1:20-2:05

Diamond 1: Math on the Farm: Real-World Learning in an Ag Math Classroom  -- What happens when students stop asking, “When will I ever use this?” and start asking, “How do I figure this out?” In this session, explore how an Ag Math course uses real-world agriculture, hands-on experiences, and community connections to make mathematics meaningful and relevant to students. From calculating feed costs and grain moisture to measuring pastures, analyzing hay markets, and working with local agricultural businesses, students use math to solve problems that actually matter.  We will explore the importance of taking mathematics beyond the classroom and giving students authentic opportunities to see how math is used in careers and everyday life. Participants will see examples of lessons, field experiences, projects, and community partnerships that can be adapted to other math classrooms—even if you don't teach an Ag Math course. The goal is to leave with practical ideas for making math feel less like something students have to do and more like something they need to know how to do. (6-12)

Diamond 3: Accelerate, Don't Remediate: Strong Instruction Through An Acceleration Framework -- As educators, we work to strengthen students’ foundations of prior knowledge before introducing challenging grade-level content. Traditionally, this has meant remediation—returning to skills from earlier grades. Recently, however, a different approach has gained national attention: learning acceleration. In this session, participants will explore what learning acceleration is, examine the research that supports it, and generate strategies for applying it in classrooms and across schools beginning on the very first day of learning. (General)

Diamond 6: Establishing a Thinking Classroom: Cultivating Higher-Order Thinking, Collaboration, and Metacognition --What happens when mathematics instruction is systematically designed to position students as active thinkers, collaborators, and reflectors? In this interactive session, participants will explore how rich mathematical tasks and collaborative structures can promote higher-order thinking and transform a classroom into an environment grounded in student reasoning, reflection, and meaningful discourse. Together, we will examine how task selection, collaborative structures, and purposeful planning can increase engagement and cultivate independent mathematical thinkers.  (4-8)

Diamond 8: How to Stand Out & Land Your First Teaching Job  -- Learn practical tips for standing out in the application and interview process, showcasing your strengths, and landing your first teaching position with confidence. . (Pre-Service)