Registration is open for the 2026 THRIVE Conference happening Sept. 16-17, at the Jackson Convention Complex in Jackson, Mississippi. Go to registration details. Two pre-conference events are planned for Tuesday, Sept. 15.
2026 THRIVE is the Mississippi Department of Education’s Office of Federal Programs annual conference designed to provide Federal Programs Directors, school and district administrators, instructional leaders, teachers, and support staff with programmatic updates, research-based instructional practices, and professional development related to the implementation of programs authorized under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA).
The two full days will offer interactive sessions that support effective implementation of ESEA-funded programs and improve student outcomes. Sessions will emphasize practical application, evidence-based practices, and tools that participants can use in schools and districts.
This year’s topics include:
- Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) -
- Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
- Mental Health
- Family and Community Engagement (FACE)
- Physical and Emotional Health
- Homeless Children and Youth
- English Learners (EL)
- Trauma Informed Care
- Academic Interventions
- Artificial Intelligence for Educators/Students
- Workforce Development
This year, there will be two pre-conference events on Tuesday, September 15.
- EDGAR 101 is for new Federal Programs Directors, SPED Director, and CTE Directors that have 11 months or less in the job.
- EL Combine is a dedicated learning experience focused on providing targeted support for English Learner (EL) staff at both the local education agency (LEA) and school levels. The purpose of the EL Combine is to strengthen participants’ understanding of Language Instruction Educational Programs (LIEPs) and the essential components required for successful implementation.