Facilitator: Kolby Gonzalez, PMS Social Studies
Session Resources
Teachers will learn how to use Padlet in an effective way for their courses. Teachers will use the various tools within Padlet, such as screen recording, AI images, hyperlinking resources, commenting, video recording, and much more. After, teachers will collaborate with their peers on effective classroom uses of the tool in an online learning environment.
Facilitator: Kaylin Richards, FMS English
Session Resources
In this interactive session, participants will learn the essentials of starting a podcast and how to use Canva to create eye-catching graphics and promotional materials. The session includes a hands-on project where attendees design their podcast’s branding and produce a short episode. By the end, you'll have the confidence and skills to launch your own podcast using Canva's tools.
Facilitators: Anthony Prinzo (EHS Science), Dina Dormer (Secondary STEM Supervisor)
Session Resources
Knowledge acquisition and learning become more profound when integrated with skill development, connections, and applications. This session focuses on utilizing multidimensional strategies to empower students to take an active role in their learning and growth while deepening their understanding and ability to apply knowledge in various situations.
Facilitators: Michelle West (PMS ELD), Suzanne Brady (EHS ELD), and Ashlyn Dorman (FMS ELD)
Session Resources
ELLevations for teachers! Come explore ELLevations for classroom teachers and learn how you can easily access information on your ELs. Plus, learn how to use Diff-it to adjust the reading level of your assignments to meet your students at their levels. We will share tips that we have learned to quickly differentiate your assignments!
Facilitator: Self-facilitated
Room: A113
In this session, educators will have the opportunity to explore digital platforms to support their in-person instruction. Curriculum Supervisors and ITCs will provide targeted lists to guide this exploration. Please note, that you may only participate in this session once per conference day.
Click here to access the digital tools.
Facilitators: Caitlyn Boyle (RHS Librarian) & Connie Rosenberger (PMS Librarian)
Session Resources
Move away from traditional research and make inquiry-based learning approachable and relevant for your students. Plus, find out how your school’s librarian can help you throughout the process, no matter your content area!
Facilitators: Charlie Hutchison (HHS Social Studies) & Thomas Juelke (RHS Science)
Session Resources
Did you know that the WCASD has access to the ESRI GIS software? Join us to explore the dynamic potential of ESRI's GIS software in empowering inquiry-based learning in your classroom. Learn practical strategies to integrate geospatial technology, fostering critical thinking and spatial reasoning skills among students.
Facilitator: Kristine Culp & Jordan Fleming
Session Resources
Discover how Canva can help you prepare for the upcoming year and engage your students like never before. Explore a range of features designed to make your life easier, including suggested activity cards to ensure you have your best school year yet! Don't miss this opportunity to get ahead during this busy time of year.
Facilitator: Heidi Fliegelman, HHS English
Session Resources
In the ELA focused session, come and learn ways to create and support an inclusive classroom. The session will provide time for discussion and collaboration.
Facilitators: Theresa Phethean (EHS Instructional Coach) & Caitlin McFadden (RHS Reading Specialist)
Session Resources
Participants in the The Knowledge Gap Book Study have the opportunity to come together to discuss in person The Knowledge Gap: The Hidden Cause of America's Broken Education System--and How to Fix it by Natalie Wexler. This session will provide a chance for participants to have a more in-depth conversation of the ideas presented in the book and to collaboratively discuss the path forward.
Facilitator: Laura Fredd-Maxwell, HHS Instructional Coach
Session Resources
Providing enrichment, remediation and support to students has never been easier with Diff-it. Learn how to use Diff-it to meet the needs of the learners in every level and to leverage this AI software to create meaningful and targeted instruction.
Facilitator: Self-facilitated
Room: A113
In this session, educators will have the opportunity to explore digital platforms to support their in-person instruction. Curriculum Supervisors and ITCs will provide targeted lists to guide this exploration. Please note, that you may only participate in this session once per conference day.
Click here to access the digital tools.
Please join us in the Expo Hall to meet different vendors and explore their products.
Facilitator: Dina Dormer, Secondary STEM Supervisor
Session Resources
Work life balance is essential to optimal performance and satisfaction in all realms of existence. This session encourages participants to evaluate their status in eight dimensions of wellness: emotional, spiritual, physical, social, financial, occupational, intellectual, and environmental.
Facilitators: Theresa Phethean (EHS Instructional Coach) & Caitlin McFadden (RHS Reading Specialist)
Session Resources
Supporting our readers of all levels in literacy has never been more important than it is now. This session will focus on ways to provide structure to before, during and after reading activities in a way that promotes structured literacy and allows for student centered learning.
Facilitator: Joelle Linstra, PMS Special Education
Session Resources
This PD will review relevant special education topics specific to general education teachers. The topics include (but are not limited to) specially designed instruction, reading levels, teacher input forms, roles during IEP meetings, and resources. This PD is geared towards any new teachers, those wanting an IEP refresher, or anyone wanting to know other ways to support students with an IEP in their class.
Facilitators: Kara Bailey (Secondary ELA Supervisor) & Alex Fad (SMS Family & Consumer Sciences)
Session Resources: Contact Dr. Bailey
This session will equip teachers with the essential considerations for integrating artificial intelligence into their teaching practices. Participants will explore ethical, pedagogical, and practical implications of AI, ensuring its effective and responsible use. The perspective of an AI-hesitant teacher's journey will be shared to integrate into the broader discussion of AI use in education.
Facilitator: Annie Korb
Session Resources
Are you ready to take your classroom projects to the next level? Join us for an exciting session where you'll discover Canva's multimedia tools. Learn how students can create engaging videos, easy green screen projects, podcasts, book trailers, digital stories, news broadcasts, and so much more! Don't miss this opportunity to unleash your students' creativity and make learning unforgettable.
Facilitator: Self-facilitated
Room: A113
In this session, educators will have the opportunity to explore digital platforms to support their in-person instruction. Curriculum Supervisors and ITCs will provide targeted lists to guide this exploration. Please note that you may only participate in this session once per conference day.
Click here to access the digital tools.
Facilitator: Laura Fredd-Maxwell, HHS Instructional Coach
Session Resources
Based on the work of Peter Liljedahl, "Building Thinking Classrooms" strategies promote reasoning and critical thinking. This session focuses on establishing an environment that allows for productive struggle and on creating opportunities for student-centered learning. Participants will learn how to develop learning experiences that place students at the helm.
Facilitator: Traceyanne Hilton, SMS Math
Session Resources
In this session, educators will discover innovative strategies to empower students in showcasing their mastery of content. Through this protocol, teachers will learn to create an environment where students articulate their understanding, fostering deeper comprehension and critical thinking skills. Gain practical tools to implement mastery learning effectively and cultivate a classroom culture centered on student-driven demonstration of knowledge.
Facilitator: Andrew Conley, EHS Social Studies
Session Resources
In this session, we will explore various AI tools designed to streamline and enhance the planning process for teachers. The primary focus will be on how Diffit and MagicSchool can significantly reduce the time spent on lesson planning and administrative tasks. Join to discover how AI can transform your planning process and give you more time to focus on what truly matters – teaching.
Facilitators: Lisa Replogle, HHS Special Education
Session Resources
This professional development will target both general and special education teachers in grades K-12. The topic of ableism will be defined for the participants and discussion will occur regarding what it means to be ableist. Participants will learn about ableist microaggressions that may occur within the school community and discuss some of the most common demonstrations of ableist behavior. We will also focus on how participants can work towards shifting their own mindset and language to embrace students of all abilities.
Facilitators: Alysa Beer, IXL
Room: A106
Come explore the new additions and fan favorites from IXL. A representative from the company will provide an overview of the new tools along with specific ways to better integrate IXL into instructional practices.
Facilitator: Self-facilitated
Room: A113
In this session, educators will have the opportunity to explore digital platforms to support their in-person instruction. Curriculum Supervisors and ITCs will provide targeted lists to guide this exploration. Please note that you may only participate in this session once per conference day.
Click here to access the digital tools.
Don't forget to complete the survey in My Learning Plan to earn your Act 48 and FLEX time!