RSAC 2024

This breakout session will explore the vital role of empathy in fostering a positive school environment and enhancing students' and staffs' social-emotional development. Through discussions and engaging activities, participants will discover how empathy cultivates understanding, compassion, and resilience among students. By highlighting real-world examples and research-based strategies, this presentation empowers educators to integrate empathy-building practices into their schools, creating a supportive community where everyone feels valued and understood.

Speakers

Susan Parker

School Counselor

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Doral

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

From Assets to A's: Elevating Student Achievement through Asset-Based Learning

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Join us for an enlightening breakout conference session centered on leveraging Asset-Based Education to elevate student achievement. In light of recent data from the CDC advocating for enhanced mental health literacy and the promotion of social-emotional learning (SEL), our session will explore innovative strategies that prioritize the well-being of both students and staff. We'll delve into how asset-based approaches empower students to navigate challenges and thrive academically. By delivering classroom-based mental health education, promoting mindfulness practices, and offering targeted SEL instruction, educators can create a nurturing environment conducive to academic success. We'll also highlight the importance of enhancing connectedness among students, staff, and families. Fostering supportive relationships focused on strengths, well-being, and hope cultivates a culture of achievement and resilience. Furthermore, we'll discuss supporting staff well-being through well-being and Hope check-ins, recognizing its direct impact on effectively supporting student achievement. Join us as we explore how asset-based learning empowers students to reach their full potential and succeed academically.

Speakers

Jamie Morgan

Manager of Customer Success

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Pebble Beach

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

Growing Trust-building Leadership Habits: The School-wide Impact

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

White Oak

Despite understanding the importance of trust in leadership, many leaders struggle to identify their strengths and areas for growth in trust-building. We will share our multi-year journey focused on developing trust-building leadership habits and the significant impact this has had on our school's climate and student learning opportunities. Join us to learn about the personal strategies we've implemented, the professional development sessions we've conducted with our administrative teams, and the training we've provided to teachers.

Speakers

ANGIE CODRON

Principal

Sarah Crowder

Principal

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
White Oak

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Administrators
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

Turning Challenges into Growth: Building a Positive Mindset for Educators

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Teaching is a rewarding profession, but even the most dedicated educators face tough years. When challenges pile up, a positive mindset becomes our greatest asset. This session will equip you with strategies to: Thrive, not just survive: Learn how to view challenges as opportunities for growth, both for yourself and your students. Make it your own: Discover ways to tailor these challenges to meet your students' specific needs. Cultivate positivity: Develop a growth mindset habit that fosters a positive classroom environment and a more supportive school culture. By embracing a positive mindset, you'll be better equipped to navigate difficulties, leading to more effective teaching, a more positive school environment, and ultimately, greater student success.

Speakers

Tim Damery

Principal, Metamora Grade School

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Torrey Pines

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

Featured School - Improving Student Engagement through Empowerment: 5 Free Strategies to Implement Tomorrow

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Featured School, Climate/Classroom Management

Summit Academy prioritizes addressing the social and emotional needs of its students, resulting in improved attendance and academic achievement. Central to this success is the implementation of a comprehensive approach where students have a sense of autonomy, belonging, and competence. Through these, Summit Academy has developed systems for both students and staff, leading to a consistent increase in student engagement with their personal learning experiences year after year. If it works for us, it will work for you!

Speakers

Scott Bloomquist

Reg Supt, ROE #4

Paul Cassioppi

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Ballroom G-H

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

Anxious Students - How do educators address the increasing needs of students with anxiety?

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Ballroom A-B

Anxious Students - Jonathan Haidt, the author of The Anxious Generation, has spurred conversations on the possible root causes of increased anxiety and depression levels in children and adolescents. This session will provide all members of the educational staff an opportunity to share observations, insight, and strategies to address the increasing numbers of students with high-anxiety and depression in the educational setting. We will share and discuss information presented by Jonathan Haidt. What impact has high-speed internet, smartphones, and social media had on the mental health of children? Is this the root cause of the increase in anxiety and depression in children, especially females? What structural changes can be instituted? What changes can we make in the classroom?

Speakers

Daniel Donohue

Math Interventionist, SD308

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Ballroom A-B

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

Fabulous Foundational Fun: Strategies for Phonics Instruction

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Ballroom I-J

In this session you will learn how we transformed our foundational skills instruction to better meet the needs of our students. You will leave with practical ideas to implement in your classrooms right away. With this information you will be able to build a consistent daily routine that will help your students’ reading skills soar.

Speakers

Lindsey Wendt

Second Grade Teacher

Lindsay Cortez

Second Grade Teacher

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Ballroom I-J

Grade Level Primary (K-3)
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

INSPIRE: Harnessing Subscription Boxes for Educator Development

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Pinehurst

In the ever-evolving landscape of professional learning, educators are constantly seeking innovative and engaging opportunities to enhance their practice. Enter the INSPIRE subscription box—a dynamic and immersive approach to professional development that offers educators curated resources, tools, and activities delivered right to their doorstep. In this session, participants will explore the transformative potential of subscription boxes as a viable and accessible avenue for continuous learning and growth.

Speakers

Jordan Eggleson

Professional Learning Coordinator, Kane County Regional Office of Education

My name is Jordan Eggleson, and I am the professional learning coordinator at the Kane County Regional Office of Education. I earned my Bachelor’s of Elementary Education degree from the University of Illinois-Chicago with a middle school math endorsement. I earned a Master’s... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Pinehurst

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

Making Math Instruction Meaningful, Engaging & Authentic; A District's Story of Growth

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Monarch

The Olympia District engaged with ROE 17 in 2019 to create a math framework that was rooted in responsive instruction and problem solving. The work with the ROE started with professional development around shifting the manner in which math was taught. The shift from memorizing algorithms to a strong number sense and problem solving foundation, was initially difficult for staff. After multiple years of professional development, work to make the framework more robust, and providing our staff with math coaching, our growth continues to climb. In the session we will share the key elements in our journey and provide participants with resources that they could (and should) use to move their math instruction, and student's math performance, forward.

Speakers

Laura O'Donnell

Superintendent, Olympia Community Unit School District 16

Stevie Miller

Teacher

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Monarch

Grade Level Elementary School (K-6)
Audience Administrators
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

Rolling Towards Math Achievement: Engaging Games and Activities for Classroom Success

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Cardinal

This session is designed for educators seeking innovative approaches to enhance student learning in math through games. Delve into a dynamic session packed with dice games and activities to foster both classroom management and mathematical proficiency. Discover how these engaging strategies not only captivate students' attention but also cultivate a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts. Attendees will explore a diverse range of activities that can be tailored to many grade levels. With practical tips and adaptable resources, educators will leave equipped with tools to create an inclusive and stimulating learning environment where every student can thrive. Don't miss this opportunity to roll towards math achievement and transform your classroom into a hub of success!

Speakers

Jody Aldrich

Teacher, Signal Hill School

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Cardinal

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

9:30am CST

Reaching Students with a Short Attention...Squirrel!!!

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST

Let's face it...everyone in a school setting has a short attention span. Students and teachers alike are usually looking at screens or thinking about looking at screens. While that is not entirely bad, getting students to focus on the task at hand is a challenge. In this session, we will discuss all of the aspects of student/teacher engagement: from creative and practical ways to engage today's students (and teachers) in daily lessons, activities, and assessments to successfully breaking the trend of students spending more time staring into outer space than being "present" in the classroom.

Speakers

Jeff Bayer

6th Grade Math teacher, Eureka Middle School

I am a 17 year "veteran" teacher working on my 10th year teaching solely 6th grade math. First and foremost, I want my students to enjoy coming to class each day to try and eliminate the negative stigma that so many students have that coincides with my subject area.

Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Sugar Maple

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

**FEATURED SPEAKER** - Let’s Talk About Talking

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

Mallard

**FEATURED SPEAKER**, Climate/Classroom Management

Talking in math class sounds like a good idea, but is talk for the sake of talking a strong enough rationale? If math is a disconnected set of facts to memorize with rules to mimic, what is there to talk about? If, on the other hand, math is figure-out-able, then talking becomes a crucial part of the learning. And creating that discourse is not a trivial task. But we can do it! And it’s so worth it. Come learn why, when, and what to talk about.

Speakers

Pamela Harris

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Mallard

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

Creating a Culture of C.A.R.E.

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

Salt Creek

In this session, participants will learn How Cultural responsiveness, Affirmation, Relationships, and Empowerment can promote student success. The results-driven, high-achievement-at-all-costs cultures that plague many learning communities fuel educational inequities and harm students. In particular, students of color and other marginalized student groups like diverse learners, multilingual learners (MLs), and students living in poverty find themselves victims of school practices and cultures that fail to meet their needs adequately. In this session, the first turnaround principal in Illinois, Dr. Lionel Allen, Jr., will share how establishing and maintaining a culture of C.A.R.E. can address the academic failure and social exclusion that often characterize marginalized students’ experiences. Participants will learn how to establish a culture built on Cultural responsiveness, Affirmation, Relationships, and Empowerment that will improve experiences and outcomes for our students.

Speakers

Lionel Allen

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Salt Creek

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

Start Strong to Stay Strong!

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

"Start Strong to Stay Strong!" is a session designed to equip educators with the tools and strategies necessary to establish a conducive learning environment right from the beginning of each school day. The program emphasizes the implementation of rituals and routines aimed at fostering a sense of safety, belonging, community, and self-efficacy among students. By incorporating elements such as personalized greetings, purposeful partnering, community building activities, dedicated family time, and goal setting exercises, educators will learn how to create a nurturing atmosphere that sets the stage for successful learning experiences.

Participants will explore the significance of each component of the "Strong Start" framework and discover practical techniques for seamlessly integrating them into their daily routines. By prioritizing relationship-building and social-emotional development, educators will not only enhance student engagement but also cultivate a classroom culture where every individual feels valued and supported.

Moreover, "Strong Start" recognizes the crucial role of a positive classroom climate in optimizing tier one instruction. By laying the groundwork for a cohesive learning community, educators can facilitate more effective teaching and learning experiences, ultimately leading to improved academic outcomes for all students.

Join us in "Start Strong to Stay Strong!" and embark on a journey towards creating a classroom environment where students thrive, relationships flourish, and learning happens from the very first bell.

Speakers

Elizabeth Hand

Instructional Coach, Rockford Public School District #205

Erin Salberg

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Torrey Pines

Grade Level Elementary School (K-6)
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

Trauma Informed De-Escalation

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

White Oak

This training is intended for administrators, teachers, school staff members, school support, youth workers, social workers, and all the people who work with kids who wish to understand more about the process and the benefits it has on Trauma Informed De-Escalation benefits the whole school culture and climate. De-escalation should be exercised during a crisis to prevent a person from causing harm to you, themselves, or others. · 1. Verbal De-escalation consists of differentiated strategies to help minimize the number/length of crises and prepare people to deal with complex issues. 2. How crisis impacts the brain and body 3. How does brain development in teens influence crisis and de-escalation? 4. What is the role of trauma? 5. Tips for dealing with youth in crisis who may have trauma. 6. How can we make a difference through relationships and therapeutic understanding?

Speakers

Joe McQueen

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
White Oak

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Administrators
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

Crafting and implementing impactful and measurable coaching goals.

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

You have signed a teacher for a coaching cycle. Now what? In this session, participants will work with real coaching situations and learn how to create a measurable goal for the most common coaching requests. In addition, we will look at how to collect data on these goals for a more impactful and successful coaching experience. Participants will have a very active role in this session and will leave with goals for many common coaching scenarios.

Speakers

Stacey Hodits

Math/Science Coordinator, Lake ROE

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Ballroom C-D

Data, Cross Curricular

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

Featured School - So many skills one little room- Using a suite to provide CTE programming and authentic work opportunities for students.

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

Fulton High School, the CTE programs and FFA collaborate to provide students in art, construction, culinary, business, and media publication with a space to manage, construct, book and prepare meals for during high school events. The Steamer Suite provides a catered experience and private suite for customers, students, staff and guests as they watch Fulton High School events. Students oversee almost every aspect of booking, menu planning, promoting, meal preparations, and decorating the space. Learn how to create meaningful real life learning experiences that help students utilize skills taught in the classroom.

Speakers

Darryl Hogue

Superintendent, River Bend Community Unit School District 2

Darryl Hogue is the superintendent of River Bend Schools in Fulton, Illinois. Darryl has worked with the 18 high schools at the Whiteside Area Career Center, Sauk Valley Community College, Northern Illinois University, and Western Illinois University to coordinate efforts to begin... Read More →

Carolyn Meurs

Culinary Arts Instructor

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Ballroom G-H

Featured School, Instruction

Grade Level High School (9-12)
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

Best Practices for Students Struggling in Math

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

This session will highlight the six best practices for students struggling in math. These practices are found in the What Works Clearinghouse IES practice guide and include: Explicit instruction protocols, precise vocabulary use, exposure to multiple representations, incorporation of number lines to enhance learning, word problem guidance, and fact fluency tips. Participants will learn attributes of students struggling in math and explore concrete tools that work best for these students. This includes Cuisenaire rods and cluster cards to help deepen student understanding of various concepts.

Speakers

Aubrey Durkin

Math Content Specialist, Specific Learning Disability Support Project

Aubrey Durkin has been working in education since 2009. She has taught or tutored students leveled pre-k to 12th grade. She completed an elementary math program through UIC in 2020 and has her Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a math endorsement (5-8). In the past... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Sugar Maple

Grade Level Primary (K-3)
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

Showcasing Successful Instruction with Staff Taking the Lead Role

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

Ready to highlight successful strategies and celebrate best practices within your school setting? We’ll show you how to provide opportunities for colleagues to showcase their craft and learn from one another. See how we embrace five-star instruction and foster shared leadership through peer visits, share fairs, and more! It’s time to let your staff take the stage and shine!

Speakers

Amy Schneider

Instructional Coach, CCSD 46

Tami Singer

Instructional Coach, Community Consolidated School District 46 Grayslake, IL

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Pebble Beach

Grade Level Elementary School (K-6)
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

The Principles, Purpose, and Key Components of Effective Co-Teaching Practices

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

Ballroom I-J

Co-teaching is a collaborative special education service delivery model designed to enhance learning outcomes for all students. In this approach, the general education teacher and special education teacher partner together to provide instruction in a shared classroom with a diverse student population. This session offers valuable insight for educators seeking to understand the principles, purpose, and key components of effective co-teaching practices.

Speakers

Amber Lorenzatti

8th Grade Special Education Teacher

Danielle Buerkett

8th Grade Literature Teacher

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Ballroom I-J

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

What Teacher Leaders Want You to Know About Professional Development

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

Pinehurst

Is the professional development in your building helping teacher grow? Or is it holding them back? In this session we will share feedback from teacher leaders all over Illinois regarding thier feelings about the current state of PD in their schools- and what they wish thier administration would recognize about thier professional development needs. We will walk through specific recommendations from teachers about how to make professional development meaningful and how to incorportate teacher voice into the development process.

Speakers

Renee Gugel

Associate Professor and Teacher Leader Program Cha, Natoinal Louis University

Biography: I began mycareer in education as a high school English and Theatre teacher. I went on to serve as Dean of Students, Department Chair, and Associate Principal in districts in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. I have also served as a school board member in Antioch... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Pinehurst

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Administrators
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

"Unlocking the Potential: Understanding the Brain to Enhance Student Learning"

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

Doral

This interactive breakout session delves into the fascinating world of neuroscience to explore how understanding the brain can transform teaching methods and enhance student learning. Participants will gain insights into the latest research on brain development, learning processes, and practical strategies to apply these insights in the classroom.

Speakers

Steve Oertle

Assistant Superintendent, Roxana CUSD #1

Stephen Oertle is the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Roxana Community Unit School District #1 in Southern Illinois, the founder and director of CourseMason LLC, and an independent consultant specializing in the development of curriculum, assessments, instructional... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Doral

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

Enhancing Your Curriculum: IDNR Science Resources

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

Augusta

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Division of Education provides Illinois-specific materials and programs to the teachers in the state. On a tour using our website, we will explore ways to enhance the science curriculum with grants, lessons, professional development, publications, items for loans, and videos and podcasts. 1) Explore three different grants for teachers, Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant, the Historic Sites Field Trip Grant, and the Schoolyard Habitat Action Grant. 2) Discover lessons using the Illinois Learning Standards Search Page for the IDNR lessons. 3) Learn about Professional Development Workshops through the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program which are held throughout the state and provide Professional Development Hours. The IDNR is an approved Professional Development Provider. 4) Explore publications and many supplemental resources available at no cost to teachers. 5) Check out resource trunks and packs through a loan program that are stationed throughout the state. 6) Video- and audio podcasts are available on a variety of topics from “Wildlife in the Classroom” to “Biodiversity of Illinois” searchable page allows students and teachers to quickly find information about species in our state. Join our list server to stay connected to new ones for keeping updated with the IDNR Division of Education. We what the IDNR has to offer teachers.

Speakers

Lorna Shuman

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Augusta

Student Engagement, Science

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

10:45am CST

Critical Thinking: Integrating AI, Media Literacy, and Technoskepticism in K12 Pedagogy

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST

Ballroom E

In the rapidly evolving landscape of educational technology, generative AI tools present both opportunities and challenges for K-12 educators. This interactive session takes a balanced approach, exploring how to leverage the power of AI within a constructivist pedagogical framework while fostering critical thinking, media literacy, and a technoskeptical lens.

Speakers

Micah Miner

Director of Technology, Maywood, Melrose Park, Broadview School District 89

Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Ballroom E

Technology, Cross Curricular

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Developing Meaningful Relationships with Parents of Neurodiverse Students

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Pinehurst

The mental health of educators is critical for improved outcomes for students. Currently, a major factor in decreased mental health is the stress caused by poor relationships with students' parents. This presentation examines and explains why parents do not have the "know, like, and trust" factor with their child's teachers. Educators will have a different perspective on the reasons they may not have the "know, like, and trust" factor for and from their students' parents. Participants will learn strategies to implement immediately upon return to their school on how to foster the "know, like, and trust" factor for improved relationships and better mental health.

Speakers

Shelley Kenow

Founder and CEO, Shelley Kenow Education Consultant

I am a professional development provider for all things special education. I offer PD for behavior, working with paraprofessionals, being a paraprofessional, writing a due process proof IEP, collaborating with parents, writing clear accommodations and modifications, getting buy... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Pinehurst

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Leading with Trust: Building a United Administrative Team

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Climate/Classroom Management, Leadership

This session dives into the skillset needed for superintendents and their administrative team to function as a cohesive, high-performing unit.

We'll explore the importance of shared vision and goals. Participants will engage in self-reflection exercises to identify their individual strengths and weaknesses. Through group discussions, they'll learn to leverage these strengths for collaborative problem-solving and decision-making.

The session will emphasize effective communication strategies like transparent information sharing, active listening, and open dialogue. Leaders will learn to provide constructive feedback that fosters professional growth.

Building trust is paramount. The session explores methods for creating a safe space for open communication and respectful disagreement. Techniques for conflict resolution and fostering healthy team dynamics will also be discussed.

By the end, attendees will have practical skills for building a united administrative team, fostering a strong foundation for a successful school district.

Speakers

Jessica Sonntag

Superintendent

Kim Torman

Principal

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Torrey Pines

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Administrators
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Trauma-Informed Restorative Practices

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

White Oak

This training is intended for administrators, teachers, school staff members, school support staff, youth workers, social workers, and all the people who work with kids who wish to understand more about restorative practices and their benefits for the whole school culture and climate. Restorative Practices are an alternative response to misbehavior, harm, or misconduct that brings together all persons involved in conflicts in a personalized way that allows individuals to address damages accountability, move past shame and guilt, and develop solutions to rebuild stronger and restored relationships with each other, where communication, personal reflection, responsibility, and respect take a crucial role in growth moving forward. 1. Recognize the fundamental principles, concepts, and practices of a whole school approach to restorative practices. 2. Experience the circle process and review the elements of facilitating circles and conferences. 3. Learn a model for implementing and supporting restorative practices in your school.

Speakers

Joe McQueen

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
White Oak

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Administrators
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Understanding classroom disruptive behaviors: Breaking the cycle

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Do you ever find yourself stuck in a cycle of student disruptive behavior? You send the student to the office or redirect/reprimand them just to have the student return and continue with disruptive behavior. During this breakout session, we are going to discuss the two most common reasons for student disruptive behavior in the classroom. These two reasons drive many students to engage in disruptive behaviors in the classroom. Understanding those two reasons and trying some simple strategies may just stop some of the disruptive behavior cycles in your classroom. As a former classroom teacher and current School based Behavior Analyst, I have encountered many of these cycles and have worked with staff to break the cycles. Not all disruptive behaviors need extensive behavior plans to make meaningful changes in student behavior. Sometimes the simplest strategies can make the biggest difference.

Speakers

Christina Moran Happ

Behavior Anaylist, Knox Warren Special Education

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Sugar Maple

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Words Matter: Building Relationship Through Building Relationships

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Heron

In our rural slice of education, we are building relationships through our building relationships. Seven years ago a major shift occurred in our building and the new administration was tasked with changing building culture. Through extensive effort and data collection to identify needs progress had consistently been made with staff culture. Student culture continued to suffer, namely due to acting out behaviors and lack of parent support and/or follow through, which left staff culture on a plateau and also impacted student’s academic achievement. Through the challenges of a high poverty, drug use, and domestic violence school district we have chosen to implement a people-first model each day of the 2023-2024 school year focusing on touches of our humans each and every day. Every student and adult has a “touch” or interaction from the principals at some point throughout the day, 500 humans daily. These “touches” head off challenges before they ever get a chance to fester and grow into problems. These types of interactions take time management, care, thoughtfulness, grace, and humility. Ultimately, you solve problems by making connections, being proactive, and fostering great relationships through communication.

Speakers

Ben Mooney

Assistant Principal

Sally Timm

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Heron

Grade Level Elementary School (K-6)
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Become a Better Writer and Teacher of Narrative Writing

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

All students deserve to acquire writing skills. Most teachers are ill-prepared to teach writing. In this session, I demonstrate how to write narrative essays aligned to the Common Core State Standards. Session participants’ writing skills will be improved as will their learners’. During this workshop, I model strategies for brainstorming ideas, selecting an idea, planning a story, and writing the essay. Participants participate in each step, collaborate and share ideas, as writers often do.
First, I have participants craft a writing oath to themselves, agreeing not to be critical of their writing. Next, I model two methods of generating ideas and allow participants to practice creating a list of story ideas. Then, I model how to select an idea and turn it into a “first, then” statement. Participants will select an idea and do the same. Afterward, we discuss time order transitions and create a quick plan of the essay. We review the plan and make adjustments. We then consider elaboration strategies and add details to our plan. Lastly, I model turning my plan into a narrative story. Participants then do the same.
All participants leave this session with both resources and links to resources so they are able to return to their classrooms with the skills and confidence to teach their students to write. As a result of this session,, they will be able to model their thinking, decision-making, and writing for their students. Later, they will coach and support their students while following the process.

Speakers

Julie Bradshaw

Educator

Julie Bradshaw (Esparza) has 27 years experience in education and has taught third, fourth, and fifth grades. Additionally, she was a district professional development provider and gifted coordinator in a school district of 12,000 students where she contributed to expanding services... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Ballroom G-H

Grade Level Elementary School (K-6)
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Demystifying Tier 1 Interventions in the math classroom

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

As educators, we know that Tier 1 instruction provides all students with high-quality, initial classroom instruction tied to standards and a viable resource program. Nerves set in with the thought of implementing Tier 1 interventions for one or multiple students in their classroom. In this session, teachers and coaches will learn how to plan math lessons complete with embedded interventions using their current classroom materials and resources. Participants will be guided through several scenarios and see how easy it is to provide simple yet effective Tier 1 interventions with minimal prep and little to no stress for all standards, and for all grade levels.

Speakers

Stacey Hodits

Math/Science Coordinator, Lake ROE

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Ballroom C-D

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Research Lesson Study: Using an Inquiry Cycle to Experiment, Observe, and Improve Teaching & Learning

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Ballroom A-B

In this session we will describe the effect that Lesson Study cycles have had on our middle school math classroom. Looking at our school-wide learning goals as articulated in our research theme, we designed and studied units and lessons intended to:

Teach scholars to make sense of problems and persevere in solving them by teaching math through problem-solving.

Teach scholars to construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others through note-taking, board work, and students’ discourse.
Promote student discourse through the implementation of engagement strategies.
Come and learn how to use Lesson Study as a professional learning structure to explore professional teaching and learning problems with a group of fellow educators. In this session, we will share how we have used continuous cycles of lesson design, peer observation and data collection, and post-lesson conversations to deepen our understanding of teaching, while cultivating a school culture that supports inquisitive teachers working together on teaching and learning solutions in our school. We’ll share what we have done, what we have learned, and where we’re going next with Lesson Study to drive continual improvement.
While our lesson content and research themes have been centered around mathematics instruction through problem-solving, the Lesson Study process can be applied to any content area or grade level; Lesson Study can be the catalyst for improved learning for students in any classroom where teachers want to be better teachers!

Speakers

Nicole Blackburn

Instructional Coach

Andrew Friesema

Math Teacher, GMS

Hi! I'm an 8th grade math teacher at GMS. This is my first year in CCSD 46 after 19 years in Chicago Public Schools.

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Ballroom A-B

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

The Art & Science of Tailored Teaching: Research-Based Strategies for Effective Specially Designed Instruction

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Doral

The phrase specially designed instruction is not new, but is being used more and more in discussions about educating our students with disabilities. IDEA states that students eligible for special education services must receive specially designed instruction to meet the unique needs of a child with a disability. This session supports educators in developing essential knowledge and skills to ensure student success through SDI. Teachers will understand how to select and implement evidence-based interventions with fidelity to align with students' needs to provide the greatest educational benefit. Teachers will be able to refine their practices and discover ways to close the achievement gap for students with specific learning disabilities!

Speakers

Christie Johnson

Regional Specialist, IL SLD Support Project

I began my career in special education in 1996 and during my twenty-eight years in the field, I have held positions as a special education teacher, elementary school principal, an alternative education school principal and most recently, a special education administrator. During my... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Doral

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Special Education
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

ARCing your way to Motivation

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Monarch

In this 60-minute session, we'll delve into the psychology behind motivation and its crucial role in academic success. Discover techniques to ignite enthusiasm, foster resilience, and cultivate a growth mindset among your students.

Led by Kimberly Radostits, the 2022 Illinois Teacher of the year, this session goes beyond theory, offering practical tips and proven strategies gathered from real classroom experiences. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from each other and actively engage in hands-on activities that have been successfully implemented in diverse educational settings.

Don't miss this chance to revitalize your approach to teaching and learning, and leave with actionable ideas to enhance student motivation and engagement in your classroom.

Speakers

Kimberly Radostits

Teacher, Oregon High School

I am National Board Certified Spanish Teacher at Oregon High School with a passion for teaching Freshmen. In our district, I lead a freshmen team and run an intervention program for students that at-risk of not graduating on time. A role model of mine once said that teachers should... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Monarch

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Building Successful Scholars

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Ballroom I-J

It is no secret that teachers are facing intense learning barriers in the classroom today. In this session, teachers will work on worthwhile ways to build successful scholars from the ground up, igniting a love for learning along the way. Teachers will be introduced to the “Core 4” goals to develop a rigorous, meaningful classroom environment that increases student achievement.

What do you want your students to be able to do at the end of the year? We will lead teachers in developing individualized “Core 4” learning principles. From there, teachers will create a blueprint for success that establishes how to get to your students to reach new heights.

The cornerstone of this session will be creating Growth Mindset Gadgets. These student-generated building blocks are color-coded with meanings, positive affirmations, and can be used with any lesson across the curriculum. Scholars can continually monitor their learning process, offering opportunities for immediate intervention and student leadership. As a result, your classroom environment is transformed into a site where all stages of learning are celebrated.

Speakers

Kristen Kirk

Teacher

Kristi Pyatt

Teacher

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Ballroom I-J

Grade Level Elementary School (K-6)
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Curiosity vs Compliance - What's the Difference?

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Cardinal

What does curiosity look like in the math classroom and how do teachers cultivate a culture of curious learners? Together we will look at how to engage students in rich math tasks, puzzles, and games. We will explore and dive into multiple tasks (K-algebra) while wearing our “student hat.” By the end of our time together, you will have the start of a task toolbox with ideas to transform your students from compliant to curious.

Speakers

Katie Thomas

Math Coach, ROE #17

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Cardinal

Student Engagement, Math

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Executive Functioning Skills and Strategies to Help

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

What is Executive Functioning, and why is it important? Executive functioning involves skills needed in the classroom, workplace, and everyday life. Today’s students, and adults, are continuously surrounded by information and expectations. During the pandemic, students missed out on opportunities to learn and develop vital executive function skills needed to succeed. This session will provide an overview of the different executive function skills, age-appropriate skill development (elementary through high school school), and provide various strategies to support students in developing executive function skills.

Speakers

Katie Moreland

Special Education Teacher, Ridgeview 19

This is my 10th year as a Special Education Teacher, and my third school district. My passion is reaching those "difficult" students through relationship building and helping them find success. I enjoy sharing my knowledge to help other educators make connections in their classro... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Pebble Beach

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Unlocking the Power of Active Participation: Strategies for Dynamic Classroom Engagement

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Salt Creek

In this engaging presentation, we delve into the realm of active participation in the classroom. From fostering collaboration to enhancing critical thinking skills, we will explore practical strategies and techniques that empower educators to cultivate an environment where every student is actively involved in their learning. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, attendees will gain valuable insights into creating lessons that captivate students' interest, promote deeper understanding, and ultimately foster a love for learning. Join us as we embark on a journey to move students from actively DISengaging to actively ENGAGING!

Speakers

Kim Paulus

Instructional Coach, Central CUSD 301

Kim Paulus, Ed.D. is an experienced Instructional Coach, teacher and presenter employed at Central 301 in the Chicago Suburbs. She spent 27 years in the middle school classroom and is in her 6th year as an Instructional Coach. Kim is a strong believer in the power of a Growth Mindset... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Salt Creek

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

12:00pm CST

Coyote Track: Exploring Real Science Data In Your Classroom

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST

Augusta

Explore Coyote Track interactive visualization tool. This online site centers around coyote ecology and behavior related to data collected from radio-collared coyotes in urban and rural areas of Illinois. Using real data, this workshop will guide participants through the visualization data tool and standard-based lessons that support the unit. Participants will learn about how and why scientists are studying coyotes in Illinois including learning about telemetry and how the information is gathered. The workshop is geared toward teachers of Illinois high school and middle school students. Upper elementary teachers are also welcome as the information can be used with younger students.

Speakers

Lorna Shuman

Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Augusta

Technology, Science

Grade Level Middle School (6-8)
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

**FEATURED SPEAKER** - The Most Effective Math Instructional Routine

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

Mallard

The powerful teaching tool, Problem Strings, is a purposeful sequence of related problems designed to help students mentally construct mathematical relationships. It is an intriguing lesson structure during which teachers and students interact to construct important mathematical strategies, models, and concepts. The power of a problem string lies in the carefully crafted conversation as students solve problems, one at a time, and the teacher makes student thinking visible and draws out important connections and relationships. Finally a way to teach math that is not just showing and memorizing steps–and gets results.

Speakers

Pamela Harris

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Mallard

**FEATURED SPEAKER**, Instruction

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

Everyday SEL for the Classroom

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

Augusta

Social Emotional Learning has become a core focus in education due to the growing challenges and demands faced in the classroom. In this session, participants will walk away with tips, tools, and strategies to use in their classrooms that focus on cultivating a supportive classroom environment, integrating SEL into academic instruction, and teaching explicit SEL instruction. We will discuss and model how to use SEL topics such as growth mindset, mindfulness, student book clubs, and restorative practices to build a classroom culture while integrating specific SEL instruction. Participants will walk away with tools, strategies, and ideas that can be taken back to their classrooms and implemented immediately.

Speakers

Laura Steiner

social worker

Kelsey Kirk

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Augusta

Grade Level Primary (K-3)
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

Relationships First: Academic and Social-Emotional Success in the Multilingual & Multicultural Classroom.

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

Establishing a safe, positive and productive learning environment within our multilingual and multicultural classrooms is crucial for students’ academic, emotional and social success, as well as teachers’ wellbeing. This presentation will provide classroom activities, restorative practices and strategies to create an environment characterized by a climate of safety, where interactions are highly respectful and individuals background and differences are celebrated. By implementing these strategies, all education stakeholders will combine the building of relationships and positive learning environments that foster improved academic performance and intellectual engagement in challenging content.
As a result of this presentation participants will:
Build and strengthen their school community/classroom.
Develop a better understanding of the multilingual and multicultural classroom and its components.
Learn restorative practices to create a positive classroom environment.
Learn classroom activities that can be integrated in the curriculum to foster student engagement and achievement.

Speakers

María Barragán Ortiz

PhD Researcher / Instructional Coach

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Torrey Pines

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

Data, Data, and More Data! How Educators Use Data Effectively

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

Heron

May educators are inundated with data without a clear vision of which data is useful for what. This session will address how to make the most of your data by identifying the appropriate purposes for each type of data and how to use the information effectively to suit those purposes. Participants will learn about the work being done in multiple districts to streamline data interpretation and implement processes for effective data use.

Speakers

Jennie Winters

Graduate Studies Professor, McKendree University

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Heron

Data, Cross Curricular

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

Build the Foundation

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

Monarch

The shift to structured literacy highlights the significance of foundational skills. For numerous educators, this signifies a fresh perspective or set of skills. In this session, teachers will understand the core principles of structured literacy instruction, covering phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. They will grasp how these elements improve reading instruction effectively for students of all levels. Participants will engage in and learn diverse hands-on and digital methods that can be readily applied in their classrooms.

Speakers

Katie Normoyle

Instructional Coach, CCUSD 301

Leah Herold

Instructional Coach, Central District 301

Leah Herold is in her 17th year as an educator in Central District #301. This is her seventh year of being an Instructional Coach. Prior to this position, she taught 4th grade for nine years. Leah is a Level 1 & 2 Google Certified Educator. She holds an undergraduate degree in Elementary... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Monarch

Grade Level Primary (K-3)
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

Confused to Confident: Empower Students with Math Word Problems

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

Empowerment through problem solving word problem is possible! Discover practical strategies to engage students in deep thinking about math tasks through productive struggle and math discussions. Leave equipped to seamlessly integrate these techniques into your curriculum and empower your students in conquering word problems!

Speakers

Mona Iehl

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Ballroom G-H

Grade Level Primary (K-3)
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

Finding Focus: Designing School Improvement Plans

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

School improvement planning does not need to be complicated to yield results in student achievement. Join us to learn about a simple, yet effective way to structure focused improvement planning efforts. While our plan focuses on writing across the content areas, the process can be applicable to any area of focus.

Speakers

Kristin Johnson

Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, Mokena School District 159

Mike Rolinitis

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Pebble Beach

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Administrators
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

How Does Your Classroom "Pop?": One School's Strategies For Fostering Excited and Engaged Learners of Varying Skill Levels in Reading and Math

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

Just as kernels of popcorn from a bag do not all pop at the same time, our students all grasp and master concepts at different rates. Learn how we drastically improved student reading levels with our school-wide guided reading program and then adapted it to focus on improving our students' basic math skills, all while boosting students' confidence and excitement. Participants will walk away with methods and strategies for implementing these two programs and the reasons behind why we do what we do. This hands-on session will give educators a glimpse of the working pieces of our guided reading and math block programs.

Speakers

Erin Odle

Deanne Aldridge

Special Education

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Ballroom C-D

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

How to Design Engaging Middle School Advisory Curriculum: A Case Study of Hawthorn District #73

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

White Oak

In this session, we will share a real life example of how we designed a Guaranteed Viable Curriculum (GVC) for the Middle School Advisory program in Hawthorn District #73. We will explore the process including the vision, leadership team formation, data collection, planning, and implementation stages. We will discuss how to create a middle school advisory framework and evidence-based practices that foster positive, strengths-based relationships between staff and students. We will also explore Community Circles, and the role they play in cultivating learning environments that are safe, positive, and inclusive of all learners. Participants will learn how they can replicate the process for their specific school setting.

Speakers

Lindsay Knoblauch

Consultant, SEL Integrations

With 18 years of experience in both the classroom and as a district level administrator, Lindsay is an educator at heart. Lindsay's passion and talents are seamlessly embedding SEL and mindfulness practices into daily classroom routines, creating environments where trust and community... Read More →

Megan Goldman

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
White Oak

Instruction, SEL

Grade Level Middle School (6-8)
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

1:15pm CST

Accommodations and Modifications-Where Most Due Process Hearings Begin

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST

Pinehurst

As a general education teacher is it your responsibility to provide accommodations? As a special education teacher is it your responsibility to provide accommodations and modifications? What is the difference between an accommodation and modification? Knowing the answers to these questions is very important if you work with students who have individualized education programs (IEP). The majority of due process cases filed across the country stem from educators not knowing the right answers to these questions. Participants will leave this workshop with the knowledge and tools to answer these questions and many more.

Speakers

Shelley Kenow

Founder and CEO, Shelley Kenow Education Consultant

Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Pinehurst

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

**FEATURED SPEAKER** - Small Tweaks, Big Impact

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

Mallard

As we reimagine mathematics classrooms, many innovative teaching practices have emerged. In this session we’ll parse out why some of these fail and how to support teachers in making the shift to focus on students. Understanding the ways teachers are misunderstanding key instructional practices can help you leverage them to result in greater student outcomes.

Speakers

Pamela Harris

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Mallard

**FEATURED SPEAKER**, Instruction

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience Administrators
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

Everyday IAR: Proactive Prep, NOT an Extra Step

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

Illinois Assessment of Readiness: three words that bring anxiety and stress to many educators. What if you were given the resources to develop formative and summative assessments that mirror IAR? We will discuss how you can incorporate IAR-style assessments into your curriculum throughout the year so you can avoid the IAR prep that is crammed into the months of February and March.

Speakers

Elizabeth Hand

Instructional Coach, Rockford Public School District #205

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Torrey Pines

Assessment, Cross Curricular

Grade Level Elementary School (K-6)
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

Reset, Connect, Restore, and Return: Reducing Office Referrals. Taking Restorative Practices into School Wide Procedures

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

Doral

Summit Academy unveils our groundbreaking reset program, revolutionizing student support. Our three-step approach to restorative procedures goes beyond reducing office referrals; (in 2024 Summit reduced its office referrals by 67%!) it embodies the core mission of our region's largest safe school. Through Reset, Connect, Restore, and Return, we foster a culture of empathy, accountability, and growth. Attendees will discover 10 actionable strategies for implementing restorative practices effectively, nurturing positive relationships, and empowering students to take ownership of their actions. Learn how our program not only addresses behavioral issues but also cultivates a supportive environment where every student thrives academically and emotionally. Be part of the movement reshaping education and join us in unlocking the full potential of every learner. Together, let's reset the trajectory of student achievement.

Speakers

Paul Cassioppi

Brandon Rogers

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Doral

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

Get 'em to the Green

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

This session will cover methods, assessments, and interventions to guarantee growth for all students. We will share systems to ensure success in ACT/SAT, AP, vertically aligned classroom instruction, and more.

Speakers

Anna Jakubowski

English Department Co-Ordinator, Westmont High School

Hi! My name is Anna! I am the English department coordinator at Westmont High School. I am also the building instructional coach. I have been teaching for about 15 years. My favorite grade level to teach is sophomore English. The best part of my job is working with students and building... Read More →

Brian Roach

English Department Teacher

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Ballroom G-H

Data, Reading/Language Arts

Grade Level High School (9-12)
Audience Teachers
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

Shifting from the RTI to MTSS Process: A District View

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

There are many considerations that need to be made making the shift from RTI to MTSS for a K-12 district. The biggest factor to ensure continued success is to establish a team to help manage and evaluate the implementation process. Session will focus on how to create the best team at all levels and to continue to evaluate your implementation process through your team data meetings.

Speakers

Kelly Borkgren

Elementary MTSS Coordinator

Kelsey Dielfield

JH-HS MTSS Coordinator, ROWVA Junior-Senior High School

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Ballroom C-D

Data, MTSS

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

Designing Autonomy: Building a Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum (GVC) for Student-Led Learning

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

Ballroom E

This interactive breakout session is designed for educators who aim to empower their students through the development of a Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum (GVC) that promotes self-directed learning. Participants will delve into the core principles of a GVC and learn how to construct a curriculum framework that is both rigorous and flexible enough to adapt to diverse learning styles and needs. The workshop will provide practical tools and strategies for creating curricular units that encourage students to take initiative, make decisions, and drive their own learning processes. Through collaborative activities and expert-led discussions, attendees will leave with actionable insights on how to craft educational experiences that foster independence, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning. Join us to transform your educational approach and inspire your students to become proactive learners!

Speakers

Steve Oertle

Assistant Superintendent, Roxana CUSD #1

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Ballroom E

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

Standards-Based Literacy Instruction That Improves Student Outcomes

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

The Common Core State Standards provide us with clear student learning goals for each grade level, but what is instruction actually supposed to look like to realize those goals? Many educators and school districts assume that practicing the discrete skills outlined in the standards such as finding the main idea and determining cause and effect are what the authors of the CCSS had in mind. However, the authors actually wrote that “the standards themselves are not the goal of daily instruction; understanding the texts encountered and being able to express that understanding is.” This session will discuss the research and associated instructional practices one district used to significantly improve student literacy outcomes.

Speakers

Ben Zulauf

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Sugar Maple

Grade Level Elementary School (K-6)
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

100% Responsive: Strategies for Universal Participation

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

Salt Creek

"100% Responsive" is a dynamic workshop-style session tailored for educators seeking innovative strategies that actively engage all students in the learning process. Participants will discover and practice practical methods to encourage student dialogue, critical thinking, and collaboration, reducing teacher talk time and empowering students to shoulder the cognitive load of their own learning. From interactive partnered activities to individual response cards, attendees will explore a range of tools designed to elicit contributions from every student, regardless of current performance or confidence. By implementing these proven strategies, educators can create a more equitable and enriching learning experience where every voice is valued and every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Speakers

Jacqie Strauch

Alina Morelli Baima

Director of Education & Professional Learning

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Salt Creek

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

Empowering Teens through Teen Science Cafe Leadership

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

Pinehurst

Educators will learn how to establish Teen Science Cafés in their educational settings - empowering teens to manage their own events. Teen Sceince Cafés are designed BY TEENS FOR TEENS – teens select the topics, locate speakers, vet the speakers, develop a related activity, and manage the actual event. Under the supervision of adult leaders, teens develop their own scripts, manage the sign-in, provide the introductions and more. Educators will learn how they can develop partnerships with a local non-profit to share the responsibility of guiding teens. Through their leadership, teens develop several of the 40 Developmental Assets.
Participants will be connected with the Teen Science Cafe Network (TSCN) that provides guidelines/best practices to utilize immediately in their own settings.

Speakers

Dr. Judith Dymond

Dr. Judith Dymond is a retired NIU STEAM Educator who connected the university to the community through adult and teen science cafés. Prior to her time at NIU, Judith worked as a K-12 administrator in Wisconsin, Ohio, and Illinois and taught middle and high school English, reading... Read More →

Ed.D.

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Pinehurst

Grade Level High School (9-12)
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

Making Magic In STEAM

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

Monarch

Spend 60 minutes being inspired by different projects and immersive experiences that the Waltham STEAM teachers create. Get ready for a hands-on, high energy environment that will make you excited to try in your classroom!

STEAM teaches all K-8 students so there is something for everyone! From basic blueprints and building to large outdoor holiday decor created by middle school students. Come join the magic!

Speakers

Nina Mitchell

Instructional Coach

Brittany Nicole Culjan

STEAM Teacher, Waltham Elementary School

Hi Everyone 👋 I'm Brittany- an I'm a mother of 3 and a STEM teacher. A bit about me. I LOVE being outdoors and learning all about it. Big fan of cooking and baking. I'd like to think I'm Ms. Fizzle come to life. Come join Nina and I for a STEAM session that you won't forget!Yours... Read More →

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Monarch

Student Engagement, STEAM

Grade Level All Grade Levels
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

Summer Learning Opportunities that students are actually excited about participating in!!

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST

Augusta

Learn how our school district has provided summer learning opportunities for students and see how the program has continued to grow each year. Our school district offers summer enrichment classes for one week at the beginning of June. Approximately 150 students participate in this learning opportunity. We also offer one day trips for students. These trips are offered throughout the summer and provide opportunities for our students to experience several local and not so local attractions.

Speakers

Kathleen Schipper

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Augusta

Grade Level Intermediate (4-6)
Audience All Positions
Do Participants Need to Bring... No

2:30pm CST

The Power of the Opener: Engaging Teams, Tearing Down Walls, & Creating a Sense of Community within Minutes

Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST