This conference delves into the critical link between student engagement, well-being, and belonging, using insights from the Challenge Success-Stanford Survey of School Experiences. It provides an overview of survey findings that highlight how engagement affects well-being and how schools can better support students in this area. Attendees will learn strategies implemented by Challenge Success schools to boost engagement and foster environments that prioritize student-centered improvement efforts.

A key focus will be on sharing and modeling protocols for listening to and centering students in school improvement processes. Participants will engage in these Listening In Protocols, gaining practical insights into how student voices can drive meaningful changes in schools. The conference emphasizes the importance of fostering engagement as a cornerstone of educational improvement.

Another core theme is the concept of rigor in education, with a focus on routines that promote learning at surface, deep, and transfer levels.The practical use of these routines will connect with ensuring students are engaged in core content and meeting the learning and skill set outcomes. Educators will explore tested and proven strategies that enhance learning for students of all abilities, providing practical examples that can be applied in the classroom immediately. These routines aim to build lasting teaching and learning habits that benefit both new and experienced educators.

Finally, the conference is designed to support school leaders in sustaining high-impact teaching practices. Attendees will gain a toolkit of leadership habits that empower teachers and students, enhancing critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and independent learning. These habits are essential for navigating the complexities of today’s educational landscape, ensuring students and educators alike thrive in a dynamic world.