CTE Teacher Conference 2026

Welcome back to a brand-new school year! Join fellow CTE educators at the CTU Foundation for a kickoff session to start the day. You'll hear brief remarks from CPS Deputy Armando Rodriguez and CTU's Michael Moriarty as they celebrate your essential work, share updates on CTE priorities, and set a positive, collaborative tone for the school year ahead

Beyond the hype, what does Artificial Intelligence actually mean for our staff, students, and schools? Hosted by the CPS AI Team, this session cuts through the noise to build shared language and understanding around the technology that is changing the world around us. We'll discuss core definitions, exciting and concerning use cases to pay attention to, key impact considerations, and ongoing CPS AI initiatives. Attendees will leave with a clear picture of approved tools and district guidance. Note: Attending this foundational session or completing the AI Foundations Badge is strongly recommended to attend future trainings on tool applications or other District AI resources.

Beyond the hype, what does Artificial Intelligence actually mean for our staff, students, and schools? Hosted by the CPS AI Team, this session cuts through the noise to build shared language and understanding around the technology that is changing the world around us. We'll discuss core definitions, exciting and concerning use cases to pay attention to, key impact considerations, and ongoing CPS AI initiatives. Attendees will leave with a clear picture of approved tools and district guidance. Note: Attending this foundational session or completing the AI Foundations Badge is strongly recommended to attend future trainings on tool applications or other District AI resources.

Industry certifications play a crucial role in validating student skills, boosting resumes, and opening doors to high-wage careers after graduation. In this practical session, CTE educators will explore the overall value of industry credentials for students and programs, while walking step-by-step through how to accurately track and input them in SchooLinks. You will learn the process for entering student certifications, best practices for maintaining clean data, and how keeping these records updated in SchooLinks ensures your students receive recognition for their achievements while highlighting your program's impact.

Join fellow METT educators for a collaborative deep dive into program enhancement and instructional strategy. This breakout session provides dedicated space to explore emerging industry trends, review pathway-specific resources, and share proven instructional methods. Participants will collaborate with peers across the district and leave with a refreshed set of tools to elevate student engagement and pathway completion.