Closing General Session

The convention’s Closing General Session is chock full of warmth, emotion and excitement! All convention attendees are welcome!

Mark your calendars:

Closing General Session
Friday, March 20
4-5:30 p.m.
Kansas City Convention Center

Keynote Panel Discussion — Global Games, Local Impact: Building the Future of Physical Education

Americans are experiencing an unprecedented decade of playing host to some of the globe’s largest mega-sporting events — from the FIFA 26 World Cup to the 2028 Olympics to the 2031 Men’s Rugby World Cup and the (hopeful) 2031 Women’s FIFA World Cup. These events bring more than excitement; they create a national moment where youth are paying attention and communities are investing.

This panel discussion explores how educators can harness that momentum to elevate physical education, build lifelong healthy habits, and bring new resources, partnerships and opportunities into schools. Together, we’ll identify strategies to ensure these global moments become millions more moments for students across the country.

Moderator:

Stephanie A. Morris, CEO, SHAPE America

Featured Panelists:

Ed Foster-Simeon, President & CEO, U.S. Soccer Foundation

Sheila Sickau, Head of Football Development, Kansas City Chiefs

   

National Teachers of the Year Announcement

During the Closing General Session, we will recognize the 2026 SHAPE America District Teachers of the Year and announce the new SHAPE America National Teachers of the Year!

SHAPE America's Teacher of the Year Program recognizes outstanding teachers in the following categories:

  • Adapted Physical Education
  • Health Education
  • Elementary Physical Education
  • Middle School Physical Education
  • High School Physical Education

Don’t miss the opportunity to honor and celebrate these inspiring teachers!

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Sponsors

Thank you to the Closing General Session sponsors!

The Teacher of the Year Program is sponsored by the Partner Network: