EPIC - EdLeader Promise Innovation Conference

October 13-15, 2026 | Chicago, Illinois

The EdLeader Promise Innovation Conference (EPIC) showcases the most powerful, innovative, and future-focused practices in public education.

AASA is seeking proposals that accelerate system transformation and reflect the AASA Public Education Promise Framework.

*NOTE: You must be an EdLeader Promise Network member to submit a proposal and attend this event. Interested in joining? Learn more here.

Proposal Deadline

April 30, 2026

Submit Now

Public Education Promise background shapes

Share Your Story

We're seeking proposals that candidly showcase both the challenges you’ve faced and the progress you’ve made—grounded firmly in the principles of The Public Education Promise.

We're looking for real stories of system transformation: what sparked the work, where obstacles emerged, how teams adjusted, and what measurable impact followed.

Strong proposals will move beyond inspiration to application, and will equip participants with actionable strategies, practical tools, and replicable approaches they can adapt in their own contexts.

Focus Zones
 Prioritize Student-Centered Learning
 The New Basics: Real Skills for Real Life
 Attract, Hire, Retain & Reward the Best People
 Build Highly Engaged Family, Community & Business Partnerships
 Measure What Matters
Session Formats

Proposals can be submitted for the following session formats:

 Workshop (60 minutes)

Interactive, hands-on skill-building session

 Presentation (60 minutes)

Research, models, frameworks, or case studies

 Panel (60 minutes)

Multi-perspective insights on a shared problem

 Roundtable (30 minutes)

Small-group, peer learning, and collaborative exchange

 Promise to Practice Expo

Showcase district artifacts, student work, and implementation tools

Important Dates & Details

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Call for Proposals

Call for Proposals Opens: March 5, 2025
Call for Proposals Closes: April 30, 2026
Notifications Sent: By mid-June 2026

Submit Now

EPIC Registration Fees & Deadlines

Early (by August 14): $899
Regular (by September 25): $999
Late (after September 25): $1,149

*NOTE: You must be an EdLeader Promise Network member to register for this event. Interested in joining? Learn more here.

Groups of 6 or more from one district are eligible for 10% off the listed rate.

EdLeader Promise Network members receive one free registration. Additional team members must register for a fee.

EPIC general session
Questions?

Contact Ann Levett, Senior Vice President, AASA.