What’s New and Updates
You Asked. We Listened.
Over the past several years, we’ve carefully reviewed member feedback, post- convention surveys, and conversations with attendees. Several themes emerged consistently:
- Make the national convention more affordable;
- Create a schedule that better supports educators’ needs; and
- Reduce time away from students while preserving valuable professional learning opportunities.
Starting with #SHAPECharlotte, we’re introducing updates designed to better meet your needs while preserving the convention experience you’ve come to expect.
The same national convention you know and love — reimagined for the realities of today’s educators.
We can’t wait to see you at #SHAPECharlotte!
WHAT’S NEW FOR 2027?
Lower registration rates and a more streamlined convention schedule provide greater flexibility while making it easier to attend the national convention. Here are some of the changes planned for #SHAPECharlotte (view Schedule-at-a-Glance):
- Wednesday: Leadership & Connections Day
- Optional half-day workshops;
- Partner training clinics;
- Leadership meetings;
- Higher Education Professional Preparation Summit (HEPPS);
- SHAPE America district meetings, awards, and socials.
Arrive early to maximize your learning and connect with colleagues from across the country.
- Thursday–Saturday: Educational Sessions & Expo
- Three full days of educational programming;
- Saturday now features a full day of learning and networking;
- Expo Hall will be open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday;
The result? More concentrated learning with less time away from school during the workweek.
What’s Staying the Same?
You’ll continue to experience everything that makes the SHAPE America National Convention & Expo the leading event for health and physical educators, including:
- High-quality educational sessions featuring leading educators, researchers, and classroom-ready strategies;
- Engaging Coffee Talks that encourage meaningful conversations and idea sharing.
- Hands-on learning experiences;
- Outstanding networking opportunities with colleagues from across the country (and around the world!); and
- Access to industry-leading exhibitors and the latest products and services.
How These Changes Benefit You
The new format is designed to address the challenges convention attendees shared with us. Here’s how you’ll benefit:
- More Affordable: Lower registration rates make attending the national convention more accessible for educators and schools working with tight budgets.
- Less Time Away From School: A streamlined schedule reduces weekday time away from students while still providing meaningful learning opportunities.
- Easier District and University Approval: Fewer missed weekdays may make it easier to obtain administrator approval and secure professional development funding.
- Fewer Sub-Coverage Challenges: By shifting more programming to Saturday, districts may find it easier to support educator attendance despite substitute teacher shortages.
