February 6–9, 2027 | Tampa, FL
Whole-Child Leader
Hopeful, heart-led, hands-on.
Meet your mini agenda
There are 100+ sessions on the NPC27 agenda, and these six are hand-picked for whole-child leaders.
SUNDAY
8:30–9:30 am
01 It Starts With Us: A Practical Leadership Blueprint for Principals to Build Belonging and Prevent Burnout
Belonging isn’t a buzzword. It’s a strategy. Put a simple equation to work, identity + connection = belonging, with everyday practices that protect it without adding another initiative.
Lauren Young, EdD, Executive Director of Athletics and Activities, Vermont Principals’ Association
SUNDAY
2:15–3:15 pm
02 Ripples of Recognition: Strengthening SEL Through Core-Value Focused Leadership
Core values, on repeat. Turn positive notes, monthly themes, and advisory into SEL skills students can carry home.
Erik Lathen, Principal, Illinois Valley High School (OR)
Sabrina Miller, Principal, Lorne Byrne Middle School (OR)
Matthew Knight, Assistant Principal, North Valley High School (OR)
SUNDAY
3:30–4:30 pm
03 Connection as Prevention for “The Anxious Generation”
Reach them before a crisis does. Explore evidence-based ways to counter the student anxiety and attention crisis, drawing on The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness.
Kristi Krings, Chief Executive Officer, Rachel’s Challenge
MONDAY
2:15–3:15 pm
04 We Can Ban Phones, but Can We Teach Self-Regulation?
Because it’s so much bigger than the ban. Move beyond enforcement to help students develop self-regulation and tech habits that last.
Julia Gustafson, Chief Impact Officer, The Commons
Shannon Godfrey, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, The Commons
MONDAY
3:30–4:30 pm
05 Intentional and Purposeful Play
Big feelings hang out on the monkey bars. See how one school uses extended recess, clubs, and purposeful play to grow belonging and independence.
Tri Nguyen, EdD, Principal, Paden Elementary School (CA)
TUESDAY
8:00–10:00 am
NEW 2-HOUR WORKSHOP
06 Alongside: The Principal + Student Leadership Paradigm for Building Thriving, Belonging-Centered Schools
Lead with your students, not just for them. Gain practical tools for principal and student partnerships that strengthen culture and deepen student voice.
Kamrica Ary-Turner, Associate Director, Association of Washington School Principals
James Layman, Director, Association of Washington Student Leaders
*Session times are subject to change.
Find more of what fits
Most leaders lead in more than one way. Start with the style that suits you best, then borrow from the rest to round out your time in Tampa.
People-First Leader
Trusted, tuned-in, together.
You’re not pushing change through. You’re bringing everyone along.
Clear-Headed Leader
Calm, confident, collected.
You’re done spinning. You’re ready to steer your day (and your school).
Systems-Driven Leader
Sharp, steady, strategic.
You’re not building for this school year. You’re building for the next ten.
