The CAIS Student Diversity Leadership Conference 2026
Sponsored by The Commission on Diversity in Independent Schools

DATE: Sunday, April 12, 2026
TIME: 9:00AM - 3:45PM (Lunch provided)
LOCATION: Hopkins School (986 Forest Road,  New Haven, CT)
FOR: Students (grades 7-12) and educators across all divisions
REGISTER TODAY!

About the Conference: Founded in 2003 by the CAIS Commission on Diversity in Independent Schools, this conference was inspired by events in other regions (such as Across Colors in Southern California) and modeled after the national conference held annually by NAIS. The mission of the event is to bring students from grades 7-12 and adults from a diversity of independent schools across the state together for a day of networking and dialogue, facilitating cross-cultural understanding and a call to action to improve our school communities and our world.

STUDENT SESSIONS: All sessions will be facilitated by educators who are experienced co-facilitators.

• 7th & 8th - Language & Words Matter
• 9th - Stereotypes, Prejudice and Discrimination Unpacked
• 10th - Who am I? Who are You? Who are We?
• 11th - Our Socialization: How do we learn what we learn?
• 12th - Moving from Allyship to Co-Conspirators

SESSION FOR EDUCATORS:
Title of Workshop: Navigating Issues of Perception, Power, and Lived Experiences in Independent Schools
This interactive session will be facilitated by Jason Craige Harris. There will time set aside to support application of what participants learn in the session.

Jason Craige Harris

Jason is an educator, speaker, facilitator, and leadership advisor who partners with K–12 schools to cultivate cultures of dignity, belonging, and transformation. A former classroom teacher and senior administrator, as well as a trusted coach to school leaders, Jason supports educators, administrators, students, and families in building trust, navigating conflict, and leading with purpose and care. Drawing on insights from ethics, psychology, and systems thinking, Jason helps school communities foster inclusive environments where all students and adults can thrive. He is a recognized expert in restorative practices and pedagogy, ethical leadership, and dialogue across lines of difference—and a sought-after speaker known for his powerful storytelling, deep empathy, and practical wisdom. Whether he is leading professional development for faculty, facilitating hard conversations among students, or advising senior leadership teams, Jason equips communities with the tools to prevent harm, repair breakdowns, and sustain a culture rooted in respect and shared purpose. 

Sponsored in part by FLIK Independent School Dining