The New Principals Conference, June 16-17, 2026 is co-sponsored by the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP), the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals (MoASSP), and the Missouri Leadership Development System (MLDS).
MLDS
Facilitators from the Missouri Leadership Development System (MLDS), a two-year required program for re-certification, will lead introductory activities with the statewide cohort of new principals. Exemplary principals from across Missouri will also be on hand to present key information in critical areas for new principals.
Conference Bundle for New Principals
MAESP is proud to be a key contributor to the Missouri Leadership Development System (MLDS). Every new principal in Missouri is required to participate in a two-year mentoring program and the MLDS professional development program fulfills that requirement. MAESP's role in the new MLDS is to provide two specific and strategic opportunities for new principals. The first opportunity is the statewide New Principal's Conference and the second opportunity will be integrated into the MAESP Leadership Conference held each March. Therefore, MAESP has bundled the cost of both conferences into a single fee at a savings of $169 over registering for each conference individually. In addition, participants are encouraged to join MAESP for the 2026-2027 membership year (July 1 through June 30). First year members will receive a 25% discount off the active membership rate.
New principals and assistant principals should register for both the New Principal Conference in Columbia and the MAESP Leadership Conference, February 27 - March 2, 2027, at Margaritaville Lake Resort at the Lake of the Ozarks. It will provide the opportunity to reconnect with the network of new principals from the New Principals Conference.
2026 New Principals ConferenceJune 16-17 2026 Courtyard by Marriott Columbia, MO
2027 MAESP Leadership Conference February 27 - March 2, 2027 Margaritaville Lake Resort Osage Beach, MO
Cancellation Policy: Workshop registration cancellations will be accepted ONLY if received 5 business days or more prior to the initial training and will be subject to a $50 administrative charge. Any cancellations not received within 5 business days will be charged the entire fee.
For additional information, please contact the MAESP office at 573-638-2460 or maesp@maesp.com.
Date: June 22-23, 2026
Location: Timber Ridge Barn - 2204 Scott Station Rd., Jefferson City, MO 65109
Keynote Speakers
Dr. Jamie Burkhart Dr. Jamie Burkhart has dedicated over 32 years to leading and supporting Missouri’s public schools, with a steadfast commitment to equity, opportunity, and excellence for all students. As a former rural school district superintendent, she now serves as the Director of Women in Leadership for the Missouri Association of School Administrators (MASA), where she designs meaningful professional development experiences that inspire, connect, and empower female school leaders.
Jamie’s leadership journey hasn’t slowed in “retirement.” She continues to serve Missouri’s schools through her work as a Superintendent Search Consultant with the Missouri Association of Rural Education (MARE), helping rural districts find strong, mission-driven leadership. As MARE New School Board Member Trainer, she also supports new board members through MARE training programs, believing that great governance is foundational to great schools. Jamie walks that talk as apublic school board member, herself. When the Missouri legislature is in session, Jamie proudly assists MASA as a lobby assistant, advocating for public education with passion and purpose.
Adding to her impact beyond schools, Jamie is also a Jon Gordon Certified MLT (Mindset, Leadership, Teamwork) Trainer, equipping students, athletes, teachers, administrators, and businesses with the skills and mindset to thrive together. She delivers keynotes and workshops on The Energy Bus, The Power of Positive Leadership, The Power of a Positive Team, and Difficult Conversations Don’t Have to Be Difficult.
At the heart of all she does is a deep belief in the power of women in leadership and the transformative impact of public education. Whether she's mentoring superintendents or aspiring school superintendents, facilitating learning networks, or lifting voices at the Capitol, Jamie leads with authenticity, compassion, and courage.
Dr. Kasi Lacey
Dr. Kasi Lacey is a nationally recognized psychologist, keynote speaker, and confidence coach who empowers women and workplaces to overcome self-doubt, break free from burnout, and lead with boldness and authenticity.
She blends the science of psychology with actionable leadership strategies to deliver high-impact, transformative keynotes and training that leave audiences inspired and equipped to take action.
With 15+ years of experience as a C-suite executive in higher education and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Dr. Lacey is known for her relatable, energizing speaking style and her deep understanding of what it truly takes to cultivate confidence in leadership—especially for women navigating high-pressure roles.
Dr. Lacey has partnered with corporations, universities, and associations nationwide to help their leaders cultivate confidence, connection, and clarity in the workplace.
Her first book, Your Confidence Comeback, debuts in Spring 2026, offering readers a roadmap to rediscover their voice, rebuild self-trust, and lead unapologetically — both at work and in life.
Whether she’s on stage, on camera, or in a boardroom, Dr. Kasi’s mission is clear: help lead unapologetically and help organizations build thriving, inclusive, and psychologically safe environments.
MAESP invites you to join us this July for the 2026 Educational Office Professionals Conference—an experience designed to support, empower, and elevate school office professionals across Missouri.
This conference is your opportunity to strengthen the skills that keep your school running smoothly while gaining fresh ideas and practical strategies you can bring back to your building. Connect with peers who understand the demands of your role, explore relevant topics impacting today’s school offices, and leave feeling confident, capable, and inspired.
Hosted at the beautiful Margaritaville Lake Resort, this event offers the perfect balance of professional growth and personal renewal. Step away from the day-to-day, invest in yourself, and return to your school recharged and ready to make an even greater impact.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations will be accepted ONLY if received before June 26, 2026 and will be subject to a $50 administrative charge. Any cancellations not received by June 26 will be charged the entire fee.
Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals 3550 Amazonas Drive Jefferson City, MO 65109
Phone: 573-638-2460Fax: 573-556-6270maesp@maesp.com
