In professional environments shaped by pressure, urgency, and constant demand, many leaders especially educators find themselves leading from anxiety rather than significance. This keynote by Sterling Alexander Brown, Director of Strategic Partnerships at engage2learn.org., invites a return to intrinsic significance, where worth is not earned through performance but embodied through presence. When significance is intrinsic, grounded presence replaces reactivity, and leadership begins to steady classrooms, teams, and ultimately communities through how it shows up. Educators will learn that calm leadership does not mean passive leadership it means becoming a force of stabilization in the moments that matter most. The result is leadership that regulates, influences, and endures.
Dive Into Our 2026 Education Conference's Agenda
Theme: Transforming Ideas Into Action In Education
Explore visionary ideas that drive real-world educational solutions at the Education 2.0 Conference USA 2026, where the theme, "Transforming Ideas Into Action In Education," takes center stage. Our global education leadership conference is dedicated to bridging the gap between innovative educational theories and practical applications.
Gear up to be inspired, learn from the best, and start making a tangible impact in your educational community!
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Registration, Morning Coffee, And Refreshments
Ease into the day with a warm cup of coffee, light refreshments, and engaging conversations. Check in, meet fellow participants, and set the tone for a productive day ahead.
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Opening Note Education 2.0 Conference USA, 2026
The Education 2.0 Conference USA 2026 welcomes attendees to our three-day ed-tech summit focused on innovation, collaboration, and transformative learning. The agenda highlights groundbreaking ideas, emerging trends, and visionary perspectives shaping the future of education, creating a dynamic environment for insights, networking, and knowledge exchange.
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Panel Discussion: The Changing Definition Of College Readiness In A Digital World
A diploma is no longer enough—college readiness has a new definition. Proficiency in digital tools and flexible problem-solving, among other skills, are now critical components of this academic shift. This panel will discuss how schools can cultivate a balanced mix of technical, cognitive, and interpersonal aptitudes to prepare students for the demands of the modern world.
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Keynote: Introduction To UR Codes
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Panel Discussion: Education Policy In 2026: What’s Working, What’s Broken, What’s Next?
The education sector in 2026 is expected to stand at a critical crossroads, shaped by rapid tech integration, significant policy shifts, and other factors. While some reforms are positively impacting, new challenges are still emerging and raising concerns. This dedicated slot is set to explore revised industry policies, identify areas where systems are falling short, and highlight the reforms necessary to build a more equitable and adequate education landscape.
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Recognition Session
Let's acknowledge the lasting impact of professionals whose breakthrough teaching and impactful leadership have shaped and continue to define the education landscape.
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Lunch & Networking
Maximize your time by combining a refreshing lunch with an engaging networking session. This is an opportunity to interact with fellow educators, discuss industry challenges, and exchange ideas that could inspire innovations.
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Business Card Exchange Session
A quick exchange of business cards can open the door to meaningful professional relationships. Network with peers, explore ideas, and uncover opportunities for collaboration and growth.
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Keynote: Choose The Energy You Lead With: Reclaiming Power, Presence, & Purpose In Leadership Under Pressure
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Panel Discussion: Are We Listening? Giving Students A Voice In Their Education
The increasing integration of student input in the education system is supported by growing evidence that active learner participation significantly boosts engagement and outcomes. This panel discussion outlines the importance of student agency and explores how it can influence curriculum design and classroom practices. Attendees will gain strategies for building systems that truly reflect the needs of today’s diverse learners.
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Panel Discussion: Tapping Into The Billion-Dollar EdTech Industry
With the global EdTech market projected to reach $404 billion by 2025, innovation is transforming classrooms and corporate training spaces. That said, it has become essential to focus on this market to maximize benefits. This panel conversation will unpack the major investment trends, the hurdles facing EdTech startups, and the groundbreaking ideas poised to redefine the future of learning.
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Panel Discussion: The Language Of Self-Talk: Teaching Positive & Constructive Inner Dialogue
Self-talk is the bedrock of confidence, resilience, and emotional well-being. Yet, in our schools, this fundamental skill rarely finds a place in the mainstream curriculum. This panel explores how educators can teach students to develop constructive inner dialogue, combat self-doubt, and build a mindset for success. Expect to learn practical strategies for incorporating positive self-talk into educational settings to help students thrive.
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Panel Discussion: Teaching Kids To Think Like CEOs
What if kids were taught leadership, strategy, and decision-making as early as math and science? Traditional education often emphasizes memorization, but entrepreneurial thinking is just as vital. This panel slot outlines how educators can help cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills from an early age. Explore how business acumen can position students for success across various future careers.
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Recognition Session
Education is driven by those who challenge the status quo and inspire change. This slot acknowledges outstanding contributions to education, from groundbreaking teaching strategies to leadership that transforms learning experiences.
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Networking Hour
Use this dedicated networking hour to engage with industry experts and fellow attendees. This slot represents your closing window for the day to share valuable insights, build lasting connections, and initiate potential future partnerships.
Note: The timing and topics of sessions are subject to changes depending on speakers’ availability or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Registration, Morning Coffee, And Refreshments
Begin the second day of our event with a seamless registration process, complemented by fresh coffee and light refreshments. Use this time to connect with fellow attendees, exchange ideas, and set the tone for a day filled with thought-provoking discussions and learning.
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Panel Discussion: Education & The Culture Wars: Can Schools Stay Neutral?
Can schools truly remain neutral in today’s polarized world? It’s a hard debate. This panel highlights the essential ways these institutions can effectively confront such discussions while striving to create inclusive and balanced learning environments. Expert panelists will share real-world experiences and highlight the challenges and opportunities that arise when addressing sensitive societal issues within classrooms.
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Keynote: From Content to Conversation: Adult Learning That Changes Lives
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Panel Discussion: Internships, Apprenticeships & Experiential Learning In High Schools
How can high school education evolve to be more practically relevant, actively engaging, and better aligned with real-world exigencies? Educational institutions are increasingly integrating experiential learning modalities, such as internships, apprenticeships, and project-based curricula, to facilitate career exploration. This session will examine the growing adoption of experiential education and its impact on student engagement and career preparedness.
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Keynote: TBD
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Recognition Session
This session honors those making a remarkable impact in education. By celebrating innovation, leadership, and dedication, we recognize experts who are shaping a stronger, more inclusive future for learners around the world.
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Lunch & Networking
A shared meal is a great way to build meaningful relationships, and this session allows you to do just that. Enjoy a satisfying lunch while engaging in casual discussions that help strengthen existing connections and open new opportunities for professional growth.
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Panel Discussion: Beyond The Numbers: Rethinking Fairness In Math & IQ Assessments
How accurately do we measure intelligence, and what role do societal factors play in its perception? Math tests and IQ scores have long been used to define talent, but hidden biases often determine who is identified as gifted. This session uncovers the systemic barriers in intelligence testing, from socioeconomic disparities to cultural biases, and evaluates how schools can create more equitable opportunities for students.
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Keynote: TBD
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Panel Discussion: Defining Content Standards: Navigating Free Expression & Inclusive Education
The connection between academic freedom and inclusive education, especially with changing content standards, presents a significant pedagogical challenge. This panel of experienced educators will critically discuss ways to establish defensible boundaries between these critical educational objectives. Gain expert insights to create an optimal and diverse learning environment.
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Panel Discussion: Are We Expecting Too Much From Teachers & Not Enough From Systems?
Across education systems, teachers are facing mounting pressures—from staffing shortages and unrealistic workloads to outdated policies. While educators are expected to take on increasingly expansive roles, the structural issues behind these challenges often go unaddressed. This session will explore how systemic shortcomings, policy gaps, and funding inequities, among other factors, contribute to burnout. Learn the essentials to create resilient and supportive environments for educators and students.
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Panel Discussion: Dismantling The "Gifted Vs. Struggling" Dichotomy & Valuing Diverse Learning Strengths
Why are students still categorized as either excelling or falling behind? Traditional education often places learners into rigid groups, overlooking the unique talents and potential each student holds. In this session, leaders in the field will evaluate how schools can move beyond outdated classifications and champion a strengths-based approach to learning. This session will offer strategies for building flexible education models that recognize and nurture the diverse abilities.
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Panel Discussion: Teaching Self-Compassion & Growth Mindset In A High-Pressure World
In a world where challenges are constant, students with a growth mindset are more likely to see setbacks as opportunities to grow. Yet in high-pressure academic settings, many continue to struggle with fear of failure and self-doubt. This session focuses on how encouraging self-compassion and resilience in students can improve performance, support mental well-being, and build lasting confidence. This discussion will spotlight real-world practices that help students stay confident and motivated under pressure.
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Recognition Session
This break session is dedicated to celebrating the exceptional contributions of individuals and institutions in the education industry who are shaping the future of learning.
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Networking Hour
Whether you're looking for fresh ideas, business prospects, or professional alliances, this break session is designed to help you build valuable connections.
Note: The timing and topics of sessions are subject to changes depending on speakers’ availability or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Registration, Morning Coffee, And Refreshments
Fuel up with coffee and light bites as you register and connect with fellow participants. As the final day of our edutech summit begins, this is a perfect opportunity to introduce yourself, reflect on insights gathered so far, and set the tone for a day of limitless learning.
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Panel Discussion: How Different Countries Approach Education & What The US Can Learn
As the world reimagines education for the future, the US has a significant opportunity to address its persistent policy and practice challenges. Leading surveys suggest that education systems are testing new models emphasizing equity, adaptability, and future readiness. In this session, speakers will share notable education strategies and highlight what the US can borrow, adapt, or rethink to help students thrive in an evolving global landscape
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Keynote: TBD
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Panel Discussion: Teaching Gen Alpha: Lessons From Instagram, YouTube & Gaming
Gen Alpha children spend an average of 4.5 hours on screens daily, with 2.5 hours dedicated to social media alone. This deep digital engagement is shaping how they learn, communicate, and process information. In this session, speakers will examine how social media platforms and gaming environments are influencing Gen Alpha’s learning styles—and what schools can do to adapt. The conversation will also highlight strategies for integrating digital-first tools into more relevant, engaging classroom experiences.
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Panel Discussion: Integrating Indigenous Healing Practices Into Modern Education Systems
What if learning environments drew more deeply from the wisdom carried across generations? Exploring these roots can open new pathways for connection, relevance, and meaning in today’s classrooms. This session will explore practical ways to integrate cultural insights into everyday teaching, highlighting approaches that strengthen authenticity and respect. The panel will feature thoughtful voices sharing real experiences, perspectives, and actionable ideas to guide this critical conversation.
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Recognition Session
Let's take a moment to appreciate the educators, leaders, and institutions whose dedication and innovative work redefine learning and inspire the next generation.
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Lunch & Networking
Great conversations often happen over great food, and this is your chance to meet industry peers in a casual setting. Share experiences, discuss emerging trends, and expand your professional circle while enjoying a well-prepared meal.
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SPEAKERS FINALIZED
Keynote: Learning To Lead: Significance, Presence, And Calm Leadership
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Panel Discussion: Are We Sending Too Many Kids To College And Not Enough To Trade Schools?
Despite growing labor shortages in skilled trades and mounting student debt, the education system continues to prioritize four-year college degrees over vocational training. This imbalance raises critical questions about how well current pathways serve students and the economy. At our education conference, this discussion will examine whether more students should be encouraged to pursue trade skills, which industries are in urgent need of workers, and how to shift public perceptions around vocational careers as valuable and lucrative options.
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Panel Discussion: From Educator To Entrepreneur: Building Leadership Systems That Scale Beyond The Classroom
This session explores how educators can translate their leadership experience into sustainable entrepreneurial and consulting ventures by building systems that scale beyond the classroom. This conversation is not about leaving education. It's about expanding leadership impact. Attendees will leave with clear insights on how to expand their leadership impact by leveraging educational expertise to create scalable systems, influence broader communities, and build ventures that drive lasting change beyond traditional classrooms.
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Panel Discussion: What’s Next For Public Vs. Private Education?
As educational demands evolve and societal expectations shift, the divide between public and private education is becoming increasingly complex. Funding models, access to resources, academic outcomes, and innovation are all reshaping the conversation around what defines success. In this panel, leaders in the field will explore emerging trends, highlight the challenges both sectors face, and consider how public and private education might coexist—or compete—in the future.
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Panel Discussion: Navigating Identity & Self-Discovery In Adolescence
How do young people develop their identity in an age of constant influence? Adolescence is a time of self-discovery, but today’s teens face unprecedented challenges from social media, peer pressure, and evolving societal norms. In this panel discussion, health experts will share insights into navigating modern identity struggles and promoting emotional strength in today’s fast-paced environment.
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Vote Of Thanks
As the Education 2.0 Conference USA 2026 Edition concludes, we extend our gratitude to all attendees, speakers, and partners. Your contributions have made our three-day education conference impactful. Let’s keep the conversation going and drive meaningful change in the industry. See you at the next edition!
Note: The timing and topics of sessions are subject to changes depending on speakers’ availability or other unforeseen circumstances.