25 Must-Attend Conferences and Webinars | Spring 2026 Edition

New Jersey's educators consistently demonstrate their dedication to professional growth, leveraging a wealth of resources to enhance their skills and create dynamic learning environments. This unwavering commitment to self-improvement often places New Jersey at the forefront of prestigious national rankings in education.

Conferences have long been vital hubs for professional networking, idea exchange, and career development. In recent years, the landscape of professional development has undergone a significant transformation, breaking down geographical barriers, and opening up unprecedented opportunities for educators. New Jersey-based teachers now have the ability to participate in events not just within the state, but across the country and around the world.

The following list showcases a variety of professional development events that reflect this new, interconnected educational landscape. These opportunities cater to educators seeking to refine their teaching methods and stay at the forefront of educational innovation.

Please note: All times listed in the blog are Eastern Standard Time

March

Designing for All: Strategies for Maximizing Instruction to Reach All Learners
Virtual  
Friday, March 6, 2026
1- 2:30 p.m.
Free

Designing instruction that truly reaches all learners requires more than good intentions-it requires intentional design. Designing for All: Strategies for Maximizing Instruction to Reach ALL Learners is an interactive training that explores foundational instructional design practices alongside inclusive strategies that promote equity and access. Participants will examine Universal Design for Learning (UDL), differentiation, accommodations, and modifications, and learn how to strategically utilize these tools to remove barriers, support diverse learning needs, and maximize instructional impact. Educators will leave with practical strategies and a clear framework for designing learning experiences that enable every learner to succeed.

Expert Series: Structured Literacy for Multilingual Learners: What Every Educator Should Know
Virtual
Monday, March 9, 2026  
3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
Free

Structured Literacy is a term that describes a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to literacy instruction. It includes foundational skills in reading and writing, as well as the development of oral language and comprehension, in an explicit and systematic manner. Multilingual learners have been included in large-scale research studies, which will be described in this session. Additionally, evidence-based practices for literacy skills will be modeled and practiced. Participants will learn how to design lessons that include cross-linguistic features and thus implement an asset-based approach to literacy instruction among multilingual learners. 


Planting the Seeds of Environmental Learning: A Workshop for K–5 Educators
NJ School of Conservation
1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826 United States
March 20 - March 21, 2026
$45.00— $95.00

Join us for a Project Learning Tree (PLT) workshop at the New Jersey School of Conservation, designed specifically for educators working with students in grades K-5. Set within a beautiful forested campus, this hands-on professional learning experience brings environmental education to life while modeling best practices for outdoor and inquiry-based instruction.

Participants will explore and practice activities from the Environmental Education Activity Guide for NJ Teachers, gaining practical tools to integrate tree-based and environmental concepts across science, literacy, math, and social studies. Through guided outdoor investigations, collaborative lesson planning, and reflective discussions, educators will learn how to foster curiosity, stewardship, and critical thinking in young learners.

Built In Accessibility: iPad, Chromebook, and Windows Features for Every Learner
Learning Resource Center - Central 
200 River View Plaza, 1st floor 
Trenton, NJ 08611
March 26, 2026  
1- 3 p.m. 

Free

This hands-on session explores the powerful accessibility features already built into the devices students use every day. Participants will learn how to activate, customize, and integrate these features to support reading, writing, and executive functioning within the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework.

Trauma Savvy School Culture
Virtual
Monday, March 30, 2026
9 a.m. - noon
Free

Everyone is affected by trauma in some way. In this workshop, participants will explore universal and targeted approaches for addressing trauma in schools in order to promote safe, predictable, and healing learning environments. The approaches are grounded in the values of environment, non-judgment, knowledge, relationships, listening, and advocacy.

April

NJ Academy of Science – 71st Annual Conference
Kean University – STEM Building
Saturday, April 11, 2026
9 a.m. - 6 p.m. 
$100

The NJAS executive board cordially invites you to join us in celebrating and fortifying the ongoing projects and collaborations among science, policy, and communication. Our aim is to bolster the infusion of scientific and technical expertise into public discourse and collaborations. During this event, we will emphasize the significance of innovation, resilience, and addressing health disparities challenges, while also marveling at the collective potential within our community to shape a brighter future for New Jersey. This occasion serves as an academic reunion for scholars, corporate professionals, and students alike. Planned activities include keynote addresses, scientific sessions featuring both junior and senior academy members, workshop sessions, and a STEM showcase. We eagerly anticipate your participation in this enriching and collaborative event.

New Jersey New Educator Conference: Trauma-Informed Education in NJ
New Jersey Law Center, One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Wednesday, April 15, 2026  
8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. 
Free

The New Jersey State Bar Foundation’s mission is to provide educator training to promote a positive school climate. This year’s conference will focus on trauma-informed care for both students and educators.

The Role of the School Climate Team
New Jersey Law Center, One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Thursday, April 16, 2026  
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Free

This interactive session is for members of School Climate Teams (SCT) to learn about the important role a school climate team plays in creating and maintaining a positive school climate and provides tips on how to foster such a climate.

Teaching Foundational Skills in Grades 4 Through 12: Word Recognition, Vocabulary, Comprehension and Fluency
Livingston Student Center - 84 Joyce Kilmer Ave, Piscataway, NJ 08854
Thursday, April 16, 2026
9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. 
Onsite Registration Fee: $180

This session focuses on effective strategies for teaching foundational reading skills to readers in grades 4 to 12, including self-efficacy, word recognition, word knowledge, sentence fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and background knowledge. Participants will explore the unique needs of older readers, who often face challenges in decoding, fluency, and comprehension, and learn how to integrate reading support seamlessly with content instruction. Through practical approaches and evidence-based practices, educators will gain tools to boost student engagement, build background knowledge, and foster a positive reading identity, ensuring all students have the skills necessary for academic success.

New Jersey Special Education Summit: Advancing Special Education Through Equity, Innovation, and Collaboration
Foundation for Educational Administration 
12 Centre Dr, Monroe Township, NJ 08831
April 17, 2026 
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 
Ticket Price TBD

This full-day professional development event will provide practical solutions for critical issues in supporting students with disabilities. Keynote presentations and breakout sessions will feature education leaders from New Jersey and nationwide, sharing insights on innovative programming and partnerships to enhance educational outcomes, health, safety, and well-being for our students.

NJEA PDII Transform/Aspiring Educators Conference
Princeton Marriott at Forrestal: 101 College Rd E
Princeton, NJ, United States
April 25, 2026
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
$95 for NJEA members, $170 for nonmembers

TRANSFORM is the premier event for educators who are passionate about creating inclusive and innovative learning environments. Discover professional learning opportunities that empower educators and strengthen public schools. NJEA TRANSFORM offers a full day of programs for educators in instructional practice, special education, hope and healing, technology, and teacher leadership. This conference is being held in partnership with the New Jersey Aspiring Educators Association (NJAEA).

Restorative Justice Conference For Upper Administrators & Project Coordinators
New Jersey Law Center, One Constitution Square, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Tuesday, April 28, 2026  
8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. 
Free

The New Jersey State Bar Foundation recognizes that school and district leaders are important drivers of school climate improvement. NJSBF is hosting a school climate improvement conference to share mindsets, practices and tools adapted for K-12 principals, assistant/vice principals, supervisors, superintendents, and other school and district administrators. 

The Role of the School Climate Team
Virtual  
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
9 a.m. -  noon
Free

This interactive session is for members of School Climate Teams (SCTs) to learn about the important role a school climate team plays in creating and maintaining a positive school climate, and to receive tips on fostering such a climate. Participants can order our Bullying Prevention Guide and relevant posters after the training. This workshop is FREE. 3 Professional Development credits are available to educators who attend the entire workshop.

Supporting Young Scientists: Fostering Discovery in Early Childhood
Virtual
Wednesday, April 29, 2026
4:30 - 6 p.m. 
Free

In this hands-on (but virtual) workshop, we will explore diverse strategies to support science learning for young children both inside the classroom and beyond. Designed for Pre-K and Kindergarten educators, this session highlights developmentally appropriate ways to incorporate science across the daily schedule, from morning routines to outdoor exploration. Participants will engage with a variety of engaging activities that promote curiosity, observation, and investigation using simple materials and real-world contexts. Whether indoors or outside, educators will gain the tools and confidence to create rich, inquiry-based learning experiences that spark children's natural wonder about the world around them.

SEL Webinar: Self Awareness Virtual Training
Virtual
Thursday, April 30, 2026  
9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Free

Self-awareness is the keystone competency for SEL. It’s comprised of an inward understanding of yourself and knowing how others see you. This webinar will take a deep dive into the different components of self-awareness to help educators promote it in themselves and in their students.

May

Tech Tactics In Education May 2026
Virtual  
May 13, 2026
8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Free

Brought to you by the producers of Campus Technology and THE Journal, the May 2026 Tech Tactics in Education conference offers hands-on learning and interactive discussions on the most critical technology issues and practices across K–12 and higher education. Access the latest thinking on AI, cybersecurity, data, ed tech, and other emerging trends impacting education institutions, as well as models for implementation and strategies for effective technology leadership. If you are a technology leader or practitioner in K–12 or higher education, you’ll find valuable information to help guide your institution through current challenges toward a more agile, resilient future.


NJASA/NJAPSA SPRING LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: "Leading, Thriving and Elevating Education in Changing Times"
Caesars, Atlantic City, NJ
May 13-15, 2026 - Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Time: TBD
Ticket prices: $100+

In addition to 40+ well-planned and well-practiced workshops, there will be an Exhibit Hall showcasing the latest tools and best resources available in education. More information TBD.  

NJTESOL 2026 Spring Conference
Hyatt Regency Hotel, New Brunswick
May 19, 20, & 21 – Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday 
7:30 a.m. - 4:30 pm.
Ticket prices: $390-$640

We have three fantastic keynotes scheduled to present at the conference. We have three fantastic keynotes and a full day of presentations. Obtain the latest information on state and national initiatives. Network with other colleagues! Earn PD Hours for each day. Visit the representatives at our Sponsors & Exhibitors booths to find the latest teaching tools starting at 7:30 am when breakfast is served.

Learning Lounge: Introduction to the Framework for Kindergarten Science
Virtual
Thursday May 21, 2026
8:30 - 9:30 a.m. 
Free

Join us for an engaging and collaborative Learning Lounge where educators will dive into the newly released Framework for Kindergarten Science. This informal yet focused session offers participants the opportunity to: Examine the revision(s) to kindergarten performance expectations, explore the structure and content of the resource, discuss how the framework supports the development or adoption of high-quality science instructional materials aligned with the NJSLS-Science, collaborate with peers to share ideas and questions about implementation in diverse classroom settings, reflect on how the framework can enhance student engagement and deepen their ability to make sense of phenomena or design solutions to human problems.

Summer Inclusion Leadership Conference
Kean University 
North Ave Academic Building
1000 Morris Ave, Union, New Jersey 07083
May 28, 2026
8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 
Ticket prices: $75-$125

Engaging sessions for administrators, educators, parents, and self-advocates—all about inclusive education.

Our wide variety of workshops gives attendees the skills and resources they need to develop and sustain inclusive learning communities—for all students.

New Jersey Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators
The College of New Jersey
May 29, 2026
Ticket prices: $185-$215

The New Jersey Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (NJAMTE) is an affiliate of the Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE), a national group that includes education faculty, mathematics faculty, consultants, supervisors, professional developers, graduate students, and others interested in improving mathematics teacher education.

June

Law and Disability Conference
NJLaw Center
1 Constitution Square, New Brunswick
June 8, 2026
9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 
Free

The Law and Disability Conference is held each year at the New Jersey Law Center and is cosponsored with the Community Health Law Project. This year’s conference will cover key issues, including housing, immigration, as well as education and oversight for children with disabilities. This free and informative event addresses issues related to the disabled community and their caregivers.


Learning in the Living Lab: An Educator Workshop for Grades 6-8
NJ School of Conservation
1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston, 07826
June 12 -13, 2026
Ticket price: $45.00 - $95.00

Join us for an immersive Project Learning Tree (PLT) workshop at the New Jersey School of Conservation, designed for educators working with students in grades 6–8. This experiential professional learning opportunity uses the natural setting as a living laboratory to strengthen environmental literacy and engage middle school learners through hands-on, inquiry-based instruction. Participants will explore and implement activities from the Environmental Education Activity Guide for NJ Teachers, with a focus on ecological systems, human–environment interactions, and critical thinking. Educators will practice field investigations, data collection, and collaborative problem-solving while learning strategies to connect environmental concepts to science, social studies, math, and language arts curricula aligned with New Jersey Student Learning and Climate Change Standards.

Summer Music Educators Workshop
Carnegie Hall’s Resnick Education Wing
June 29–July 2, 2026
9:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. 
Ticket price: $75

What does great music teaching in the classroom look like? How can music teachers deepen their artistry, practice inquiry, and become stronger musicians? Join K–12 music educators from across the country to explore these ideas and expand the impact of your work with young musicians. In this workshop, we will reinvigorate your creativity, explore Carnegie Hall’s Great Music Teaching Framework, and invest in your own artistry through music-making opportunities. This four-day workshop will take place in Carnegie Hall’s Resnick Education Wing.

5th Annual New Jersey Forensic Science Education Conference
New Jersey Institute of Technology
June 30, July 1 & 2, 2026 
Ticket price: $500

This year's themes for each day include a special first day for teachers/administrators new to forensics, paralleled by advanced content for experienced teachers. Other themes include analyzing document and video evidence and glass and ballistics, both appropriate for the school setting.  

Morning coffee and lunch, featuring three outstanding professionals as speakers, are included. Time is built in for collaboration facilitated by our highly experienced high school forensics teachers. 

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.