NDPC offers a wide range of national, regional, and special topic conferences addressing all facets of the dropout prevention issue.
View a full list of all past conferences.

Upcoming Conferences

Past Conferences

33rd National Dropout Prevention Conference

October 15 - 18, 2023
Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista South
Kissimmee, Florida

Welcome to the 33rd Annual National Dropout Prevention Conference Welcome to the 33rd Annual National Dropout Prevention Conference Future Focused Approaches to Support ALL Students NDPC is proud to be hosting this year’s event at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista South October 15-18, 2023. Creating systemic approaches to meet the needs of our… Read More »
* Registration Now Open    * Hotel Reservations Now Open    * Call for Proposals Extended   

2022 At-Risk Youth National Forum

June 19 - 22, 2022
Embassy Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista South
Kissimmee, FL

From the Covid pandemic to racial unrest and economic uncertainty, our at-risk students have been directly impacted by the events of the last 18 months. The number of at-risk students has increased, and the needs of those students have become more complex. Creating systemic approaches to meet those needs and create opportunities for success has… Read More »

Trauma-Skilled Schools™ Virtual Institute

November 30 - 9, 2021
Nov 30th, Dec 2nd, 7th, (optional 9th)

It has never been more important to support our trauma-impacted students. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students and our communities. While it is helpful to be trauma-aware and trauma-informed, it is more… Read More »

Trauma-Skilled Schools™ Virtual Institute

July 20 - 27, 2021
July 20, 22, 27

As schools and districts move towards the start of the 2021 – 2022 school year it has never been more important to support our trauma-impacted students. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students… Read More »

Leading a Trauma-Skilled School™

July 13 - 13, 2021
11:00am - 12:00pm ET

Leading a Trauma-Skilled School™ – FREE Workshop for School Leaders Join us for a free virtual learning experience titled, Leading a Trauma-Skilled School™, featuring Ray McNulty and John Gailer, to learn more about how the Trauma-Skilled Schools™ model creates a system-wide culture with skilled adults ensuring that policies and practices meet the needs of all… Read More »

Trauma-Skilled Schools Virtual Institute

May 18 - 25, 2021
May 18, 20, 25

Schools and districts have faced many uncertainties as they’ve reopened for the 2020–2021 school year. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students and our communities. While it is helpful to be trauma-aware and… Read More »

Trauma-Skilled Schools Virtual Institute

April 20 - 27, 2021
April 20, 22, 27

Schools and districts have faced many uncertainties as they’ve reopened for the 2020–2021 school year. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students and our communities. While it is helpful to be trauma-aware and… Read More »

Trauma-Skilled Schools Virtual Institute

March 9 - 16, 2021
March 9, 11, 16

Schools and districts have faced many uncertainties as they’ve reopened for the 2020–2021 school year. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students and our communities. While it is helpful to be trauma-aware and… Read More »

Trauma-Skilled Schools Virtual Institute

February 2 - 9, 2021
February 2, 4, 9, 2021

Schools and districts have faced many uncertainties as they’ve reopened for the 2020–2021 school year. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students and our communities. While it is helpful to be trauma-aware and… Read More »

EDUCATION NEXT: The Post COVID-19 Challenge

October 29 - 29, 2020

Join us for a virtual keynote address, EDUCATION NEXT: The Post COVID-19 Challenge featuring Dr. Bill Daggett and Ray McNulty. This presentation will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2020, 3:30 p.m.—4:45 p.m. EST, We hope you can join us for this no cost event. For planning purposes, we do require you to register. 2020… Read More »

Trauma-Skilled Schools Virtual Institute

October 20 - 27, 2020
October 20, 22, 27, 2020

Schools and districts have faced many uncertainties as they’ve reopened for the 2020–2021 school year. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students and our communities. While it is helpful to be trauma-aware and… Read More »

Postponed: 32nd Annual National Dropout Prevention Conference

October 18 - 21, 2020

Due to both health concerns and uncertainties of the coming months, the National Dropout Prevention Center will postpone the 32nd Annual National Dropout Prevention Conference scheduled for October 18-21, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia.  The 32nd Annual National Dropout Prevention Conference will be rescheduled at a later date.  Details of the rescheduled event will be announced… Read More »

Trauma Skilled Schools Back to School Virtual Institute

September 22 - 29, 2020
September 22, 24, & 29, 2020

Schools and districts face many uncertainties as they look to reopening for the 2020–2021 school year. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students and our communities. While it is helpful to be trauma-aware… Read More »

Trauma-Skilled Schools Back-To-School Virtual Institute

August 25 - 1, 2020
August 25, 27, & September 1, 2020
EVENT FULL/REGISTRATION CLOSED

      Schools and districts face many uncertainties as they look to reopening for the 2020–2021 school year. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students and our communities. While it is helpful… Read More »

Trauma Skilled Schools Back to School Virtual Institute

August 4 - 11, 2020

  Schools and districts face many uncertainties as they look to reopening for the 2020–2021 school year. From the health-related concerns brought about by COVID–19 and subsequent related economic uncertainties to the ongoing challenges of racial inequities and social justice, trauma has increasingly affected our students and our communities. While it is helpful to be… Read More »

Trauma-Skilled Schools Institute

February 17 - 19, 2020
The Westin Charlotte
Charlotte, NC

Audience: Administrators, principals, teachers, counselors, dropout prevention coordinators, alternative education teams

2019 At-Risk Youth National FORUM

February 17 - 20, 2019
Embassy Suites at Kingston Plantation
Myrtle Beach, SC

Efforts to reach at-risk youth begin with CONNECTION.  This year’s FORUM focuses on the skill of connecting.  The conference offers breakout sessions and skill building workshops that help leaders build systems that are conducive to connections and demonstrate skills that assist youth practitioners in their efforts to connect. 
* Conference Video  

2018 Reaching the Wounded Student Conference

June 24 - 27, 2018
Embassy Suites Orlando-Lake Buena Vista South
Kissimmee, FL

Watch the conference video!  Conference Program           Conference Strands School Safety School Resource Officers, School Administrators, Counselors, and other professionals are invited to share effective strategies and programs that promote a physically and emotionally safe learning environment. Anti-Bullying initiatives are welcome. Emotional Literacy Effective programs and adopted vision/mission statements geared… Read More »
* Conference Video  

2018 At-Risk Youth National FORUM

February 18 - 21, 2018
Embassy Suites at Kingston Plantation
Myrtle Beach, SC

  The National Dropout Prevention Center/Network would like to invite you to the 2018 At-Risk Youth National FORUM, February 18-21, 2018, in Myrtle Beach, SC. The conference theme is ENGAGE: Create a Legacy of Success. We are excited to announce our three Keynote Speakers: Mr. Frank DeAngelis, retired principal at Columbine High School; Mr. Roy Juarez,… Read More »
* Conference Video  

Colorado Student Engagement Institute

November 13 - 14, 2017
Arvada Banquet and Conference Center
Arvada, CO

The National Dropout Prevention Center/Network (NDPC/N) and Hope 4 The Wounded, LLC are pleased to sponsor the Colorado Student Engagement Institute, a two-day professional development workshop. Day One – Presented by Dr. Joe Hendershott, Hope 4 The Wounded, LLC Many young people carry wounds with them as they head to school, interact with friends and… Read More »

2017 National Dropout Prevention Network Conference

October 22 - 25, 2017
Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel and Convention Center
Palm Springs, CA

  Keynote and Featured Speakers Dr. Francisco Rodriguez Chancellor, Los Angeles Community College District, Los Angeles, CA Dr. Francisco Rodriguez began his tenure as chancellor of the Los Angeles Community College District on June 1, 2014. Prior to his appointment as head of the nation’s largest community college district, Dr. Rodriguez served as superintendent/president at… Read More »
* Conference Video  

Diploma Planning Institute

August 21 - 22, 2017
Cheboygan-Otsego-Presque Isle ESD
Indian River, Michigan

    An Engagement and Increased Student Success Planning Event For School Leadership Teams The Diploma Planning Institute (DPI) for School Leadership and Administration Teams on August 21-22, 2017, is a two-day working event that guides school teams through a process that yields a practical improvement plan to increase student success with locally specific action steps… Read More »

The Freshman Success Conference

June 25 - 28, 2017
Rosen Centre Hotel
Orlando, Florida

“If you want to reduce dropouts and increase the number of on-time graduates, focusing your work on ninth grade students is consistently an effective strategy.” ~ Dr. Sandy Addis, Director, National Dropout Prevention Center. Freshman Success can be a key determinant of on-time graduation. But what do you do to help all of your ninth… Read More »

2017 Reaching the Wounded Student Conference

June 25 - 28, 2017
Rosen Centre Hotel
Orlando, Florida

Join us for the 2017 Reaching the Wounded Student Conference: A Trauma-Informed Approach to Helping Youth Beyond At-Risk presented by the National Dropout Prevention Center/Network and Hope 4 The Wounded, LLC Educational Seminars.  The conference is the perfect staff development event for school/district https://dropoutprevention.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/C.W.-Gardenhire-pic.jpgistrators, teachers, counselors, community and faith-based youth practitioners. Many young people today carry wounds with them as they… Read More »

2017 National Forum on Dropout Prevention for Native and Tribal Communities

April 9 - 12, 2017
We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center
Scottsdale, AZ

The 2017 National Forum on Dropout Prevention for Native and Tribal Communities is a professional learning activity sponsored by The National Dropout Prevention Center, in partnership with the Arizona Department of Education, Alaska Staff Development Network, the Alaska Council of School Administrators, the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, and the Native American Fatherhood and Families Association.… Read More »
* Conference Video  

Diploma Planning Institute – Ohio

February 23 - 24, 2017
ESC of Central Ohio
Columbus, Ohio

The National Dropout Prevention Center/Network (NDPC/N) at Clemson University and the Educational Service Center of Central Ohio, Columbus, OH, are pleased to offer an effective and affordable graduation rate improvement opportunity to districts and schools. Join district teams from around Ohio and create a strategic dropout prevention plan with assistance from Clemson University and the… Read More »

2017 At-Risk Youth National FORUM

February 19 - 22, 2017
Embassy Suites at Kingston Plantation
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

[one_half] Dabo Swinney to Headline National Dropout Prevention Center/Network 2017 At-Risk Youth National FORUM Forum Explores Powerful Positive Impact of Mentors on At-Risk Youth The National Dropout Prevention Center/Network is excited to announce Dabo Swinney as the keynote speaker for the 2017 At-Risk Youth National FORUM! Scheduled for February 19-22, 2017, in Myrtle Beach, SC,… Read More »
* Conference Video  

Diploma Planning Institute

October 26 - 27, 2016
Robert Mollohan Research Center
Fairmont, WV

The National Dropout Prevention Center (NDPC) and RESA 7 are pleased to offer an effective and affordable dropout prevention planning event for districts and schools. The Diploma Planning Institute (DPI) is a two-day working event that guides school teams through a process that yields a practical graduation rate improvement plan with locally specific action steps… Read More »

Diploma Planning Institute

July 21 - 22, 2016
Jonesboro, Georgia

The National Dropout Prevention Center (NDPC) and the Clayton County School System are pleased to offer an effective and affordable graduation rate improvement opportunity to districts and schools. The 2016 Georgia Diploma Planning Institute (DPI) is a two-day working event that guides school teams through a process that yields a practical graduation rate improvement plan… Read More »

2016 Reaching the Wounded Student Conference

June 26 - 29, 2016
Embassy Suites Orlando-Lake Buena Vista South
Kissimmee, Florida

    Conference Strands School Safety • Emotional Literacy • Counseling/Therapeutic Insights • Creating Community • Learning/Academic Achievement • Practitioner Health and Well-Being
* Conference Video  

2016 National Forum on Dropout Prevention: Serving Native Students and Tribal Communities

March 6 - 9, 2016
Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center Hotel
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

2016 National Forum on Dropout Prevention: Serving Native Students and Tribal Communities Conference Video   2016 National Forum on Dropout Prevention: Serving Native Students and Tribal Communities Photo Gallery   Forum Strands Addressing the Opportunity Gap • Instructional Strategies to Increase Learning • Behavioral Supports • Family and Community Engagement • School Climate: Safety and Student Wellness • Service-Learning and… Read More »
* Conference Photo Gallery   * Conference Video   * Keynote Speakers Video  

2016 At-Risk Youth National FORUM

February 14 - 17, 2016
Embassy Suites at Kingston Plantation
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

2016 At-Risk Youth National FORUM Resources 2016-At-Risk Youth National FORUM Keynote Presentation Videos 2016 At-Risk Youth National FORUM Powerpoint Presentations Leading Graduation Rate Improvement in Your School and Community, Dr. Sandy Addis, National Dropout Prevention Center/Network, Clemson, SC Climate Change: Building a Caring, Connected, College and Career Ready School Culture, Ms. Stacey DeWitt, Connect with… Read More »
* Conference Photo Gallery   * Conference Video   * Keynote Speakers Video  

2015 National Dropout Prevention Network Conference

October 25 - 28, 2015
Wyndham San Antonio Riverwalk Hotel
San Antonio, Texas

The National Dropout Prevention Network (NDPN), in partnership with Texas A&M University-San Antonio, Texas Education Agency, Texas Association of School Administrators, Texas School Safety Center at Texas State University, Texas Juvenile Justice Department, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Texas Department of State Health Services, Northeast Independent School District, Texas Education Service Center-Region 20,… Read More »
* Conference Photo Gallery   * Conference Video  

2015 Diploma Planning Institute

September 20 - 23, 2015
IP Casino Resort & Spa
Biloxi, Mississippi

The Diploma Planning Institute is an opportunity for teams of school and/or district https://dropoutprevention.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/C.W.-Gardenhire-pic.jpgistrators to consult field experts to develop customized, practical, and local plans to prevent dropouts and increase graduation rates. Registration includes all conference materials, a Welcome Reception Sunday evening, 2 lunches, and a one year Individual Membership to the National Dropout Prevention… Read More »

2015 National Forum on Dropout Prevention for Native and Tribal Communities

April 26 - 29, 2015
Mystic Lake® Casino Hotel
Prior Lake, Minnesota

The 2015 National Forum on Dropout Prevention for Native and Tribal Communities, “Building Engaging Educational Communities for Native Students,” is a professional development activity sponsored by The National Dropout Prevention Center/Network (NDPC/N), in partnership with The National Indian Education Association, Alaska Staff Development Network, Iowa Department of Education, Minnesota Department of Education, North Dakota Department… Read More »

2015 Reaching the Wounded Student Conference

April 21 - 22, 2015
Berlin, Ohio

  Hope 4 The Wounded, LLC and the National Dropout Prevention Center/Network team up to provide a valuable professional development opportunity focused on needs and strategies for reaching wounded students. The conference, held in the heart of Ohio’s Amish country, will feature updated research on wounded students, strategies to reach and transform wounded students, and… Read More »

2015 At-Risk Youth National FORUM

February 15 - 18, 2015
Embassy Suites at Kingston Plantation
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The National Dropout Prevention Center/Network in partnership with Communities In Schools of North Carolina and South Carolina, Inc.; South Carolina Department of Education; North Carolina Department of Public Instruction; University of North Carolina Wilmington Watson College of Education Dropout Prevention Coalition; T.O.O.L.S. Training Associates, LLC; Coastal Carolina University, William L. Spadoni College of Education; and… Read More »

26th Annual National Dropout Prevention Network Conference

November 2 - 5, 2014
The Galt House
Louisville, Kentucky

Conference Strands Literacy • School Climate • Data Assessment and Continuous Improvement • Curriculum and Instruction • College and Career Pathways • Leadership, Policy, and Governance • Student Support Services and Intervention • Student, Family and Community Engagement • New Literacy, Media and Technology • Common Core and the At-Risk Student • Alternative Pathways Conference… Read More »

2014 Diploma Plan Institute

June 18 - 20, 2014
Kingston Plantation
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Summary Diploma Plan Institute is an opportunity for teams of school and/or district https://dropoutprevention.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/C.W.-Gardenhire-pic.jpgistrators to consult with contracted field experts to develop customized, practical, and local plans to prevent dropouts and increase graduation rates.Teams will be guided through the development of a realistic plan based on a template provided by the National Dropout Prevention Center… Read More »

2014 National Forum on Dropout Prevention for Native and Tribal Communities

April 27 - 30, 2014
Mystic Lake Casino Hotel
Prior Lake, Minnesota

The 2014 National Forum on Dropout Prevention for Native and Tribal Communities, “Building Engaging Educational Communities for Native Students,” is a professional development activity sponsored by The National Dropout Prevention Center/Network (NDPC/N), in partnership with The National Indian Education Association, the Minnesota Department of Education, the South Dakota Department of Education, the Wisconsin Department of… Read More »
* Conference Photo Gallery  

26th Annual At-Risk Youth National Forum

February 16 - 19, 2014
Kingston Plantation Embassy Suites
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

You are invited to attend the 26th Annual At-Risk Youth National FORUM, “Providing Hope and Support in and Beyond the Classroom,” to be held Sunday, February 16, 2014, through Wednesday, February 19, 2014, at the Kingston Plantation in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. This year’s FORUM is designed to enhance the leadership skills of all adults… Read More »

25th Annual National Dropout Prevention Network Conference

November 3 - 6, 2013
Crowne Plaza Ravinia
Atlanta, Georgia

You are invited to attend the 25th Annual National Dropout Prevention Network Conference, November 3-6, 2013, at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia in Atlanta, Georgia. The National Dropout Prevention Network, Georgia Department of Education, the Georgia Regional Educational Service Agencies, and Communities In Schools of Georgia are pleased to provide a dynamic professional learning opportunity for… Read More »
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