Call for Presentations

IASB BoardCon
Nov. 18–20, 2026
Iowa Events Center, Des Moines

Submit Presentation Proposal(s)

BoardCon is set for Nov. 18–20, 2026. We are currently seeking proposals for education sessions that will be held on Thursday, Nov. 19 We invite you to submit a proposal designed to equip boards with knowledge, tips, and tools to inspire innovation and enhance board decisions for student achievement.

To assist in your proposal preparation, check out our handy presentation planning document!

Note: IASB does not cover travel expenses; presenter fees will not be waived.

Key Dates

June 5: Deadline to submit presentation proposal.
Mid-summer: Acceptance or denial email sent.
Late summer: IASB staff reaches out to presenters to collaborate and assist with presentation needs.
Sept. 23: SCHED Launches
Nov. 9: Handouts and PPTs due for online posting.
Nov. 18-20: BoardCon.

Presentation Selection Criteria

We are seeking and will select presentations that meet all of the following criteria:

Developing an increased understanding of the information boards use to govern.
Demonstrating effective governance practices and team dynamics while clearly articulating the role of the board.
Showcasing promising or innovative programs, initiatives, and ideas that can be replicated by other districts or AEA's across the state.
Inspiring the board's development of a district vision that guides board policy, plans, and district supports.
Providing practical tips and tools that can be implemented back at the board table.

Additionally, all presentations must meet the following Requirements:

Include a school or AEA board member as a presenter
Effectively engage the audience
Be delivered in 45 minutes
Presenters may not sell merchandise in their presentation

IASB reserves the right to revise session titles and descriptions.

Vendor Presentations Criteria
Presentations that include representatives from companies or organizations associated with a commercial enterprise must align to the following selection criteria, in addition to criteria listed above:

Presentation proposals must include school leaders on the panel.
School leaders must be the primary presenters.
Session must agree to have their company or organization participate as a paid Trade Show exhibitor upon selection of their proposal.

Vendors should ensure that presentation proposals are submitted in collaboration with district leaders. Please do not submit proposals without informing the listed district.

Presentation proposals that do not meet these criteria will NOT be considered.

Types of Learning Opportunities

Consider which of the following presentation styles you will be incorporating into your session.

Traditional Presentation
Focuses on a single topic or program, typically including a talk or media presentation followed by Q&A.

Panel Discussion
Discussion focuses on a specific topic among a selected group of panelists who share differing perspectives.

Deeper Dialogue: Interactive presentation that provides an extended opportunity for participant engagement. Presenters briefly introduce the idea or issue they wish to explore and open the discussion for input and exchange of ideas among participants via scenario discussion, group polls, guiding questions, or other exercises.