Conferences and Events

SAM Conferences and Events:

• 2024-25 SAM Conference Schedule

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  2025 Montana Principals Conference

Redefining Education:  In My Principal Era

Principals are shaping the future of education like never before! Whether you're sparking innovation, fostering inclusivity, or championing resilience, every principal has the power to lead with purpose.  Join us for keynote presentations, breakout sessions, interactive events, and fun activities that will inspire you to lead your school into its next era.

Keynote Presenters:

• Allyson Apsey - a dedicated school leader for nearly two decades, is known for helping educators and students thrive by building on strengths and fostering positive relationships. A Certified Trauma Practitioner in Education, Allyson is dedicated to supporting trauma-affected students and creating wellness-centered environments. Now with Creative Leadership Solutions, she works with schools nationwide, inspiring audiences as an author, speaker, and coach with her #SerendipityEDU message.
• Darrin Peppard - an experienced educator and former Wyoming Secondary School Principal of the Year, is an expert in school culture, leadership development, and coaching emerging leaders. Known for his culture-first approach and dynamic personality, Darrin shares insights from over 25 years in education to help leaders thrive. Recently inducted into the Jostens Renaissance Hall of Fame, he inspires audiences to lead with purpose and impact.
• Tracy Vik has been principal of Sonia Sotomayor Elementary School for the past six years. Vik and her staff worked tirelessly to ensure that lessons are consistent with district standards and collaborated with national consultants to make sure that the Spanish language instruction is of the highest caliber.  Vik works exceptionally hard to make the school a place where each and every visitor feels welcomed and valued. At the crux of Vik’s educational values is a belief in community wellness, and she strives to bring awareness to global issues. 
• Laurie Barron is superintendent of the Evergreen School District in Kalispell, Montana, and was named 2021 Montana Superintendent of the Year. A National Board–certified teacher, she was 2012 Georgia Principal of the Year and 2013 MetLife/NASSP National Middle Level Principal of the Year. Barron is a coauthor of the books What Parents Need to Know About Common Core and Other College-and Career-Ready Standards and Middle School: A Place to Belong and Become and has authored numerous articles. She is also a speaker who provides motivation and professional learning to teachers and administrators throughout the United States. 

Breakout Session Themes:

Explore sessions designed to help you redefine education in your principal era:

1. Innovation - Embrace change and creative solutions (AKA T.S. 1989 Album)
2. Inspiration - Passion and resilience in the face of adversity (AKA T.S. Red Album)
3. Inclusion - Building school climate with all kids in mind (AKA T.S. Speak Now Album)

Monday Night Event:

• VIP Backstage Pass

For the Principal Eras Monday evening event, it’s all about the Backstage Pass! Channel your inner rock star or superfan by representing your favorite band or sports team. Be creative with band tees, team jerseys, or a fun combination of music and sports fan gear! Picture yourself walking into the event with your backstage pass, ready to celebrate in VIP style.

• Fearless Cornhole Tournament

Unleash your competitive spirit at the Fearless Cornhole Tournament, an informal, lively evening event inspired by Taylor Swift's Fearless album. Form teams with creative names based on the 19 songs from Fearless (Taylor's Version) and enjoy a night of fun and networking.

Follow this link to register as an attendee!

Follow this link to register as a conference exhibitor/sponsor!

Delta Hotel Reservations Information 

The room rate for the conference is $169 per night. Please contact the hotel directly to book your room by calling 406-443-2100 or by booking online using the reservation link below. Book your group rate for the Montana Principals Conference

Additional Room Blocks

DoubleTree by Hilton Helena Downtown - $155 Per night Book your group rate for the Montana Principals Conference

Residence Inn Helena - $159.00 per night Book your group rate for the Montana Principals Conference