About The Program
The RTM Spring Special Education Congress gathers the nation’s top district leaders ready to build what’s next for special education.
Three days of real conversation, where data becomes action, and ideas turn into districtwide change.
From using data that drives student growth and navigating budget cuts creatively to building stronger talent pipelines, this is where momentum meets mission.
Topics of Discussion
Using Data That Drives Student Growth
Explore how targeted data collection and analysis can be used to inform instruction, monitor progress, and drive meaningful growth for students.
Strategic Staffing for Specialized Programs
Learn innovative approaches to staffing specialized programs that maximize resources while meeting the diverse needs of students.
Navigating Budget Cuts Creatively
Discover how special education leaders are addressing financial challenges through strategic decision-making, program redesign, and resource reallocation.
Behavior Frameworks That Align and Deliver
Examine behavior support systems that align with district goals and show measurable results. Leaders will discuss frameworks and share ideas that integrate seamlessly into school culture while addressing the complex needs of students with behavioral challenges.
Data with Impact: Designing IEPs and Instruction Around What Matters Most
Unpack strategies for leveraging impactful data to create IEPs and instruction that are both compliant and meaningful. The focus will be on using student-centered data to prioritize outcomes that drive success.
Partnering with Families for Inclusive Growth
Learn effective ways to build authentic partnerships with families to support inclusive learning and student progress.
Creating a Culture of Belonging Districtwide
Explore districtwide initiatives and share approaches to shifting mindsets, policies, and practices to ensure every student feels seen and supported.
Building a Special Education Talent Pipeline
Dive into proactive strategies for recruiting, developing, and retaining special education staff, with a focus on building internal capacity and clear career pathways.
Unified MTSS: Blending Academic and Behavioral Supports
Discover how districts are unifying academic and behavioral supports within a cohesive MTSS framework to ensure timely, targeted interventions and every student gets the right support at the right time.
Building Supportive Work Environments to Combat Burnout
Learn how to foster work environments that prioritize staff well-being, reduce burnout, and improve retention.
89.47% of delegates said this is the best event they’ve attended all year
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.
School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University
Past & Current Speakers
Klein Independent School District, Texas
Parkway School District, Missouri
Boulder Valley School District, Colorado
Highline Public Schools, Washington
Portland Public Schools, Oregon
Mesa County Valley School District No. 51, Colorado
Mansfield Independent School District, Texas
Edmonds School District, Washington
Boulder Valley School District, Colorado
The Schedule
Event Registration
Opening Keynote
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Afternoon Refreshments and Networking
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings/Roundtable Discussions/Workshops
Free Time
Welcome Drinks and Dinner
Networking Breakfast
Morning Keynote
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Morning Refreshments and Networking
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Workshop/Roundtable Discussions
Networking Luncheon
Roundtables/Business Meetings/Workshops
Afternoon Refreshments and Networking
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Leadership Talk
Free Time
Networking Drinks and Dinner
Morning Refreshments and Networking
Workshop/Roundtable Discussions
Brunch
Strategy Sessions/Business Meetings
Closing Panel Discussion
Our Commitments to You
Maximized Networking Opportunities
A personal, customized itinerary
Exclusive qualified attendance
return on time and objective
Delegate Testimonials
This has been one of the most amazing and impactful experiences I have had as a special education leader. The level of knowledge, innovation and collaboration is awe inspiring. I feel honored to be invited to be a participant and presenter. I look forward to attending future RTM events!
I was unsure of what to expect as a first time attendee, and I have been beyond impressed with RTM. The networking and collaboration opportunities are so beneficial. I often connect with other districts in my area and state, but meeting and visiting with leaders in similar roles from around the US has been a great way to broaden my thinking. The quality of programming and professionalism is outstanding. I appreciate the business meeting opportunities - one on one conversations specific to our district’s needs with quality vendors has been great!
This was a well organized and purposeful event. It was attended by like-minded individuals. The business meeting model was great; intentional as opposed to wandering aimlessly among vendors. Great conference!
RTM events bring a different level of networking than other national conferences allow. Not only are they great events to showcase the student centered positive work being done, but they allow you to connect with colleagues across the country who are engaged in similar work. The ability to establish relationships with vendors is unique as you never know when you will be in need of some creative solutions.
