InterAct 2026 Proposal Overview

Suggested Topics:

Track 1: CLASS Foundations & Expertise

This track is for observers, new coaches, and anyone wanting to deepen their core understanding of the CLASS® tool, accurate rating, and the foundational research.

Sample Session Topics:

• • • • Deep dives into CLASS domains and dimensions
      • Research behind interactions and child outcomes
      • Staying Calibrated: Strategies to Maintain Observer Accuracy and Confidence
      • Using CLASS to Support Individual Needs in the Classroom

Track 2: Coaching for Transformative Impact

This track focuses on actionable strategies and advanced techniques for coaches to drive real change in classrooms and programs.

Sample Session Topics:

• • • • Data-Driven Coaching: Using CLASS Data to Inform Professional Development Plans
      • Strategies for Challenging Coaching Conversations & Building Educator Buy-In
      • Adapting Coaching Approaches to Fit Educator Backgrounds and Program Models
      • Supporting state coaching competencies and coaching certification systems
      • "Coach the Coaches": Developing Your Skills as a PD Provider
      • Reflective Coaching Conversations That Build Trust and Growth
      • Leveraging Technology: Using Technology in your program for Effective Coaching

Track 3: CLASS Across Settings
This track explores the application of CLASS in various unique environments and for diverse populations.
Sample Session Topics:

• • • • Infant-Toddler CLASS 2nd Edition Deep Dive: Mastering Interactions for the Youngest Learners
      • Supporting Children with Disabilities
      • Family Engagement: Strengthening Parent-Teacher Interactions
      • CLASS in Family Child Care: Implementing Quality in Home-Based Programs
      • Extending CLASS into K–3: Supporting Early Elementary Classrooms
        

Track 4: Continuous Quality Improvement & Outcomes
This track focuses on using CLASS data and principles for systematic program improvement and demonstrating impact on child outcomes.

Sample Session Topics:

• • • • Building a Culture for Continuous Improvement: Mindset & Organizational Strategies
      • Designing Data Visualizations to Support CQI: Making CLASS Data Actionable
      • Connecting CLASS to Academic Outcomes: Literacy & Kindergarten Readiness Strategies
      • Integrating Social-Emotional and Academic Support with CLASS
      • From Observation to Action: Using CLASS Data to Drive Program-Wide Improvement
      • Positive Interactions & Proactive Behavior Management: A CLASS Approach
      • Using CLASS to Strengthen Workforce Support and Retention
      • Aligning CLASS with Local Quality Rating Systems and Accreditation Goals

Track 5: Strategic Partnerships & Advocacy 

This track is for leaders, administrators, and policy advocates interested in scaling CLASS, securing resources, and building broader support for quality interactions.

Sample Session Topics:

• • • • Scaling CLASS in State Systems: Lessons Learned & Best Practices from Across the Nation
      • Advocating for Quality Interactions: The Role of Policy Makers & Strategic Communication
      • Securing Funding for CLASS Initiatives: Grant Writing & Partnership Development
      • Navigating Political Climates: Strategizing to Champion Early Childhood Quality
      • Strengthening Family & Community Partnerships Through CLASS
      • The Power of Story: Showcasing Implementation Successes & Impact

Presentation length

• Short (30 Minutes)
  Our 30-minute sessions are quick, focused presentations designed to deliver compact yet impactful overviews. Presenters distill their content to its essence, allowing attendees to quickly grasp key insights. They are ideal for sharing highlights, introducing new concepts, or sparking engaging discussions on specific topics or ideas.
• Standard (45-60 Minutes)
  These sessions offer a typical length that allows for both presentation and Q&A. You can choose between a "Listen and Learn" or "Participate and Share" format. Dive deep into your topic, share your expertise, and engage the audience with interactive discussions and practical examples.
• Extended (90 Minutes)
  These sessions provide an immersive, in-depth exploration of complex topics. With interactive elements and a focus on meaningful discussions, they encourage knowledge sharing and tangible outcomes. Given the limited slots, sessions must deliver robust learning outcomes. Workshop format only.

Session FormatS

• Listen and Learn 
  Traditional presentations or panel discussions with limited audience interaction focused on delivering information
• Participate and Share
  A mix of content and collaboration. Sessions are designed to actively involve the audience through discussions, polls, or group activities.
• Workshop 
  Interactive, hands-on sessions designed for skill-building and in-depth learning on a specific topic.

FAQs

• When are proposals due? All proposals must be submitted by the end of the day on November 3, 2025.
• When will I find out if my proposal has been accepted? We will inform you if your submission is accepted on November 21, 2025.
• Who attends InterAct? Leaders from early childhood and K-12 educational systems attend the Summit, including decision-makers at every level: state and district administrators, program leaders, instructional coaches, and assessors. Most attendees are focused on early childhood (birth to eight years). 
• Does my session need to focus on CLASS only? No. We've had several popular sessions that are more loosely tied to CLASS, including using mindfulness practices, incorporating sign language, or focusing solely on improving interactions without using CLASS terminology. We do find that participants want to be able to make connections to their work. Their standard tie is usually the CLASS tool, so being able to either implicitly or explicitly tie it back to CLASS is appreciated. See last year's schedule for examples.
• What's the average session size? Sessions can range in size from 50-200 people.
• What sessions have been popular at past conferences? From the feedback we received after previous InterAct CLASS Summits, we know people like to hear a story. They want to hear about the bumps in the road and how you overcame them—the successes and failures. Attendees have let us know that they are particularly interested in attending more sessions around coaching, DEI, countering bias, and supporting dual language learners.
• How are proposals selected? A small group of reviewers will blindly review all proposals against a rubric. This means that reviewers will not see who submitted proposals until final selections have been made. They will look for interactive, relevant to the audience, and purposeful sessions.
• Do I need to submit my slides with my proposal? No, we work with presenters and collect slides in the weeks before the Summit. However, if you have slides because you've presented this topic before, feel free to include them. 
• Will sessions be shared during/after the Summit? Slides and any additional resources will be added to the event platform, either by you or by us, so attendees can access them.
• Do presenters get a registration discount? Yes! If your session is chosen, you'll receive a discount on your registration for the Summit.