EduCon 2027

When students struggle academically, behaviorally, or socially, schools often respond by asking what additional support the student needs. But what happens when we turn the lens toward ourselves and ask: What adult practices, instructional decisions, or systems may be contributing to the challenge?

This conversation invites educators and school leaders to examine the connection between adult practice and student outcomes. Together, participants will explore how the quality and consistency of Tier 1 instruction, professional expectations, communication, family engagement, collaboration, intervention practices, and school culture can either remove barriers for students or unintentionally create them.

Rather than approaching this as a conversation about blame, participants will consider how schools can create cultures of collective responsibility in which adults feel supported while also being accountable for examining and strengthening their practice. Participants from different roles and school levels will be encouraged to share experiences, identify common systemic challenges, and learn from one another.

The conversation will challenge us to shift from simply asking, “What is wrong with this student?” to also asking, “What can we change about the environment, instruction, support, or adult practice surrounding this student?”

Participants will leave with practical strategies for strengthening adult collaboration, examining instructional and systemic barriers, engaging in difficult professional conversations, and keeping student needs at the center of decision-making.