25 Must-Attend Education Conferences for Teachers in New Jersey

As the summer comes to an end, it's time for New Jersey teachers to start planning for the upcoming school year. What better way to prepare than by registering for professional development workshops? 

Across the state, education organizations have planned a variety of learning events for the fall. Since Rutgers Alternate Route is committed to supporting New Jersey teachers in their professional growth and providing them with the tools they need to excel in their classrooms, we've made it easy for New Jersey teachers to identify PD opportunities for the upcoming teaching season. We have curated a list of 25 must-attend education conferences for teachers in New Jersey, hosted by state-based professional associations, local universities, and grassroots education groups.

Whether you're interested in instructional strategies, leadership development, or exploring new teaching methods, you'll find something that suits your budget, schedule, and professional interests. Some of the events may require a financial investment from your district, but we have included options that are accessible to educators with varying budgets.

Human Trafficking 101
Price: Free
Date: Sept 1, 2023, 1 – 3:00 p.m. & Oct 9, 2023, 9 – 11 a.m.
Location: Zoom

Keeping young people safe is important, so the New Jersey Coalition Against Human Trafficking is addressing this pervasive societal ill through a professional development event designed to support Health and PE teachers in New Jersey. While the event is specifically targeting Health and PE teachers, other interested teachers and school administrators are welcome to attend. Participants will receive training that will cover human trafficking basics, providing them with essential knowledge and resources to address this critical issue. The event will also showcase lesson plans created by survivors and NJ teachers, offering practical tools and strategies to meet NJ Learning Standards while addressing these important topics.
 

Holocaust and Genocide Educator Workshops
Price: Free
Date: September 6, 2023 - December 6, 2023
Location: Zoom and Gross Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies, Ramapo, NJ

The Gross Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies provides valuable opportunities for educators to deepen their understanding of the Holocaust and genocide, learn effective teaching strategies, and connect with other professionals in the field. By attending these workshops, educators can enhance their knowledge and skills, ultimately benefiting their students and the broader community.  The format and theme of the workshops vary with most offered as Zoom events and some organized day-long in-person conferences like the Holocaust and Genocide Educator Workshop “Why Study the Holocaust Now?” scheduled for December 6, 2023. Mark your calendar for these important sessions for which professional development credits are available for participants.
 

Creating Equity Through the Arts
Price: Free
Date: September 23, 2023, noon – 1:30 pm 
Location: Zoom

Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the power of the Arts in promoting equity and inclusion in education. The Arts provide a unique opportunity to give positive representation to diverse populations and create a learning environment where every student feels included and valued. By attending this session, educators will gain insights into how to create an inclusive art room, where the needs of all students are considered and actively included in the classroom environment and curriculum. Register now for this online session and discover how to create meaningful and relevant learning experiences for all students.

Understanding HIB Characteristics
Price: Free 
Date: September 28, 2023, 9:00 a.m. – noon
Location: Zoom 

Maintaining a bully-free classroom environment is not just desirable; it's required. Provided by the New Jersey State Bar Foundation, this workshop will help educators meet this requirement. In this workshop, educators will have the opportunity to enhance their ability to identify and address harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) incidents effectively. Participants will explore specific HIB language, the difference between conflict and bullying, and how to prevent HIB by preventing bias. In addition, they will improve their ability to identify certain characteristics when completing HIB (Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying) reports and gain valuable knowledge and skills that can be applied in their professional roles to create safer and more inclusive learning environments for students.
 

8th Annual Early Childhood Conference
Price: Free
Date: October 9, 2023, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Swedesboro Holiday Inn, Swedesboro NJ

Join the Rutgers Southern Regional Child Care Resource and Referral Agency for a day of rediscovering the joys of childhood at their upcoming conference, ideal for all early childhood professionals who serve children and families in South Jersey. The conference will feature engaging activities, conversations, and reflections designed to help you play, reimagine, and re-engage with your inner child. Dress comfortably for the day's activities and come prepared to learn and have fun. This is a great opportunity to connect with other early childhood educators and gain fresh ideas and insights to participate in and facilitate the highest quality professional development. Don't miss out on this chance to support kindergarten readiness for all children and build a strong start and a bright future for our community. Register now and get ready to rediscover the joys of childhood!

Social Emotional Character Development
Price: Free 
Date: October 11, 2023,  9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: New Jersey Law Center, New Brunswick, NJ 08901

It is essential for educators to foster an environment that not only prioritizes academic excellence but also champions the emotional and social well-being of students. This training provided by the New Jersey State Bar Foundation 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. Participants won't merely receive theoretical insights; they'll be equipped with practical strategies to implement into their daily classroom practices. Educators will learn to incorporate these core SEL concepts into the classroom through lessons, journaling and habits.
 

NJPSA/FEA/NJASCD Fall Conference
Pricing: $198 & Up
Location:  Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Atlantic City, NJ
Date: October 11 – 13, 2023

If you're committed to making excellence happen, do not miss the chance to join NJPSA, NJASCD and hundreds of principals and supervisors from across the state for this premier gathering of school leaders. Hear from dynamic keynote presenters like New Jersey’s own Baruti Kafele and indulge in the numerous training sessions and plentiful networking opportunities planned for this in-person event.  There are a variety of registration options to make attending possible. Select your preference and get ready to make excellence happen in your school community!
 

Northeast Tech & Learning Regional Leadership Summit
Price: Free
Date: October 13, 2023, 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Location: Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center, New Brunswick, NJ

Calling Instructional and Tech District Leaders, CAOs, Superintendents and other district decision-makers for the Tech & Learning Regional Leadership Summit. Hosted at Rutgers-New Brunswick, the event creates opportunities for leaders to share ideas, best practices, and solutions to reshape and reimagine the future of education. The summit is free to attend and promises inspiring and actionable sessions and networking opportunities to build your professional network. As an added bonus, Tech & Learning will cover a two-night hotel stay at Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center for all approved district administrators who register by September 22, 2023. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of the conversation and help shape the future of education. Register now for the Tech & Learning Regional Leadership Summits and start reimagining education for the better.
 

Educators’ Open House - NJ School of Conservation
Price: $20 (with refund after attending)
Date: October 16, 2023, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: 1 Wapalanne Road, Sandyston,  NJ

Don't miss out on this chance to learn, network, and have fun at the NJ School of Conservation. Attending the Open House provides a great opportunity to learn about the NJ School of Conservation's programs and resources, connect with other educators, and gain new ideas for your own teaching. Teachers get to participate in several of the most popular field experiences, including Nature Art & Poetry with a climate change emphasis, Metalsmithing, Water Ecology, Archery, smore-making, and more fun activities. Register now for the Educators' Open House and discover the possibilities of outdoor education for students.

New Jersey Science Convention
Price: $150- $230 
Date: Tuesday, October 17, 2023 – Wednesday, October 18, 2023 
Location: Princeton Marriott at Forrestal, Princeton, NJ

The New Jersey Science Convention provides a forum for educators to meet, collaborate, and formulate new ideas to support science education. Coordinated annually by the New Jersey Science Teachers Association and New Jersey Science Education Leadership Association, this two-day learning adventure offers a wide variety of sessions of interest for educators in all levels and disciplines of science. Sessions will focus on demonstrating methods of creating culturally responsive science classrooms that promote equity and inclusion, engaging students in studies of climate change through research, discourse, and problem-solving, and exploring local problems. In addition, a modest number of vendors of science books, supplies, and equipment will also be in attendance.  
 

6th Annual New Jersey Convening for Diversifying the Teacher Workforce
Price: Free
Date: October 17 and 24, 2023, 4 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. | November 2, 2023, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Zoom and Georgian Court University, Lakewood, NJ

New Jersey's Convening for Diversifying the Teacher Workforce is back for a 6th year, and its host this year is Georgian Court University. Similar to last year, the event will be a hybrid offering starting with two virtual sessions and culminating in a day-long in-person session on November 2. This year's theme is "Retaining a Diverse Workforce: Teachers are Talking. Are You Listening?" The event aims to elevate our collective understanding of what it takes to create and sustain a teacher workforce that reflects the cultural and linguistic diversity of New Jersey students.

Title: Association of Math Teachers of NJ (AMTNJ)
Price: $185.00 (members), $215.00 (non-members)
Date: October 20, 2023, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Brookdale Community College Lincroft, NJ

The AMTNJ 2023 conference brings together educators, scholars, and mathematics enthusiasts for a deep dive into the latest trends, research, and best practices in mathematics education. This annual event aims to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and equip educators with the tools and knowledge they need to enhance mathematics teaching and learning in the state. Attendees can expect a mix of interactive workshops, insightful keynote presentations, and ample networking opportunities to connect with peers and experts in the field. In addition to their conference, AMTNJ is also extending free annual memberships for any undergraduate or graduate students who are planning to work, or already work as a mathematics teacher, a special education teacher who supports mathematics, or an elementary school teacher.

NJ Council for the Social Studies Conference
Price: $90-100
Date: Monday, October 23, 2023
Location: Busch Student Center at Rutgers

The New Jersey Council for the Social Studies (NJCSS) prides itself on its transformative objective and notable achievement of uniting educators across the spectrum of social studies disciplines. A major goal and accomplishment of the NJCSS is to bring together professionals from all social studies disciplines, including history, economics, political science, etc. to promote the significance of the subject. Collectively members of NJCSS strive to deepen their understanding of social studies and amplify its pivotal role in shaping well-informed individuals. These individuals, in turn, are better equipped to navigate and meaningfully process the complexities of these spheres of life as well as be able to teach students these ideas as well. Join in this professional adventure by attending the NCSS Fall Conference!

NJASA and NJASBO Annual Conference
Pricing: $550 per person 
Date: October 23 – 26, 2023
Location: Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, NJ

NJASA and NJASBO are hosting their annual conference this coming October with the theme of Today's Students Tomorrow's Superheroes. With their return to Atlantic City, the slot machines and blackjack tables are back, too. That means you can once again bet on an amazing professional learning and networking experience. As with every year, this year’s conference promises to support the creation and expansion of achievement opportunities for all students. The conference will offer training, networking and events for district leaders, school technology professionals, school facilities managers and staff, and curriculum professionals.  
 

World Language Teacher Summit - Fall 2023
Pricing: Free
Date: October 23 – 27, 2023
Location: Zoom

The World Language Teacher Summit is happening again this year. If it's anything like last year's summit, it's sure to be a memorable and meaningful learning experience for educators. Not only is this event free, it's accessible from anywhere because it's offered online. You'll get to watch and learn from dozens of World Language educators and log off equipped with tools, ideas, and strategies to use immediately in your class. If you don't already have your free ticket, be sure to visit the registration site today.

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics 
Price: $261 - $310 
Date: October 25 –28, 2023
Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC

Math lovers everywhere have been waiting for this premier event for math educators. Whether you're new to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) or a seasoned veteran, there is something for you at the conference. Learn about all the new, innovative practices and resources this year's meeting is showcasing while networking with other attendees. Get a head start on the conference experience by learning to navigate presentations and use the conference app prior to attending.  
 

Foreign Language Educators of NJ (FLENJ) (Strategies to Build Relationships and Create a Positive Classroom Community)
Price: $40
Date: October 26, 2023;  8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location:  NJPSA,  Monroe Twp, NJ

This year’s conference theme is Strategies to Build Relationships and Create a Positive Classroom Community. Participants will explore simple, straightforward strategies to authentically incorporate social and emotional learning (SEL) tasks into their current practice - all without the stress of adding one more thing to their plate. Things feel different in the post-pandemic classroom, and the strategies presented will help to promote a happier, more connected classroom. World Language teachers want their students to feel good when they leave their classes, and the positive interactions students have with each other in the target language should help.  Participants should expect to experience strategies, reflect on how they fit into their current practice, and leave prepared to implement them in their very next lesson. Participants will also leave with editable templates and handouts to help them build a deeper and stronger sense of community.

Reading Strategies: Essential Teaching for Every Classroom
Price: $180
Date: October 26, 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Rutgers Busch Student Center, Piscataway, NJ

Reading with accuracy and fluency is a critical component of reading instruction, and this session will provide educators with the necessary tools and strategies to support reading development for their students. This session is ideal for educators who teach beginning reading or support older struggling readers. In addition to actionable strategies that you can implement immediately, participants also receive free resources they can use to support their teaching. No teacher should miss out on this opportunity to enhance their literacy teaching practice and support their students' reading success.

Arts Educators of New Jersey
Price: $150 - $300
Date: October 30 - 31, 2023; 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Hyatt Regency New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ

The annual Arts Educators of New Jersey (AENJ) Fall Conference is back, and this year's focus is on the captivating world of creativity and exploration in education. The theme, Making the Invisible Visible, celebrates the power of art to unveil hidden perspectives, amplify unheard voices, and shed light on agency in the art room. The conference will feature inspiring keynotes, special guests, and smaller hands-on workshops. Several best practice lectures, hands-on workshops, pre-service student roundtables, and informational sessions will be held on varied topics such as the new NJSLS, student engagement, curriculum, dealing with teacher burnout and assessment, diversity, equity, and inclusion, SEL, wellness, and mental health, and supporting all learners. Led by AENJ members and other educational leaders, these sessions will provide practical strategies and ideas that educators can implement in their classrooms. Attendees will also have the chance to connect with other educators, share ideas, and gain new insights and strategies to enhance their teaching practice. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore the power of art in education and connect with other educators.
 

NJ Association of Middle L Educators
Price: Students: $99-$149; Professionals: $449-$549
Date: November 1 – 4, 2023 
Location:  National Harbor, MD

NJ Association for Middle School Educators (NJAMLE) is spreading the word about the fall conference sponsored by its national affiliate AMLE. This premier event for teachers of grades 4 - 8 helps teachers find effective strategies and emerging trends in middle grades math, science, ELA, social studies, arts, physical education, and exploratory courses. Participants gain tools to support the social and emotional needs of their students and enhance their executive functioning skills while expanding their understanding of young adolescent development. If you've ever wondered about evidence-based middle-grade practices like advisory, interdisciplinary instruction, teaming, project-based learning, and responsive scheduling, this is the event for you. And here's a bonus...AMLE offers free membership to early career educators who teach students aged 10 -15!
 

New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) Convention 2023
Date: November 9 – November 10, 2023
Location:  Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City NJ

Why has Spike Lee agreed to keynote the NJEA Convention? Find out by attending. The convention will offer more than 300 professional development seminars, workshops, and programs designed to help teachers and educational support professionals hone their skills and stay current in their subject areas and chosen fields. In addition to teachers and other certified staff, NJEA also counts among its members educational support professionals, college students preparing to become teachers, faculty and staff from the state's community colleges, retired educators, and etc. If you fit any of these categories, Do the Right Thing and plan to attend the NJEA Convention!
 

ACTFL 2023 Convention and World Languages Expo
Price: $150-250
Date: November 17-19, 2023
Location:  Chicago, IL

Hosted by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL), this vibrant annual gathering welcomes over 7,000 attendees from around the globe, creating an unparalleled platform for professional growth and collaboration. In the 2023 Chicago event, educators will benefit from more than 500 enlightening sessions and workshops, offering insights into the latest teaching concepts and best practices. Participants will also get to interact with over 165 exhibitors showcasing innovative publications, products, and services, including interactive zones like the social media lounge, Career Café, etc. Whether you're looking for fresh teaching ideas, seeking collaboration, or aiming to discover the latest in language teaching technology, this convention promises a plethora of opportunities. It's not just a conference; it's a celebration of the world language teaching profession. See you in Chicago for an immersive, energetic, and enlightening experience!
 

EdCampNJ 2023
Price: Free
Date: November 18, 2023
Location: New Brunswick High School, New Brunswick, NJ

Description: EdcampNJ is back! While there are many education conferences and events in New Jersey, EdcampNJ stands out for its participant-driven approach and focus on empowering educators to lead their own learning. This event offers an exciting opportunity to connect, collaborate, and learn as an active participant in your own professional development. If you've been teaching one year or 30 years, you can lead a session and contribute to the collective knowledge and growth of the education community in New Jersey. Mark your calendar and be part of this engaging conference that puts educators at the forefront of their professional growth.


2023 Annual Learning Forward Conference
Price: $40
Date: December 3-6, 2023
Location:  Washington, DC

Following the pandemic, it is essential we move forward. Why not begin by planning forward and attending this year’s Annual Learning Forward Conference?  The conference invites all educators to join colleagues, inspiring practitioners, and online thought leaders to learn new strategies and methods that can be implemented in the classroom to further connect with students. Learn from well-known educators like Chris Emdin, this year’s keynote, how to address the most pressing issues for education leaders including improving virtual and in-person instruction, social-emotional learning, culturally responsive pedagogy and more. Don't miss out on this opportunity to be part of the conversation that helps public education in our nation learn forward.

Comprehension Development through Social and Emotional Learning to Leverage Student Identity
Price: $180 
Date: December 6, 2023, 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. 
Location: Rutgers Busch Student Center, Piscataway, NJ 

Join the Rutgers Center for Literacy Development at a day-long professional learning event featuring Sara Ahmed, experienced educator and author of Being the Change--a book that focuses on developing skills and habits to comprehend social issues related to race, gender politics, religion, sexuality, and more. During this session, Sara will provide clear, transferrable lessons and practical strategies that help students develop critical comprehension skills, ask difficult yet important questions, express their thoughts, and engage respectfully in tough conversations. Sign up for this important event and learn to create habitats of trust where both kids and adults can make their thinking visible and cultivate empathy.
 

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 or sign up for Alternate Route’s monthly newsletter for more information and stories from the field of education.