2026 MSCI

Every student, family, and community has the right to a joyous and just education. The "joyous" aspect brings a sense of belonging, while the "just" ensures that we all actively participate in co-constructing collective wellness for all. A joyous and just school is intentional, holistic, and inclusive, building welcoming environments for all members of learning communities. Ms. Urtubey shares heartfelt, humorous, real, and transformative examples from her practice of how schools can continue to shift and heal educational spaces to ensure everyone can shine through community connection and growth.

Every student, family, and community has the right to a joyous and just education. The "joyous" aspect brings a sense of belonging, while the "just" ensures that we all actively participate in co-constructing collective wellness for all. A joyous and just school is intentional, holistic, and inclusive, building welcoming environments for all members of learning communities. Ms. Urtubey shares heartfelt, humorous, real, and transformative examples from her practice of how schools can continue to shift and heal educational spaces to ensure everyone can shine through community connection and growth.

As the daughter of Indian immigrants, Virginia Teacher of the Year Avanti Yamamoto spent much of her life searching for where she belonged. In this keynote, she shares how those experiences shaped her commitment to creating spaces where every student feels seen, valued, and capable. Through stories of teaching, advocacy, and leadership, participants will be inspired to reflect on how their own experiences, beliefs, and passions can become powerful tools for building belonging and using their voices to make a difference in the lives of students and the future of the profession.

Living in Your Why is a reflective and inspiring session that explores the personal journey, experiences, and relationships that shape an educator’s purpose. Through stories from my life, this program highlights the people, places, and defining moments that inspired me to pursue a career in education—from the wisdom gained on my grandparents’ front porch in rural Virginia to the students who continue to teach, challenge, and inspire me every day.

Drawing on Dr. Sarah Beach’s journey from classroom teacher to education researcher, this keynote session challenges the assumption that there is one “right” way to educate students. Together, participants will examine how teachers’ lived experiences shape their understanding of what works and why multiple “right" ways can coexist. Through reflection and dialogue, attendees will consider how to leverage collaboration to navigate complexity, embrace difference, and advocate for systems of education that better support all learners.

The Copenhaver Institute's closing luncheon celebrates our learning and interactions this week. Come enjoy a delicious served lunch, help us honor this year's award recipient, listen for your chance to win one of our closing door prizes, and be inspired by our speakers, Jasmine and Anthony Swann. Their keynote, A Lasting Effect, explores the power of teacher voice and its impact on students, schools and the profession. Participants will discover practical ways to advocate for students, share their expertise, and contribute to meaningful change. Educators will come away inspired to recognize and use their influence to create a lasting effect both inside and outside the classroom.