Joint Annual Conference

November 20-22, 2026

Registration Open

Experience the 2026 Joint Annual Conference where innovation, leadership, and real‑world solutions come together to move Illinois schools forward. Join thousands of school leaders for three days of training, networking, and peer support in Chicago, November 20-22. The Annual Conference provides Illinois school board members, superintendents, and business officials with opportunities to

  • Gain knowledge of the topics shaping the future of education,
  • Strengthen leadership capacity with hands-on training, and
  • Build connections with advocates and decision makers from every corner of the state.

Register

Conference Schedule & Planner

Explore the Conference program with all currently scheduled panel sessions, special events, workshops, and more. Search the Conference Planner by topical track or based on your school leadership role and plan a custom experience that meets the professional development needs of you and your district team.

View Conference Schedule

Conference Planner Image

By the Numbers

  • 8,900
    TOTAL ATTENDANCE
  • 270+
    EXHIBITORS
  • 120+
    PANEL SESSIONS

Additional Conference Events

  • Friday Focus Workshops

    IASB Friday Focus Workshops will be held on November 20 and are designed to give school board members knowledge, skills, and resources to provide effective board leadership.
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  • Administrative Professionals

    Enhance the roles and skills of the individual(s) who perform the duties of the school board secretary or administrative assistant with special programming on Friday, November 20 and Saturday, November 21.
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  • Delegate Assembly

    At the Delegate Assembly, IASB members vote on proposals submitted by local school boards to help guide the Association’s advocacy work. The 2026 Delegate Assembly will take place on Saturday, November 21.
    Learn More

2026 Joint Annual Conference Diamond Sponsors


Ameresco


F3 Logo


E-Pay Illinois Logo


Conference Announcements

  • What’s New at the 2026 Joint Annual Conference? April Edition

    April brings news of a new look for some hotel spaces and a new location and date for the Equity Immersion. 

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  • IASB News for District Administrative Professionals

    Information on the Tasha Levy Memorial Scholarship and Holly Jack Outstanding Service Award.

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  • 2026 IASB Resolutions Process Begins

    Successful resolutions become IASB Position Statements, which guide the direction of the Association’s advocacy efforts and legislative agenda.

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  • What’s New at the 2026 Joint Annual Conference? May Edition

    May brings news of a new exhibit experience at the Sheraton Grand Chicago.

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  • New Exhibit Trade Show at 2026 Joint Annual Conference

    Two Exhibit Trade Shows are planned, on November 21 at the Sheraton Grand, and November 20-21 at the Hyatt Regency. 

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  • Friday Focus Workshops Offer Targeted School Board Member Training

    Grow your governing and board leadership skills with multiple half-day sessions, morning and afternoon, on November 20.

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  • General Session Speakers Will Inspire, Inform, Motivate

    The 2026 Joint Annual Conference, November 20-22, includes three General Sessions, one on each day of the event.

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  • Administrative Professionals’ Program Offers Inspiration, Networking, Partnerships, and More

    Designed to enhance the skills and effectiveness of district staff whose work includes supporting the board of education and superintendent within their district.

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  • What’s New at the 2026 Joint Annual Conference? July Edition

    A new onsite badge system is on the way for the 2026 Joint Annual Conference.

    Read More