In today’s evolving educational landscape, effective legislative advocacy is an essential skill for local school district leaders. This interactive session is designed specifically for Michigan superintendents, principals, and educational administrators who are committed to amplifying their voice and influence in policy decisions that impact students, staff, and communities.

Participants will gain practical strategies for navigating the legislative process in Michigan, building meaningful relationships with policymakers, and communicating key district priorities with clarity and confidence. The session will explore how to translate local challenges into compelling advocacy messages, align with statewide educational priorities, and engage stakeholders in a unified approach to influencing policy.

Through real-world examples, guided discussion, and skill-building activities, attendees will leave better equipped to:

• Craft clear, persuasive messages for legislators and policymakers

• Build and sustain productive relationships with elected officials

• Advocate effectively for funding, policy changes, and educational initiatives

• Mobilize community voices to support district priorities

Whether you are new to advocacy or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide actionable tools and insights to help you lead with purpose and make a meaningful impact at the state level.

As school districts continue adopting policies related to artificial intelligence, many administrators are now asking an important question: What does implementation actually look like in practice?

This interactive session for school and district administrators will explore how educational leaders can move from AI policy language to practical implementation within their schools and districts. Drawing on resources and statewide learning from Michigan Virtual’s AI Lab and Michigan’s Statewide AI Workgroup, the session will focus on the leadership decisions, guidance, and systems needed to support responsible AI use.

Participants will discuss common implementation challenges, including staff expectations, student use, handbook guidance, instructional practices, communication, oversight, and alignment with local district context. The session will include facilitated discussion, practical examples, collaborative problem-solving, and work time designed to help administrators identify next steps for their own districts.

This engaging session is designed for educational leaders across all roles—Superintendents, Principals, Deans, Athletic Directors, and other administrators—who are committed to supporting students both academically and through athletics. Participants will gain fresh perspectives on their work, exploring how their leadership intersects with student experiences in meaningful ways.

Attendees can expect an informative and productive experience that fosters both personal reflection and professional growth. The session will provide practical insights and new ways of thinking that can be applied immediately, empowering leaders to enhance their effectiveness and impact in their daily roles. Whether you are deeply connected to athletics or support students in broader capacities, this session offers valuable strategies to strengthen your leadership and better serve your school community.