If this is your first Educators Rising Conference or if you just want a quick refresher, the following are some tips, tools, and advice.

• Download the conference app. It has many helpful resources, such as breakout sessions, the program book, and the hotel maps.
• It’s easy to get distracted, but this conference will further your professional development. This experience is what you make it, so make the most of it.
• Competing at the national level is something to celebrate, but that’s not the only exciting activity at the conference. Check out our Senior Signing Event, Lip Sync Battle & Karaoke, and our Networking Rooms in the conference area.
• Don’t be afraid to talk to people and make new friends. This is the perfect time to connect with new people.
• People will be extremely supportive of you, even if they don’t know you. Show that same support and respect.
• Take care of yourself. Whether you’re competing, attending breakout sessions, or going to SeaWorld, be sure to hydrate and eat well.
• We are here to help! Visit the registration booth or find one of our staff members wearing a blue “Ask Me” duck button if you have any questions or concerns.
• If you see a camera, smile! We’ll be taking pictures throughout the conference to highlight our amazing attendees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find my competition schedule? You can find all competition schedules (including yours) on the conference app or the Educators Rising Membership Portal. It includes the date you’re competing, your scheduled time, and the room number.

What are the breakout sessions about? Throughout the conference, we’ll have leaders from across the nation presenting to students our strands of Leadership Training, Next Steps to a Career in Education, and Service Beyond the Classroom. For adults, there will be sessions with opportunities for networking, professional development, coaching, and more.

Who is Eddy Bear? Eddy Bear is one of our most special guests who will celebrate with certain chapters at the conference! Each day, we will be giving Eddy to a different chapter. Make sure you’re actively using the conference app so your chapter can win the chance to spend the day with Eddy Bear.

How will I know if I won in my competition? All semi-finalists and finalists are recognized at the closing general session on the last day of the conference, so be sure to attend if you competed. Semi-finalists will be shown on screen while finalists (top three in the competition) will go on stage to receive their certificate and medal. Awards will be categorized by competition and division (ex. JV Public Speaking, Varsity Public Speaking, etc.).

Can I watch competitions? The Creative Lecture, Educators Rising Moment, and Public Speaking competitions are open for spectators. Use your app to see where these competition rooms are to cheer on the competitors.