CAMPUS TOURS!!

Offered during all three Breakout Session time slots

PLEASE plan to catch one of these tours!

Welcome table on the 1st floor 

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Embracing the Calling & Challenges 

Presenters:  Debbie Shaffer & Travis Brumback 

2nd Floor - Pike Room 266

(Offered during Sessions 1 and 2)

Teaching is a rewarding yet challenging profession. In this session, you will explore your "why" and cultivate a passion for teaching. You will learn to embrace your “calling” in the educational field.  You'll also gain insight into the challenges that come with the profession. Through classroom simulation activities, we’ll provide a closer look at the daily challenges teachers face. You'll collaborate with partners to brainstorm solutions, adding valuable strategies to your toolkit for future use.

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Your "Why" 

Panel:  Your Educators Rising Student Officers

Co-Presidents: Haley France & Josie Morehead,
V-P: Joely Hackmann, & Promo/Branding: Halle Bruss

With Ambassadors Kala Green & Debbie Shaffer 

2nd Floor - Pike Room 266

(Offered ONLY during Session 3)

Teaching isn’t just a job—it’s a calling that reaches deep into your heart and inspires you to make a difference. This breakout session is designed for future educators who are ready to explore the “why” behind their decision to pursue teaching. Together, we’ll reflect on the profound impact teachers have in shaping lives and communities, even in the face of challenges. Through stories, discussions, and practical insights, we’ll celebrate the unique privilege of being called to this profession and the rewards of living out your passion. Join us to discover how teaching can transform not only the lives of your students but also your own. 

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Emotional Resilience in Teaching

Presenter:  Dr. Christie Henderson

2nd Floor - Hermann Room 262

(Offered during Sessions 1, 2 and 3)

This session will explore the ways in which teaching requires us to commit to self-care. We will spend time exploring topics and issues in the field of teaching that require us to truly care for our bodies and minds so we can be present and ready in our classrooms every day. This session will offer some “easy to implement” strategies for difficult days and participants will leave with a clear idea how to address and confront the difficult days and times in their future classroom. 

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The Heart of Teaching 

Presenters:  Kansas Teacher of the Year TEAM

Liz Anstine - Leavenworth HS, Business

Ryan Mellick - Bonner Springs HS, Industrial Tech

Maegen Stucky - McPherson Elem

Whitney Aves - Hutchinson HS, FACS

Amber Pagan - Shawnee Mission's Nieman Elem

Olivia Winegeart - Derby's Cooper Elem

Benjamin Eckelberry - Shawnee Heights' Tecumseh North Elem

Erik Stone - Wichita's Gordon Parks Academy,  Band-Vocal

2nd Floor - Spencer Room 264

(Offered during Sessions 1, 2 and 3)

KTOY will take you on a journey through the heart of teaching inspired by the beloved show Friends. Like the show's characters, every teacher brings their unique style, personality, and passion to the classroom. Our Kansas Teacher of the Year team embodies this spirit, with each member representing a distinct approach to education and a shared dedication to empowering students. Through this presentation, we’ll highlight the core qualities that make teaching impactful—fun, rapport, identity, endurance, needed dynamic, support, and the ripple effect of meaningful connections—while adding nostalgia along the way. So, let’s dive in and celebrate the spirit of teaching! 

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Promoting the Profession

Presenter:  Nancy Smith, NBCT

2nd Floor - Lucas Room 265

(Offered during Sessions 1, 2 and 3)

Are you super excited about the teaching profession?  Would you like to get others excited too?  Then this session is for you!  Join us as we delve into the thrilling world of education.  This session is all about strategies, games, and activities that make teaching fun for you and your students.  You’ll have opportunities to connect with others that are just as passionate about teaching as you are…don’t miss it! 

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