Elementary, Middle School Principals from Across Nation to Gatherfor NAESP's 'Best Practices for Better Schools' Conference

National Harbor, Md. — Elementary and middle-level principals from around the nation will gather for the National Association of Elementary School Principals’ (NAESP) Best Practices for Better Schools™ National Conference and Expo of the Year, July 6-8 in National Harbor, Maryland, near Washington, D.C. Preconference activities begin on Tues., July 5.

The largest national conference for pre-K-8 principals, it will connect school leaders with best practices, success stories, and practical solutions for their schools—to lead students and teachers toward success. Principals will gather as schools, districts, and states across the country prepare to implement the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which sets many new requirements for schools. This year’s international contingency of principals includes leaders from Canada, Moldova, Nicaragua, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.

Entire strands of the more than 100 conference sessions will focus on critical topics in education leadership that impact principals every day: educational equity, effective learning communities, technology, transforming schools, and more. Visit www.naespconference.org for a full list of sessions.

Featured

  • Designing Third Spaces That Do What AI Can't

    In 2026, education is evolving faster than ever. With AI reshaping everything from lesson planning to personalized instruction, schools and universities are turning their attention to what AI can’t replicate: spaces that foster collaboration, community, and creativity.

  • UCF Modernizes College of Hospitality Management

    The University of Central Florida in Orlando, Fla., recently completed a major renovation effort for the Rosen College of Hospitality Management, according to a news release. The project modernized 77,600 square feet worth of academic classrooms, teaching labs, and collaborative spaces to support both students and faculty.

  • CU-Lock Haven Receives $1.75M Gift for New Entrepreneurship, Media Center

    Commonwealth University-Lock Haven in Lock Haven, Penn., recently received a $1.75-million donation from entrepreneur and alumnus Nicholas Subich ’17, according to a university news release. The funds will go toward establishing the Nicholas Subich Center for Entrepreneurship and Media, a technology-driven hub for innovation and experiential learning.

  • Phoenix School District Breaks Ground on New Prep Academy

    The Creighton Elementary School District near Phoenix, Ariz., recently broke ground on a campus replacement for Biltmore Preparatory Academy, according to a news release. The new space will allow the school to expand its enrollment by 50 percent for K–8 students and accommodate modern, collaborative learning styles.