23 Must-Attend Education Conferences for NJ Teachers and Leaders | Winter 2025 Edition

Conferences are a great part of an educator’s professional-development toolkit. These meetings of the minds allow professionals from various districts to come together and improve their strategies. During this time for gathering, educators collaborate and exchange just as many email addresses as best practices - leaving the conference with wonderful new connections.

Just like our relaxing winter breaks, conferences are also a type of self-investment. We return from both breaks and conferences inspired and rejuvenated for the remainder of the year, which benefits educators professionally and personally. However, conferences offer advantages such as networking with like-minded professionals and exchanging tips and tools with other educators. We’re making professional self-investment easy with our event round-up for educators. 

January

NJCIE Inclusion Leadership Conference
Seaview, A Dolce Hotel 401 S New York Rd  
Galloway, New Jersey
January 10, 2025
8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
$75-$175

The NJCIE Inclusion Leadership Conference is a vital event for school leaders and educators, offering dynamic workshops that equip attendees with essential skills and resources to implement inclusive education effectively. Led by nationally recognized experts and advocates in the field, these engaging sessions provide practical tools and innovative strategies that empower educators to foster supportive learning environments for all students. Attend to connect, learn, and collaborate on creating inclusive schools that benefit every learner.
 

Multiple Methods of Instruction: Supporting Diverse Learners in Preschool
Virtual
January 15, 2025
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Free

This workshop is designed to support educators in meeting the needs of all students in the preschool setting, including strategies for addressing challenging behaviors and the Pyramid Model framework.


Elementary Peer Mediation
New Jersey Law Center
One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
January 16, 2025
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 
Free

Peer mediation is a conflict resolution process where students mediate conflict among their peers. This training explores how to implement and sustain a student-based peer mediation program in your school, how to train students to be peer mediators and how mediation has been proven to reduce incidents of school violence.


Restorative Justice in Schools: Tier 1
New Jersey State Bar Foundation, New Jersey Law Center
One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
January 21, 2025
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Free

Restorative Justice is a proactive approach that is used in schools to build community, prevent and address harm and conflict, and help students positively re-integrate into school after an absence. This training will introduce educators to the concept of restorative justice and provide strategies for implementing Tier 1 community building restorative practices in elementary, middle, and high schools such as talking circles and daily restorative check-ins


Restorative Justice in Schools: Tier 2
New Jersey Law Center
One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
January 23, 2025  
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Free

The second in the Restorative Justice in Schools series, this training will explore disproportionality in discipline practices and provide strategies for addressing it by implementing Tier 2 restorative practices in schools such as restorative chats, mediations, and peacemaking circles.


How to Support Multilingual Learners Who Have Had Limited/Interrupted Education
Virtual
January 22, 2025  
4:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Free

It is easy to feel overwhelmed in these situations. Luckily, there are some simple strategies and resources that can help your SLIFE students make great strides. This workshop will share with participants ways to measure students’ basic abilities and then use that information to build a program to support them from where they are. Please be warned that this is not a quick fix as there are sometimes years of learning loss to remediate.  


Systems and Structures that Support Early Learning Mathematics Success (P-3)
Virtual
January 23, 2025  
3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Free

What systemic supports do your schools or district have in place to support positive, joyful learning environments and continual growth for teachers in early learning mathematics? On the contrary, are there inequitable structures in place that do not support inclusivity for all students? During this session, presenters will discuss productive and purposeful systemic approaches that support continuous improvement in early learning mathematics teaching and learning. They will also discuss shifts needed to create mathematics programs that are equitable, just, and inclusive for each and every student.


Understanding HIB Characteristics
New Jersey Law Center, One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
January 28, 2025
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 
Free

This training explores the definition of HIB (Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying) in the NJ Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights (ABR) and takes a cultural look at the distinguishing characteristics listed in the definition to help educators better identify those characteristics when completing HIB reports. Participants will explore specific HIB language, the difference between conflict and bullying, and how to prevent HIB by preventing bias.


Highly Inclusive Preschool Practices: Implementing Developmentally Appropriate Practices
Virtual
January 29, 2025  
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Free

This workshop will introduce teachers, families, and administrators to the basics of implementing developmentally appropriate practices for preschool students with disabilities, no matter what setting they are educated in. We will discuss how to encourage powerful play by preparing the environment, engaging in meaningful interactions, recognizing developmental processes, and teaching essential play skills to all children.


Social Emotional Character Development
New Jersey Law Center
One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
January 30, 2025  
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Free

This training explores how to integrate the five competencies of social and emotional learning into the school setting: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making. Educators will learn to incorporate these core SEL concepts into the classroom through lessons, journaling and habits.

February

Troy Hicks: AI in Education, Grades 4-12 ELA: Problems, Potentials, and Possible Futures
Rutgers Douglas Student Center
February 6, 2024
9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
$180

Artificial intelligence is increasingly integrated into our daily lives, sparking debate over its impact on education. While some view it as a transformative force, others worry it may hinder students' critical and creative thinking. In this session, Troy Hicks will examine generative AI tools for writing and research, such as ChatGPT and Perplexity, and discuss their potential integration into classrooms. Emphasizing the importance of teaching writing as a valuable mode of learning, we will explore how educators can engage with AI responsibly to enhance student learning and foster critical thinking skills.


2025 Annual AMTE Conference
Reno, Nevada, Virtual options available
February 6-8, 2025
8:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
$200-$800

Math educators, are you ready for the 2025 Annual AMTE Conference in Reno, Nevada, from February 6-8, 2025? This premier event offers inclusive opportunities for a diverse community of mathematics educators to exchange current research and best practices. With over 600 participants in recent years, the conference will feature engaging sessions, including a hybrid attendance option and special programming for K-12 educators. Attendees will connect at the Grand Sierra Resort, conveniently located near the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Don’t miss this chance to collaborate and advance mathematics education together!


Innovative Schools Summit
New York Marriott Marquis, New York
February 12-15, 2025
9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
$595-$850

Don’t miss this chance to enhance your skills, collaborate with peers, and gain actionable insights to elevate your teaching practice at the Innovative Schools Summit - New York from February 12-15, 2025, at the New York Marriott Marquis. This premier conference offers a unique opportunity for educators to network and learn from nationally recognized speakers who share their proven strategies for success in the classroom and beyond. Attendees will benefit from access to four co-located education conferences, allowing for a personalized learning experience that addresses diverse educational needs.  


Using the Review of the Preschool Day, Supplementary Support and Aides, and Activity Matrixes
Virtual
February 19, 2025  
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Free

This workshop will help teachers plan developmentally appropriate accommodates and modifications by reviewing the expectations of developmentally appropriate routines and activities in the general education preschool classroom and how to design accommodations, modifications, and services that support preschool children with disabilities within the general education settings.


Equity Based Practices in Mathematics across the P-3 Continuum
Virtual
February 20, 2025
3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Free

One of the central challenges facing early childhood mathematics teachers is how to meet academic standards while creating learning environments that honor young children's mathematical ideas, curiosity, enjoyment, and playfulness. During this session, the presenter will introduce several brief whole-group and partner daily math routines designed to engage young children in meaningful math thinking and build problem-solving communities.


2025 NJ Music Educators Association State Conference
Convention Center, Atlantic City, NJ
February 20-22, 2025
8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
$200-$390

The 2025 NJMEA State Conference is the only comprehensive professional development event for music educators in the state of New Jersey.  This event offers hands-on workshops, performances, keynotes, and music industry exhibits relevant to all areas of music education: PreK-12, collegiate, instrumental, choral, jazz, technology, and general classroom, in targeted sessions throughout the 3-day period.


2025 NJAHPERD Annual Convention
Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village 
201 Village Blvd Princeton, NJ 08540
February 24-25, 2025
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
$75-$350

The 2025 NJAHPERD Annual Convention is a can't miss event for dedicated professionals in Health Education, Physical Education, Dance Education, and Physical Activity. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in nearly 80 unique programs covering a wide array of topics and the latest research findings. The convention also features a vibrant exhibit hall with over 35 vendors, providing insights into products and services that enhance educational environments. This is an exceptional chance to network, share ideas, and celebrate excellence in our fields. Don’t miss out on this inspiring gathering of like-minded educators!

March
 

Leading, Inspiring, & Transforming Education Through Technology Conference
Virtual and in-person
March 11-12, 2025
Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. 
Wednesday 9:30 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. 
$225

Join hundreds of educators in Montclair for the Leading, Inspiring, & Transforming Education Through Technology Conference, featuring a keynote address followed by over 60 presentations from esteemed educational professionals in K-12 schools and universities. This year’s conference will offer specialized sessions for Library Media Specialists, Tech Coaches, STEM Teachers, Special Education Teachers, and IT Professionals, alongside general sessions accessible to all attendees. Engage with innovative strategies and insights that will empower you to enhance your teaching practices and effectively integrate technology in your educational environment. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with fellow educators and elevate your professional development!


NJCEC 2025 Spring Conference
Ramapo College of New Jersey 
505 Ramapo Valley Road, Mahwah, New jersey
March 17, 2025  
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
$90-$190

The 2025 NJCEC Spring Conference will feature keynote speaker Ron Shuali, M.Ed., a best-selling author and motivational speaker with over 15 years of experience in education. Known for his engaging presentations, Ron will lead participants through a keynote session, followed by more than 50 breakout sessions tailored for various educational professionals. Attendees can enjoy a continental breakfast, lunch, vendor exhibits, door prizes, and earn professional development hours and a certificate. This event promises to be an enriching experience for educators looking to enhance their skills and connect with peers in the field.


Rutgers Online Learning Conference
Virtual
March 17, 2025
8:45 a.m. - 5 p.m.  
Free for Rutgers faculty, staff and students 
$29

The Rutgers Online Learning Conference is a premier event that unites leading experts in the online, hybrid, and EdTech sectors to enhance teaching and learning through technology. Scheduled for March 17, 2025, this conference will feature engaging discussions on learner engagement, instructional design, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Attendees will benefit from insightful presentations, including a keynote by Michelle Pacansky-Brock on "The Human Advantage: Online Teaching & Learning in the AI Era," emphasizing the importance of authentic connections in education. This is an invaluable opportunity for educators, instructional designers, and anyone interested in technology-assisted education to collaborate and share innovative strategies for success.


FLENJ 2025 Annual Conference: Cultivate Curiosity: Inspiring Lifelong Language Learners
Rutgers University – Rutgers Academic Building
15 Seminary Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
March 19, 2025
$140-$180

Join hundreds of World Language educators for the FLENJ 2025 Annual Conference. Hosted by Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ, this premier event offers forward-thinking professional development with a variety of interactive sessions tailored to meet your interests and needs. Participants will have networking opportunities, attend the annual business meeting, and celebrate achievements during the student and teacher awards ceremony. Registration is limited and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with 6 hours of professional development credit awarded upon completion. Stay tuned for the conference lineup and schedule!


Reflective Feedback for Early Mathematics Classrooms (P-3)
Virtual
March 20, 2025
3:30 - 4:15 p.m.
Free

Specific characteristics and teaching strategies of effective early mathematics teachers support students success in early learning mathematics. During this session we will discuss specific indicators of quality in the mathematics environment, interactions, and activities.


Valentina Gonzalez: Literacy with Multilingual Learners: Strategies for Effective Literacy Instruction for K-12 Multilingual Learners
Rutgers Livingston Student Center
Thursday, March 27, 2025
9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
$180

Multilingual learners are the fastest-growing population in the U.S., prompting schools to adapt literacy instruction to meet their unique needs. This session, based on the book *Welcome to Teaching Multilingual Learners* co-authored by Douglas Fisher and Nancy Frey, will provide practical strategies for enhancing literacy outcomes for multilingual students in K-12 classrooms. Participants will engage in discussions, simulations, and hands-on activities focused on culturally responsive literacy approaches, language acquisition, and differentiated instruction techniques for reading and writing. Attendees will leave empowered to celebrate multilingualism and effectively support the literacy development of multilingual learners. 
 

If you’re considering following your dream of teaching, Rutgers Alternate Route can offer you the support and training you need to succeed. Be sure to follow Rutgers Alternate Route on Twitter and sign up for Alternate Route’s monthly newsletter for more information and stories from the field of education.