The NCAIS is a conference dedicated to fostering dialogue and collaboration among presenters and attendees regarding inclusive practices across the lifespan. By uniting individuals with exceptionalities and varied learning needs, practitioners (e.g., teachers, administrators, related service providers, community-based service providers), families, advocates, policymakers, community leaders, researchers, students, and other relevant parties, the Summit provides a platform to discuss current practices, share innovative strategies, and explore the future of inclusivity for all underrepresented groups.

Networking Opportunities:

• • Connect with a diverse array of caregivers/guardians, professionals and organizations committed to inclusion, creating potential partnerships that can amplify efforts within communities.

  • Build a supportive network that fosters ongoing collaboration beyond the Summit.

Knowledge Sharing:

• • Gain insights from experts and practitioners in the field who share best practices, success stories, and lessons learned.

  • Participate in workshops and panels that explore the latest evidence-based practices and innovations in equity, accessibility, and belonging.

Strategic Collaboration:

• • Engage in meaningful discussions that drive collective action toward creating inclusive environments.

  • Explore cross-sector collaborations that leverage unique strengths and resources to address systemic barriers faced by underrepresented groups.

Empowerment and Advocacy:

• • Learn strategies to advocate for policies and practices that promote equity and accessibility at local, state, and national levels.

  • Equip yourself with tools to drive change within your organization and community, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.

Inspiration for Future Innovations:

• • Discover emerging ideas and technologies that enhance equity, accessibility, and inclusivity.

  • Participate in brainstorming sessions aimed at addressing challenges and identifying solutions that can be implemented in various contexts.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement:

• • Foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement by sharing feedback and experiences, promoting accountability in efforts towards inclusion.

The North Carolina Inclusion Summit is more than just a conference; it is a catalyst for meaningful change. By bringing together passionate individuals and organizations, the summit plays a crucial role in shaping a future where success and belonging are prioritized for all. Join us in advancing the mission of inclusivity and ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background or abilities, has the opportunity to thrive.

Date:

• September 26th, 2026 

Location: 

• Appalachian State University, Reich College of Education 

Address: 

• 151 College St, Boone, NC 28608

Brief Schedule Outline

Registration rates: 

• Early Bird Registration (Ends 7/31/2026)- $45

• Early Bird Registration (CEC or TASH Member- Ends 7/31/2026): $40

• Regular Rate (starting 8/1/2026)- $75

• Regular Rate (CEC or TASH Member-starting 8/1/2026)- $70

• Teacher/Administrator Rate- $30

• Confirmed Presenters- $30 

• Confirmed Family Presenters - Free 

• Student (Undergraduate/Graduate/School-Age)- $15

• Family Member-$25 

• Inquire about discounts for groups of 5 or more from the same organization

*There are a limited number of potential family/child scholarships available through ECAC. Please contact Aimee Combs, Executive Director (acombs@ecacmail.org) for additional information.
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**Registration Process**

To register for this year's conference please go here. 

**Exhibitor Registration** 

We invite exhibitors to participate in this year's conference. By doing so, you are connecting with diverse audiences of educators, administrators, community members, families, and students; showcasing your products and services to key decision-makers in the education sector; demonstrating your company's commitment to education issues; and contributing to the professional growth of educators, policy makers, advocates, and individuals with exceptionalities and their loved ones. Please see below for registration and pricing information.

We will have resource fair with lunch provided for participants to have dedicated time to browse the Vendors/Exhibitors. 

Vendor/Exhibitor Tables (Resource Fair): 

For two people: 

• Vendor/Exhibitor fee: $40

Sponsorship levels: All sponsorships include recognition of your support using your logo on our website, in our digital program and on a visual sponsor board posted in the meal area

• Breakfast: $1000 (sponsorships available)

• Break: $500 (sponsorship available)

• Lunch: $2000 (sponsorships available)

To register, please please take a few moments to (a) complete the exhibitor form linked here and (b) provide payment via the electronic registration page, select VENDOR. 

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Photography and Media Consent Agreement

• By submitting your proposal and/or agreeing to participate in this conference, you acknowledge and consent to being photographed during the event. You grant the conference organizers permission to use your likeness, in the form of photographs or video recordings, for promotional purposes, including but not limited to the conference website, social media channels, and future marketing materials.

• If you are uncomfortable with being photographed, please notify the event organizers in advance. Your participation in the conference will not be affected by such a request. However, without such notification, you consent to the use of your image as described above.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Hotel Information:

• There are many hotels available in the Boone Area. All rooms must be booked by the individual party. 

• Local hotel options linked here.

Transportation options: 

• Drive and park on campus

• The Appalcart may also provide transportation to the university depending on where you are staying. You can use Google maps to search for routes, more information Appalcart here. 

Recommendations of local attractions: 

• Boone is a wonderful place to visit in the fall, there are many free activities all around and beautiful places to walk or drive to see amazing views! 

• See this site for information all things related to exploring Boone! 

  • Explore Boone  

Participants at this event are eligible to receive continuing education units (CEUs) or contact towards professional certification. If you would like to participate in these opportunities, there will be something sent to you to fill out after the conference. 

If you have questions regarding the conference, please contact this year's 

Co-Event Coordinators Dr. Kelly Clark & Dr. Susan Aigotti at inclusionsummit@gmail.com