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ENGAGE Learning Conference 2025
Tuesday, June 17
 

7:30am CDT

ENGAGE Registration - Tuesday, June 17th
Tuesday June 17, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Tuesday June 17, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Main Lobby

8:30am CDT

ENGAGE Opening Session - Dr. Liz Huntley
Tuesday June 17, 2025 8:30am - 11:00am CDT
Join us for the inspiring opening session of the ENGAGE Conference on Tuesday as we welcome keynote speaker Dr. Liz Huntley, a committed child advocate, accomplished litigation attorney, and president of The Hope Institute. Dr. Huntley will share her powerful personal story of overcoming childhood adversity and the transformative role educators played in her journey. Her message is a moving reminder of the impact schools can have in shaping lives and cultivating cultures of character. Following her keynote, Dr. Huntley will participate in a fireside chat with Holly Martin, Staff Development Specialist for Mountain Brook Schools. Together, they will explore the pressing challenges educators face in building schools of character in a rapidly evolving digital world influenced by emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. This session promises to uplift, challenge, and spark meaningful dialogue as we kick off a week of growth and connection. Don’t miss this unforgettable start to ENGAGE!
Tuesday June 17, 2025 8:30am - 11:00am CDT
Fine Arts Center

11:00am CDT

Lunch Session
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Take a break, grab a (free!) lunch, and enjoy some time to relax and recharge during our ENGAGE Conference lunch session. This midday gathering is the perfect opportunity to connect with colleagues, spark new ideas through casual conversation, and expand your professional network. You'll also hear brief remarks from our generous conference sponsors who help make this event possible. And don’t rush off—door prizes will be up for grabs, so you just might head back to your next session with a little something extra! Whether you're meeting someone new or catching up with a longtime friend, this lunch is all about good food, great company, and a little fun along the way.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Gym

11:45am CDT

Comprehensive Strategies for World Language Success (Grades 6-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
This session will explore inclusive, proficiency-focused strategies that support diverse learners in reaching the Seal of Biliteracy. World language educators play a critical role in helping provide access and instruction to help students achieve biliteracy.  Participants will learn how to implement differentiated instruction, scaffolding techniques, and immersive language experiences to meet varying proficiency levels. Attendees will also discuss the use of authentic cultural materials, real-world communication tasks, and language practice opportunities beyond the classroom, such as clubs and exchange programs. Additionally, attendees will gain insights into using formative assessments and personalized feedback to guide students toward proficiency while fostering a growth mindset. Join us to discover practical approaches for creating an engaging and supportive classroom that empowers all students on their path to biliteracy.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 101

11:45am CDT

Curiosity: The Engine of CHANGE (Grades K - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
The Question Formulation Technique (QFT)  was created by the Right Question Institute with the goal of building students' curiosity about the world and providing them the opportunity to ask questions. Attendees will experience the QFT process and discover ways to bring the QFT back to their classroom and further promote curiosity.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 107

11:45am CDT

Ditch the Bullhorn: Transforming Parent Engagement with ParentSquare! (Grades K-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Communicating with parents can feel like shouting through a bullhorn—loud, one-sided, and often lost in the noise. Today, we have the opportunity to trade that bullhorn for a smartphone, utilizing ParentSquare to foster meaningful, two-way communication. This professional development session will equip educators with the skills to leverage ParentSquare, transforming how we connect with families and engage them in their children’s education.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 208

11:45am CDT

If You Feed Them, They Will Come: Ways to Build Engagement in a Middle School Library (Grades 6-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Join us for an inspiring session where members of a Student Library Advisory panel will share firsthand experiences in leveraging student input to design engaging events and initiatives that resonate with peers. Discover how young leaders have transformed ideas into impactful opportunities for student involvement within the library. Participants will leave with a wealth of creative ideas for community-building events, specifically tailored for middle school and high school libraries, to foster a vibrant and inclusive environment for all students.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Library

11:45am CDT

Making Core Memories at School (Grades K - 5)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Educators will explore strategies to create engaging and impactful learning experiences that resonate with students long after they leave the classroom. The session will cover various methods to incorporate storytelling, hands-on activities, and emotional connections into lesson plans. By focusing on students' emotional engagement and personal connections to the material, teachers can create enduring memories that enhance learning. This session will equip educators with the tools needed to inspire students and help them retain knowledge in a meaningful way. Ultimately, the goal is to transform everyday lessons into extraordinary experiences that contribute to students' growth and development.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 221

11:45am CDT

Setting The Foundation: Strategies for Tier 1 Behavior Supports (Grades K-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
In this session, we will dive into Tier 1 positive behavior supports to set our students up for success. During this session, attendees will identify and discuss the key components of Tier 1 behavior supports and how to effectively implement each in the classroom setting. Attendees will leave with an understanding of Tier 1 behavior strategies and progress monitoring to foster a positive learning environment for all students.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 114

11:45am CDT

Teaching As a Parallel To Coaching (Grades K-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
This session will engage participants in an analysis of the parallel between classroom instruction and athletic coaching. We will examine the practices of championship coaches and athletes and compare those to teacher and student practices in successful academic arenas.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 118

11:45am CDT

Tell Your Story or Someone Else Will! The Importance of Developing and Communicating Your School’s Brand (Grades 6 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Holly Pond High School is in a completely different place than it was just a few short years ago.  Our community did not feel welcomed, long standing traditions were being removed, and there was not a sense of pride in our brand anymore.  With hard work and dedication our team at HPHS have turned the ship a complete 180 and now community involvement, traditions, and a undeniable brand are now strong points within our school. Our story is not isolated but will no longer go untold as we unpack the importance of communication and shared ownership when developing a brand and telling your story.  

Research has proven that students who feel a sense of belonging in the learning environment will historically perform better then those who do not. That thought, along with a drastic need in improved teacher morale, is what lead us to the steps that we implemented (and are still implementing) in order to give our students the best education possible. Join us as we share our story and show you why everyday is A GREAT DAY TO BE A BRONCO!!
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 218

11:45am CDT

Effective Grading Practices: Taking Grade Inflation Out of MTSS (Grades 3-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
This professional development session aims to enhance educators' understanding and implementation of grading practices as effective communication and engagement tools for all stakeholders. Participants will delve into the MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) framework and explore practical strategies to identify and address barriers that may hinder student success.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Band Room

11:45am CDT

Emerging Technology Tools for Educators (Grades K-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Join this session for an immersive exploration of cutting-edge educational technology tools reshaping K-12 classrooms in 2025. This dynamic session empowers educators to leverage emerging technologies effectively while enhancing student engagement and learning outcomes.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Incubator (TECH)

11:45am CDT

Engagement Strategies: Help Hook Students into Learning (Grades 6 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT

Discover powerful engagement strategies that captivate students and ignite a love for learning! This session explores research-based techniques from Marzano’s "The New Art and Science of Teaching" and Weston Kieschnick’s "ATLAS", providing practical ways to create dynamic, student-centered learning experiences. Walk away with strategies you can immediately implement to boost participation and deepen student understanding.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 206

11:45am CDT

Engagement: More than an Educational Buzzword (Grades 6 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Are you looking for engaged students but not sure how to get there--or what that even means? Participants in this session will define several facets of student engagement and add research-based strategies to their toolbox to increase engagement in their classrooms and schools. Leave with practical ideas to implement immediately.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 204

11:45am CDT

It's a Jungle Out There: Turning Liabilities Into Assets (K - 12) - 2 Hours
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 1:40pm CDT
Great leadership is built on resilience and adaptability—the ability to persevere through challenges and embrace change with confidence. This session explores how leaders cultivate these qualities to navigate uncertainty and drive success.  Beyond personal strength, leadership also requires collaboration and courage. Participants will discuss how fostering teamwork and taking bold risks are essential to inspiring and empowering others. True leadership is not about going it alone but about lifting others up and creating an environment where innovation and trust thrive. Through engaging discussions, real-world examples, and insight from a recent trip to South Africa, the session will equip attendees with the mindset and tools to lead effectively in a fast-changing world. Its a jungle out there and we are here to give strategies to help navigate it.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 1:40pm CDT
Room 111

11:45am CDT

Youth Mental Health First Aid (Grades k-12) 2 Hours
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 1:40pm CDT
Mental Health First Aid is a skills-based training course that teaches participants to identify, understand and respond to mental health and substance use challenges. This training gives educators the skills they need to reach out and provide initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health, a substance use problem, or experiencing a crisis.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 11:45am - 1:40pm CDT
Room 207

12:45pm CDT

Does Building Community Really Work in a Secondary Setting? (Grades 6-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Designed for secondary teachers, this session explores the impact of building a positive classroom community and how it fosters student success. Through interactive discussions, participants will examine strategies for creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment that leads to meaningful student outcomes. Insights will be drawn from real-world experiences to illustrate the transformative power of connection in the classroom.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 201

12:45pm CDT

Teaching Modern Teenagers (Grades K-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Presenting on ways that we, as educators, can better understand the changing landscape of education.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 116

12:45pm CDT

All Thing AI - Fighting Teacher Burnout (Grades 3 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
All Things AI – Fighting Teacher Burnout is an engaging, hands-on presentation designed to empower educators by exploring AI tools that can simplify classroom tasks, personalize learning, and reduce workload. Participants will actively explore and experiment with AI-powered resources that assist with lesson planning, grading, differentiation, and communication. Through guided demonstrations and real-world examples, educators will leave with practical strategies to integrate AI effectively, helping them reclaim valuable time and reduce stress.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 219

12:45pm CDT

Creative Connections: The Power of Visual Arts in STEAM Education (Grades 3 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
This session focuses on STEAM career exploration through the lens of arcade design.  Participants will discuss connections of Industrial Design, graphic design, project management, and engineering as it relates to visual arts.  Learn about the project process, see completed student projects, and interact with arcade examples.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
108 Math Lab

12:45pm CDT

Enhancing an Engaging Classroom Culture (Grades Grades 6 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Join us for a transformative seminar focused on creating a purpose-driven classroom that enhances student engagement through intentional practices. Participants will explore the significance of purposeful teaching, effective classroom design, and the power of reflective feedback in fostering curiosity and participation.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 235 CT

12:45pm CDT

Enhancing Learning with Schoology: Exploring Powerful Integrations (Grades 3 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Join us for an insightful session on maximizing the potential of Schoology through its various integrations. This presentation will showcase key tools that seamlessly work with Schoology to enhance teaching and learning experiences. Discover how these integrations can streamline classroom management, promote student engagement, and provide enhanced learning opportunities for students. Whether you're a seasoned Schoology user or just getting started, this session will equip you with practical strategies and insights to enrich your educational practices. Don't miss the chance to elevate your Schoology experience!
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 217

12:45pm CDT

Social-Emotional Readiness Through Purposeful Play (Grades K - 2)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Academic readiness does not always equal school readiness. Through this one hour workshop, attendees will learn about the social and emotional behaviors that develop through purposeful play opportunities in the classroom. From speech development to emotional regulation, participants will gain knowledge of age-based milestones and easy-to-implement ideas for their early childhood classrooms.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 220

1:45pm CDT

F⦁R⦁I⦁E⦁N⦁D⦁S The One Where Adults Support Each Other (Grades K-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
This session highlights the importance of mentoring and peer relationships in fostering teacher development. Participants will discover key strategies for inspiring and supporting one another, promoting excellence through collaborative growth. By empowering educators at every stage of their journey, we can create a nurturing environment where exceptional teachers thrive. Explore partnerships that are essential for equipping educators with the skills, knowledge, and support needed for success in the classroom and beyond. Participants will leave with a variety of options for building teacher capacity from the presenters and participants. Together through mentorship and peer collaboration, we can cultivate a community of supportive, encouraging, collaborative teachers who enjoy coming to work and effectively pour into students from full cups.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 204

1:45pm CDT

Navigating the New: Survival Skills for the First Few Years of Teaching (Grades K-8)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
An eye opening session about how educators can explore the art of teaching and maximize their craft. This session will help attendees identify effective classroom management strategies for student engagement.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Library

1:45pm CDT

New Kid in Town: The Value of Student Leadership (Grades K-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Have you ever been the new person in an organization or school and hoped that there would be someone there to show you the ropes? Come learn how our school has transformed the orientation process from a one-day firehose experience to a year-long immersion program with student leaders! From the recruiting and application process of our student leaders to the planning of our connection activities for all new students, see how one school became the most welcoming school in America!
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Band Room

1:45pm CDT

From Pressure to Performance: Balancing Stress in Educational Settings (Grades 3 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
This session delves into the complexities of stress, highlighting the distinction between eustress (good stress) and distress (bad stress). Participants will discover effective problem- and emotion-focused coping strategies to manage stress. We will also explore the positive neurological impact of mindfulness and meditation. This session aims to equip attendees with actionable tools to enhance resilience and cultivate a healthier, more balanced educational experience for both students and teachers.

In a one-hour session participants will take a Rahe and Holmes Stress Scale, Life Satisfaction Survey, and Eustress/Distress Questionnaire. If this were to be a two hour session participants would take all of the above and the Virtues in Action Character Strengths survey.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 218

1:45pm CDT

Get Connected Within Yourself: Setting Boundaries for Healthy Work-Life Balance (K-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
The session will engage Educators in a Whole Group conversation about setting healthy boundaries in the work place and personally. We will also discuss how to intentionally include Social Emotional Learning in the class and how Wellness and SEL benefits the adult and the students.
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 118

1:45pm CDT

Bring Math to Life with Virtual Reality (Grades 6 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Virtual Reality is increasingly shaping students' lives and education, offering exciting opportunities to bridge classroom learning with the real world. In this session, participants explore the benefits of incorporating VR into math instruction, discussing how it can enhance student engagement and make abstract concepts more tangible. Addtionally, participants will learn the logistics of using VR in the classroom and have the chance to experience a virtual reality lesson firsthand.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 101

1:45pm CDT

Echoes of Innovation: Student Podcast Adventures! (Grades K - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Travel along with us to explore the use of podcasting in the classroom.  This session aims to empower educators to harness the power of podcasting as a dynamic learning tool, encouraging student creativity and communication while fostering a sense of ownership in their educational journey.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 208

1:45pm CDT

Meeting Learners Where They Are: Strategies for All Levels (Grades 6 - 12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Educators will uncover practical strategies to meet learners at their individual levels, from those who struggle to thrive to advanced learners seeking deeper challenges and everyone in between. 
Speakers
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 114

1:45pm CDT

Play and Learn: Developmentally Appropriate Play Based Learning Strategies (Grades K-2)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
After teaching kindergarten for 24 years, some things have changed. Standards have become more demanding & rigorous. Children's lives have become more structured. Children are increasing their time spent on technology & the internet. What hasn't changed is human development. Children still develop at the same speed as they always have. What has disappeared from many classrooms is play and especially imaginative play. As an early childhood educator, play is the work of children. Play helps develop imagination, flexible thinking, creativity, empathy, collaboration, negotiation skills AND emotional regulation. Attendees will have a better understanding of how to design, implement, and assess play-based learning experiences that are developmentally appropriate and engaging for young learners.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Incubator (TECH)

1:45pm CDT

Strategies for Increasing Student Achievement (Grades 6-12)
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Based on "The New Classroom Instruction That Works", this session uncovers how learning happens and how to make it stick. Explore research-based strategies that actively engage students in new learning and help them commit it to long-term memory. Participants will also gain insights into how these strategies have been implemented in schools across the district, offering practical takeaways for immediate application in the classroom.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 206

2:50pm CDT

ENGAGE Closing Session
Tuesday June 17, 2025 2:50pm - 3:00pm CDT
We will wrap up Day One of the ENGAGE Conference with a high-energy closing session that brings everyone back together to celebrate the day’s learning and connections. This is your chance to hear from fellow participants as they share key takeaways, big ideas, and “aha” moments from the sessions they attended. It’s a time to reflect, be inspired by your peers, and get excited about what’s still to come. And yes—more door prizes are on the way, so don’t even think about slipping out early! Come ready to listen, laugh, and leave the day feeling recharged and reconnected.
Tuesday June 17, 2025 2:50pm - 3:00pm CDT
Fine Arts Center
 
Wednesday, June 18
 

7:30am CDT

ENGAGE Registration - Wednesday, June 18th
Wednesday June 18, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Wednesday June 18, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Main Lobby

8:30am CDT

ENGAGE Opening Session - Joe Sanfelippo
Wednesday June 18, 2025 8:30am - 11:00am CDT
Join us for the Wednesday opening session with an unforgettable keynote from Joe Sanfelippo, a nationally recognized speaker, author, and recently retired superintendent with over 26 years of experience in education. Known for his quick wit, heartfelt stories, and contagious energy, Joe brings both humor and depth to his message—reminding educators just how much they matter. His keynote will leave you feeling seen, celebrated, and recharged for the work ahead. Following his talk, Joe will join Holly Martin, Staff Development Specialist and Mason Martin, Mountain Brook High School student for a fireside chat exploring how students can learn, teachers can teach, and leaders can lead in a world where the future is uncertain and ever-changing. Together, they will dig into what it means to prepare students for jobs that don’t yet exist—and how educators can stay grounded and empowered in the process. You won’t want to miss this energizing and thought-provoking start to day two of the ENGAGE Conference!
Wednesday June 18, 2025 8:30am - 11:00am CDT
Fine Arts Center

11:00am CDT

Wednseday Lunch Session
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Take a break, grab a (free!) lunch, and enjoy some time to relax and recharge during our ENGAGE Conference lunch session. This midday gathering is the perfect opportunity to connect with colleagues, spark new ideas through casual conversation, and expand your professional network. You'll also hear brief remarks from our generous conference sponsors who help make this event possible. And don’t rush off—door prizes will be up for grabs, so you just might head back to your next session with a little something extra! Whether you're meeting someone new or catching up with a longtime friend, this lunch is all about good food, great company, and a little fun along the way.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:00am - 11:45am CDT
Gym

11:45am CDT

Celebrating Student Writing with Publishing Parties (Grades K - 5)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
This presentation will focus on the benefits of hosting a "publishing party" to celebrate student writing. Participants will hear quotes from students about why they enjoy publishing parties, the structure of a publishing party, and how to set up a publishing party.
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 204

11:45am CDT

Executive Functioning and Neurofeedback: The Dynamic Duo for Brain Power (Saving Students One Wave at a Time!) (Grades K - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Join us for an engaging session that dives into the world of executive functioning skills and their crucial impact on student academic performance and behavior. We will explore how deficits in these skills can hinder motivation and success, and identify practical school and non-school activities to help improve executive functioning.

In the second part of the presentation, discover the transformative potential of Neurofeedback, a state-of-the-art, non-invasive method for training the brain to function more effectively. Participants will learn how brain waves affect daily tasks and how Neurofeedback can optimize these brain activities for better self-regulation and achievement.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 219

11:45am CDT

Intentional Communication (Grades K-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Communication with colleagues, parents, students, and communities at large is crucial to school success, yet the modes of communication have become so vast and so easy that true communication has become diluted, and may even be considered a lost art. Even though there are thousands of ways an educator can communicate, have you ever wondered what the pillars of effective communication are?  Come join this session to learn about and brainstorm how educators can communicate in ways that bring out the best in others.  We’ll look at case studies, talk through “bedside manner,” and also analyze strategies from some of the best communicators.
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 101

11:45am CDT

Stronger Connections: The Power of Effective Communication with Parents (Grades K-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
In this session, participants will explore practical strategies for fostering positive and effective communication with parents. Through real-life examples, this session will cover email templates, tips for phone conversations, and best practices for initiating open, respectful dialogues. Attendees will leave equipped with actionable tools to enhance their parent interactions and strengthen school-home partnerships.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 107

11:45am CDT

Disengage to Engage: Exploring Teacher Well Being (Grades K -12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Do you feel like you are merely surviving? Does your work-life balance not feel like a balance at all? This session explores current trends in education affecting teacher well being, builds a space to talk through solutions (including simple strategies and research based practices), and provides tools for advocating for better balance in schools.
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 217

11:45am CDT

Using Mindfulness to Support Student Behavior and Teacher Wellness (Grades K-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are gaining attention as a tool for improving student behavior and supporting teacher well-being, but what does the research really say? This session will explore the current evidence base for mindfulness in schools, including findings from two studies conducted by the presenter on using MBIs to support student behavior. Participants will engage in brief mindfulness activities to experience their potential benefits firsthand. The session will also provide practical, research-informed strategies for integrating mindfulness into the classroom setting. Attendees will leave with useful tips and strategies to support students’ emotional regulation and foster their own well-being in the classroom.
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 118

11:45am CDT

Elevate Your Teaching: Four Strategic Approaches in Instructional Design (Grades K-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Unlock the full potential of your instructional design with this engaging session! Dive deep into four transformative engagement strategies that will enhance your approach to teaching and learning. This session offers practical insights and hands on techniques from Marzano, a leading researcher in education, to foster dynamic, learner centered environments. Participants will explore innovative ways to captivate students' attention, promote active participation, and create meaningful learning experiences. Whether an experienced educator or new to the field, this session will equip attendees with tools to elevate your teaching, boost student engagement, and achieve better learning outcomes. Join us to transform your instructional design and inspire your students like never before.
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 114

11:45am CDT

Everything I Learned about Teaching, I Learned from Nick Saban (Grades K-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Nick Saban is widely regarded as the greatest college football coach of all time. But, perhaps his greatest contribution comes not from the awards and accomplishments but from the consistent lessons he preaches in between plays. In this presentation, participants will outline the surprising parallels between Saban’s approach and the pedagogical methods that enhance our teaching practice.
Among others, attendees will lean into the core of Saban’s philosophy—focusing on the process over the product. Motivating, convincing, or cajoling capable but complacent athletes…sound familiar? That’s not that unlike teachers emphasizing the journey of learning over the immediate results of grades.
Through interactive discussions, participants will walk away with strategies to apply these coaching principles to foster a classroom atmosphere that values growth and development over mere outcomes.
Roll (Tide) on over and learn what Saban has to say about Teaching!
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Band Room

11:45am CDT

Preparo Perfecto: Using Magic School AI to Make Prep Time Efficient and Easier (Grades K-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Wave the wand of Magic School AI to transform lesson planning, differentiation, and many other tasks into a faster, more efficient process. This powerful tool helps educators save time by generating materials, streamlining communication, and much more! Join this session to discover how to "magically" lighten your workload and focus on what matters most - your students. Bring something you would want to work your magic on and leave feeling like a true wizard.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Incubator (TECH)

11:45am CDT

Schoology: Extreme Makeover Edition (Grades K-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Level up your Schoology visuals to include more interactivity, better organization, and fun!
Wednesday June 18, 2025 11:45am - 12:40pm CDT
Room 207

12:45pm CDT

The Spartan Sips Story - How to Build Community While Gaining Vocational Skills Through a Student-Run Coffee Shop (Special Education)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Presenters will describe their class's school business "Spartan Sips" using a slideshow, video, and social media- including how to start, what you'll need, and benefits to the students and school. Presenters will then have a question and answer session for specific questions and concerns.  Lastly, attendees will be given time to preplan using the presenters and fellow attendees as resources.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 111

12:45pm CDT

Why Did Nemo Touch the "Butt?" How Understanding Values and Motivation Can Lead To Better Discussions, Better Papers, and Better Relationships (Grades 6-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Do your students bathe in the awkward silence of open-ended questions?  Are discussions tepid, boring, dull?  In this presentation, participants will learn how to use the 16 Desires Theory of American psychologist Steven Reiss to have better classroom discussions, write better papers, and even understand their students and themselves a little better. Why did Nemo touch the "butt?"  Was he motivated by acceptance?  Independence? Vengeance?  And why did Marlin so strongly object?  How can an understanding of this theory provide a framework for better discussions of conflict whether that conflict lies between the pages of a novel or in the cafeteria of a middle school?
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 104

12:45pm CDT

Gas Station Highs: Substances Available to Our Youth and Their Dangers (Grades 3 - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
This session will focus on the availability, descriptions, and contents of substances on gas station shelves that mimic hard core drugs and have detrimental effects on student mental and behavioral health. This session is relevant to any educator, administrator, or parent.
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Library

12:45pm CDT

Robots, Rivialries, and Results: The Power of Competitive Robotics in Schools (Grades 3 - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
A competitive robotics program can create an exciting learning environment for your students.  Students around the world use the engineering design process to design, build, and program robots to play a game that is created by VEX. Students learn through productive struggle and "play" to bolster their engineering, physics, and computer science knowledge.  Soft skills like teamwork, interview skills, working within a budget and timeframe, as well as other soft skills that employers value highly are naturally developed through this process.
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 116

12:45pm CDT

Crafting AI Prompts to Get Great First Drafts of Assessments (Grades 6-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Writing assessments can be tedious and exhausting. With the right kind of prompt, it is possible to cut your assessment-writing time dramatically. Drew Lasater has created AI prompt templates for first drafts of formative assessments that cut his test-writing time by transforming it into test-editing time. Attendees will learn the basics of building a good AI prompt and what pitfalls to avoid in the process.
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 235 CT

12:45pm CDT

Dining with Data: How to Influence Instruction (Grades K - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Data drives instructional decisions, but how do we determine which data is most useful? How can we effectively analyze trends and patterns to inform instruction? Join us for an engaging discussion on practical strategies for leveraging data—including ACAP, iReady, ACT, and more—to support teachers and enhance student learning. Enjoy a meal while gaining valuable insights and actionable tips for making data work for you!
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 201

12:45pm CDT

From Inquiry to Understanding: Implementing 3-Act Tasks in the Classroom (Grades K - 5)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
In this interactive session, we will explore 3-Act Tasks designed to spark curiosity and promote critical thinking in elementary math classrooms. Participants will engage in hands-on activities that demonstrate how to implement these tasks effectively, encouraging students to analyze problems, develop strategies, and collaborate with peers. We will discuss the components of the tasks, including the use of real-world scenarios, student-led inquiry, and the importance of mathematical communication. Join us to discover how to create an engaging and dynamic math environment that fosters a love for learning and empowers students to become confident problem solvers!
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 208

12:45pm CDT

Seesaw Superstars: Empowering Student Creativity! (Grades K-5)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Join us for "Seesaw Superstars: Empowering Student Creativity!" in this engaging session where educators will explore the Seesaw platform to amplify student voices and foster creativity. Participants will learn how to create dynamic, student-centered activities that encourage learners to express themselves through various multimedia tools. Together, we'll unlock the potential of Seesaw to transform classroom engagement and inspire students to take ownership of their learning journey!
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 206

12:45pm CDT

We're All in This Together: A Team Approach to Tiered Instruction (Grades K - 5)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Participants will learn about a shared approach to providing tiered intervention across classes. Highlights will include procedural components including: data collection, building groups, sharing progress, and determining programming. Time will be spent discussing how all learners' needs are considered within this model. Attendees will have the opportunity to share their experiences with tiered intervention and problem-solve as a group.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 1:40pm CDT
Room 220

12:45pm CDT

Who Are These People? Using the Enneagram to Build Positive Relationships in the Workplace (Grades K-12) - 2 Hours
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Have you ever wondered why it's so easy to work with some coworkers, but so difficult to work with others? The Enneagram is a personality model that is broken up into 9 different personality types. In this session, participants will take the Enneagram personality test, discuss the 9 different personality types, look into how/why the different personalities work well together in the work field and how/why they might clash or struggle to work well at other times. Participants will spend time digging deeper into strategies that help build a positive working environment and a strong/collaborative community!
Wednesday June 18, 2025 12:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
108 Math Lab

1:45pm CDT

Fostering a Thriving Culture through Instructional and Socioemotional Intelligence (Grades 6 - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Fostering a thriving culture requires a strategic blend of instructional intelligence—effective teaching strategies, data-driven decision-making, and inclusive pedagogy—and socioemotional intelligence—self-awareness, empathy, relationship-building, and emotional regulation. When these elements work together, they create an environment where individuals feel engaged and supported, leading to improved learning outcomes and overall well-being. This presentation explores practical strategies for integrating both forms of intelligence, emphasizing leadership modeling, professional development, and reflective practices. By prioritizing both instructional effectiveness and emotional well-being, organizations can cultivate a sustainable, high-performing culture that empowers individuals to grow and succeed.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 114

1:45pm CDT

Navigating National Boards (Grades K-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
National Board Certification can be an overwhelming process without the right support and planning. Our panel features teachers who are in the middle of their journey and who have been certified for years. Join us for a panel discussion where we will provide tips for  beginning certification, surviving the journey, finding support, weighing the benefits, and connecting with other NBCTs.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 107

1:45pm CDT

Three Books-Three Lessons (Grades 6 - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Who has time to read both personal and professional development books?  Paul does.  In this session, Paul will share three take aways from three books that you can use today to effect change to your classroom culture.  He reads the books so you don't have to.  Unless you want to.  
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Band Room

1:45pm CDT

Vaping, Drugs, and the Classroom: Navigating Dangerous Trends to Support Students (Grades 6 - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
During this session, educators will learn about current trends in legal, synthetic, and recreational drugs for sale in gas stations. Participants will learn about the dangerous side effects of these drugs. Examples of various concealments and stash compartment items and text message emojis will be shown. This presentation will also include descriptions on how to educate youth to recognize the deceitful and misleading product descriptions.  Understanding that just because something is “legal” DOES NOT mean it is “safe”.  Participants will be shown pictures of mislabeled, youth targeted advertisements to increase awareness.  A variety of local and national resources for support and help will be provided.

Handouts will be available.
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 219

1:45pm CDT

When the Plane Goes Down, Put Your Own Mask on First (Grades K - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Each attendee will get professional, personal and practical steps for self care. Participants will take part in collaborative discussions on how to avoid burn out, burn down, and growing weary. Mr. Cain is a stroke survivor who had to learn the hard way this important life lesson: "If you don't take care of yourself, you can't take care of anyone else."
Speakers
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 101

1:45pm CDT

Artificial Intelligence SmackDown: A WWE Style Showdown in Education (Grades K - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!  Join us for an AI smackdown.  A panel of experts will share their best practices in AI to go from a featherweight to a heavyweight champion in creating engaging and rigorous instruction and streamlining their workflow.  Participants will also be invited to join the ring by sharing their own knockout worthy AI strategies.    
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 207

1:45pm CDT

Beginnings... Experiences and Perspectives of the Early Years of Teaching: Teacher Panel (Grades K - 12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Attendees will engage in a Q&A session featuring two first-year teachers and an administrator. In this session, Donald will ask both Ann and Morgan a variety of questions about their perspectives and experiences as first-year teachers. The discussion will highlight their insights on various activities, lessons, and views on classroom lessons, with the goal of inspiring and influencing veteran teachers. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to ask their own questions.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Incubator (TECH)

1:45pm CDT

Bridging Writing and Reading for Young Learners (Grades K - 2)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
This session will focus on enhancing the connection between writing and reading skills in young learners. Educators will explore effective strategies to create cross-curricular lessons that incorporate engaging literature and mentor texts when teaching writing. By utilizing these resources, teachers will learn how to design lessons that inspire creative writing. Educators will be empowered to implement innovative strategies that bridge the gap between reading and writing, ultimately enhancing student engagement and success in both areas. Join us to discover how to make writing instruction more dynamic and interconnected for young learners.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 217

1:45pm CDT

Little Writers, Big Voices: Teaching Writing in Kindergarten and 1st Grade (Grades K - 1)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Many teachers of young students feel uncertain about their own writing skills, which can make teaching writing feel daunting. This session will provide practical strategies to build confidence and create a thriving community of young writers. Participants will explore how to establish a strong writing foundation at the start of the year, ensure daily writing opportunities, conduct effective writing conferences for students at all levels, and seamlessly integrate writing and grammar standards. Walk away with actionable ideas to inspire and empower students as writers from the very beginning.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 204

1:45pm CDT

Special Education 101: 10 Must-Know Insights about the World of Elementary Special Education (Grades K - 5)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Does a medical diagnosis ensure Special Education qualification? How much documentation do I need to refer a student? What is the role of a paraprofessional? Isn’t the IEP more of a suggestion? Can I modify the curriculum so it’s easier? It’s ok if I talk about the IEP with coworkers as long as we whisper, right? What can I do with all these behaviors I’m seeing? This kid could be getting all A’s if he tried harder, should I refer him? Don’t all kids in Special Ed need kind of the same thing? Can’t we put all kids with IEPs in one inclusion class?

This riveting presentation will have you on the edge of your seat. You will go back to your school armed with valuable information, including handouts and tools that you can share. Your faculty and staff will be so impressed with the SPED knowledge you have gained.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 218

1:45pm CDT

The Impact of Visual Processing on School Performance (Grades K-12)
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
There is an assumption that students arrive to school with intact vision; however, students can pass a vision screening and still have visual processing challenges.  It is estimated that 80% of learning is visual, so addressing visual concerns is of primary importance for successful learning.  Participants in this course will leave with a new appreciation for visual differences that are not attributed to acuity alone.  Recognizing visual processing differences in K-12 learners, knowing when to refer to a specialist and having tools that will make accessing academic information more visible to all learners are the objectives of this course.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Room 118

2:50pm CDT

ENGAGE Closing Session
Wednesday June 18, 2025 2:50pm - 3:05pm CDT
We will wrap up the ENGAGE Conference with a high-energy closing session that brings everyone back together to celebrate the closing of an incredible two days of learning and making connections. This is your chance to hear from fellow participants as they share key takeaways, big ideas, and “aha” moments from the sessions they attended. It’s a time to reflect, be inspired by your peers, and get excited about what’s still to come. And yes—we will give away the last (and best) of the door prizes! Come ready to listen, laugh, and leave the conference recharged, reconnected, and ready to make an impact.
Wednesday June 18, 2025 2:50pm - 3:05pm CDT
Fine Arts Center
 
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