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We are so glad you are here! We chose Institute Day 2025 breakout sessions based on your feedback from last year: more content-specific and grade-level-specific sessions as well as bringing back a keynote speaker.

Registration will open on Monday, January 6th, 2025 at 6:00AM CST.

Not seeing sessions that meet your specific needs? Check out our partner sites hosting professional learning opportunities on Institute Day here: https://kaneroe.org/institute-day/

Questions?
Contact Jordan Eggleson at jeggleson@kaneroe.org
or to bookmark your favorites and sync them to your phone or calendar.
Company: PreK-12 clear filter
Friday, February 28
 

8:00am CST

**KEYNOTE SPEAKER** The Educator's ATLAS: Your Roadmap to Engagement
Friday February 28, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am CST
Fox River Ballroom - Keynote
Feedback Survey
Based on the critically acclaimed book, The Educator’s ATLAS offers a groundbreaking roadmap for capturing student engagement in the first moments of class, and sustaining it all the way to the last. In keeping with Weston Kieschnick’s mission and vision for education, ATLAS holds both learner needs and teacher wisdom in equal importance. Central to this is alignment and clarification of student engagement that—once and for all—offers teachers an actionable role. Educators will leave this session joyfully inspired, motivated, and with a plan in hand for cultivating curiosity, creating participatory classrooms, and nurturing a desire to persevere in all students. And as is always the case with Kieschnick’s keynotes, participants will laugh and have a lot of fun along the way.
Speakers
avatar for Weston Kieschnick

Weston Kieschnick

Kieschnick and Associates, LLC
Weston Kieschnick is an award-winning educator, best-selling author, TEDx speaker, coach, husband, and father. He is the author of, The Educator’s ATLAS, Bold School, Breaking Bold, co-author of The Learning Transformation: A Guide to Blended Learning for Administrators and the... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 8:00am - 9:15am CST
Fox River Ballroom - Keynote 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  **KEYNOTE SPEAKER**

8:00am CST

*FULL DAY SESSION* Youth Mental Health First Aid Training (8:00AM-3:15PM)
Friday February 28, 2025 8:00am - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 15
Feedback Survey
Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.

*Participants registered for this session will have 2 hours of required, online pre-work.
Speakers
avatar for Denise Elsbree

Denise Elsbree

Youth Mental Health First Aid
Denise Elsbree, LCSW, has been involved with Mental Health First Aid since 2011.  Currently a National Trainer for Mental Health First Aid, she previously taught and coordinated MHFA and YMHFA courses for a large health care system in the Chicagoland area.  Other work experiences... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 8:00am - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 15 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  FULL DAY SESSION

9:30am CST

**KEYNOTE SPEAKER** The Educator's ATLAS: Part II
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 1
Feedback Survey
In this breakout session, participants will take a deeper dive into The Educator’s ATLAS with a renewed understanding of the methodology guaranteed to increase student engagement and enhance the quality of instruction happening in our schools.
Speakers
avatar for Weston Kieschnick

Weston Kieschnick

Kieschnick and Associates, LLC
Weston Kieschnick is an award-winning educator, best-selling author, TEDx speaker, coach, husband, and father. He is the author of, The Educator’s ATLAS, Bold School, Breaking Bold, co-author of The Learning Transformation: A Guide to Blended Learning for Administrators and the... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 1 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  **KEYNOTE SPEAKER**

9:30am CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER* The AI Toolbox: Best AI Tools for Schools
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 3
Feedback Survey
ChatGPT and Gemini are wonderful, but what other AI tools are available? Thankfully there are many educational AI resources that build on top of these models with tools that are free, provide extra functionality and features, and make the process easier and more convenient for educators. In this session we will explore many of these tools such as Diffit, Udio, MagicSchoolAI, Conker, Curipod, QuestionWell, Brisk Teaching, Goblin Tools, SchoolAI, Khanmigo, EnlightenAI, Snorkl, Sorcerer, and more.
Speakers
avatar for Eric Curts

Eric Curts

Curtsworks LLC
Eric has been in education for 33 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio. He also provides keynotes, professional development, and consulting for schools, organizations, and conferences all across the country. Eric’s areas... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 3
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

9:30am CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER* Yes Man Paradox
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 2
Feedback Survey
Restoring balance and setting boundaries in your professional and personal life. Maximizing your worth by exploring your passions and connecting them to your why. Utilizing the CASEL competencies to guide your approach to teaching and learning:self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Zilly

Lindsay Zilly

As an edtech working mom of five, I have mastered the art of multitasking. I can create content, facilitate a virtual learning session, and break up a sibling argument all while keeping a pot of coee brewing. When I’m not revolutionizing the education system, you can ind me binge-reading... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 2
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

9:30am CST

Cultivating Your Allies: Creating Collaborative Relationships With Families
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 6
Feedback Survey
Objectives: The goal of this session is to equip educators with techniques to build and maintain a culture of teamwork and respect with families at every stage of the year.

Description: This session will cover common opportunities to communicate with families, including first days of school, parent-teacher conferences, IEP/504 meetings, leveraging social media for family & community engagement, as well as responding to common parent concerts and de-escalation techniques. Educators will leave the session with techniques and resources they can implement in their practice.
Speakers
avatar for Tracey Servé

Tracey Servé

Crescent Educational Consultants
Tracey Servé founded Crescent Educational Consultants to extend her passion for student agency and community-building, creating a broader impact beyond the classroom. Over her 16 years in the classroom, Tracey has developed a philosophy centered on building student agency over their... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 6 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

9:30am CST

Empowering All Learners: Student Success Through Gender Equity
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 14
Feedback Survey
In this session, participants will explore the concept of gender bias, and how identifying it can help to enhance the climate and culture in their classrooms.  Participants will learn how understanding gender bias can increase student engagement and success while improving relationships throughout the school.
Speakers
avatar for Peter Cunningham

Peter Cunningham

Director of Instruction and Personnel, Diamond Lake SD 76
EB
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 14 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

9:30am CST

Unlocking Potential: Enhancing Autism Supports in Schools
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 2
Feedback Survey
In this session, educators' will gain an understanding of the key features and characteristics of autism spectrum disorder and how to support students with ASD. Participants will explore practical strategies and best practices for creating supportive learning environments and implementing effective autism supports within school settings, empowering them to better meet the diverse needs of students on the spectrum.
Speakers
avatar for Turning Pointe Autism Foundation
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 2 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

9:30am CST

2026 Rebecca Caudill Award Book Talk
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 9
Feedback Survey
Come and hear about the books nominated for the 2026 Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award! We'll book talk the new list of 20 nominees and share how you can use the books in your classroom and library.
Speakers
RG
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 9 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Literacy

9:30am CST

Understanding the Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan and What it Means for Advanced Learners
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 4
Feedback Survey
The Illinois Comprehensive Literacy Plan and its implications support differentiated literacy instruction for ALL learners. This provides districts and schools "flexibility and local autonomy" in a "no one size fits all" literacy learning program and curriculum. This session will place a lens on the advanced literacy learner and how the Literacy Plan advocates for differentiated instruction and meeting the needs of advanced learners.
Speakers
avatar for Laura Beltchenko

Laura Beltchenko

Illinois Reading Council
Laura Beltchenko has been a classroom teacher, reading specialist, teacher and coordinator of gifted programs, and an associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction in a suburban K-12 school district. She is currently the Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education Advisory... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 4 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Literacy

9:30am CST

Math Vocabulary & Language - Best Practices
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 3
Feedback Survey
This session covers best practices in teaching and practicing math vocabulary for all students, but especially beneficial for ELL or SPED students. Using these key ideas and strategies, students will make better connections to math content, which will translate into better understanding of concepts. Teachers will leave with resources and ideas to use in every math lesson.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Sibley

Rachel Sibley

Independent Math Coach & Consultant, Rachel Sibley Math Coaching & Consulting, LLC
Rachel Sibley is a math education coach & consultant, working with schools and teachers around the area to build a structure for the teaching & learning of math standards. With a priority on best practices and engaging instructional strategies, Rachel works with teachers to create... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 3 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Math

9:30am CST

NAAEE Guidelines for Excellence: K-12 Education
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 11
Feedback Survey
This workshop introduces participants to K–12 Environmental Education: Guidelines for Excellence which provides students, parents, educators, home schoolers, administrators, policy makers, and the public a set of common, voluntary guidelines for environmental literacy.  

The guidelines support state and local environmental education efforts in this way:
✓ Set expectations for achievement in fourth, eighth, and twelfth grades
✓ Suggest a framework for effective and comprehensive environmental education
programs and curricula
✓ Demonstrate how environmental education can be used to meet standards set by
the traditional disciplines and give students opportunities to synthesize knowledge
and experience across disciplines
✓ Define the aims of environmental education

These guidelines set a standard for high-quality education, based on what an environmentally literate person should know and be able to do by the time they graduate from high school. They draw on the best thinking in the field to outline the core ingredients of environmental education. Workshop participants will walk away with a solid understanding of the learning framework provided in the Guidelines and will be able to correlate the guidelines to
their own curriculum materials.

*Participants will be given print curriculum in this session. 
Speakers
avatar for Environmental Education Association of Illinois

Environmental Education Association of Illinois

The Environmental Education Association of Illinois (EEAI) is a statewide organization dedicated to supporting educators. EEAI nurtures and sustains a diverse network of environmental educators in Illinois. We foster connections, improve environmental literacy, and amplify underrepresented... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 9:30am - 10:45am CST
Breakout Room 11 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  STEAM

11:00am CST

**KEYNOTE SPEAKER** The Educator's ATLAS: Part II
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 1
Feedback Survey
In this breakout session, participants will take a deeper dive into The Educator’s ATLAS with a renewed understanding of the methodology guaranteed to increase student engagement and enhance the quality of instruction happening in our schools.
Speakers
avatar for Weston Kieschnick

Weston Kieschnick

Kieschnick and Associates, LLC
Weston Kieschnick is an award-winning educator, best-selling author, TEDx speaker, coach, husband, and father. He is the author of, The Educator’s ATLAS, Bold School, Breaking Bold, co-author of The Learning Transformation: A Guide to Blended Learning for Administrators and the... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 1 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  **KEYNOTE SPEAKER**

11:00am CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER* The ABC's of AI - What Educators Need to Know
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 3
Feedback Survey
The capabilities and availability of Artificial Intelligence tools have skyrocketed in recent years. It is critical for schools to consider how to best address and use AI in education. In this session we will explore the ABC's of AI including: A) About AI (what AI tools are currently available and how they work), B) Benefits of AI (practical and powerful ways to use AI for teaching and learning) and C) Concerns of AI (how to address potential misuses of this transformative technology).
Speakers
avatar for Eric Curts

Eric Curts

Curtsworks LLC
Eric has been in education for 33 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio. He also provides keynotes, professional development, and consulting for schools, organizations, and conferences all across the country. Eric’s areas... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 3
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

11:00am CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER* The Power of Purpose: A Guide to Finding Your Path and Making an Impact
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 2
Feedback Survey
This session is designed to help educators and edtech enthusiasts explore how to connect their passion and skills with a sense of purpose in order to create real impact in the world of education. This session will cover strategies and practical tools for discovering one's unique purpose and turning it into a powerful force for change in the classroom and beyond. Attendees will learn from real-world examples of successful edtech initiatives, and have the
opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals to brainstorm and plan their own purpose-driven edtech projects. Whether you're just getting started in the field or looking to re-energize your approach, this session will equip you with the inspiration and resources you need to make a positive impact on education through technology.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Zilly

Lindsay Zilly

As an edtech working mom of five, I have mastered the art of multitasking. I can create content, facilitate a virtual learning session, and break up a sibling argument all while keeping a pot of coee brewing. When I’m not revolutionizing the education system, you can ind me binge-reading... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 2
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

11:00am CST

Creating Connections: Navigating Home to School Connection
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 2
Feedback Survey
In this session, educators will be equipped with the necessary tools to cultivate positive relationships with parents, ensuring a balance between connection and maintaining healthy boundaries, even during challenging conversations or life circumstances. While examples tailored to special education will be featured, educators from all backgrounds are encouraged to participate and benefit from the discussion.
Speakers
avatar for Turning Pointe Autism Foundation
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 2 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

11:00am CST

The Inclusive Classroom: Allowing All Students To Be Their Whole Selves
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 6
Feedback Survey
Objectives: The goal of this session is to teach educators how to create an intentional culture of inclusivity in their classrooms from the first day to the last.

Description: This session will focus on using inclusive language, establishing culturally informed classroom norms, examining images and texts used in the classroom, and allowing students to have their voices heard. Educators will leave the session with techniques and resources they can implement in their practice.
Speakers
avatar for Tracey Servé

Tracey Servé

Crescent Educational Consultants
Tracey Servé founded Crescent Educational Consultants to extend her passion for student agency and community-building, creating a broader impact beyond the classroom. Over her 16 years in the classroom, Tracey has developed a philosophy centered on building student agency over their... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 6 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

11:00am CST

Integrating Effective Writing Practices into Non-ELA Classes
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 1
Feedback Survey
"Integrating Effective Writing Practices into Non-ELA Classes" is a professional development workshop
designed to equip educators across various disciplines with strategies to enhance writing instruction in
their classrooms. Tailored for teachers outside the English Language Arts (ELA) realm, this workshop
focuses on practical techniques for incorporating writing assignments, feedback mechanisms, and
literacy-building activities into subject-specific curricula. Participants will explore innovative approaches to cultivate students' writing proficiency while promoting deeper engagement and comprehension in non-
ELA subjects.
Speakers
avatar for Jess Rodriguez

Jess Rodriguez

Writing Specialist, Illinois SLD Support Project
Jess Rodriguez is an experienced educator with a diverse background in teaching and curriculum development. For the last year, Jess honed her expertise in educational strategies providing support as a regional specialist; however, she is excited to now embark on a new journey as an... Read More →
avatar for Illinois SLD Support Project
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 1 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Literacy

11:00am CST

Powerful Partnerships: Teachers Collaborating with Librarians
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 9
Feedback Survey
Stimulate reading investment for students by generating a community of readers! Developing self-sufficient lifelong readers is not a mission that can be accomplished alone. As educators, we need a reading community for this task. Developing a powerful partnership between teachers and librarians will revitalize readers by reinforcing expectations for student reading, supporting self-selected choices, and explicitly instructing young people on how to access the school library with all its treasures.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Niki Woodruff

Dr. Niki Woodruff

ELA Teacher, BPS
As a dedicated educator who focuses on empowering my students to become readers and writers with a voice, my knowledge and expertise in YAL, as well as Student Voice & Choice (SVC), have grown exponentially. I have been in the field of education for over twenty years, completed a... Read More →
DW
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 9 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Literacy

11:00am CST

Using the Question Formulation Technique (QFT) to Foster Student Critical Thinking and Collaboration
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 4
Feedback Survey
The Question Formulation technique (QFT) provides a structured approach to assist students in asking questions, not just answering them.  QFT words in concert with inquiry based learning and promotes learning engagement and meaningful discussion.  QFT initiates the development of thought-provoking questions that assists educators understand how much prior knowledge their students know about a topic of study.  It supports critical and creative thinking while fostering students' natural curiosity, motivation and engagement in learning. It is an excellent strategy for social studies and science for grades K-12. This is an interactive session so get ready to collaborate!  
Speakers
avatar for Laura Beltchenko

Laura Beltchenko

Illinois Reading Council
Laura Beltchenko has been a classroom teacher, reading specialist, teacher and coordinator of gifted programs, and an associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction in a suburban K-12 school district. She is currently the Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education Advisory... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 4 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Literacy

11:00am CST

Structuring Guided Math & Small Group Instruction
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 3
Feedback Survey
Small group instruction provides an opportunity for flexible and differentiated learning in the math classroom. Learn how to keep your students engaged, give them choice, and tailor instruction based on student needs - all while using a manageable teacher system. Participants will learn how to plan and implement guided math, and leave with resources to use in the classroom. 
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Sibley

Rachel Sibley

Independent Math Coach & Consultant, Rachel Sibley Math Coaching & Consulting, LLC
Rachel Sibley is a math education coach & consultant, working with schools and teachers around the area to build a structure for the teaching & learning of math standards. With a priority on best practices and engaging instructional strategies, Rachel works with teachers to create... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 3 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Math

11:00am CST

NAAEE Guidelines for Excellence: Community Engagement
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 11
Feedback Survey
This workshop explores the Community Engagement Guidelines for Excellence from NAAEE. Would you like to work with your community more to design and implement quality programs? This set of guidelines focuses on community wellness and is designed to help formal and nonformal environmental educators create inclusive environments that support effective partnerships and collaborations. Workshop participants will walk away with a solid understanding of the Community Engagement Guidelines and how they improve the quality of EE practice and will Identify tools for fostering community engagement strategies at your home schools/organizations/contexts.

*Participants will be given print curriculum in this session.
Speakers
avatar for Environmental Education Association of Illinois

Environmental Education Association of Illinois

The Environmental Education Association of Illinois (EEAI) is a statewide organization dedicated to supporting educators. EEAI nurtures and sustains a diverse network of environmental educators in Illinois. We foster connections, improve environmental literacy, and amplify underrepresented... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 11:00am - 12:15pm CST
Breakout Room 11 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  STEAM

12:30pm CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER * Super Tutor: AI to Support all Learners
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 3
Feedback Survey
Artificial intelligence tools are a powerful way to provide support, accessibility, and accommodations for all learners for all of their needs. In this session we will explore ways AI can assist with individualized AI tutoring, personalized explanations, reading comprehension, summarization, writing supports, custom feedback, problem solving, review, and much more.
Speakers
avatar for Eric Curts

Eric Curts

Curtsworks LLC
Eric has been in education for 33 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio. He also provides keynotes, professional development, and consulting for schools, organizations, and conferences all across the country. Eric’s areas... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 3
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

12:30pm CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER* Empowering Our Teachers to Shift the Narrative and Set a Course for a New Future
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 2
Feedback Survey
Empowering our teachers to shift the narrative and set a course for a new future. In this session we look at the systems within education that are holding us back and discuss ways to move everyone forward. From ableism, to gender inequities, once we know better we can do better. This is simply a place to start and find our footing so that we can notice the problems, confront them, and begin to rebuild.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Zilly

Lindsay Zilly

As an edtech working mom of five, I have mastered the art of multitasking. I can create content, facilitate a virtual learning session, and break up a sibling argument all while keeping a pot of coee brewing. When I’m not revolutionizing the education system, you can ind me binge-reading... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 2
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

12:30pm CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER* Stories Matter: Creating an Anti-Racist School Culture
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 1
Feedback Survey
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
  • How to Engage in Vigilant Self-Awareness
  • The importance of Studying and Teaching
  • How to talk about Race with Students
Speakers
avatar for Dr. John Gaines

Dr. John Gaines

Top Youth Speakers
Dr. John “Push” Gaines is a former at-risk kid turned CEO/Founder of nonprofit PUSH for Dreams, a Best-selling author, renowned speaker, leadership consultant, and mentorship advocate. His message of pushing through adversity and defying the odds has transformed classrooms, school... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 1 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

12:30pm CST

Building Bridges to Success: Assessment and Goal Writing for Educators
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 2
Feedback Survey
In this session, educators will be equipped with the necessary tools to cultivate positive relationships with parents, ensuring a balance between connection and maintaining healthy boundaries, even during challenging conversations or life circumstances. While examples tailored to special education will be featured, educators from all backgrounds are encouraged to participate and benefit from the discussion.
Speakers
avatar for Turning Pointe Autism Foundation
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 2 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

12:30pm CST

I notice, I wonder
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 14
Feedback Survey
“I notice, I wonder” is a student-led seminar in which students discuss their experiences, hardships, and development regarding their identity. The “I notice,” is representative of a student's past and current experiences in the educational system that they want to bring to light. The “I wonder,” is an open and inclusive conversation between students and faculty on the, “Why?” in the classroom. This seminar is a platform for all individuals, inspiring understanding and sparking discussion.
Speakers
avatar for D301 Students

D301 Students

Central Unit School District 301
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 14 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

12:30pm CST

MTSS - Building a Solid Structure
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 3
Feedback Survey
This session will explore a system to structuring a successful MTSS process for your school or district. Participants will reflect on and evaluate current systems and practices, and leave with a plan and resources to bring to their school.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Sibley

Rachel Sibley

Independent Math Coach & Consultant, Rachel Sibley Math Coaching & Consulting, LLC
Rachel Sibley is a math education coach & consultant, working with schools and teachers around the area to build a structure for the teaching & learning of math standards. With a priority on best practices and engaging instructional strategies, Rachel works with teachers to create... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 3 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

12:30pm CST

Stronger Connections, Stronger Classrooms: SEL Strategies That Work
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 12
Feedback Survey
Ready to boost connections and make your classroom a place where students feel seen, heard, and ready to learn? In this session, we’ll dive into CASEL’s 3 signature practices and Greg Wolcott’s Significant 72—two powerful approaches to building relationships and creating a culture where students thrive. You’ll leave with practical, easy-to-use ideas that bring SEL to life and help you build a classroom that’s not just about learning, but about belonging.
Speakers
avatar for Elsa Glover

Elsa Glover

Instructional Coach, Kane County Regional Office of Education
Hello!My name is Elsa Glover and I'm an instructional coach for Kane County Regional Office of Education. I earned my Bachelor's degree from the University of Illinois in English and History. Then I earned my Master's in Arts and Teaching at Aurora University.My teaching career started... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 12 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

12:30pm CST

Unlocking the Brain's Potential - Rewiring the Way We Teach
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 10
Feedback Survey
This session's goal is to support the educator’s understanding of the brain while taking time to reflect on the alignment of current practices with the foundational needs of the brain. Participants will walk away with an ability to view engagement and learning through the lens of the brain and will be able to cultivate a classroom environment that supports the neuropsychological needs of children.
Speakers
AV
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 10 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Language

12:30pm CST

Utilizing Paired Text and Text Sets to Present Challenge and Literary Analysis, Grades 2-5
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 4
Feedback Survey
Using paired text based on topics, or the exploration of overarching concepts and generalizations are methods of raising awareness of how texts having similar subjects compare as well as contract with one another to develop deeper levels of understanding. In this session we will explore how pairing texts and creating text sets (a bibliography will be shared) can benefit the development of higher order thinking as well as how story details and the integration of ideas can support literary analysis that is found in the Illinois Assessment of Readiness.  

Speakers
avatar for Laura Beltchenko

Laura Beltchenko

Illinois Reading Council
Laura Beltchenko has been a classroom teacher, reading specialist, teacher and coordinator of gifted programs, and an associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction in a suburban K-12 school district. She is currently the Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education Advisory... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 4 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Literacy

12:30pm CST

Game On! (SEL FUNdamentals)
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 9
Feedback Survey
Put the fun in SEL fundamentals!  In this joyful and interactive workshop, participants play a variety of tabletop games that can be enjoyed with staff to support positive climate and culture or in the classroom to foster and support SEL skills.
Speakers
NA
Friday February 28, 2025 12:30pm - 1:45pm CST
Breakout Room 9 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Social and Emotional Learning

2:00pm CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER * Artificial Intelligence / Natural Misuse - Managing AI in Schools
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 3
Feedback Survey
As beneficial as AI is, it also comes with challenges and the potential for misuse. In this session we will explore ways to address academic integrity concerns, tools and strategies to help monitor AI use, proper citation for AI generated content, ways to encourage positive use of AI in the classrooms, developing your own class set of AI guidelines for students, alternative assessment options, addressing AI bias and inaccuracies, student data privacy, identifying fake content, evaluating AI tools, and more.
Speakers
avatar for Eric Curts

Eric Curts

Curtsworks LLC
Eric has been in education for 33 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio. He also provides keynotes, professional development, and consulting for schools, organizations, and conferences all across the country. Eric’s areas... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 3
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

2:00pm CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER* Engagement: Everything I Learned about EDU, I Learned from Jimmy Fallon
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 2
Feedback Survey
This highly interactive and engaging workshop leverages gamification to keep students engaged in authentic learning
experiences. Walk away with a playlist of activities rooted in best pedagogical practices that you can use with your students tomorrow!
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Zilly

Lindsay Zilly

As an edtech working mom of five, I have mastered the art of multitasking. I can create content, facilitate a virtual learning session, and break up a sibling argument all while keeping a pot of coee brewing. When I’m not revolutionizing the education system, you can ind me binge-reading... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 2
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

2:00pm CST

*FEATURED SPEAKER* Just One, "I Believe in You" Can Change a Kid's Life
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 1
Feedback Survey
John’s childhood was one of extreme adversity. Growing up surrounded by drugs and violence, facing personal struggles, and being bullied for his differences, he had every reason to give up, but he pushed through thanks to a caring adult. In this speech, he shares how educators and caring adults can make a life-changing impact in the life of a kid.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:
  • Why educating the WHOLE CHILD matters
  • How to integrate practical, relational tools
  • How to connect with empathy
Speakers
avatar for Dr. John Gaines

Dr. John Gaines

Top Youth Speakers
Dr. John “Push” Gaines is a former at-risk kid turned CEO/Founder of nonprofit PUSH for Dreams, a Best-selling author, renowned speaker, leadership consultant, and mentorship advocate. His message of pushing through adversity and defying the odds has transformed classrooms, school... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Fox River Ballroom - Section 1 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  *FEATURED SPEAKER*

2:00pm CST

Blueprint for Behavior: Introduction to Functional Behavior Assessments
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 2
Feedback Survey
This session is designed to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of functional behavioral assessments (FBA) in the school environment. Throughout this session, our aim is to demystify FBA by defining its core concepts, exploring the four functions of behavior, and distinguishing between indirect and direct assessments. You'll have the opportunity to engage with various assessment types and real-life examples of results.
Speakers
avatar for Turning Pointe Autism Foundation
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 2 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

2:00pm CST

I notice, I wonder
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 14
Feedback Survey
“I notice, I wonder” is a student-led seminar in which students discuss their experiences, hardships, and development regarding their identity. The “I notice,” is representative of a student's past and current experiences in the educational system that they want to bring to light. The “I wonder,” is an open and inclusive conversation between students and faculty on the, “Why?” in the classroom. This seminar is a platform for all individuals, inspiring understanding and sparking discussion.
Speakers
avatar for D301 Students

D301 Students

Central Unit School District 301
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 14 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Diversity Equity and Inclusion

2:00pm CST

Unlocking Potential: Tools and Strategies to Build Executive Function Skills
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 10
Feedback Survey
Executive function skills, including planning, organization, and self-regulation, are essential for student success in the classroom and beyond. This session equips educators with research-backed strategies and digital tools to foster these critical skills in their students. Participants will explore how integrating simple, effective tools and techniques into daily teaching practices can enhance student learning, independence, and productivity.
Speakers
DM
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 10 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Language

2:00pm CST

Implementing the first Building Thinking Classrooms Toolkit
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 3
Feedback Survey
Peter Liljedahl's book Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics: 14 Teaching Practices for Enhanced Learning in Grades K-12 has become a game changer for teachers all over the country and is a very powerful way to structure your math routines! These strategies focus on best practices in math instruction & grading/feedback approaches, so your students are engaged, motivated, and growing in the math classroom. This session will introduce you to the Building Thinking Classrooms’ approach, then cover the first 3 strategies from the book, set up as a "toolkit" that is explained, dissected, and then can be implemented in any mathematics classroom. You do not need to have read or have the book to attend this session.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Sibley

Rachel Sibley

Independent Math Coach & Consultant, Rachel Sibley Math Coaching & Consulting, LLC
Rachel Sibley is a math education coach & consultant, working with schools and teachers around the area to build a structure for the teaching & learning of math standards. With a priority on best practices and engaging instructional strategies, Rachel works with teachers to create... Read More →
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 3 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Math

2:00pm CST

SEL for Adults
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 9
Feedback Survey
This session is to explore, support, and develop the SEL needs and interests of educators based on CASEL’s framework of 5 Competencies:  Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills, and Responsible Decision-Making.   Participant Outcomes: To explore CASEL’s 5 Competencies of SEL as they apply to adults. To support participants to reflect and self-assess on SEL as part of impacting student learning. To develop a next step based on participant’s individual needs and interests.
Speakers
LN
DA
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 9 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  Social and Emotional Learning

2:00pm CST

Bringing Computer Science to All Classrooms - Mock Workshop
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 12
Feedback Survey
Explore the critical role of computer science in today’s classrooms during this professional development session. Participants will learn why embedding computer science into all subjects is vital for equipping students with future-ready skills. Guided by an instructional coach, attendees will engage in a mock SCRIPT workshop to understand the key components of a comprehensive K-12 computer science education plan and the steps schools can take to integrate computer science effectively.
Speakers
avatar for Faye Licari

Faye Licari

Kane County Regional Office of Education
Friday February 28, 2025 2:00pm - 3:15pm CST
Breakout Room 12 1405 N 5th Ave, St. Charles, IL 60174
  STEAM
 
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