NCEA 2025 Convention: Catholic Educators Gather in Orlando
In a significant gathering for Catholic educators, the National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) 2025 Convention commenced this week at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. More than 3,200 educators are participating in this pivotal event from April 22 to 24, focusing on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in education.
This esteemed gathering is one of the largest private education assemblies in the United States. Its attendees include a broad array of Catholic school teachers, administrators, and policymakers. The primary theme of this year’s convention is developing a faith-based approach to artificial intelligence, a topic deemed crucial by the NCEA as AI increasingly influences educational settings.
Embracing Pope Francis’ Legacy
The conference proceeds in the somber context of Pope Francis’ recent passing on Easter Monday. Though mourning his death, attendees are encouraged to reflect on his teachings and integrate his virtues into their mission. “As we pray for his eternal rest, we also pray in this Jubilee of Hope that Catholic school educators will embrace Pope Francis’ call to be pilgrims of hope, bringing Christ’s joy and peace to the world,” said Steven Cheeseman, NCEA president and CEO.
Cheeseman highlighted Pope Francis’ twelve years of leadership, noting his humility and joy, which serve as inspirations for Catholic educators worldwide. “His unwavering focus on the Lord’s mercy and our responsibility to care for the most vulnerable among us are hallmarks of this inspiring servant leader,” Cheeseman noted during his address on Monday.
Diverse Learning Opportunities
The convention is rich with sessions designed to empower and support educators. Topics cover promoting student success, mental health support, integrating students with intellectual disabilities, and transitioning to a classical curriculum – a rising trend in Catholic education. These sessions aim to provide actionable insights for handling contemporary challenges in Catholic schools.
Focus on AI in Education
A significant portion of the conference is dedicated to understanding and incorporating AI in faith-based educational settings. BeeJae Visitacion, NCEA’s director of communications, emphasized the need for integrating AI in a manner that aligns with Catholic values. “AI is transforming the field of education,” Visitacion asserted, “and the conference will address AI from a faith-based perspective to help Catholic school educators lead with both innovation and integrity.”
Keynote speakers, including Dan Fitzpatrick and Father Nate Wills, will explore AI’s ethical dimensions and practical applications in education on April 22 and 24, respectively. Participants will gain insights into ethical AI usage and its potential to enhance rather than replace the role of educators.
Addressing School Choice Impact
With the growing influence of school choice programs, the convention will explore their implications on private education, particularly Catholic schools. Sessions are designed to help leaders develop strategic responses to these changes, examining enrollment trends, funding, and family engagement. “Experts from dioceses with robust school choice programs will share insights, best practices, and real-world data on how these policies are helping Catholic schools grow and thrive,” Visitacion added.
Looking to the Future
The NCEA convention is more than an annual meeting; it is a celebration of Catholic education’s mission and ministry. Future conventions are already on the horizon, scheduled for Minneapolis in April 2026 and Indianapolis in March 2027.
For those interested in further updates and news on technology trends as they intersect with education, follow the latest developments at aitechtrend.com.
Note: This article is inspired by content from Catholic News Agency. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.