Make Your Case to Attend

In a world of rapidly developing technology and artificial intelligence (AI), professional development is more important than ever for ELA educators.

This year we’re opening registration for the NCTE Annual Convention in March to allow teachers and administrators to work together to find funding for the premier annual event for English language arts and literacy educators.

Need some help convincing your administrator you should attend #NCTE26? Here are some tips and even examples of language you can use to convince them how important this opportunity is for you, your students, and your school.

Plan Your Budget

You can get a very clear picture of exactly how much this event will cost by looking at the Registration and Hotel & Travel pages of the website. Generally, rooms in Philadelphia range from $225 to $300 per night. Flights generally range between $200 and $400 within the continental US, and there are plenty of ground transportation options as well. With a clear budget, administrators get a clear sense of what you are asking for immediately.

State your case formally and intentionally. Lift up the anticipated impact that attending will have on your practice and how you can bring that back to your colleagues by sharing key takeaways from the #NCTE26 Convention. With greater knowledge and skills, new levels of student achievement can be unlocked.

Download the Funding Request Template

Use our customizable template to formally request professional development funding from your school or district.

Consider an informal inquiry.

Example: “The NCTE Annual Convention is taking place this November in Philadelphia; it’s the premier professional learning opportunity available for ELA educators (more information here). Attending is a way for me to meet leading teacher voices, research scholars, and authors to continue my growth in service of students and literacy. Can we find funds to support this important experience for me?”

If not approved for full funding/reimbursement, propose partial support.

Example: “I understand that fully funding this opportunity is not possible. Would you consider partially funding this PD for me so I could still attend?”

Ask if special funding has increased the allocation toward professional learning in your department.

Example: “I know that certain funds can be used for professional development and have deadlines. Has the allotment for our department changed as the result of these funds?”

Scholarships

NCTE Convention Scholarship opportunities are available. More information on scholarships will be available soon.

Crowdfunding

Get creative and use crowdfunding sources to cover registration. The support for getting teachers the professional learning and experiences they deserve is out there. Share your journey to #NCTE26 and make your needs known. You never know who is waiting in the wings to support teachers and their students.