Ideas that Illuminate

As English language arts educators, researchers, and leaders, we are navigating an era of rapid change and emerging possibilities. The 2026 NCTE Annual Convention theme—Imagine. Innovate. Inspire.—is an opportunity for us to think collectively about the future of ELA.

What if we reimagined ELA teaching and learning through the lens of limitless possibility? Consider the insights we could gain by asking: "How are we tapping into imagination and creativity as tools for students to see themselves as lifelong readers, writers, and communicators?" What strategies have you found that work? What stories would you share?

Literacy is a catalyst for critical inquiry, creative expression, and collaborative media-making about ideas and experiences that matter most to our students. The Annual Convention is an opportunity to share impactful practices that encourage students to be creative risk-takers as they grow their reading and writing skills and practices in the digital age.

We are teaching and learning during a time when many educators would like to go beyond the required curriculum and position the standards as the starting place, not the finish line. This Convention is a chance to show others what is possible.

The Convention theme challenges us to think expansively. It calls us to envision ELA across preK–12 classrooms, higher education, libraries, and community partners as places for dynamic, inclusive, and transformative learning.

Join us at the 2026 NCTE Annual Convention to share how you are fostering innovation and inspiring a new generation of thinkers.