CMS Coaches Symposium
The objective of this CMS Coaches Symposium is designed to provide coaches with immediate access and opportunity to network, train, learn, and grow so we best support the whole student athlete athletically, academically, mentally, and socially to prepare them for college and beyond.
CMS provides athletic opportunities for over 10,000 high school and middle school students in 20 high schools and 43 middle schools, roughly 7% of the total student population of 140,000 plus in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
The CMS Coaches Symposium will be a catalyst for incorporating the year-long professional development needed for coaches, athletic administrators in this ever-changing field of education base athletics. This will be the vehicle with which we will establish connectivity, continuity and empowerment of our coaches, AD’s, administrators and support staff in the CMS athletic programs.
Set the Standard. Raise the Bar. Be the Coach Who Inspects What You Expect. Are you the kind of coach who holds the line on excellence? Then be the coach who inspects it, sharpens it, and leads it forward.
July 28, 2026
8am-2pm
Harding University High School
2001 Alleghany St
Charlotte, NC 28208
CEU’s are provided for CMS employees.
Join us for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools 2026 Coaches Symposium—a premier professional development experience designed to empower, equip, and elevate athletic coaches across our district and beyond.
This is more than an event.
It’s a movement to lead with purpose, grow with intention, and connect with coaches who refuse to settle.
Why should you register today?
Because the best coaches don’t wait for opportunities—they create them.
Get early access to:
- Dynamic keynote speaker announcements
- High-impact session schedules
- Hands-on First Aid/CPR training
- Event logistics and timely reminders
Excellence starts with accountability. Leadership starts with YOU. Register Today.
2026 Symposium Host
Ms. Jessica “The Girl Next Door”
Ms. Jessica “The Girl Next Door” is one of the most recognizable voices in urban radio, known for her vibrant personality, authentic storytelling, and ability to blend culture, community, humor, and real conversation.
With more than 20 years of broadcasting experience, Ms. Jessica hosts the #1-rated Afternoon Vibez with Ms. Jessica and co-hosts The Morning Madhouse on Power 98 in Charlotte, while also hosting Ms. J In Your Midday on KISS 105.9 in Detroit. Her afternoon show consistently ranks among the top programs in its daypart, and Power 98 earned the 2025 Station of the Year honor from the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters.
Known for turning celebrity interviews, cultural moments, and community conversations into must-hear radio, Ms. Jessica has built a loyal audience of “Nosey Neighbors” who connect with her daily across radio and digital platforms. Her digital content and viral interviews reach hundreds of thousands of viewers monthly.
Beyond the microphone, Ms. Jessica is a sought-after host, emcee, and speaker for local and national events, working with organizations and brands including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, Charlotte Soul Fest, Earn Your Leisure, UnitedMasters, Ally, Disney, the Charlotte Hornets, and the CIAA. Through endorsements and brand partnerships, she has also collaborated with Jack Daniel’s, FanDuel, Planet Kia, and Speaks Law Firm.
Ms. Jessica has interviewed former President Joe Biden and former Vice President Kamala Harris, and was selected as one of 30 North Carolina creators invited to the Executive Mansion by Governor Josh Stein as part of a statewide media and digital creator initiative.
Ms. Jessica’s interview style and cultural commentary have created memorable moments on-air and online. Her karaoke-style interview with Cam Newton singing Nivea & Slow Motion became a viral sensation, expanding her audience far beyond radio. She has also broadcast from the BET Awards, international destinations including Grenada and Curaçao, and the inaugural sailing of the Disney Wish.
A proud graduate of Johnson C. Smith University, Ms. Jessica is a 2026 recipient of the prestigious JCSU Arch of Triumph Award and a member of the university’s inaugural 40 Under 40 cohort. She is also a Diamond Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and serves on the McCrorey YMCA Board of Advisors.
Thank you to our 2026 Coaches Symposium Sponsors and Vendors
