MASA’s Fall Conference is an annual event dedicated to inspiring district leaders, exploring innovative approaches in education, and breaking through conventional boundaries. During general sessions with keynote speakers and numerous learning sessions over the course of three days, MASA members will learn from and engage with other thought leaders and trailblazers, and walk away with ready-to-implement ideas and resources to help tackle challenges, embrace change, and unlock limitless potential in their education communities.
When: September 23-25
Where: Grand Traverse Resort
Register to Attend
Questions? Call the office at (517) 327-5910.
Pre-Conference Opportunity – Wednesday, September 23
The Raise the Bar Breakfast
Dr. Miguel Cardona | Former U.S. Secretary of Education
Join us for an exclusive pre-conference conversation with Former U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona – a session for K-12 leaders providing an opportunity to reflect on the people who opened doors for them and the responsibility they now have to open doors for students, staff, and communities. Together, considering how intentional and equity-centered leadership can create conditions for learning, belonging, achievement, and future success.
When: Wednesday, September 23 | 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Cost: $100
Select the add-on option during Fall Conference registration to automatically include the pre-conference session to your registration.
Hotel Information
Venue Hotel
Grand Traverse Resort (Event Location)
100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd, Acme, MI 49690
Rate: $219/night
Book at GTR
To make reservations at the Grand Traverse Resort, use the button above or call (231) 534-6001 and request the MASA Conference Block.
Note: Conference registration is required to reserve a room within the MASA hotel block, and registration lists will be monitored to ensure access is reserved for conference attendees only.
Overflow Hotel
Sleep Inn & Suites
5520 US 31 North, Acme, MI 49610
Rate: $109/night
Booking Cut-off Date: August 25
Book at Sleep Inn & Suites
To make reservations at the Sleep Inn & Suites, use the button above or call at (231) 938-7000 and ask for the MASA Conference Block.
Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel
7741 M72 East, Williamsburg, MI, 49690
Rate: $199/night
Book at Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel
To make reservations at the Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel, use the button above or visit the website and enter the code GR92226.
MASA cannot guarantee the availability of accommodations in the room block(s) as they are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Trane Pickleball Frenzy is Back!
Kick off your Fall Conference with excitement and energy at the pickleball tournament sponsored by Trane!
Whether you’re a novice or pro, join Trane and MASA for an exhilarating Pickleball Tournament and learn from an on-site expert.
When: September 23, 2026 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Where: Outdoor Tennis/Pickleball Court (Indoor courts if inclement weather)
Cost: Free
Register for Pickleball
SET SEG Fun Run/Walk
Join SET SEG and MASA for a 5K Run/Walk around the Grand Traverse Resort grounds. Participants who register early will receive a commemorative t-shirt and prizes will be awarded for the fastest times!
When: Thursday, September 24 at 7 a.m.
Where: Health Club Lobby | Grand Traverse Resort
Cost: Free
*Register by September 3 to be guaranteed a T-shirt.
Register for 5K Run/Walk
Meet Our Keynote Speaker
Jon Gordon | Best-Selling Author & Keynote Speaker
Jon Gordon is a best-selling author and sought-after speaker known for his work on leadership, teamwork, and positive culture. He has written 33 books, including The Energy Bus, The Power of Positive Leadership, and The 7 Commitments of a Great Team. Jon has worked with Fortune 500 companies, professional sports teams, schools, and organizations across the country to help build stronger leaders and teams.
Now Accepting RFPs
MASA is seeking dynamic presenters to inspire excellence in our public school leaders at our annual Fall Conference. Please consider sharing your expertise and resources with participants. Learn more about presentation requirements and areas of focus below.
To be considered, the proposed presentation must be directly relevant to current district and/or leadership needs, addressing pressing challenges and/or emerging priorities.
The proposed presentation must also clearly align with at least one of the following areas of focus:
- Leadership Development
- School Safety and Mental Health & Wellness
- Small and/or Rural Districts
- Urban Districts
- Central Office
- Women in Leadership
- Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
- Teaching & Learning
- Communications & Public Relations
New this year: Presenters may select up to three presentation tags to provide additional insight into their session. These tags will help participants better understand the learning experience, session format, and key takeaways attendees can expect.
Note: All Strategic Partner presentations must include at least one MASA member co-presenter to provide a district perspective and emphasize practical implementation. Not yet an MASA Partner? Learn more about becoming a Strategic Partner.
The deadline for RFP submissions is June 26 at 5:00 p.m. EDT.
Submit an RFP
Partnership Opportunities at Fall Conference
Looking to partner with us at Fall Conference?
Explore the many ways to connect with Michigan’s education leaders by visiting
our Partners Page to learn more and discover the best fit for your organization.
Questions? Contact Danielle Bach at danielle@gomasa.org.