About The Program
The East Special Education Congress, with its overarching theme of “Connected for a Purpose: Creating a Culture of Inclusion and Resilience,” stands out as a distinctive opportunity for district leaders at the director level and above. This exclusive gathering offers a platform not only for networking but also for the collaborative exploration of forthcoming challenges and innovative solutions within the realm of inclusive education.
What to Expect:
Engage in strategic discussions that delve into the core of inclusive education. Participate in sessions crafted to foster in-depth conversations on evolving challenges and share insights that contribute to the ongoing transformation of special education environments.
Connect with director-level leaders who share a commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments. This congress provides a unique space for high-level networking, creating opportunities to establish valuable professional relationships that extend beyond the event.
Explore practical solutions to the real-world challenges faced by leaders in special education. Benefit from the collective wisdom of experienced professionals as you collectively address issues such as curriculum design, staffing shortages, and the integration of innovative technologies in the pursuit of enhanced student outcomes.
As a district leader, your VIP pass to the East Special Education Congress is not just an entry to an event; it’s an investment in your professional growth and a step toward shaping the future of special education, ensuring that every student thrives in an environment of equity and support.
Topics Of Discussion
Reducing Administrative Burdens with AI: Simplifying Compliance and Documentation
Effective transition planning helps students with disabilities prepare for meaningful post-secondary opportunities. This session will share best practices for creating student-centered transition plans that address academics, career exploration, life skills, and community connections.
Building Strong Special Education Teams Through Targeted Professional Development
Special education teams thrive when professional learning is relevant, ongoing, and tailored to their unique challenges. This session will share strategies for designing professional development that builds skills, supports collaboration, and improves job satisfaction across your special education staff.
Trauma-Informed Approaches to Supporting Mental Health and Behavior
When schools embrace trauma-informed practices, students and staff alike benefit from safer, more supportive environments. Learn how special education teams can identify trauma-related behaviors, respond with empathy, and implement proactive strategies that promote healing and positive outcomes.
Writing Effective IEP Goals: Setting Clear Objectives and Measuring Progress
Crafting strong, measurable IEP goals is critical to student success — and ensuring compliance. This session will walk through practical strategies for writing clear, achievable objectives and tracking progress in ways that are meaningful for both educators and families.
Inclusive Instructional Strategies for Diverse Learners
Meeting the needs of all learners requires flexible, inclusive approaches to teaching. This session will explore instructional strategies that support students with diverse learning needs in general education classrooms, promoting access, engagement, and success for every student.
The Impact of Unique Stressors on Special Education Morale — And How to Improve It
High caseloads, complex student needs, and constant compliance pressures take a toll on special education teams. This session will unpack the unique stressors facing these professionals and offer strategies for improving morale, building resilience, and fostering a more supportive work environment.
Transition Planning for College, Careers, and Independent Living
Effective transition planning helps students with disabilities prepare for meaningful post-secondary opportunities. This session will share best practices for creating student-centered transition plans that address academics, career exploration, life skills, and community connections.
92.3% of delegates said this is the best event they’ve attended all year
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.
Klein Independent School District
Chapel Hill- Carrboro City Schools
Klein Independent School District
Past Speakers
Huntley Community School District 158, Illinois
Calvert County Public Schools, Maryland
Dallas Independent School District
Loudoun County Public Schools, Virginia
Rio Rancho Public Schools
Waco Independent School District, Texas
Dallas Independent School District
Charter Institute at Erskine, South Carolina
Bledsoe County School District, Tennessee
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
This has been the most relevant conference that I’ve experienced in a very long time. I attend 2-3 professional conferences annually, and I’m taking more applicable content back from just Day 1 than I can recall in 39 years of work in education
RTM provides a unique experience that blends networking, learning, and opportunities to get to know industry partners. The big difference from the typical conference is the opportunity to meet with industry partners in an informal conversation while also learning from their experience. There are great opportunities to build a healthy learning and resource network with colleagues, industry experts, and industry partners. The opportunities are vast and the experience is powerful.
An impeccably organized event where educators from diverse corners of the country unite to share their narratives, contributing significantly to advancing the educational landscape.
I am thrilled I was afforded the opportunity to participate in my first RTM experience. It was refreshing to be surrounded by so many like-minded professionals who understand the barriers we are all facing. I was pleased with the way the RTM staff worked so diligently from the registration process to the final session. First class all the way!
