundtables. The one-on-one opportunities with vendors allowed me to ask questions specific to me and allowed us both to use our time together most efficiently.
