MONDAY, AUGUST 26

12:00 – 5:00pm: EXHIBITORS SET-UP

Kick off your experience by setting up your exhibit space on August 26th. Our team will be available to assist with your setup to ensure everything is ready for the summit. Exhibitor registration opens at 12:00 PM, with setup available until 5:00 PM. This is your chance to create an inviting and impactful display to connect with educators and industry leaders throughout the event. (Congaree B)

12:00 – 5:00pm: EARLY REGISTRATION & SWAG BAG PICKUP

Attend early registration to beat the rush on Tuesday morning. Pick up your conference materials and swag bags, and take the opportunity to network with fellow attendees and settle into the conference environment. Enjoy the convenience of having everything you need before the official start of the summit. (Lobby)

6:00 – 8:00pm: KICKOFF RECEPTION

The reception will serve as a prelude to our summit as we engage in meaningful dialogue, establish connections, and help shape the future of education in South Carolina. Please join us for an evening of appetizers, refreshments, and stimulating conversation, accompanied by the vibrant music entertainment of Chris Hopkins and the Soul Sessions. This setting provides a perfect backdrop for networking and setting the tone for the summit. (Lower Lobby)

TUESDAY, AUGUST 27

7:30 – 9:00am: REGISTRATION & LIGHT BREAKFAST

Check-in and get your name tag and swag bag, have some coffee and bagels, and start chatting people up! (Main Hallway & Lobby)

9:00 – 9:30am: GREETINGS

Kick off the LIFE2 Promising Practices Summit by exploring the transformative impact of the LIFE2 TSL Grant in Calhoun and Orangeburg County School Districts. This session will highlight key lessons, best practices, and innovative strategies that have successfully improved teacher recruitment, certification, and student outcomes. Join us as we set the stage for a day of impactful learning and collaboration! (Congaree A)

9:30 – 10:30am: KEYNOTE

Join us as Hayward Jean, Director of Student Services for Orangeburg County School District and award-winning former principal, shares his remarkable journey of transforming schools and empowering youth. With a legacy of turning an “F” rated school into an “A” rating in just one year, Hayward brings unparalleled insights into leadership, education, and community impact. Don’t miss this inspiring keynote from a true advocate for change in education. (Congaree A)

10:40 – 12:00pm: CLASS TO ACTION PANEL DISCUSSION

Moderated by Dr. J. R. Green, Superintendent of Fairfield County School District, this panel will bring together superintendents, state legislators, and top educators for a critical discussion on the future of education. With over 30 years of experience in K-12 education, Dr. Green will guide this conversation on driving meaningful change, sharing insights on leadership, innovation, and strategies for success. Engage with leaders who are shaping the educational landscape and be part of this powerful dialogue!

• Dr. J. R. Green, Green Team Consulting (Moderator)
• Full list coming soon…

This session will conclude with an open dialogue and discussion, offering attendees the opportunity to engage with and learn from these influential voices in education. (Congaree A)

12:00 – 1:30pm: LUNCH & SPECIAL PRESENTATION – CALL ME MISTER 

Enjoy lunch and a special presentation by the Call Me Misters program. This session provides valuable insights into this influential initiative. Music entertainment by Chris Hopkins and the Soul Sessions will enhance the atmosphere. (Congaree A)

12:00 – 12:30pm: PRESENTATIONS

Celebrate excellence in education at our Teacher Awards Presentation! Join us as we honor outstanding educators who have made significant impacts in their classrooms and communities. This special ceremony will recognize their dedication, achievements, and contributions to student success. Don’t miss this inspiring moment of recognition and appreciation for the heroes of our education system. (Congaree A)

1:30 – 3:30pm: SHOW TIME HIGHLIGHTS

Experience highlights from our partners showcasing their impactful programs:

1. Coastal Carolina Call Me MiSTER Program
2. Morris CollegeCall Me MiSTER Program
3. SC State UniversityCall Me MiSTER Program
4. Calhoun County School District
5. Orangeburg County School District

This session highlights the advancements and initiatives driving educational excellence in these districts. (Congaree A)

3:30pm: DOOR PRIZES

End the day with exciting door prize giveaways. Celebrate the contributions and participation of attendees with a chance to win fabulous prizes. (Congaree A)

EXHIBIT HALL HOURS: 9:00am – 4:00pm

The Exhibit Hall will be open throughout the day, offering a range of educational products and services. Connect with vendors and discover new tools and resources to enhance your educational practices. (Congaree B)

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28

8:00 – 9:00am: REGISTRATION, LIGHT BREAKFAST, & NETWORKING

Join us outside the ballroom for coffee and a continental breakfast. Use this time to network with fellow attendees and prepare for the day’s engaging sessions. Registration will remain open for newcomers needing to sign up. (Main Hallway & Lobby)

9:00 – 9:50am: SESSION I

Choose from among nine exciting sessions led by people doing extraordinary work in dialogue, deliberation, and public engagement. (Breakout Rooms)

10:00 – 10:50am: SESSION II

Choose from among nine exciting sessions led by people doing extraordinary work in dialogue, deliberation, and public engagement. (Breakout Rooms)

10:50 – 11:20am: EXHIBITOR FAIR

Visit the Exhibit Hall and interact with vendors showcasing the latest educational tools and services. Discover new resources that can be integrated into your professional practice. (Congaree B)

11:20 – 11:50pm: LUNCH  

Enjoy a delicious lunch, providing a perfect opportunity to network and engage with a variety of vendors showcasing the latest educational tools and resources. Take this time to connect with peers, discover new solutions, and recharge for the afternoon sessions. (Congaree A)

11:50 – 12:50pm: KEYNOTE WITH MICHAEL BONNER

Join us for a special keynote featuring Michael Bonner, an acclaimed leader and keynote speaker. As CEO of Bonnerville and a prominent figure at the Ron Clark Academy, Michael will share transformative insights on leadership and positive organizational culture. (Congaree A)

12:50 – 1:20pm: PRESENTATIONS, DOOR PRIZES AND REMARKS

Celebrate the achievements of outstanding educators with special awards presentations. Engage in a lively session filled with door prizes and closing remarks that wrap up the morning’s sessions, setting the stage for the afternoon’s activities.(Congaree A)

1:30 – 2:20pm: SESSION III

Choose from among nine exciting sessions to engage in specialized topics tailored to address current challenges and innovative solutions in education. This session will provide actionable insights and foster discussions on enhancing teaching methods and strategies. (Breakout Rooms)

2:30 – 3:20pm: SESSION IV

Choose from among seven exciting sessions to engage in specialized topics tailored to address current challenges and innovative solutions in education. This session will provide actionable insights and foster discussions on enhancing teaching methods and strategies. (Breakout Rooms)

EXHIBIT HALL HOURS: 9:00am – 4:00pm

The Exhibit Hall will be open throughout the day, offering a range of educational products and services. Connect with vendors and discover new tools and resources to enhance your educational practices. (Congaree B)

SPECIAL NOTES:

1. Attendees can earn 6 hours of recertification credit for each day (Tuesday and Wednesday) of participation at the summit.