MDE Back to School Conference 2026
Minneapolis Marriott NW
7025 Northland Drive NorthBrooklyn Park, MN 55428-1506
United States
Kick Off the School Year with Energy & Insight!
Gather your leadership team and join colleagues from across Minnesota as we launch into a new school year — together.
As summer winds down and planning ramps up, there’s no better way to prepare for the year ahead than with a day dedicated to learning, collaboration, and fresh perspective.
We’re excited to welcome you to the Annual MDE Back to School Conference, where you’ll:
✅ Participate in timely, relevant breakout sessions designed for district leadership teams
✅ Receive important legislative and policy updates impacting your work
✅ Hear directly from state education leaders about priorities and expectations for the year ahead
This is your opportunity to connect, align your team, and set a strong, strategic tone for the new school year. Come ready to engage, collaborate, and leave energized for the work ahead.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations received on or before July 27, 2026 will receive a refund minus a $75 cancellation fee. No refunds will be issued after this date.
Agenda
| August 4 | |
| 7:30 AM - 8:00 AM | Registration & Breakfast |
| 8:00 AM - 9:15 AM | General Session Join us in the Northland Ballroom as we open the conference with remarks from Commissioner Willie Jett and MASA Executive Director Matt Hillman. The Governor is also expected to join us, schedule permitting. |
| 9:15 AM - 2:00 PM | Resource Tables Available Visit with MDE staff from various departments at resource tables in the Northland Foyer. Attendees are encouraged to stop by, ask questions, and connect with department representatives. |
| 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM | Breakout Sessions Choose from a variety of breakout sessions led by MDE staff, held in multiple rooms and focused on timely, relevant topics for district leaders. |
| 10:35 AM - 11:35 AM | Breakout Sessions Choose from a variety of breakout sessions led by MDE staff, held in multiple rooms and focused on timely, relevant topics for district leaders. |
| 11:35 AM - 12:30 PM | Lunch & Resource Table Exploration Enjoy lunch while connecting with colleagues and exploring MDE resource tables in the Northland Foyer. Take this time to ask questions and engage with department staff. |
| 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM | Breakout Sessions Choose from a variety of breakout sessions led by MDE staff, held in multiple rooms and focused on timely, relevant topics for district leaders. |
| 1:45 PM - 3:00 PM | General Session: Legislative Panel Close the day with a panel of education and policy leaders who bring deep expertise from the Capitol. Panelists will share insights on the legislative landscape, reflect on recent developments, and discuss what lies ahead for Minnesota schools. |
We are pleased to offer a special group rate for attendees of the MDE Back to School Conference, taking place August 4, 2026.
Stay at the Minneapolis Marriott Northwest for the exclusive rate of $169 per night.
This rate is available until Monday, July 13, 2026, or until the room block is full.
Featured State Leaders
Hear directly from leaders shaping education across Minnesota:
Commissioner Willie Jett
Minnesota Department of Education
Matt Hillman
Executive Director, MASA
Afternoon Legislative Panel
Gain insight from experienced education and policy leaders as they reflect on the legislative session and what lies ahead for Minnesota schools.