School Planning Conference 2026

Welcome to the School Planning Conference 2026!

Date: Tue Jun 23, 2026

Time: 8:30 AM

Location: The Westshore Grand, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Tampa

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📅 Conference Agenda Highlights

Our multi-track program is designed to provide hands-on skills and strategic insights.

Track A: GIS & SchoolSite Hands-on

• Day 1 (June 23): Focus on navigation, setting up project environments, and best practices for data hygiene and geocoding.
• Day 2 (June 24): Advanced sessions on building redistricting scenarios, optimizing for transportation and diversity, and integrating 3rd party data like municipal zoning.
• Day 3 (June 25): Deep dives into drive-time analysis, data visualization for Board presentations, and a "Bring Your Own District" open lab.
• Day 4 (June 26): Half day lab.

Track B: K12 Forecasting / Planning

• Demographic Fundamentals: Deep dives into the Cohort-Survival method and calculating student yields from new housing developments.
• Long-Range Strategy: Sessions on 10-year facility master planning and analyzing how private/charter schools impact enrollment forecasts.
• Future Trends: Exploring the role of AI and predictive analytics in student population forecasting.

Track C: Capacity & Safety

• Utilization Metrics: Methodologies for calculating functional vs. design capacity and identifying under-utilized facilities.
• Community & Equity: Strategies for facilitating town halls and ensuring facility decisions do not disproportionately affect subgroups.
• School Safety (Friday): A special deep dive into digital and behavioral threat assessments and modern security technology.

🌴 Evening & Local Exploration

• Thursday Night Social: Join us on June 25 from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM for a dedicated networking social to connect with peers.
• World-Class Shopping: The hotel is a 2-minute walk from Westshore Plaza and 3 minutes by car to International Plaza.
• Local Brews: Visit the celebrated Cigar City Brewing, located just 1.5 miles (about 3 minutes) away.
• Outdoor Breaks: Take a quick trip to Cypress Point Park for scenic bayside trails and fresh air.

🏨 At the Hotel: Relaxation & Refinement

Between workshops and networking, take advantage of the sophisticated amenities at our host site:

• Rooftop Pool: Visit the 9th floor for a refreshing dip or panoramic views of the Tampa skyline.
• Signature Dining: Enjoy world-class steak at Shula’s Steak House (on-site) or grab an Italian espresso at the illy Caffe.
• The No Name Lounge: This chic space features five plasma-screen TVs and is the perfect spot for catching up on sports or post-conference networking.
• Wellness: Stay on track with your routine at the 24-hour state-of-the-art health club.