AMERICA'S BEST SCHOOLS SYMPOSIUM
SAN DIEGO, CA
MARCH 9-10, 2027
The Gears That Drive School Success
The 2027 NCUST America’s Best Schools Symposium offers educators an extraordinary opportunity to learn directly from schools that are achieving outstanding results for all students.
For two days, participants will engage with the winners of the 2026 America’s Best Schools Award, explore the systems and practices that drive exceptional student outcomes, and visit two of San Diego’s high-performing schools. Through keynote presentations, panels, high-performing school visits, and collaborative learning experiences, attendees will gain practical strategies they can implement immediately to strengthen teaching, leadership, school culture, and student achievement.
Whether you are a teacher, instructional coach, principal, district leader, or aspiring administrator, this symposium will provide actionable insights from educators who have demonstrated what is possible when schools are committed to excellence for every student.
SYMPOSIUM REGISTRATION
In-person $450
Virtual $50 (One day event March 9th)
WHY ATTEND?
Learn from Proven Success
Hear directly from the 2026 America’s Best Schools Award winners as they share the practices, systems, and leadership approaches that have generated outstanding results for diverse student populations. NCUST’s award-winning schools demonstrate excellence across multiple measures of student success and serve as powerful examples of what can be achieved when schools focus relentlessly on learning and equity.
Discover Practical Strategies
Participate in sessions focused on:
- Building strong school cultures
- Increasing academic rigor
- Effective instructional practices
- Leadership for continuous improvement
- Student engagement and belonging
- Collaborative professional learning
- Supporting diverse learners
- Systems that drive sustainable success
Connect with Educational Leaders
Network with educators from across the nation who are committed to improving outcomes for all students.
Visit High-performing Schools
See Excellence in Action
In-person attendees will have the opportunity to visit one of two high-performing San Diego schools and learn directly from educators who are achieving exceptional results for students.
These school visits will provide participants with an inside look at the leadership practices, instructional strategies, school cultures, and systems that contribute to sustained success. Attendees will observe learning in action, engage with school leaders, and leave with practical ideas that can be adapted to their own schools and districts.
School visit details will be announced as the symposium approaches.
LOCATION
Health Sciences High and Middle College
Health Sciences High & Middle College (HSHMC) is a tuition-free public charter school in San Diego, California that serves high school students with a unique blend of rigorous academics and real-world career preparation. The school’s mission centers on preparing students for success in college and meaningful careers—especially in health sciences—by integrating standards-based coursework with hands-on experiences, internships, and the opportunity to earn college credits while completing high school. HSHMC partners with institutions like Sharp HealthCare and local community colleges to offer pathways in patient care, emergency services, and other health-related fields, giving students practical exposure to professional environments. Built as a supportive, family-like community, the school emphasizes personalized learning, academic excellence, and respect for diversity, helping graduates enter higher education or the workforce with confidence and valuable skills.
3910 University Ave, San Diego, CA
LODGING
Health Sciences High & Middle College is conveniently located near San Diego’s Hotel Circle, making lodging easy and accessible for Symposium attendees. Hotel Circle offers a wide range of hotel options at various price points, all within a short drive of the event site. Public transportation is available, and a quick Uber or Lyft ride makes getting to and from the Symposium simple and convenient. Below are links to some popular oprions.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott San Diego Mission Valley
Modern all-suite hotel in the heart of Mission Valley
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Mission Valley/Hotel Circle
Popular Marriott brand right in the heart of Hotel Circle.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites San Diego – Mission Valley (IHG)
Well-reviewed Holiday Inn Express option.
Crowne Plaza San Diego – Mission Valley (IHG)
Full-service IHG property slightly north on Hotel Circle.
Hampton Inn San Diego/Mission Valley (Hilton)
Known Hilton brand with solid service.
Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area
Hilton extended-stay style with spacious suites.
