Agenda
At Pencils Down 2025, every moment is about our shared mission. Some moments are meant to inspire while others will ask you to reflect. That’s because we believe Pencils Down isn’t just about hosting a conference for the sake of meeting. It’s a chance for all of us to connect, embody our values, and realize how our work has a great effect on the lives of the students and communities we serve.
All times are Eastern Time.
Thursday, February 6
9 AM–12 PM | College Board Cares for Philly (Optional)
Give back to the local community. We’re partnering with Cradles to Crayons to make an impact on Philly students and schools. Indicate your interest during registration.
12:30–1:30 PM | Pencils Down Orientation
Welcome to the official start of Pencils Down 2025. Drop by the check-in desk, drop off your bag, and drop the day-to-day. Use this time to get face-to-face with your teammates, colleagues, and work friends. Lunch will be provided.
2–3:30 PM | General Assembly
Join your 1,700 colleagues in reflecting, reconnecting, and getting reenergized around our impact on education and mission to serve students.
3:30–5:30 PM | Electives
Now’s your chance to make Pencils Down your own. Take some time to learn something new, freshen up, or reconnect with colleagues.
5:30–7 PM | Recess
Take a well-deserved break. Check out your room. Check out the neighborhood. Whatever you do, just don’t check your email.
7−10 PM | Off-Site Evening Reception
Hop on the party train. Come on board to celebrate our collective impact. Dinner, drinks, and desserts will be served at every turn. And if you're feeling adventurous, it's full steam ahead to the dance floor.
8:30–10:30 PM | After-ish Parties (Optional)
Celebrate small. In case you prefer to be away from the big crowd, we’ll host a variety of alternative, intimate, and chill hangs.
Friday, February 7
7:30–8:30 AM | Morning Wellness Experiences (Optional)
Let’s get physical. Or mindful. Treat yourself to one of our self-care experiences and start your day refreshed.
8:30–9:30 AM | Grab and Go Breakfast
Fill up on food. Fuel up on caffeine. We need to be ready to start our second day.
9:30–11 AM | General Assembly
We’ll gather for another epic day of Pencils Down.
11:15 AM–12:15 PM | Electives
We’ll break out one more time.
12:30–1 PM | Commencement
Join us for final thoughts and the conclusion of Pencils Down 2025.
1 PM | Goodbyes and Departures
Cue "(I’ve Had) the Time of My Life" or “Closing Time”. Get back into the world ready to own the cause and affect you have on students through the work you do.