IDEA Conference
Arizona's IDEA Conference
The Arizona Department of Education/Exceptional Student Services (ADE/ESS) is thrilled to announce the 2026 IDEA Conference will take place at the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort from August 18–20, 2026 with Preconference sessions on August 17. This year's theme, Stronger Systems, Better Outcomes—for Every Student, reflects the critical role of robust coordinated systems in driving meaningful outcomes for students with disabilities.
Conference Overview
This statewide professional development event brings participants together to collaborate, learn, and strengthen outcomes for students.
The Arizona IDEA Conference is a premier cross‑stakeholder event designed for:
- Special education administrative staff
- Youths and young adults with disabilities
- Family members and caregivers
- State agency staff
- Educators and instructional leaders
- Service providers
- Community members committed to student success
Program Highlights
The 2026 conference will feature professional learning opportunities, including sessions focused on:
- IDEA legal issues and updates
- Instructional practices
- National trends and hot topics
- Special education compliance
- Preschool special education
- Secondary transition
- Content tailored for related service providers
Conference Features
Call for Papers -- Closed March 4
Secondary Transition Service Awards -- Deadline extened to May 22
Student Artwork -- Deadline extended to May 22
Stay Updated
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Revised date 4.23.26 LM
