Amid Changing Political Climate, An Unwavering Commitment to Students 

Key Takeaways from the 2025 National Conference on Education 

By Brennan LaBrie 

The 2025 National Conference on Education brought together over 3,000 K-12 education leaders to New Orleans to discuss pressing issues, trends, and opportunities in the education space, and to swap insights and strategies for supporting student success. 

This year’s theme centered on developing a “clear vision for the future of public education.” Underlaying these conversations was an acknowledgement of the uncertainty facing education, and public education in particular, under the Trump administration.  

A Focus on Student Success

However, one thing was made abundantly clear throughout the panels, presentations, roundtables and hallway conversations: Despite today’s complex political climate, education leaders remain focused on their students.  

In fact, a palpable energy rippled through the convention halls, as district leads affirmed their commitments to executing their strategic plans and boosting student outcomes. During a tumultuous time in education, many superintendents are embracing the opportunity to step up as leaders, demonstrate resilience in the face of uncertainty, and cultivate high-performing yet inclusive school environments.  

The superintendents agreed that, while the language used to describe their work might require some adjustments, the work itself remains the same.  

The same goes for EOS: We will continue to foster access to educational opportunities, academic success, and postsecondary outcomes for all students, in those terms or otherwise.  

Other key themes from the conference: 

Promoting College and Career Readiness  

Across the country, school and district leaders are aligned on one major goal: Preparing their students for success in college and the workforce.  

Boosting student outcomes in high school like grades, test scores and advanced course enrollment sets students up for better post-secondary outcomes, but it also provides the foundation of soft and hard skills students will need when they join the workforce.  

Many districts have also implemented creative Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to give students hands-on experience in a wide variety of professional fields, and provide some a head start on their future vocation. Work-Based Learning programs bring in community partners for internship and apprenticeship opportunities.  

A great example of an innovative approach to this practice is Anchorage School District, an EOS partner, which offers CTE programs in over 14 job fields in partnership with local businesses and organizations.  

Improving School Community  

Another hot topic of discussion was enhancing school and classroom communities so that all students feel a sense of belonging. Students who thrive in school, and especially rigorous courses, are those who feel seen, valued and supported. For students who have been historically overlooked, these conditions are often not met. 

Many panelists echoed what EOS holds as a central tenant of our work: That focusing on student belonging is the starting point for addressing some of the most pressing issues in education, including:  

• Social emotional learning  

• Student mental health  

• Enrollment gaps in advanced courses 

• Cronic absenteeism and recidivism  

Learn about how EOS helps schools cultivate student belonging here.

Leveraging AI and Emerging Technologies for Student Success

AASA predicted that this years’ conference would focus heavily on AI and its endless possibilities (and challenges) for educators. They were correct.  

Many sessions offered insight and strategies for forward-thinking educators looking to integrate AI into their schools in a safe and responsible manner. The big question posed: How can AI be used to optimize teaching and improve learning while also ensuring academic integrity and student safety? 

EOS is tackling this question in our next webinar, in which we will discuss how education leaders and nonprofits can implement AI tech in a way that aligns with their missions and keeps students at the center of the conversation. Learn more here.

Brennan LaBrie helps amplify the work, mission, and impact of the EOS team and our partners across the education landscape. With a background in local journalism, he seeks to share the stories of individuals and organizations driving impact in their community and beyond.