Session Descriptions:

Workshop A: Inside Educators Rising: Competitions Overview 

Presenter: Gabby Kangume 

Curious about Educators Rising and how competitions work? This session offers an overview of the organization and its competitive events, including categories, expectations, and how competitions are organized. You’ll also get a preview of the competitions offered at this year’s State Conference at UMass Boston in March 2026. Whether new to competing or aiming to take your skills to the next level, this session will leave you confident, prepared, and excited to showcase your educator skills.

Workshop C: Student Leadership & Advocacy 

Presenter: Claire Mullen

Join Chief of Staff Claire Mullen from the Massachusetts Association of Student Representatives (MASR) for an engaging session on what it means to be a student leader and advocate. Participants will explore practical strategies for building their leadership skills, using their voice effectively, and creating meaningful change within their schools and communities. To close the workshop, everyone will create a small leadership-themed craft to take home—a reminder of the core values and lessons shared during this empowering experience.

Workshop E: Level Up Your Leadership: Learn How to Lead With Inclusion.

Presenter: Kaesha Rajgor, MA BPA State President 

Think leadership is just about being in charge? Think again! In this interactive workshop, you’ll uncover how small biases can sneak into our decisions, explore different leadership styles, and learn how to ensure everyone’s voice is heard. Through activities, group challenges, and real-world BPA examples, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to create inclusive teams that spark creativity, trust, and success. Come ready to challenge assumptions, celebrate differences, and grow into the leader people want to follow!