School Culture by Design

From August 3–6, teachers and principals from across the Southwestern Union gathered for the 2026 Southwestern Union Educators Convention—a time of learning, collaboration, encouragement, and professional growth. With the theme “School Culture by Design,” the convention challenged educators to be intentional about creating school environments where students and teachers can thrive.

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Attendees participated in rich breakout sessions led by respected educational voices, including Dr. Robyn Jackson, John Almarode, and Mario Acosta. Their presentations offered practical strategies, fresh perspectives, and inspiration for educators looking to strengthen their classrooms and schools.

Throughout the convention, educators had opportunities to share successful teaching practices, discuss challenges, and discover new approaches to familiar situations. The emphasis was not simply on adding new ideas, but on thoughtfully designing a school culture that supports learning, relationships, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

The convention reflected a shared belief that educators are stronger when they learn from one another. By exchanging teaching successes and improvement strategies, teachers and administrators can build a community willing to try new things, improve old practices, and rediscover the joy of teaching.

We were also blessed to have our conference administrators join us throughout the convention. Pastor Edward Bryan, our conference Evangelism Coordinator, challenged teachers and school leaders to think beyond the walls of the classroom and extend our school culture to include reaching out to the families of our students. His message reminded us that Christian education provides a unique opportunity to build meaningful relationships with families and share the love of Christ beyond the school day.

We concluded our time together with a special consecration service. The presidents of each conference prayed over every teacher, asking for God’s blessing, guidance, and strength as they begin the new school year. It was a meaningful reminder that, while we work to intentionally shape the culture of our schools, we ultimately depend on God to guide our efforts and bless the work we do.

As educators return to their schools for a new year, the lessons, connections, and encouragement from the convention provide a renewed sense of purpose. School Culture by Design is more than a theme—it is an invitation to intentionally create schools where students, educators, and families can learn, grow, and flourish together.

By Tara Bailey