AABC 21st Annual Conference
Rooted in Service: Growing the Skills
That Support Strong School Leadership
May 4-5, 2026
Mississippi School Boards Association
Administrative Office and Training Complex
380 Zurich Dr. • Ridgeland, MS 39157
Administrative assistants and board clerks are the steady presence behind every organized board meeting, agenda, calendar, and record. The AABC 21st Annual Conference, taking place May 4-5 at the Mississippi School Boards Association (MSBA) in Ridgeland, MS, equips these essential professionals with practical tools, skills, and confidence to strengthen governance, support superintendents, and keep districts running smoothly.
Why Attend?
- Hands-on strategies for agendas, minutes, calendars, and records
- Confidence in policy, legal matters, and compliance
- Practical tips for communication, de-escalation, and supporting new superintendents
- Insight into AI tools, cybersecurity, and emerging district office trends
- Connection with peers statewide
Keynote Speaker
The Heart Behind the Work: The Quiet Strength That Helps Leadership Grow
Dr. Toriano Holloway, Superintendent of the Vicksburg Warren School District, highlights the vital role administrative assistants and board clerks play in keeping districts organized and effective. Participants will explore practical strategies for supporting board governance, managing transitions, and maintaining continuity, showing how behind-the-scenes work strengthens leadership and improves district outcomes.
Highlighted Sessions
- Planting the Plan: Agendas, Minutes & Board Calendars
- Rooted in Policy & Legal Matters: Strengthening governance and compliance
- New Growth: AI Tools: Practical AI support with accuracy and judgment
- Helping New Leadership Take Root: Supporting superintendent transitions
- Protecting What We Grow: Cybersecurity & social engineering
- Caring for the Whole Garden: Mental health support
- Growing Stronger Through Communication: De-escalating difficult situations
Takeaways
Attendees leave equipped, confident, and inspired; ready to strengthen daily operations, support leadership transitions, and contribute to stronger, well-run school districts.
Fees
- Monday, May 4: $150 per person
- Tuesday, May 5: $150 per person
- Full Conference, May 4-5: $300 per person
Location
Mississippi School Boards Association
Administrative Office and Training Complex
380 Zurich Dr.
Ridgeland, MS 39157
Hotel Information
- Hyatt Place Jackson / Ridgeland, 1016 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS, offers a rate of $149.00 for a two queen bed room and $129.00 for a king bed room when calling the front desk at 601-898-8815. Corporate Code: 1002152
- Embassy Suites, 200 Township Place, Ridgeland, MS, offers a rate of $169.00 for a standard suite and $189.00 for a Premium or PURE Suite (breakfast, evening drinks in the lobby included) when calling their front desk at 601-607-7112. Corporate Code: 3495096
For information about AABC Appreciation Week, click here.