Above & Beyond Teacher Symposium

Each November, the Above & Beyond Symposium brings current and past honorees together for a powerful day of professional development, reflection, and connection. Designed as a space to learn from one another, share practice, and strengthen relationships, the Symposium deepens our educator community and extends its impact beyond individual classrooms.

For newly recognized honorees, the Symposium is often their first experience of a professional development community like no other. It offers a glimpse into the network they are joining and the collective wisdom of extraordinary educators across California. Through thoughtful dialogue, collaborative sessions, and shared reflection, honorees gain new insight into their craft while discovering the strength of a community built on mentorship, respect, and shared purpose.

More than a single gathering, the Symposium marks the beginning of an ongoing relationship. Honorees leave with fresh inspiration, practical ideas, and meaningful connections with colleagues who understand the complexity and promise of teaching. It is where recognition grows into community, mentorship takes root, and educators begin to see themselves as part of a larger movement advancing the profession.

Two people, an elderly woman and a middle-aged man, smiling and engaging in conversation at a conference table with papers, water bottles, and name tags.
A man in a white shirt standing next to a presentation screen titled "The Power of Mentoring" with an illustration of raised hands. An older man in a blue jacket is sitting next to a microphone, speaking to an audience in a conference room.
A man with glasses holding a microphone speaking to a group at a panel discussion, with two other men seated beside him and a whiteboard in the background.
A group of nine people seated around a rectangular outdoor table with papers, notebooks, and drinks, engaging in a discussion on a brick-paved patio surrounded by plants and greenery.
Man speaking into a microphone during a panel discussion, with other panelists and a woman standing behind him.
A group of people attending a workshop or seminar in a bright room with large windows, raising their hands. The room has round tables with materials, and there is a presenter standing at a podium on the right side, with a screen displaying a green fl
Woman in orange patterned blouse talking passionately during a discussion in a bright room with large windows and trees outside.