A New Setting for a Renewed Experience

We’re excited to invite you to the SED Educators Conference in Virginia Beach! This year marks the first time we’re hosting outside of a church setting, and we’ve chosen a beautiful oceanfront hotel so that this gathering can be both elevating and refreshing — giving you space to learn, connect, and recharge.

Our keynote speaker, Ted Neitzke, is a nationally recognized leader, educator, and motivational speaker. With humor, energy, and real-world stories, Ted will encourage us to “charge into the storm” with courage and optimism in his keynote Buffalo Leadership, and then remind us just how much we matter in the lives of our students and communities during his wrap-up keynote, You Matter. You’ll leave with practical tools for leadership, renewed inspiration for your calling, and maybe even some moments of laughter (and tears) along the way.

Register today — rates increase after September 12!

Pre-Conference (Optional for Administrators and Principals)

Wednesday, October 8 – Register Here
For Principals and Pastors who serve together in schools

• 1:00 PM | Lunch Provided (pre-registered participants)
• 2:00 – 3:30 PM | Pastor–Principal Process with Ted Neitzke
• 3:30 – 3:45 PM | Break (Pastors are dismissed, or can stay for discussion)
• 3:45 – 4:00 PM | Patrick and Allison – ADF Presentation
• 4:00 – 4:30 PM | Administrator Round Table Session

Conference Schedule

Thursday, October 9

• 8:00–9:30 AM | Registration
• 9:30–10:30 AM | Breakouts #1
• 10:30 AM–12:00 PM | Keynote: Buffalo Leadership – Ted Neitzke
• 12:00–1:00 PM | Lunch (provided at hotel)
• 1:30–2:30 PM | Breakouts #2
• 3:00–4:00 PM | Breakouts #3 – Grade-Level Round Tables
• 4:30–5:30 PM | Worship & Anniversary Celebrations
• Evening | Dinner on your own

Friday, October 10

• 7:30–8:30 AM | Breakfast (provided at hotel)
• 8:30–9:30 AM | Breakouts #4
• 10:00–11:30 AM | Keynote Wrap-Up: You Matter – Ted Neitzke
• 11:30 AM–12:15 PM | Closing

About Our Keynote Speaker: Ted Neitzke

Ted Neitzke is a lifelong educator, leader, and nationally recognized motivational speaker. He has served at high levels of leadership in schools across the U.S., known for his expertise in employee engagement, strategic planning, and organizational culture.

As CEO of CESA 6, creator and host of The Smart Thinking Podcast, and Mayor of Port Washington, WI, Ted brings unmatched energy, creativity, humor, and passion for leadership development. His work has earned international recognition for employee engagement, regional recognition in strategic excellence, and local recognition for service and non-profit leadership.

Despite his many professional titles, Ted will tell you his favorites are: son, brother, husband, father, and uncle.

Contact: tneitzke@cesa6.org

Keynote Sessions

Buffalo Leadership
Thursday, October 9 | 10:30 AM–12:00 PM
How we lead is as important as who we lead. Leaders who are quick to tackle challenges with optimism energize the people they serve. In this keynote, Ted will share how to create a collective mindset that strengthens culture, increases engagement, and builds stronger teams. Drawing on insights from The Smart Thinking Podcast, Ted will show you how to increase your own capacity to “charge into the storm” and lead with courage.

You Matter
Friday, October 10 | 10:00–11:30 AM
Do you recognize how much you matter in the lives of those around you? This keynote will inspire you with evidence of your impact, helping you see the significance of your daily work. With humor, stories, and encouragement, Ted will remind you that people in education are a big deal — and he’ll send you home energized, motivated, and ready to endure with joy. Expect to laugh, maybe shed a tear, and walk away recharged.