Welcome to The Quad: A New Experience at Thrive 2025

Step into The Quad (formerly the Expo)—a dynamic and reimagined space designed to foster connection, learning, and innovation at Thrive 2025. Much like a campus quad, this gathering place will serve as the heart of the conference, where attendees can gather, recharge, and immerse themselves in unique programming that drives educational excellence.


Highlights of The Quad Experience

  • The NAIS Career Center: Find personalized career support with complimentary coaching sessions in the Coaches' Corner. Get hands-on practice in the Thrive Skills Studio, where you’ll learn how to navigate complex leadership scenarios, refine your resume, and tell your professional story more effectively. 
  • Leadership & Governance Hub: Engage with experts to explore the latest in school leadership, governance strategies, and best practices that can be implemented in your school community. 
  • Innovation & Technology Pavilion: Visit the Teaching With Tech space for interactive sessions where you’ll engage with the latest education technologies and hear from peers who are using these tools to drive innovation in their classrooms. 
  • Teaching & Learning Showcase: Join sessions designed to inspire new teaching methods and explore education best practices. From interactive workshops to innovative hands-on demonstrations, there’s something for every educator looking to enhance their skills.


Plan Your Visit to The Quad

  • Thursday, February 27: 10:30 AM-4:30 PM CT 

  • Friday, February 28: 10:30 AM-3:00 PM CT


Programming in The Quad 

Some offerings will require pre-registration due to limited capacity.  

Thrive Learning Lab 

Learn from educators as they pitch prototyped innovations around disruptive technology and student wellness, while getting real-time feedback from industry mentors. 

Skills Studio 

This new workspace is designed to develop skills through doing. Whether practicing critical leadership skills like holding difficult conversations, building your resume, or developing your storytelling muscles, the Skills Studio will help you get hands-on experience. 

Teach With Tech 

Visit this space to interact with equipment, experts, and peers who are leveraging these technologies to support student and adult learning in their schools. 

Career Center 

Boost your professional journey in our newly designed Career Center. Whether you're refining your skills in our Thrive Skills Studio or seeking personalized advice at the Coaches’ Corner, you’ll find the tools you need to advance your career. 

Coaches’ Corner 

Sign up for free 45-minute sessions with educator-focused coaches and others who are trained to listen, ask powerful questions, and create a space for reflection. Whether you have a school-based dilemma or are facing a personal or professional crossroads, take advantage of the opportunity to use a fully trained and certified coach as a sounding board. Learn more. 


Activities in The Quad 

In addition to programming, The Quad offers a variety of informal activities designed to help you relax, recharge, and network. 

  • Book Signings in the NAIS Central Bookstore 
  • AI Mini-Sessions 
  • Complimentary Headshots: Start the next step of your leadership journey by stopping by and getting a professional headshot taken. 


Meals and Networking  

  • Opening Ceremony (Thursday: 10:30-11:15 AM): Celebrate the opening of The Quad with a 45-minute open house. Enjoy coffee, snacks, and entertainment while exploring this dynamic, reimagined space.
  • Complimentary Lunch
    • Thursday: 12:30-1:30 PM
    • Friday: 12:00-1:30 PM  
  • Affinity and Affiliation Group Lunches (Optional): Grab your lunch and head to a labeled table to grow your community! Please choose a table based on either your current personal or professional identifiers. 
  • Morning and Afternoon Breaks: Grab a coffee or snack, chat with exhibitors, and connect with fellow attendees.
    • Thursday: 10:30-11:15 AM, 2:45-3:15 PM 
    • Friday: 10:30-11:15 AM 


Relax and Recharge

  • Wellness Zone:
    • Complimentary Massages: Take a break from the hustle and bustle to get a brief chair massage. Let your cares melt away!
    • Healthy Snack Demo: Visit the Wellness Zone during the afternoon refreshment break to sample some nutritious snacks with us! During this demo you’ll learn how to create delicious treats that will satisfy your cravings while keeping you energized. 
  • Lounge Space: Pop into one of our lounges to connect with colleagues, meet new friends, enjoy some of the fun games, or to simply recharge before your next session!


With a blend of structured programming, engaging activities, and relaxation spaces, The Quad offers everything you need to make the most of your Thrive 2025 experience. Be sure to visit often to connect, learn, and recharge!