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

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9:00am CDT

Choosing the Right Text to Maximize Literacy Growth

Thursday June 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

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

Thursday June 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Innovate B

common

9:00am CDT

Enhancing Inclusion: Implementing Assistive Technology in Learning

Thursday June 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Create 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 →

Thursday June 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Create B

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9:00am CDT

From Facts to Discourse

Thursday June 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Collaborate A

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 →

Thursday June 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Collaborate A

common

9:00am CDT

Leveraging Sentence Stems: Enhancing Language Skills and Socialization Opportunities

Thursday June 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT

Collaborate B

In this interactive professional development session, educators will explore the implementation of a differentiated talking chips activity designed to foster collaborative discussions among students. Participants will learn how to effectively utilize this strategy to encourage the use of academic language in response to written texts. By engaging in hands-on activities, educators will gain insights into how to create an inclusive environment that promotes communication and critical thinking. This session aims to equip teachers with practical tools to enhance student engagement and deepen comprehension through collaborative learning experiences. Join us to discover innovative ways to empower students in their discussions!

Speakers

Leigh Anne Frazier

Unlocking Learning: The Power of Metacognition, ESC Region 11

Leigh Anne has been in education for more than 30 years as a bilingual teacher, coach, and specialist. She was raised in Guatemala and considers herself a third-culture human being. She has a passion for ensuring students are academically successful while developing and nurturing... Read More →

Thursday June 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Collaborate B

common

10:00am CDT

AI for the Win: Using Artificial Intelligence to Create Educational Content and Save Time

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Innovate A

Improve your teaching efficiency with AI! Join my hands-on session to learn how to utilize artificial intelligence tools that create educational resources, allowing you to save valuable time. You will discover how to create engaging content more quickly, giving you more chances to focus on your students.

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 →

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Innovate A

common

global Y

10:00am CDT

Curipod for 100% Student Engagement

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Engage B

Spark creativity and dynamic discussions to make learning rigorous and fun. In this session, discover how to leverage AI to plan creative full classroom experiences and provide an immediate feedback loop that drives achievement (increase ‘meets’ and ‘masters’ 22%). Then, Curipod’s insight reports will be used to capture both classroom-wide and individual progress, providing valuable data to inform and refine instructional strategies. Walk away with a ready-to-use lesson customized to meet the needs of your classroom.

Speakers

Heather Brantley

Events and Community, Curipod

Heather Brantley is a passionate expert in leveraging technology to enhance classroom learning. With a strong background as a classroom teacher, she understands the challenges and opportunities educators face in today’s digital age. As an Events and Community Specialist, Heather... Read More →

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Engage B

common

global Y

10:00am CDT

Data Drive: Navigating the Roadmap to Teaching Success

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Engage A

Data Literacy: Region 11 Session Proposal

Speakers

Sukai Durosimi

Superintendent, EAST FORT WORTH MONTESSORI ACADEMY

Data Literacy: Region 11 Session Proposal

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Engage A

common

10:00am CDT

Empowered Readers: The Science Behind Effective Teaching

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Innovate B

In this session, participants will learn what research says about The Science of Teaching
Reading and how that translates into practical application in the classroom. We will
explore common misconceptions and scientifically sound instructional shifts to improve
literacy learning outcomes for all students.

Speakers

Tanya Kellerman

Science of Teaching Reading Implementation Specialist, ESC Region 11

Tanya Kellerman, M.Ed., is a dedicated Science of Teaching Reading Implementation Specialist with extensive experience in education. She has served as a Cohort Leader for the Texas Reading Academies, guiding educators in enhancing their literacy instruction. Tanya's expertise encompasses... Read More →

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Innovate B

common

global Y

10:00am CDT

Maximizing TCMPC Texas Curriculum Resources (TCR) with Bluebonnet Learning

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Collaborate A

Unlock the power of Bluebonnet Learning in conjunction with the TCMPC Texas Curriculum Resources (TCR) to create engaging, flexible, and aligned learning experiences. This session will explore strategies for leveraging TCR tools for curriculum planning while incorporating Bluebonnet to enhance differentiation, collaboration, and student engagement. Leave with practical resources and strategies to seamlessly blend Bluebonnet and TCR for a more dynamic and effective instructional approach.

Speakers

Erica Hungerford

TCMPC Specialist, Region 11

Erica Hungerford, Ed.D. is a dedicated education professional with 19 years of experience in the field. She currently serves as the TCMPC Specialist for Region 11, where she supports educators in implementing high-quality curriculum and instructional resources. With a passion for... Read More →

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Collaborate A

common

10:00am CDT

Setting Up Your Classroom for Success for Your Students

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Engage D

The environement you create in your classroom can cause your class to thrive or struggle. Let's dive into planning your day(procedures, routines, students' needs), your classroom environement (visuals, furntiure, data), and how to prepare for an amazing school year. We a will also discuss the what-ifs that we face everyday and how to adjust on the fly.

Speakers

Tiffany Roberts

Behavior Specialist, Forney ISD

Tiffany Roberts has seventeen years of experience in the educational field and fifteen of those years have been in Special Education. She earned her Masters in Special Education with a focus in Challenging Behaviors in 2020. Tiffany enjoys sharing her passion for working with students... Read More →

Patricia Bogle

Autism/Behavior Specialist, Forney ISD

Patricia is currently working as an Autism/Behavior Specialist for the Forney Independent School District. Overall, she has 19 years of experience supporting students receiving special education services. Patricia has worked with all ages from ECSE to high school. Most of her... Read More →

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Engage D

common

global Y

10:00am CDT

Supporting Science and Engineering Reasoning through the RTCs (Elementary)

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT

Create A

Are you an elementary teacher looking for effective ways to strengthen students' scientific reasoning in Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER) structured writing tasks? Join Monica Amyett on a dynamic journey to the summit of student success! In this course, we’ll explore how to use the new Recurring Themes and Concepts (RTCs) to guide students through the challenges of reasoning. You'll gain practical techniques to deepen student thinking and enhance scientific communication.

Speakers

Monica Amyett

Instructional Content Specialist - Science and STEM, Region 11

Please copy from other application.

Ph.D.

Thursday June 26, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Create A

common

1:30pm CDT

Brain-Based Teaching: Considerations of the Whole Child

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Engage D

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 →

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Engage D

common

1:30pm CDT

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

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Engage C

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 →

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Engage C

common

1:30pm CDT

Building Effective Partnerships in Your Classroom

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Create B

We are all on the same team. You will learn how to build your partnership with parents, co-workers, paraprofessionals, and administration. Come join me and bring your own team.

Speakers

Tiffany Roberts

Behavior Specialist, Forney ISD

Patricia Bogle

Autism/Behavior Specialist, Forney ISD

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Create B

common

global Y

1:30pm CDT

Building Mathematical Reasoning in Grades 3-5 Using STAAR Questions

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Engage B

Are you a 3rd-5th grade math teacher looking for ways to enhance your students' mathematical reasoning skills? Strengthening mathematical reasoning in the classroom not only builds problem-solving skills but also helps students understand the why behind mathematical procedures, fostering independence and confidence in math. Join this session to explore strategies and routines that will help students think critically and develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. Using STAAR questions as a foundation, you will learn how to guide students in analyzing, justifying, and validating their mathematical ideas and solutions.

Speakers

Wijdan Haddad

Math Curriculum Coordinator, Venus ISD

With over 25 years of experience in education, Wijdan Haddad is a dedicated mathematics expert specializing in teaching, coaching, and curriculum development across all levels. She has extensive knowledge of the Texas Math TEKS, Cambridge IGCSE, and the International Baccalaureate... Read More →

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Engage B

common

global Y

1:30pm CDT

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

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Collaborate B

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 →

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Collaborate B

common

1:30pm CDT

Introduction to an IEP

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Innovate A

Have you ever wondered, "What is an IEP?" or "What do I do with an IEP?" This session aims to clarify the essential components of an IEP and highlight their significance in guiding instruction, providing necessary supports and services, and ensuring that students with disabilities achieve success in their educational endeavors. Participants are encouraged to bring a redacted copy of an IEP to facilitate the identification of its relevant components.

Speakers

Christi Perkins

Special Education Specialist, ESC Region 11

Christi Perkins is a Special Education Specialist dedicated to assisting both general and special education teachers in delivering optimal learning experiences through the implementation of inclusive practices for students with diverse learning needs. With over 25 years of teaching... Read More →

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Innovate A

common

1:30pm CDT

Syntax Matters: Improving Student Comprehension and Writing

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Collaborate A

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 →

Thursday June 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Collaborate A

common

2:30pm CDT

Brain-Based Teaching – Attention and Focus

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Engage D

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

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Engage D

common

2:30pm CDT

Closing the Opportunity Gap – Breaking Barriers while Maintaining Connections

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Innovate A

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 the home learning environment shapes the student mindset in both constructive and deleterious ways. Attendees will have the opportunity to draw upon their own home learning environment and reflect upon the advantages and/or disadvantages they encountered. They will also explore research based pragmatic strategies to assist students in overcoming cultural barriers while maintaining cultural connections.

Speakers

James Hopper

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Innovate A

common

2:30pm CDT

Designing Effective Assessments: Master Canvas New Quizzes Today!

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Engage B

Explore how to leverage Canvas New Quizzes to assess student understanding effectively! In this interactive session, educators will learn to design assessments that provide meaningful insights into student performance. Discover various question types and best practices for crafting effective quizzes. Participants will leave with practical strategies and templates that can be immediately implemented to enhance assessment practices in their classrooms.

Speakers

Brent Mischnick

Digital Learning Specialist, ESC Region 11

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Engage B

common

global Y

2:30pm CDT

Fostering Critical & Creative Thinking Through Children's Literature

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Engage A

In this dynamic session, educators will gain an understanding of the importance of fostering critical and creative thinking skills and how children's literature can be a powerful tool in this process. The session will cover a variety of engaging books and activities that encourage reflective thinking, problem-solving, and creativity among students. Educators will have the opportunity to reflect on how to adapt and apply these strategies in their own classrooms, ensuring they can effectively support students in becoming thoughtful, independent learners.

Link to Presenter’s Agenda DRAFT
Link to Slides DRAFT

Speakers

Cindy Garcia

ESC Region 11 GT/Advanced Academics Instructional Specialist, Education Service Center Region 11

Cindy Garcia is an ESC Region 11 GT/Advanced Academics Instructional Specialist with 25 years of experience in education. She holds a B.A. in Elementary Education and an M.Ed. in Gifted Education, with certifications in Elementary Education, 4-8 ELAR, Gifted and Talented, and ESL... Read More →

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Engage A

common

2:30pm CDT

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

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Collaborate B

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 →

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Collaborate B

common

2:30pm CDT

Opening Doors to Reading: Making Books Accessible for All!

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Innovate B

In this engaging and hands-on session, educators will discover innovative strategies to make reading accessible for all students. Participants are encouraged to bring a device to practice these techniques and empower students to take control of their own reading accessibility.

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 →

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Innovate B

common

2:30pm CDT

Supporting Science and Engineering Reasoning through the RTCs (Secondary)

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Create A

In this course, we’ll explore how to use the new Recurring Themes and Concepts (RTCs) to guide students through the challenges of reasoning. With a special focus on advanced learners, we’ll equip you with strategies that push these students to reach their highest potential while fostering critical thinking skills. You'll gain practical techniques to deepen student thinking and enhance scientific communication.

Speakers

Monica Amyett

Instructional Content Specialist - Science and STEM, Region 11

Please copy from other application.

Ph.D.

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Create A

common

2:30pm CDT

Teaching Phonics with Purpose: Structuring for Success

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Engage C

Unlock the power of purposeful phonics instruction! In this session, you’ll learn how to structure an effective phonics block from start to finish. We’ll break down each component, explore practical strategies, and share tips for keeping students engaged. Whether you’re new to teaching phonics or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide you with the tools and confidence to make your phonics lessons impactful. Join us and discover how to teach phonics with purpose and success!

Speakers

Kasha Ashworth

Reading Academies Cohort Leader, ESC Region 11

Thursday June 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Engage C

common

global Y