2026 GAEL Summer Conference

Live. Learn. Lead.

July 12-15, 2026

Jekyll Island Convention Center, Jekyll Island

Registration for the 2026 GAEL Summer Conference Opens Monday, March 30, 2026!

Registration Fee: $715.00 (includes complimentary 2026-2027 GAEL & affiliate membership)



Call for Proposals Link

In-Person Registration Page

Livestream Registration Page

Registration for the 2026 GAEL Summer Conference will open soon, and we are excited to welcome school leaders from across Georgia for several days of professional learning, networking, and celebration of educational leadership. This year’s conference will feature inspiring keynote speakers Dr. John Delony and Marlon Styles, important updates from state education leaders including GaPSC, TRS, and GHSA, and timely insights from leaders shaping education policy in Georgia. Attendees will also hear legislative updates from Margaret Ciccarelli with PAGE, Phil Hartley’s popular “Back to School Checklist,” and updates from the Governor’s Office of Education Workforce Strategy, which is leading the state’s literacy work.

Throughout the conference, participants will have opportunities to attend engaging breakout sessions focused on leadership, professional growth, and the evolving challenges facing schools today. Sessions are organized around the conference theme Live. Learn. Lead., helping administrators strengthen their leadership skills, stay informed on key issues impacting education, and connect with peers from across the state. The conference will also feature a large GAEL Expo Hall with more than 100 companies and organizations, offering resources, tools, and services that support schools and educational leadership across Georgia.

In addition to professional learning, the GAEL Summer Conference offers several signature networking events including the Annual GAEL Golf Tournament, Low Country Boil Celebration, Dueling Pianos Concert & Reception, and Family Fun Night at the Water Park. For those looking to extend their learning, GAEL will also host a Professional Learning Day featuring in-depth sessions such as literacy updates from the Georgia Department of Education, legal updates with Cory Kirby, Hearing Officer Training, and additional specialized professional learning opportunities.

Email Ivy Young @iyoung@gael.org for more information/questions.