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100 Top Educational Leadership Speakers (2026)

  • Writer: Jonno White
    Jonno White
  • Dec 30, 2025
  • 27 min read

Finding the perfect speaker for your educational leadership event requires more than browsing bureau listings. Whether you are planning a professional development session for school leaders, a conference for educational institutions, or a leadership development workshop, the right speaker transforms how principals, superintendents, and teachers approach their work.


This comprehensive directory features 100 educational leadership speakers who deliver fresh perspectives on everything from student achievement to workplace cultures. These dynamic keynote speakers represent the best in the field of education, bringing research, practical insights, and real world strategies to audiences seeking meaningful change.


The education system faces unprecedented challenges. From artificial intelligence transforming classrooms to mental health concerns affecting student success, today's education leaders need speakers who understand both the theoretical foundations and everyday life realities of schools. The top education speakers on this list deliver actionable strategies that create lasting impact.


Diverse female keynote speaker addressing a large conference of school principals, speaking on stage to an engaged audience of hundreds of education leaders.

How to Choose the Right Educational Keynote Speaker


Before exploring this directory, consider these evaluation criteria that separate exceptional educational speakers from average presenters.


Evidence of Implementation Impact: Does this speaker provide frameworks that work on Monday morning? The best educational motivational speakers combine inspiration with practical application. Look for speakers whose methods have been tested in real schools with measurable outcomes in student engagement and achievement.


Audience Alignment: A speaker perfect for elementary school principals may miss the mark with higher education administrators. Consider whether the speaker's experience aligns with your specific context, including school type, leadership roles, and current challenges.


Research Credibility vs Practitioner Experience: Some audiences need the authority of a best selling author with academic credentials. Others respond better to someone who has walked the halls as a classroom teacher or assistant principal. Many outstanding speakers combine both.


Follow Through Support: What happens after the event day? Speakers who offer implementation resources, coaching, or professional learning communities provide greater return on investment than those who deliver a single keynote and disappear.


Communication Excellence: For topics involving difficult conversations, conflict management, or managing underperformance, you need a speaker who has proven frameworks. Jonno White's bestselling book Step Up or Step Out (https://www.amazon.com/Step-Up-Out-Difficult-Employees/dp/B0CQGV9HMV) provides a proven three stage framework for handling these situations. With over 10,000 copies sold globally, leaders from the UK to Singapore have used this approach successfully.


If you are unsure where to start, Jonno White helps school leaders and educational institutions navigate these exact decisions. As a Certified Working Genius Facilitator with global experience across schools, corporates, and nonprofits, Jonno often serves as a trusted first conversation for leaders planning events. Contact jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss your upcoming event.


A Note on Travel and International Speakers


Many readers assume that working face to face with a speaker from another city or country is prohibitively expensive. This assumption often leads to settling for a less ideal local option. Having Jonno White travel nationally or internationally for face to face work is often far more affordable than people expect. Travel costs are frequently comparable to, or cheaper than, high profile local options. Many clients are surprised to find that flying Jonno in from Brisbane can cost less than engaging a well known local provider. National and international travel is a normal part of his work, not an exception.


Research and Evidence Based Educational Leadership Speakers


These speakers bring academic rigor and meta analysis to educational leadership. Their work shapes education policy and provides the evidence base that drives school improvement initiatives worldwide.


1. John Hattie, Melbourne, Australia


Creator of Visible Learning and director of the Melbourne Educational Research Institute. His meta analysis of 800+ studies involving 80 million students provides the most comprehensive evidence base for what works in education. Essential for system leaders seeking research backed improvement strategies.

Specialty: Evidence based instruction, Visible Learning framework

Best for: Education systems, policy leaders, district administrators


2. Michael Fullan, Toronto, Canada


Former Dean of OISE and globally recognized authority on educational change leadership. His work on system reform, coherence, and deep learning has influenced education policy in dozens of countries. Known for connecting moral purpose with strategic implementation.

Website: michaelfullan.ca

Specialty: System reform, change leadership, coherence

Best for: Government education departments, large district transformations


3. Carol Ann Tomlinson, Virginia, United States


The definitive voice on differentiated instruction with decades of research and hundreds of publications. Her frameworks help teachers respond to academic diversity while maintaining high expectations for all learners. A former Teacher of the Year who bridges theory and practice.

Website: caroltomlinson.com

Specialty: Differentiated instruction, curriculum design

Best for: Curriculum leaders, instructional coaches, teacher professional development


4. Robert J. Marzano, Colorado, United States


Co founder of Marzano Resources and author of over 30 books on instruction, assessment, and school leadership. His frameworks for classroom strategies and leadership practices have been adopted by thousands of schools. Known for translating research into practical tools.

Specialty: Instructional frameworks, assessment, effective leadership

Best for: Schools implementing structured improvement frameworks


5. Doug Fisher, San Diego, United States

Professor at San Diego State University and co founder of an innovative school. Member of the Reading Hall of Fame with extensive publications on literacy and professional learning. Translates research into classroom ready strategies that teachers can implement immediately.

Website: fisherandfrey.com

Specialty: Literacy instruction, professional learning design

Best for: Literacy focused initiatives, instructional leadership teams


6. Angela Duckworth, Philadelphia, United States


Author of the New York Times bestseller Grit and professor at the University of Pennsylvania. Her research on perseverance and passion has reshaped how educators think about student success. Represented by The Lavin Agency for speaking engagements.

Specialty: Grit, perseverance, motivation science

Best for: Large conferences seeking research backed keynotes on student achievement


7. David Yeager, Austin, United States


Author of 10 to 25 and Professor of Psychology at UT Austin. His research focuses on motivating young people through developmentally appropriate approaches. Provides science based strategies for engaging adolescents in middle school and high school settings.

Specialty: Adolescent motivation, growth mindset interventions

Best for: Secondary education leaders, student engagement initiatives


8. Mary C. Murphy, Indiana, United States


Bestselling author of Cultures of Growth and Indiana University professor. Founder and CEO of Equity Accelerator. Her work extends growth mindset research to organizational culture, helping educational institutions create environments where all students thrive.

Specialty: Growth mindset cultures, educational equity

Best for: Organizations seeking culture transformation around equity and inclusion


9. Otto Scharmer, Boston, United States


MIT lecturer and creator of Theory U and the Presencing Institute. His work on systems change and cross sector innovation has influenced leaders at organizations including Google, Alibaba, and major education systems. Offers frameworks for leading transformational change.

Website: presencing.org

Specialty: Systems thinking, Theory U, transformational leadership

Best for: System level change initiatives, innovation focused leadership


10. Joseph S. Renzulli, Connecticut, United States


Creator of the Schoolwide Enrichment Model and Three Ring Conception of Giftedness. Named among the 25 most influential psychologists by APA. His frameworks have trained over 35,000 teachers and influenced gifted education programs globally.

Website: gifted.uconn.edu

Specialty: Gifted education, enrichment models, talent development

Best for: Schools developing gifted programs, talent identification initiatives


Looking for a speaker who can translate research into practical application? Jonno White bridges academic frameworks with real school implementation. Email jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss how research based approaches can transform your next professional development session.


School Culture and Practitioner Leadership Speakers


These speakers bring direct experience as principals, superintendents, and school turnaround leaders. Their credibility comes from having done the work in real schools with documented results.


11. Jonno White, Brisbane, Australia


Certified Working Genius Facilitator, dynamic keynote speaker, and bestselling author of Step Up or Step Out. Jonno helps leaders build workplace cultures that employees move cities to join and customers line up to experience. With testimonials from leaders across the UK, India, Canada, Singapore, South Africa, and the United States, his global reach spans schools, corporates, and nonprofits.


Host of The Leadership Conversations Podcast with listeners in 150+ countries and founder of The 7 Questions Movement with 6,000+ leaders participating globally. His Working Genius masterclass at ASBA 2025 achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating, ranking among the highest rated sessions. Jonno also delivers workshops on DISC (Behaviors That Bond) and CliftonStrengths (StrengthsFinder Amplified).

Website: consultclarity.org

Specialty: Working Genius facilitation, keynote speaking, executive team offsites, leadership development

Best for: Schools, corporates, and nonprofits seeking leadership development, team alignment, dynamic keynotes, or MC services


12. Anthony Muhammad, United States and Netherlands


CEO of New Frontier 21 Consulting and Associate Professor at Academica University in Amsterdam. Former teacher and principal who has authored multiple bestselling books on school culture and PLC at Work. His practical frameworks have transformed schools across multiple continents.

Website: newfrontier21.com

Specialty: School culture transformation, Professional Learning Communities

Best for: Schools implementing PLCs, culture change initiatives


13. Baruti Kafele, New Jersey, United States


Award winning former principal who transformed Newark Tech into a nationally recognized school. Recipient of the Milken National Educator Award and author of eight bestselling books including multiple ASCD publications. A passionate advocate for urban education and educational equity.

Website: barutikafele.com

Specialty: Urban school leadership, principal effectiveness, equity

Best for: Urban districts, schools serving underrepresented communities


14. Jimmy Casas, United States


Former award winning principal and author of Culturize. Founder of ConnectEDD publishing and J Casas & Associates leadership coaching practice. His work focuses on building positive school cultures through relational leadership and staff empowerment.

Website: jcasas.com

Specialty: School culture, leadership coaching, staff empowerment

Best for: Principals seeking culture transformation, leadership team development


15. Todd Whitaker, United States


Author of over 60 books on teacher and principal effectiveness. Former teacher, coach, and principal who now serves as a professor helping develop future leaders. His practical wisdom on staff motivation resonates with educators at every level.

Website: toddwhitaker.com

Specialty: Teacher effectiveness, principal leadership, staff motivation

Best for: School leaders at all levels, teacher professional development


16. Mike Mattos, United States


Co creator of the RTI at Work model and former principal of award winning schools. His systematic approaches to intervention and Professional Learning Communities have been implemented in thousands of schools. Known for practical, implementable frameworks.

Website: mike-mattos.com

Specialty: RTI at Work, PLC implementation, intervention systems

Best for: Schools building systematic intervention programs


17. Steve Bollar (Stand Tall Steve), United States


Former superintendent known for energizing school culture and climate. Creator of recognition programs that transform staff morale and student engagement. His Stand Tall Leadership approach combines practical strategies with infectious enthusiasm.

Website: standtallsteve.com

Specialty: School culture, staff morale, student recognition programs

Best for: Schools seeking energetic culture transformation


18. Rick Jetter, United States


Former superintendent and policy fellow with expertise in school culture reform. His narrative theory research models provide frameworks for transforming school communities through strategic storytelling and shared purpose.

Website: Website not publicly listed

Specialty: School reform, narrative leadership, culture transformation

Best for: Districts undertaking strategic reform initiatives


19. Tom Miller, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida


Charter school leadership specialist and executive coach who runs Leaders Building Leaders. His dissertation research on effective charter school characteristics informs his practical coaching approach. Helps emerging leaders develop their leadership skills through structured development programs.

Website: Website not publicly listed

Specialty: Charter school leadership, executive coaching

Best for: Charter school leaders, emerging administrators


20. Adam Voigt, Australia


Dynamic keynote speaker focused on leadership, culture, and student engagement. His career rooted in education gives him credibility with school audiences seeking practical approaches to building thriving school cultures. Listed with Ovations Speaker Bureau.

Specialty: School culture, leadership, student engagement

Best for: Australian schools seeking local expertise on culture


Overwhelmed by choices? Jonno White helps leaders determine which speaker or facilitator best fits their context. As someone who has seen every version of school leadership challenges, Jonno can help clarify your needs before you commit. Contact jonno@consultclarity.org to start the conversation.


Educator Wellness and Mental Health Speakers


These speakers address the wellbeing of educators and students, providing frameworks for sustainable practice in demanding educational environments.


21. Tina H. Boogren, United States


Author of 180 Days of Self Care for Busy Educators and co director of Solution Tree Wellness Solutions. Former Colorado Teacher of the Year finalist with extensive certifications in health and wellness. Helps educators prioritize their wellbeing without sacrificing effectiveness.

Website: tinaboogren.com

Specialty: Educator wellness, self care strategies, coaching

Best for: Schools addressing teacher burnout and retention


22. Tom Hierck, Canada


Author of 25+ books including Creating Emotionally Safe Schools. Educator since 1983 who combines hope based messaging with real world strategies. His work on positive school cultures and trauma sensitive instruction addresses the intersection of emotional safety and academic achievement.

Website: tomhierck.com

Specialty: Emotionally safe schools, trauma sensitive instruction, positive behavior

Best for: Schools serving students with trauma histories


23. Tracy Dennis-Tiwary, New York, United States


Bestselling author of Future Tense, clinical psychologist, researcher, and digital health entrepreneur. Her work challenges conventional thinking about anxiety, reframing it as a potential source of productivity and creativity. Represented by The Lavin Agency.

Specialty: Anxiety reframing, mental health, positive psychology

Best for: Schools addressing student anxiety and mental health concerns


24. Jean Yates, Australia


Director of Education for Cybernetic Shield with over 30 years as a secondary school English teacher. Her work on digital responsibility and online safety addresses critical concerns for modern schools. Speaks on student wellbeing in relation to online trauma.

Specialty: Online safety, digital responsibility, student cyber wellbeing

Best for: Schools addressing online safety and digital citizenship


25. Luke Kennedy, Australia


Motivational speaker and bestselling author focused on mental health and resilience for young people. His story driven approach resonates with student audiences while providing teachers with frameworks for supporting student wellbeing. Works with schools and corporate audiences.

Website: lukekennedy.com.au

Specialty: Youth mental health, resilience, motivational speaking

Best for: Student assemblies, youth focused events


26. Dannielle Miller, Australia


Award winning thought leader on girls self esteem and body image. Named NSW Entrepreneur of the Year and recognized among Sydney Top 100 Influential People. Author of The Butterfly Effect and weekly Channel 9 Mornings contributor.

Specialty: Girls self esteem, body image, student welfare

Best for: Girls schools, student wellbeing programs


27. Brene Brown, Houston, United States


Research professor and globally recognized expert on vulnerability, courage, and shame. Her TED talks and bestselling books have influenced millions of educators worldwide. Featured on PBS, NPR, and CNN. Listed with Ovations Speaker Bureau for education events.

Website: brenebrown.com

Specialty: Vulnerability, courage, authentic leadership

Best for: Large conferences seeking transformational keynotes on culture


28. Aisling Smith, Australia


Award winning speaker on workplace neuroinclusion with lived experience as a mother of a neurodivergent child and late diagnosis of Autism and ADHD. Her research combines psychological and neuroscience perspectives to help schools support neurodivergent students and staff.

Specialty: Neuroinclusion, neurodiversity, inclusive leadership

Best for: Schools developing neurodiversity support programs


Addressing communication challenges in your school? Jonno White's book Step Up or Step Out (https://www.amazon.com/Step-Up-Out-Difficult-Employees/dp/B0CQGV9HMV) provides a framework for handling difficult conversations with staff. Email jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss how these principles apply to your leadership context.


Artificial Intelligence, Technology, and Future of Education Speakers


These speakers help educational institutions navigate technological transformation while keeping students and learning at the center.


29. Salman Khan, Mountain View, United States


Founder and CEO of Khan Academy and recognized by TIME and Forbes as among the most influential people in education. His vision for artificial intelligence in education emphasizes enhancement rather than replacement of human connection. Represented by The Lavin Agency.

Website: khanacademy.org

Specialty: EdTech, AI in education, global access to learning

Best for: Major conferences on the future of education and technology


30. Isabelle C. Hau, Stanford University, United States


Executive Director of Stanford Accelerator for Learning. Her work focuses on human centered AI tools, environments, and policies that accelerate learning while preserving essential human connection. Brings policy and practice perspectives to educational technology.

Specialty: Human centered AI, educational technology policy

Best for: Education policy discussions, Stanford University affiliated events


31. David Eagleman, Houston, United States


Neuroscientist, host of PBS The Brain, and scientific advisor for HBO Westworld. Host of the Inner Cosmos podcast. His work helps educators understand how to leverage the uniqueness of the human brain in an increasingly technological world.

Website: eagleman.com

Specialty: Neuroscience, brain plasticity, human potential

Best for: Large conferences seeking science based keynotes on human capability


32. Amanda Johnstone, Australia


AI technologist recognized as TIME Next Generation Leader and LinkedIn Top Voice in AI. Her work helps educational leaders understand artificial intelligence in practical terms. Clients include Google Cloud, Stanford University, and major education organizations.

Specialty: AI communication, digital transformation, modern leadership

Best for: Schools developing AI policies and digital strategies


33. Weston Kieschnick, United States


Blended learning expert who has partnered with Google, Apple, and HMH. Published in Education Week and other major outlets. His work focuses on practical educational technology implementation rather than theoretical possibilities.

Specialty: Blended learning, EdTech implementation

Best for: Schools implementing blended learning programs


34. Brad Weinstein, United States


Founder of TeacherGoals and author of Washington Post bestseller Hacking School Discipline and The AI Classroom. Former principal and curriculum director who brings practical experience to technology integration discussions.

Website: teachgoals.com

Specialty: AI in classrooms, school discipline, technology integration

Best for: Schools navigating AI policy and classroom technology


35. Elliott Masie, Saratoga Springs, New York


Pioneer in learning technology who first used the term eLearning. Leads a coalition of 75 organizations including Amazon and Zoom. Advisor to government agencies and corporations on learning strategy. Has presented to over 4 million professionals worldwide.

Website: masie.com

Specialty: Learning technology, AI for learning, enterprise learning strategy

Best for: Higher education, corporate learning departments


STEM Education and Engagement Specialists


These speakers specialize in making science, technology, engineering, and mathematics accessible and engaging for students and educators alike.


36. Steve Spangler, Denver, United States


America educator for STEM education with over 2,100 TV appearances and multiple Emmy awards. Named by TIME Magazine among most influential people. His 4 billion+ video views demonstrate his unique ability to make science accessible and exciting for students and teachers.

Website: stevespangler.com

Specialty: STEM education, science engagement, hands on learning

Best for: Schools seeking to energize science programs


37. Bill Nye, Los Angeles, United States


The Science Guy who has introduced generations to scientific thinking through his popular television programs and public advocacy. His accessible approach to complex topics makes him ideal for inspiring future leaders in STEM fields.

Website: billnye.com

Specialty: Science communication, STEM advocacy, critical thinking

Best for: Major STEM initiatives, science focused conferences


38. Scott Steinberg, New York, United States


Strategic futurist and innovation expert who helps education leaders prepare for technological change. His work bridges technology trends with practical educational applications, helping schools prepare students for future careers.

Specialty: Future trends, innovation, technology in education

Best for: Strategic planning sessions, future focused conferences


Need help identifying which speaker fits your conference theme? Jonno White regularly helps event organizers match speakers to audiences. As an experienced MC who has hosted over 230 podcast episodes, he understands what makes speakers resonate with different audiences. Email jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss your event needs.


Instructional Excellence and Academic Rigor Speakers

These speakers focus on the core business of schools, helping educators raise standards and improve instructional practice through proven methodologies.


39. Barbara Blackburn, North Carolina, United States


Author of 28 books on rigor and motivation in education. Creator of Rigor Checks assessment tools. Her practical frameworks help teachers maintain high expectations while providing appropriate support. Full time professional speaker and consultant on instructional excellence.

Specialty: Rigor, differentiation, instructional excellence

Best for: Schools focused on raising academic standards


40. Erik M. Francis, United States


Expert on Depth of Knowledge, cognitive rigor, and inquiry based learning. Author with Solution Tree and ASCD. Owner of Maverik Education with international experience in Singapore, Dubai, and beyond. Focuses on standards based grading and personalized learning.

Specialty: Depth of Knowledge, cognitive rigor, inquiry based learning

Best for: Schools implementing competency based education


41. Eric Jensen, San Diego, United States


Pioneer in brain based learning and applied cognitive science in education. Society for Neuroscience member who has produced 19 conferences and authored multiple books including Teaching with the Brain in Mind. Over 25 years helping schools apply neuroscience to instruction.

Website: jensenlearning.com

Specialty: Brain based learning, neuroscience in education

Best for: Schools seeking neuroscience backed instructional approaches


42. Bryan Goodwin, Denver, United States


CEO of McREL International, a Denver based nonprofit focused on research based school improvement. Writes a monthly research column and speaks throughout the United States, Canada, and Australia on translating research into best practices.

Website: mcrel.org

Specialty: Research based improvement, organizational effectiveness

Best for: Districts seeking research based improvement frameworks


43. Trevor Muir, Michigan, United States


Founder of The Epic Classroom community with significant social media following. His work on purposeful learning and project based learning helps educators create meaningful experiences that engage students in their own education.

Website: trevormuir.com

Specialty: Project based learning, purposeful education, student engagement

Best for: Schools implementing project based learning


Educational Equity and Social Justice Speakers


These speakers address issues of access, opportunity, and systemic change in education, helping leaders create more equitable institutions with equal opportunities for all.


44. Anthony Jack, Boston, United States


Author of The Privileged Poor and Class Dismissed. Boston University Associate Professor and Newbury Center Faculty Director. His research reveals how poverty and inequality shape access and persistence in higher education, offering practical insights for creating more equitable institutions.

Specialty: Educational equity, access, social mobility

Best for: Higher education, schools serving first generation students


45. Adam Harris, Washington DC, United States


Author of The State Must Provide and staff writer at The Atlantic. His work examines how higher education must confront its history of racial injustice to create truly equitable futures. Brings journalism and research perspectives to conversations about educational equity.

Specialty: Racial equity in higher education, systemic reform

Best for: Universities, conferences on educational equity


46. Casey Conway, Australia


Former NRL Sydney Roosters player who now speaks on Indigenous affairs, diversity, and sport. His unique perspective helps schools address inclusion and reconciliation through engaging storytelling. Listed with Ovations Speaker Bureau.

Specialty: Indigenous affairs, diversity, reconciliation

Best for: Australian schools, reconciliation and diversity events


47. Donna M. Velliaris, Australia


Expert on human ecology, cultural systems, Third Culture Kids, and pathway pedagogy. Multiple graduate credentials with a bachelor's degree and PhD in Education. Over 40 book chapters published on transnational students and diversity topics.

Website: Website not publicly listed

Specialty: Transnational students, cultural diversity, pathway pedagogy

Best for: International schools, diverse student populations


Collaboration and Team Development Speakers


These speakers help educational leaders build effective teams and collaborative cultures that sustain improvement over time.


48. Bonita Thompson, United States


Named Thinkers50 World Number 1 Collaboration Coach. Developed collaborative leadership construct at UPenn and Harvard Kennedy School. Adjunct faculty at Harvard McLean Institute of Coaching with expansive industry experience at Bank of America, Genentech, and World Bank.

Website: Website not publicly listed

Specialty: Collaborative leadership, team development, executive coaching

Best for: Executive teams, leadership development programs


49. Brad Johnson, United States


Author of multiple books including Dear Teacher and Building Dynamic Teamwork in Schools. Over 30 years experience as teacher, administrator, and university professor. His work on relational intelligence helps leaders build people first cultures.

Website: Website not publicly listed

Specialty: Relational leadership, team building, people first culture

Best for: Schools seeking to improve staff relationships


50. Andrew Grant, Australia


Keynote speaker and facilitator with cross cultural delivery experience across 14 countries and 30 nationalities. His work helps educational teams bridge differences and build shared purpose. Listed with Ovations Speaker Bureau.

Specialty: Cross cultural leadership, team facilitation, creative thinking

Best for: International schools, diverse leadership teams


Book Jonno White for your next leadership team offsite. As a Certified Working Genius Facilitator, Jonno helps teams understand their unique strengths and how they can collaborate more effectively. His ASBA 2025 masterclass achieved a 93.75% satisfaction rating. Contact jonno@consultclarity.org to explore working together.


Higher Education and University Speakers


These speakers bring perspectives relevant to colleges, universities, and post secondary education leaders.


51. Paul Tough, New York, United States


New York Times bestselling author of How Children Succeed and The Inequality Machine. His work on attention, focus, and distraction provides fresh insights for educators at all levels. Updates conventional thinking about what drives student achievement.

Website: paultough.com

Specialty: Student success factors, attention, character development

Best for: Universities, student success initiatives


52. Lauren Eskreis-Winkler, Chicago, United States


Assistant Professor at Kellogg School of Management and Poets and Quants 40 Under 40 MBA Professor. Her research on failing well and learning from setbacks helps educational leaders build resilience cultures. Represented by The Lavin Agency.

Specialty: Resilience, learning from failure, mastery mindset

Best for: Business schools, leadership development programs


53. Sean Covey, United States


Author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens and executive at FranklinCovey Education. His work translating the Covey principles for young audiences has influenced millions of students. Provides frameworks for building student leadership and personal responsibility.

Specialty: Student leadership, 7 Habits, personal growth

Best for: Schools implementing Leader in Me programs


54. Stephen M. R. Covey, United States


Bestselling author of The Speed of Trust. His frameworks on trust building help educational leaders create high performing teams. Available through FranklinCovey Education for school and district events.

Website: speedoftrust.com

Specialty: Trust building, leadership credibility, organizational culture

Best for: Leadership teams seeking to build trust cultures


55. George Couros, Canada


Author of The Innovators Mindset and thought leader on innovative teaching methods. His work helps educators move beyond compliance toward creativity and innovation in their practice. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: georgecouros.ca

Specialty: Innovation in education, creative leadership, growth mindset

Best for: Schools seeking to foster innovation culture


56. Erin Gruwell, California, United States


Founder of the Freedom Writers Foundation and inspiration for the film Freedom Writers. Her work with at risk students in Long Beach demonstrates the power of deep connection and high expectations. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Specialty: At risk students, literacy, transformational teaching

Best for: Schools serving diverse and challenged student populations


57. Jon Gordon, Florida, United States


Bestselling author of The Energy Bus and The Power of Positive Leadership. His frameworks on positive leadership have been adopted by schools, sports teams, and corporations worldwide. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: jongordon.com

Specialty: Positive leadership, culture building, team energy

Best for: Schools seeking energizing cultural transformation


58. Susan Cain, New York, United States


Author of the bestseller Quiet The Power of Introverts. Her research helps educators create environments where introverted students and staff can thrive. Listed with Executive Speakers Bureau for education events.

Website: susancain.net

Specialty: Introversion, quiet leadership, inclusive environments

Best for: Schools seeking to support diverse personality types


59. Michele Borba, California, United States


Educational psychologist and bestselling author of Thrivers and UnSelfie. Her research on raising empathetic children provides practical frameworks for schools and social-emotional learning programs. Available through Executive Speakers Bureau.

Website: micheleborba.com

Specialty: Social-emotional learning, empathy, character development

Best for: Elementary and middle school initiatives on character


60. Arthur Brooks, Massachusetts, United States


Harvard professor and author of From Strength to Strength. His work on leadership, happiness, and finding meaning in work resonates with educators facing burnout and seeking purpose. Available through Executive Speakers Bureau.

Website: arthurbrooks.com

Specialty: Purpose, happiness, leadership meaning

Best for: Senior leaders seeking renewal and purpose


Looking for an MC for your educational conference? Jonno White brings global experience moderating panels and keeping audiences engaged. With over 200 hours interviewing top leaders including Guy Kawasaki, he asks impactful questions that draw out meaningful insights. Email jonno@consultclarity.org to discuss MC services for your event.


Motivational Education Speakers and Inspirational Voices


These speakers deliver energy, inspiration, and emotional resonance that reinvigorates educators and reminds them why they chose this profession.


61. Adolph Brown, Virginia, United States


Award winning motivational speaker and former professor who overcame childhood challenges to become an education leader. His story of hard work and perseverance inspires educators and students alike. Available through Executive Speakers Bureau.

Website: dradolphbrown.com

Specialty: Motivation, overcoming adversity, cultural competence

Best for: Schools seeking high energy motivation


62. Derek Clark, California, United States


Foster care survivor turned motivational speaker. His lived experience navigating the child welfare system provides unique perspective for educators working with students in foster care and trauma backgrounds. Available through Executive Speakers Bureau.

Website: iamderekclark.com

Specialty: Foster care, trauma, resilience

Best for: Schools serving vulnerable populations


63. Devon Harris, Jamaica and United States


Member of the original Jamaican bobsled team featured in Cool Runnings. His story of pursuing impossible dreams against all odds provides powerful motivation for schools. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: devonharris.com

Specialty: Perseverance, goal setting, team achievement

Best for: Student assemblies, motivation focused events


64. Jose Hernandez, California, United States


NASA astronaut and author who traveled from migrant farm worker to space. His story epitomizes the American dream and the power of education to transform lives. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: astrojose.com

Specialty: STEM careers, perseverance, reaching for dreams

Best for: Student assemblies, STEM focused schools


65. Adam Braun, New York, United States


Founder of Pencils of Promise and bestselling author of The Promise of a Pencil. His work building schools in developing countries demonstrates the global impact of quality education. Available through Executive Speakers Bureau.

Specialty: Global education, entrepreneurship, social impact

Best for: Schools with global citizenship focus


66. Eduardo Briceno, United States


Growth mindset expert whose TED talks have been viewed millions of times. His work on how to improve at things that matter provides practical frameworks for lifelong learning. Available through Executive Speakers Bureau.

Website: eduardobriceno.com

Specialty: Growth mindset, continuous improvement, learning zones

Best for: Schools implementing growth mindset culture


67. Ben Nemtin, Canada


Co founder of The Buried Life and bestselling author of What Do You Want to Do Before You Die. His work on goal setting and bucket list thinking inspires students to dream bigger. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: bennemtin.com

Specialty: Goal setting, motivation, dream achievement

Best for: Student focused motivational events


68. Dale Beaumont, Australia


Award winning entrepreneur who built three million dollar companies before age 30. His work on entrepreneurship and technology in education inspires young people to create rather than just consume. Listed with Ovations Speaker Bureau.

Website: dalebeaumont.com

Specialty: Entrepreneurship, technology, youth achievement

Best for: Schools fostering entrepreneurial mindset


69. Dan Gregory, Australia


Expert on human behavior and engagement who helps educators understand what motivates students. His work as a behavioral strategist provides frameworks for increasing engagement. Listed with Ovations Speaker Bureau.

Website: dangregory.com.au

Specialty: Behavior, engagement, motivation psychology

Best for: Schools seeking behavioral science approaches


70. Angie Wilcock, Australia


Expert on transitions in education and middle years adolescents. Her work helps schools support students through critical developmental transitions, particularly the move to secondary school. Listed with Ovations Speaker Bureau.

Specialty: Adolescent transitions, middle school, student development

Best for: Middle schools, transition program development


Full Service Speakers Bureau and Talent Agency Options


These organizations serve as full service speakers bureau options, handling logistics and contracting for educational events. They offer exceptional customer support and can provide fee ranges for various speakers to match the interests of event professionals.


71. The Lavin Agency, Toronto, Canada


Premier speakers agency representing education experts, researchers, and thought leaders. Their curated shortlist approach provides 2 to 5 recommendations matched to your needs. Education speaker fees range from $10,000 to $50,000+ depending on profile.

Website: thelavinagency.com

Specialty: High profile authors, researchers, thought leaders

Best for: Major conferences seeking premium speakers


72. Ovations Speaker Bureau, Australia


Australian based speakers bureau with broad roster covering education, leadership, and motivation. Their searchable directory allows filtering by fee range and travel origin. Strong for Australian and international visiting speakers.

Website: ovations.com.au

Specialty: Australian speakers, diverse categories

Best for: Australian schools seeking local and international options


73. Executive Speakers Bureau, United States


Full service speakers bureau with extensive education category. Their interests of event professionals approach matches speakers to specific audience needs. Provides logistics support and contract handling.

Specialty: Executive education, corporate learning, conferences

Best for: Large conferences with significant speaker budgets


74. Collaborative Agency Group, United States


Global speakers bureau with strong education roster including passionate educators and community leaders. Their approach focuses on matching speaker expertise to specific event outcomes and audience needs.

Specialty: Education speakers, motivational voices, diversity

Best for: Schools seeking diverse speaker options


75. FranklinCovey Education, United States


Educational arm of FranklinCovey providing speakers on 7 Habits, Leader in Me, and trust building frameworks. Their speakers come with implementation support through established educational programs.

Specialty: 7 Habits, Leader in Me, trust frameworks

Best for: Schools implementing FranklinCovey programs


Additional Education Experts and Emerging Voices


These speakers and experts round out our comprehensive directory, offering specialized expertise and fresh insights on educational leadership.


76. Chris Emdin, New York, United States


Author of For White Folks Who Teach in the Hood and professor at Columbia Teachers College. His work on culturally relevant pedagogy and hip hop education provides innovative solutions for engaging diverse students. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: chrisemdin.com

Specialty: Urban education, culturally relevant pedagogy

Best for: Urban schools, diverse student populations


77. Tony Wagner, Massachusetts, United States


Senior Research Fellow at the Learning Policy Institute and author of Creating Innovators. His work on 21st century skills and education reform has influenced policy makers and school leaders worldwide.

Website: tonywagner.com

Specialty: 21st century skills, innovation, education reform

Best for: Strategic planning, future focused conferences


78. Alan November, Massachusetts, United States


Pioneer in educational technology integration and founder of November Learning. His work helps schools rethink how technology can transform student voice and ownership of learning.

Specialty: Educational technology, student voice, digital citizenship

Best for: Schools transforming technology integration


79. Jon Bergmann, United States


Pioneer of the Flipped Learning movement and co author of Flip Your Classroom. His innovative teaching methods have been adopted by schools in over 100 countries. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: jonbergmann.com

Specialty: Flipped learning, innovative instruction

Best for: Schools implementing flipped learning


80. Ian Jukes, Canada


Director of the InfoSavvy Group and expert on preparing students for a digital future. His work helps educators understand how technology changes learning and what this means for instruction.

Website: jukesgroup.com

Specialty: Digital literacy, future ready skills

Best for: Schools developing digital literacy programs


81. Muriel Summers, United States


Former principal who transformed A.B. Combs Elementary into the model for Leader in Me. Her practical experience implementing the 7 Habits with students provides real school examples. Available through FranklinCovey Education.

Specialty: Leader in Me implementation, student leadership

Best for: Schools launching Leader in Me programs


82. Gerry Brooks, Kentucky, United States


Principal and social media sensation known for his humorous videos about education. His approach to school leadership combines humor with practical wisdom. Available through Executive Speakers Bureau.

Website: gerrybrooks.com

Specialty: Principal leadership, school humor, morale

Best for: Principal conferences, staff morale events


83. Ben Glenn, United States


Learning specialist and motivational speaker who overcame learning differences to become successful. His personal story combined with practical strategies helps schools support struggling learners. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: benglenn.com

Specialty: Learning differences, student motivation, resilience

Best for: Schools supporting diverse learners


84. Danny Brassell, California, United States


America leading reading ambassador and author known for high energy presentations. His work on creating reading cultures has transformed classrooms. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: dannybrassell.com

Specialty: Reading engagement, literacy culture

Best for: Schools building reading cultures


85. Dale Henry, Tennessee, United States


Former educator and business leader who brings humor and practicality to leadership discussions. His country wisdom approach resonates with school leaders seeking authentic connection. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: dalehenry.com

Specialty: Leadership, humor, practical wisdom

Best for: Leadership retreats, morale building events


86. Alan Blankstein, Indiana, United States


Founder of the HOPE Foundation and author of Failure Is Not an Option. His work on creating high performing schools that serve all students has influenced districts nationwide. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: hopefoundation.org

Specialty: School improvement, equity, failure prevention

Best for: Districts focused on closing achievement gaps


87. Beverly Daniel Tatum, Massachusetts, United States


Author of Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria and former president of Spelman College. Her work on racial identity and education provides frameworks for addressing difficult conversations in schools.

Specialty: Racial identity, diversity, inclusion

Best for: Schools addressing equity and inclusion


88. Freeman Hrabowski, Maryland, United States


President Emeritus of University of Maryland Baltimore County and nationally recognized leader in student achievement. Named one of TIME 100 Most Influential People. His work on STEM education for underrepresented students has produced remarkable results.

Website: umbc.edu

Specialty: STEM access, minority achievement, higher education leadership

Best for: Universities, STEM diversity initiatives


89. Steve Wozniak, California, United States


Co founder of Apple and social activist advocate for technology in education. His unique perspective on innovation, creativity, and the future of technology inspires schools to think differently. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: woz.org

Specialty: Innovation, technology, creativity

Best for: Major technology and innovation focused conferences


90. Ron Clark, Atlanta, United States


Founder of the Ron Clark Academy and Disney's American Teacher of the Year. His innovative teaching methods and school model have been visited by passionate educators from around the world. The Ron Clark Academy demonstrates best practices in student engagement.

Specialty: Student engagement, innovative teaching methods, school culture

Best for: Schools seeking transformational culture change


Planning your school year with quality education speakers in mind? Jonno White helps educational institutions identify the right speaker for their context. Whether you need a keynote for your next event or a facilitator for deep connection work with your leadership team, reach out to jonno@consultclarity.org to start planning.


91. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Nigeria and United States


Award winning novelist and TED speaker whose talk The Danger of a Single Story has been viewed millions of times. Her work challenges educators to consider multiple perspectives and diverse narratives. Available through Executive Speakers Bureau.

Website: chimamanda.com

Specialty: Narrative diversity, global perspectives

Best for: Major conferences on diversity and global citizenship


92. Alexandra Robbins, Washington DC, United States


New York Times bestselling author investigating education issues including The Overachievers and Pledged. Her investigative journalism provides fresh insights into student experiences and pressures.

Specialty: Student stress, achievement pressure, school culture

Best for: Schools addressing student wellness and pressure


93. Amy Blankson, United States


Positive technology expert and co founder of the Digital Wellness Institute. Her work on using technology to boost wellbeing rather than deplete it provides practical insights for schools navigating digital challenges.

Website: amyblankson.com

Specialty: Digital wellness, positive technology, wellbeing

Best for: Schools developing healthy technology practices


94. Anindya Kundu, New York, United States


Sociologist and author of The Power of Student Agency. His research on how students develop agency and overcome obstacles provides frameworks for schools seeking to empower learners.

Website: anindyakundu.com

Specialty: Student agency, resilience, opportunity gaps

Best for: Schools empowering student voice and agency


95. Cassandra Worthy, United States


Change expert and author of Change Enthusiasm. Her framework for embracing rather than resisting change helps educational leaders navigate constant reform. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Specialty: Change leadership, transformation, resilience

Best for: Schools undergoing major change initiatives


96. Bertice Berry, Georgia, United States


Sociologist, author, and sought after speaker whose doctorate focused on educational sociology. Her blend of humor and wisdom has made her a sought after speaker for education conferences. Available through Collaborative Agency Group.

Website: berticeberry.com

Specialty: Education sociology, humor, resilience

Best for: Conferences seeking engaging, humorous keynotes


97. Jaz Ampaw-Farr, United Kingdom


International speaker and National Teacher Hall of Fame inductee who overcame childhood trauma to become an educator. Her story demonstrates the transformational power of education in a young person life.

Website: jazampawfarr.com

Specialty: Teacher impact, resilience, transformational education

Best for: Teacher conferences, staff wellbeing events


98. Alex Sheen, United States


Founder of Because I Said I Would, a social movement dedicated to the betterment of humanity through promises kept. His work on commitment and accountability resonates with schools building character cultures.

Specialty: Character, commitment, accountability

Best for: Schools developing character education programs


99. John Wood, United States


Founder of Room to Read and author of Leaving Microsoft to Change the World. His story of leaving corporate success to build a global education nonprofit inspires educators to think about equal opportunities for all children.

Website: roomtoread.org

Specialty: Global literacy, social entrepreneurship, purpose

Best for: Schools with global citizenship focus


100. Ashley Rhodes-Courter, Florida, United States


Bestselling author of Three Little Words who spent years in foster care before being adopted. Her advocacy for child welfare and education reform provides powerful perspective for educators working with vulnerable students.

Specialty: Foster care, child advocacy, resilience

Best for: Schools serving foster care and vulnerable populations


How to Use This Directory of Educational Leadership Speakers


This directory represents the most comprehensive collection of educational leadership speakers available. From globally recognized researchers like John Hattie to practitioner leaders like those featured from the Ron Clark Academy, these 100 speakers and organizations offer fresh insights and actionable strategies for every educational context.


When selecting the right speaker for your professional development session, consider your specific needs. Are you seeking inspiration and personal growth for teachers facing burnout? Look to the wellness and mental health speakers. Need to improve instructional practice through critical thinking frameworks? The research based speakers provide evidence for best practices. Want to build leadership skills in your future leaders? The practitioner speakers offer practical insights from their own hard work transforming schools.


Remember that fee ranges vary significantly across this market. The Lavin Agency represents education speakers from $10,000 to over $50,000. Independent speakers and those with less media presence often provide exceptional value at lower investment levels. A business leader approach to speaker selection considers return on investment, not just initial cost.


For topics involving difficult conversations, managing underperformance, or conflict management, Jonno White's Step Up or Step Out (https://www.amazon.com/Step-Up-Out-Difficult-Employees/dp/B0CQGV9HMV) provides a proven framework with bestselling books status and over 10,000 copies sold globally. When communication excellence matters, this resource delivers real world strategies that work.


If you are planning a conference and need an experienced MC, Jonno White brings unique ability as a moderator who has conducted over 230 podcast interviews with community leaders and business leader executives. His skill at asking impactful questions ensures panels deliver meaningful content.


Ready to book an educational leadership speaker for your next event? Whether you want help navigating this directory, need a trusted first conversation about your specific needs, or want to book Jonno White directly for a keynote, workshop, Working Genius session, or MC engagement, reach out to jonno@consultclarity.org. As a professional speaker who works globally with schools, corporates, and nonprofits, Jonno often serves as the starting point for leaders planning events, even when clients later choose a different specialist. Contact Jonno White today to discuss your upcoming event.

 
 
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