About The Program
As public education faces an era of rapid transformation, superintendents are at the helm of some of the most pressing challenges in K-12 today. From staffing shortages and declining student engagement to political pressures and funding uncertainty, district leaders are navigating unprecedented complexities while striving to ensure student success.
The 2026 September National Superintendents Forum, co-located with the 2026 South Special Education Congress, brings together 80 superintendents from across the country for a high-impact, peer-driven event. Through focused discussions, collaborative roundtables, and expert-led sessions, this invitation-only forum provides a space for leaders to exchange solutions on critical topics, including the evolving role of AI, mental health initiatives, equitable funding models, and fostering a strong teacher pipeline.
Join us to connect, share best practices, and shape the future of public education in a time of uncertainty and opportunity.
Topics of Discussion
Making Every Dollar Count: Leading Through the Funding Cliff
As districts navigate the post-ESSER landscape, superintendents are being forced to make critical financial decisions that directly impact student outcomes. This session explores strategic resource allocation, operational efficiencies, and innovative funding approaches to sustain progress without compromising impact.
The Talent Crisis Playbook: Recruiting, Retaining, and Rebuilding Your Team
AI in Action: Leading Innovation Without Losing Control
AI is rapidly reshaping education—and superintendents must lead with both innovation and responsibility. This session explores practical approaches to AI governance, instructional integration, and data protection, while preparing students for an evolving workforce. Hear how districts are balancing opportunity with risk in real time.
Compete, Differentiate, Thrive: Winning in the Era of School Choice
With increasing competition and evolving community expectations, districts must clearly define and communicate their value. This conversation examines how leaders are redesigning school models, expanding program offerings, and differentiating their districts to better serve diverse student needs.
Beyond the Data: Driving Real Student Outcomes That Matter
Improving student outcomes remains the core priority—but the path forward requires sharper focus and better use of data. This session highlights strategies for accelerating learning recovery, closing achievement gaps, and measuring true instructional impact. Explore how districts are using data to drive decisions and personalize student success.
Leading in the Spotlight: Navigating Politics, Pressure, and Public Trust
Superintendents are navigating increasingly complex political and community dynamics. This session focuses on managing board relationships, leading through public scrutiny, and effectively communicating district priorities in polarized environments.
When It Hits the Fan: Leading Through Crisis with Clarity and Control
From safety incidents to operational disruptions, superintendents must be prepared to lead through moments of crisis. This discussion explores what effective leadership looks like in the first 24 hours and beyond—covering communication, decision-making, and maintaining trust.
The Superintendent’s Guide to Longevity and Resilience
Past 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.
Special School District of St. Louis County, Missouri
Sylvania Schools, Ohio
Speakers
Albuquerque Public Schools, New Mexico
Vista Unified School District, California
Adair County Schools, Kentucky
Educational Service District 113, Washington
Cleburne Independent School District, Texas
Longview Independent School District, Texas
Douglas Public Schools, Massachusetts
Educational Service District 113, Washington
Teays Valley Local Schools, Ohio
The Schedule
Event Registration
Opening Keynote
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Afternoon Refreshments & Networking
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings/Roundtable Discussions/Workshops
Free Time
Welcome Reception & Dinner
Networking Breakfast
Morning Keynote/Panel Session
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Morning Refreshments & Networking
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Workshops/Roundtable Discussions
Networking Luncheon
Roundtables/Business Meetings/Workshops
Afternoon Refreshments & Networking
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Closing Day Keynote
Free Time
Networking Reception & Dinner
Morning Refreshments & Networking
Workshops/Roundtable Discussions
Brunch
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Closing Keynote
Our Commitments to You
Maximized Networking Opportunities
A personal, customized itinerary
Exclusive qualified attendance
return on time and objective
Delegate Testimonials
The RTM events are well thought out, relevant, stimulating and relaxing. They are a welcome forum for educational leaders to recharge and stay focused on the hard work being done daily.
I have found the RTM Superintendent Events to be extremely valuable. These events have been a catalyst for collaboration, enabling me to establish lasting relationships with fellow superintendents and educational vendors. The platform's unique environment has allowed for the exchange of ideas and insights, fostering professional growth, and contributing significantly to the success of my educational initiatives. I highly recommend RTM Superintendent Events to anyone seeking a dynamic space for building meaningful connections within the education community.
I found the RTM experience to be an opportunity to rejuvenate my own leadership and focus on the business of education, and not the distractions we face each day. The professional connections with colleagues from across the nation and the opportunity to speak with individuals who are experience similar challenges was rewarding and extremely beneficial. I would recommend RTM experience to any Superintendent.
RTM provides an opportunity for networking unlike other conferences I have attended. Seeing and hearing leaders from other states is eye opening in several ways. For one, you see that we all deal with many of the same problems across the country and solve those problems in similar ways. On the other hand, the political structures of the state educational systems vary so drastically that you realize what is the main "fight" in one state may be a much smaller issue in another. You don't get these experiences unless you attend a conference such as what RTM organizes.
