2027 April National Superintendents Forum

TBD
April 11th
- April 13th
2027

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About The Program

Join us at the April National Superintendents Forum, the premier professional development event designed for K-12 superintendents. Over two and a half days, you’ll explore some of today’s most pressing topics. The event offers a unique opportunity to stay at the forefront of technology, promote collaboration, and exchange insights with fellow superintendents.

Past Topics of Discussion

Great schools are not built by test scores or strategies alone—they are grown in a culture climate where hope is deliberate, morale is contagious, and every adult believes their work changes lives. This opening keynote reveals why culture is the ultimate accelerator of student growth, staff joy, and lasting success, and shows district leaders how to intentionally create the conditions where every student discovers purpose and every educator wakes up excited to make it happen.

This session provides a perfect space to discuss the balance between protection and support, ensuring safety doesn’t compromise culture. Superintendent Foister, this discussion’s Thought Leader, will also share how he implemented comprehensive security measures—secure vestibules, SRO training, and new technology—while also developing a mental health clinic funded through Medicaid. 

This discussion invites a candid, collaborative conversation on how superintendents keep long-term strategic efforts alive, accountable, and adaptable amid political and financial pressures.

Leadership succession is one of the most pressing challenges facing districts today. This discussion focuses on systems and mentorship programs that build leadership capacity from within.

Artificial Intelligence is transforming district operations and instruction. See how leaders are using AI to streamline processes, personalize learning, and enhance decision-making.

Most strategic plans stifle inspiration instead of driving impact because they ignore timing and adaptability. This roundtable will help us collectively brainstorm how to build living plans that foster ownership and measurable progress, while tackling the toughest leadership questions: when is change truly right, and when is the boldest move to shake things up—or to stand firm and execute relentlessly?

Post-pandemic classrooms are seeing a rise in behavioral challenges and disengagement, calling for systems that go beyond discipline to rebuild connection. This workshop explores how districts, such as CUSD 200, are using MTSS frameworks, restorative practices, and data-driven interventions to foster belonging and create consistent, supportive environments for every student.

The future of education depends on rebuilding the teacher pipeline. Learn innovative strategies to attract, develop, and sustain top talent in an increasingly competitive workforce.

With federal relief funds ending and budgets tightening, districts must innovate to survive. Let us explore how creative funding models, budget deficit reduction plans, and strategic partnerships can ensure programs remain sustainable.

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Past Keynote Speaker

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.

Rhett Ladner
Superintendent,
Hancock County Schools, Mississippi

Past Speakers

Dr. Gerry Benaquista
Superintendent,
Township of Union Public Schools, New Jersey
Arnold W. Bunch, Jr.
Superintendent,
Hamblen County Schools, Tennessee
John Cain
Shared Superintendent,
North Tama CSD and South Tama CSD, Iowa
Dr. Christopher Campbell
Superintendent,
Plymouth Public Schools, Massachusetts
Dr. Rochelle Clark
Superintendent,
Decatur Public Schools District #61, Illinois
Eric Foister
Superintendent,
West Memphis Schools, Arkansas
Dr. Jeff Horton
Superintendent,
Southwest Metro Intermediate District #288, Minnesota
Dustin Howard
Superintendent,
Clark County Public Schools, Kentucky
Dr. Chip Kay
Superintendent,
Columbus Public Schools, Nebraska

The Schedule

10:00 am - 5:30 pm

Event Registration

12:10 pm - 1:10 pm

Opening Keynote

1:20 pm - 1:40 pm

Afternoon Refreshments and Networking

1:40 pm - 3:55 pm

Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings

4:05 pm - 4:50 pm

Roundtables

5:00 pm - 5:45 pm

Workshops

5:45 pm - 6:30 pm

Free Time

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Welcome Drinks and Dinner

7:15 am - 8:00 am

Networking Breakfast

8:10 am - 8:55 am

Morning Keynote/Panel Session

9:05 am - 10:10 am

Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings

10:10 am - 10:25 am

Morning Refreshments and Networking

10:25 am - 11:30 am

Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings

11:40 am - 12:25 pm

Roundtables

12:30 pm - 1:25 pm

Networking Luncheon

1:30 pm - 2:15 pm

Workshops

2:25 pm - 3:30 pm

Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings

3:30 pm - 3:45 pm

Afternoon Refreshments and Networking

3:45 pm - 4:50 pm

Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings

4:55 pm - 5:35 pm

Leadership Talk

5:35 pm - 6:30 pm

Free Time

6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Networking Drinks and Dinner

8:00 am - 9:05 am

Business Meetings

9:10 am - 9:55 am

Breakfast

10:05 am - 10:50 am

Workshops​/Roundtable Discussions

11:15 am - 11:45 am

Closing Session

If you have access to the full schedule, click here. Otherwise, click here to get access.

Our Commitments to You

Maximized Networking Opportunities

Cultivate meaningful relationships with peers and thought leaders via networking opportunities and functions, strategically designed and planned by our team ahead of the event.

A personal, customized itinerary

Participants customize their schedule by selecting from various sessions, tracks and private meetings that align specifically with their business needs and goals.

Exclusive qualified attendance

In order to facilitate the most optimal networking and meeting opportunities, participation is invitation only and strictly limited to Senior Level Administrators & Executives.

return on time and objective

Your time and the objectives you have set are our top priority. We strive to facilitate the right meetings and introductions to ensure your time with us is being justified with real value.

Delegate Testimonials

Dr. Brad Rice
Superintendent, Stokes County Schools (NC)

This was my first time attending the National Superintendents Forum. It was a great way to broaden my perspective from just North Carolina to nationwide.

 

 

 

 

Amy Carter
Superintendent, Meridian Public School District (MS)

Game changing!!! Loved the small setting and opportunity to participate in discussions with partners

 

 

 

 

Andrew Johnson
Superintendent, Effingham Community Unit School District 40 (IL)

RTM has helped myself and our district to seek new innovative programs, etc. Our partnership has promoted opportunity for our students, staff and community to grow!! There is strength in numbers, the amount of contacts / resources I have been able to build through these events with RTM have been very beneficial for me and our district and the future of our kiddos!!

 

 

 

 

Shane Barnette
Superintendent, Cullman County Schools (AL)

Great conference that was designed perfectly for quality networking between superintendents from different regions of the country and business partners that bring wonderful opportunities for young people.