Name: From First Hello to Final Goodbye: Building Student Belonging That Sticks
Start: 2026-06-10T08:30:00-0400
End: 2026-06-10T09:30:00-0400

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!

From First Hello to Final Goodbye: Building Student Belonging That Sticks

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

Winston 3C

Belonging changes everything. When students feel known, valued, and connected, they show up differently, and so does their learning. This session invites educators to reimagine how schools intentionally create a sense of belonging that begins before students ever arrive and grows stronger with each passing year. Participants will explore meaningful ways to welcome students, build shared traditions, and design experiences that connect students across grade levels and milestones. With a focus on purpose and continuity, this session offers inspiration and practical strategies to build systems where every student feels they truly belong from their first day to graduation and beyond.

Presenters

Vance Fishback

Principal, Cabarrus Early College of Technology

Vance Fishback is a veteran educational leader with more than 30 years of experience in public education with a strong background in Early College High School design, launch, and leadership. He has served the last 10 years as the Founding Principal of the Cabarrus Early College o... Read More →

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Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Winston 3C

Student Supports