Why Educators Return to the Learning Forward Texas Conference Every Summer

Collaborative. Practical. Impactful.

That’s how educators describe the Learning Forward Texas Conference—and it’s easy to see why.

Every summer, educators from across Texas—and across roles—gather for something more than just a conference. The Learning Forward Texas Annual Conference is designed for those who lead professional learning, offering a space that’s both energizing and reflective, innovative and practical.

To bring this post to life, we reached out to presenters, past participants, and longtime attendees to hear how the experience has shaped their work. Their words confirm what many of us already know: this conference is a must-attend for anyone passionate about designing learning that leads to lasting change.

A Place Designed for You

It can be difficult to find a conference that truly speaks to the work of those who lead professional learning. Most conferences are built around content areas, educational technology, or classroom instruction. But the Learning Forward Texas Conference is different—it’s intentionally designed for educators who develop other educators.

This focused audience includes instructional, curriculum, and edtech coaches; campus and district leaders; and anyone responsible for designing, facilitating, or supporting adult learning experiences. The sessions, speakers, and networking opportunities are all built with this group in mind.

Annice Garza, Director of Professional Learning in Los Fresno CISD says, “It’s one of the few conferences that truly supports those who lead adult learning. It offers practical strategies, meaningful connections, and innovative ideas that you can apply immediately to your work.”

For many attendees, LFTX is the only professional learning experience of the year that’s tailored specifically to the unique challenges and opportunities of adult learning. It offers a rare chance to network with others who share similar roles and responsibilities—and to return home with new energy and applicable strategies.

This is the one conference where I can concentrate on growing my skills as a leader of adult learning.  It allows me to fill my bucket with new and innovative ideas that I can bring back to my district and incorporate into the learning sessions we provide. Natalie Gray, Northside ISD Director of Professional Learning and recent LFTX Award winner

At its core, the conference is about empowering those who empower others. Whether you’re designing districtwide initiatives or supporting teachers one-on-one, LFTX offers the kind of focused, relevant learning that helps you grow in your role—and lead more confidently in the year ahead.

Relevant, High-Quality Learning

Every session at LFTX is designed with purpose. Attendees don’t just hear about new ideas—they gain insights and tools that directly apply to their work as learning leaders. Whether you’re supporting new teachers, designing district wide professional development, or leading instructional coaching efforts, you’ll find sessions that speak to your role and reflect the current landscape of professional learning.

Session offerings are grounded in real practice and are led by educators and thought leaders who understand the complexities of professional learning. Crisha Lewis, a frequent conference attendee and presenter, described how implementation science strategies reshaped the way their district integrates evidence-based programs—shifting their systems to be more inclusive and teacher-centered. A phrase from that session, “Nothing about us without us,” continues to guide their work today.

The format of the conference itself is also designed for deeper learning. Unlike many conferences with back-to-back 45-minute presentations, LFTX offers extended sessions that allow participants to engage in meaningful learning, reflection, and planning.

In last year’s interview with Joellen Killion, she shared that she appreciated this about the LFTX conference. “I love that conferences come at a time in summer when people are unencumbered by their work responsibilities, and their minds are a little freer and a little more open.”

That timing matters. With space to think, participants can explore not just what they learn—but what it means and how it will impact others.

This year’s sessions will cover a wide range of timely topics, including:

• Coaching Confidence

• Professional Learning for PL Leaders

• Transforming PLCs

• Nurturing New Teachers

• Curriculum-Based Professional Learning

• Building Cultures of Community

• Using AI in Education

• Designing Engaging Professional Learning

• and more!

If you’re looking for learning that stretches your thinking, affirms your work, and equips you with tools you can use immediately—LFTX delivers.

Built for Connection

While attendees rave about the quality of the sessions, it’s the people who make the experience truly memorable. LFTX is more than a conference—it’s a gathering of educators who are deeply committed to professional learning, and the sense of community is strong from the very first day.

Whether it’s exchanging ideas during a breakout session, reconnecting with former colleagues, or meeting new collaborators, participants consistently describe the conference as energizing, welcoming, and relational.

The conference is intentionally sized to foster ongoing interaction. With just the right number of attendees, there’s always a valuable session to attend—and a strong chance you’ll cross paths with the same people multiple times. Those repeated moments spark deeper conversations and open the door to continued collaboration after the conference ends.

Participants also enjoy dedicated time for connection:

• Lunch is included each day, giving you space to keep the conversation going or meet someone new.

• Affiliate groups (LFCTX, LFNTX, LFSETX, LFWTX) provide opportunities to build regional connections and community. 

• Extended breaks and a Tuesday evening exhibitor reception offer time to explore sponsor booths and network with other attendees. Sponsors are thoughtfully selected to align with the work of schools and districts, making those conversations both relevant and worthwhile.

Before the conference begins, consider this reflection:

How can you plan now to connect with more people during your time at LFTX?

Will you reach out to a colleague to attend with you? Introduce yourself to someone in your affiliate group? Sit with someone new at lunch? Small steps can lead to lasting professional relationships.

Ready to Join Us?

Register now to save your spot—and be part of a professional learning experience that is truly collaborative, practical, and impactful.

Whether you’re coming back for your tenth year or joining us for the first time, we can’t wait to welcome you to a space where learning is designed for those who design learning. We can’t wait to see you in Hurst, Texas, from June 16 - 18, 2025!

Kathryn Laster brings over 30 years of education expertise as a math teacher, instructional coach, and digital learning consultant. Now, as an independent consultant, Kathryn creates and facilitates transformative learning experiences through intentional, human-centered, tech-infused design. Connect with Kathryn here and at Refined Learning Design.