CEESA Newsletter: December 2025 Edition

CEESA Newsletter: December 2025 Edition The Quiet Brilliance of December 

Dear CEESA Community,

December is often upon us before we even realize the page of the calendar has flipped. The return from the fall break rushes past in weeks of productivity, learning and focus, and then, almost as soon as we think to ask about it, December has begun with all of the culminations of learning, and events, and celebrations.  Not to mention fantastically interesting holiday sweaters.  And then we will all be off to a well deserved break.

In international schools, December holds a special kind of magic. Students who were unsure in September now take more confident steps. Classroom communities feel familiar and warm. Even more, the steady efforts of educators start to shine in deep and meaningful ways through everything from academic growth, to student character and confidence. And students find opportunities to showcase all of this confidence and achievement as well as enjoy their time together through celebration.

Growth is not always loud. Often, it appears in small moments:  a student might ask a question for the first time; a colleague might share a new idea; a team may finally find its stride after weeks of careful work. Things begin to feel right and these quiet victories can be felt this month in its depth and warmth.

As winter break approaches, we hope you find a moment to pause. This is a good time to reflect on how far you and your school community have come. The world around us moves quickly, but the December break gives us a chance to slow down and breathe. It also gives us space to appreciate the important work that happens in between the larger milestones.

Thank you for the light you bring to your schools each day. Your impact may not always be obvious in the day to day, but it is steady and profound. We hope this season brings you rest, renewal, and a sense of calm.

CEESA in Action: November Highlights

Across the CEESA region, educators spent November and early December learning, connecting, and sharing ideas. UDL workshops, Job-A-Likes, and small professional gatherings offered practical strategies and sparked meaningful conversations. These moments reminded us that even during a busy season, our community continues to grow through collaboration, curiosity, and the steady commitment to improving learning for every student.

CEESA 2026 Conference – Sofia Update

The CEESA 2026 Conference in Sofia is coming soon, and momentum is building across our community. From March 12–14, 2026, educators and leaders will gather in Sofia for three days of learning, connection, and inspiration. This year’s theme, The Heart and Art of Teaching, celebrates the blend of skill, creativity, and humanity that defines our profession.

Pre-Conference Sessions

We are pleased to announce that the conference will open with several focused pre-conference sessions at the Anglo-American School of Sofia designed to deepen learning and spark meaningful conversations. These sessions offer hands-on opportunities to explore new ideas, strengthen leadership, and build practical strategies for immediate use in schools.

• Garfield Gini-Newman – Deep Learning That Transfers Through Sustained Critical Inquiry
• Kathleen Naglee – Leadership is a Relationship, Not a Role
• April Remfrey – Creating Adaptive and Engaging Primary Learning Environments through UDL Principles
• Myron Dueck –  Presenting with Purpose – A ‘behind the scenes’ look at delivering an effective and meaningful message
• Kristin Moffitt and Paula de Leon Diaz – Positive Behavior Supports and Strategies in the Classroom
• Introduction to NEASC, ACE Learning and Visitor Competencies
• Librarians Job-A-Like
• Secondary Principals Job-A-Like
• Athletic Directors Spring meeting

Keynote Speakers

This year’s keynote speakers bring powerful experience and diverse perspectives to the CEESA 2026.

Keynote Speakers:

• Lindsie Boykin, Founder and CEO, Leaders Need Systems LLC
• Garfield Gini-Newman, Associate Professor, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education
• Lauren Jones, Founder, Lauren Jones Consulting
• Dominique Smith, Principal, Health Sciences High and Middle College

Featured Speakers

Alongside the keynote presenters, our invited featured speakers will lead interactive sessions that highlight best practices, emerging research, and classroom-ready strategies:

Will Coman | Paula de Leon Diaz | Myron Dueck | Ewan McIntosh | Kristin Moffitt | Kathleen Naglee | Azra Pathan | April Remfrey

Their collective expertise will help us explore the art of teaching from multiple angles, ensuring that every participant leaves with practical tools and renewed inspiration.

Conference Registration – Don’t Miss This Event!

Registration for the CEESA 2026 Conference in Sofia is open, and this is your moment to secure your place. This conference brings together the people, ideas, and inspiration that shape international education across our region. 

It is a rare chance to learn with leading experts, connect with colleagues from dozens of CEESA schools, and return to your campus with practical strategies you can use right away.

Spaces will fill quickly, especially for pre-conference sessions and featured workshops. Therefore, we encourage you to register early and make sure you do not miss one of the most meaningful professional learning events of the year. 

Bring a colleague, meet new thought  partners, and be part of the energy that makes CEESA such a vibrant community.

Register for the CEESA 2026 Conference!

Exhibitor and Sponsor Registration – Your Moment to Stand Out

We are thrilled to invite exhibitors and sponsors to join us at the CEESA 2026 Conference in Sofia. This event is one of the most influential gatherings in international education across our region. It brings together school leaders, decision-makers, innovators, and educators who are actively shaping the future of learning.

By becoming an exhibitor or sponsor, you gain direct access to a committed and engaged audience. You also have the chance to showcase your products, services, and ideas to the very people who can bring them into schools. Many of our partners tell us that CEESA conferences create conversations and connections that last well beyond the event itself.

Spaces this year are limited, and they fill quickly. If your organization wants visibility, connection, and impact, this is the moment to step forward. Do not miss the opportunity to be part of a conference that values collaboration, innovation, and meaningful partnerships.

Register as an Exhibitor

Become a Sponsor

**Exhibitor and sponsor spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

With Gratitude to Our Sponsors

We extend a warm thank-you to our CEESA VIP sponsors for their ongoing partnership and commitment to international education. Your support helps us build events that spark connection, elevate professional learning, and strengthen schools throughout our region. We are grateful for your belief in our mission and for the important role you play in bringing the CEESA 2026 Conference to life.

Upcoming CEESA Events in 2026

Below is a quick guide to CEESA’s key professional learning events planned for 2026. Each event offers a focused opportunity to connect, grow, and bring fresh ideas back to your school community.

Be sure to check ou the full CEESA Professional Learning Events and Calendar – here.

Looking forward to seeing you at one of the next CEESA event!