NAIS Gather 2026
December 2-5, Boston
Gather is NAIS's new convening for educators, administrators, and school leaders committed to advancing inclusion and belonging in independent schools. We're gathering this December in every sense of the word—coming together to connect and learn, and to gather insight, skills, and strength.
Dedicated to strengthening our learning environments, Gather builds on what NAIS has learned from educators of color to inform a broader, more connected experience for anyone who has felt unseen in their schools and for those committed to the work of inclusion and belonging. The time to come together for a new event that champions this commitment...is right now.
We invite you to Gather.
Three Pathways
The event will offer three pathways—Renewing and Growing, Sustaining School Belonging, and Engaging Across Community—to rejuvenate you personally, equip schools professionally, and challenge us all collectively.
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The success of inclusion and belonging in schools depends on the individuals committed to such efforts being recognized, valued, and heard.
This pathway provides spaces of joy, and affirmation so that individuals feel supported and rejuvenated. It will include gathering spaces, career coaching and skill development, and opportunities for self-care and wellness.
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Thriving, inclusive schools weave belonging throughout all aspects of the experience.
This pathway includes expert- and practitioner-led workshops that will allow attendees to learn from and with each other about what it takes to sustain belonging in independent schools.
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Our sector as a whole is strengthened when we listen to and learn from one another, across differences and with an appreciation for range of experience and perspectives.
This pathway centers on thoughtful, facilitated dialogue around relevant, complex topics. Participants will engage in courageous conversations, leveraging principles and practices based in civic discourse.
Call for Proposals
Gather is a space for bold thinking, honest reflection, and collective learning—and we invite you to help shape that experience. We are especially seeking thoughtful, practice‑rooted workshop proposals that explore what it means to be systems for inclusion and belonging in our schools.
Proposal submissions are now open! Gather proposals are due June 5, 2026.