Workshop Submission Guidelines and Tips

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 develop and sustain systems for inclusion and belonging in our schools.

We’re eager for sessions that grapple with questions such as: How do our policies, practices, and cultures either reinforce or disrupt exclusion? What does it look like—day to day—to design systems that foster belonging for all members of a community? How are leaders, teams, and institutions moving from intention to sustained action?

Proposal submissions are now open! Gather proposals are due June 5, 2026. Click here to submit your proposal.

Reasons to Present at Gather

Submission Types and Requirements

Gather offers two types of workshops. Each individual may submit up to three proposals for each presentation type. Check out the submission requirements below.

75-Minute Workshops: 75-minute workshops allow participants to investigate a topic with sufficient time to explore research and data, share resources, and use interactive activities to support the learning. The presenters are expected to have facilitation experience and will be asked to provide a tentative agenda for how they will spend their time. Presenters should design highly interactive workshops, providing notable takeaways and resources for attendees.

30-Minute Sprint Sessions: 30-minute Sprint Sessions are designed for big topics, short sessions, real impact. In just 30 minutes, participants will have practical strategies can be used immediately while building momentum for long-term change. Presenters are expected to share real examples of how these approaches are already being put into practice in our schools to drive systemic change. It’s a sprint in the moment and a marathon in practice.

• Gather Workshop Submission Requirements and Guidelines (PDF)

Conference Pathways

• Renewing and Growing: The success of inclusion and belonging in schools depends on the individuals committed to such efforts being recognized, valued, and heard.
• Sustaining School Belonging: Thriving, inclusive schools weave belonging throughout all aspects of the experience.
• Engaging Across Community: 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. 

Make Your Proposal Stand Out

• Pick a timely, relevant topic that genuinely interests you. What challenges and successes are you witnessing on school campuses, and how can those lessons be applied more broadly?
• Ensure that your session content closely aligns with your selected pathway and topic tag. 
• Your title and description should be clear and captivating. A good title will invite participants to join by making the topic and coverage distinct and engaging. Make sure that your description supports the title.
• Use research, case studies, examples, and even anecdotes support your expertise.
• Proofread and edit what you’ve submitted so reviewers know you’ve taken time on your submission.

FAQs

What information do I need to submit a proposal?

See the requirements at the top of this page to help prepare your submission. If applicable, collect co-presenter information before starting the submission process.

What is the submission and review process? 

The submission period is open until June 5, 2026, at 11:59 PM PT. A team of reviewers will review and assess all proposals using the scoring rubric above. Final decisions will be announced in August 2026.

Who can submit a proposal?

Individuals at NAIS member schools and state and regional association member schools are encouraged to submit workshop proposals. Submissions from those not affiliated with a school (member or nonmember) are highly encouraged to pair with an NAIS member school for consideration. You do not need to be from an NAIS member school to submit. If selected, solicitation or promotion of services during your workshop presentation is strictly prohibited.

When will I know if I’ve been accepted?

The primary contact on the submission will receive an email in August 2026.