July 12-14, 2026
Olympic Conference Center
Lake Placid, NY
Registration is OPEN!
This year’s theme, “Our Roots, Our Rise: Honoring Our Legacy. Growing Stronger Together,” celebrates the deep foundations of our rural schools while looking ahead to the exciting possibilities that lie before us.
Sunday, July 12
Conference Kickoff — We start our conference with inspiration, connection, and a shared vision for rural education.
Afternoon Reception — Reconnect with colleagues and spark new conversations in a relaxed setting.
Awards Dinner — Celebrate the outstanding leaders and schools shaping the future of our communities.
Awards Reception — Step into history at Roamers in the Olympic Conference Center, where the spirit of past Olympic triumphs sets the stage for an unforgettable evening of connection, celebration, and inspiration.
Monday, July 13
Monday Keynote, Manley Feinberg
Prepare for a high-energy experience that will challenge and inspire you to think bigger about leadership, resilience, and what’s possible for your schools and communities. Drawing on extraordinary stories from the world of mountain climbing, business leadership, and real-life adventure, this keynote will ignite renewed purpose, strengthen commitment, and empower rural educators to push beyond obstacles and reach their next summit together.
Breakout Sessions — Practical ideas, innovative strategies, and real-world solutions you can bring back to your district.
Celebration of Rural Education Lunch: FFA Speakers and Rural Teacher of the Year Award — Honor the spirit of rural education while hearing from inspiring student leaders and celebrating an exceptional educator.
Curling and Olympic Museum Reception — Enjoy a uniquely Lake Placid evening of curling fun and exploration at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, complete with networking and memorable experiences.
Tuesday, July 14
Keynote to be announced
Breakout Sessions Continued — Final opportunities to exchange ideas, deepen connections, and leave equipped with practical strategies to carry the momentum home.
Sunday | Awards Reception
Join us as we proudly honor this year’s award recipients. Celebrate the remarkable educators, leaders, and schools making a lasting impact on rural communities while enjoying refreshments, meaningful connections, and the inspiring atmosphere of an Olympic venue. Share in the moment, congratulate our honorees, and help us kick off the conference with an evening dedicated to recognition, pride, and celebration — with additional details to be announced soon.
Monday | Curling and Olympic Museum Reception
Curling
Step onto the ice to learn the basics of curling, test your skills, and enjoy a lively evening of networking with colleagues. Teams and coordinated curling attire are welcome! More information coming soon.
OPT-IN REQUIRED FOR CURLING
You must opt-in to this event in advance during the registration process. Additional fees do not apply, however, it is important that you register in advance as this event is sure to fill up quickly.
Olympic Museum
A must-see attraction in Lake Placid, the Lake Placid Olympic Museum showcases interactive exhibits and one of North America’s largest collections of Winter Olympic artifacts, celebrating the village’s legacy as a two-time Olympic host.
Registration is OPEN!
https://registration.socio.events/e/rsasummerconference2026
Secure your registration and accommodations early, as space for this event is limited and expected to fill quickly.
QUESTIONS?
Registration will be coordinated through FEH BOCES. If you need assistance, please contact: rsaconference@fehb.org
If you have questions regarding lodging and hotel reservations, please contact conventionres@lakeplacid.com
For general inquiries, please contact RSA Director of Communications and Planning, Andrea Durmiaki, at adurmiaki@rsany.org
We have a limited number of rooms available at several centrally-located hotels in downtown Lake Placid. Reservations are limited on Saturday and Tuesday. The majority of our room blocks are reserved for Sunday-Tuesday. In order to receive the room rates for RSA room blocks, you must reserve a room using the link provided in your conference registration confirmation email.
Lodging options include:
Best Western ADK Inn
Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort
Grand Adirondack Hotel
Hampton Inn & Suites Lake Placid
High Peaks Resort
Rooms are available first-come-first served.
Additional information
NYS Sales Tax at 8% and
County Occupancy Tax at 5% or the prevailing rates are additional, unless exempt. All hotels offer
complimentary parking and free Wi-Fi unless otherwise noted.
Notes/Concessions
Best Western Adirondack Inn:
● Rooms are split across 2 floors
● No elevator available on the property
Grand Adirondack Hotel:
● Parking onsite is Valet only, available 24/7 at $24 per day, per vehicle
All reservations must be made by 5:00pm on Friday, June 26, 2026
With attendees traveling from all corners of New York State and beyond, we suggest planning your travel ahead by referencing the Lake Placid Travelers Guide here.
Vendors and Sponsorship
Vendor and Sponsorship is limited! Please contact Scott Bischoping at sbischoping@rsany.org.
In partnership
A special thanks to our 2026 Conference Planning Committee:
Helen Arco
Linda Competillo
Jesse Harper
Peggy Parsons
Lily Talcott
Cindy Walter
Sponsored By
