Arts Education Partnership 2026 Annual Convening
The Annual Convening brings together leaders from all levels and role groups in the arts education ecosystem working towards a shared mission of advancing arts education.
2026 AEP Annual Convening: Event Overview
Overview
The 2026 Arts Education Partnership (AEP) Annual Convening is a four-day national gathering of arts education leaders, educators, policymakers, researchers, teaching artists, nonprofit organizations, state education agencies, and advocates dedicated to advancing equitable access to high-quality arts education.
The 2026 Convening centers on creating meaningful connections across the arts education field through:
- Inspiring keynote presentations
- Interactive workshops and breakout sessions
- Panel discussions
- Networking opportunities
- Community conversations
- Collaborative problem-solving
- Celebrations of innovation and leadership in arts education
Held September 1–4, 2026, the Convening provides attendees with opportunities to learn from national experts, exchange promising practices, build partnerships, and explore strategies for expanding arts education in schools and communities.
Event Objectives
Participants will have opportunities to:
- Learn about emerging research and national trends in arts education
- Connect with educators, administrators, artists, and policymakers
- Share successful programs and innovative practices
- Explore equity-centered approaches to arts education
- Strengthen cross-sector collaborations
- Develop practical strategies to bring back to their organizations and communities
- Celebrate accomplishments across the arts education field (Arts Education Partnership)
Registration Pricing
Full Conference Registration
| Registration Period | Price |
|---|---|
| Early Bird | $500 |
| Regular | $600 |
| Late / On-site | $700 |
One-Day Registration
| Registration Period | Price |
|---|---|
| Early Bird | $250 |
| Regular | $300 |
| Late / On-site | $350 |
Student Registration
| Registration Period | Price |
|---|---|
| Student Rate | $150 |
Registration includes access to keynote sessions, educational workshops, networking events, and conference materials. Some optional events may require separate registration.
Daily Schedule
Tuesday, September 1
Opening Day
- Registration & Check-in
- Welcome Reception
- Opening General Session
- Networking Events
- Orientation for attendees
Wednesday, September 2
Learning & Collaboration
- Morning Keynote
- Concurrent Breakout Sessions
- Interactive Workshops
- Panel Discussions
- Lunch Networking
- Afternoon Learning Sessions
- Evening Community Events
Thursday, September 3
Innovation & Leadership
- General Session
- Featured Speakers
- Concurrent Workshops
- Roundtable Discussions
- Collaborative Networking Opportunities
- Special Events and Receptions
Friday, September 4
Closing Day
- Morning Sessions
- Final Breakout Workshops
- Reflection Activities
- Closing General Session
- Conference Wrap-Up
- Farewell Networking
Individual workshop times and session selections are available through the conference agenda once registered.
