TEDxClinton Central School

Big change rarely begins with something big. More often, it starts with a small moment—a question, a choice, a conversation, or a quiet act of courage. The Power of Small Things explores how seemingly small ideas and actions can ripple outward to shape communities, shift perspectives, and spark meaningful change. At this TEDx event, speakers will share stories and insights that reveal how incremental steps, personal passions, and overlooked details can lead to powerful outcomes.

These talks remind us that innovation does not always arrive with fanfare. Sometimes it begins with noticing what others miss, nurturing a simple idea, or taking one thoughtful step forward. Through personal stories, creative insights, and bold ideas, our speakers will illuminate how small things can transform the way we think, create, and connect.

Join us for an evening of ideas worth spreading, and discover how the smallest sparks can ignite something extraordinary.

Aubrionna Ballard is a radiant, optimistic 17-year-old whose spirit has been shaped—and strengthened—by life’s trials. At a young age, she came to understand that the world can be vast, complicated, and at times unkind. Rather than letting that hard truth harden her, it awakened in her a deep belief in open-mindedness, compassion, and acceptance. Each experience has refined her perspective, teaching her that gratitude is not just a feeling, but a powerful way of seeing. As she steps boldly into the real world, Aubrionna carries with her a growing wisdom: that perspective can transform pain into purpose. And through the unexpected guidance of a little girl, she discovers a new lens on life—one filled with wonder, humility, and hope.

Jim is the co-founder and board president of the Syracuse Poster Project, a public art initiative that has brought poets and artists together since 2000 to create illustrated poetry posters for the city. With a background in physics, journalism, and art, he previously reported for the Syracuse Post-Standard covering communities across Central New York. Emmons remains active in the arts and enjoys photography, filmmaking, and exploring French culture.

Olivia is a 13-year-old girl who enjoys learning outside just as much as she does inside the classroom. After how many schools she has attended, she learned that all of them have the same goal: growth.

Nora is a 13-year old 7th grader in Clinton Central School. She was a student leader in the 2025 CCS Longest Table. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with her 2 best friends, who are also doing TEDx with her. She has also been in 17 musicals; her favorites include Matilda, Seussical, and Shrek.

Devin Mahoney is a television writer-producer, improviser, and nonprofit arts leader. After a decade in the entertainment industry, he returned to his hometown to revive the historic Uptown Theatre and build a community-centered arts organization. Now serving as Executive Director of the Uptown Theatre for Creative Arts, Devin teaches improv and develops programs rooted in collaboration and play.

Gianni Notaro is in his 15th year of teaching and 12th year at Westmoreland Central School District where he is currently serving as the Westmoreland Teacher Center Director, Instructional Coach and Social Studies Department Chair in addition to his teaching duties.

Mr. Notaro is a multi award winning educator and a prior recipient of the Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award. This award recognizes teachers who are at the forefront of innovation in the classroom and exemplify the profession. The Empire State Excellence in Teaching Award is awarded to only a select few teachers and is one of the highest honors a teacher can receive in New York State.

Mr. Notaro is a 2002 graduate of Clinton CSD and currently resides in Clinton with his wife Caitlyn, who is the current High School Art Teacher at Westmoreland and their 7 year old son Dante who attends 1st grade at Clinton Elementary School.

Brian Schaffran is a co-founder of Motogo Cleveland, a nonprofit teaching kids confidence as they fail their way through building vintage motorcycles. Brian figured out the hard way that learning with his hands was the best way to learn. As a former math and history teacher, he has made it his mission to let as many kids as possible experience that same form of learning. Brian’s love of vintage machines ensures he is always getting his hands dirty, embracing failure, and encouraging us all to attempt to fix the world around us.

Honor Smoke is an 11 year old trailblazing Indigenous athlete, leader, and role model who is redefining what’s possible for youth in sports. Known for her discipline, resilience, and fearless determination, Honor has made history as the youngest athlete to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated (March 2025). A NYWAY Girls State Wrestling Champion, she travels across the country pursuing her dreams while balancing academics, leadership, and service. Honor is an honor-roll student at Akron Middle School who hopes to one day compete at the Olympics for Team USA. Passionate about empowering others, she uses her voice to inspire confidence, break barriers and encourage young people to chase big dreams, both on and off the mat.

Christine Spiak believes in the power of small, intentional actions. She teaches that when people live consciously and use their God-given talents with purpose, even subtle shifts can create meaningful change. Wisdom, gained by a turning point that taught her to slow down, to clarify what matters most, and to choose a path forward grounded in faith.

Christine is a Money Coach, owner of Compass Financial Wellness, and co-founder of Success Circle. A Certified Profit First Professional and known for her warm, grounded approach, Christine helps people align their finances with their values so money becomes a source of freedom, peace, and joy.

Angela Stockman became a teacher because she had good teachers—and children are some of the best. For over twenty years, she's partnered with educators across 100+ school systems worldwide, designing professional learning experiences rooted in multiliteracy development, curriculum and assessment design, and the understanding that it is our smallest moves that often matter most. The author of six books and lifelong action researcher, Angela specializes in helping teachers and young learners reclaim the power of small: small moments, small risks, small circles, and small invitations that transform learning. She lives by the conviction that stories matter, and she'd love to hear yours.