ICEARY 2026 is March 5th-6th.

Where Hope Meets Action

For years, the ICEARY Conference has been where Illinois’ educators, administrators, counselors, and youth advocates come together to share ideas, celebrate successes, and strengthen how we support at-risk youth.

 

Hosted by the Illinois Coalition for Educating At-Risk Youth (ICEARY), the annual conference brings together professionals who are passionate about helping every student reach their potential—no matter the barriers they face.

 

This event is designed to:

• Elevate innovation and best practices in alternative education and student re-engagement

• Build community among professionals who are walking alongside youth every day

• Inspire change through powerful storytelling, research, and hands-on learning

• Strengthen advocacy efforts that shape policy and open new opportunities for students

 

The ICEARY Conference has become more than a professional learning event—it’s a movement that connects people and programs making a real difference in students’ lives across Illinois.

 

Each year’s conference adds new voices, new ideas, and new partnerships to the growing network of educators committed to hope and opportunity for all.