Presenter: Sarah Cave, Consultant, Early Childhood Special Education

                    Diana Glass, Consultant, Early Childhood Special Education

Room: Real/Maverick

Learn how to modify/adapt text and use effective reading strategies to create inclusive & engaging reading experience for all students.

Presenter: Cindi Bowling, Ph.D., Consultant, Behavior and Discipline

Room:  Kerr/Kinney

This de-escalation strategies training will equip individuals with valuable skills to manage conflicts effectively and create a more harmonious learning environment by: 

Promoting Calm Communication: Training in de-escalation will teach individuals to communicate calmly. This reduces tension and helps prevent conflicts from escalating.  

Enhancing Conflict Resolution Skills: Participants will learn techniques to resolve disputes peacefully. This is especially useful in high-stress environments, such as workplaces or schools. 

Building Empathy and Understanding: This training encourages individuals to understand others' perspectives. This fosters empathy, making it easier to handle difficult situations.

Presenter: Julia Eyer, Statewide Special Education Liaison 

Room:  Pecan

In this session, you'll gain valuable insights and practical tips on the Texas Education Agency (TEA) folder review process. Whether you're navigating it for the first time or seeking to enhance your current approach, you'll walk away with actionable strategies to ensure your documentation is organized, compliant, and review-ready.

Presenter: Kelly-Anne Carroll

Room: Oak

This  session offers a practical exploration of direct and explicit instruction. We'll break down the essential elements of this strategy ("what"), delve into the critical reasons for its effectiveness with students with disabilities ("why"), and showcase tangible examples of how it can be applied in diverse classroom contexts ("how"). Equip yourself with the knowledge and practical strategies to immediately enhance your instructional practices.

Presenter: Jessica Kelley, Consultant, Speech & Language Pathologist

Room: Mesquite 

This session will delve into the transformative power of assistive technology (AT) in Special Education. We’ll explore examples of the use of AT tools, services, and considerations regarding the evaluation and IEP process for students with different learning needs. Participants will learn about the different AT requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 

Presenter: Bianca Cole, Coordinator III, Special Education Support Services

Room: Maple

When a student with a disability has been identified or is in the process of being identified as emergent bilingual (EB), the student’s admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) committee must work in conjunction with the language proficiency assessment committee (LPAC) to ensure appropriate identification and reclassification of the student and recommended placement in a bilingual education or English as a second language (ESL) program. Participants will discuss non-negotiables for ARD/LPAC collaboration as well as best practice tips and resources.

Presenter: Brandalyn Haggerty, Behavioral Health Partnership Program Liaison         Evelyn Crespo, Consultant, Project AWARE 

Room: Medina/La Salle

Dive into the fascinating world of brain development through The Brain Architecture Game! In this interactive session, participants will work collaboratively to build a model brain using everyday materials, simulating the profound impact of Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences (PACEs and ACES). This hands-on activity illustrates how early experiences shape brain architecture and influence mental health. Together, we’ll explore strategies to build resilience and foster supportive environments, empowering participants to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and youth. Perfect for educators, counselors, and mental health advocates!

Presenter: Kristi Jordan, Ph.D., Consultant, Special Education Evaluation

Room: Magnolia

This session outlines the local education agency's (LEAs) responsibility in ensuring that Child Find duties are met and all students that are suspected of having a disability are identified, located, and evaluated.