ADE Summit 2024: Full Schedule

5:00pm CDT

Early Registration

Sunday July 7, 2024 5:00pm - 6:00pm CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center

General

7:30am CDT

Registration

Monday July 8, 2024 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center

General

7:30am CDT

Morning Snacks

Join us in the Expo Hall for snacks and beverages including:

Assorted breakfast breads and petite muffins
Individual yogurts with granola
Fresh seasonal fruit
Freshly b

Monday July 8, 2024 7:30am - 9:00am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D Hot Springs Convention Center

General

8:30am CDT

[KEYNOTE] Secretary Jacob Oliva

Presenters

Jacob Oliva

Secretary, Arkansas Department of Education

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders appointed Jacob Oliva as secretary for the Arkansas Department of Education in January 2023. The State Board of Education also selected Oliva as commissioner of ADE’s Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. Prior to being named secretary... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center

General

9:00am CDT

Midmorning Beverage Break

Join us for a beverage break in the Expo Hall, including: coffee, hot tea, iced tea, bottled water, Gatorade, and assorted soft drinks.

Monday July 8, 2024 9:00am - 10:30am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D Hot Springs Convention Center

General

10:20am CDT

[Vendor Session] Approved! BSCS Biology: Understanding for Life gets the thumbs up from EdReports.

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Kendall Hunt Publishing.

Learn how a biology curriculum designed around the K-12 Frameworks for Science Education allows students to engage in authentic scientific practices to acquire a deep understanding of life science.

Presenters

Teresa Rockwood

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 10:45am CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, Science

10:20am CDT

Spicing up the Seasoned Administrator

Even seasoned administrators will learn how to spice up their practice through updated options for collecting quality evidence while also preserving time and efficiency.

Presenters

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE

Pearce Peacock

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

10:20am CDT

K-2 Screener and Early Intervention for Math

In this session, participants will connect the math screener/assessment and data with specific interventions that can be used to move students toward grade-level proficiency.

Presenters

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Math

10:20am CDT

What's New in K-5 ELA Standards?

In this session, participants will receive an overview of new K-5 ELA Standards, with specific focus on changes and updates around the standards and the science of reading.

Presenters

Sandy Shepard

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

10:20am CDT

Accreditation: Floor Not the Ceiling

Join us as we delve into the latest additions in Monitoring, emphasizing the pivotal role of quality and its intersection with compliance. Let's explore together how these elements contribute to effective leadership.

Presenters

Brooke McCain

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Accountability

10:20am CDT

AR App

The AR App was developed to fulfill the requirement to implement a more efficient planning and application process so that districts have more time to focus on the actions that help students. This session will provide an overview of the AR App's development and how its design will assist districts in identifying a set of priorities in a strategic district plan that support student learning.

Presenters

Stacy Smith

Deputy Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Stacy Smith is a dedicated education professional currently serving as the Deputy Commissioner for the Arkansas Department of Education. With a passion for improving education in the state for all students and educators alike, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the state's educational... Read More →

Matt Sewell

Assistant Commissioner, DESE

Jayne Green

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations

10:20am CDT

Arkansas Transportation Modernization Grant Program

This presentation will describe aspects of the Arkansas Transportation Modernization Grant Program including who is eligible to apply, what purposes the grant can be used for, and an approximate timeline.

Presenters

Tim Cain

Director, AR Public School Academic Facilities & Transportation

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations

10:20am CDT

Challenging Common Misconceptions: Fact vs. Fiction about Bullying

What is bullying?
Bullying is a harmful behavior that occurs in many settings. It includes actions like harassment, intimidation, and threats of violence. Recognizing and addressing bullying is essential for creating safe and supportive environments for everyone.
Join us for an interactive session to take a close look at AR Code § 6-18-514 (2020).

Presenters

Darrell Farmer

Public School Program Advisor, Division of Elementary & Secondary Education (EAC)

Darrell Farmer has a decade of experience in the public school system, serving as a behavioral interventionist, multi-age intercessor, ALE facilitator/teacher and a dyslexia interventionist. Prior to his education work, he spent 19 years working in mental health. He has a bachelor’s... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Legal

10:20am CDT

Monitoring Requirements for Food Service Management Company (FSMC) Contracts

This hour-long session will cover federal monitoring requirements for districts that are outsourced with Food Service Management Companies. We will teach attendees the difference in monitoring a Fixed Price versus a Cost Reimbursable contract by demonstrating a step-by-step method to check invoices and backup documentation for each contract type. Some topics of discussion include unallowable expenses, labor reports/timesheets, crediting of USDA donated foods, and meal equivalency calculations.

Presenters

Nancy Dill

Melissa Ray

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Finance, Child Nutrition

10:20am CDT

New Coordinators Session

This session is tailored for NEW SIS Coordinators to provide an in-depth understanding of their responsibilities, available resources, communication importance, and to learn about the SIS system and the state reporting process.

Presenters

Jessica Bowman

APSCN Field Analyst, Arkansas Dept of Education

Rehsmi Jose

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

10:20am CDT

School Safety Observation Tool Overview

Overview – School Safety Observation Checklist for routine safety checks, not to be used as a substitute for Comprehensive Safety Audit. Discuss commonly overlooked safety issues.
How to – Step-by-step walk through of the Safety Observation Tool checklist.

Presenters

Jason Weatherly

Safe School Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education - DESE

Jason is an Arkansas native. He has over twenty-five years experience in construction, building inspections, and/or academic facilities. Before joining the Safe Schools Unit, Jason worked for ADE DPSAFT as a Facilities Project Manager where he reviewed and inspected construction projects... Read More →

Jerry Keefer

Arkansas Safe Schools Director, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Prior to joining ADE, Keefer worked as a special agent in charge of the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office since 2020. During that time, he supervised various units including the Executive Protection Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Investigations Unit, and Digital Forensics... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, School Safety

10:20am CDT

McKinney-Vento 101

This training will provide an overview of proper identification of students experiencing homelessness according to the McKinney-Vento definition. This session will help liaisons and educators in understanding the dynamics of family and youth homelessness, dispute resolution, transportation, school selection and immediate school enrollment, and all other services available to students under the McKinney-Vento law.

Presenters

Jessica Hickman

Public-School Program Advisor - McKinney-Vento, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Jessica Hickman is the new Public-School Program Advisor for the state of Arkansas on the McKinney-Vento Law. This law provides services for students experiencing homelessness. She has a passion for learning and a passion for helping students that makes her current role helping students... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Student Support, McKinney-Vento

10:20am CDT

Meeting The Computer Science Graduation Requirement

This session will cover the variety of ways a student can meet the computer science graduation requirement. Topics will also include options for getting a teacher licensed, support for teachers and schools, and other opportunities from the Computer Science Unit.

Presenters

Adam Musto

STEM Program Coordinator, ADE Division of Career and Technical Education

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Student Support, Pathways Beyond High School

10:20am CDT

Unlocking Potential: Our District's Journey to Academic and Language Growth of English Learners

This session hosts a dynamic panel discussion spotlighting districts that have made significant strides in English Language Proficiency and academic achievement. Gain insights from your educational colleagues or come with a list of questions to help refine practices within your school district. This is more than a presentation; it's a platform for collective growth and learning. Join us in beating the odds for all our learners.

Presenters

Amy Gramlich

Bryant Public Schools

Jonathan Arbuckle

Kathleen Fleming

ESOL & Migrant Education Program Coordinator & Homeless & Foster Care Liaison, Pocahontas Public Schools

Jana Catlett

ESOL Coordinator, Bryant Public Schools

Kimbraly Barnes

Superintendent, Drew Central

Kimbraly Barnes is currently serving as the Superintendent of the Pirate Nation, the Drew Central School District, located in Monticello, Arkansas. During her 33 years in education, she has been an administrator for 28 years in Arkansas and Texas serving at the building level as an... Read More →

Cindy Luper

Federal Programs..., Drew Central School District

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Student Support, ESOL

10:20am CDT

Budget Prep: Understanding the School Budget

This training equips superintendents with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop a well-structured budget. Participants will learn how to allocate resources effectively, make informed decisions, and maintain solid fiscal health for their educational institutions.
Topics will include the key components of a budget, practical tools for budget development, navigating enrollment trends and state funding.
If you wish to attend, please RSVP so we can provide your specific district information to you at the session.

Presenters

Eric Saunders

Associate Deputy Commissioner, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Dr. Saunders serves as the Assistant State Superintendent for District Support with the Arkansas Department of Education. Previously, he has been an assistant superintendent for Benton Public Schools in Benton, Arkansas. Additionally, he is the former assistant commissioner at the... Read More →

Jason Miller

Monday July 8, 2024 10:20am - 12:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Finance

10:55am CDT

[Vendor Session] The Forgotten Standards: Engaging Students with the MPs in Grades 3-5

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Great Minds.

When planning lessons, we often focus on the content standards, but what about the Standards for Mathematical Practice (aka the MPs)? Lessons grounded in the MPs provide students with opportunities to engage in mathematical thinking. Learn how to recognize and capitalize on opportunities for MP management with a focus on grades 3-5.

Presenters

Amy Beeler

Monday July 8, 2024 10:55am - 11:20am CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, Math

11:40am CDT

[Vendor Session] We're helping districts give every student an expert reading tutor - and get outstanding results

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Ignite Reading.

Parents trust that their children will learn to read in school. The reality is that 67% of 4th graders read below grade level, and students of color make up a disproportionate number—both facts have held true for the past 30 years. Learn how districts in Arkansas and around the country are partnering with Ignite Reading to deliver a high-impact tutoring program that uses the power of human relationships and data to ensure all students master foundational reading skills. through daily one-to-one virtual tutoring with a caring, expert tutor, Ignite Reading 's program is boosting student confidence and successfully closing decoding gaps for students across all demographics.

Presenters

Tania McKey

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:05pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, Literacy

11:40am CDT

All Systems Go: Is your MTSS ready for take-off?

Has your MTSS process stalled or crashed? Maybe, you are still trying to build the plane while flying it? Let us help guide your work by providing practical insights on lessons learned from MTSS implementation. In this session, we will explore team development strategies, effective data collection and analysis methods, and targeted interventions to help get your MTSS soaring to new heights.

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital

11:40am CDT

Knowing Who You Grow: VAM(Value Added Measures) and Roster Verification

Explore how the Teacher Value Added modules in LEA Insights can aid in improving student growth in achievement your schools and districts, and learn how you can use the Roster Verification System to improve data quality in these modules.

Presenters

Sharlee Crowson

Educator Effectiveness Special Projects Coordinator, DESE

Sharlee Crowson has been a part of the DESE Educator Effectiveness team since 2016. During that time, she has worked in educator preparation, teacher recruitment, and educator workforce data.

Karli Saracini

Assistant Commissioner of Educator Effectiveness & Licensure, Arkansas Department of Education

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE

Matthew Sutherlin

Coordinator of Standards and Systems Support, Public School Accountability

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Data

11:40am CDT

Who Done It? Now What?: 24 hour Rule and Background Check Reporting

This session will focus on the PLSB's process for "24 Hour Standard 1 Mandated Reporting" by school districts. The session will also discuss new background check requirements for school districts' mandatory reporting of arrests or charges for disqualifying offenses, and new Early Childhood background check process.

Presenters

Whitney James

Managing Attorney, Professional Licensure Standards Board, Arkansas Department of Education

Melissa Jacks

Program Manager, Educator Licensure, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Clara Toney

Public School Program Coordinator (Background Checks), Arkansas Department of Education

Kayla Bodi

Program Manager, Office of Early Childhood

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Data

11:40am CDT

6-12 Science Fundamental Content

In this session, participants will dive into the 6-12 science fundamental content support documents so course-level expectations are clear, and students receive a coherent progression through high school and beyond.

Presenters

Katie Chacon

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Science

11:40am CDT

Dyslexia: Why Early Intervention Matters

This session will focus on findings from research on the early identification and intervention of reading difficulties like dyslexia. The presenters will address the educational and social-emotional implications of early, intensive intervention.

Presenters

Stacey Mahurin

Speech-Language Pathologist

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

11:40am CDT

K2 Assessment System-Purpose driving Design

Embark on an enlightening journey with our session, where we unravel the intricacies of the cutting-edge K-3 screener and K-2 assessment system. Discover the purpose behind this seamlessly integrated educational powerhouse, gaining insights into its purpose, key components, and the art of skillfully utilizing data. Join us to not only understand but to master the innovative features of this system, empowering you to elevate your teaching practices through informed decision-making and a deeper understanding of student needs. Let's turn data into actionable strategies, making education a dynamic and tailored experience for both educators and students alike.

Presenters

Michelle Johnson

Director of Assessment, Department of Elementary & Secondary Education

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Assessment

11:40am CDT

Targeting Math Foundational Skills Instruction: Key Levers for Instructional Leaders

In this session, participants will examine the key levers to elevate math foundational skills instruction and learning outcomes. Participants will walk away with an in depth understanding of observation "Look Fors" in the impact areas of Structures for Learning, Aligned Content, Teacher Instructional Practices and Student Practice

Presenters

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Kiffany Pride currently serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Learning Services for Arkansas’ Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). With 27 years of experience, Dr. Pride has recently served as the Director of Curriculum and Assessment and RISE Assessor for the... Read More →

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Math

11:40am CDT

CLASS Evaluation Tool

Overview of the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS). This is a pilot project reviewing how effective CLASS is in the evaluation of the quality of early childhood programs across the state.

Presenters

Lori Bridges

Director of Early Childhood Programs, Arkansas Department of Education

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Early Childhood

11:40am CDT

Institute Insights: Transforming Education with Farm to School

2023 Institute Schools, who have worked on developing or expanding their school garden will offer this "showcase activity" highlighting the activities planned and achieved with the school garden grant as well as future plans for development or expansion of agricultural education programs in the school.

Presenters

Jessica Chapman

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

11:40am CDT

SIS Updates

SIS Coordinators! this session will show new features that were recently developed with the state reporting system (SIS).

Presenters

Reshmi Jose

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

11:40am CDT

TAC Tips for Teachers

This session will explore some helpful features with the Teacher Access Center (TAC) that will be interesting for teachers. Come join the session, there maybe features mentioned you didn't know about.

Presenters

Echo Dickson

APSCN Field Analyst, Arkansas Dept of Education

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

11:40am CDT

What's in a letter grade?

As educators, understanding that the A to F grading system serves as a vital tool for gauging school performance and driving improvement initiatives is critical. It is with great pleasure that ADE announces significant enhancements to this system, aimed at fostering a more holistic and fair approach to assessing our schools' achievements.

Presenters

Hope Worsham

Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability, Arkansas Department of Education

With a distinguished career spanning various educational leadership roles, including serving as the Assistant Commissioner for Public School Accountability at DESE (Department of Elementary and Secondary Education), I bring a wealth of expertise to the table. As a former 6-12 mathematics... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Accountability

11:40am CDT

Objective PURPLE: Engaging Military Families

Practical ways to support your military families and to get their support for your school. Practical exercises and handouts will be included.

Presenters

Jessica Saum

2022 Arkansas Teacher of the Year

Jessica Saum is a special educator, author, military spouse and is the 2022 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. Jessica previously worked as a self-contained special education teacher in Cabot, Arkansas and is known not only for her excellence in the classroom but for her advocacy work... Read More →

John Kaminar

Military Family Engagement Advisor, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

John Kaminar served for ten years in the U.S. Army and twenty in the U.S. Army Reserve. He has been a foreign language teacher and administrator in Arkansas schools before joining the DESE staff as a curriculum specialist in 2012. He has a B.A. in Russian and German from Texas... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Family & Community Engagement

11:40am CDT

Press Play on Possibilities: Exploring Virtual Arkansas's Mixtape of Services

Join us as we press play on the possibilities and reimagine the future of education together! Virtual Arkansas, the state’s virtual provider, has supported Arkansas schools for over 10 years by providing courses and certified teachers, but did you know that they offer a wealth of other services that will benefit your district? This session will showcase 10 unique Virtual Arkansas services and feature testimonials from schools around the State that love our partnership and what it does to support their school and students! Just like a well-crafted mixtape, our array of services offers something for every district, from personalized learning pathways to innovative teaching tools.

Presenters

Jason Bohler

Samantha Carpenter

Arch Ford ESC- Virtual Arkansas, Arch Ford ESC- Virtual Arkansas

Christie Lewis

CTE Campus Director/Principal, Dawson Education Cooperative/Virtual Arkansas

Christie Lewis has been in education for 22 years. She has spent nine of those years in a traditional brick-and-mortar classroom, eleven years in the virtual learning environment with the last six serving with Virtual Arkansas, and the last two years in a leadership position. Her... Read More →

Tye Bibby

Rachael Walston

Monday July 8, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support

12:15pm CDT

[Vendor Session] The Impact of Early Literacy Coaching in Arkansas

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by SchoolKit.

Come learn about the transformative power of SchoolKit's early literacy coaching partnership in Arkansas across nearly 40 schools and 8 districts during the '23-24 school year. We'll delve into the tools and methods used to impact and improve Kindergarten through 3rd grade literacy practices across the state and share useful resources with participants.

Presenters

Jessica Kelly

Monday July 8, 2024 12:15pm - 12:40pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, Literacy

1:00pm CDT

[Vendor Session] The Importance of A Comprehensive Approach to School Safety

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by nSide: The School Safety Platform.

School safety is an ever-evolving task that requires the cooperation and participation of many stakeholders. nSide is an educational partner in school safety creating better learning environments for students and teachers. We are a full-scale platform that begins with prevention and planning to get you on the right track in implementing protection, mitigation, response, and recovery efforts.

Presenters

Sarah Ann Miller

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:25pm CDT
Rooms 201 & 202 Hot Springs Convention Center

Operations, School Safety

1:00pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Stop, Collaborate, and Listen: Actionable Strategies for Amplifying Student Voice

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Collaborative Classroom.

Research tells us that we cannot expect our students to excel academically unless they feel safe emotionally. As educators are still searching for ways to makeup for lost pandemic time, this session includes actionable strategies focused on student listening and voice as crucial catalysts to both "Maslow and Bloom."
Outcomes: After this session, participants will know and be able to implement rituals and routines that encourage all students in any classroom to reflect thoughtfully, speak confidently, and listen respectfully. Participants will also consider how building trusting relationships and rapport with students regulates their nervous systems and prepares them for learning. Finally (and perhaps most importantly), attendees will leave curious about other ways to put SEL research into practice across all subject areas/disciplines.
Engagement: This is a fun, high-energy, and interactive session. Participants will be asked to role play as students and actively engage in communication and collaboration routines that will translate to any classroom, school, or district.

Presenters

Elizabeth Sens

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 1:25pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Student Support

1:00pm CDT

I Know What You Did Last Cycle Report: Most Common HR Data Entry Errors

This session covers multiple state data systems and is good for district and school data entry personnel. Attendees will review the impact of data entry on all aspects of the educational reporting system.

Presenters

Matthew Sutherlin

Coordinator of Standards and Systems Support, Public School Accountability

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE

Sharlee Crowson

Educator Effectiveness Special Projects Coordinator, DESE

Sharlee Crowson has been a part of the DESE Educator Effectiveness team since 2016. During that time, she has worked in educator preparation, teacher recruitment, and educator workforce data.

Pearce Peacock

Trent Saracini

Educator Support System Specialist, ADE - DESE

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Data

1:00pm CDT

Teacher Recruitment, Scholarships, and Apprenticeships

Conflict: College is expensive and takes too long to be a teacher Solution: This session

Presenters

Alisha Lewis

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Division of Higher Education

Alisha Lewis began service to the Arkansas Department of Higher Education in March 2017 where she serves as the Associate Director of Communications. Through Arkansas State Transformation, her role transitioned to Chief Communication Director for the new encompassing Department... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

1:00pm CDT

Science Facilities Safety & Compliance

In this session, participants will review the role of administrators in meeting OSHA compliance concerning chemical hygiene plans, chemical storage, and waste disposal in high school science laboratories and facilities to ensure student and faculty safety.

Presenters

Cindy Bunch

State Science Specialist, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Science

1:00pm CDT

Screening and Early Intervention Literacy

In this session, participants will connect screener and diagnostic data with specific interventions that can be used to move students toward grade level proficiency.

Presenters

Sandy Shepard

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

1:00pm CDT

Creative Staff Benefits Roundtable

Arkansas districts are reassessing the conventional perks provided to teachers and staff, opting to provide additional benefits beyond the mandated ones to attract and maintain a high-caliber workforce. Join a panel of superintendents to discuss some of the things they are currently doing, lessons learned, and ideas regarding benefits they are looking into for the future.

Presenters

Eric Saunders

Associate Deputy Commissioner, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Finance

1:00pm CDT

How to start an infant and toddler program?

Learn how to start up a quality early childhood program for infants and toddlers in your school. Infant and toddler programs are vital to communities.

Presenters

Dawn Jeffrey

Assistant Director, Office of Early Childhood

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Early Childhood

1:00pm CDT

My School Info: Explore Public Data for Schools and Districts

My School Info brings multiple data sources together, allowing anyone with online access to search and compare public schools and districts across the state of Arkansas. Come learn how easy it is to navigate the system and discover how to use this wealth of information to make data-driven decisions. Create reports about your school or compare schools and districts in a variety of ways. No previous experience with My School Info is required, and participants are encouraged to bring a laptop to be able to actively participate in the demonstration.

Presenters

Jeff Killingsworth

Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy & Strategy, Arkansas Department of Education

Jeff Killingsworth was privileged to be in the classroom for 12 years, teaching a variety of math and science classes from kindergarten through eighth grade, before joining the Arkansas Department of Education. He is currently the Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, and... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

1:00pm CDT

Providing a Safe School by Avoiding Disability Discrimination: Section 504

This presentation will cover the most common misunderstandings/errors made under Section 504. We will discuss simple steps to avoid errors without overwhelming staff, students and families.

Presenters

Lance LeVar

Public School Program Advisor Section 504/Title IX, Federal Programs

Originally from Arkadelphia, Lance LeVar (he/him) has over two decades of experience as an educator including 15 years in administration at all levels of education. He served as a teacher, high school and elementary school assistant principal, middle school principal, and district... Read More →

Brianne Franks

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Legal

1:00pm CDT

School Safety Requirements and Available Resources

School safety is a priority. The school safety requirements included in recent legislation will be presented and discussed. Resources that are available to assist school districts in meeting these requirements will be identified.

Presenters

Cheryl May

Director, Criminal Justice Institute-University of Arkansas System

Dr. Cheryl P. May is the Director of the Criminal Justice Institute (CJI), its National Center for Rural Law Enforcement (NCRLE) and the Arkansas Center for School Safety (ACSS). She was appointed Director on July 1, 2010. She has served and been an advocate for the Arkansas law enforcement... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, School Safety

1:00pm CDT

SFSP Informational Session

An information session explaining the SFSP program requirements, standards, and application process to participate in the Summer Food Service Program. The SFSP can provide reimbursement for nutritious meals served to qualifying children when school is out of session.

Presenters

Perry Hunter

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

1:00pm CDT

De-escalation Curve

When students have trauma, adversity, chaos, inconsistency, or any number of other things piled on top of that, it is even more difficult for them to regulate their emotions. As a result, we need to be increasingly more skilled in our ability to de-escalate the moment and help our students return to a state of regulation. We're not offering quick fixes. We're offering the opportunity to learn how real change happens. In this one hour preview of our 6 hour workshop, we will focus on the process of escalation and de-escalation. What is important for us to know in the moment? Let’s clarify our goals and put a few tools in our belts.

Presenters

Nicole Fairchild

State Training Lead, Arkansas AWARE

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Student Support

1:00pm CDT

Student Success Plans

In this session, participants will explore the requirements for Student Success Plans, including the amendments enacted through the LEARNS Act. Join this session to review the minimum requirements for SSPs and to discuss the additional requirements now in place for identification and listing of the recommended sequence of courses for successful completion of a diploma pathway selected by the student, with the flexibility to change throughout high school and continue to ensure that the student will meet high school graduation requirements and leave high school qualified for their choice career path. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn and explore leveraging Student Success Plans to maximize each learner's educational experience.

Presenters

Lupe Peña de Martínez

Director of Student Support Services, ADE-DESE

Lupe Peña de Martínez is a native of San Diego de Alejandria, Jalisco, México. Recently celebrating her 26-year anniversary as an Arkansan, having moved to the Natural State in July 1998, by way of California. Her husband, Adelso, is a native of Belize and they have a beautiful... Read More →

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Hope Worsham

Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability, Arkansas Department of Education

Ross White

Director-Division of Career and Technical Education, Arkansas Department of Education

Ross White, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), brings a wealth of CTE experience and knowledge to the division. Before serving as vice principal at Siloam Springs High School, a position he has held since July 2019, White was the director of the school’s CTE program... Read More →

Monday July 8, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Student Support

1:35pm CDT

[Vendor Session] 3 Tips to Apply for High-Impact Tutoring Grant: How Nettleton Launched High Impact Tutoring in 3 weeks

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Air Reading.

This session will walk you through how to apply for the latest High-Impact Tutoring Grant step by step, so you can be confident about receiving the additional resources for your students. Additionally, we will share best practices about choosing and implementing a high-quality tutoring program that plug-and-play in your current system, expand your intervention capacity, and excite the principals, teachers, and students.

Presenters

David Stoyanov

Monday July 8, 2024 1:35pm - 2:00pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction

1:35pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Synchronous Virtual Instruction: Strategic Placements for District Pain Points

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Proximity Learning.

Faced with a critical teacher shortage, Texas districts are increasingly leveraging strategic partnerships with educational technology companies to provide content-certified instruction to some of our most vulnerable students. In this session, Proximity Learning will highlight case studies of the successful implementation of our Live Instruction Model in Texas and across the country in both special education and general education classrooms.

Monday July 8, 2024 1:35pm - 2:00pm CDT
Rooms 201 & 202 Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction

2:00pm CDT

Afternoon Snack Break

Join us in the Expo Hall for a snack and beverage break, including:

Gourmet cookies, blondies, and brownies
Assorted bagged chips and snacks, assorted bagged nuts
Coffee, hot tea, iced tea, bottled water, Gatorade, assorted soft drinks
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Monday July 8, 2024 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D Hot Springs Convention Center

General

2:20pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Your STEM Ally- Fund Your STEM Vision with PLTW for PK-12 Alignment

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Project Lead the Way.

Join national STEM & Career Readiness organization Project Lead The Way to lean how you can create a seamless, vertically aligned PK-12 STEM program for your schools! Participants will discover PLTW's unique activity-, project-, and problem-based approach to STEM instruction, with an overview of their five pathways and resources they can leverage to fund it all. Let Project Lead The Way be your STEM ally for continued success!

Presenters

Mary Wilson Arrasmith

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 2:45pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, STEM

2:20pm CDT

Foundations of Reading (FOR) Assessment

What is the FOR assessment and how is it used in Arkansas.

Presenters

Lori Kroeger

Senior Area Director, Evaluation Systems group of Pearson

Dr. Kroeger is a Senior Area Director with Evaluation Systems providing direct support to California Programs (Induction, Preliminary, and Intern) that are supporting candidates who are completing edTPA. Dr. Kroeger has worked directly with national and district-based alternative... Read More →

Traci Vegh

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

2:20pm CDT

Leading While I'm Still Learning: Navigating Inclusive Practices

Have you ever had to lead the implementation of a district or state initiative without having expert knowledge on the topic? Then, this session is for you! This session delves into strategies for leading implementation of inclusive practices for students with disabilities, acknowledging that principals are also learners in this journey. Explore how leaders navigate the complexities while continuously learning. Discover how these leaders embrace ongoing learning to better understand expectations, foster these strategies, and effectively support diverse student populations. Gain insights, share experiences, and empower yourself to lead while continuously growing!

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital

2:20pm CDT

High School to Postsecondary Math Pathways

This session will explore best practices for advising secondary math course selection for diploma pathways and their alignment with postsecondary goals.

Presenters

Tina Moore

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT

Instruction, Math

2:20pm CDT

Neuromyths

Throughout our careers we have been told certain things and perhaps never questioned if they were true. However, through research findings from the science of learning, many practices and beliefs in education have been shown to either have no effect on learning or in some cases hinder learning. While we will debunk three common beliefs, we will also show you what you to do to increase student achievement. This session will help you to not only be a more effective educator, but also more efficient as you may realize that some things you are doing can be stopped.

Presenters

Eric Saunders

Associate Deputy Commissioner, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Instruction

2:20pm CDT

The Writing Revolution

This session will provide an overview of the Writing Revolution in Arkansas. Participants will receive an overview of the Hochman Method writing strategies along with ways to leverage writing in every grade and content area. Participants will learn about the various training opportunities that will be provided this fall.

Presenters

Alexandria Chalonec

Amber Pirnique

Disciplinary Literacy Program Manager, Arkansas Department of Education

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

2:20pm CDT

Data Analysis - Let's talk about the Life Cycle of a Data Element

Have you ever wondered what happens to your data after it is submitted in state reporting? In this session we will follow the life cycle of a data element. Learn how and when the information you enter in eSchool and submit through state reporting is used to calculate the Adjusted Cohort Graduation Rate and where it goes from there into accountability and reporting. Learn how student IDs, grade levels, demographics, entry/withdrawal codes impact the final products.

Presenters

Denise Airola

Director, Office of Innovation for Education

Denise Airola founded the Office of Innovation for Education (OIE) at the University of Arkansas in 2013 with a grant from the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE). The OIE focuses on enabling and accelerating innovative policies and practices to address barriers to educational... Read More →

Jill Johnson

APSCN Student Applications Manager, Arkansas Department of Education

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

2:20pm CDT

Do you want to outsource your Child Nutrition Programs?

This hour long session will cover the pros and cons of outsourcing, state and federal regulatory requirements, the RFP process, types of contracts and the differences in those contracts.

Presenters

Nancy Dill

Melissa Ray

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition, Finance

2:20pm CDT

Rules Update

This session will provide an overview of new and recently updated rules and regs.

Presenters

Stacy Smith

Deputy Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Courtney Salas-Ford

Chief Legal Counsel, ADE

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Legal

2:20pm CDT

School Safety Requirements and Available Resources

Presenters

Cheryl May

Director, Criminal Justice Institute-University of Arkansas System

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, School Safety

2:20pm CDT

CTE Funding

This session will identify the different avenues for funding Career and Technical Education programs with local, state, federal and partnership funds.

Presenters

Ross White

Director-Division of Career and Technical Education, Arkansas Department of Education

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Pathways Beyond High School

2:20pm CDT

Impacting Student Achievement from the Boardroom to the Classroom

School board monthly agendas are now required to address student achievement. What aligned systems do schools have to monitor student learning, and what processes are utilized to present data on student achievement? Learn how school districts are onboarding school board members to create shared knowledge and vocabulary to provide a clear understanding of student expectations and achievements presented monthly.

Presenters

Marica Smith

Melissa Fink

Assistant Superintendent P-7, Springdale Public Schools

Ms. Melissa Fink is the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Innovation for Springdale Schools. She is currently pursuing a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Arkansas. Prior to this, she earned a Masters degree in arts and... Read More →

Shannon Tischer

Assistant Superintendent 8-12, Springdale Public Schools

Ms. Shannon Tisher is the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Instruction, and Innovation 8-12 Springdale Schools. She earned a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Arkansas. Prior to this, she earned a Masters degree in building level administration... Read More →

Nick Emmerson

Board Member, Springdale Public Schools

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Professional Learning Communities

2:20pm CDT

McKinney-Vento & Foster Students: Strategies to Effectively Serve Both Populations

ESSA, McKinney-Vento, Fostering Connections, and many other laws have been providing education stability for children in out-of-home care. These laws recognize the need for school stability and continuity for these highly mobile children. However, each provides a different set of rights and responsibilities. This presentation will provide an overview of the overlap between the laws, and the critical importance of collaboration between the education and child welfare systems to appropriately serve the needs of children in out-of-home care.

Presenters

David Terrell

Public School Program Coordinator, ADE

David Terrell earned his bachelor’s degree in politics from the prestigious University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, before returning home to Arkansas to bring his heart’s passion to help children through his work. David has immersed himself in both the research and practices... Read More →

Jessica Hickman

Public-School Program Advisor - McKinney-Vento, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, McKinney-Vento

2:20pm CDT

Tier I

ACA §6-20-2204 requires Superintendents and bookkeepers to attend a minimum of 2 hours of annual training on school laws, expenditure of school funds, fiscal accountability, school finance, ethics, and financial accounting and reporting. This class meets the requirements of the law. Additionally, school districts are required to provide 2 hours of Tier II training. Some districts choose to use this course to meet that requirement.

Presenters

Sharon Chuculate

Financial Services Coordinator, AR Association of Educational Administrtors

Monday July 8, 2024 2:20pm - 4:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Finance

2:55pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Plan in Seconds, Not Weekends with Quizizz AI

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Quizizz.

Learn how to plan or help your teachers plan in seconds, not weekends, using Quizizz AI. Explore our newest features, including Common Assessments, Accommodation Profiles, and more.

Presenters

Melissa Trout

Monday July 8, 2024 2:55pm - 3:20pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction

3:40pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Informational Text and The 'Ing' Factor: Engaging Students and Increasing Comprehension Through Reading and Writing

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by American Book Company.

Explore learner-centered, active strategies to support content mastery and improve literacy skills. Experience reading strategies to improve comprehension and retention of critical content. Discover a variety of writing techniques that allow students to deepen their learning experiences and demonstrate their mastery of content. The ability to communicate and question is critical in and beyond our classrooms. We will take literacy to the next level with strategies designed for immediate implementation. Literacy matters!

Presenters

Lauren Kennedy

Leah Wetzler

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:05pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

3:40pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Soft Skills the Missing Piece

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Jakapa.

Schools focus on academic and technical skills, but soft skills gaps are the culprit for persistent achievement gaps. Participants will learn the soft skills they should be explicitly teaching and the criteria for a high-quality soft skills program that fosters a culture where soft skills are taught and reinforced.

Presenters

Lisa Riegel

Patti Koslo

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:05pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Student Support

3:40pm CDT

Assessment Embedded in Instruction: Growing and Assessing Your Candidates Through EdTPA

What is the educative teacher performance assessment EdTPA and how can it be used in the new licensure rules?

Presenters

Lori Kroeger

Senior Area Director, Evaluation Systems group of Pearson

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

3:40pm CDT

Educator Effectiveness System Updates

Attendees will review updates, reports, and the new integrated Classroom Walkthrough options.

Presenters

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE

Pearce Peacock

Trent Saracini

Educator Support System Specialist, ADE - DESE

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

3:40pm CDT

Accelerated Opportunities

What is acceleration? How do I implement acceleration? What are considerations to ensure appropriateness of acceleration decisions? What long term planning needs to occur in order to provide acceleration? How do I develop flexible K-12 acceleration policy to support the learners in my district?

Acceleration can be a low or no cost option to utilize to ensure that students are receiving appropriate levels of instruction and experience growth in their learning. Many people think of grade skipping when they hear acceleration, and while that is one type of acceleration, options for implementation of accelerated learning are much broader. Join us to learn more about accelerated learning and ways you can implement these opportunities for the learners in your district.

Presenters

Krystal Nail

Director, Office of GT & AP, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Amanda Peebles

Program Advisor, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction

3:40pm CDT

Don't Be a Dummy! Leverage Artificial Intelligence to Work Smarter!

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence? We've got you covered! Our upcoming session will leave you feeling empowered and equipped to leverage the power of AI to work smarter, not harder. During the session, we'll explore ways that AI tools can support your time and creativity, helping you find that sweet spot. You'll walk away with a newfound confidence in your ability to harness the power of AI and take your work to the next level. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills and streamline your workload.

Presenters

Jillana Heard

Rebecca Mills

Instructional Coach, Virtual Arkansas

Brandie Benton

Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, Virtual Arkansas

Dr. Brandie Benton has over 20 years of experience in education and is currently leading the Curriculum and Instruction team for Virtual Arkansas, the state virtual school charged with providing digital learning services to districts across Arkansas.

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction

3:40pm CDT

You Don't Need Superpowers to Collect Data Daily

In this session, participants will discuss practical K-5 ELA data collection tools and methods for classroom teachers to use to determine how well their students have mastered specific literacy content.

Presenters

Andress Scott

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

3:40pm CDT

Arkansas Cyber Laws: Updates on Acts 504, 754, and 846

Join a discussion on three laws passed during the 2023 Arkansas Regular Session that aim to increase cybersecurity and data privacy for school districts. Topics will include the latest information on timelines, procedures, and resources for the K12 Cybersecurity Policy (Act 504), the Student Data Vendor Security Act (Act 754), and the Arkansas Self-Funded Cyber Response Program (Act 846).

Presenters

Jeff Killingsworth

Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy & Strategy, Arkansas Department of Education

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Legal, Cybersecurity

3:40pm CDT

At-Risk Meal Options for Schools and Afterschool Care Providers

An information session explaining the CACFP At-Risk program requirements, standards, and application process to participate in the At-Risk after school meal program. The CACFP At-Risk can provide reimbursement for nutritious meals served to children in low-income communities when school has concluded for the day.

Presenters

Perry Hunter

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

3:40pm CDT

Providing a Safe School by Avoiding Sex Discrimination: Title IX

This session will provide a brief overview of all Title IX responsibilities and then focus on the updated rules expected to go into effect this summer.

Presenters

Lance LeVar

Public School Program Advisor Section 504/Title IX, Federal Programs

Alisha Price

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Legal

3:40pm CDT

Triand Revamped

Triand, the state's electronic transcript system, has been redesigned! Come take a look at the redesigned system and learn where to find all of the things that you will need to know.

Presenters

Angel Peugh

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

3:40pm CDT

What Can Early Childhood Local Leads Do For You?

Arkansas has been awarded the opportunity to have Local Leads for the first time ever. We will give you tips on how to participate in your local lead in your school district.

Presenters

Jennifer Douglas

Assistant Director, ADE: DESE Office of Early Childhood

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Early Childhood

3:40pm CDT

Building Capacity in School-Wide Positive Behavior Supports: The BX3 Project

The BX3 Project focuses on capacity building by coaching building-level teams to develop a tiered-system of positive behavior supports for all students. Join us to discover more about the BX3 Project and hear the successes achieved by BX3 teams.

Presenters

Dr. Sheila Smith

Arkansas Behavior Support Specialist Coordinator, Arch Ford Education Service Coop

Dr. Shelia Smith is a Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst with over 17 years working with students, parents and schools. She received a doctorate in school psychology from the University of Central Arkansas and further education in the area of Applied Behavior... Read More →

Sonia Hartsfield

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support

3:40pm CDT

Career Ready Pathways

Learn about the new Career Ready Pathway to Diploma and opportunities for students to earn distinction as an Arkansas high school graduate.

Presenters

Ross White

Director-Division of Career and Technical Education, Arkansas Department of Education

Monday July 8, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Pathways Beyond High School

4:15pm CDT

[Vendor Session] From Frustration to Fascination: How High-Impact Tutoring with BookNook Transforms Student Learning

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Booknook.

Feeling overwhelmed by student struggles? Witness the transformation from frustration to fascination with High-Impact Tutoring powered by BookNook! Join BookNook and our Arkansas educator partners for a high-energy panel discussion. We'll tackle your biggest questions and showcase how BookNook seamlessly integrates with your existing programs:

Does HIT really work?
- See the data and hear firsthand from educators who've seen results with struggling students, even within intervention time.
Is HIT easy to implement, especially with diverse learners?
- Uncover the secrets to successful implementation. BookNook's individualized approach caters to each student's needs, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Have you been worried about the grant process?
- Our panel will explain it and guide you through data tracking with BookNook's user-friendly platform.
This session is perfect for:
- Educators seeking innovative tutoring solutions
- Leaders looking to boost student achievement for ALL learners
- Anyone passionate about helping kids succeed!

Presenters

Melody Kimbrell

Monday July 8, 2024 4:15pm - 4:40pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction

4:15pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Creating a Community of Care

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by School Responder.

For the last 13 years, Dr. C.J. Huff has worked with nearly 100 school districts across 10 states to facilitate lasting school and community partnerships to create the support our students and schools need, now more than ever.

Participants will leave this session with tips and proven strategies to 1) leverage relationships and expand community partnerships, 2) utilize technology as a tool for meaningful engagement, 3) build community leadership capacity to align and lead local efforts, and 4) build a safe and supportive culture between the school and community.

Presenters

CJ Huff

Monday July 8, 2024 4:15pm - 4:40pm CDT
Rooms 201 & 202 Hot Springs Convention Center

Operations, School Safety

Tag Exhibitor

4:40pm CDT

District Team Debrief

School/District teams will have the opportunity to meet during this time and share what they learned.

Monday July 8, 2024 4:40pm - 5:40pm CDT
Exhibit Hall B Hot Springs Convention Center

General

7:30am CDT

Registration

Tuesday July 9, 2024 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center

General

7:30am CDT

Morning Snacks

Join us in the Expo Hall for snacks and beverages including:

Assorted breakfast breads and petite muffins
Individual yogurts with granola
Fresh seasonal fruit
Freshly b

Tuesday July 9, 2024 7:30am - 9:00am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D Hot Springs Convention Center

General

8:30am CDT

[KEYNOTE] Changing the Narrative

When is the last time something amazing happened in your school? How many people knew about it? The work done in schools all across the globe is spectacular. Kids gather…learn…leave…and make the world we live in a better place. So…amazing things happen all the time. School perception is often based on the narrative of those who attended years ago. Telling the real story of schools helps create a narrative that gives everyone in your community an identity. Utilizing social media and empowering those around you to be the storytellers of your district is a great way to celebrate the success of students with parents and the community. FIND YOUR AUDIENCE...BUILD YOUR BRAND...CELEBRATE KIDS!!

Presenters

Joe Sanfelippo

Superintendent, Fall Creek School District

Dr. Joe Sanfelippo is the Superintendent of the Fall Creek School District in Fall Creek, WI...home of the Fall Creek Crickets. The Fall Creek School District was named an Innovative District in 2016 and 2017 by the International Center for Leadership in Education. Joe holds a BA... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center

General

10:20am CDT

[Vendor Session] Rights, Roles, and Responsibilities: Ethical Boundaries

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Arkansas State Teachers Association.

Let us help you navigate the ever changing landscape of education. This session will focus on your role in self advocacy and accountability while maintaining ethical and professional boundaries.

Presenters

Allison Greenwood

Amy Douglas

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 10:45am CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

10:20am CDT

Co-Creating Educator Preparation Programs through Collaborative Partnerships

Building Partnerships and Capacity between Educator Preparation Programs and Districts to implement Aspiring Teacher Permits, Apprenticeships, and Yearlong Residency

Presenters

Melissa Jacks

Program Manager, Educator Licensure, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Karli Saracini

Assistant Commissioner of Educator Effectiveness & Licensure, Arkansas Department of Education

Matthew Sutherlin

Coordinator of Standards and Systems Support, Public School Accountability

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

10:20am CDT

Nurturing Novice Teachers through Mentoring: Retention is the New Recruitment

This session will focus on the importance of retention of teachers through the process of mentoring. Mentoring Updates, New Curriculum, and Preparing for Yearlong Residents will be discussed.

Presenters

Angie Gilbert

State Mentoring Specialist, DESE

Stephanie Hall

Cheryl Blue

Recruitment and Retention Facilitator, APSSRC

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

10:20am CDT

Elevate Math: Dive into K-5 AR Standards

Join us for our Elevate Math session as we delve into the K-5 math standards for Tier 1 instruction. Gain valuable insights into essential grade-level concepts and effective teaching strategies to foster student success. Participants will navigate the learning progression of these standards, developing an understanding of key concepts and skills vital for student achievement. Through interactive discussions and activities, attendees will uncover practical instructional strategies and resources to support Tier 1 classroom instruction. Let's elevate math education together!

Presenters

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education

Britney Nalley

Jeffrey Nesmith

Central Region Math Specialist, DESE

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Math

10:20am CDT

Targeting Science Foundational Skills Instruction: Key Levers for Instructional Leaders

In this session, participants will examine the key levers to elevate science foundational skills instruction and learning outcomes. Participants will walk away with an in-depth understanding of observation "Look Fors" in the impact areas of Structures for Learning, Aligned Content, Direct Instruction and Student Practice

Presenters

Katie Chacon

Pearce Peacock

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Science

10:20am CDT

The Magic of the ATLAS Classroom Tool

Step into the realm of empowered teaching with our session dedicated to unleashing the potential of the ATLAS portal's classroom assessment tool. Here, educators can seamlessly craft assessments tailored to their instructional goals, drawing from a comprehensive bank of items or creating their own. Imagine the convenience of having student assessments and data seamlessly integrated into the same system as interims and summative tests, streamlining your insights for a holistic understanding.

This invaluable tool not only aids in crafting meaningful assessments but also provides a panoramic view of student performance, from individual standards to district-wide aggregates. Elevate your role as an instructional leader by harnessing the power of this tool to refine your message and strategies for improving student achievement. Let us guide you in navigating the wealth of data and transforming it into actionable steps that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on both educators and students. Join us as we embark on a journey toward educational excellence together.

Presenters

Michelle Johnson

Director of Assessment, Department of Elementary & Secondary Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Assessment

10:20am CDT

The Writing Revolution

Presenters

Alexandria Chalonec

Amber Pirnique

Disciplinary Literacy Program Manager, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

10:20am CDT

Accreditation: Floor Not the Ceiling

Join us as we look into the latest additions in Monitoring, emphasizing the pivotal role of quality and its intersection with compliance. Let's explore together how these elements contribute to effective leadership.

Presenters

Brooke McCain

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Accountability

10:20am CDT

Child Nutrition Update

A recap of the last years successes and an overview of what to expect in the upcoming school year.

Presenters

Sheila Chastain

Associate Director, Finance and Training, Child Nutrition Unit, DESE, ADE

Sheila Chastain is the Child Nutrition Unit, Associate Director Finance and Training. She has been assigned to various positions within the Child Nutrition Unit for the last 27 years. Ms. Chastain supervises a group 5 professionals within the Child Nutrition Unit who will provide... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

10:20am CDT

CyberPatriot: Become a Tech Caregiver

The Tech Caregiver Program is a program where student and adult volunteers can receive a certification to offer cybersecurity support to those adults who are often vulnerable to cyber threats due to a lack of technological experience and knowledge. The goal of this program is to encourage those with cybersecurity knowledge to give back to the community by helping older populations recognize, understand, and safely avoid the online scams they are so often the target. The programs would be a great opportunities for high school students to earn community service hours.

Presenters

Jo Ann Womack

Technology Coordinator, South Central Service Cooperative

Jo Ann Womack is an experienced Technology Coordinator at South Central Service Cooperative and Vice Chair of the ACTC (Arkansas Cooperative Technology Coordinator). She is also a member of the AR STEM Model Program Core Leadership Team. She has a demonstrated history of working in... Read More →

Brook Singletary

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations

10:20am CDT

School Finance Tools & Resources

This comprehensive training will empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the complex landscape of school funding, budget development, and financial sustainability.
During this session, participants will explore the critical components of school budgets, including revenue sources, expenditure projections, funding aid calculations and the practical tools available to assist with developing your school budget.

Presenters

Eric Saunders

Associate Deputy Commissioner, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Jason Miller

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Finance

10:20am CDT

Special Education School Age Reporting Requirements

This session will provide an overview of Special Education School Age reporting requirements for Cycle 4 and Cycle 7

Presenters

Khala Quarles

Training Coordinator, IDEA Data and Research

Khala Quarles is the Training Coordinator for IDEA Data and Research. Khala is responsible for training Special Education staff in the great State of Arkansas on all federal data reporting requirements annually using eSchool and MySped portals. Working in the education sector for... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

10:20am CDT

Migrant Recruitment with IDRC - How it can help!

As a consortium member state, there are many benefits available to tutor/recruiters across the state. We will take a deep dive into the tools available to you as well as, review what the latest statistical agriculture reports tell us, to maximize your recruitment efforts. All of these tools are right at your fingertips!

Presenters

Ashley Hulan

Migrant R.E.D.S, AR MEP

Heidi Harris

Migrant REDS, Wilbur D Mills Ed Svcs Coop

LaRanda Clayton

Migrant REDS, AR MEP - DMESC

I work for the Title I-Migrant Education Program. I work with tutors and recruiters across the state to ensure compliance with the identification & recruitment requirements for our program. I also compile the Migrant data for the Arkansas CSPR. I want educators in Arkansas to know... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Student Support, Migrant

10:20am CDT

Parent & Community Engagement

When all stakeholders engage in strong partnerships, a wider variety of supports are available to develop the whole child. This session focuses on profound strategies for building partnerships with community assets to support student success

Presenters

Freddie Scott

Engagement Operations Manager, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Freddie Scott has a varied career that spans more than thirty years of team building and professional services marketing encompassing education, health, technology, and entrepreneurship consulting. Freddie was recently inducted into the 2023 class of the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Student Support, Family & Community Engagement

10:20am CDT

The Impact of 30 Second Moments

960. That is the number of 30 second increments we get in an 8 hour day. 960 chances to change a life. 960 opportunities to share a story. 960 times to make a student, parent, or community member feel like they are part of your school. Moments have the ability to stick in our brain forever. A sight, smell, or taste brings us back to our childhood. We have a responsibility to be intentional about how we utilize these moments. The fact is simply this...you will be remembered, the only question is how. Every 30 seconds matter.

Presenters

Joe Sanfelippo

Superintendent, Fall Creek School District

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Student Support, Family & Community Engagement

10:55am CDT

[Vendor Session] Teachers, Tutors, and (Speech) Therapists – oh my!

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Imagine Learning.

According to Education Week, Arkansas saw a 49% decline in teacher-preparation program enrollees from 2008-2021. This unfortunately led to vacancies in many classrooms across the state. Districts in AR and around the country are embracing creative teaching strategies through our partnership.
Imagine Learning provides:
1. Credentialed, qualified, experienced, and enthusiastic teachers.
2. Targeted Instructors, meeting intervention and English Language Development needs.
3. Speech tele-therapists, delivering IEP minutes and keeping districts in compliance.
Please join us to learn more about how Imagine Learning can assist your district in overcoming teacher shortages and virtual school challenges.

Presenters

Mandi Thomas

Tuesday July 9, 2024 10:55am - 11:20am CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Human Capital

11:40am CDT

[Vendor Session] Doing Mathematics vs Knowing Mathematics: Bringing Back Problem Solving & Perseverance

SESSION VENDOR: This session is sponsored by Hardin Consulting.

Come learn about what it means for our students to really do Mathematics and not just know Mathematics. What do our teachers need to help our students make deep connections between Mathematical relationships so that they are more successful when faced with difficult tasks? Topics discussed will apply to whole group and small group instruction as well as intervention groups.

Presenters

Heather Hardin

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:05pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, Math

11:40am CDT

I Know What You Did Last Cycle Report: Most Common HR Data Entry Errors

Presenters

Matthew Sutherlin

Coordinator of Standards and Systems Support, Public School Accountability

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE

Sharlee Crowson

Educator Effectiveness Special Projects Coordinator, DESE

Sharlee Crowson has been a part of the DESE Educator Effectiveness team since 2016. During that time, she has worked in educator preparation, teacher recruitment, and educator workforce data.

Pearce Peacock

Trent Saracini

Educator Support System Specialist, ADE - DESE

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Data

11:40am CDT

Creating Small Groups that are Really Flexible

In this session, participants will learn how to use data to create flexible K-5 small groups for literacy.

Presenters

Alicia Whiteside

Kelly Stone

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

11:40am CDT

Figure Out Fluency in Mathematics

This session is about mastering the basic facts of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, which is an essential goal for all students. Explore teaching, practicing (games), and assessing ideas for foundational facts and derived fact strategies.

Presenters

Jennifer Bay-Williams

Professor & Interim Associate Dean of Academic Affairs & Accreditation, University of Louisville

Jennifer M. Bay-Williams is a mathematics teacher educator at the University of Louisville, Kentucky. She has written many articles and books related to K–12 mathematics education, including the popular Elementary and Middle School Mathematics: Teaching Developmentally and the related... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Math

11:40am CDT

Future-Forward Leadership: Harnessing AI for Arkansas Schools

Technology is evolving at an incredible pace and we have reached a potential inflection point where education can truly be transformed through the capabilities of artificial intelligence. This session is designed to equip educators with the information, knowledge, and foresight necessary to navigate issues and conversations around artificial intelligence and how to leverage AI tools and technologies to support your local goals and future-proof your Arkansas school district!

Presenters

John Ashworth

Executive Director & Superintendent, Virtual Arkansas

Mr. John Ashworth is the Superintendent and Executive Director of Virtual Arkansas, a State Virtual School (SVS) providing supplemental online course options to Arkansas schools. Mr. Ashworth spent eight years as a secondary science teacher and seven years as a building-level principal... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction

11:40am CDT

Teaching Science with Traveler

The Arkansas State Library’s Traveler Statewide Resources are a valuable collection of educational resources free to every Arkansas resident. This session will take a closer look at the supplemental resources available for Science teachers including Science Online and Today’s Science from InfoBase, science experiments, documentaries, and more.

Presenters

Katie Walton

Manager of Acquisitions, Arkansas State Library

Katie Walton is the Acquisitions Manager for the Arkansas State Library. In addition to purchasing materials for the library's collection, Katie oversees the Arkansas Traveler Statewide Databases and the Arkansas Digital Library Consortium. She has experience in school, academic... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Science

11:40am CDT

Creating a Climate of School Safety and Security

Presentation on lessons learned from prior Active Assailant events and how to better secure your schools. Discuss total buy-in from administration, faculty/staff, and students. Explain School Safety Commission’s safety recommendations and best policies.

Presenters

Jason Weatherly

Safe School Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education - DESE

Jerry Keefer

Arkansas Safe Schools Director, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, School Safety

11:40am CDT

eSchool: What You Need to Know for School Year 2025

During this session we will delve into the additions to state reporting requirements and changes to some eSchoolPLUS processes for 2024-2025. This session would benefit all eSchool data entry users.

Presenters

Monica Haider

APSCN Field Representative, ADE

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

11:40am CDT

Establishing Partnerships to Expand Early Childhood Programs

This session will focus on partnerships in early childhood. These partnerships include both school partnerships with community early childhood programs and partnering with the business community to create and support early childhood.

Presenters

Onika Luster

Mary Oliver

Program Manager, ADE - Office of Early Childhood

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Early Childhood

11:40am CDT

Hot Topics with ADE Leadership

Join members of the ADE leadership team as they discuss hot topics in education in Arkansas.

Presenters

Stacy Smith

Deputy Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Hope Worsham

Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability, Arkansas Department of Education

Matt Sewell

Assistant Commissioner, DESE

Ross White

Director-Division of Career and Technical Education, Arkansas Department of Education

Tonya Williams

Karli Saracini

Assistant Commissioner of Educator Effectiveness & Licensure, Arkansas Department of Education

Darrell Smith

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations

11:40am CDT

Moving to 5 Year Monitoring Review Cycle

While USDA is allowing State Agencies to move from a 3 year to a 5 year monitoring review cycle, it isn't as easy as CNU staff just showing up every 5 years. This session will introduce the "risk assessment" that is required in order to move to a 5 year cycle. Ms. Jackson will also discuss what will trigger a review more often than every 5 years.

Presenters

Krista Jackson

Program Operations, Child Nutrition, ADE, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Krista Jackson is the Associate Director of Program Operations with the Child Nutrition Unit. Ms. Jackson has 14 years of experience working in Child Nutrition. She currently trains, hires, and supports Area Specialist who administer the Administrative and Procurement Reviews in... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition, Finance

11:40am CDT

School Health Mandates: What Every Administrator Should Know

This session provides a foundational understanding of what every administrator must know in order to ensure program integrity related to school health programming, including Medicaid operations, health improvement planning, mental health programming best practices

Presenters

Jerri Clark

School Health Services Director, DESE

Dana Bennett

47, Medicaid In The Schools -MITS

The Medicaid In The Schools (MITS) program serves a a liaison for local education Agencies (LEA) to support the administratin of school based Medicaid reimbursements.

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, School Health

11:40am CDT

Concurrent Teacher Qualifications

This session will elaborate on how we best utilize the concurrent model so students are prepared for college. Explore the best practices so you are ready for the successful partnership between your district and college. We will even explore ways to maximize student's access to Arkansas Concurrent Challenge.

Presenters

Mason Campbell

Assistant Director for Policy and Student Success, Arkansas Division of Higher Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support

11:40am CDT

Implementing a Successful High-Impact Tutoring Program

Arkansas Tutoring Corps, Springdale School District, and University of Arkansas teacher candidates will share their experiences in successfully partnering to implement high-dosage tutoring during the school day. We will also share strategies for implementing best practices, including scheduling, training, support, progress monitoring, and tutor recruitment.

Arkansas Tutoring Corps is a tutor recruitment and training program for literacy and math in grades K-8. It also serves as a High-Impact Tutoring Grant and Arkansas Literacy Tutoring option, offering high-dosage tutoring in person or virtually.

Presenters

Lindsey Calhoun

Director, Education Renewal Zone, UA ERZ

Tracie Jones

ERZ Director, Office of ERZ at UAM

Office of ERZProfessional Learning CommunitiesArkansas Tutoring CorpsCurriculum Alignment Essential SkillsAssessment Proficiency ScalesCollaborative Teams

Melissa Fink

Assistant Superintendent P-7, Springdale Public Schools

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support

11:40am CDT

Migrant Recruiter Safety

Attendees will have a clear understanding of the most efficient methods to prepare for and ensure their safety while recruiting in the homes, in the workplaces, and in the community.

Presenters

Jessica Castaneda

Tuesday July 9, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Migrant

12:15pm CDT

[Vendor Session] EVERFI's Digital Tools to Support the Whole Child

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by EVERFI.

EVERFI provides cost-free, K-12 web-based resources to help address critical skills around early language acquisition, financial literacy, career readiness, social-emotional learning, and more! This session will give you the tools needed to teach these critical concepts and for students to apply them in real-life scenarios. Our Arkansas standards-aligned online resources span elementary through high school and are suited for online and in-person classroom settings. All courses presented have closed captioning, built-in Spanish translation and are available at no cost, thanks to our sponsors!

Presenters

Camille Weishun

Tuesday July 9, 2024 12:15pm - 12:40pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction

1:00pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Navigating with Dyslexia - K-12 & The Other Side

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by EmpathEd.

Francesca, a current college student, shares her story of being diagnosed with Dyslexia and how she advocated for herself through her K-12 years to find personal and academic success. She discusses how having a Learning Disability powers her through life. She answers: What are the accommodations and techniques that she uses in a learning environment? What is her mindset? What can people around her do to best support her?
Perspective is also shared by her mom, Kirsten - an educator and business leader, on how to best support your child or student with a Learning Disability.

Presenters

Francesca Cademartori

Kirsten Bronkovic

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 1:25pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, Literacy

1:00pm CDT

The Goldilocks Effect: Pathways to Licensure

PPTL, MAT, ArPEP and many, many more! If you or someone you know wants to become a teacher, this session explores the many traditional and alternative pathways to licensure. Come discover the option that is "Just Right" for you!

Presenters

Melissa Jacks

Program Manager, Educator Licensure, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Stephanie Hall

Capri Bell-Salam

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Licensure

1:00pm CDT

Arkansas STEM Model Program

All students deserve access to STEM teaching and learning to reach their potential as problem solvers and creative thinkers in the 21st Century. Hear from school leaders about how and why their STEM/STEAM schools are establishing and sustaining vibrant schoolwide STEM programs. Featuring the strategies, conditions, and practices of successful AR STEM Model Schools.

Presenters

Michele Snyder

State STEM Integration Specialist, Arkansas Department of Education Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

AR STEM Model Program, AR Ready for STEM Initiative, STEM Integration, Arts Integration, K-8 STEM career competencies

Jason Bailey

Project Lead The Way Gateway Grant Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

13 years classroom experiencePhysics, Biology, Earth Science, Environmental ScienceBSE - Life Science EducationMED - Gifted and Creative EducationHigh Quality Science Education STATEWIDE

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, STEM

1:00pm CDT

ATLAS Update

What about a session that just gives a general update on processes?
classroom tool, system updates, standards setting, when scores released, data training

Presenters

Michelle Johnson

Director of Assessment, Department of Elementary & Secondary Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Assessment

1:00pm CDT

Figure Out Fluency in Mathematics

Presenters

Jennifer Bay-Williams

Professor & Interim Associate Dean of Academic Affairs & Accreditation, University of Louisville

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Math

1:00pm CDT

Leading the Implementation of the Science of Reading for Higher Student Achievement

Using data to show that students taught by teachers who have a deep understanding of SOR lead to higher test scores and providing ideas for leaders in how they can better support their teachers

Presenters

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Hope Worsham

Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability, Arkansas Department of Education

Denise Airola

Director, Office of Innovation for Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

1:00pm CDT

Making the Most of Community Service

In this session, participants will learn how to maximize opportunities for students to fulfill the community service graduation requirements. We will explore ways in which schools can partner with organizations, provide ample opportunities for students to volunteer their time during and outside of school hours, and also match the appropriate service to the students level of leadership. Finally, participants will discuss ways to engage students in community service as an authentic, real-world learning experience.

Presenters

Amber Pirnique

Disciplinary Literacy Program Manager, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction

1:00pm CDT

Texthelp's Best Solutions for Core Instruction

MTSS, accessibility, and accountability are helping drive many inclusion initiatives in North America. Educational leaders are turning to award-winning products from Texthelp to help students learn on grade-level and in general education classrooms with their peers. Textelp’s CORE inclusion products will be overviewed and attendees will learn how “the CORE is greater than the sum of its parts.” Enlightened states like Arkansas, Indiana, Georgia and more are combining these tools to provide comprehensive inclusive supports to help students learn and succeed independently. Join us to see how the future of inclusive learning is already in our midst.

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy, Assessment

1:00pm CDT

Choose Me: The Changing Landscape of School Choice

As school choice expands in our state, local school districts face both challenges and opportunities to enhance the appeal and competitiveness of their schools. From academic programming and extracurricular offerings to marketing and community engagement, attendees will leave equipped with practical insights and tools to proactively address the challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by the expanding school choice landscape, ultimately ensuring that every student receives a high-quality education that meets their unique needs and aspirations.

Presenters

Darrell Smith

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations

1:00pm CDT

Federal Reporting, See What's being Reported About Your Schools

Not sure what happens to all of the data thats submitted in the cycle process? This session will talk about what SIS data is being reported to the USDOE.

Presenters

Linda Jenkins

Information Systems Manager, Arkansas Department of Education

State and Federal reporting efforts using Statewide Information Systems' Data/

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

1:00pm CDT

Finance Cycles and Troubleshooting Tips

This session will cover data fields within the FinancePLUS software that are reported in the state reporting cycles and will troubleshoot cycle errors and corrections. This session is for any users who enter data into the financial software.

Presenters

Jessica Wiley

APSCN Financial Support, Arkansas Dept of Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Finance

1:00pm CDT

Miguel*: A Child/Student’s Educational Timeline Through the Part C & B SPP/APR Indicators

The presentation illustrates a possible timeline of how the Part C and Part B indicators in the State Performance Plan/Annual Performance Report (SPP/APR) may influence the life of a child and his family under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Presenters

Jody Fields

Director, IDEA Data & Research, UA Little Rock

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

1:00pm CDT

Recent Findings for Administrative Reviews and Procurement Reviews

What have been the issues recently identified on Administrative Reviews and Procurement Reviews? What changes have been implemented into the reviews.

Presenters

Courtney Erick

Area Specialist Supervisor, Arkansas Department of Education

Kristen Gottshall

Area Specialist Supervisor, DESE CNU

I am a Registered Dietitian and Certified Child Nutrition Director. I have been with the Child Nutrition Unit since October 2020 and work in the department as an Area Specialist Supervisor. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Science with a focus in nutrition... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition, Finance

1:00pm CDT

Early Career Exposure

It’s never too early to think about a career! Learn how DCTE is supporting the early career exposure initiative, and how your students in grades 6-8 can benefit.

Presenters

Tim Johnston

Assistant Director of Pathways, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Pathways Beyond High School

1:00pm CDT

Recruitment and Services to Migrant Out of School Youth

This workshop will focus on the provision of services, Identification, and Recruitment of migrant out-of-school Youth Students in Arkansas, specifically H-2A and H-2B workers. We intend to inform our audience about the current trends in employment and innovative strategies school districts in Southeast Arkansas are implementing to serve this population.

Presenters

Selena Jurado

Clare Ortiz

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Migrant

1:35pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Transformative Leadership: Revitalizing Schools in the 21st Century with Professional Learning Communities

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Solution Tree.

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, the role of collaborative and innovative leadership cannot be overstated. Our journey will delve into the principles, practices, and outcomes of leveraging Professional Learning Communities (PLC) to drive meaningful change and academic excellence. Five guiding principles are used to lead a turnaround schools with the PLC process:

Understanding the Landscape of Turnaround Schools
The Essence of Professional Learning Communities
The Role of Leadership in Fostering PLCs
Overcoming Challenges and Sustaining Momentum
Creating a Vision for the Future by Embracing the Journey of Transformation

It is essential to recognize that leading turnaround schools demands a multifaceted approach, with PLCs at its core. By fostering collaboration, empowering educators, and embracing a culture of continuous improvement, we pave the way for sustainable transformation and academic excellence in the 21st century. Let us embark on this journey together, as leaders dedicated to shaping the future of education.

Presenters

Keith McGehee

Tuesday July 9, 2024 1:35pm - 2:00pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Student Support, Professional Learning Communities

2:00pm CDT

Afternoon Snack Break

Join us in the Expo Hall for a healthy snack sponsored by the DESE School Health unit, including:

Fresh seasonal fruit
Assorted KIND bars
Freshly popped popcorn
Bottled water

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:00pm - 3:30pm CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D Hot Springs Convention Center

General

2:20pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Navigating the Spectrum: Addressing the Rise in Autism & Championing Early Intervention for Neuroequity

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Stages Learning.

Focusing on understanding and addressing the increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) while advocating for early intervention strategies to promote equity in neurological development and support. Discussions will encompass identifying challenges, exploring effective interventions, and advocating for policies that ensure equitable access to resources and support for individuals with autism, cognitive and developmental delays.

Presenters

Kelly Bratcher

Stages Learning designs, sells and delivers materials, training and services to improve educational outcomes for children with autism, language acquisition delays, cognitive impairment and other learning challenges. We will highlight our Academic Readiness Intervention System (ARIS... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 2:45pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Student Support, Special Education

2:20pm CDT

Earn and Learn through the Registered Apprenticeship

A panel discussion on how districts can implement a registered apprenticeship a Grow Your Own Teacher Pipeline.

Presenters

Melissa Jacks

Program Manager, Educator Licensure, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

LaSonia Johnson

Karli Saracini

Assistant Commissioner of Educator Effectiveness & Licensure, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

2:20pm CDT

How Arkansas Collects and Uses Novice Teacher Data

Come learn tips on how to enter accurate novice teacher data into eSchool and eFinance while gaining a better understanding of how this data is used to meet state and federal reporting requirements and to make informed decisions about the educator workforce.

Presenters

Sharlee Crowson

Educator Effectiveness Special Projects Coordinator, DESE

Sharlee Crowson has been a part of the DESE Educator Effectiveness team since 2016. During that time, she has worked in educator preparation, teacher recruitment, and educator workforce data.

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Data

2:20pm CDT

True Confessions from a First Year Principal: What I thought I knew, but really didn't know!

Join us for a candid session featuring a first-year principal sharing their honest reflections about the school leadership experience. Explore the unexpected challenges and revelations faced in the first year of school leadership. From navigating staff dynamics to managing parent expectations, discover firsthand insights on what it truly means to lead a school community. Gain valuable lessons and practical strategies to enhance your own leadership journey. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from real experiences and strengthen your leadership skills.

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital

2:20pm CDT

Preparing for Math and Science State Assessments Through Tier I Instruction.

In this session, participants will review the ATLAS blueprints and discuss how to align Tier 1 instruction to support systems that set up students for success in math and science.

Presenters

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education

Katie Chacon

Alex Pritchett

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Science

2:20pm CDT

Traveler Databases in the Classroom and Beyond

This session will introduce the Arkansas State Library’s Traveler Statewide Digital Resource Program, provide a brief description of each of the database offerings, and offer tips on how you can use these valuable digital resources to support both classroom instruction and distance learning.

Presenters

Katie Walton

Manager of Acquisitions, Arkansas State Library

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Instruction

2:20pm CDT

What's New in 6-12 ELA Standards?

Let's explore English Language Arts (ELA) by discussing clear expectations for Tier 1 instruction through the AR ELA Standards and for Tier 2 instruction through the 6-12 Strategic Reading Standards.

During this session, participants can expect to receive overview

of both 6-12 ELA and Strategic Reading Standards, including the organizational structure (strands, components, and standards), major shifts in each grade, and leveraging district adopted HQIM in each instructional setting.

Presenters

Amber Pirnique

Disciplinary Literacy Program Manager, Arkansas Department of Education

Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

2:20pm CDT

AR App

Presenters

Stacy Smith

Deputy Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Matt Sewell

Assistant Commissioner, DESE

Jayne Green

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations

2:20pm CDT

Best Practices for USDA foods in Food Distribution – Learn how to fully utilize the total value of your Planned Assistance Level (PAL) in Child Nutrition Programs

Learn to fully utilize the total value of your Planned Assistance Level (PAL) in Child Nutrition Programs.

Presenters

Diedra Bolden

Program Manager, ADE Food Distribution Unit

I am the Program Manager for the AR Department of Education, Food Distribution Unit. I oversee the Food Distribution for over 280 Recipient Agencies participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and the Summer Food Service... Read More →

Christine Jackson

Joi Jett

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

2:20pm CDT

CLASS Evaluation Tool

Overview of the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS). This is a pilot project reviewing how effective CLASS is in the evaluation of the quality of early childhood programs across the state.

Presenters

Lori Bridges

Director of Early Childhood Programs, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Early Childhood

2:20pm CDT

Introduction to CRASE (Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events)

The Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) course, designed and built on the Avoid, Deny Defend (ADD) strategy developed by ALERRT in 2004, provides strategies, guidance and a proven plan for surviving an active shooter event.

Presenters

Jason Weatherly

Safe School Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education - DESE

Jerry Keefer

Arkansas Safe Schools Director, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, School Safety

2:20pm CDT

"Be Pro be Proud" Draft Day

Opportunities to engage your students with local, regional and state employers through career fairs and interview opportunities.

Presenters

Andrew Parker

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Pathways Beyond High School

2:20pm CDT

Arkansas Scholarships

Arkansas Scholarships are more than just the lottery. This session will dive into the ways students apply to scholarships, receive them, and the necessary requirements of each.

Presenters

Alisha Lewis

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Division of Higher Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Student Support

2:20pm CDT

Effective Interview Techniques for everyone you meet...

Participants will apply effective interview techniques to introduce the migrant program in the field to potential migrant students, out-of-school youth, parents, guardians, community partners, farmers, and agriculture business partners.

Presenters

Jessica Castaneda

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Migrant

2:20pm CDT

A Pound of Prevention: From Data Entry to State Reporting

This session will give guidance on frequent data entry errors in the eSchoolPLUS system, which can impact the accuracy of data used for state reporting and other state systems. It offers direction for best practice and procedures of data entry to prevent errors that can have a negative effect on a district and how to solve the errors, if they do occur. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Presenters

Lynda Burt

Information System Business Analyst, ADE/APSCN

My employment under APSCN began in 1997. I enjoy assisting districts with issues they may be having with eSchool, Cognos, and/or State Reporting. A couple of my duties are to create/edit eSchool documentation and to test state reporting cycles. I find these challenging and like to... Read More →

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:20pm - 4:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

2:55pm CDT

[Vendor Session] What is iTeach?

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by iTeach.

iTeach is an alternative teacher certification in Arkansas that enables individuals to become teachers without a traditional education degree. If you have a bachelor’s degree and want to become a teacher, iTeach’s accredited educator preparation program is here to help you reach your goals. Our accredited program offers rigorous training and certification, allowing you to start your teaching career with full pay in as little as eight weeks.

Presenters

Jameson Fowler

Tuesday July 9, 2024 2:55pm - 3:20pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Human Capital, Licensure

3:40pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Building Equitable and Accessible Assessments for ALL Students to Succeed!

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Cambridge Assessment International.

Traditionally, when you hear the term ‘accessibility’ in education, you might think about accommodations for students with disabilities and English Learners. The following presentation highlights how Cambridge Assessment focuses explicitly on developing assessments that are equitable and accessible for all student learners through test design, creation, and scoring approaches that are innovative and unique to US education and fundamentally improve performance for ALL students.

Presenters

Allison Ibarra

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:05pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, Assessment

3:40pm CDT

[Vendor Session] iReady Pro: Essential Lessons in Foundational Skill and Core Numeracy for students in Grades 6+

Come see iReady Pro for students grades 6 plus. iReady Pro motivates student learning within a reimagined student experience. There is greater student autonomy, increased ownership and agency, more engagement, and clear relevance to their learning. During this presentation, you will see how i-Ready Pro precisely addresses a wide variety of student needs present in middle school classrooms through streamlined lesson pathways plus new insights for classroom teachers and interventionists. The lessons in iReady Pro are more developmentally appropriate for middle school students. Also, the new reporting will be helpful to MS teachers: Detailed information into student skill development and acquisition will provide crucial support and insights for moving middle school students ahead. The K-12 adaptive i-Ready Diagnostic provides targeted middle school math and reading intervention to students who need it, accelerated learning for those who don’t, and personalized guidance for every student—all while preserving time for grade-level instruction. Plus see our NEW K-8 Ready Classroom Core Mathematics and K-2 Magnetic Reading Foundations! Both programs have All Green and Perfect Scores on EdReports and Arkansas EdReports.

Presenters

Harry Dickens

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:05pm CDT
Rooms 201 & 202 Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, Assessment

3:40pm CDT

What Impacts Teacher Quality? (SoR) Audits and State Review of Educator Preparation Programs

Updates on Requirements and Progress of State Review and Science of Reading (SOR) Audit of Educator Preparation Programs and how the results will drive continuous improvement

Presenters

Joan Luneau

Sharlee Crowson

Educator Effectiveness Special Projects Coordinator, DESE

Sharlee Crowson has been a part of the DESE Educator Effectiveness team since 2016. During that time, she has worked in educator preparation, teacher recruitment, and educator workforce data.

Matthew Sutherlin

Coordinator of Standards and Systems Support, Public School Accountability

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

3:40pm CDT

Why Do I Even Need a Master or Lead Designation???

Building capacity to meet requirements outlined in the LEARNS Act. Explore the Master and Lead Licensure designation pathways, when they are needed and how to best utilize those designations.

Presenters

Bobette Ray

Educator Support Advisor, ADE-DESE - Office of Educator Effectiveness

If you are a teacher, ask me which micro-credential would be best for you. If you are an administrator, ask me which micro-credential would be best for grade-level teams or novice teachers. If you are a superintendent, ask me about the career continuum and how it can support your... Read More →

Melissa Jacks

Program Manager, Educator Licensure, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Karli Saracini

Assistant Commissioner of Educator Effectiveness & Licensure, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

3:40pm CDT

Individual Reading Plans

In this session, participants will discuss the requirements for Individual Reading Plans as well as discover how plans will connect to the K-3 assessments system, and learn strategies for districts and families to use to support students as they grow around areas of reading deficits.

Presenters

Sandy Shepard

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

3:40pm CDT

Math & STEM Content Made Digital in an eLearning World

Creating digital content is important. For starters, digital content is much more likely to be accessible than its paper based equivalent. Digital content can (usually) be enlarged, read aloud with text or screen readers, manipulated, copied, created with speech, and more. However, due to the complexity of math symbols, the plethora of worksheets in circulation, and the requirement for students to “show their work,” it has been difficult, if not impossible to create a digital equivalent. In this session, attendees will learn how to use technology with a feature rich UDL toolbar where users will be given the opportunity create math by way of using prediction, speech to math, a graph editor, and a screenshot reader which will enable users to hear the math aloud allowing users to further enhance their math vocabulary. I will also demonstrate how you scan a document with your mobile phone, and convert the math problems on it to digital & accessible math.

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Math, Assessment

3:40pm CDT

How to start an infant and toddler program?

Learn how to start up a quality early childhood program for infants and toddlers in your school. Infant and toddler programs are vital to communities.

Presenters

Dawn Jeffrey

Assistant Director, Office of Early Childhood

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Early Childhood

3:40pm CDT

Increasing Participation with Alternative Meal Delivery and What's a Director to Do? Followed by Meet and Greet with your Area Specialists

This is a 3 segment session.The first segment will focus on Alternative meal delivery as one way to increase participation. The second segment includes an overview of situations that CNDs encounter and the best course of action when the situation arises, including resources and contact information. During the last session, area specialist will host a "meet and greet" with schools in their assigned area.

Presenters

Cordelia Underwood

Faith English

Central Area Specialist, Child Nutrition Unit

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

3:40pm CDT

Special Education Early Childhood Reporting Requirements

This session will provide an overview of Special Education Early Childhood reporting requirements for Cycle 4 and Cycle 7

Presenters

Khala Quarles

Training Coordinator, IDEA Data and Research

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

3:40pm CDT

Career Readiness Continuum: The K12 Readiness Experience

This session will cover the full influence of readiness in reference to LEARNS. Attendees will be presented with the K-12 continuum that will provide experiences for all students to be academically prepared and career ready as an Success Ready Arkansas Graduate.

Presenters

Ross White

Director-Division of Career and Technical Education, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Pathways Beyond High School

3:40pm CDT

Migrant Student Identification Process

After a review of the basic eligibility criteria under Title I, Part C of the Migrant Education Program, we will share the ID&R process our program uses to reach and qualify all migrant students in Arkansas. We will discuss ways we can bridge gaps and look for feedback from districts for building stronger relationships through district coordination to ensure all migrant students are quickly enrolled into the program, so we may provide supplemental education services as needed. Target Audience: District/school administrators, federal programs coordinators, eSchool/APSCN/Triand staff, and district migrant staff.

Presenters

Ashley Hulan

Migrant R.E.D.S, AR MEP

Heidi Harris

Migrant REDS, Wilbur D Mills Ed Svcs Coop

LaRanda Clayton

Migrant REDS, AR MEP - DMESC

Tuesday July 9, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Migrant

4:15pm CDT

[Vendor Session] Keep Track of Students Using SmartData Dashboard

VENDOR SESSION: This session is sponsored by Hughes Education.

SmartData-Come see the new stack rollout, along with the ESSA Dashboard where you can track your ESSA score in real-time during the school year instead of waiting until July to know your scores. School districts also have the availability to do walk-through safety assessments as well as site assessments for every building on their campus, all of which is included in SmartData at no additional cost.

Presenters

Randy Barnhill

Tuesday July 9, 2024 4:15pm - 4:40pm CDT
Exhibitor Demonstration Room Hot Springs Convention Center

Operations, Data

4:40pm CDT

District Team Debrief

School/District teams will have the opportunity to meet during this time and share what they learned.

Tuesday July 9, 2024 4:40pm - 5:40pm CDT
Exhibit Hall B Hot Springs Convention Center

General

7:30am CDT

Registration

Wednesday July 10, 2024 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center

General

7:30am CDT

Morning Snacks

Join us in the Expo Hall for snacks and beverages including:

Assorted breakfast breads and petite muffins
Individual yogurts with granola
Fresh seasonal fruit
Freshly b

Wednesday July 10, 2024 7:30am - 9:00am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D Hot Springs Convention Center

General

8:30am CDT

[KEYNOTE] Let Me Out: Unleashing the Leader Within

In this keynote address, embark upon a transformative journey to unleash the untapped potential within yourself. Whether you're an administrator, teacher, or paraprofessional, this keynote will offer practical tools and wisdom to navigate challenges and drive meaningful change. It's time to break free from limitations and unleash the leader within.

Presenters

Capri Salaam

2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, North Little Rock School District

Capri Bell Salaam is a one-of-a-kind educator dedicated to developing the whole child. The 2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Central Arkansas before beginning her career as a third-grade teacher. After completing her... Read More →

Wednesday July 10, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center

General

10:20am CDT

Spicing up the Seasoned Administrator

Even seasoned administrators will learn how to spice up their practice through updated options for collecting quality evidence while also preserving time and efficiency.

Presenters

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE

Pearce Peacock

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

10:20am CDT

Why Do I Even Need a Master or Lead Designation???

Building capacity to meet requirements outlined in the LEARNS Act. Explore the Master and Lead Licensure designation pathways, when they are needed and how to best utilize those designations.

Presenters

Bobette Ray

Educator Support Advisor, ADE-DESE - Office of Educator Effectiveness

Melissa Jacks

Program Manager, Educator Licensure, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Karli Saracini

Assistant Commissioner of Educator Effectiveness & Licensure, Arkansas Department of Education

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

10:20am CDT

K-5 Science Fundamental Content

In this session, participants will dive into the K-5 science fundamental content support documents so grade-level expectations are clear, and students receive a coherent progression and are prepared for higher-level science courses in middle and high school.

Presenters

Katie Chacon

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Science

10:20am CDT

Leveraging the power of intellectual preparation for teaching and learning

In this session, participants will learn about the benefits of Unit and Lesson Internalization and how it can strengthen daily instructional decision-making. By integrating High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM), participants will discover how they can enhance their instructional approaches, anticipate and address gaps in instructional coherence, maintain consistency in grade-level appropriate assignments, improve teacher collaboration practice and provide more productive learning experiences and outcomes for all students.

Presenters

Tieal Hollimon

Senior Effectiveness Coach, TNTP

Wil Redmond

Senior Manager, ELA, TNTP

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

10:20am CDT

Math & STEM Content Made Digital in an eLearning World

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Math, Assessment

10:20am CDT

Mystery League

In this session, participants will learn about Arkansas's PBS series, Mystery League, and how they may use the episodes and resources to promote community engagement and social studies in the K-4 classroom.

Presenters

Sajni Kumpuris

Director of Education, Arkansas PBS

Sajni Kumpuris is the Director of Education at Arkansas PBS. Since joining ARPBS in 2019, Kumpuris has led several initiatives in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Education including Rise and Shine, AR AMI and ArkansasIDEAS which produces teacher professional development... Read More →

Jessica Saum

2022 Arkansas Teacher of the Year

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction

10:20am CDT

Arkansas Child Nutrition In the News (Research)

UAMS researchers will discuss research being conducted in Arkansas school’s child nutrition programs, anticipated goals, findings so far, and expectations for the future.

Presenters

Pam Martin

Sara Sorrell

Michael Thompson

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

10:20am CDT

Arkansas Transportation Modernization Grant Program

Presenters

Tim Cain

Director, AR Public School Academic Facilities & Transportation

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations

10:20am CDT

SFA: Your coding matters

Unlock the secrets to keeping your pie fresh and green with these handy tips and tricks—it's all in the coding! Join us as we delve into common SFA errors and learn how to resolve them once and for all.

Presenters

Brooke McCain

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

10:20am CDT

Triand Revamped

Triand, the state's electronic transcript system, has been redesigned! Come take a look at the redesigned system and learn where to find all of the things that you will need to know.

Presenters

Angel Peugh

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

10:20am CDT

Building Data Dashboards to Monitor Student Learning

Learn how schools utilize innovative approaches to monitoring student learning by creating and using data dashboards. Discover how technology is pivotal in crafting efficient systems that offer transparency and evidence-based insights to track student progress seamlessly. Explore real-world examples and best practices that empower educators to make timely interventions and foster continuous improvement in student outcomes. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into leveraging technology for effective student learning monitoring.

Presenters

Kayci Hardnett

Susan Jobe

Assistant Director of Special Projects, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

I am the Assistant Director of Special Projects at the Arkansas Department of Education. My work centers around supporting professional learning communities and statewide collaborative teacher teams.

Missy Walley

Special Projects and Policy Director, Arkansas Department of Education

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Student Support, Professional Learning Communities

10:20am CDT

Nurturing Minds: Unlocking Potential to be Kindergarten Ready

Come join us for a session on developing Kindergarten Readiness and improving behavior in young children. Explore the profound benefits of Kindergarten readiness and gain insights into innovative teaching approaches and optimal learning environments. This session will examine executive brain function, components imperative for healthy brain development, and the pivotal role of executive functioning in laying the groundwork for success in K-12 education. Help your youngest learners thrive and be ready to excel on Kindergarten Readiness screeners and the state K-2 ATLAS Assessments. We’ll share data collected from over 1,000 preschoolers participating in an Executive Function-focused Early Childhood program implemented in high-minority, economically disadvantaged urban school districts. As student’s executive functioning scores increased, they also showed positive impacts on early literacy, numeracy, and mathematical thinking skills.

Presenters

Jeff Collum

Superintendent, Conway Public Schools

Megan Duncan

Assistant Superintendent, Conway Public Schools

Anil Karim

Wednesday July 10, 2024 10:20am - 12:20pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Early Childhood

11:40am CDT

Arkansas Leadership Academy Leading Learning, Accelerating Growth

This interactive session will focus on leadership strategies applicable for all stakeholders including students, educators, and community stakeholders that will help guide, measure, and celebrate student academic growth. Our adult learning facilitators will provide ready-to-implement tools and resources to jumpstart the leadership journey for teachers, administrators, school teams, and districts.

Presenters

Bradley Webber

Master Principal Program Director, AR Leadership Academy- MPP

Jeana Williams

Director of Educational Innovation, Professional Development, and Special Projects, APSRC

Williams joined APSRC in 2017, and has previously served as Interim Director of Teaching and Learning and Associate Director of Education. Prior to her work at APSRC, she spent 24 years working as an educator in the state of Arkansas. She began her career in the classroom where she... Read More →

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

11:40am CDT

Juggling the Support Without Dropping the Ball

Explore the delicate art of leadership multitasking in our session. Discover how principals manage diverse stakeholders while leading their schools. Gain insights from experienced educators on collaborating with tech coordinators, counselors, and external partners. Learn valuable resources like the Principal's Checklist to streamline your support network. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your leadership skills!

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital

11:40am CDT

Navigating the World of Micro-credentials

Join us for an insightful session exploring the transformative power of micro-credentials in the realm of professional development.

Presenters

Bobette Ray

Educator Support Advisor, ADE-DESE - Office of Educator Effectiveness

Becky McIver

SPDG Coordinator, DESE

Lindsey Jumper

Coaching Integration Specialist, State Personnel Development Grant, DESE

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT

Human Capital

11:40am CDT

What's New in Licensure?

Review of changes to educator licensure rules and their impact.

Presenters

Melissa Jacks

Program Manager, Educator Licensure, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Matthew Sutherlin

Coordinator of Standards and Systems Support, Public School Accountability

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Licensure

11:40am CDT

Elevate Math: Dive into 6-10 AR Standards

Join us for our Elevate Math session as we delve into the 6-12 math standards for Tier 1 instruction. Gain valuable insights into essential grade-level concepts and effective teaching strategies to foster student success. Participants will navigate the learning progression of these standards, developing an understanding of key concepts and skills vital for student achievement. Through interactive discussions and activities, attendees will uncover practical instructional strategies and resources to support Tier 1 classroom instruction. Let's elevate math education together!

Presenters

Ciara Gulley

State Math Specialist, ADE

Bobbie Olles

Math Program Advisor, ADE - DESE

Tahnya Price

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Math

11:40am CDT

K2 Assessment System-Data in a single system, now what?

Join us for an engaging session that delves into the innovative K-3 screener and K-2 assessment system, designed to empower educators in cultivating tailored learning experiences. Explore the intricacies of this new system, uncovering its components such as the screener and individual reading plan templates. Learn how to harness the wealth of data generated by the system to inform and shape individualized student learning plans, enabling you to make impactful decisions that resonate with each student's unique needs. Elevate your teaching strategies with this insightful session, where we transform data into actionable insights for a more effective and personalized approach to education.

Presenters

Michelle Johnson

Director of Assessment, Department of Elementary & Secondary Education

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Assessment

11:40am CDT

Navigating NAEP Tools for Educators: A Spotlight on Science Standards

This presentation delves into the diverse array of tools offered by NAEP, providing valuable resources for educators across the educational spectrum. In today's interconnected educational landscape, student performance undergoes competitive scrutiny at various levels, encompassing comparisons between students, schools, districts, states, and regions. The session will specifically delve into the evaluation of student performance in Arkansas within the framework of the largest ongoing assessment in the United States. Attendees will be able to examine released test items, establishing correlations between student performance and associated qualitative results, thereby fostering a more comprehensive understanding of both successes and barriers. Moreover, the presentation will actively guide participants through sample exercises and quizzes designed for integration into science and technology classes. This hands-on exploration aims to equip educators with practical insights and tools, enhancing their teaching strategies for a more effective and engaging learning experience.

Presenters

Holly Morado

NAEP State Coordinator, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education - Public School Accountability

Laura Goadrich

Director of Special Projects, Arkansas Department of Education

Director of Special Projects for ADE Learning Services.

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Assessment

11:40am CDT

Targeting ELA Foundational Skills Instruction: Key Levers for Instructional Leaders

In this session, participants will examine the key levers to elevate foundational skills instruction and learning outcomes. Participants will walk away with an in depth understanding of observation "Look Fors" in the impact areas of Structures for Learning, Aligned Content, Direct Instruction and Student Practice

Presenters

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Sandy Shepard

Pearce Peacock

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

11:40am CDT

Cyber Savvy Administrators: Chrome Browser Security

Participants will gain insightful tips, tricks, and "did you knows” as we delve into Chrome settings, enriching their understanding of logging in to Chrome. The workshop is designed to elevate administrators' privacy and security settings, providing them with practical tips and strategies to fortify their online data protection measures.

Presenters

Tyra Hobson

Instructional Technology Coordinator, DeQueen-Mena Education Service Coop

Tyra Hobson has been in education for over twenty years. She is the Instructional Technology Specialist at the DeQueen- Mena ESC and ACTC (Arkansas Cooperative Technology Coordinators) Chair. She holds an M.S.E in Curriculum and Instruction and Google Educator certifications. She... Read More →

David Hampton

Technology Coordinator, SWAEC

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations

11:40am CDT

Scratch Cooking: Letting Your Senses Market Your Menu

Jennifer Maune, Certified Chef with advanced training at Le Cordon Bleu Paris, and finalist on Gordon Ramsay's Master Chef Season 13, will discuss some things that are universal in food service, including using the senses to market your menu, local purchasing and why it is not only good for the local economy but also provides better quality foods, and how to pack plate appeal into your menus.

Presenters

Chef Jennifer Maune

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

11:40am CDT

What's in a letter grade?

Presenters

Hope Worsham

Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability, Arkansas Department of Education

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Accountability

11:40am CDT

Career Ready Pathways

Learn about the new Career Ready Pathway to Diploma and opportunities for students to earn distinction as an Arkansas high school graduate.

Presenters

Ross White

Director-Division of Career and Technical Education, Arkansas Department of Education

Wednesday July 10, 2024 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Pathways Beyond High School

1:00pm CDT

Knowing Who You Grow: VAM(Value Added Measures) and Roster Verification

Presenters

Sharlee Crowson

Educator Effectiveness Special Projects Coordinator, DESE

Sharlee Crowson has been a part of the DESE Educator Effectiveness team since 2016. During that time, she has worked in educator preparation, teacher recruitment, and educator workforce data.

Karli Saracini

Assistant Commissioner of Educator Effectiveness & Licensure, Arkansas Department of Education

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE

Matthew Sutherlin

Coordinator of Standards and Systems Support, Public School Accountability

Wednesday July 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Data

1:00pm CDT

Who Done It? Now What?: 24 hour Rule and Background Check Reporting

Presenters

Whitney James

Managing Attorney, Professional Licensure Standards Board, Arkansas Department of Education

Melissa Jacks

Program Manager, Educator Licensure, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Clara Toney

Public School Program Coordinator (Background Checks), Arkansas Department of Education

Kayla Bodi

Program Manager, Office of Early Childhood

Wednesday July 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Human Capital, Data

1:00pm CDT

ADE STEM Curriculum Grant: PLTW

Come join the STEM team and learn more about the opportunity to increase student interest and engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by providing middle school students access to high quality STEM curriculum that supports hands-on, real-world learning, from Project Lead The Way (PLTW). Come learn about the implementation of the power of STEM using the PLTW Curriculum school leaders and teachers.

Presenters

Jason Bailey

Project Lead The Way Gateway Grant Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

13 years classroom experiencePhysics, Biology, Earth Science, Environmental ScienceBSE - Life Science EducationMED - Gifted and Creative EducationHigh Quality Science Education STATEWIDE

Wednesday July 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, STEM

1:00pm CDT

Texthelp's Best Solutions for Core Instruction

Wednesday July 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy, Assessment

1:00pm CDT

eSchool: What You Need to Know for School Year 2025

During this session we will delve into the additions to state reporting requirements and changes to some eSchoolPLUS processes for 2024-2025. This session would benefit all eSchool data entry users.

Presenters

Monica Haider

APSCN Field Representative, ADE

Wednesday July 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Data

1:00pm CDT

Meal Pattern Changes for SY 2024-2025

USDA's meals patterns are changing again! This session focus on the changes for lunch, breakfast and snack meal patterns for School Year 2024-25.

Presenters

Bailey Kelley

Area Specialist, ADE, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education, Child Nutrition Unit

Meredith Mannix

North East Central Area Specialist, Child Nutrition Unit

Jacinda Gray

Wednesday July 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

1:00pm CDT

Building Collaborative Teamwork to Support Career and Technical Education (CTE)

With a foundational background in business, Kelly brings a strategic and innovative approach to education, emphasizing the integration of career and technical education to enhance student engagement and success.
Before assuming her current role, Kelly served as Principal of the Don Tyson School of Innovation in Springdale, Arkansas. She led significant advancements in educational technology and program development during her tenure, notably in career-oriented curriculum. This focus has become a cornerstone of her educational philosophy, which also emphasizes supporting Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers through collaborative teamwork.

Kelly earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of North Georgia and a Bachelor of Business Education from the University of Arkansas. She furthered her expertise in educational administration by obtaining a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University.

Presenters

Mia Kelly Boortz

Executive Director of Middle Level Education, Bentonville Schools

Wednesday July 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Professional Learning Communities

1:00pm CDT

Career Coach 101

This session will cover the basics of the Career Coach's role in Secondary, Post-Secondary and Career.

Presenters

Sonja Wright McMurray

Assistant Director for Operations, Arkansas Department of Education, Division of Career and Technical Education

Dr. Sonja Wright-McMurray is the Assistant Director for Operations at the Arkansas Department of Education, Division of Career and Technical Education. In 2009, she began working for the Division of Career and Technical Education to implement and lead the Arkansas Career Coach Program... Read More →

Wednesday July 10, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Student Support, Pathways Beyond High School

3:40pm CDT

7 Levels of International Dysphagia Diet - Why It's Important for Schools

The IDDS was developed to standardize terminology to describe texture modified foods and thickened liquids for individuals of all ages with swallowing problems in all care settings, including schools. This 1 hour presentation will briefly review the importance of texture modifications at school and will focus of the preparation of meals and fluids to meet each of the 7 levels of the IDDS that schools may encounter.

Presenters

Chef Kecia (Kca) McLean

Wednesday July 10, 2024 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Operations, Child Nutrition

4:40pm CDT

District Team Debrief

School/District teams will have the opportunity to meet during this time and share what they learned.

Wednesday July 10, 2024 4:40pm - 5:40pm CDT
Exhibit Hall B Hot Springs Convention Center

General