2026 WIDA Annual Conference

This conference, by teachers, for teachers, is the premier event for educators of pre-K through grade 12 multilingual learners, giving educators the opportunity to share best practices and discover innovative classroom strategies.

The in-person conference took place September 16-18, 2026, in St. Louis, Missouri under the theme "Building Gateways to Colaboración." A curated virtual track will took place on September 15, 2026. Read Looking back at the 2026 WIDA Annual Conference to get highlights from the week.

Join the WIDA Annual Conference email list to stay up-to-date on call for proposals, registration details and more.

Keynote Speakers

In-Person Opening Keynote: Cristina Henríquez

Critically acclaimed author

In-Person Closing Keynote: Diep Nguyen

President/CEO of Center for Applied Linguistics

Virtual Keynote: Andrea Honigsfeld

Professor and author

Save the date for #WIDA2027

The 2027 WIDA Annual Conference is heading to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania! The conference will take place October 19-22, 2027. A curated virtual track will also be available.

Learn more about the 2027 WIDA Annual Conference.

What do people say about the WIDA Annual Conference?

“The WIDA Annual Conference is always exceptional! I return to my district with so much new knowledge to share and practical ideas/strategies/resources for immediate implementation. This conference offers sessions that truly meet the needs of educators with all levels of experience, from beginning teachers to veterans.”

– District ELL/ESL Coordinator

“I truly enjoyed attending the conference. The atmosphere, the learning, the camaraderie, everything was amazing! I was able to make connections with others in the field, acquire strategies and resources to support my students, and have fun at the same time! I look forward to attending again next year.”

– ELL/ESL Teacher

... until #WIDA2026!

Follow #WIDA2026 for full conference coverage!