See moments from keynotes, breakout sessions, and discussions that showcased evidence-based practices in engagement, attendance, and dropout prevention.
Educators from across the globe gathered at the 35th National Dropout Prevention Conference in Orlando.
Dr. Robert Peters spoke with Judith Ewing from Turks and Caicos about what’s making this year’s conference so impactful.
What happens when a conference idea turns into a districtwide innovation? Dr. Larry Schmiegel, Superintendent of Watertown City School District (NY), shares how inspiration from last year’s NDPC conference led to the creation of Cyclone Academy—a student-centered night school that helped increase graduation rates from 69% to 84%.
Dr Bernadine Futrell
Managing Director at MindUP | The Goldie Hawn Foundation; Former Deputy Assistant Secretary, U.S. Department of Education
Dr. Robert Peters
Senior Vice President, National Dropout Prevention Center | Successful Practices Network
Throughout the event, attendees brought the energy online and on-site—sharing their insights on social media and actively engaging with the conference app. From thoughtful posts to lively session check-ins, their participation helped build a vibrant, connected learning community. Thanks to all who joined the conversation—and congratulations to our prize winners!
These attendees earned their Trauma-Skilled Specialist and National Dropout Prevention Specialist certifications during this year’s conference. These K-12 Professionals demonstrated their commitment to creating trauma-responsive, student-centered environments that support every learner’s path to graduation
Congratulations to Erin Leigh Nielsen, Monica Frank, and Katie Hatley—this year’s certification recipients.
