2026 Winter Institute & Lobby Day

The 2026 Winter Institute & Lobby Day, organized by The New York State Council of School Superintendents (NYSCOSS) through its foundation LEAF, Inc., is an annual event offering exceptional professional development for school leaders, focusing on educational administration. The conference features keynote addresses by national experts in leadership, education, and advocacy, opportunities for members to share best practices, and interactive discussions with the Commissioner of Education regarding New York State issues and initiatives. Attendees can expect extensive networking opportunities, group discussions, meetings, and workshops. The event also hosts an exhibit hall where companies and organizations can connect with school leaders from across New York State. The theme for 2026 is 'Advancing Innovation: Empowering Transformation for Leading & Learning,' exploring visionary leadership, innovative learning models, and collaborative innovation. The agenda includes professional learning Pre-Institutes on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and a superintendents' wellness retreat, sessions specifically designed for New Superintendents and Early Career Superintendents, an awards ceremony, book signings, a 'Marketplace of Ideas' showcasing educational tools, and connections with key staff from the New York State Education Department. The event also provides guidance for advocacy efforts, including detailed lobby day memos for meetings with legislators.