2027 Conference Highlights
Join us in New Orleans for our 30th Annual Beyond School Hours Conference — a milestone celebration you won’t want to miss!
We’ll be sharing exciting updates regularly, so be sure to check back each week for announcements about our inspiring keynote speakers, expert panelists, engaging exhibitors, special events, and surprise experiences planned throughout the conference.
From meaningful learning opportunities to unforgettable networking and celebrations, this year’s conference promises to be our biggest and most exciting yet. We can’t wait to celebrate with you in New Orleans!
Conference Strands
Education is evolving at a remarkable pace. Now is the time to connect, collaborate, and inspire one another as we work toward our shared mission: preparing every student for a successful future.
The Beyond School Hours 2027 theme is A FUTURE WITHOUT LIMITS: 30 Years of Purpose and Possibility. We will focus on six strands identified as the most important topics in education right now.
Leading For Impact
Workshops in this strand explore the leadership practices, organizational strategies, and innovative approaches that drive strong, mission-focused organizations.
Mission, Money, and Momentum
In today’s rapidly changing funding landscape, strong programs require more than passion – they require vison, strategy, and the ability to inspire investment.
Literacy for Life
Workshops in this strand focus on expanding literacy learning through innovative, evidence-based, and inclusive practices that empower all learners to thrive.
Igniting Futures with STEAM
Workshops in this strand showcase dynamic STEAM experiences that inspire curiosity, fuel creativity, and empower children and youth to become innovators, problem solvers, and critical thinkers.
Career Ready, Purpose Driven
Workshops in this strand focus on preparing our children and youth for college, careers, and life through meaningful, future-focused experiences.
Centering Student Voice and Belonging
Workshops in this strand focus on creating nurturing and welcoming student-centered environments where all children and youth feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Conference Schedule
8:00 AM -
3:30 PM
National Advisory Committee Meeting
9:00 AM
Vendor Set Up
8:00 AM –
2:30 PM
Pre-Con
4:00 PM –
6:00 PM
Exhibit Hall
Opening Reception
7:00 AM – 7:45 AM
Breakfast
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
General Session
9:00 AM –
9:45 AM
Exhibit Hall
9:45 AM –
11:00 AM
Workshop Block 1
11:15 AM –
12:30 PM
Workshop Block 2
12:30 PM –
1:15 PM
Lunch
1:15 PM –
2:00 PM
Exhibit Hall
2:15 PM –
3:30 PM
Workshop Block 3
3:45 PM –
5:00 PM
STEAM Fair
7:00 AM –
7:45 AM
Breakfast
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
General Session
9:00 AM – 9:45 AM
Exhibit Hall
9:45 AM – 11:00 AM
Workshop Block 5
11:15 AM –
12:30 PM
Workshop Block 6
12:30 PM –
1:15 PM
Lunch
1:15 PM –
2:00 PM
Exhibit Hall
2:15 PM – 3:30 PM
Workshop Block 7
3:45 PM –
5:00 PM
Workshop Block 8
7:15 AM –
7:45 AM
Breakfast
8:00 AM – 9:15 AM
Workshop Block 9
9:30 AM -
10:45 AM
Grand Finale
Featured Voices
Stay Tuned
Will be announced soon!
Champion of children
Steve Spangler
Educator, Author, Speaker
keynote speaker
Stay Tuned
Will be announced soon!
grand finale
Opening Reception
Kick off Beyond School Hours in style at our high-energy Opening Reception—complete with delicious food, drinks, live music, and surprise special guests! Capture the fun at the photo booth and enjoy an unforgettable evening of celebration, connection, and community.
Exhibit Hall
The Beyond School Hours exhibit hall showcases the latest tools, products, and services from the most innovative companies in the field, aimed at improving educational outcomes for youth across the entire learning day. Check out our 2026 Exhibitors!
100+ Workshops
Prepare yourself for 2027 and beyond! Each workshop has been carefully selected to ensure you walk away with fresh strategies, practical tools, and game-changing ideas for today’s learners. Designed for educators and out-of-school time professionals who are either new to the field or have years of experience, each session delivers hands-on learning that you can apply immediately.
Take a look at the complete list of workshops for reference.
STEAM Fair
Get ready for drones, coding, composting, remixing, and more! Join this interactive experience to enjoy bite-sized lessons from STEAM experts and learn more about the latest products in STEAM. You’ll be sure to walk away with new ideas, resources, and best practices!
Pop-Up Experiences
There’s always something new to discover at Beyond School Hours! From hands-on experiments, creative challenges, and live performances, we keep you inspired *beyond* the standard schedule.
Wellness Lounge
Relax and recharge between sessions in the Wellness Lounge, featuring calming wellness experiences like yoga and complimentary 10-minute back or hand massages for those who sign up. Enjoy a quiet, beautifully designed space with soothing lighting, sounds, and scents—plus free snacks and drinks—where you can unwind, connect, and reset.
Future Dates
2028
Feb. 16-19, 2028
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans Marriott
