You’ve done your research, implemented a transformational program and you’re seeing results. It’s time to share that knowledge with your fellow school leaders at a professional development conference.

“Presenting at a conference offers both personal and professional rewards,” said Dr. Eveline Huh, who has presented multiple times at Leadership Summit and other conferences inside and outside of ACSA. “Sharing your experiences — whether successes or challenges — provides a sense of validation for the work you’ve done and allows you to contribute valuable insights to others in the field.”

ACSA hosts seven statewide conferences that solicit proposals for presentations. A “call for proposals” typically goes out four to eight months prior to the conference, said Elaine Cervantez, ACSA’s director of events and operations. Members can watch for alerts via e-mail, social media and in EdCal for when proposals are being accepted.

Proposals are submitted via an online form, where prospective presenters can upload their bio and headshot, information about co-presenters and their presentation proposal.

The planning committee for each conference then reviews the submissions and invites the presenters with the best and most relevant proposals to present at the conference.

“Many times the good things that are happening within your district can be a model for other districts that have similar demographics, programs or needs,” said Dr. Kimberly Hendricks-Brown, who has served on four planning committees and will serve as chair for ACSA’s 2025 Leadership Summit planning committee.

So how do you craft a winning proposal? ACSA asked planning committee members for their advice.

Make sure it’s relevant. Although it’s not required, planning committee members encouraged presenters to incorporate the theme of the conference to increase the chances of their proposal being chosen.

Pay attention to the learning “strands” that are identified in the call for proposals instructions. These strands are identified by the planning committee to help guide presenters on the specific topics school leaders need to know about right now.

Also be aware of your audience — some conferences cater to different job categories — and provide actionable insights that can help support attendees in their roles.

Have a focused learning goal. Planning committee members want to hear what attendees will walk away with after attending the session. Outline clear and comprehensive goals for the presentation — but be realistic.

“Don’t submit a proposal that seems like it would take more than the allotted time to present — focus your proposal,” said Steven Bailey, who has served on planning committees for CEL Institute and Lead With Pride Summit.

Include your expertise. Defining the “what” of a presentation is crucial, but so is the “who.”

“Also important is the presenter’s background and experience,” said Michael Tapia, who has served on ACSA’s Lead With Pride planning committee. “Limited experience in the field, especially related to the topic, is a big negative.”

Be sure to include relevant work experience, such as positions held, but also professional accomplishments. If you are presenting on attendance strategies and recently reduced chronic absenteeism at your school site by 50 percent, say so — it will show that your approach works.

Make it engaging. Be sure your proposal describes how you will make your presentation more than just a “sit and get.”

“A great session goes beyond a traditional lecture format. Just as students benefit from active learning, adult learners need opportunities to engage with the content,” Huh said.

Tapia suggests presenters incorporate engaging graphics and video clips and devote time for audience participation.

Make it uniquely you. “Oversaturation” of a particular topic may lead organizers to prioritize variety so attendees have a broader selection of topics to explore. That’s why potential presenters should be creative with their topics.

“When reviewing proposals, I look for a ‘new’ proposal, not something that is a package or that is generic,” said Bailey.

Planning committee members also suggested collaborating with co-presenters that can add diverse voices and bring a well-rounded perspective to the subject. And don’t be afraid to get personal — many attendees say they benefit from hearing about the personal journeys of their fellow school administrators.