CLMS Annual Conference
March 6-7, 2026, Long Beach, CA
Advancing Excellence in the Middle Grades
Join Us at the Premier Gathering for Middle-Grades Education!
The California League of Middle Schools (CLMS) Annual Conference is where passionate educators, forward-thinking administrators, and dedicated advocates come together to reimagine what's possible for middle school students.
This year’s event will energize and empower you with fresh ideas, meaningful connections, and proven strategies to elevate your practice and impact. We'll also be honoring the 2026 California Schools to Watch. Consider applying today!
Early bird registration is now open—don’t miss your chance to be part of this dynamic community driving change in California’s middle schools. Register today!
Conference Schedule
Pre-conference - Thursday, March 5
1:00 - 4:00 pm
Sponsor Showcase
2:00 - 4:00 pm
District Leadership Celebration
4:00 - 6:00 pm
District Leadership Reception
4:00 - 7:00 pm
Conference Registration
Friday, March 6
8:00 am - 4:00 pm
Sponsor Showcase
8:30 - 10:00 am
General Session/Keynote Speaker
10:00 am - 12:15 pm
STW Celebration
12:15 - 1:30 pm
Lunch on your own
1:30 - 4:15 pm
Educator-led Breakout Sessions
4:30 - 6:30 pm
EOY Celebration & Reception
Saturday, March 7
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sponsor Showcase
8:30 - 9:45 am
General Session/Keynote Speaker
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Educator-led Breakout Sessions
Schedule is subject to change
Location, Travel, & Hotel
Registration Rates
CLMS/STW Members
Through January 31, 2026:
$499 per person
After January 31, 2026:
$559 per person
All members of California League of Middle Schools and current Schools to Watch members receive $60 off of conference registration per person.
Not a member? Join CLMS Today!
Non-Members
Through January 31, 2026:
$559 per person
After January 31, 2026:
$619 per person
All members of California League of Middle Schools and current Schools to Watch members receive $60 off of conference registration per person.
Not a member? Join CLMS Today!
District Leadership Celebration
The District Leadership Celebration honors leadership teams whose schools have earned California Schools to Watch recognition for excellence in middle-grades education. Held on March 5, 2026, in Long Beach, CA, this event brings together superintendents and district leaders from across the state to celebrate their achievements. After the formal recognition, honorees are invited to a reception with opportunities to connect with peers and colleagues.
2:00 - 4:00 pm | Awards Ceremony
4:00 - 6:00 pm | Reception
You can register for the celebration as part of your conference registration. District leaders who plan to attend only the celebration can register separately.
CALL FOR PRESENTERS
California League of Middle Schools is seeking principals and classroom practitioners to showcase innovative and impactful practices making a difference in California's middle-level* classrooms and schools.
The selection process is competitive, so early proposal submission is encouraged. Selected primary presenters will receive $100 off conference registration. Proposals are due January 17, 2026.
*This is a middle-level specific event. However, we accept presentations from all levels and our corporate partners. All presentations must be applicable to the middle grades.