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Service for World Class Schools

InnovateEDU Tech Conference

Region 14 ESC, Digital Innovation
Hosted by the Region 14 ESC’s Digital Innovation Team with a primary focus on innovative practices and instructional technology resources.

Phone: (325) 675-7045
Email: aparker@esc14.net

Format: In-person only, session registration in conference app
Expected Attendance: 250+ educators, administrators, and technology staff
Date: June 16, 2026
Location: McMurry University – Garrison Center, 1400 Sayles Blvd., Abilene, TX
Duration: 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Session Length: 60-minute sessions, multiple sessions offered each hour

 

Registration Opens April 1

About InnovateEDU

 

InnovateEDU showcases the intersection of technology and pedagogy, emphasizing practical implementation to drive student success. Discover cutting-edge products and methods that enhance engagement and critical thinking. Whether you're interested in digital creation, AI, STEM activities, or just more with Google, learn how these tools are reshaping education. This conference is a hub for collaboration, enabling educators to share ideas and develop solutions for modern educational challenges.

 

Sessions are 60 minutes long and you have an opportunity to attend up to 6 sessions (6 CPE credits) throughout the day. Grab-n-Go breakfast and lunch will be provided. If you have dietary restrictions please let us know in your registration form.

Join us at InnovateEDU to shape the future of learning through innovation. Leave with the inspiration and practical knowledge needed to revolutionize your teaching approach and create impactful, technology-enhanced learning experiences for all students.

A red banner with the text 'CALL FOR PRESENTERS' and session options.

 

Registration Information

2026 Flyer featuring Dr. Tyler Tarver as the keynote

FREE for participating TIVA-SSA Districts
$25.00 for non-participating members

 

June 16, 2026 | 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
NEW LOCATION: McMurry University – Garrison Center
1400 Sayles Blvd., Abilene, TX 

 

In-person only

There is no virtual attendance option.

Explore Conference App & Sessions

Download the 2026 Event Flyer

Registration Link

If you are paying by PO, please follow these steps:

  • Add the workshop to your Pitstop Cart.
  • Email a PDF copy of your PO to pitstopadmin@esc14.net and keep the workshop in your Pitstop Cart. A confirmation email will be sent once the purchase order is processed (generally within 4 business hours).
  • Return to your Pitstop Cart and complete your checkout.

If you require a W-9 for your Business Office, you can download a copy here (updated 12.10.25).

If you require vendor registration/documentation, please review the following documentation: EDGAR Non-Sole Source Request for Other Noncompetitive Procurement – Approved.

Teacher Presenter Information

We can’t do this conference without teachers and teacher presenters. This is the backbone of our conference and each year we are blown away by what teachers across Region 14 are doing to leverage innovation in their classroom. Please consider a tool, product, student success story, project, tips or tricks, or pose a resource that you think would help others. 

Proposals Due March 1 - Submit Now

A presentation slide titled 'Presenter Perks' with a list and an image of a person walking.

Presenter Perks

We know that you are a rockstar in your classroom and the one small thing you are doing could be HUGE for someone else. As a reward, we have a few presenter perks that we hope help to encourage you to be a presenter. It isn't that scary, we promise!

Submit Presentation Proposal
A webpage displays 'Presenter FAQs' with text and a section titled 'Session Options'.

Presenter FAQ's

Here are some of the frequently asked questions that are sure to get you settled as you prepare your session: All sessions are 60 minutes each Each session will be capped at 20 attendees but you should expect between 5-10 participants in your session. Attendees are expected to bring their own device. WIFI access available Presentation panel or screen in all rooms with presenter computer & HDMI connections 10 minute transition times between sessions for set up. On-site technology support Welcome (and encouraged!) to present multiple sessions! Presenters may use their own presentation device but will need to provide their own HDMI adapters compatible with their device. All rooms will have Windows PC presentation device access, HDMI cables, WIFI access, presentation screen or smartboard, speakers, document camera, and AppleTV.

A slide titled 'Session Categories' with a table of session topics.

Curious about what to present?

Here is a list of generic topics that we suggest focusing your session around. We want to see innovation, creativity, student success, and practical usage of modern instructional technology, strategies, and resources.

Vendor Sponsor Packet

Why limit your networking to just one day? We are offering an exclusive 15% Multi-Day Discount for vendors who want to bridge the gap between our InnovateEDU Tech Conference and the MergED conference. Secure your spot for each day to deepen your connections and increase your brand visibility.

Reserve Your Vendor Space

 

Sponsorship Levels Flyer

Location: McMurry University - Garrison Center, Abilene, TX

Duration of Event: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm

Vendor Hall Open: 9:40 am - 2:55 pm (vendor access 7 am)

Anticipated Attendance: 250+ with combined conference attendance of teachers, administrators, counselors, tech directors, and special interest groups.

Participants are required to visit a number of sponsors in order to be eligible for door prizes at the end of the day.



Why Participate?

  • Significant Growth: With the move to a larger venue and a projected 200+ attendees, your exposure and potential connections are greater than ever before.
  • Targeted Audience: Engage directly with educators and administrators passionate about leveraging technology for learning.
  • Tailored sponsorship options: From booth presence to breakout sessions, choose the level that best suits your needs.
  • Additional opportunity: Contribute door prizes to further enhance your brand's visibility and attendee engagement.

Have Questions?

For sponsorship inquiries, please contact:

Shawn Schlueter, Digital Innovation Consultant – sschlueter@esc14.net

Ashley Parker, Digital Innovation Consultant – aparker@esc14.net

Hilary Miller, Digital Innovation Consultant - hmiller@esc14.net


For billing assistance, reach out to:
Emily Jeffrey, Business Manager – ejeffrey@esc14.net

Download Vendor Packet

Lodging Options

We have worked with the Abilene Visitors Center to ensure that we have found rates that reflect our appreciation for your support in attending our conference. Feel free to explore the hotel recommendations that include a special rate if booked no later than May 16, 2026 (30 days prior to your arrival date). 

  • MCM Elegante Suites
    4250 Ridgemont Drive, Abilene, Texas 79606
    Phone: (325) 698-1234 – CALL TO BOOK

    SPECIAL ROOM RATES
    The following special room rates are NET NON-COMMISSIONABLE and are subject to all MCM Eleganté Suites
    occupancy taxes in effect at the time of arrival.

    $110.00 single, $35 each additional guest
    **All rates quoted above are subject to a 6% calendar year increase until event occurs.

    CHECK IN is ANYTIME after 4:00pm, CHECK OUT by 12:00 Noon.
    Check-in time is an estimation only; check-in is based on available clean rooms at the time of your arrival.

    AMENITIES:
    As an overnight guest of the MCM Eleganté Suites, you receive the following:
    Honest to Goodness Two Room Suite
    Complimentary full cooked to order breakfast every morning.
    FREE manager’s reception each evening from 5:30pm-7:00pm.
    FREE wireless internet access.

    MISCELLANEOUS
    The hotel does provide transportation to and from Abilene Regional Airport complimentary. The hotel provides a
    direct phone line to the MCM Eleganté Suites in the baggage claim area to notify the hotel of your need for a
    pickup. The MCM Eleganté Suites is a smoke free environment except for designated smoking suites. Pets are
    welcome, pet fees do apply. All public spaces close at 10pm.

    GUEST ROOM CANCELLATION POLICY
    Any cancellation made within 48 hours of arrival date will be subject to a $25.00 fee per day cancelled.

    METHOD OF PAYMENT: (relates primarily to guest rooms)
    Payment of room, tax and incidentals will be the responsibility of the individuals occupying the guest room.

  • Whitten Inn | Abilene

    3450 South Clack Street, Abilene, TX 79605
    Phone: (325) 695-7700 – CALL TO BOOK, Use group code: InnovateEDU

    whitteninnmall@gmail.com

    Special Daily Rate (June 15 -18, 2026)
    $135.00/night + tax

    CHECK IN TIME: 3:00 PM
    CHECK OUT TIME: 11:00 AM

    AMENITIES

    Handicapped Accessible, Hot Breakfast, Lounge, Meeting Space, Outdoor Pool, Pet Friendly, Wireless Internet

    Located in Abilene, Abilene Whitten Inn is in the business district, a 2-minute drive from Mall of Abilene and 6 minutes from McMurry University. This hotel is 5.4 mi (8.6 km) from Grace Museum and 5.5 mi (8.8 km) from Dyess Air Force Base.