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

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9:00am CDT

Best Practices for Supporting All Learners

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

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 Specialist, ESC Region 11

Devon Spence-Herron currently serves as a Special Education Specialist supporting special and general education teachers in designing effective learning experiences for all learners. With 15 years of experience in education, Devon has worked as a special education teacher across multiple... Read More →

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

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

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

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

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

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 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