The Quad
Step into The Quad (formerly the Expo)—a dynamic and reimagined space designed to foster connection, learning, and innovation at Thrive 2026. Much like a campus quad, this gathering place will serve as the heart of the conference, where attendees can gather, recharge, and immerse themselves in unique programming that drives educational excellence.
- Thursday, February 26: 10:30 AM-4:15 PM PT
- Friday, February 27: 10:15 AM-2:15 PM PT
The Quad has three centers: the Career Center, the Innovation & Technology Center, and the Teaching & Learning Center. Some offerings will require pre-registration due to limited capacity.
Career Center
Find personalized career support, build your skills, get hands-on practice, and draw inspiration from other schools.
Sign up for free 45-minute sessions with educator-focused coaches and others who are trained to listen, ask powerful questions, and create a space for reflection. Whether you have a school-based dilemma or are facing a personal or professional crossroads, take advantage of the opportunity to use a fully trained and certified coach as a sounding board. The Coaches’ Corner signups will be available in the conference mobile app, which will launch by early February.
Skills Studio
This new workspace is designed to develop skills through doing. Whether practicing critical leadership skills like holding difficult conversations, using AI tools, or developing your storytelling muscles, the Skills Studio will help you get hands-on experience.
Right-Brain Recess Sessions
Take a break from more traditional workshops and tap into your creative side! In this space, attendees can unwind and make something with their hands—whether it's a simple craft, a collaborative project, or just a fun way to reset. No experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to play. All materials provided.
Innovation & Technology Center
Join interactive sessions where you’ll engage with the latest education technologies and hear from peers who are using these tools to drive innovation in their classrooms.
Teach With Tech
Visit this space to interact with equipment, experts, and peers who are leveraging these technologies to support student and adult learning in their schools.
Teaching & Learning Center
From interactive workshops to innovative hands-on demonstrations, join sessions designed to inspire new teaching methods and explore education best practices.
Learn from educators as they pitch prototyped innovations around disruptive technology and student wellness, while getting real-time feedback from industry mentors.
Idea Exchange
Innovation on display! These interactive poster sessions connect practitioners around original teaching ideas. Explore new methods and find inspiration to enhance your classroom and your school. Take a gallery walk through the space or meet with the practitioners themselves in one of three sessions (Session 1: Thursday, February 26, 10:30-11:15 AM PT; Session 2: Thursday, February 26, 2:30-3:15 PM PT; Session 3: Friday, February 27, 10:15-11:00 AM PT).
In addition to programming, The Quad offers a variety of informal activities designed to help you relax, recharge, and network.
- Book Signings in the NAIS Central Bookstore
- Complimentary Headshots: Start the next step of your leadership journey by stopping by and getting a professional headshot taken.
- Wellness Zone:
- Complimentary Massages: Take a break from the hustle and bustle to get a brief chair massage. Let your cares melt away! (Sponsored by Blackbaud)
- Lounge Space: Pop into one of our lounges to connect with colleagues, meet new friends, enjoy some of the fun games, or to simply recharge before your next session! (Sponsored by Pacific Lutheran University)
- Opening Ceremony (Thursday: 10:30-11:15 AM):Celebrate the opening of The Quad with a 45-minute open house. Enjoy coffee, snacks, and entertainment while exploring this dynamic, reimagined space.
- Complimentary Lunch
- Thursday: 12:15-1:15 PM (Sponsored by Veracross)
- Friday: 12:15-1:15 PM
- Morning and Afternoon Breaks: Grab a coffee and snack, chat with exhibitors, and connect with fellow attendees.
- Thursday: 10:30-11:15 AM (Sponsored by Carney, Sandoe & Associates), 2:30-3:15 PM
- Friday: 10:15-11:00 AM (Sponsored by ERB)
With a blend of structured programming, engaging activities, and relaxation spaces, The Quad offers everything you need to make the most of your Thrive experience. Be sure to visit often to connect, learn, and recharge!