2026 Early College Summit: Full Schedule

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!

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8:30am EDT

Breaking Down Barriers: How Texas Regional Collectives Are Transforming Dual Credit

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT

Winston 1A

In this session, Texas school and higher education leaders will discuss their journey to enhance dual credit pathway programs. This collaborative group has strengthened existing programs and engaged every educational level from K-12 to state agencies.

Our facilitator will guide panelists in exploring how regional collectives strengthen dual credit pathways and four-year programs. [Original focus was on Teacher Preparation.] Panelists include leaders from school districts, community colleges, bachelor's programs, and Educate Texas, a statewide organization advancing public education reform.

This session provides foundational strategies to help participants establish regional learning communities and streamline academic pathways for all students.

Presenters

Joseph Reyes

Deputy Director, Teaching & Leading, Educate Texas

Cornelius Anderson

Maegan Collins

Department Chair of General Education and Developmental Studies at Lamar Institute of Technology, Lamar Institute of Technology

Patricia Parker

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Winston 1A

Partnerships

9:45am EDT

Ethical AI in Education: A Design Thinking Sprint

Wednesday June 10, 2026 9:45am - 11:15am EDT

Winston 1A

Teachers and instructional leaders, join us for a transformative workshop wherewe'll delve into the ethical and equitable implications of AI in education. Through acollaborative design thinking process, participants will explore the potential benefits andchallenges of AI integration and develop innovative solutions to address critical issues.

Presenters

Dee Lanier

Lead Learning Experience Designer, Lanier Learning, LLC

Wednesday June 10, 2026 9:45am - 11:15am EDT
Winston 1A

Innovative Instruction

12:40pm EDT

From Planning to Purpose: Building Future-Ready Students with Digital Comprehensive Academic Portfolios (CAPs)

Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm EDT

Winston 1A

This session showcases a digital CAP system designed to help early college students reflect on growth, organize academic and extracurricular data, and plan for college and career pathways. Participants will explore how CAPs integrate state-required Career Development Plans, promote student agency, and strengthen advising practices. Through examples, artifacts, and practical strategies, attendees will gain actionable ideas for implementing a student-centered, scalable portfolio system that supports postsecondary readiness, engagement, and success.

Presenters

Willoughby Newcomb

School Counselor, Duplin Early College High School

Willoughby Newcomb is a certified school counselor at Duplin Early College High School in North Carolina and the founder of Whole Journey Navigation LLC, a consulting practice focused on academic planning, career development, and postsecondary transitions. She holds a Master of Arts... Read More →

Michael Schramm

English Teacher, Duplin Early College High School

Michael Schramm arrived to Duplin Early College High School in November of 2022. Prior formative instructional experiences include: teaching English Language & Composition with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School system (3 years); mentoring Chinese nationals enrolled in language immersion... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm EDT
Winston 1A

Leadership