RTI International will host the 2026 Early College Summit on June 9–10, 2026 at the Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem, NC. This two-day event for early college leaders and program teams will focus on research-based early college and dual enrollment strategies to improve practice and support student success in rigorous learning environments. The Summit is designed so that veteran and new early college practitioners and college partners can collaborate to learn and share expertise to improve learning and student outcomes. Join us as we strengthen our capabilities to empower learners for future ready success!
How can schools better prepare students for life beyond graduation? In this session, participants will explore Wilson Academy of Applied Technology's (WAAT) innovative pathway-driven learning model designed to address common challenges such as career uncertainty, skill gaps, and limited real-world exposure.
Attendees will learn how WAAT integrates personalized learning tracks, student voice and choice, and real-world experiences into the school day. The session will highlight how pathways connect students’ interests to academic coursework, skill development, and future college and career opportunities.
Participants will also examine the role of educators as mentors and industry connectors, explore strategies for measuring student success beyond traditional metrics, and consider how this model can be adapted and scaled across diverse school settings. Through an interactive activity, attendees will apply the pathway framework to real student profiles, gaining practical insights for implementation in their own contexts.
This session supports future-ready instruction by helping educators design instruction that uses AI to deepen critical thinking and writing while preserving student agency, originality, and intellectual ownership.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly present in ELA classrooms; educators must understand how it can be used to strengthen, not replace, critical thinking and writing. I will highlight research-based principles and authentic examples demonstrating how AI use can deepen analysis, support revision, and strengthen student voice. Participants will examine student work, engage in guided discussion, and reflect on next steps for integrating AI in ways that preserve rigor and originality.
The power of any network lies in building strong connections among members. During this role-alike networking session, join peers and colleagues to connect around role-alike discussion of topics important to your work in the early college ecosystem through a facilitated networking conversation.
