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strong>Climate/Classroom Management [clear filter]
Monday, December 9
 

9:30am CST

Commitments for Authentic, Positive and Caring Teachers
Monday December 9, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Torrey Pines
Feedback Survey
In the spirit of the classic Choose Your Own Adventure series, this will be an interactive session with participants having an opportunity to select educator commitments that they would like to learn most about. This session will expose you to a variety of authors' best practices and fundamentals, particularly in the areas of communication, relationships, and critical thinking. Participants will leave the session with awareness of daily techniques that if implemented in earnest, will improve and strengthen your current environment whether it be a classroom, department, or school; students will grow and staff will feel empowered and valued.
Speakers
avatar for Kari Keith

Kari Keith

Director of Multilingual Programs, Palatine 15
As an educational leader and a mother, I am curious and interested in inclusive leadership practices that transform lives for the better.  In particular, I really enjoy hearing about multilingual leadership and educational pathways, especially from colleagues and students whose family... Read More →
SK
Monday December 9, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Torrey Pines
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

9:30am CST

Navigating Tensions: A Guide to De-Escalation
Monday December 9, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Pebble Beach
Feedback Survey
In this workshop, participants will learn practical strategies and insightful approaches aimed at diffusing heightened situations and fostering a sense of calm in interpersonal dynamics. Explore proven techniques for effective communication, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence, equipping yourself with valuable skills to navigate challenging moments for better outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Roselene Quick

Roselene Quick

Director of School Services - ROE #12, Regional Office of Education #12
Monday December 9, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Pebble Beach
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

9:30am CST

The Surprising Power of Belonging in Schools
Monday December 9, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Cardinal
Feedback Survey
A sense of belonging within a school community is perhaps our most powerful tool to promote not only student well being and resilience but to enhance student academic engagement. A sense of belonging is associated with higher academic achievement, better attendance, improved behavior, and reductions in mental health problems, among many other benefits. Unfortunately, there is a crisis of belonging in our schools. Drawing upon research from brain science, social sciences, education and 30 years of practice within schools, this session will help participants uncover the positive impact of a belonging community on students and staff, discuss factors that threaten a student's sense of belonging and provide strategies that can be implemented immediately to create a belonging community in our classrooms and in our schools.
Speakers
DB

Doug Bolton

Director of School Consultation
Monday December 9, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Cardinal
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

10:45am CST

Meeting in the Middle: A Powerful Approach to Behavior
Monday December 9, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Pinehurst
Feedback Survey
Pleasant Valley, an urban district with 95% poverty, has reduced its office referrals and suspensions by over half through a robust SEL approach, a fidelity culture, district wide procedures, and raising their behavior expectations for students and parents. All of which have contributed to improved climate, classroom management, and student achievement. Participants will understand how to implement this behavior blueprint to make cultural shifts and improve student relationships regardless of school size or obstacles.
Speakers
TF

Tracy Forck

Superintendent
RH

Raeleen Hart

Behavior Consultant
Monday December 9, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Pinehurst
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

10:45am CST

Self Care - A Realistic and Systematic Plan for Putting Your Oxygen Mask on First
Monday December 9, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Torrey Pines
Feedback Survey
Self Care is a word that is heard often. We are told to practice self care, take care of ourselves, put your oxygen mask on before you help others but what does that really look like? As educators we naturally give and take care of others before we take care of ourselves, how can we fix that? Our building principal and social worker worked together using a variety of resources to put together a year long plan focusing each month on a self care habit. These habits are applicable to the adults in your system but also applicable to the youngest students. Learn more about his process and plan and take away ideas that you can implement to incorporate these habits of self care into your classroom and building.
Speakers
LC
ER

Emilie Ruppert

Social Worker
Monday December 9, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Torrey Pines
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

12:00pm CST

A Plan for Social Emotional Regulation
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Torrey Pines
Feedback Survey
As we looked to increase academic rigor in our school we realized that many students struggled with self regulation when confronted with a difficult or rigorous task. Our School Improvement Leadership Team utilized the Cycles of Inquiry process to develop a systematic plan to track emotional responses and then provide consistent strategies to empower students to self regulate. Learn more about our process and the self regulation strategies that students learned in this process.
Speakers
LC
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Torrey Pines
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

12:00pm CST

Empowering All Learners: Student Success Through Gender Equity
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Oak Brook
Feedback Survey
In this session, participants will explore the concept of gender bias, and how identifying it can help to enhance the climate and culture in their classrooms. Participants will learn how understanding gender bias can increase student engagement and success while improving relationships throughout the school.
Speakers
avatar for Peter Cunningham

Peter Cunningham

Director of Instruction and Personnel, Diamond Lake SD 76
EB

Erica Berger

Director of Engagement and Growth
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Oak Brook
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

12:00pm CST

Home Court Advantage: Turning Your Classroom into Their Stadium
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Ballroom E
Feedback Survey
Just as sports teams tend to perform better when they play at home, our students excel when they are in a comfortable classroom where they feel safe and encouraged. In this interactive session, participants will experience several activities that they can take back to their classrooms to help establish their own home court advantage. Building relationships is imperative, so we offer strategies to use not just in August but throughout the year to maintain the levels of excitement that sports fans feel when cheering on their favorite teams.
Speakers
KM
KH
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Ballroom E
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

12:00pm CST

How Creating and Implementing an Alternative Discipline Framework Leads to Raised Student Engagement and Achievement
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Doral
Feedback Survey
As educators, we are often adept at identifying and then filling in the specific academic skills impeding a student’s ability to succeed in a content area; however when it comes to behaviors, our focus often shifts from a student demonstrating gaps in learning based on the absence of a specific skills to punishment or exclusion. This session will focus on how to create and implement an alternative discipline framework that puts learning at the center by matching restorative, reflective and instructional consequences to infractions and focusing on learning and developing SEL competencies while focusing on the learning that needs to take place to change the demonstrated behavior. Participants will engage in deep reflection of their current systems and how they support or inhibit student learning and walk away with a new approach to classroom and school based behavior management which will lead to increased student achievement. Participants will identify the SEL skills needed to address the presenting behaviors and walk away with multiple plans, forms and templates to address different frequent types of behavior incidents that impede access to ongoing academic learning. You will feel empowered with the extensive resources provided as examples and strategies that can be utilized for multiple types of behavior incidents impeding focus on academic learning. You’ll find you have much more time to teach after this session and your students will be able to learn!
Speakers
avatar for Elsie Lagunas

Elsie Lagunas

Student Advocate Support Specialist, North Cook ISC
AS
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Doral
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

12:00pm CST

Playful Practices: Exploring Social Emotional Learning Through Games and Activities
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Western Springs
Feedback Survey
** Open House Format ** Spend time in this session exploring a variety of social emotional learning games and mindful activities - HANDS ON! Play, explore, experiment with these SEL games and mindful activities in real time to get ideas for your classroom. Resources featured include: Breaking Barriers Down, Icebreaker Linemaker, Connect More, Head Rush, You Know, Ouisi, Mindfulness Matters, Rory’s Story Cubes, Hygge Game. Additionally, a variety of mindful activities will be showcased for educators to practice in real time and take back to their classrooms. Register to WIN - One complete set of the resources will be given away in a raffle drawing!
Speakers
MC

Michelle Coconate

Director of Social Emotional Support Services, Peoria County ROE #48
EK
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Western Springs
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

12:00pm CST

The Journey of Systemic Implementation of SEL in Rural Education
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
White Oak
Feedback Survey
This workshop will cover two different approaches to coaching for systemic SEL in rural school districts. Discussions will include SEL coaching, data-driven school improvement plans, and ongoing professional learning. Participants will receive a customized scope and sequence to support educator and student SEL.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Donaldson

Jessica Donaldson

Professional Learning Specialist, Regional Office of Education #33
Jessica Donaldson serves as a Behavioral Health Consultant at Regional Office of Education #33 with over 15 years of extensive experience in Behavioral Health. Her expertise lies in bridging the gap between behavioral health and education through comprehensive training, coaching... Read More →
CN
Monday December 9, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
White Oak
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

1:15pm CST

Climate Before Content
Monday December 9, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Ballroom C-D
Feedback Survey
Discover the essential building blocks for fostering a positive classroom climate in this interactive breakout session. Explore how intentional relationship-building, community-building activities, and social-emotional learning strategies lay the groundwork for effective tier one instruction. Learn practical techniques to establish a safe, inclusive environment where students feel valued and supported, enabling them to engage fully in learning. Unlock the keys to creating a classroom culture where every student can thrive, setting the stage for academic success.
Speakers
EH

Elizabeth Hand

Instructional Coach, Rockford Public School District #205
Monday December 9, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Ballroom C-D
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

1:15pm CST

Give Me a Break: Creating a Kinesthetic Classroom Climate
Monday December 9, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Cardinal
Feedback Survey
Are you looking for strategies to improve student focus, supplement class instruction, and boost test scores? This session offers instructional tips for incorporating physical activity into the classroom. Learn how to integrate brain breaks and energize your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Tammy Schiek

Tammy Schiek

Associate Professor, Rockford University
Monday December 9, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Cardinal
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

1:15pm CST

Half-Marathon Management: 13.1 Lessons for School Leaders to Empower Staff to Uncover the Unique Individuality of ALL Students to Best Connect, Reach, & Teach Them for a Lifetime of Success
Monday December 9, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Ballroom A-B
Feedback Survey
Michael Earnshaw, South Cook IL. 2023 Elementary Principal of the Year, will guide and pace attendees through a half-marathon’s worth of lessons, tips, and strategies to not only make them more comfortable taking risks, collaborating, and getting out of their comfort zones, but also reaching and building positive relationships with EVERY student that is in their school. Through honest & personal storytelling, Michael will engage attendees & share simple, practical, yet powerful techniques to improve school and classroom culture. Michael’s activities and stories focus on empowering our staff to know that every school year is different, just as every half-marathon is, but with the proper training and understanding of all the different facets and obstacles we may face, we can always be a positive influence in those we serve and finish our race, together. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of their own strengths and how they can best serve their staff, students, and community.
Speakers
avatar for Michael Earnshaw

Michael Earnshaw

Principal, Oak Glen Elementary School - Lansing SD 158
Michael Earnshaw is a father, husband, and elementary school principal. He is the author of The EduCulture Cookbook: Recipes and Dishes to Positively Transform School and Classroom Culture with EduMatch Publishing and co-host of the Punk Rock Classrooms Podcast. Michael strives to... Read More →
Monday December 9, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Ballroom A-B
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

1:15pm CST

Human Elements: Honoring the Humanity of Humans
Monday December 9, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
La Grange
Feedback Survey
What is it that ties people together? Join the conversation as we take a look at the abundant ideas around what makes humans care about one another, what inspires them, and how our own humanity drives us to seek happiness, purpose, and bonds. Whether we are considering Sheryl Sandberg, Simon Sinek, Dalia Feldheim, Daniel Coyle, Liz Wiseman, or Shawn Achor, it all comes down to the human elements, really.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. April D. Jordan

Dr. April D. Jordan

Executive Director
Monday December 9, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
La Grange
  Climate/Classroom Management, Culture & Climate

2:30pm CST

"Building Bridges: Cultivating Student Collaboration for Classroom Success"
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Sugar Maple
Feedback Survey
This Professional Learning course will ignite your classroom with the power of student collaboration. Dive into strategies that transform your classroom into a hub of student-led learning using cutting-edge, research-based methods. Discover the magic of collaborative learning, with engaging activities that foster a cooperative spirit and teach students to communicate effectively. This interactive session will arm you with practical, ready-to-use tools to bring back to your classroom. Aligned with the Danielson Framework, this course will empower you to inspire your students to take charge of their own learning journey. Get ready to revolutionize your teaching and see your students thrive like never before!
Speakers
KT
KS
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Sugar Maple
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

2:30pm CST

A Classroom in Chaos: Strategies for Supporting Student Mental Health
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Pinehurst
Feedback Survey
The goal of this collaborative presentation is important to the field in its
connection with supporting both general education and special education
teachers, support staff, and leadership. Placing focus on navigating mental
health within tiers, responding to challenging behaviors, intervention
implementation, and an exemplar process of mental health crisis
management. The outcomes of this presentation will
be to understand the importance of mental health in schools, implement
interventions and strategies for supporting students with mental health
needs, and responding effectively to students in crisis. The benefits of this
presentation will provide educators with the knowledge and skills they need
to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. The
practices will improve student performance by staff accurately determining
mental health interventions for internalizing and externalizing students. As
well as, utilizing data and an effective crisis management process
throughout your building(s).
Speakers
MW
ML
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Pinehurst
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

2:30pm CST

Building UPward: Supporting SEL for Educators
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Monarch
Feedback Survey
Join this session to explore the ways that Grant Community High School District 124 supports staff SEL. During the session we will dive into the importance and impact of holding space for educators to process the often emotional realities of working and growing in this profession. This content applies to educators at any stage of their career, from first year to retirement, in any role in the school. Our instructional coaches’ will share their approach to ongoing PD for staff using a variety of curated resources from experts like Elena Aguilar, Tina Boogren, and Jennifer Abrams. Attendees will leave with examples of activities and discussions, as well as a frame for designing your own version tailored to your school’s adult SEL needs.
Speakers
VS

Vicki Shifley

Instructional Coach, Grant Community High School District 124
TC

Trisha Crambes

Instructional Coach
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Monarch
  Climate/Classroom Management, Coaching/PD

2:30pm CST

If you take care of the teachers, they will take care of the students!
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Westmont
Feedback Survey
When teachers are supported, students flourish. Our proposal prioritizes the well-being of educators, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping young minds. By providing comprehensive support programs, including physical and mental health resources, we ensure teachers are equipped to create nurturing learning environments. Continuous professional development opportunities empower educators to refine their skills and stay abreast of best practices. Competitive compensation and supportive work environments bolster teacher retention, fostering stability within schools. Involving teachers in decision-making processes cultivates a culture of collaboration and innovation. When teachers feel valued and supported, they are better positioned to inspire, guide, and nurture the growth of their students. Thus, investing in teachers is not only an investment in their well-being but also in the holistic success and flourishing of every student they serve.

​​Join me in a workshop where we delve into the powerful connection between teacher well-being and student success. Our theme, "If You Take Care of the Teachers, They Will Take Care of the Students," highlights the pivotal role educators play in shaping student outcomes. Through interactive sessions and expert insights, discover practical strategies for supporting teacher growth and empowerment. Gain valuable tools to foster a positive learning environment where both teachers and students thrive. Don't miss this opportunity to make a real impact in education. Register now to secure your spot!
Speakers
avatar for Vicki Brown

Vicki Brown

Proud Principal, South Shore Fine Arts Academy
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Westmont
  Climate/Classroom Management, Teacher Retention

2:30pm CST

Punk Rock Principalship: Creating Positve School Culture, Building Teacher Leaders, and Fostering Life Long Learning through Risk Taking, Collaboration, and Relationships
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Ballroom A-B
Feedback Survey
Michael Earnshaw, South Cook IL. 2023 Elementary Principal of the Year, has hands-on experience with creating a positive, collaborative, & trusting school culture. During this session, attendees will discover the importance of reflecting on their own lives which have driven them to become educators. Through honest & personal storytelling, Michael will engage attendees & share simple, practical, yet powerful techniques to improve school culture. Attendees will leave armed with activities that can be implemented tomorrow! Michael’s activities focus on empowering our students to know their voices need to be heard & that they have the power to change our world for the better. Michael shares how leading with a Punk Rock Mindset, Passion, Unity, & DIY (Do it Yourself) ethos will drive both staff & students to reach their full potential. Attendees will leave equipped to implement collaborative, engaging, & deep learning activities such as Speed Dating, Struggle Island, & Flippin' Flapjacks.
Speakers
avatar for Michael Earnshaw

Michael Earnshaw

Principal, Oak Glen Elementary School - Lansing SD 158
Michael Earnshaw is a father, husband, and elementary school principal. He is the author of The EduCulture Cookbook: Recipes and Dishes to Positively Transform School and Classroom Culture with EduMatch Publishing and co-host of the Punk Rock Classrooms Podcast. Michael strives to... Read More →
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Ballroom A-B
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

2:30pm CST

School Reimagined: Building a Culture of Kindness, Patience, and Empathy
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Doral
Feedback Survey
The expression of kindness, patience, and empathy by teachers can profoundly impact student outcomes and overall classroom dynamics and combat the myriad of challenges present in our schools. This session will provide educators with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to harness the power of kindness, patience, and empathy in their teaching practices. Supported by MTSS data, the presenters will detail the positive impact these strategies have on student growth.

By the end of this session, participants will understand the framework that supports the positive impact of kindness, patience, and empathy on student engagement, motivation, and academic performance. Participants will discover effective communication techniques, including active listening, so that they approach disciplinary issues and challenging conversations in a way that prioritizes kindness, patience, and empathy in school culture.

Throughout the session, participants will engage in practical activities, group discussions, and self-reflective exercises that promote an experiential learning approach. They will leave with a toolkit that empowers them to integrate kindness, patience, and empathy into their teaching practices in an effort to drive school improvement.

This session is designed for educators at all levels, as well as educational administrators and support staff. This inspiring and transformative session will equip educators with the tools and knowledge needed to cultivate a kinder, more patient, and empathetic educational experience that benefits students and educators alike. Kindness, patience, and empathy are essential pillars of an effective culture that drives educational improvement.
Speakers
NP
RB
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Doral
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

2:30pm CST

The Culture of Me: Failing Forwards to Find Our We
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Cardinal
Feedback Survey
This presentation will review how education and our society has moved from a “we” ideology to a “me” focus. From tracing the words, we use, actions of schools, and historical antidotes the audience will gain a sense of how far from community we have come. By using my journey as a first-year principal in the COVID era and being candid about grief, depression, anxiety, imposter syndrome, humor, love, embracing the chaos, contact tracing, trauma, building student self-esteem, and the triumph of students, the audience will learn how to build a school based “we” that fosters finding peace within themselves and how that builds a better school and fosters community. The audience will leave with the understanding that they too can foster their own “we” by looking deep into their “me”. If someone in the audience has considered their “why” from a perspective of anxiety, stress, or even contemplated leaving the field, but retains the resolve to remain in education – this presentation will provide them with the insight and tools to sustain their energy and mental health to do the work, and to share what they have learned with others. So that our “we” can support and retain “me”.
Speakers
JB
Monday December 9, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Cardinal
  Climate/Classroom Management, Culture & Climate
 
Tuesday, December 10
 

9:30am CST

"Empathy in Action: Nurturing Social-Emotional Skills for Student and Staff Success"
Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Doral
Feedback Survey
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
SP

Susan Parker

School Counselor
Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Doral
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

9:30am CST

From Assets to A's: Elevating Student Achievement through Asset-Based Learning
Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Pebble Beach
Feedback Survey
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
JM

Jamie Morgan

Manager of Customer Success
Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Pebble Beach
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

9:30am CST

Growing Trust-building Leadership Habits: The School-wide Impact
Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
White Oak
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for ANGIE CODRON

ANGIE CODRON

Principal
SC

Sarah Crowder

Principal
Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
White Oak
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

9:30am CST

Turning Challenges into Growth: Building a Positive Mindset for Educators
Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Torrey Pines
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for Tim Damery

Tim Damery

Principal, Metamora Grade School
Tuesday December 10, 2024 9:30am - 10:30am CST
Torrey Pines
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

10:45am CST

Creating a Culture of C.A.R.E.
Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Salt Creek
Feedback Survey
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
LA
Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Salt Creek
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

10:45am CST

Start Strong to Stay Strong!
Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Torrey Pines
Feedback Survey
"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
EH

Elizabeth Hand

Instructional Coach, Rockford Public School District #205
ES
Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
Torrey Pines
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

10:45am CST

Trauma Informed De-Escalation
Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
White Oak
Feedback Survey
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
JM
Tuesday December 10, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CST
White Oak
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

12:00pm CST

Developing Meaningful Relationships with Parents of Neurodiverse Students
Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Pinehurst
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for Shelley Kenow

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
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

12:00pm CST

Leading with Trust: Building a United Administrative Team
Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Torrey Pines
Feedback Survey
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
JS

Jessica Sonntag

Superintendent
KT

Kim Torman

Principal
Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Torrey Pines
  Climate/Classroom Management, Leadership

12:00pm CST

Trauma-Informed Restorative Practices
Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
White Oak
Feedback Survey
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
JM
Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
White Oak
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

12:00pm CST

Understanding classroom disruptive behaviors: Breaking the cycle
Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Sugar Maple
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for Christina Moran Happ

Christina Moran Happ

Behavior Anaylist, Knox Warren Special Education
Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Sugar Maple
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

12:00pm CST

Words Matter: Building Relationship Through Building Relationships
Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Heron
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for Ben Mooney

Ben Mooney

Assistant Principal
avatar for Sally Timm
Tuesday December 10, 2024 12:00pm - 1:00pm CST
Heron
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

1:15pm CST

5 Essentials // What, Where, When, Who, Why, and How You can Use it to Change Your Schools Culture from the Ground Up
Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Doral
Feedback Survey
In our session, participants will learn what the 5 Essentials Survey is, and how it can be used to positively influence school culture, student achievement, collaborative efforts, parent/community contact, and quality of leadership. The 5 Essentials is a highly dynamic tool, and you are going to hear a variety of strategies 2 building principals and teacher-leaders have used to drive school improvement in the Moline Coal Valley School District.
Speakers
GP

Grant Putnam

Principal // Franklin Elementary School, Moline,IL
avatar for Lynsy Oswald

Lynsy Oswald

Principal, Hamilton Elementary School
Lynsy Oswald is a Principal at Hamilton Elementary School for the Moline-Coal Valley School District. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Psychology from the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay in 2005 where she played Division 1 College Softball. Lynsy... Read More →
Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Doral
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

1:15pm CST

Everyday SEL for the Classroom
Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Augusta
Feedback Survey
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
LS

Laura Steiner

social worker
KK
Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Augusta
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

1:15pm CST

Relationships First: Academic and Social-Emotional Success in the Multilingual & Multicultural Classroom.
Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Torrey Pines
Feedback Survey
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
MB

María Barragán Ortiz

PhD Researcher / Instructional Coach
Tuesday December 10, 2024 1:15pm - 2:15pm CST
Torrey Pines
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular

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
Feedback Survey
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
PC
BR
Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Doral
  Climate/Classroom Management, SEL

2:30pm CST

Tackling the Other Side of the Triangle- Our Quest to Address Student Behavior and Attendance Challenges
Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Heron
Feedback Survey
This presentation will explore our journey at Olympia Middle School as we examined the critical link between student attendance, positive discipline practices, and a successful learning environment. By fostering high attendance rates and implementing effective discipline strategies that focus on restorative practices, schools can create an atmosphere conducive to academic achievement and social-emotional well-being. This presentation will address the challenges faced in both areas and offer practical strategies for teachers, counselor, and administrators who are invested in improving student outcomes.
Speakers
MJ

Mike Jones

Principal
BL

Becky Leenerman

School Counselor, Olympia Middle School
Tuesday December 10, 2024 2:30pm - 3:30pm CST
Heron
  Climate/Classroom Management, Cross Curricular
 
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