ACSA’s Women in School Leadership Forum brings together a diverse community of women in the education profession — aspiring leaders and those currently in leadership positions — for a multi-day experience focusing on leadership, empowerment and camaraderie.

This year’s conference takes place at a critical and difficult time to be an educational leader. The theme “Leading, Lifting and Leaving a Legacy” was chosen to encourage women to continue leading with passion despite these challenges, said Planning Committee Chair Marian Kim Phelps.

“Our goal was to select a theme that would be meaningful to women in leadership today, while providing them opportunities to learn, engage in powerful dialogue/discussions and have opportunities to network,” said Kim Phelps, superintendent of Poway Unified School District. “As leaders in our respective roles, it is crucial for us to lift one another up and provide support. Additionally, we want to emphasize the importance of leaving a lasting legacy. What kind of impact are you making? What footprint or mark will you leave behind?”

Conference sessions will address the unique challenges of being a woman in leadership, from balancing personal and professional demands to navigating challenging conversations. Sessions will also delve into the intersection of social media and AI and explore what educators need to know in order to adapt and thrive in this evolving landscape. Networking will be another key focus, with guidance on how to build effective networks and utilize them to advance in the field.

“Ultimately, this conference will provide valuable insights on how to succeed in current leadership roles while also empowering attendees to pursue further opportunities and achieve long-term success,” Kim Phelps said.

Two dynamic and captivating keynote presenters will inspire and empower school leaders. Attendees will also enjoy networking receptions, opportunities to recharge with morning walks and yoga, and nearby amenities including pools, a nature reserve and shopping.

Another popular feature is the mock interview panels, where attendees can practice job interviewing skills.

“As women, we often struggle to effectively promote ourselves. From a young age, societal norms often discourage girls from boasting or being too assertive, instilling in us a sense of humility and downplaying ourselves and our strengths,” she said. “Therefore, it is crucial for female leaders to sharpen their interview skills in order to overcome these challenges.”

Kim Phelps said attendees will be able to maximize their experience at this conference by making themselves available and open to meeting new people. With formal networking opportunities (like breakfasts and receptions) and plenty of informal ones, attendees may find a mentor — or maybe even meet their next boss.

“The true power of such events lies in the connections we forge, allowing us to lean on and learn from individuals who can provide guidance and support in our leadership journeys,” Kim Phelps said. “Seize the chance to introduce yourself and engage in conversations that can foster meaningful connections.”

Kim Phelps said the conference will present a platform for attendees to share their experiences, challenges and triumphs as women in school leadership.

“After enduring a challenging year, there is a sense of comfort in knowing that others have navigated similar circumstances and can empathize with our journeys,” she said. “This shared understanding fosters a sense of camaraderie and strengthens our collective resolve to overcome obstacles and continue to thrive as women in school leadership.”

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