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We are excited to announce that the Education Reach for Texans Annual Conference will be held June 10-11 at Texas Woman's University in Denton, Texas!

This year, we're bringing together thought leaders, educators, and advocates from across the state to share insights, strategies, and stories that drive our mission forward. Mark your calendars and join us for an event filled with inspiration, learning, and community.

The conference is a fantastic opportunity to connect with peers, gain valuable knowledge, and be a part of a movement that's making a real difference in the lives of young Texans.

Why Attend?

The 2024 Annual Education REACH for Texans Conference offers a unique opportunity to engage with leading liaisons, educators, policymakers, and advocates who are passionate about shaping the future of education. Here’s what you can expect:
 
  • Inspiring Keynote: Hear from speakers who will share their insights and stories of their educational journeys , challenges, and opportunities in education that made them successful: Jackie Davis & Justin and Alexis Black
  • Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on sessions designed to equip you with practical skills and innovative strategies to enhance your understanding working with youth that have lived experiences.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals, liaisons to exchange ideas, and build lasting partnerships. 
     
    Who Should Attend?
     
  • University and College Liaisons, K-12 Educators, and Administrators
  • Texas Policy Makers
  • CASA Advocates
  • Community Leaders and Social Workers
  • Students With Foster Care and Lived Experience
  • Foster Parents
  • DFPS and Empower Workers
  • Attorney's and Judges in Child Welfare
  • Any agency or organization that is passionate about the future of education and work with youth that have foster care experience.
 
The 2024 Annual Education REACH for Texans Conference is more than just an event; it’s a movement towards a brighter future for education in Texas. Your participation will contribute to meaningful discussions and actionable solutions that will impact the lives of countless students and educators.
We look forward to welcoming you to Denton this June. Together, let’s empower the future of education!

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General Early Bird registration

(before March 1st):  $150

General registration:  $175

Student Registration: $25

Scholarship registration: 
Free for anyone with experience in

foster care ONLY

LOCATION
Texas Woman's University,

Student Union at Hubbard 

303 Administration Dr., 
​Denton, Texas 76204

Refund Notice: Please be advised that starting from May 15th, 2024, we will no longer be able to process any refund requests for conference tickets. This policy ensures that we can efficiently manage resources and logistics for the event.

The Pre-conference event is non- refundable. 

Conference Registration Information

2024 ER4T Annual Conference Schedule

Monday, June 10, 2024

8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Registration

8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. | Continental Breakfast and Coffee

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Pre-Conference Workshop for New Liaisons

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Lunch on your own

12:00 p.m. -1:00 p.m. | Resource Fair

1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. | Welcome

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Keynote Address Jackie Davis

2:30 pm – 3:30 p.m. |  K-12 to Workforce Panel

3:45 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. | Regional Networking Breakouts

5:00 p.m.  |  Sponsored Social Event

 

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.| Continental Breakfast

8:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.| Research Updates

9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. | Students with Experience in Foster Care Panel

10:20 a.m. – 11:20 a.m. | Breakout Session

11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Lunch & Awards

 

12:00-12:30 pm| Lunch speaker Justin Black

12:40 p.m. – 1:40 p.m. | Breakout Sessions

1:50 p.m. – 2:50 p.m. |  Building Buy-In for Campus Support

2:50 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.| Farewell

Graduation Ceremony
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Keynote Speaker
Jackie Davis

Jackie is a beacon of resilience and determination, embodying the spirit of overcoming adversity. Placed into foster care at just eighteen months old, Jackie's early years were marked by instability and hardship as his parents battled addiction. Enduring multiple placements and a failed adoption, Jackie's journey took a turn for the better at thirteen when he found a loving home in Arlington, TX.

Despite the trauma he endured, Jackie transformed his experiences into a catalyst for change. A graduate of the University of North Texas with a Bachelor's in Social Work, Jackie co-founded the groundbreaking organization Persevere UNTil Success Happens (PUSH) during his time at UNT. This award-winning initiative provided vital support for foster care alumni, empowering them to navigate university life successfully.

Jackie's commitment to advocacy led him to complete a Master's in Social Work at the University of Texas at Arlington. He now serves as a Case Supervisor at Dallas CASA, the same organization that advocated and supported him in the foster care system.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Jackie dedicates himself to improving the lives of foster care alumni statewide. As Vice President for Education Reach for Texans, he works to eliminate barriers to success for those attending public colleges and universities in Texas. Furthermore, Jackie is a trusted Parent Advisor for the Children’s Family Counsel at the Reeses Jones Clinic, where he provides invaluable insight and support to families navigating challenging circumstances. Additionally, he serves as a youth mentor for the International Student Foundation (ISF), guiding and inspiring young individuals to reach their full potential despite facing adversity. He has served on the Post-Secondary Education workgroup for the Children's Commission, focusing on strategies to enhance educational experiences for children and youth in Texas foster care.

Jackie's passion for advocacy extends into the arts (www.JubaArt.com), where he utilizes his talents as a visual artist to raise awareness about trauma and mental health. Through his artwork, he champions the cause of abused and neglected children, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to creating a brighter future for all.

Need A Hotel?

Need A Hotel?

When it comes to finding a quality hotel in North Texas, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly option, it's important to consider your needs and preferences. Here are some choices for your convenience. 

Hilton Garden Inn Denton

Holiday Inn Express

Best  Western Premiere 

Thank you to our sponsors:

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