Second Annual ISTELive and ASCD Annual Conference Convenes Global Education Leaders Around the Future of Learning

More than 15,000 attendees gathered in Orlando, Florida, and online for a conference featuring major announcements, research, AI initiatives, and innovative professional learning to help schools navigate the future of education.

ORLANDO, FLORIDA (JULY 1, 2026) – 15,201 participants from 86 countries and all 50 states attended the second annual co-located ISTELive and ASCD Annual Conference, held in Orlando, Florida, and online from June 28-July 1, 2026. Building on the momentum of last year’s inaugural joint event, this year’s conference convened educators, school and district leaders, instructional coaches, researchers, policymakers, and education industry leaders for four days of professional learning, collaboration, and major announcements shaping the future of teaching and learning.

Across four days, the conference featured 2,009 speakers, 355 student presenters, and 424 exhibitors, showcasing innovative solutions and services designed to support schools and districts.

“This year’s conference reflected both the momentum and the responsibility our profession has in shaping the future of education by creating transformational learning experiences for all students,” said Richard Culatta, CEO of the International Society for Transforming Education. “The conversations, ideas, and innovations shared this week demonstrate what’s possible when educators come together to solve real challenges, learn from one another, and prepare students for what's next.”

In addition to hundreds of professional learning experiences, the conference served as the stage for several significant organizational announcements and new initiatives focused on safe and purposeful edtech, evidence for technology, and AI skills that matter for today’s students.

One of the conference’s most significant milestones came during Sunday’s opening keynote, when Culatta and Dr. Jeremy Owoh, Board President, officially unveiled the organization’s new name as the International Society for Transforming Education. The announcement reflects the organization’s continued evolution following the 2023 merger and reinforces its commitment to helping educators transform learning worldwide. Today, the organization serves more than 80,000 educators across more than 85 countries, with the ISTE Standards now adopted in all 50 U.S. states.

Featured voices on the mainstage included: Heather McGowan, Bestselling Author, Leadership Expert, and LinkedIn Global Voice for Education; Deanna Marsigliese, Pixar Art Director, Character Designer, and Animator; Mychal Threets, Resident Librarian, PBS and PBS Kids “Reading Rainbow” Host; and more. As well as other leading educators, authors, researchers, and innovators who shared practical insights and bold ideas for the future of education.

Beyond the keynote announcements, attendees participated in hands-on workshops, interactive playgrounds, networking events, poster sessions, and student-led presentations designed to foster collaboration and share practical strategies for improving teaching and learning. Sessions, in person and online, explored topics ranging from artificial intelligence and digital citizenship to instructional leadership, curriculum design, assessment, and student well-being.

The continued success of the conference demonstrates the growing demand for professional learning that bridges instructional excellence with technological innovation. The 2027 conference will take place in Boston, Massachusetts from June 27-30, 2027. For more information about next year’s event, please visit https://conference.iste.org/2027/.

About the International Society for Transforming Education

The International Society for Transforming Education is a nonprofit that guides and inspires educators to create purposeful, high-quality learning experiences that reflect each learner's skills, interests, and identities through aligned instructional strategies, technology, and educator practice. Through a global community of educators, evidence-based standards, trusted professional learning, independent journalism, leading authors, and research-driven insights, we provide unparalleled support across curriculum, instruction, and educational technology.

ISTE serves 80,000+ educators across 85+ countries — with the ISTE Standards formally referenced or adopted in all 50 U.S. states — helping instructional leaders invest with confidence, educators teach with purpose, and solution providers deliver meaningful impact, so every student is prepared for success in school and beyond. Learn more at iste-ascd.org.