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EAST CONFERENCE 2026

March 17-19, 2026

Logo by Anna Beth Smith & Tamar Farmer
of Nettleton STEAM Intermediate

Signature Sessions

Signature Sessions at EAST Conference are for registered EAST students and facilitators who want to learn about new technologies or elevate their understanding. These sessions provide a great chance to explore fresh ideas and skills.

Signature Sessions, available on Wednesday, March 18, and Thursday, March 19, are short professional development opportunities for students and facilitators. We will have a variety of sessions offered over the two days. Each Signature Session will be presented in person, and some sessions will also be livestreamed or recorded for future viewing. These session formats will provide varied methods of learning:

  • Demonstration: Speaker demonstration. Primarily, one-way interaction between the presenter(s) and the audience. The length of these sessions will be 1 hour.
  • Fireside Chat: An informative conversation that addresses the EAST experience. These sessions are not dependent on technology. The length of these sessions will be 1 hour.
  • Panel: Interactive Q&A session with a moderator and multiple subject matter experts. The length of these sessions will be 1 hour.
  • TED-Ed: Thank you for coming to my TED Talk… These sessions will tell the EAST story from the perspective of the students who are currently living it. The length of these sessions will be 20 minutes.
  • Tech Hub:This is an open forum where students and facilitators can come to have their tech questions answered. There will be open demonstrations happening throughout the day. This session will be come-and-go style and open throughout the conference.

There is no pre-registration process for Signature Sessions. Sessions will be available to view on the website at the end of February.

  • Signature Sessions are open to EAST students and facilitators with a Full Access Pass.
  • Seating will open 10 minutes before each session; arrive early to secure your seat.
  • Seating capacities for Signature Session rooms are shown on the Signature Session Schedule.
  • Two rooms will be livestreamed. Each school will receive an access code for the livestreamed sessions WITH their in-person registration. This is an option for EAST students who want to participate in EAST Conference but are not members of the school's conference team.
  • Students can “Favorite” any Signature Session they want to attend on their My Planner page. While this does not reserve a seat for a student, it aids in schedule building. Simply select “Favorite” next to a session, and the listing will be highlighted for easier viewing.

This year, we will be hosting TED-Ed Student Talks as a part of Signature Sessions! Students from across the world of EAST are invited to apply to tell their stories. The biggest impact is often created from the smallest acts; your experience matters and could be the spark that inspires others.

Students selected to give a TED-Ed Student Talk will be assigned a coach and the resources to help craft their story. At the 2026 EAST Conference, students will share their 15-minute presentation during a Signature Session.

This is perfect for any student who has grown during their time as an EAST student and is looking to push themselves further. No previous public speaking experience is required.

  • 12/16/25 - 1/16/26

    Student Talk Applications

  • 1/19/26

    Student Talk Selection Announcement

  • 1/21/26 - 2/23/26

    Student Talk Development

  • 2/27/26

    Student Talk resources due

What to expect in the Student Talk Development stage, if selected for TED-Ed Student Talks:

Week 1 - 2: Discover what a TED Talk is. Identify your ideas and discover how to define your main idea.

Week 3 - 4: Develop your story and begin scripting your talk.

Week 5: Prepare to share your story at your TED Ed Student Talk

Ted-Ed Presenter Application

Tech Hub

This year, TSG will be hosting its own space! Drop in to catch a tech demo that may include repairs, exploration, or just something new. The Leadership Tech Support Team will also be here to answer your tech questions and help with minor repairs.

If you are interested in your broken equipment being repaired or examined during one of these micro sessions, please complete the form below.

Apply to Bring Equipment

EASTxp

We’re inviting exhibitors to move beyond swag and brochures. Instead, create an experience. Whether it’s a mini design challenge, hands-on product demo, or a skill-based activity that utilizes technology aligned with students’ classroom experiences, we aim for exhibitor booths to be a destination for exploration.

Etiquette Reminders

  1. Be Punctual.

    Remember that Signature Session space is limited, and admission will be on a first-come, first-served basis. For this reason, we advise attendees to show up ahead of schedule for all Signature Sessions. Late arrivals can be disruptive to the audience and speaker and may not be allowed.

  2. Stay for the Entire Session.

    Make a commitment to staying engaged for the duration of each Signature Session. Avoid early exits, which may disrupt the flow of conversation and distract other attendees.

  3. Minimize Distractions.

    Be aware of your physical presence. Ensure that you are giving others enough space to be comfortable, and avoid blocking views of the presentation.

  4. Engage Thoughtfully.

    Participate in discussions when appropriate and ask relevant questions. By actively contributing to your session, you will make the experience better for everyone involved!.

  5. Network Appropriately.

    Take advantage of opportunities to socialize and make friends during breaks rather than during your session. It is important to respect your presenter's time and the time of your fellow attendees.

By following these general etiquette guidelines, you can contribute to a positive and respectful environment during this year’s Signature Sessions.