Principals’ Network Conference 2026

Principals, we invite you to join us at the 2026 ArtsNOW Principals' Network Conference. Whether you are new to arts integration or refining your work, this conference is designed to support school leaders.

Dates: February 26-27, 2026
Location: Marriott Savannah Riverfront, 100 General McIntosh Blvd., Savannah, GA 31401
Registration Cost: $250 (plus accommodation)

Our conference offers a unique opportunity for principals at every stage of their arts integration journey to build creative connections, exchange ideas with colleagues, and uncover new possibilities for their schools.

• Connect Through Collaboration: Participate in interactive sessions that inspire innovative approaches to arts integration, strengthening the creative fabric of your school community.
• Learn from Visionary Leaders: Gain insights from experienced principals who have successfully connected leadership, creativity, and learning to achieve meaningful results.
• Discover New Pathways: Explore arts-integrated strategies and resources that help connect classroom experiences with broader goals for student success.
• Empower Your Leadership: Engage in hands-on learning that equips you with practical tools and connections to foster a culture of creativity across your school.

What to Expect:
Thursday, February 26, 4:30 – 6:30 pm – Evening Networking Reception for all attendees
Friday, February 27, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm – Full day of conference sessions, including a keynote from James Wells of Crayola. Catered lunch will be included during the conference day.

Plan to be inspired by James Wells as he blends creativity and insight to ignite fresh ideas, spark meaningful connections, and reimagine what’s possible through the arts. With experience spanning classrooms, districts, and international collaborations, he empowers leaders to reimagine what’s possible through the arts. A respected leader in arts education, James earned recognition as the 2022 Tennessee Art Educator of the Year while guiding Fine Arts instruction for Shelby County Schools in Memphis and helping shape the state’s art standards. His leadership extends beyond Crayola through his roles as Board President of the Tennessee Art Education Association, board trustee for the National Art Education Foundation, and advisory board member for the Arts Education Partnership. He continues his mission to build creative connections that inspire lasting impact in education.

Inspiring Experience

Last year, over 50 administrators and educational leaders attended our conference, which included 36 schools from 18 districts. In our survey after the event, EVERY respondent strongly agreed:

• The opportunity to network with others was beneficial.
• The content was informative.
• The event was well organized.
• The overall experience was useful and worth my time.
• I would attend this event in the future.

Here’s what administrators said about their experience:

“Great experience! 12 out of 10 would recommend!”

 

“Your events are always so organized!”

 

“The conference provides reflective time regarding our implementation of arts integration.”

 

“This was a well prepared and valuable collaboration opportunity.”

 

“I love ArtsNOW – this conference is always beneficial and inspiring! Thank you!”

 

“My favorite conference of the year!”