25th English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) & Special Education (SE) Conference

Theme: Inspired Teachers Inspire Students

We are excited to announce that KSU will host the 25th Annual ESOL/Special Education (SE) Conference on March 3-4, 2027!

Inspired teachers transform lives. They create learning environments where every student is valued, challenged, and empowered to succeed. For multilingual learners and students with disabilities, inspired teaching is especially powerful, opening doors to academic achievement, social belonging, self-advocacy, and future opportunities. This year's conference theme, “Inspired Teachers Inspire Students,” celebrates the educators whose passion, expertise, and commitment make a lasting difference in the lives of learners every day. 

ksu esol and se conference 2027 inspired teachers inspire students three kids reaching for stars

 

Expanding the reach and scope of the conference, a new strand explores the intersection of  ESOL and Special Education, offering important opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and shared learning. Effective teaching requires using evidence-based practices, leveraging technology, engaging families and communities, and responding to the unique strengths and needs of every learner. When teachers are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to thrive, students are inspired to achieve their highest potential. 

Call for Proposals

We invite proposals that highlight effective, research-informed, and innovative practices across ESOL, Special Education, and areas where these fields intersect. Sessions may address one or more of the conference strands: 

Cross-Disciplinary ESOL/SE Strand 
We particularly encourage proposals that explore the intersection of ESOL and Special Education, including:

  • Innovative use of technology
  • Science of reading

ESOL Strands 

  • Technology
    •  Innovative uses of technology and digital tools to enhance language learning and engagement, and access to content.
  • Data: Using Evidence to Guide Practice
    • Data-informed decision making, assessment, progress monitoring, and instructional planning to support multilingual learners. 
  • Pedagogy: High-Impact Practices
    • Effective instructional strategies, language-focused teaching, and approaches that accelerate student learning.
  • Community and Family Engagement
    • Building meaningful partnerships with families, communities, and stakeholders to support multilingual learners' academic and social success. 

Special Education Strands 

  • Autism
    • Research-based practices, supports, interventions, and inclusive approaches for students with autism.
  • Reading and the Science of Reading
    • Evidence-based literacy instruction, intervention, assessment, and support for diverse learners.
  • Behavior
    • Positive behavior supports, social-emotional learning, behavioral interventions, and strategies that foster student success and inclusion.

Join us in sharing ideas, research, and practices that inspire educators and students. Together, we can strengthen our profession, expand opportunities for all learners, and demonstrate how inspired teachers truly inspire students. We look forward to receiving your proposal and learning from your expertise. 
Submit your proposal by completing the form linked below and be part of a conference dedicated to inspiring educators who inspire students.

Note: Deadline for submitting a proposal is November  16, 2026.

Submit a Presentation Proposal