Let's Connect at AC&E 2026!
We can't wait to see you at the ASBO International AC&E 2026! Stop by American Fidelity's at booth #709 to huddle up with our benefits team, draft winning benefits strategies, build your own minifigure champion, and score a chance to win our giveaways!
Don't miss out on other ways to connect with American Fidelity:
The Cost of Care - What Rising Healthcare Expenses Mean for School Districts
Wednesday, October 14, 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Room 403
Presenters: Megan Garton and Joel Shireman
Rising healthcare costs continue to place increasing pressure on school district budgets, employee benefits, and long-term financial planning. As premiums, claims, and employee expectations continue to grow, school business officials are being asked to balance fiscal responsibility with the need to offer competitive, sustainable benefits. This session will provide a district-focused look at the key drivers behind rising healthcare costs and the challenges they create for school systems. Attendees will explore practical strategies districts can use to evaluate plan design, manage cost growth, and communicate effectively with employees while maintaining workforce stability.
Innovation Hour:
Budget Hold'em
Thursday, October 15, 9:15 - 10:15 a.m.
David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Room 305
Presenter: Matt Salisbury
Take a seat at the Budget Hold ’Em table and put your budgeting skills to the test. Evaluate investments and reductions, build a budget-neutral strategy, and discover new ideas for attracting and retaining top talent.
Meet the Presenters
Megan Garton
Account Development Executive
Megan Garton is an Account Development Executive for American Fidelity. She has served in many different roles over her 20-year career. In each position, educating school employees on complex topics and trends affecting benefits has been one of her primary responsibilities.
Joel Shireman
Account Development Executive
Joel Shireman is an Account Development Executive at American Fidelity, where he has been helping organizations grow and thrive since 2014. A dynamic and highly charismatic speaker, Joel is known for his natural ability to build authentic relationships and connect with audiences in meaningful ways. He is deeply passionate about developing people and helping others reach their full potential—both professionally and personally. Based in Ohio, Joel is a proud husband and father of two, and he brings the same energy, commitment, and heart to his work that he does to his family and community.
Matt Salisbury
Regional Manager
Matt Salisbury, based out of Ohio, has been a part of the American Fidelity team for over 14 years. Salisbury is the Northeast Regional Manager focused on growth and partnership strategies across the states he oversees. He is passionate about developing high-performing teams, strengthening relationships with school districts and association partners, and helping organizations navigate changing legislative and regulatory landscapes. Matt’s leadership centers on building people, creating long-term partnerships, and positioning stakeholders for sustainable success in an evolving education and benefits environment.