GYTO Fest 2025: The Ultimate Guide for Educators - The Flip Side Podcast Special

Jun 23

Are you ready to supercharge your teaching, connect with passionate educators, and experience a conference like no other? The 2025 Get Your Teach On National Conference is just around the corner, and this year’s event promises to be the most dynamic, inclusive, and inspiring yet! Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned conference-goer, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know—straight from the voices of the conference hosts and organizers.

Let’s dive into the main themes, actionable tips, and expert insights that will help you make the most of your Get Your Teach On experience!

A Conference Like No Other: What Sets GYTO Apart

Get Your Teach On isn’t your average education conference. From the moment you step into the venue, you’ll notice the difference: vibrant colors, contagious energy, and a community that feels more like a family reunion than a professional gathering.

What makes GYTO unique?

Attendee-driven content: Sessions are crafted based on real feedback from educators, not just what’s trending.
Open proposal process: Anyone in the community can submit session ideas, ensuring the content is relevant and diverse.
Focus on the whole teacher: GYTO invests in you as a person, not just as an educator.

Tracks & Sessions: Tailored Learning for Every Educator

This year, GYTO features 12 different tracks and over 100 breakout sessions—a testament to the conference’s commitment to meeting educators where they are.

Key Highlights:

Grade-level tracks: Continue to be a staple, offering targeted strategies for every teaching stage.
Special Education Track: New for this year, with dedicated sessions and top-tier presenters.
Schoolhouse Track: Designed for entire school teams to learn and grow together.

Actionable Tips:

Review the session list in advance: Use the conference app and magazine to plan your schedule.
Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to step outside your grade level or specialty—cross-pollination leads to innovation!
Attend the webinar replay: If you’re still on the fence, the free webinar on the GYTO website addresses common misconceptions and offers a behind-the-scenes look.

Inclusivity & Community: The Heart of GYTO

At GYTO, community isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation. The organizers have gone above and beyond to ensure every educator feels seen, heard, and valued.

How GYTO Fosters Inclusivity:

No labels, just unity: Instead of singling out roles (like “special education teacher”) on t-shirts, the focus is on themes that promote togetherness.
Diverse presenters: Sessions are led by educators from all backgrounds and experiences.
Support beyond your school: Connect with like-minded teachers from across the nation.

Actionable Tips:

Engage in community events: Attend meetups, join group discussions, and don’t hesitate to introduce yourself.
Celebrate your role: While GYTO avoids labels, they celebrate every educator’s unique contribution—bring your pride and passion!

Live Model Lessons: Real Strategies in Real Time

One of the most exciting innovations this year is the introduction of live model lessons—actual students on stage, real teaching in action, and authentic classroom challenges.

Why This Matters:

Authenticity: Teachers will see strategies applied in real time, with students the presenters have never met.
Practicality: Watch how to elevate traditional lessons with creativity and intentionality.
Diverse scenarios: Students from various grade levels will participate, showcasing a range of teaching approaches.

Actionable Tips:

Attend the live model lessons: Even if it’s optional, make time for this session—it’s a rare chance to see theory meet practice.
Take notes on what resonates: Jot down specific strategies or classroom management techniques you can try immediately.
Reflect and discuss: Use the experience as a springboard for conversations with peers.

The Schoolhouse Track: Transforming Schools as Teams

For the first time, GYTO is offering a Schoolhouse Track—a game-changer for schools sending entire teams.

What Makes It Special:

Cohesive learning: Teams stay together, receiving the same content and building a unified vision.
Actionable plans: Walk away with a step-by-step strategy to implement school-wide change.
Shared experience: Strengthen relationships and foster collaboration among colleagues.

Actionable Tips:

Coordinate with your team: Plan to attend sessions together and debrief after each one.
Set goals: Before the conference, identify key areas your school wants to improve.
Follow up: Schedule post-conference meetings to turn inspiration into action.

Main Stage Magic: Keynotes, Performances, and Shared Inspiration

This year’s main stage is packed with star power and inspiration—from Joe Jonas’s special performance to motivational talks by Mickey Smith Jr., Coach Prime (Deion Sanders), and Titus O’Neil.

What to Expect:

Unified messaging: For the first time, main stage content will be delivered to all attendees at once, creating a powerful shared experience.
Personal investment: Keynotes are designed to pour into you as a person, not just as a professional.
High energy: Expect music, laughter, and moments that will reignite your passion for teaching.

Actionable Tips:

Arrive early: Main stage events fill up fast—get a good seat!
Bring your conference magazine: It’s your guide to the event and may include interactive elements for keynotes.
Be open: Let yourself be inspired, even if the message is outside your usual comfort zone.

Theme Days & Conference Culture: Bring Your Whole Self

GYTO is famous for its theme days—a chance to express your personality, connect with others, and have fun!

This Year’s Themes:

Opening Night: Western flair—think boots, hats, and country vibes.
Rock Your School Rally: Sports jerseys and team spirit.
Grade-Level Spirit Day: Show off your grade pride!
Colorful Day: Celebrate creativity and joy with vibrant attire.

Actionable Tips:

Plan your outfits: Don’t be afraid to go all out—this is your time to shine!
Join the fun: Participate in theme days to break the ice and make new friends.
Be yourself: Whether you’re bold and bright or more low-key, there’s a place for you.