October 23, 2025

In education, leadership isn’t just about plans and data, it’s about connection, shared purpose, and inspiring action. AESA is excited to offer Leading Through Stories: The Power of Narrative Practice, a hands-on experience designed to help leaders move teams, communities, and organizations through the power of story.

Based on the Public Narrative framework developed by Dr. Marshall Ganz at Harvard Kennedy School, the workshop guides participants through three core stories that define effective leadership:

• The Story of Self — communicate your values through lived experience.

• The Story of Us — build shared identity and collective purpose.

• The Story of Now — mobilize others toward urgent, hopeful action.

Available as a half-day or full-day immersive workshop, this experience engages participants through interactive exercises, guided reflection, and personalized coaching. Attendees leave with a compelling personal leadership narrative, practical tools to coach others, and a scalable framework for embedding storytelling across teams, schools, and organizations.  

Interested in hosting a session for your ESA?

Contact Jessica Huizenga, Chief Program Officer, at jhuizenga@aesa.us.

The AESA Global Educator Field Studies are open to all ESA staff and board members, offering two immersive experiences taking place this summer designed to ignite inspiration, foster meaningful connections, and broaden your global understanding of education.

Austria-Hungary Program Overview

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Vietnam–Japan Program Overview

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Trip Investment: $5,200 per member
(includes airfare, hotel stays, most meals, and admission fees)

Registration Deadline: December 1, 2025

We know this is a quick turnaround, but we want to give members as much planning time as possible. We are currently recruiting ESA staff and board members for these trips, and if space allows, guests age 18 and older may also be considered. 

Please contact Jason Hiruo, Chief Global Officer, or Meimei Zou, Director of Projects, with any questions or to begin the reservation process.

Don’t miss this chance to explore innovative education systems and return inspired to make an impact at home!

December 3-5, 2025  |  The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO
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Business Strategy Framework 1.0

December 5-6, 2025  |  The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO
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2026 Virtual Federal Advocacy Committee

January 20 from 1:00-4:00 pm ET  |  Virtual Meeting  

January 21 from 1:00-4:00 pm ET  |  Virtual Meeting  

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