Introducing the Inaugural WLC Educator Symposium: Transforming Tomorrow by Making Bold Moves Today

Education is the cornerstone of our future, and at the heart of every impactful classroom is an educator who is passionate, informed, and connected.

This June, the Wilmington Learning Collaborative is inviting over 200 educators from across the city to come together for the inaugural WLC Educator Symposium: Transforming Tomorrow by Making Bold Moves Today. Held June 17–18 at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, this free two-day event is designed to inspire and empower educators while strengthening professional networks across Wilmington schools.

Teachers from all disciplines, along with school leaders and education professionals, will gather for a shared experience that includes keynote speakers, breakout sessions, hands-on workshops, wellness activities, and meaningful opportunities to connect. The agenda, informed by our ongoing work and conversations with WLC educators, reflects the needs and aspirations of those working in Wilmington classrooms every day.

WLC Executive Director, Dr. Laura Burgos, who will provide opening remarks at the symposium, shares her vision for the event and how it was created especially for Wilmington’s educators.

“Transforming Tomorrow is all about taking action,” she said. “We’ve listened to what our educators want and need, and this event is designed to give them the tools, support, and connections to make a real impact in their classrooms and communities. This is where bold moves start, and we’re excited to see how it will shape the future of education in Wilmington.”

From exploring instructional strategies to engaging in wellness programming and hearing directly from students in a dedicated panel discussion, the symposium will offer tools, perspectives, and support to help educators grow, recharge, and continue making a difference in their schools and communities.

What You Can Expect

Recognizing the demands of the profession, Transforming Tomorrow by Making Bold Moves Today is designed to provide the resources, encouragement, and renewal educators need to stay grounded and energized in their work.

The event will feature inspiring keynote addresses, expert-led breakout sessions, and hands-on workshops with practical tools and strategies educators can put into practice right away. There will also be wellness programming to support educators’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being

Two Themed Days of Inspiration and Growth

To ensure that the symposium addresses the full spectrum of educational needs, each day of the event is focused on a different theme:

• Day 1: Connected Schools
  The first day is dedicated to the power of collaboration and connectivity within schools. It will explore how schools can build stronger, more meaningful connections with students, families, and the broader community. Sessions will focus on fostering a culture of engagement, boosting student retention, and ensuring academic success through community partnerships.
• Day 2: Students-First
  On the second day, the focus will shift to student-centered education. The symposium will delve into evidence-based strategies that prioritize the needs of students, particularly those who face systemic barriers. Topics will include using data to drive decisions, creating inclusive learning environments, and developing strategies to meet the diverse needs of students in today’s classroom. The goal is to ensure that every student, regardless of background, is set up for success.

Meet The Keynotes & Speakers

The symposium will feature influential voices from the education sector who are redefining what it means to teach, lead, and innovate in today’s educational landscape. These keynotes will offer invaluable insights on everything from policy reform to teaching practices and leadership strategies:

• Cindy Marten – As Deputy Secretary of Education, Cindy Marten brings a wealth of experience in educational equity and policy. Her remarks will focus on how equitable funding practices and resource allocation can ensure that all students have access to quality education, regardless of their circumstances.
• Sharif El-Mekki – A leader in the movement to reform education for Black and Brown students, Sharif El-Mekki’s keynote will share his insights into how educators can dismantle systemic inequities and create schools that truly prioritize students’ needs and success.
• Dr. Tony B. Watlington Sr. – As Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, Dr. Watlington will share his vision for transformational educational leadership. His keynote will focus on how strategic leadership decisions can drive equity, improve student outcomes, and create sustainable pathways for success for all learners.
• Dr. Ivory A. Toldson – An expert in educational data and its role in shaping student outcomes, Dr. Toldson’s keynote will discuss how understanding data can be a powerful tool in advancing student achievement, particularly for underrepresented groups.

Workshops & Breakout Sessions

Throughout the two-day event, participants can choose from various breakout sessions that focus on practical skills and strategies for the classroom. From classroom management techniques to creating inclusive lesson plans, there will be plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. Workshops will also be hands-on, allowing educators to actively engage with the material and explore innovative teaching methods.

Wellness Programming for Educators

Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge. It’s about nurturing minds, hearts, and futures. Recognizing this, the symposium integrates wellness programming into its schedule. Educators will have the opportunity to participate in activities that support mental health, promote relaxation, and build resilience.

Networking Opportunities

One of the most powerful aspects of the WLC Educator Symposium is the chance to connect with colleagues from across the region. In addition to the formal sessions, the symposium will include dedicated time for networking, allowing attendees to exchange ideas, discuss common challenges, and forge meaningful partnerships. Whether during a lunch break, in a breakout group, or at one of the evening events, this will be a space to build lasting professional relationships that extend far beyond the symposium.

The Countdown Is On—We Can’t Wait to See You at The Symposium!

Transforming Tomorrow by Making Bold Moves Today is more than just an event. It’s a chance to reignite your passion for teaching, expand your professional toolkit, and connect with a community of educators working toward better student outcomes.

Dr. Burgos emphasizes, “This isn’t your typical conference. We’ve created an event that’s driven by educators, for educators. It’s about rolling up our sleeves and tackling the challenges we face head-on. I encourage you to join us if you’re looking for practical solutions, real conversations, and a community of educators committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for our students.”

We look forward to seeing you in June, ready to learn, grow, and make an impact on the future of education.