Every student deserves a bright future. Educators can find the tools and knowledge they need to help each and every student shine at the 2026 Every Child Counts Symposium.

This annual gathering of educators dedicated to student services and special education will help them find strategies for navigating today’s challenges while building a stronger future for every child.

“This event always provides me with up-to-date information relevant to my work, inspires me through thoughtful and inspirational speakers, and allows me to connect with my colleagues from across the state,” said Ginese Quann, assistant superintendent, Charter SELPA with the El Dorado County Office of Education and chair of this year’s conference planning committee.

The planning committee chose the theme “Navigating the Present, Bridging the Future” to acknowledge the realities of working in special education and student services, but also the possibilities.

“We recognize that currently there is a lot that educators are navigating from the classroom to the community and beyond,” Quann said. “We also wanted to not only have sessions that focus on the present but also what the future may hold for students, staff, and families.”

The Every Child Counts Symposium is an ideal conference for all educators in special education and student services positions, including:

• Teachers.
• Teacher leaders.
• Co-administrators.
• Counselors.
• School psychologists.
• Speech pathologists.
• Principals.
• Special Education administrators.
• Student Services administrators.
• Superintendents.

Whether they are veterans or just starting out in this role, attendees will gain new ideas and creative strategies for making sure “every child counts.” They’ll also get up-to-the-minute guidance on laws impacting students’ access to a free appropriate public education.

“I don’t think you’re done learning in any profession, especially education,” Quann said. “As the world changes so do our students and we need to stay relevant, connected, curious, and innovative.”

Quann said this year’s sessions reflect a holistic focus on access, equity, and innovation across special education and general education systems. Attendees will have dozens of sessions to choose from to build their knowledge around several key topics, including:

• Access and student support.
• Mental health and well-being.
• Behavioral and climate transformation.
• Data-informed systems and continuous improvement.
• Collaboration, co-teaching, and MTSS.
• Technology, innovation, and AI.
• Leadership.
• Wellness.
• Workforce development.
• Family, community, and relationship building.

This year’s keynote speakers will share perspectives that will leave a lasting impression on educators.

“The keynotes are not only entertaining and knowledgeable, but relevant,” Quann said. “I think attendees will be excited to hear their message and be able to relate personally and professionally.”

Kaelynn Partlow — Kaelynn Partlow was diagnosed with autism at the age of 10. Widely recognized for her role in the Netflix series “Love on the Spectrum,” Partlow uses her social media to promote meaningful inclusion and actionable support, reaching millions worldwide in her mission of autism advocacy.

The Holderness Family — Kim and Penn Holderness are award-winning content creators whose videos have resulted in over 3 billion views since 2013. They are also authors of the New York Times Best Seller “ADHD Is Awesome: A Guide To (Mostly) Thriving With ADHD” and the newly released children’s book, “All You Can Be With ADHD.”

Jack B. Clarke, Jr. — Jack B. Clarke, Jr. is a partner in AALRR’s Student Services and Disabilities Practice Group and has successfully defended school districts and other education clients in student disciplinary matters, civil rights and Constitutional claims, and special education due process hearings. During his impressive career, he has made his mark on both the community and the profession.

The conference will be held at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, located downtown and just steps away from Seaport Villiage and the Gaslamp Quarter. Group rates are available until Dec. 11 or until the hotel block is full.