About Learning Forward

Learning Forward is the only association devoted to improving student results through advocacy and support for high-quality professional learning. Our readers and website visitors are education leaders – superintendents, central office leaders, principals, instructional coaches, and state and regional leaders.

More than 70,000 readers come to our publications and website to find the answers they need to solve learning challenges for both staff and students.

We know these leaders. They’re our members.

You need to connect with leaders at the state, district, and school level who make decisions about school improvement and professional learning.

Not all members educate in specific subject areas, but of those that do, the top 20 (based on job titles) are:

Mathematics – Incl. algebra, calculus, geometry, statistics, and general math
English/Language Arts – Literature, writing, reading, composition
Science – General science, biology, chemistry, physics
Social Studies/History – World history, American history, government, civics
Special Education – Various subjects adapted for students with special needs
Elementary Education – Multiple subjects for younger grades
Physical Education/Health – Fitness, sports, health education
Art – Visual arts, drawing, painting, crafts
Music – Band, choir, general music, instrumental music
Foreign Languages – Spanish, French, German, and other world languages

Career and Technical Education (CTE) – Vocational and trade skills
Computer Science/Technology – Programming, digital literacy, computer apps
Business Education – Economics, business principles, entrepreneurship
Family and Consumer Sciences – Life skills, nutrition, family studies
Drama/Theater Arts – Acting, theater production, performance arts
Reading Specialist – Literacy intervention and support
ESL/ELL – English as a Second Language instruction
Agriculture Education – Farming, animal science, agricultural technology
Industrial Arts/Shop – Woodworking, metalworking, technical skills
Library/Media – Information literacy, research skills, media center management

    The Learning Professional is THE publication for those who make their institutions’ professional development buying decisions and is an important part of their decision-making process.

    Learning Forward’s flagship publication, The Learning Professional, is the authority on professional learning for educators, and includes the most trusted and current information available on high-quality professional learning. The Learning Professional reaches more than 16,000 principals, superintendents, teachers, coaches, curriculum and instruction administrators, human resource professionals, and state and regional leaders in school improvement planning.

    All display ads placed in The Learning Professional are included in the digital editions, which are posted in the archive for members to access any time. Each digital edition averages about 660 views from the archive!

    The Learning Professional, Connect, and our annual conference program aren’t just publications. They are tools that Learning Forward members actively use to make decisions. Our vision is Equity and excellence in teaching and learning. Let our readers know that you share this vision.

    99%

    of our readers say that The Learning Professional is helpful for their work.

    93%

    of readers share articles from The Learning Professional with their colleagues.

    Editorial Calendar

    Dates and themes subject to change

    IssueEditorial highlightsAD CloseArt dueApprox. in home
    February 2026AI in professional learning

    Artificial intelligence is transforming how educators learn, collaborate, and refine their practice. This issue dives into the evolving role of AI in professional learning — from coaching and data-informed feedback to online courses and professional learning communities. Readers will gain insight into both the opportunities and challenges of AI integration, with articles exploring practical applications, research, and real-world experiences from the field.

    As schools and systems experiment with AI-driven tools, this topic will spark high reader interest among education leaders seeking guidance, frameworks, and models for effective, ethical use.
    Dec. 1, 2025Dec. 15, 2025February 2-6, 2026
    April 2026The science of learning

    Breakthroughs in neuroscience and cognitive psychology continue to reveal how people learn most effectively — and educators are eager to apply these insights to their own professional growth. This issue explores how schools and systems are aligning professional learning with the science of learning, from reducing cognitive load and chunking information to modeling evidence-based instructional strategies educators can take directly into their classrooms.

    Readers will be drawn to stories that connect research to real-world practice, highlighting how districts are designing learning experiences grounded in proven science and moving beyond outdated theories. For education leaders and professional learning designers, this topic offers both inspiration and practical guidance for creating professional learning that truly sticks.
    Jan. 1, 2026Jan. 15, 2026April 6-10, 2026
    June 2026Coaching for all

    Effective coaching is one of the most powerful ways to improve teaching, leadership, and learning outcomes across a school system. This issue delves into how coaching can elevate educators at every level — from teachers and principals to district leaders and even coaches themselves.

    Readers will find insights into emerging research, proven coaching models, and system-wide strategies that differentiate support by role. Real-world examples and practical tools will illustrate how schools are building coaching cultures that strengthen collaboration, reflection, and continuous improvement.

    With growing recognition that everyone benefits from coaching, this theme will resonate with education professionals looking to refine their practice and build stronger, more supportive learning environments.
    Feb. 15, 2026Mar. 1, 2026June 1-5, 2026
    August 2026Teacher voice

    Empowering teachers as leaders and decision-makers is essential to advancing meaningful professional learning — and ultimately, student success. This issue explores how schools and systems are elevating teacher voice by creating professional learning experiences that balance organizational goals with educators’ autonomy, expertise, and choice.

    Readers will be drawn to examples of teacher-led initiatives, structures that support authentic input, and strategies for fostering agency and leadership in every classroom. With perspectives from teachers, facilitators, and school leaders, this theme will resonate with those seeking to build cultures of trust, shared ownership, and professional growth.
    Apr. 15, 2026May 1, 2026August 3-7, 2026
    October 2026Differentiating learning

    Meeting the needs of every learner is one of education’s greatest challenges — and professional learning is key to helping teachers do it well. This issue examines how schools and systems are building educators’ skills to differentiate instruction for students with diverse learning profiles, language abilities, and academic levels.

    Readers will gain insight into practical strategies and models — from coaching and learning walks to designing professional learning that itself reflects the principles of differentiation. This timely theme will draw educators and leaders seeking to ensure that rigorous, high-quality instruction is accessible and responsive to every student.
    Jun. 15, 2026Jul. 1, 2026October 5-9, 2026
    December 2026To be determined

    Bonus Distribution: Learning Forward Annual Meeting (500 copies).
    Aug. 15, 2026Sep. 1, 2026November 29-December 4, 2026

    The Learning Professional Magazine Rates

    position1-3x4x
    save 10%
    5x
    save 15%
    6X
    Save 20%
    2-Page Spread$4,013$3,612$3,411$3,210
    Full Page$2,112$1,901$1,795$1,690
    2/3 Page Horizontal or Vertical$1,668$1,501$1,418$1,334
    1/2 Page Horizontal$1,541$1,387$1,310$1,233

    Cover Placements

    1-3x4x
    save 10%
    5x
    save 15%
    6X
    save 20%
    Outside back cover$3,176$2,858$2,700$2,541
    Inside front or Inside back cover$2,430$2,187$2,065$1,944
    1-3x4x
    save 10%
    5x
    save 15%
    6X
    save 20%
    Advertorial or C-Suite Interview$2,900$2,610$2,465$2,320

    The Learning Professional Specs

    Ad Specifications

    Ad SizeWidthHeight
    Full Page (With Bleed)8.889″11.386″
    Full Page (No Bleed)7.373″9.875″
    Outside Back Cover (With Bleed)8.889″8.586″
    1/2 Page Horizontal (No Bleed)7.373″4.625″
    1/2 Page Vertical (No Bleed)5.012″9.875″
    2/3 Page Horizontal (No Bleed)7.373″4.625″
    2/3 Page Vertical (No Bleed)5.012″9.875″
    SPECIAL ADSSPECS
    1-Page Advertorial or C-Suite Q&ABleed: 8.889″ x 11.386″
    Trim: 8.375″ x 10.875″

    – 500-525 words
    – 1 image (photo or graphic)
    – Your company logo
    – Byline and author biography (no more than 35 words)
    2-Page Advertorial or C-Suite Q&ABleed: 17.25″ x 11.386″
    Trim: 16.76″ x 10.875″

    – 900-1,000 words
    – 1 image (photo or graphic)
    – Your company logo
    – Byline and author biography (no more than 35 words)

    Paper: High-quality matte finish
    Trim: 8.375″ x 10.875″
    Live area: 7.375″ x 9.875″ (no type or logos outside this area)
    Binding: Saddle-stitched
    Press: Sheet-fed cover, web-offset text
    Materials: Press-ready PDF files should be 300 dpi and CMYK
    Reminder: Export your artwork files with bleed and no crop marks

    Connect Newsletter

    Monthly

    Frequency

    89,000

    Circulation

    20%

    OPEN RATE

    Learning Forward’s digital newsletter, Connect, is delivered to all Learning Forward members each month. Connect seeks to:

    • Explore the challenges and rewards that teacher leaders, coaches, mentors, instructional specialists, lead teachers, and master teachers face.
    • Focus on the context that makes effective professional learning possible across an entire system of schools.
    • Strengthen leadership practices and leading learning among all members of the school community.
    PositionDimensions1x3X+
    Sponsored Content25 character title
    100 character body copy
    15 character call to action
    URL to link call to action
    $1,350$1,150
    Banner Ad600 x 250px + click through URL
    $1,260$1,050

    Sponsored Content Emails

    This limited-inventory opportunity allows your company to provide a fully-created HTML email to be sent to roughly 55,000+ email opt-in Learning Forward members. This exclusive opportunity is available to 1 advertiser per month.

    Advertising Rates

    List typeCostSent to
    Full List$8,250Includes all current email opt-in members (approx. 55,000)
    Targeted List$5,250Choose 1:

    Teachers/Teacher Leaders (approx. 21,500)

    District/Central Office Staff, Principals/Assistant Principals, Directors/Coordinators of Professional Learning and Superintendents/Assistant Superintendents (approx. 20,500)

    HTML Materials Requirements for Advertisers

    • Fully designed, ready-to-send email in an HTML file (use a testing service such as litmus to confirm html validation and deliverability of code)
    • Footer must include; Company Name, Full Address, Email Address, Unsubscribe Text, Learning Forward’s Disclaimer (disclaimer to be added by Learning Forward)
    • Subject line for email (40 characters maximum)
    • Pre-Header text for the email (75 characters maximum)

    Helpful Hints For Positive Metrics

    • Do not use a whole single image as your email blast
    • Make sure the “Subject Line” is positive and consider promotion of an “offer” in the “Subject Line”

    HTML Requirements

    • 650px wide (recommended)
    • Mobile responsiveness
    • Build the HTML file with tables instead of DIV; DIV does not work well with email
    • Do not use a whole single image as your email blast
    • All images and fonts need to be linked to the appropriate files hosted on your servers (no local files)
    • All hyperlinks need to be embedded

    Deadlines and Proofing

    • Materials are due at least two weeks prior to email send date
    • All content is subject to review by Learning Forward
    • Necessary alterations are the responsibility of and at the expense of the advertiser
    • Materials that do not meet stated advertising specifications will be rejected
    • Once the advertiser-provided HTML is approved by Learning Forward, a proof from Learning Forward’s email system will be sent for advertiser approval
    • A delay in materials or advertiser approval could jeopardize the send date and result in not running at all; or pushing out several months due to the popularity of this email blast opportunity

    Social Media

    Reach more than 80,000 followers of Learning Forward social media platforms with sponsored content posts. Social media posts may NOT publish within 5 business days prior to, during, or after Learning Forward events. Paid posts are limited to one post suite per week.

    Following: 40,000

    Following: 7,800

    Following: 33,000

    Requirements

    PlacementFeed and image dimensions and guidelinesFeed ad character limits
    XRecommended specs: 1,200 x 675 pixels

    Maximum file size: 5 MB for photos and 3 MB for animated GIFs
    Text: 200 characters (with spaces) recommended; 280 characters max

    Call to action with URL
    FacebookRecommended specs: 1,200 x 900 pixels

    News Feed image ratio: 4:3

    Recommended formats: JPG and PNG
    Text: 350 characters (with spaces) recommended
    (longer posts may be truncated on small screens)

    Call to action with URL
    LinkedInRecommended specs: 1,200 x 1,200 pixels

    News Feed image ratio: 1:1

    Recommended formats: JPG and PNG
    Text: 1,300 characters or less (truncated after 210 characters before clicking “See more”)

    Call to action with URL

    97%

    RECOMMEND, MAKE, OR APPROVE PURCHASES.

    Network directly with more than 3,000 potential customers and clients. Your support will be acknowledged in conference materials and throughout the conference in a variety of ways.

    THANK YOU for your support!

    This page hosts valuable resources for the execution of your sponsorship agreement and deliverables.

    Contact Renee Taylor-Johnson at [email protected] with any questions on the items below. Unless otherwise indicated, all assets may be submitted via email to Renee by the listed deadlines.

    Contact Laura Gaenzle at [email protected] with any questions.

    Deliverables listed below are tagged with the corresponding sponsor level to which they apply. Please review your executed sponsorship agreement for details on quantities and sizes.
    🥉 Bronze 🥈 Silver 🥇 Gold 💎 Platinum 🏛️ Legacy

    The decorator is Corporate Events, a Boston-based company. CLICK HERE to access the service kit. Discount rates expire after November 28, 2025.

    Send the complete list of logo files and a click through URL to [email protected] as soon as possible to begin gaining exposure as an event sponsor.

    1. .eps or AI full color logo (no background)
    2. .eps or AI knockout/white logo (no background)
    3. PNG or JPEG full color logo (preferably no background)

    Deadline: At time of contract – see Program Ads deadlines for print cutoff

    Specifications
    Paper: High-quality matte finish
    Trim: 8.375″ x 10.875″
    Live area: 7.375″ x 9.875″
    Binding: saddle-stitched
    Press: sheet-fed cover, web-offset text
    Materials: press-ready PDF files should be 300 dpi and CMYK

    Ad sizespecs
    Full Page8.889″ x 11.386″ with bleed
    7.373″ x 9.875″ without bleed
    Half Page7.373″ x 4.625″

    Conference Preview Deadline: April 15, 2025
    Conference Program Deadline: June 1, 2025
    August 19, 2025

    Submit print-ready ads to Renee.

    CLICK HERE to view the current production schedule.

    Submission Instructions

    Email Laura Gaenzle at [email protected] with your selection(s).

    Deadline: issue ad close/artwork due dates apply

    CLICK HERE to download the 1-hour session submission form (Word Document). Submit completed forms to Renee.

    Deadline: July 11, 2025 for inclusion in the printed program and December 7, 2025 for inclusion on the conference website.

    Sponsors can expect a complimentary registration code from Renee, which can be used on the event registration page for the quantity of registrations indicated by your sponsor agreement.

    Deadline: December 10, 2025

    Email Renee the following information for each person intended for a complimentary membership: full name, company name, job title, email address and mailing address.

    Deadline: N/A

    The list can be requested at any time by emailing Renee. Please allow 24-48 hours to process and send the Excel file of registered attendees. Provided fields include: full name, school district/organization, job title, city, state and email.

    Terms of Use
    The email list provided to sponsors is for a one-time use only. Sponsors may use the list, or individual emails, solely for the purpose of a single authorized communication related to their sponsorship. Any further use, duplication or distribution of the list is strictly prohibited. By accepting the list, sponsors agree to these terms.

    Deadline: N/A

    The sponsor reception takes place on Monday from 3:00-4:00 pm, where appetizers and refreshments will be served along with a cash bar. Sponsors can expect to receive 1-2 (depending on sponsor level) 6′ table(s), 2 chairs and electricity at the reception. Sales are permitted.

    Lead retrieval will be offered through Expo Logic again this year. The online order form can be accessed by clicking here. If purchased, can scan participant badges from your phone through the duration of the conference, not just at the sponsor reception. Sponsors with sponsor sessions may not use lead retrieval at the door of their session rooms.

    Geofencing

    Geofencing is the most targeted and effective way to reach an audience that has visited a very specific location at a specific time. For conferences, we start collecting user data on the first day of the show. As users enter the geofenced area their mobile id is collected and we can immediately start to serve your marketing message to this audience. We continue to deliver ads during the conference for an effective “at market” campaign and then target these same users for a week (or more) after the event.

    By offering hyper-targeted location-based ads, you will capture the attention of attendees at the annual convention, in their hotels, and even back at their offices and homes after the show. Don’t miss this targeted advertising opportunity!

    Option 1:

    Device ID or “Lookback” Geofencing

    This option allows you to capture attendees from the event location and serve them ads after the event. It’s a great way to keep your brand top of mind with this targeted audience.

    • 40,000 minimum impressions per campaign
    • $40 CPM for Display Ads, $65 CPM for Video Ads
    • One set of creative supplied

    Option 2:

    Microproximity PLUS Device ID or “Lookback” Geofencing

    This option allows you to serve ads to attendees both during and after the event. While attendees are at the event, your ad may highlight a session you are speaking at, a special offsite event you are hosting, or simply direct them to your booth. After the event, you may change your creative to a broader message about your brand.

    • 80,000 minimum impressions per campaign
    • $40 CPM for Display Ads, $65 CPM for Video Ads
    • Two sets of creative may be supplied

    Geofencing Specs:

    Submit all sizes for maximum reach. This is a mobile-heavy campaign, so the 300×250 and 320×50 will deliver the most impressions. Make the text on your ad as large and easy to read as possible. Consider using an animated GIF with multiple frames for the 320×50 so the text can be large and spread across multiple frames.

    Display banners for both desktop and mobile in the following sizes (JPEG or GIF plus the click-through URL) 

    • 728 x 90 pixels 
    • 300 x 250 pixels 
    • 300 x 600 pixels 
    • 160 x 600 pixels 
    • 320 x 50 pixels

    Contact your Learning Forward account executive today!

    Laura Gaenzle
    Account Executive
    717.430.2351
    [email protected]

    Schedule a Meeting

    Digital Ad Deadlines

    2025 Digital Ad Deadlines

    Month ad is
    running in
    Art deadline
    January12/13/2024
    February1/13
    March2/17
    April3/17
    May4/15
    June5/15
    July6/16
    August7/15
    September8/15
    October9/15
    November10/15
    December11/17

    2026 Digital ad deadlines

    Month ad is
    running in
    Art deadline
    January12/15/2025
    February1/15
    March2/13
    April3/13
    May4/15
    June5/15
    July6/15
    August7/15
    September8/14
    October9/15
    November10/15
    December11/13

    Sponsored Eblast Deadlines

    Must provide materials two weeks before your send date.

    Ad Submission Requirements

    • Send digital ad materials to: [email protected]
    • When emailing us your materials, please include the client acronym in your subject line.
    • All advertisers are subject to review and publisher’s advertising policies.
    • Necessary alterations are the responsibility of and at the expense of the advertiser. All materials must be submitted in accordance with the published deadlines and meet the criteria stated in the advertising policy.

    Ad Submission Info

    PRINT REQUIREMENTS AND FORMATS

    • A high-resolution PDF/X-1a file is required for all ads.
    • Colors must be CMYK. No ICC profiles, RGB, or Pantone colors.
    • Resolution of all photography and scanned illustrations must be at least 300 dpi. Line art should be 600 dpi.
    • Vital copy and images must be at least 1/8” away from trim. Spread ads must have at least 3/8” total gutter.
    • Materials should be submitted without crop marks, but full-page ads should include the required 1/8” bleed.
    • All fonts used must be embedded in the PDF file.
    • Using the bold, italic, or other style keys is not encouraged. Please use the bold or italic version of the font. (For example, instead of making Adobe® Garamond bold with the style key, use the actual font for Adobe® Garamond Bold.)
    • Flatten all layers and set transparency to highest setting.
    • Ads must be suitable to print as-is. Association is not responsible for any errors in content.
    • PLEASE NOTE: Materials that do not meet the stated advertising specifications will be rejected.
    • Necessary alterations are the responsibility of and at the expense of the advertiser. All materials must be submitted in accordance with the published deadlines and meet the criteria stated in the advertising policy.

    FOR PRINT SUBMISSION

    For instructions on how to upload your A high-resolution PDF/X-1a file, click here.

    FOR DIGITAL SUBMISSION

    For digital submission please email [email protected] or you may upload directly into our submission portal.

    For questions about your ad or the portal or if you need an invite, please reach out to [email protected].

    For instructions on how to upload your file, click here.

    PRODUCTION CONTACT

    [email protected]

    The YGS Group
    3650 West Market Street
    York, PA 17404
    Tel: 717.505.9701