2025 All Systems Go: A Teaching and Learning Conference: Full Schedule

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8:30am CDT

Hospitality Room for Presenters

Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 3:30pm CDT

Presenters Only - Please feel free to use this space to grab a quick snack or drink. You can also come in here to relax or prep for your sessions.

Wednesday June 25, 2025 8:30am - 3:30pm CDT
Connect A

9:00am CDT

Round Table - Literacy/ Social Studies (All Grades)

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Engage B & C

Participants will have the opportunity to meet with other educators to share ideas, solve problems, and grow your network.

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Engage B & C

9:00am CDT

Best Practices for Inclusive Services

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Create B

Inclusion occurs when students are fully accepted members of their school community. The educational setting is the same as their non-disabled peers, when appropriate, and the role of the general education and special education teacher is clearly understood when discussing specially designed instruction, supplemental aids and services as well as accommodations. Join us as we discuss the philosophy of inclusion that embraces appropriate support for students with disabilities in relation to engagement and progress in the general education classroom. Inclusion exists when students with disabilities are involved in authentic learning tasks that enable them to master the TEKS and make adequate progress in the general education curriculum.

Speakers

Devon Spence-Herron

Special Education Inclusive Services Specialist, ESC Region 11

See submission for Co-Teaching and Co-Planning for Collaborative Teams

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Create B

common

9:00am CDT

Digging Deep to Effectively Address Behavior Issues in the Classroom and at Home

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Innovate A

Participants will be guided through the process of discovering what the root cause(s) are for specific behavior concerns and how to address them effectively using research and evidence based strategies.

Speakers

Karen Sanders

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Innovate A

common

global Y

9:00am CDT

REACHing Higher: Empowering Advanced Thinkers Through Thoughtful Questioning

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Innovate B

Effective questioning can spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and ignite critical, creative, and reflective thinking in all students. The REACH framework—Ranking, Ethics, Affective, Connections, and Hypothetical—provides a structured approach to crafting high-level questions that engage students at every level, particularly to the needs of gifted and advanced learners. In this session, participants will explore integrating REACH questioning into daily instruction, creating opportunities for deeper engagement and intellectual growth. You will walk away with practical strategies that are easy to implement, equipping you with the confidence to elevate student discourse and enrich learning experiences across all content areas.

Speakers

Gypsy Mishoe

GT/ Advanced Academics Specialist, ESC Region 11

Gypsy Mishoe is a GT/Advanced Academics Specialist at ESC Region 11, bringing 26 years of experience as a secondary social studies teacher, instructional coach, and district liaison for Advanced Academics. A proud Texas native and mother of four, she is passionate about helping educators... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Innovate B

common

9:00am CDT

Unlocking the Power of Canva

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Engage D

Master Canva for Education in this interactive session! Learn to create engaging visual content and educational materials that captivate your students. We will cover best practices, template customization, and practical applications for the classroom. Transform your teaching resources using Canva's powerful tools.

Speakers

Brent Mischnick

Digital Learning Specialist, ESC Region 11

Brent Mischnick is a Digital Learning Specialist at ESC Region 11 in White Settlement, Texas. He is a passionate sports fan, supporting the Chicago Cubs, Bears, Bulls, and the Florida Gators. Brent holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a major in Sport Management... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Engage D

Digital Learning

9:00am CDT

Events Excel Engagement: Effectively Reaching Our Families (Teacher Addition)

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Collaborate A

This session focuses on leveraging school events as powerful tools for fostering meaningful family involvement. This session will guide participants through the planning and execution of events that promote engagement, discuss ways to create welcoming, inclusive experiences, and explore how such events can contribute to building stronger school communities. From Spirit Nights to fundraising events and family involvement initiatives, attendees will gain actionable insights on boosting family engagement, enhancing communication, and creating lasting partnerships between schools and families for the benefit of students' success and overall school culture.

Speakers

Christopher Turner

Principal, Legacy Traditional School- Cibolo

Christopher Turner,raised in Bay Shore, NY on Long Island, is a PK-8 school principal, who holds his EdS in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis in K-12 Education. His background as an Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, Interim Principal, Special Education teacher, and... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Collaborate A

Family Engagement

global Y

9:00am CDT

K-2 Shifting the Balance: 6 Ways to Bring the Science of Reading into the Balanced Literacy Classroom

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Engage A

The six shifts in bringing the science of reading into a balanced literacy classroom work together in a way that enhances their overall effectiveness. When implemented collectively, they create a stronger, research-based foundation for literacy instruction. The six shifts together bridge the gap between balanced literacy and structured literacy, ensuring students receive both engaging reading experiences and the explicit instruction they need to become proficient readers.

Speakers

Lindsay Carrier

Instructional Content Specialist-HQIM/OER, ESC Region 11

My name is Lindsay Carrier, and I serve as an Instructional Content Specialist for HQIM/OER at ESC Region 11. With 23 years of experience in education, I have taught 1st–3rd grades, worked as an interventionist, literacy coach, and reading specialist, and served as a district curriculum... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Engage A

Literacy

global Y

9:00am CDT

Do I have your attention? Maximize Student Attention with Strategies Rooted in Cognitive Science

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Collaborate B

Capture and sustain student attention with research-backed strategies designed to enhance learning and engagement. In this session, participants will explore effective techniques grounded in cognitive science, including the power of clear explanations to reduce cognitive overload, the use of accountable questioning to promote active thinking and participation, and the strategic use of choral responses to reinforce memory retention. Join us to discover practical tools that maximize student focus and foster a dynamic learning environment.

Speakers

Paola Pineda

Early Elementary Instructional Coach High-Quality Instructional Materials Specialist, ESC Region 11

Paola Pineda is an Instructional Content Specialist at ESC Region 11 with over 16 years of experience enhancing educational outcomes for all students, including emergent bilingual learners. She has previously served as an English and Spanish Reading Academies Cohort Leader, District... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Collaborate B

Student Engagement

global Y

9:00am CDT

Helping Students Cope With Anxiety

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 10:50am CDT

Innovate C

Speakers

Catapult Learning

Ed Steffek

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 10:50am CDT
Innovate C

9:00am CDT

Introduction to Conscious Discipline

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT

Inspire A & B

Speakers

Conscious Discipline

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT
Inspire A & B

9:00am CDT

Sensory Room

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 3:15pm CDT

Connect B

Wednesday June 25, 2025 9:00am - 3:15pm CDT
Connect B

10:00am CDT

Different Paths, Same Destination: Differentiation That Works

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Engage A

When most of your students come in with extra hurdles—whether academic, emotional, or both—differentiation isn’t a luxury; it’s a lifeline. This session is all about practical ways to meet your kids where they are without burning yourself out. We’ll walk through strategies that work for real teachers in real classrooms, especially those serving disadvantaged and high-need learners.

Speakers

Rachel Bracey

NORTH TEXAS COLLEGIATE ACADEMY

Eric Moore

Charles Cooper

Brittany Ray

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Engage A

10:00am CDT

Round Table - Special Education Parent Panel

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Engage B & C

Participants will have the opportunity to meet with other educators to share ideas, solve problems, and grow your network.

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Engage B & C

10:00am CDT

Brain-Based Teaching – Attention and Focus

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Innovate B

Attention is the gateway to learning, but capturing and sustaining student focus in today’s classrooms can be a challenge. This session explores neuroscience-backed strategies to enhance student attention, minimize distractions, and create engaging learning experiences. Educators will learn how novelty, movement, sensory regulation, and structured routines help direct student focus and optimize learning.

Speakers

Kerry Fergason

Instructional Content Specialist - Digital Learning, Educational Service Center Region 11

Kerry Fergason is excited to be a part of the ESC Region 11 family as an instructional content specialist for the digital learning team. She brings 20+ years of educational experience as a digital learning coach and former secondary science teacher. This Texas native has dedicated... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Innovate B

Brain Science

global Y

10:00am CDT

Catalyst for Change: High-Leverage Practices That Transform Teaching & Learning

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Innovate A

To achieve bold student outcomes, educators must make bold instructional moves. This session will provide participants with practical, research-based High-Leverage Practices (HLPs) that drive student engagement, academic achievement, and school transformation. Educators will explore key instructional strategies that foster deep learning, examine real-world case studies of successful implementation, and engage in hands-on activities to apply these practices to their own classrooms and campuses.
Participants will leave equipped with clear, actionable steps to embed HLPs into their daily practice, ensuring that all systems within their schools are aligned, intentional, and built for student success.

Speakers

DR SYLVIA R MITCHELL

SUPERINTENDENT, LEGACY TRADITIONAL SCHOOLS

Dr. Sylvia R. Mitchell is an accomplished educational leader, author, and consultant with over 25 years of experience spanning both the traditional public school system and the charter school network. She has served as a Superintendent, Regional Chief, Vice President of Schools, and... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Innovate A

common

global Y

10:00am CDT

"Effective Writing Instruction: A Science of Reading Approach"

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Collaborate A

This professional development session explores the key principles of effective writing instruction grounded in the Science of Reading. Educators will learn how writing supports the development of reading skills and vice versa. Participants will gain practical strategies for teaching writing that aligns with evidence-based practices, emphasizing phonics, vocabulary, and fluency in written expression

Speakers

Jessica Bravo Malagón

Presenter, ESC11

Jessica Bravo Malagón is a Reading Academies Cohort Leader at ESC Region 11, dedicated to supporting educators in implementing effective, research-based literacy instruction. With nine years of experience as a bilingual teacher, bilingual specialist, and literacy coordinator, she... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Collaborate A

Literacy

global Y

10:00am CDT

Advanced Word Study for Secondary Students

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Engage D

In this session, participants will learn about the importance of teaching advanced word study to all students, but especially to those who struggle with literacy. We will examine a bit of data demonstrating the gaps that some secondary students demonstrate in reading and spelling. We will then spend the rest of the time developing background knowledge related to English phonololgy, orthography, and morphology. Throughout the session, participants will learn and practice specific instructional strategies to help studentss develop advanced word knowledge.

Speakers

Dr. Thea Woodruff

Program Coordinator, Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk

Dr. Thea Woodruff currently provides support and professional development toTexas state-level partners, districts, and schools through the Tier InterventionsUsing Evidence-Based Research (TIER) initiative at UT Austin’s MeadowsCenter for Preventing Educational Risk. Additionally... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Engage D

Literacy

10:00am CDT

Unlocking Literacy: Multi-Component Phonics Instruction for Emergent Bilinguals

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Collaborate B

Unlock the full potential of emergent bilingual students during phonics instruction by leveraging phonology, morphology, semantics, syntax, and crosslinguistic connections. This session will provide practical strategies to enhance decoding and meaning-making while honoring students’ linguistic resources. Teachers will explore ways to make phonics instruction more accessible, engaging, and effective for multilingual learners.

Speakers

Paola Pineda

Early Elementary Instructional Coach High-Quality Instructional Materials Specialist, ESC Region 11

Esmeralda Orozco

Reading Academies Cohort Leader, ESC Region 11

Esmeralda Orozco serves as a Cohort Leader in the Reading Academy at ESC Region 11, bringing a strong background in bilingual education and early literacy. She holds a master’s degree in Bilingual Education and various certifications that support her work with educators. She integrates... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Collaborate B

Literacy

global Y

10:00am CDT

Harnessing Earth's Power: A Journey Through Geoscience and Energy

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Create A

This session integrates resources from The University of Texas at Austin’s Energy Science and Technology Institute. The institute is a week-long summer workshop for high school STEM teachers. Using these resources, this session aims to expose STEM teachers to student-centered activities that can be used when teaching earth science and natural resources standards. In addition, these activities incorporate engineering design and encourage student critical thinking.

Speakers

Dawn Chegwidden

Department Chair of Lewisville Science Department, Lewisville ISD

I am veteran high school science of 34 years. I have been at Lewisville High for the past 25 years where I am the campus department chair. I love sharing my passion for science with my students. I currently hold a position on the National Association of Geoscience Teachers... Read More →

Cody Patton

Secondary Science and CTE teacher, Ferris ISD

I am a passionate high school science teacher at Ferris High school brining 9 years of diverse classroom experience to the forefront of innovative education. As an eSports sponsor, he leverages a deep love for gaming to teach teamwork, strategicthinking and precision--skills that... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Create A

Science

global Y

10:00am CDT

Supporting Students With Intensive Social-Emotional Behavior Challenges

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am CDT

Innovate D

Speakers

Catapult Learning

Jana Rodriguez

Wednesday June 25, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am CDT
Innovate D

11:00am CDT

Round Table - GT Panel

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Engage B & C

Participants will have the opportunity to meet with other educators to share ideas, solve problems, and grow your network.

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Engage B & C

11:00am CDT

Empowering Students for the Future: College and Career Readiness in the Elementary Classroom

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Innovate B

This 45-minute presentation will equip elementary teachers with strategies and tools to begin fostering college and career readiness in their students from an early age. We will explore practical ways to introduce career exploration, goal-setting, and essential skills that students will need for success in both their academic journey and future careers. Teachers will leave with actionable ideas and resources to create a classroom culture that promotes growth, curiosity, and future planning.

Speakers

Stephanie Tennyson

Administrator Coach for CCMR and CTE, ESC Region 11

Stephanie Tennyson began her education career in 2007 at the Jack E. Singley Academy in Irving ISD, a 9-12 CTE-based campus. Then, she moved into project management with the Center for STEM Education and Research (C-SER). C-SER, a T-STEM Center, provides support to campuses implementing... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Innovate B

common

11:00am CDT

From Skills to Scores: Strategies for Excelling on the STAAR ECR

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Innovate A

In this session, participants will explore the essential skills students need to succeed on the STAAR Extended Constructed Response (ECR). They will examine the scoring rubric to understand key expectations and analyze sample responses to identify strengths and areas for growth. Through practical strategies and instructional techniques, educators will learn how to support students in developing clear, well-organized responses with strong evidence and analysis, ultimately improving their confidence and performance on the STAAR ECR.

Speakers

Erin Abernathy

Instructional Content Specialist, ESC 11

Erin Abernathy is an Instructional Content Specialist for Elementary English Language Arts and Reading at ESC Region 11. She has been an educator since 2004, bringing over two decades of experience to her current role. Erin spent 14 years in the classroom and served as an instructional... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Innovate A

common

global Y

11:00am CDT

PLC It Through: Connecting You to Implementation Success

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Collaborate B

Session Description: This session provides actionable guidance and collaborative frameworks for leaders to leverage PLCs effectively, ensuring the successful implementation of Bluebonnet Learning materials. Join us to harness the collective expertise of your PLC teams and maximize the impact of learning for all students.

Speakers

Rebecca Phifer

Texas Lesson Study Program Manager, ESC Region 11

See previous submission

Trinity Bankhead

Instructional Content Specialist: Texas Lesson Study Coach, ESC Region 11

Session previous session

Adriana Banks

Instructional Content Specialist, Region 11

See previous submission

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Collaborate B

common

11:00am CDT

The Learning Ascent: Balancing Challenge and Support for Advanced Learners

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Collaborate A

Gifted students thrive when they are challenged, but without the right balance, they can quickly become disengaged or overwhelmed. In this session, we’ll explore how to design ELA tasks that push GT learners to think critically without leading to frustration or busy work. Through hands-on activities and discussion, participants will experience different levels of challenge and consider the needs of the GT student when designing assignments that keep students in the “just-right” zone—engaged, motivated, and climbing toward deeper learning.

Speakers

Dr. Jennifer Garcia

Instructional Content Specialist: Texas Reading Initiative 6-12, ESC Region 11

Jennifer Garcia is an Instructional Content Coach for the Teaching and Learning Department. She loves working with teachers and students and has a passion for all things ELAR. She holds a Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership and a Master of Education in Curriculum and... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Collaborate A

common

11:00am CDT

Advanced Word Study for Secondary Students

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Engage D

Speakers

Dr. Thea Woodruff

Program Coordinator, Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Engage D

Literacy

11:00am CDT

Choosing the Right Text to Maximize Literacy Growth

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Engage A

Choosing the right text can make all the difference in your literacy lessons! In this session, we'll explore how to use a variety of texts—like decodables, picture books, and uncontrolled text—to maximize student growth. Discover practical strategies for selecting the best texts to meet your learning objectives and keep your students engaged.

Speakers

Kasha Ashworth

Reading Academies Cohort Leader, ESC Region 11

Kasha Ashworth is a Reading Academies Cohort Leader at ESC Region 11, where she supports teachers in bringing the science of reading to life in their classrooms. She’s passionate about helping educators use practical, evidence-based strategies that make a real difference for students... Read More →

Rachel Hart

Reading Academies Cohort Leader, ESC Region 11

Will provide

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Engage A

Literacy

global Y

11:00am CDT

From Facts to Discourse

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

Innovate C

In this session, educators will move beyond basic facts to engage students in processing skills essential for deep historical thinking, including civil discourse, credibility, bias, and short constructed responses focused on claim, evidence, and reasoning. Participants will learn how to guide students through complex historical inquiry that strengthens critical thinking, enhances reasoning, and promotes thoughtful discussions. By emphasizing these processing skills, educators can help students excel in sophisticated assessments, such as STAAR 2.0 questions, while fostering the ability to transfer knowledge across disciplines. Educators will leave with practical tools and strategies to cultivate deeper, more meaningful learning in their social studies classrooms.

Speakers

Kelly Bellar

Crystal Klose

K-12 Social Studies Curriculum Coach, ESC Region 11

I was in the classroom for 20 years teaching grades 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th and 8th. I've taught all subjects. I hold a bachelor's degree in education with a minor in English and a master's degree in educational leadership. I hold certificates for ESL, GT, and Principalship. My mission... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Innovate C

Social Studies

global Y

1:15pm CDT

Driving Decisions with Data: Effective Progress Monitoring in MTSS

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT

Engage D

In a successful Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), progress monitoring is not just a compliance task—it’s a strategic tool for improving student outcomes. This session explores how to implement meaningful progress monitoring practices that inform instruction, guide interventions, and ensure equitable support for all students. Participants will examine the essential components of progress monitoring at all tiers, learn how to select appropriate tools and measures, and interpret data to make timely instructional decisions. Real-world examples and practical tools will be shared to help educators build systems that are efficient, sustainable, and student-centered.

Whether you’re a classroom teacher, interventionist, or school leader, this session will strengthen your ability to turn data into action within a responsive and effective MTSS framework.

Speakers

Dr. Thea Woodruff

Program Coordinator, Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT
Engage D

1:15pm CDT

Round Table - Disability Panel

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT

Engage B & C

Participants will have the opportunity to meet with other educators to share ideas, solve problems, and grow your network.

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT
Engage B & C

1:15pm CDT

Enhancing Inclusion: Implementing Assistive Technology in Learning

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT

Collaborate B

This training is for administrators, teachers, speech-language pathologists, related service providers, and other professionals who will be collaborating on Assistive Technology (AT) considerations. This workshop will review assistive technology and the law. We will focus on research and best practices for considering the need for assistive technology. Team members will learn to utilize results to inform future decision making. This session is aligned with the Instructional Strategies and Teachers and Staff components of the TEA-required self-assessment.

Speakers

Susan Key

special education specialist, ESC11

Susan Key is a Special Education Specialist for Education Service Center Region 11, supporting Assistive Technology, Complex Access Needs, and the STAAR Alternate 2 assessment. She has worked with all ages and grades of special education students within the school setting for 16... Read More →

Laura Lewis

Speech-Language Pathologist, ESC 11

Laura Lewis is a speech and language pathologist who works for ESC Region 11. She graduated with a BA in education from Baylor University and an MS in communication Disorders from the University of Texas at Dallas. She has over 20 years of experience as a school based SLP and... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT
Collaborate B

common

1:15pm CDT

The Importance of Building Relationships for Student Success

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT

Innovate A

Strong relationships between educators and students are key to fostering a positive learning environment and promoting academic success. In this session, participants will explore the impact of meaningful connections on student motivation, engagement, and achievement. Through interactive discussions and practical strategies, educators will learn how to build trust, create a supportive classroom culture, and enhance student outcomes.

Speakers

Shannah Blankenship

Special Education Specialist for the Blind and Visually Impaired, ESC Region11

My name is Shannah Blankenship. I have been a TVI for 12 years and a COMS for 5 years. I am currently the Special Education Specialist for the Blind and Visually Impaired at ESC Region 11. I have a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Midwestern State University and completed... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT
Innovate A

common

1:15pm CDT

Wired for Success: Tier 1 Brain-Based Coping Skills in the Classroom

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT

Engage A

Wired for Success: Tier 1 Brain-Based Coping Skills in the Classroom
In this engaging session, educators will explore simple, brain-based coping strategies that help students regulate emotions, stay focused, and build resilience. Learn how movement, mindfulness, sensory supports, and co-regulation can create a more self-regulated and successful classroom environment. Walk away with practical, easy-to-implement Tier 1 strategies that support all learners in thriving academically and emotionally.

Speakers

Tiffany Sharp

Counselor, Brock ISD

Tiffany Sharp, M.Ed., LPC-AssociateTiffany Sharp is a dedicated school counselor with 17 years of experience in education, specializing in supporting students' emotional and academic success. She has taught grades K-8 and holds a degree from the University of Oklahoma. As an LPC-Associate... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT
Engage A

common

global Y

1:15pm CDT

Building Confident Writers in the Primary Classroom

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT

Create B

Want to inspire your young writers and help them feel confident putting pencil to paper? In this session, we’ll explore practical strategies and simple tips to build strong writing foundations in the primary classroom. Learn how to engage students, boost their confidence, and support their writing growth with effective, easy-to-implement techniques.

Speakers

Kasha Ashworth

Reading Academies Cohort Leader, ESC Region 11

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT
Create B

Literacy

global Y

1:15pm CDT

Syntax Matters: Improving Student Comprehension and Writing

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT

Innovate B

Syntax plays a crucial role in both reading comprehension and written expression, yet it is often an overlooked component of literacy instruction. In this session, participants will explore the power of syntax in constructing and extracting meaning from text. Through interactive activities, they will analyze how sentence structure impacts comprehension, discuss how syntax can enhance student writing, and identify the challenges presented by the complex syntax of academic language. Educators will leave with practical strategies to support students in navigating syntax effectively.

Speakers

Kimberly Smith

Instructional Content Specialist for Elementary ELAR, ESC Region 11

Kimberly Smith is an Instructional Content Specialist for Elementary ELAR at ESC Region 11, specializing in delivering creative, engaging, and research-based instructional practices in elementary English Language Arts and Reading. With 28 years of experience in education, Kimberly... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT
Innovate B

Literacy

global Y

1:15pm CDT

Getting the Most out of Desmos - From Online Calculator to Test Mode

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT

Collaborate A

What can the Desmos online graphing calculators really do? Applications like Desmos are dynamic platforms that allow and encourage student creativity in mathematics. Participants will explore strategies for starting with the online platform and gradually releasing it to the testing version.

Speakers

David Henson

Math Coach, Region 11

David Henson brings the intensity and excitement of a contact sport to teaching mathematics. By focusing on active, hands-on learning, he taps into students' natural curiosity, turning lessons into compelling explorations. From activities involving falling teddy bears, to investigations... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 2:05pm CDT
Collaborate A

Math

1:15pm CDT

Building Safety through Composure and Assertiveness

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Inspire A & B

Speakers

Conscious Discipline

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Inspire A & B

1:15pm CDT

Creating a Positive Classroom Culture for Students With Significant Behavior Support Needs

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Innovate C

Speakers

Catapult Learning

Jana Rodriguez

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Innovate C

1:15pm CDT

Modeling and Teaching Social-Emotional Skill Building

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Innovate D

Speakers

Catapult Learning

Ed Steffek

Wednesday June 25, 2025 1:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Innovate D

2:15pm CDT

Driving Decisions with Data: Effective Progress Monitoring in MTSS

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Engage D

Speakers

Dr. Thea Woodruff

Program Coordinator, Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Engage D

2:15pm CDT

Round Table - Charter, Math/Science (all grades)

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Engage B & C

Participants will have the opportunity to meet with other educators to share ideas, solve problems, and grow your network.

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Engage B & C

2:15pm CDT

Brain-Based Teaching: Considerations of the Whole Child

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Innovate B

Emotions and collaborative social interactions significantly impact learning and motivation. This session examines how positive emotions, relationships, and a sense of belonging enhance student engagement and cognitive development. Educators will explore strategies for fostering a supportive learning environment, using social interaction within collaboration to reinforce learning, and leveraging motivation to increase student perseverance and confidence.

Speakers

Kerry Fergason

Instructional Content Specialist - Digital Learning, Educational Service Center Region 11

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Innovate B

common

global Y

2:15pm CDT

Building Blocks of Language: Integrating Oral Language for Enhanced Vocabulary Development in K-5

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Innovate A

This engaging professional development will focus on the powerful connection between oral language and vocabulary development in K-5 students. Educators will explore practical strategies to create language-rich environments that support vocabulary growth through meaningful conversations, storytelling, and active listening. Participants will learn how to integrate oral language activities across the curriculum, assess student progress, and utilize tools that enhance both vocabulary acquisition and oral communication skills.

Speakers

Rhonda Bell-Wallace

K-5 Texas Reading Initiative Specialist, ESC Region 11

Rhonda Bell-Wallace is a dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience in literacy instruction. Throughout her career, she has served as a teacher, campus and district literacy specialist, and independent literacy consultant. Her passion lies in supporting... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Innovate A

common

global Y

2:15pm CDT

Elevating Voice: Teaching Secondary ELAR Students to Write with Depth (6-12)

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Create B

Students often master structure but struggle to develop a distinctive, sophisticated voice in their writing. This session explores strategies to move beyond formulaic responses, helping students refine their diction, syntax, and sentence variety for greater depth and clarity. Educators will engage in practical strategies designed to enhance authenticity and expression, empowering students to craft compelling, impactful writing.

Speakers

Brittany Kosumsuriya

Secondary ELAR Instructional Content Specialist, Education Service Center Region 11

Brittany Kosumsuriya is an Instructional Content Specialist for Secondary ELAR at ESC Region 11. With over a decade of experience in education, she has taught high school English and coached Secondary ELAR teachers. She holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Create B

common

2:15pm CDT

Helping Students Thrive: Supporting Oral Expression & Auditory Comprehension

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Engage A

Students with language disorders and specific learning disabilities often struggle with oral expression and auditory comprehension, impacting their ability to participate and succeed in the classroom. This session will equip educators with practical strategies to support these students in developing stronger communication skills. Participants will learn how to create a language-friendly environment, use evidence-based interventions, and implement accommodations that foster comprehension and expression.

Speakers

Laura Lewis

Speech-Language Pathologist, ESC 11

Aimee Seaberry

Evaluation Specialist, ESC 11

Aimee Seaberry is currently an Evaluation Specialist for ESC Region 11. She brings over 15 years of experience in education, with nine of those years of elementary and early childhood evaluation experience in the public and private sectors. While working in school districts, previous... Read More →

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Engage A

common

2:15pm CDT

Teacher, Know Thyself – Mitigating Implicit Bias in the Classroom

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Collaborate B

There are many influences on the complex issue of student academic achievement. This session will address one of them.

Through presentation and interactive participation attendees will learn how their own implicit bias can shape student mindset, and explore practical ways to mitigate these biases.

Speakers

James Hopper

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Collaborate B

common

2:15pm CDT

Unlocking Learning: The Power of Manipulatives in Thinking Classrooms (Elementary)

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT

Collaborate A

Join us for an engaging and interactive session designed to transform your classroom into a vibrant space for critical thinking and problem-solving! This session will explore the power of manipulatives in fostering a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and enhancing student engagement. Participants will engage in a thinking task and use manipulatives to deepen their mathematical understanding within the task.

Speakers

Michelle Peacock

Instructional Content Specialist - Math, Region 11

Same as other submission.

Wednesday June 25, 2025 2:15pm - 3:05pm CDT
Collaborate A

common