Register now and book your hotel room at the discounted PSU rate!
The PSU room rate will NOT be available after February 14, 2025.

PowerSchool University (PSU)

Chicago, Illinois

July 26-30, 2026

Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile

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What to Expect at PowerSchool University (PSU)

Whether you’re a first-time PSU attendee or a seasoned pro, enjoy personalized support with our Open Lab sessions, one-on-one consultations at the SupportLab, and dynamic courses designed to equip you with the knowledge you need. Outside the classroom, savor catered meals, and make lasting connections during our social activities, including our exclusive Tuesday night social event. Plus, with extended access to our digital curriculum, you’ll continue learning well after the event ends. Don’t miss this event, combining professional growth with the excitement Chicago has to offer!

What’s New at PSU in 2026

This summer, we’re excited to introduce powerful updates and fresh opportunities designed to make your PSU experience more connected, customizable, and family-focused.

Back-to-School Solution Updates

Get hands on with the latest version of all your PowerSchool solutions. Learn about our back-to-school software enhancements and how they can streamline your workflow and elevate collaboration. From improved user interfaces to smarter integrations, these updates ensure you have the tools you need for a successful academic year.

New Advanced Customization Courses

In 2026, the Customization Academy will take a planned one‑year pause—and for a great reason. We’re using this dedicated time to create something you’ve been asking for. Get ready for four brand‑new 300‑ and 400‑level advanced Customization courses and a new security course!

PowerSchool SIS Customizations 375: Customizing Student Contacts (4 hours)
PowerSchool SIS Customizations 465: AngularJS – Diving Deep into Grid Widgets (2 hours)
PowerSchool SIS Customizations 470: AngularJS – Creating an Export Button (2 hours)
PowerSchool SIS Customizations 480: Introducing External APIs (2 hours)
PowerSchool SIS: Security – Auditing System Changes (2 hours)

PSU Express Anaheim: MTSS Workshop

Multi‑Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) provides a structured, data‑driven framework to identify student needs early and deliver the right level of academic, behavioral, and social‑emotional support. By aligning instruction, interventions, and progress monitoring, MTSS helps ensure equitable outcomes and sustained success for every learner.

Great news! Participation in the PSU Express Chicago: MTSS Workshop is included in your PSU Chicago tuition at no additional cost. This immersive two‑day workshop is designed to deliver focused, hands‑on learning to help you strengthen your MTSS practices.

When class registration opens, the MTSS Workshop will be available as a course selection option, making it easy to add this experience to your PSU Chicago schedule.

Learn more about the PSU Express Chicago: MTSS Workshop

New Networking Opportunities

Connect like never before. We’re rolling out expanded networking programs, including virtual meetups, peer learning circles, and community forums. Build relationships, share insights, and grow together in a vibrant PSU community.

Celebrating Family Engagement

This year’s theme is Celebrating Family Engagement—because strong partnerships between schools and families drive student success. Look for new resources, sessions, and initiatives that help you bring families closer to the learning experience.

Details

Venue

Additional Resources

Hands-on Training Within PowerSchool Solutions

Explore our comprehensive curriculum of topics and training sessions designed to empower attendees at this event. Plan ahead to make the most of your learning experience!

Celebrating Family Engagement

At PSU 2026, we’re proud to spotlight a theme that resonates deeply across education communities: Celebrating Family Engagement. We believe that when families are meaningfully involved, student success grows stronger. This year’s event will continue to deliver the high-quality training PSU is known for, while also expanding our focus to include tools and strategies that empower districts to build stronger connections with families.

In addition to hands-on sessions and expert-led workshops, attendees will receive curated resources designed to support family engagement efforts back home. Whether you’re looking to enhance communication, foster collaboration, or create inclusive learning environments, PSU 2026 will equip you with practical materials and inspiration to bring families into the heart of your district’s success story.

Celebrating Family Engagement

PowerSchool University 2026 Cookbook

In celebration of our 2026 theme of Family Engagement, we're creating a special PSU 2026 Cookbook, and we'd love for you to be part of it! We invite you to submit a favorite recipe that reflects your family, culture, or a tradition you cherish. Your contribution will help us create a meaningful collection that represents the diverse communities we serve. At the end of the year, you will have access to a cookbook from all 2026 PSU attendees and staff as part of your event experience.

Announcing PSU Pals

Are you attending PowerSchool University for the first time? Or are you an experienced PSU attendee who enjoys the PSU program? Either way, we have a new program that we think you are going to love!

PSU Pals pairs first-time attendees with experienced PSU participants to create a more meaningful experience for both people. Join PSU Pals and discover that learning, laughing, and leveling up is way more fun when you’ve got a partner right there beside you!

Why Join PSU Pals?

New to PSU?

Receive guidance on schedules, sessions, and event logistics
Have a direct point of contact for questions and recommendations
Feel welcomed and supported from the moment you arrive

Returning to PSU?

Share your expertise and give back to the community
Build meaningful connections with peers
Help shape an exceptional first experience for new attendees

How It Works

Introducing our New Talent Product Track at PSU!

We’re thrilled to introduce brand-new course offerings for PowerSchool’s Talent Recruitment & Retention Solutions! This training track is designed for HR teams, school and district leaders, and professional development specialists. These sessions will help you streamline hiring, manage staff records, improve evaluations, and elevate your coaching and mentoring practices.

Explore CEU-eligible Talent courses including:

Applicant Tracking – Dive into enhanced portals, sourcing, and admin tools
Employee Records & Perform – Learn form building, workflows, rubrics, and reporting
Coaching & Mentoring – Discover our brand-new AI-powered tool to support teacher growth
SmartFind Express – Master absence tracking, reports, and system administration
Professional Learning + Schoology Integration – Deliver impactful, scalable PD
Designing Professional Development for Adult Learners – Redesign your PD with proven adult learning principles in this product-independent session from our Proven Practices team

Access our course catalog to find out more about our Talent courses offerings.

PowerSchool University Merchandise

What's included with tuition?

Tuition for PowerSchool University includes the following amenities:

4 Days of Training

Attend four days of training within PowerSchool solutions to gain hands-on professional development for novice to advanced PowerSchool users.

Course Content – Curriculum Connection (CC)

Access digital curriculum for a variety of PowerSchool solutions. This access extends beyond your week at PSU so that you can continue learning!

Catered Event Meals

Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and refreshment breaks on instructional days (Monday-Thursday).

Social Event & Networking Opportunities

Take advantage of several networking events throughout the week, including our signature Tuesday night social, which features a reception and entertainment exclusively for PSU attendees.

Tuition does not include travel, lodging, ground transportation, or other expenses.

The PSU Learning Experience

We want you to leave PowerSchool University with all of your questions answered. You’ll work directly within PowerSchool solutions and receive step-by-step, hands-on training throughout every course. This specialized training allows you to return to your district and immediately implement what you’ve learned.

You will also receive special, extended PSU access to a sample of our PD+ self-paced training.

Announcing Our Keynote Speaker at PSU Chicago

PowerSchool University is excited to welcome Dr. Tara Downs to PSU Chicago. Dr. Downs is an innovative educational leader and systems transformation specialist currently serving as Assistant Superintendent of Instruction for Caroline County Public Schools. She leads districtwide efforts across instruction, student services, and special populations, partnering with school boards, educators, and families to ensure every student is empowered for success.

Guided by her CliftonStrengths—Input, Strategic, Intellection, Arranger, and Futuristic—Dr. Downs is known for translating complex data into actionable strategies that drive measurable results. Since 2022, she has led the redesign of the district’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), reducing Tier III placements from over 30% to under 15%, increasing ELA and math proficiency, improving attendance and student behavior outcomes, and reducing instructional expenditures by $1.5 million through strategic resource alignment. Dr. Downs has also driven measurable improvements in daily attendance and a reduction in chronic absenteeism and disciplinary incidents.

With more than 20 years of K–12 experience as a principal, assistant principal, and school librarian, Dr. Downs bridges policy and practice. She holds an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction and serves as an adjunct professor at Towson University. A frequent speaker on data-driven change, she previously shared her wisdom at other PowerSchool conferences.

Jason Springel, PowerSchool Evangelist

Get ready to be inspired at PSU Anaheim, where this year’s event promises fresh insights, dynamic sessions, and top-tier expertise! We’re excited to welcome Jason Springel, PowerSchool’s influential Evangelist, as one of our keynote speakers. With nearly two decades at PowerSchool, Jason brings unmatched knowledge and passion to every session. Don’t miss your chance to experience his insights live and discover why listeners tune in to the PowerSchool Insider podcast for his latest tips, trends, and industry perspectives. Join us and connect with the PowerSchool community like never before!

PSU Social Event

Join us for a reception and Major League Baseball game at Rate Field!  Enjoy food and drink on the White Sox Patio, then grab a stadium seat as you watch the Chicago White Sox take on the New York Yankees on the evening of Tuesday, July 28.

4:30-6:00 pm – busses available to Rate Field
5:00-7:00 pm – PSU networking reception on the Patio
6:40 pm-end* – Chicago White Sox vs. New York Yankees
6:30-10:00 pm* – busses available to return to Marriott Magnificent Mile
*Game times vary but are estimated at two and a half hours.  Guests can arrive and leave at their leisure according to the schedule above. 

The cost of the social event is included in your PSU Chicago registration, but all PSU attendees must RSVP for this event. Attendees may bring a single guest for the discounted rate of $110 USD.

To sign up for or decline this event, go to My Registrations and choose RSVP under Exclusives.  There is no additional cost for your participation in the social event.

If you wish to bring a single guest, you must RSVP by June 6 by selecting Attending with Guest and providing their name. Guest tickets are available at the discounted rate of $110 USD, payable in advance via CVENT.

All attendees and guests must be 21 or older.

Please note the Rate Park bag policy and be sure to pack accordingly.

PSU Schedule

Below is a general schedule for this onsite PSU event. This schedule is subject to change as we continue to create new content.

Sunday

5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.
Check-In
Bring your Device

Monday

7:00 a.m.–8:00 a.m.
Breakfast & Welcome
Late Check-In

8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
2-hour Session

10:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Break

10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
2-hour Session

10:30 a.m.–11:20 a.m.
1-hour Session

11:40 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
1-hour Session

12:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Lunch

2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
2-hour Session

4:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Break

4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.
1-hour Session,
Open Lab

5:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
Networking Mixer & Dance Party

Tuesday

6:00 a.m.-6:30 a.m.
1 mile PowerWalk

7:00 a.m.–8:00 a.m.
Breakfast

8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
2-hour Session

10:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Break

10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
2-hour Session

12:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Lunch

2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
2-hour Session

4:30 p.m.–end

Social Event

Wednesday

7:00 a.m.–8:00 a.m.
Breakfast

8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
2-hour Session

10:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Break

10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
2-hour Session

10:30 a.m.–11:20 a.m.
1-hour Session

11:40 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
1-hour Session

12:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Lunch

2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
2-hour Session

4:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Break

4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.
1-hour Session,
Open Lab

Thursday

7:00 a.m.–8:00 a.m.
Breakfast
(Spirit Day)

8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
2-hour Session

10:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Break

10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
2-hour Session

12:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Lunch

2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
2-hour Session

4:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Break

4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m.
Open Lab

Limited Edition Souvenir

You asked, we listened! One of the most consistent pieces of feedback we received from PSU attendees was how much you love our PSU backpacks—and we couldn’t agree more. That’s why we’re excited to announce that the beloved PSU backpack is making its return in 2026! Whether you’re collecting them year after year or receiving your first, we’re thrilled to bring back this favorite tradition. It’s our way of saying thank you for being part of the PSU family—and giving you something practical, stylish, and memorable to take home.

Show Your School Spirit on Thursday!

We’re bringing the school spirit to PowerSchool University! Thursday is Spirit Day, and we encourage all attendees to wear their favorite spirit wear from their school—whether it’s from your district, alma mater, or the school you support.

This is a great way to represent your community, spark conversations, and connect with fellow educators. Don’t forget to pack your spirit gear and show off your school pride!

Connecting Communities

This year’s PSU theme, “Connecting Communities,” celebrates community-based partnerships in education. At each event, we will feature a local non-profit, highlighting how community efforts can serve as a unifying force in education. We will also spotlight PSU attendees, schools, and districts for their efforts in positively impacting their communities. Join us as we foster connections and celebrate the power of community engagement this year at PSU.

Welcome, Orange County Animal Allies to PSU Anaheim!

OC Animal Allies is a non-profit organization whose programs are aimed at saving the lives of animals by providing community education, emergency resources, and referral services to Orange County community residents. By working towards strengthening the human-animal bond, the organization envisions a community where all animals are cared for with the love and respect they deserve and where people can experience the unconditional love that only animals can give.

Maximize Your Learning and Savings at PSU!

Our training events offer the perfect mix of in-depth learning and hands-on application, ensuring valuable takeaways for every attendee. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skills or discover new skills, we’ve got something for everyone!

Special Group Offer: Buy 5 Seats, Get 1 FREE!

Bring your team and make the most of our exclusive group discount. Purchase 5 seats for this PSU event, and we’ll give you the 6th seat absolutely free!

Ready to save and learn? Contact us at servicessolutions@powerschool.com for more information.

Maximize Your Learning and Savings at PSU!

Special Group Offer: Buy 5 Seats, Get 1 Free!

Bring your team and make the most of our exclusive group discount. Purchase 5 seats for this PSU event, and we’ll give you the 6th seat absolutely free! Ready to save and learn? Contact us at servicessolutions@powerschool.com for more information.

Hear from our previous attendees...

“I am delighted by the possibilities this presents for our team of educators, administrators, and counselors to better serve our students.”

Ellie GilbertSt Mary's Academy

“This was my first-time attending PSU and I loved it! Would absolutely love to attend again in the future. Everyone was very nice and the staff/teachers were very knowledgeable and I truly learned a lot. Thank you to everyone who was involved in the conference!”

Angelique MaliziaCorrales International School

“This was a great experience. I found all the instructors were excellent across the board. Every trainer had exceptional content knowledge, pedagogical skills, and genuinely cared the students were learning the content.”

Daniel KmittaSouth Bend Community School Corp

Steps away from iconic attractions, flagship shopping, and the historical landmarks the city is famous for, experience downtown Chicago at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile. On one side of the hotel, experience Shedd Aquarium, Wrigley Field, Navy Pier, and United Center, or on the other, visit the city’s River North neighborhood – the hub of dining, entertainment, and nightlife with over 170 restaurants and 138 bars within an 8-block radius of the property. Chicago is a city that’s never done growing, dreaming, and innovating — and the dynamic cultural scene is no exception. The birthplace of the skyscraper, the city is home to a rich architectural legacy that includes everything from historic landmarks to modern marvels. The birthplace of house music and Chicago-style jazz, Chicago is a city not to be missed. To learn more about the city, visit choosechicago.com.

Event Check In Location: 7th Floor Registration

Event Check In Date: Sunday, July 26; 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Late Conference Check In Date: Monday, July 27; 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.*
*Unfortunately, conference check-in after 7:30 a.m. on Monday does not allow time for breakfast.

During check-in, you’ll receive:

In an effort to control event cost, PowerSchool University will not have replacement laptops available. To actively participate in hands-on activities and to access curriculum, bring a laptop with you. Your laptop must have administrative access in order to download any required content or programs. Please work with your IT department to ensure you have access.  Learn more about hardware recommendations.

PowerSchool University is casual, so please wear what is comfortable to you. Keep in mind that temperatures in the meeting spaces can be unpredictable, so we recommend bringing a sweater and dressing in layers.

A Certificate of Participation will be made available to all participants on Customer Education Campus. Instructions for accessing the certificate will be sent via email at the conclusion of the event.

Sessions and meals take place at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile . We’ve arranged a nightly discount rate of $269 + tax USD.

Book your room at the preferred rate by 5:00 pm CT on Friday, July 3 using the dedicated PSU online reservation site or call (312) 836-0100.

Rooms are available on a first come, first served basis
Reservations received after Friday, July 3 may not receive the discount conference rate and will be accepted based on availability
A credit card deposit equal to one night’s stay is required to hold each individual reservation
Want to extend your stay? The preferred rate is available three days prior and three days after the event, based on availability.
Check-in time is 4:00 pm, check-out time is 11:00 am.

The recommended Airport is Chicago Midway Airport (MDW), approximately 12 miles from the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile.  You can also fly into the O’Hare Airport (ORD), which is a larger airport and has more airline options but is approximately 17 miles from the venue.

Self-parking is available at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile at the rate of $35 USD daily. The parking facility is located at 50 East Ohio and is not owned or operated by the hotel.

To cancel your registration, please email psu@powerschool.com as soon as possible, but no later than 5:00 p.m. (PT) on Friday, June 26, 2026. Any cancellation request received after this date will be subject to a 50% cancellation fee. If you cannot attend and do not cancel your request, you will be responsible for the full registration fee.

Save $200 off PowerSchool University Summer events when you register by January 31, 2026!

Save $200 off PowerSchool University Summer events when you register by January 31, 2026!

Register now and book your hotel room at the discounted PSU rate! The PSU room rate will NOT be available after February 14, 2025.

PowerSchool University (PSU)

Chicago, Illinois

July 26-30, 2026

Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile

What to Expect at PowerSchool University (PSU)

What’s New at PSU in 2026

Back-to-School Solution Updates

New Advanced Customization Courses

PSU Express Anaheim: MTSS Workshop

New Networking Opportunities

Celebrating Family Engagement

Details

Venue

Additional Resources

Hands-on Training Within PowerSchool Solutions

Celebrating Family Engagement​​

Celebrating Family Engagement​​

PowerSchool University 2026 Cookbook​

Announcing PSU Pals

Why Join PSU Pals?

New to PSU?

Returning to PSU? ​​

How It Works

Introducing our New Talent Product Track at PSU!

PowerSchool University Merchandise

What's included with tuition?

4 Days of Training

Course Content – Curriculum Connection (CC)

Catered Event Meals

Social Event & Networking Opportunities

The PSU Learning Experience

Hands-on Training

Open Lab Access

Support Lab Access

Event Networking

CEUs and Certifications

Extended Curriculum Access

Announcing Our Keynote Speaker at PSU Chicago

Jason Springel, PowerSchool Evangelist

PSU Social Event

PSU Schedule

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Limited Edition Souvenir

Show Your School Spirit on Thursday!

Connecting Communities

Welcome, Orange County Animal Allies to PSU Anaheim!

Maximize Your Learning and Savings at PSU!

Special Group Offer: Buy 5 Seats, Get 1 FREE!

Maximize Your Learning and Savings at PSU!

Special Group Offer: Buy 5 Seats, Get 1 Free!

Hear from our previous attendees...

Register now and book your hotel room at the discounted PSU rate!
The PSU room rate will NOT be available after February 14, 2025.

Celebrating Family Engagement

Celebrating Family Engagement

PowerSchool University 2026 Cookbook

Returning to PSU?