OCCS Annual Convocation
OCCS kicks off each school year by hosting a Convocation designed to engage, uplift, and inspire school staff in our 48 sponsored schools.
2024 Theme: Innovate. Educate. Elevate. Chartering the Next Era.
OCCS Annual Convocation
The OCCS Annual Convocation is a one day training and networking event designed specifically for the needs of OCCS sponsored schools. The Convocation is broken into two days: the first day is dedicated to our brick-and-mortar schools and the second day is for our eSchools.
OCCS is proud to have partnered with world-renowned keynote speakers over the years, including Ruby Payne, Michael Bonner, Ron Clark, Tom Vanderark, and Howard Fuller. Trainings are provided to school staff in the areas of special education, leadership, academic learning loss, data analysis, school leadership and mental health. Last year's theme was Celebrating 20 Years of Advancing Education through Leadership and Innovation. Convocation attendees were able to access a wellness room and attend sessions geared towards CTE, improving student and staff wellness, science of reading, leadership, and more.
Photos from 2023's event are located on our Facebook page!
Save the Date for Convocation 2024: August 7-8, 2024
Now calling for session proposals!
If you are interested in presenting at Convocation 2024, please complete a session proposal here. The proposal submission deadline is April 1, 2024.
OCCS Annual Convocation 2024
August 7th, 2024
Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel
OCCS Annual eSchool Convocation 2024
August 8th, 2024
Renaissance Columbus Westerville-Polaris Hotel
2024 Keynote Speakers
August 7, 2024
Geoffrey Canada
Author & Children's Advocate
Geoffrey Canada is an American educator, social activist, and author. Since 1990, Canada has been president of the Harlem Children's Zone in Harlem, New York, an organization that states its goal is to increase high school and college graduation rates among students in Harlem. Canada is featured prominently in the film Waiting for Superman.
Read Geoffrey Canada's full bio here.
Justin Shaifer
Linkedin Top Voice in Technology, Science TV Show Host & STEM Educator
Justin "Mr. Fascinate" Shaifer is recognized for transforming STEM education through engaging content and innovative technologies. Founder of Fascinate Media, he aims to inspire youth towards STEM careers, leveraging his background and social media influence.
Read Justin Shaifer's full bio here.
August 8, 2024
The Experience
We are thrilled to be back at The Renaissance Hotel in Westerville on August 7, 2024 (Brick-and-Mortar) and August 8, 2024 (eSchool). From start to finish, your time at The OCCS Convocation will be customizable with our easy-to-use mobile app. Attendees will be able to learn in large groups, small classrooms, or individually in mental health and wellness spaces.
The pandemic has had a lasting effect on our children, our families, and schools. Mental health concerns and learning loss have taken a toll on us all. Our kids, our families, and our communities are all counting on us to come together as partners to address these issues. Your experience at the OCCS Convocation will be energizing, authentically engaging, and will help you prepare for the 2024-2025 school year!
Registration includes:
- Engaging keynotes
- OCCS swag and giveaways
- Participant-driven interactive sessions
- Breakfast, lunch, snacks and drinks
- Unique networking opportunities
- Access to our Wellness Room, a mindfulness-centered quiet room
