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Center for School Improvement Leadership Institute

Registration is now open for the CSI Leadership Institute 2026.

Register Now

Join us at the AFT’s Center for School Improvement (CSI) Leadership Institute 2026—in collaboration with the new AFT National Academy for AI Instruction and the United Federation of Teachers Teacher Center—Jan. 22-24, in New York City.

This year’s theme, "Harnessing AI to Empower Educators and Enrich Learning," focuses on ensuring AI enhances classroom work so educators can focus on what matters most: teaching, connecting with students and fostering a love of learning. This effort is deeply connected to the National Academy for AI Instruction, AFT’s new hub for AI education. Together, CSI and the academy are working to prepare educators to navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI, while making sure their voices and experiences shape how these technologies are developed and used in schools.

The 2026 institute will help you and your team create a plan of action for implementing AI in your schools—ethically, inclusively and collaboratively—so that technology serves educators, not the other way around.

Why Attend CSI 2026?

At the institute, you will:

  • Learn more about the National Academy for AI Instruction and its offerings
  • Explore best practices for integrating AI into teaching and learning while safeguarding educator roles.
  • Learn how AI can support personalized instruction, timely feedback and student well-being.
  • Address ethical concerns—including bias, privacy and transparency—so AI adoption strengthens equity.
  • Collaborate with other leaders to develop actionable AI implementation plans tailored to your school or district.
  • Build connections with a network of educators committed to using AI to expand opportunity, not replace human connection.

Who Should Attend?

This event is for education leaders, union representatives, district and school administrators, educators and community partners committed to shaping the future of AI in education. We encourage you to bring a team of three to six members—including local union leaders, school and district administrators, and key community partners—so you can work together to develop your AI vision and strategy.

Who Can be a Part of Your Team?

  • Local leaders
  • District leaders
  • District administrators
  • School administrators
  • Community organization partners and/or parents
  • Teachers
  • Other Educators

Conference Registration Fees: $200 per person

Travel and Hotel Reservations: Participants are responsible for their own travel and hotel costs. We have secured great hotel rates for the CSI Leadership Institute participants!

The AFT has reserved a block of rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton New York - Lower Manhattan at 8 Stone Street, New York, NY 10004, a short walk from UFT Headquarters.

Room rates: $139 per night, plus 14.75% tax and $3.50/night occupancy tax. Total cost per night: $163

CSI 2026 Partners