Education leaders from across Washington, D.C., gathered for the Council of School Officers’ (CSO), AFSA Local 4, annual convocation, “Laced Up to Lead: Stepping Into the Future.” The event brought together principals, supervisors, and administrators for a day of professional learning, networking, and inspiration.

This year’s convocation emphasized the intersections of culture, community, and change, encouraging attendees to embrace innovation while staying grounded in self-care and the shared strength of their union. 

From discussions on integrating artificial intelligence to spark educational innovation, to strategies for sustainable leadership through self-care, the convocation provided participants with tools to lead with vision, vitality, and unity. Attendees also explored ways to leverage their union’s resources for advocacy and empowerment, reinforcing the CSO’s commitment to building collective capacity among education leaders.

“This experience is more than movement—it’s a rallying call for leaders ready to shape the future of education,” said one organizer. “When we lace up, we lead forward, together.”

Professional Learning Units (PLUs) were provided for participants, ensuring the event contributed to ongoing professional development requirements.

The CSO’s “Laced Up to Lead” convocation underscored that elevating leadership happens one step at a time, powered by innovation, grounded in self-care, and strengthened by the union.

Speakers included CSO President Richard Jackson and Christine Handy, president of the Montgomery County Association of Administrators and Principals (MCAAP), AFSA Local 146, who highlighted the importance of bold, forward-thinking leadership in today’s schools.