Have you ever wondered what actually takes place on "Superintendent’s Conference Day," beyond the fact that students don’t have school?

For educators, it's an invaluable opportunity to get inspired, develop new skills, enhance existing ones, share effective teaching strategies, and collaborate on innovative ways to use technology to support student learning.

The day began with a powerful keynote address by Michael Hingson, a 9/11 survivor who, along with his guide dog Roselle, safely led his colleagues down 78 flights of stairs from the World Trade Center’s Tower One. Born blind, Hingson shared an inspiring story that reminded teachers to encourage their students to look beyond perceived limitations and to believe that anything is possible.

After the keynote, teachers had the chance to attend a variety of professional development sessions, most led by their own colleagues. Topics ranged from integrating Artificial Intelligence tools in the classroom, to the effects of video games and social media on the brain, social development, and mental health. There were also sessions on preparing students for the collaborative workforce and practical workshops designed to increase teachers’ proficiency with educational tools that can enhance student learning.