3 minute read
Professional Learning Update
Leadership Spotlight: A look back at the 2025 CLAS Convention
Dr. Demica Sanders, CLAS Director of Professional Learning
The 2025 CLAS Convention brought energy, innovation, and bold leadership to center stage under this year’s dynamic theme: “Lights. Leadership. Action.” Held at the Mobile Convention Center, the three-day experience offered Alabama’s educational leaders a platform to spotlight what’s working, cast a vision for what’s next, and take bold action for student success. From powerful keynotes and engaging breakout sessions to unforgettable networking opportunities, this year’s convention was nothing short of transformative.
Lights On: Illuminating Ideas That Inspire
The convention opened with an electrifying keynote from Steve Pemberton, who reminded us of the importance of finding the anchors in our lives. He offered practical strategies to help define purpose, build meaningful connections, and lead with authenticity.
Weston Kieschnick followed with a groundbreaking roadmap for capturing student engagement from the very first moments of class and sustaining it to the end. Let’s just say… many of us will never look at the order of operations the same way again!
Jasmine Guy closed the convention with heartfelt gratitude for the work educators do each day. Her inspiring words reminded us of our deeper purpose and the lasting impact of our leadership on students and communities.
Leadership in Motion: Learning, Connecting, and Growing
True to its theme, the 2025 CLAS Convention put leadership in motion. A robust lineup of breakout sessions provided practical strategies on topics such as data-informed decision-making, instructional coaching, mental wellness, legal compliance, and community engagement. Attendees explored not just immediate challenges but also long-term strategies for building capacity, shaping culture, and fostering innovation in schools.
Networking remained a cornerstone of the event. From structured sessions to spontaneous hallway conversations, leaders shared success stories, exchanged ideas, and strengthened their professional networks.
A highlight of the convention was the annual President’s Reception, a joyful reminder that celebration has a rightful place in leadership. While Daphne—the beloved alter ego of the CLAS Professional Learning Director—didn’t take the dance floor this year, she certainly enjoyed herself, especially singing along to “Tell Me Something Good” with a spirited group of attendees. Rumor has it, she may have made a special appearance later that night at Veets!
Action Forward: Partnering for Possibility
In the Exhibit Hall, the convention’s theme came to life through innovation and collaboration. The red-carpet entrance welcomed attendees into a lively space filled with vendors, service providers, and education partners—all showcasing resources designed to strengthen Alabama’s schools.
From cutting-edge instructional tools and student wellness programs to professional development services and district planning supports, the exhibit space empowered leaders to take immediate action toward continuous improvement.
The centrally located registration and engagement area became more than a check-in point—it was a collaborative hub for door prizes, informal Q&A, music, and meaningful dialogue. Attendees didn’t just leave with brochures—they left with actionable ideas, new connections, and renewed energy.
Curtain Call: A Convention to Remember
As the final curtain closed, the 2025 CLAS Convention delivered on its promise: Lights. Camera. Leadership. More than a theme, it was a call to action—urging Alabama’s school leaders to illuminate what matters most, lead with intention, and take bold steps toward shaping the future of education.
As attendees returned to their districts, they carried more than just professional learning—they returned with clarity, confidence, and community. The road ahead is bright, and the lights leading the way are the dedicated leaders of Alabama’s schools.
Here’s to another year of action—and to all the leaders who keep the light shining.
