General Conference Schedule

Presenter: Aveene Coleman

Get ready for a hands-on walkthrough of the newest tools designed to elevate how you track, analyze, and report incident management data. This session introduces the new error reporting dashboards and upgraded reporting features that streamline visibility Participants will learn how to use the new embargo webpage to review and validate final reports before release, ensuring accuracy and consistency across your reporting workflow.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Ballroom A

Presenter: Liz Hood

Ready to build something? This hands-on workshop invites educators from every discipline to create AI-assisted classroom tools during the session itself. Through rotating stations, participants will design an original assignment, craft an assessment, and develop a feedback tool -- all with the support of AI. No prior experience required. Leave with three ready-to-use resources and the confidence to keep creating.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Katie Mowery

Gemini said Master the art of efficiency in PowerSchool with this high-impact, hands-on training. Designed for users of all levels, this session reveals essential shortcuts, hidden "hacks," and fundamental functions often overlooked in daily workflows. Learn how to navigate the platform with precision, streamline data entry, and reclaim your time. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to increase accuracy and boost productivity across their unique roles.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Erica Fielder

In the fast-paced race of educational technology, instructional leaders are constantly accelerating, adjusting, and navigating obstacles. This facilitated roundtable invites participants to share recent wins, persistent roadblocks, and practical strategies for sustaining momentum. Through honest dialogue and collaborative problem-solving, leaders will refuel, recalibrate, and leave with actionable insights--and a stronger professional network to support the journey ahead.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Caitlin Carmendy

Co-Presenter: Erin Trahan

Come learn how our school created a successful PD system for teachers to learn and be empowered by each other by participating in a Virtual Class Visit or other asynchronous digital opportunities! We will explore some research with andragogy (adult learning) and debrief why these ideas specifically cater to or target adult learning. Virtual caused us to think outside the box and create these, but this structure can be effectively applied in any setting

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Debbie Tannenbaum

Based on her upcoming book, Cultivating Digital Learners and Creators, this session explores how to empower students to become "detectives" who identify and solve problems. We will dive into the Elementary Design Process, using technology to investigate local issues and build resilient solutions. Learn how to create a classroom culture where "failed prototypes" are celebrated as the first step in prototyping a better world.

Track: Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 104/105

Presenter: Carrie Colón

Co-Presenter: Kim Nordin

This session shows how a student-driven morning news program can strengthen school community while giving students leadership opportunities. Participants will explore how tools like Canva, Google Workspace, and iMovie support planning and producing engaging broadcasts. The presentation also covers scheduling, student production roles, and keeping content fresh. Attendees will also learn how AI tools can help brainstorm new segment ideas and support program development.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Lindsey Douglas

This session explores how podcasting and storytelling can transform student learning by amplifying student voice and creating authentic audiences. Participants will learn how to implement student-led podcasts and storytelling experiences that build communication, media literacy, and engagement. Drawing from real-world models that amplify student voice through both podcasting and TED-style storytelling, attendees will leave with practical strategies, tools, and structures to design meaningful, technology-rich storytelling opportunities across content areas.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Greta Flinn

Attend this session to learn about accessibility features that are built-in to Chromebooks and Google Workspace apps. There are no downloads or installations required! Simply turn the features on to optimize a chromebook's "engine" and put it in gear. This session covers text-to-speech, speech-to-text, enhanced readability, captioning, magnification, and even demonstrates how to control a chromebook with your face!

Track: Accessibility & Inclusive Design

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Kristen Kozel

Co-Presenter: Sheri Schultis

Proactively managing attendance is vital for improving student outcomes, engaging families, and safeguarding school funding, climate, and safety. This session introduces the MBA Attendance Monitor plugin which is powerful plugin designed to streamline attendance processes across all levels.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Michael McKenzie

Co-Presenter: Itunu Akande

The AI Alignment and Implementation Suite is a two-phase professional learning experience that supports reflective and flexible AI integration in teaching practice. This session will showcase a scenario-based model to help educators examine how their ideologies shape their approaches to AI. We will then apply those insights to inform instructional decisions through a customized AI seminar assistant. Participants will leave with a strategy that moves beyond abstract reflection and toward concrete implementation.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Shaun Shelton

Proactively evaluating the potential impact of South Carolina House Bill 3258, which would require the implementation of mobile panic alert systems in all public schools to improve coordination with first responders. This initiative supports enhanced school safety, faster emergency response times, and aligns with statewide efforts to strengthen emergency communication, training, and integration with existing 911 infrastructure.

Track: Secure & Safe Learning Environments

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 207

Presenter: Jessica Crowe

In today's high-stakes reporting environment, districts must move quickly without sacrificing accuracy. This session explores how to keep PowerSchool data in the fast lane while meeting South Carolina reporting requirements. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, strengthen data integrity, and implement validation strategies that prevent audit findings. Then, you and your team can submit data with confidence, efficiency, and compliance every time.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 208

Presenter: Austin Peay

Stop playing "AI Detective" and start fueling engagement! Join us to explore activities like the Viral TikTok Ad and The Impossible Podcast, plus custom Gemini Gems. These projects are strategically designed to be AI-cheat-proof by requiring specific evidence and creative critical thinking that AI cannot replicate. You'll walk away with AI activities you can implement immediately to transform your classroom into a future-ready, high-engagement learning environment.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 209

Presenter: Nick LaFave

Want to engage every learner without creating more work? This session shows how AI can make Universal Design for Learning practical and manageable in real classrooms. Learn how to design lessons that increase student voice, choice, and accessibility while supporting deeper learning. You will see classroom ready examples and leave with strategies you can apply immediately, regardless of grade level or content area.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Shelley Todd

Just like traffic merging onto a highway, information from different learning tools needs a clear, intentional path to come together smoothly. This session helps educators determine when and how to merge data from multiple tools and share results that support teaching and learning. Participants will explore the Merging Lanes framework through hands-on examples, including using spreadsheets and formulas like VLOOKUP to combine data into a single, meaningful output.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Kimberly Nordin

Co-Presenter: Carrie Colon

Explore creative, scalable ways coaches, teacher leaders, and administrators can share instructional strategies and technology integration practices beyond traditional PD. Through examples like "Fun-sized" PD, Knowledge Swaps, and TeachTok, participants will discover practical, engaging formats that build collaboration, increase teacher buy-in, and support immediate classroom implementation while fostering a culture of continuous professional learning.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Bucky Ware

Professional development is more than sessions and schedules--it's an experience. In this interactive session, discover how service design principles can transform PD days into intentional, efficient, and meaningful learning experiences. Explore practical tools to improve communication, logistics, engagement, and culture--while building trust and satisfaction across your school or district.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Elizabeth Modzel

Co-Presenter: Pam Inabinett

Empower students for life beyond the classroom with Career Connects. This session explores how to integrate career awareness into everyday instruction, connect content to real-wo In this forward-thinking session, educators and leaders will explore how to intentionally connect classroom learning to real-world career pathways through Career Connects. As workforce demands continue to evolve, schools play a critical role in helping students build the knowledge, skills, and awareness needed for success beyond graduation. Participants will discover how Career Connects brings relevance to instruction by linking academic content to high-demand careers, industry insights, and real-world applications. Through engaging, ready-to-use strategies and digital resources, educators can help students answer the question: "When will I ever use this?" During this session, attendees will: Explore practical ways to embed career awareness into everyday instruction Learn how to connect core content to real-world industries and workforce skills Discover strategies that increase student engagement through relevance and purpose Examine how to support college and career readiness across grade levels Walk away with actionable tools and resources that can be implemented immediately Pathways By making learning meaningful and future-focused, we can empower students to see possibilities, build confidence, and take ownership of their path forward. Pathways with Purpose: Preparing Students for What's Next

Track: Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 104/105

Presenter: Catherine Owens

Explore how AI image generation can transform student creativity and deepen content understanding across grade levels. This session highlights the Build-A-Beast science project alongside examples from middle school special education short story visualization in Holes and high school literary analysis in The Great Gatsby. Participants will see how students use Canva, Adobe Express, Google Slides, Gemini, and Firefly to design meaningful, standards-aligned visual products.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Dave Hinrichs

Co-Presenter: Christie Cloud

In this hands-on workshop, educators will use Adobe Express to create short animated learning experiences. Participants will combine a background image, character animation, narration, and video editing to design historical tours, landmark explainers, or content-based stories. The session highlights creative pedagogy, student voice, and media literacy while giving educators a practical workflow they can use right away.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Michael Summer

K–12 districts face increasingly sophisticated email threats that bypass traditional filters and disrupt learning. This session breaks down the 13 most common email-based attacks targeting schools today and provides a practical audit framework for identifying risky emails, suspicious logins, compromised accounts, and unsafe file sharing. Learn how layered, behavior-based security strengthens protection across Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 environments.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student Data & Information Systems,Secure & Safe Learning Environments,IT Infrastructure & Technical Services,Privacy, Security & Compliance,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Katie Mowery

Co-Presenter: Sheri Schultis

Implement mastery learning and standards-based grading seamlessly. Define learning objectives, develop a rubric scale, communicate grading criteria, and track progress

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Dexin Dai

Learn a simple, repeatable workflow for turning lesson vocabulary and grammar into a catchy song that boosts recognition and sentence production. I use ChatGPT to draft and verify repetitive lyrics from a textbook dialogue, then generate music in Suno or Mureka (custom lyrics mode) and select the most memorable version. In class, students do cloze, arrange flashcards while listening, practice from half-speed to normal speed, rewrite lyrics, and peer-check grammar.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Stephanie Swiderski

Co-Presenter: David Sallay

In the race to implement new technology, your "Pit Crew"--the Student Data Privacy Consortium (SDPC) Resource Registry--is your greatest asset. This session is a tactical, hands-on guide to using the SDPC database and the National Data Privacy Agreement (NDPA) to streamline your district's workflow and save you time, all while ensuring teacher and students have access to the essential online learning tools they need.

Track: Privacy, Security & Compliance

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 207

Presenter: Ben Dederich

Co-Presenter: Marcus Porter

District teams have access to many data sources, but too often need to manually combine information for instructional planning. This process results in a heavy management burden, especially when coordinating within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports framework. This session highlights how district teams at Laurens 55 and Lancaster set out to close the gap between data access and data action through an intentional rollout of Administrator Navigator and Teacher Navigator during the 2025-26 school year.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 208

Presenter: THOMAS scott

A single cyber incident can shut down instruction, expose student data, and erode community trust. In this story-driven session, Tom Scott shares real-world lessons from cybersecurity leadership to help K–12 teams strengthen safe digital learning environments without slowing innovation. Attendees leave with a practical resilience playbook: minimum viable controls, clear roles for leaders/IT/instruction, a vendor risk "fast screen," and a simple response checklist that keeps learning moving.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Student Data & Information Systems,Secure & Safe Learning Environments,IT Infrastructure & Technical Services,Privacy, Security & Compliance,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 209

Presenter: Paige Mitchell

Ready to hit the fast lane of teaching and learning? This session highlights how educators can leverage the SC Instruction Hub alongside high-impact digital tools to accelerate student learning, streamline lesson planning, and enhance engagement. Participants will explore ready-to-use resources and walk away with strategies to maximize instructional time and impact.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Ballroom A

Presenter: charlotte schlamp

Differentiation is one of the most time-intensive expectations placed on classroom teachers. This session reframes AI as a practical planning partner that reduces preparation time while increasing the quality of tiered supports available to students. Participants will explore real classroom applications, engage in hands-on practice using free AI tools, and leave with ready-to-use differentiated materials built around their own content area standards and students.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Tonia Gardner

Ensure your school or district is audit-ready and compliant with South Carolina Department of Education requirements. This session will highlight PowerSchool best practices for accurate state reporting, common audit pitfalls, and effective data/Ed-Fi validation routines. Participants will learn strategies for maintaining clean, reliable data year-round instead of relying on last-minute corrections, helping reduce errors, improve efficiency, and support better decision-making at all levels.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Jolandra White

This presentation explores the integration of computer science across the K–8 curriculum as a strategy to enhance student engagement, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Attendees will discover: 1. How embedding computational thinking into core subjects transforms learning and empowers students as creators. 2. How Girls Who Code delivers innovative, hands-on computer science in classrooms and after-school clubs while supporting educators with resources to inspire girls to pursue diverse tech pathways and bridge the gender gap.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Carla Adams

This session equips leaders with innovative strategies to support and retain new and early-career teachers through virtual instructional coaching and mentorship. Participants will explore how to provide ongoing, high-impact support without disrupting instructional time. Emphasizing flexibility and effectiveness, this session highlights practical approaches to strengthening teacher practice, enhancing professional growth, and sustaining a strong, committed educator workforce.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Sharon Fullard

This interactive session demonstrates practical implementation strategies, and real-world examples of how DISCUS supports academic achievement and career readiness. It will highlight how DISCUS resources create pathways to success for students, parents, job seekers, and adult learners by providing comprehensive, accessible tools. Whether a fifth-grade student is exploring future careers, a high schooler is planning college, or an adult is updating a resume, DISCUS provides structured, reliable, expert-supported tools to guide their journey.

Track: Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 104/105

Presenter: Niesha Butler

Transform student learning through creative, AI-powered storytelling. In this session, participants will explore how AI tools such as NotebookLM can help students turn research, notes, and content knowledge into engaging graphic novels. Attendees will learn strategies to support literacy, comprehension, and student voice while integrating AI in meaningful ways. Walk away with practical ideas and ready-to-use approaches that can be applied across grade levels and content areas. For this session, attendees must have access to an LM Notebook account.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Paige Derrick

This session focuses on U.S. History in 4th grade and uses Google Earth, literature, maps, and other media created by the teacher to showcase an activity that integrates technology and learning about the nations and European claims of land in North America after 1763. Participants will be shown how students will use geographic knowledge and map skills to depict how the nations of England, Spain, and France claimed certain territories of the New World. They will use play dough to color code the land claims and mark each section with the specific country's flag for the true "claim" of land. Information about how to tie in the French & Indian War, American Revolution, and Triangular Trade Route with the African American Slave Trade will also be included. An example reflection writing piece will also be shown.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Whitney Kibler

It's time to shift gears! In this interactive session, educators will learn how to move beyond passive technology use and into the fast lane of student-centered learning. Discover how free digital tools can amplify student voice by empowering learners to create, reflect, and share their thinking. Participants will explore practical strategies such as digital choice boards, student-recorded responses, and creative learning tasks that work across PreK–5 classrooms. Using free edtech tools, even the youngest learners can demonstrate understanding in meaningful ways. Walk away with simple, high-impact strategies you can implement immediately--no overhaul required. Get ready to accelerate engagement and put your students in control of their learning.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Maegan McClure

Co-Presenter: Carly Mott-Karma

Using Technology with Multilingual Students explores practical ways educators can support multilingual learners through digital tools and accessible instructional strategies. This session will highlight Adobe Express for Education and demonstrate how technology can increase engagement, creativity, language development, and equitable access for multilingual students through visual supports, scaffolds, and student-centered learning opportunities.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Angela Burgess

What if I told you AI doesn't have to be accidental? Transforming your class with AI isn't just a wildest dream -- it's a strategy! End the great edtech war & enter your mastermind era to design custom interactives with immersive visuals that are easily shared. Come learn about the invisible string connecting tools from Google, Canva, & Brisk.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: David Sallay

Co-Presenter: Stephanie Swiderski

Before you hit the gas on new classroom technology, you need to know the rules of the road. Data privacy isn't a hurdle; it's the seatbelt that keeps our students safe in a high-speed digital world. This session provides a foundational "Privacy 101" walkthrough of the federal legal landscape.

Track: Privacy, Security & Compliance

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 207

Presenter: Jared Jones

Accelerate your use of ClassLink with practical tips and tricks designed for busy educators. This session explores how to analyze usage data, resolve common rostering issues, and manage filtering permissions to better support staff and students. Participants will leave with efficient, actionable strategies to streamline access, reduce troubleshooting time, and keep their schools moving in the fast lane of educational technology.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 208

Presenter: Bonnie Nieves

AI implementation often fails when classrooms aren't ready for meaningful change. This session reframes AI readiness as teacher and student capacity, exploring practical strategies to integrate AI that enhance instruction by preserving student agency and productive friction. Participants will leave with frameworks to implement AI responsibly and effectively in real classrooms.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 209

Presenter: Kevin Staggers II

SCOIS provides wonderful tools and resources for preparing students to think about life after graduation. Kevin Staggers (SCDE's Office of Career Readiness) will provide participants with an overview of SCOIS along with guided instructions on access and its use. This session is ideal for school counselors, career specialists, SPED teachers, and technology staff.

Track: Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Ballroom A

Presenter: Kevin Combs

Co-Presenter: Marci Price

Most conversations about AI literacy focus on high school students or college-bound learners. But the habits, mindsets, and foundational skills students need to navigate an AI-powered world are built long before ninth grade. This session draws from real implementation experiences across South Carolina K–8 districts to offer educators and administrators a practical, classroom-ready framework for introducing AI literacy -- not as an add-on, but as an extension of existing digital literacy and digital citizenship programs students are already using. Attendees will explore a phased implementation model that meets districts where they are, examine common rollout pitfalls and how SC schools have overcome them, and leave with a readiness checklist and sequence they can bring back to their school or district the following week. Whether your district is just beginning this conversation or looking to strengthen an existing approach, this session offers grounded, practitioner-level guidance rooted in the South Carolina context.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Jessica Crowe

In today's high-stakes reporting environment, districts must move quickly without sacrificing accuracy. This session explores how to keep PowerSchool data in the fast lane while meeting South Carolina reporting requirements. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, strengthen data integrity, and implement validation strategies that prevent audit findings. Then, you and your team can submit data with confidence, efficiency, and compliance every time.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Jess Richardson

Maximize the power of South Carolina's state-funded access to Discovery Education. This session goes beyond simple video searches to explore high-impact features like Career Connect, SOS (Spotlight on Strategies), and the new AI TeacherTools. Join this session to transform your daily instruction using these South Carolina Standard aligned, cost-free, premium resources designed to spark curiosity and streamline your lesson planning workflow.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Hannah Nichols

This session will introduce educators to the basics of Canva, including essential tools for creating engaging classroom materials. Participants will explore helpful tips and tricks to improve efficiency and design quality, as well as key features available in Canva Pro. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to enhance lessons, save time, and create visually appealing resources for students.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Matt Hoffman

Co-Presenter: Ethan Dancy

Technology teams are often viewed as support staff - but what happens when they become strategic partners? This session explores how districts can break down silos between IT and instruction to improve decision-making, strengthen security, and drive meaningful innovation. Learn how to elevate your tech team through intentional professional learning, including CETL pathways, engagement with SCASA, and cross-district collaboration. Walk away with practical strategies to move from reactive support to proactive leadership.

Track: Career & Emerging Technologies,Secure & Safe Learning Environments,IT Infrastructure & Technical Services,Privacy, Security & Compliance,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 104/105

Presenter: Karen Wilkinson

The AI wave is here! Are your employees ready to ride it? Dive into this high-energy "Trivia Night" experience where learning meets play. Explore how organizations are embedding AI into hands-on training, so employees don't just learn it; they use it. Compete in live trivia, win prizes, and grab a virtual goody bag while discovering how AI-driven learning builds real-world skills. Leave energized with practical strategies to move your workforce from awareness to true integration.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: MELINDA Kolk

Project work doesn't have to require excessive time investments and extensive training. Learn how a simple shift in framing a task helps students go beyond a rote response to standards and learning goals to deep thinking and digital age communication.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Elizabeth Burr

Participants will engage in a hands-on design studio focused on increasing both engagement and rigor using research-backed instructional strategies. Grounded in Hattie's high-effect-size practices, this workshop guides educators in redesigning an existing lesson to embed teacher clarity, structured discussion, feedback cycles, and metacognitive reflection. Attendees will leave with a ready-to-implement high-impact task and a repeatable protocol for PLC or district use.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Shan Lewis

Co-Presenter: Laney Rogers

Rev up your engines and race into Discovery Education to uncover hidden gems along the way! In this high-energy, gamified session, participants will complete a series of fast-paced missions to help them navigate the platform like pros. Speed through challenges as you locate and learn how to access powerful resources like SOS Strategies, relevant channels, and a wide range of tools. Cross the finish line with a toolkit of ready-to-use directions.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Christie Cloud

Co-Presenter: Dave Hinrichs

With so many AI tools competing for educators' attention, how do you decide what is actually worth learning? In this interactive session, participants will see several AI tools demonstrated, compare classroom and district perspectives, and vote before the presenters reveal each tool's final Edulicious score. Educators will leave with practical ideas and a smarter way to evaluate future tools.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Bill Fritz

Co-Presenter: Libbi Nelson

Learn how to build a strong culture of privacy across your district using CoSN's Trusted Learning Environment (TLE) framework and the Student Data Privacy Consortium (SDPC). This session highlights how CoSN mini-seals, the National Data Privacy Agreement (NDPA), and Registry 2.0 simplify vendor agreement management. Participants will gain practical strategies to protect student data while strengthening trust and shared accountability among stakeholders.

Track: Privacy, Security & Compliance,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 207

Presenter: Shelley TOdd

Hit the accelerator on your data workflow! This session shows how to export from data sources and clean, organize, and analyze data using Google Sheets and Excel. Learn fast, practical tips with vlookup, filter, pivot tables, countif, counta, and graphs to turn raw files into clear, actionable insights. Perfect for educators who want efficiency, accuracy, and results--without slowing down.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 208

Presenter: Christine Cleary

Engaging learners in an online setting can be a difficult task and engaging learners across various levels can make that task even harder. SC Whitmore is an online school with a "school your way" philosophy that meets students where they are and provides rigorous learning experiences across the curriculum. This session will share the strategies and technology tools (including AI) that we use with our students to provide an engaging online experience. Participants in this session will leave with strategies and a list of tools to meet students of all levels and add rigor to courses taught virtually or using digital tools in the physical classroom. Examples shared during the session will include those used in traditional academic classes as well as those used in our more hands-on programs like our CTE completer pathways and our performing arts classes. Although SC Whitmore school is virtual, my experience as an educator includes teaching for almost twenty years in-person as well.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 209

Presenter: Madalina Tudora

Now that the ADA Title II updated accessibility requirements are in effect, are there any improvements you can make to your districtwide accessibility implementation strategy? Join us to assess your progress, explore solutions and build capacity for access! Easy steps, checks, resources and materials for implementation will be provided.

Track: Accessibility & Inclusive Design

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Ballroom A

Presenter: Russ Conrath

Discover practical, innovative AI tools that empower educators to enhance student learning without replacing critical thinking. This session explores emerging apps, real-world classroom applications, and ethical strategies for integrating AI as a support tool. Participants will leave with actionable ideas to improve engagement, strengthen research skills, and foster deeper learning while maintaining academic integrity and human-centered teaching practices.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Mark Griffith

Many PLCs collect assessment data but struggle to translate it into instructional decisions. This session introduces a simple protocol for using standards based formative assessment data to guide PLC conversations about standards mastery, intervention, and reteaching. Participants will see practical examples of how structured data discussions help teachers identify learning gaps and plan next instructional steps. Attendees will leave with a ready-to-use framework for improving PLC data conversations.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Niesha Butler

Co-Presenter: Barbara W-Holley

Districts often struggle with scattered digital tools, unclear approval processes, and limited visibility into purchased resources. This session highlights how to leverage LearnPlatform to create a centralized repository of approved applications and implement a clear, cross-departmental vetting workflow. Participants will gain practical strategies to align curriculum, finance, IT, and leadership teams while improving access, transparency, and instructional decision-making. LearnPlatform is financed by the state department of education and available at no charge to all South Carolina public schools.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Accessibility & Inclusive Design,Privacy, Security & Compliance,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Dee Pukl

Co-Presenter: Laura Beckham

Learn how a lean team of eight Digital Learning Coaches effectively scales instructional technology across 32 schools. This session breaks down our proven systemic structures for managing district-wide professional learning, curriculum engagement, and teacher training. We will move beyond the "what" of technology to focus on the strategic approaches--from team-based communication cycles to multi-tiered support models--that ensure equitable, high-impact digital integration at every building in the system.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Lynette Dickerson

CTE should be accessible to every student, not limited by lab space, safety concerns, or prior experience. In this workshop, you'll explore how high-fidelity VR simulations can broaden participation and accelerate skill-building across pathways, using a library of 1,000+ simulations with options for STEM (middle/high), vocational, and human anatomy in short, classroom-friendly modules.

Track: Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 104/105

Presenter: Bekir Mugayitoglu

Co-Presenter: Joanne L. Previts

How might educators transform Artificial Intelligence (AI) from a shortcut into a sophisticated learning partner? This session delivers high-impact strategies for brainstorming and feedback that protect academic integrity while sharpening critical thinking. Move students from passive consumers to creative problem-solvers with actionable frameworks and ready-to-use policies. Shift the focus from "product" to "process" and lead students and colleagues into the future with confidence.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Jessica Preisig

Co-Presenter: Monica Watts

Concerns about student safety and screen time dominate headlines, often leading to polarized responses. District leaders must find the balance. This session explores three leadership balances: safety vs. access, screen time vs. learning time, and innovation vs. control. Participants will examine the role of digital literacy & citizenship and learn how 1EdTech ecosystem standards support safer integrations, transparent app vetting, and smarter procurement decisions for healthier digital learning environments.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Secure & Safe Learning Environments,Digital Citizenship & Online Safety,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Jessica Felker

Frustrated by those piles of laptops and chargers at the beginning and end of the year? Come learn how to streamline laptop and equipment distribution by using my tips on how to efficiently distribute and collect school-owned tech.

Track: IT Infrastructure & Technical Services

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Carla Livingston

Are you looking for ways to help students connect with future careers? This session will dive deeper into the use of Career Connect to help students learn about careers and interact with real-world professionals. This digital tool will allow students to interact with guest speakers to promote career readiness and connect their learning to real-world jobs.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Tom Nawrocki

Unlock the power of AI to transform your daily workflow. This seminar provides a practical introduction to using AI chat engines for both instruction and administration. Participants will master prompt engineering to generate creative lesson plans, engaging activities, and efficient office solutions. Discover how to integrate AI with Microsoft Office to streamline tasks and enhance productivity, empowering you to focus more on student success and less on paperwork.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Nicole Ritchie

Digital citizenship lessons often focus on rules rather than helping students navigate today's complex online world. This session will explore practical ways to integrate digital citizenship and online safety skills into everyday instruction. Participants will examine strategies for addressing misinformation, digital footprints, AI use, and responsible online behavior while engaging students in meaningful discussions that promote safe, thoughtful, and ethical technology use.

Track: Secure & Safe Learning Environments,Digital Citizenship & Online Safety

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 207

Presenter: Jason Jones

What if the first screen users see in your SIS actually improved data quality and student outcomes? Discover how custom start pages, bulletins, and announcements can spotlight urgent data issues, guide staff toward timely updates, and create real accountability across schools. This session shares practical strategies and real examples of transforming SIS start pages into powerful tools for communication, monitoring, and school improvement.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 208

Presenter: Kevin Combs

Discover the U.S. Department of Labor's AI Literacy Framework--released February 2025--in this dynamic concurrent training session! Master the five core competencies: understanding AI principles, exploring uses, directing tools effectively, evaluating outputs, and using AI responsibly. Embrace seven proven delivery principles for hands-on, context-rich, human-centered learning that builds judgment, creativity, and agility. Empower yourself, your team, or students to thrive in an AI-powered workplace. Gain practical strategies for ethical, innovative AI adoption and stay ahead in America's evolving workforce. Secure your spot--future-proof your skills today!

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/27/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 209

Presenter: Aveene Coleman

Chronic absenteeism continues to challenge schools nationwide, and accurate, timely reporting is essential for both compliance and student support. This session equips participants with a clear understanding of state and federal requirements related to chronic absenteeism and truancy, highlighting key definitions, reporting expectations, and legal considerations. Attendees will engage in interactive scenarios and guided discussions that will translate policy into practice.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Room: Ballroom A

Presenter: Deidre Pukl

Co-Presenter: Laura Beckham

Move beyond the clip art and explore how AI image generation can transform student demonstration of learning. This session focuses on how students in grades 3-12 can use generative tools to synthesize complex concepts into visual products. Through student examples we will examine how generative image prompts and products reveal student depth of understanding, increase engagement, and provide educators with a powerful, creative lens to evaluate mastery across the curriculum.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Coleman Brown

Struggling to check for understanding with every student, every day? This session is your solution. We'll dive into EduProtocols, a powerful toolkit of simple, repeatable lesson frames/strategies designed to reduce prep time while maximizing student engagement and feedback. In this 60-minute, hands-on session, you will learn and practice 3-4 protocols that provide immediate, actionable evidence of student progress. Leave with a clear strategy to simplify your planning, amplify your impact, and make responsive, visible learning a consistent part of your routine.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Burt Lancaster

Lost and unaccounted devices can quickly create a significant budget drain for school districts. This session reveals the true cost of device loss using real-world data and a live Device Loss Calculator, along with a case study from Newport News Public Schools (VA) on improving audit and accountability practices. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to improve visibility, reduce losses, and protect their technology investment, without increasing workload.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Derek Berry

This presentation covers the basics of creating an app, and is designed for teachers or anyone who works with teachers. However, no coding experience is required! I'll walk you through the basics, sharing some useful tips and tricks to help get you started. Whether you are looking for ideas for your own classes or you want to help students develop an app, this session will help you take the first steps toward achieving your goals.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Sharon Fullard

Co-Presenter: Kristen Rebollar

This session explores how DISCUS can be used to create engaging, student-centered learning experiences for all ages. Attendees will gain strategies for integrating DISCUS into both classroom and home learning environments. Instructional approaches will include flipped learning models, WebQuests, and other multimedia-rich activities. Participants will leave with actionable ideas for immediately implementing DISCUS resources to enhance instruction and support diverse learner needs. These resources are free to families residing in South Carolina.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Courtney White

K–12 IT is stuck in a tug-of-war between fast teacher support and the structured data technicians need, causing "reactive firefighting" and a "Hidden Tax" of lost instructional hours. This session shows how Generative AI eliminates this trade-off. Pivot from the "Manual Labor" support model to the "AI Way," where AI extracts context, urgency, and Asset IDs from plain English. Automate the "Top Ten" high-volume tickets to reallocate technician time for high-value projects and ensure accurate leadership data for budgeting. Learn to protect "Instructional Presence".

Track: IT Infrastructure & Technical Services

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Gayle Whitlock

Co-Presenter: Danielle Tarvin

This session explores practical strategies for creating accessible virtual learning environments for students receiving special education services. Participants will learn how to use digital tools, accommodations, and inclusive design practices to support diverse learning needs in online settings. The session highlights ways educators can provide accessible content, scaffold instruction, and foster meaningful engagement for SPED students in virtual classrooms.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Katie Jo Bolchoz

This session explores how artificial intelligence can enhance learning while maintaining ethical and responsible use in schools. Participants will gain practical strategies for integrating AI tools, promoting academic integrity, and protecting student data. Through real-world examples and collaborative approaches, educators will leave empowered to use AI creatively, safely, and effectively in their classrooms.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Paige Mitchell

Co-Presenter: Rob Stratton

Explore the latest developments to South Carolina's Instruction Hub--a statewide leading object repository designed to support K-12 teachers with high-quality instructional materials. Available for free to all SC public schools, Instruction Hub offers ready-to-use resources to help streamline lesson planning with engaging, standards-aligned content. Discover curriculum resources which also include your ELA and Math adopted materials and learn about plans for additional materials focused on CTE and Visual Arts coming soon.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Ballroom A

Presenter: Cathy Wells

Feeling overwhelmed by grading, planning, and differentiation? What if you had a built-in assistant to help lighten the load? In this session, discover how to use AI alongside Canvas to streamline your workflow, enhance feedback, and create engaging learning experiences in less time. Participants will walk away with practical, ready-to-use strategies for generating assignments, providing meaningful feedback, differentiating instruction, and building assessments--all with the support of AI. Whether you're new to AI or already experimenting, this session will equip you with tools you can use immediately.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Tonia Gardner

Effective student data systems depend on strong people and processes, not just technology. This session shares real-world district examples of building a successful data team that supports PowerSchool, Ed-Fi, and state reporting. Participants will learn how to define roles, improve accountability, and implement practical strategies that reduce data errors, eliminate silos, and support administrators with accurate, real-time data aligned to South Carolina Department of Education requirements.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Debbie Tannenbaum

Collaboration in the early years often feels like "parallel play," and the fear of "messed up work" keeps many teachers from trying digital group projects. This session provides a scaffolded path for young learners, moving from defining digital space (Turn-Taking Collaboration) to shared space (Color-Coded Collaboration). Attendees will walk away with clear "bumpers" and strategies to establish a culture of partnership from the very start.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Josh Shepard

This session shares practical lessons I wish I knew as a district technology leader, focusing on leadership, vendor relationships, and negotiations. We'll cover how to evaluate vendors beyond the demo, build true partnerships, and navigate procurement with confidence. Attendees will gain real-world strategies for balancing district priorities, managing stakeholders, and making informed decisions from both the district and vendor perspective.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Caitlin Carmendy

Co-Presenter: Erin Trahan

In this unconventional, high-energy session, you'll step into a Top Chef–inspired experience where AI becomes your creative sous-chef. Through fast-paced interactive challenges, you'll explore how AI can spark fresh instructional ideas, remix strategies, and accelerate lesson design. Walk away with practical tools, new inspiration, and a digital "recipe book" of prompts and strategies to bring back to your classroom

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Gina Casazza

Students aren't just struggling with reading, they're disengaged, hesitant, and disconnected from it. Many librarians are seeing lower participation, reduced motivation, and fewer students choosing to read. This session introduces a simple, student-centered approach that makes literacy personal again. By helping students see themselves in the work, educators can increase engagement, rebuild confidence, and create meaningful connections to reading without adding more to their already full plates.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Nick LaFave

Want students creating high-quality videos without losing days of instruction? This session introduces a simple, structured framework that helps students plan, film, and share meaningful videos in a single class period. Participants will experience the process firsthand using the 5-4-3-2-1 filming technique and leave with practical strategies to boost creativity, engagement, and communication skills without the usual chaos of video projects.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Paula Yohe

Co-Presenter: Sheri Schultis

Enhance student safety and communication with dynamic, automated alerts in PowerSchool with the MBA Alert Creator Plugin. In this session, learn how to create and manage student alerts that are instantly accessible across admin, public, and teacher portals -- including Schoology. Discover how to communicate critical information such as transportation details (e.g., Bus to Day Care - PM, Car Rider – AM, Daycare Provides Transportation) and educational flags (e.g., ELA, ATEC Student, Gifted/Talented, Alternate Assessment) with staff in real time.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Dave Hinrichs

Co-Presenter: Christie Cloud

What if AI could help feedback feel more timely, specific, and actionable? In this engaging session, educators will explore how AI tools can support feedback that moves learning forward. Participants will leave with practical strategies, classroom-ready examples, and a clearer understanding of how to turn feedback into feedforward without losing teacher judgment.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Jackie Weber

Build local expertise or expand regional AI literacy among your educators by taking advantage of these opportunities. We introduce a 4-pronged framework designed to empower educators to embrace the integration of AI and data science. We will share impact data from our fellowship and institute programs, along with lessons learned.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Amanda Kee

Co-Presenter: Reico Barber

This session will walk participants through the CRDC reporting and coding process from a district and school-level perspective for the 2025-2026 school year. Attendees will learn how to identify required data elements, align them with PowerSchool, avoid common reporting errors, and create internal processes that make future submissions easier. Practical tips, timelines, and examples will help districts turn a complex federal requirement into a manageable workflow. The submission is due Spring of 2027.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Ashleigh Ringus

Don't settle for digital worksheets. Shift from tech consumption to intentional creation by designing Powerful Learning Experiences that are personal, authentic, and collaborative. In this session, discover how to use AI tools as a "behind-the-scenes" design partner to scaffold high-level lessons and rubrics. Then, explore student-facing tools that empower learners to solve real-world challenges and demonstrate mastery. Leave with a practical framework to transform your classroom into a hub of innovation.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: MeMe Jordan

Are your professional development initiatives stuck in a school-zone speed limit? It's time to shift gears. Join us as we explore "The Centurion Circuit"; a high-octane instructional coaching model that transforms AVID WICOR strategies into a gamified racing experience by utilizing innovative technology tools. By framing professional growth as a series of "laps" and "pit stops", this model incentivizes teachers to move from foundational tech usage to high-rigor student agency.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Jimmy Cate

Transform your classroom workflow in this high-octane, hands-on workshop. Participants will use Gemini Canvas to co-create comprehensive "Anchor Documents" before synthesizing that content into an interactive student hub using NotebookLM. By focusing on these two powerhouse tools, you will learn to build a multimodal learning ecosystem that empowers students as creators. Note: Participants must bring a device and a unit assessment or curriculum guide to transform during this session.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Accessibility & Inclusive Design

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Tyrecia Smith

Co-Presenter: MaLuisa Andrada

Get ready to reimagine learning! In this PD session, we'll dive into the power of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and how it transforms classrooms into hubs of curiosity, creativity, and real-world problem solving. You'll experience engaging, student-centered activities, explore practical strategies you can use right away, and collaborate with colleagues to design meaningful learning experiences. Whether you're new to PBL or looking to level up, this session will leave you inspired, energized, and ready to bring learning to life!

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Sean Osborne

Digital accessibility in schools is more than compliance; it's cultural groundwork. We all encounter digital barriers, and many everyday tools we rely on were originally created to overcome disability-related challenges. By normalizing accessibility early, we prepare students to become future workers who expect and design inclusive technologies. Educators also benefit from accessible environments, supported by the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department's services for disability-related needs, helping shape a more inclusive digital world.

Track: Accessibility & Inclusive Design

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Lucia Jacobs

The presentation will demonstrate how simple digital tools can provide alternative communication pathways for quiet or withdrawn students, allowing teachers to better understand student needs and respond with trauma-informed support.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Laura Beckham

Co-Presenter: Deidre Pukl

Stop worrying about "AI-proofing" and start designing for "AI-resilience." This session provides a practical framework for reimagining traditional assignments to ensure student thinking remains at the center. We will share a specific formula for creating authentic opportunities for students to harness the power of AI, while still maintaining academic integrity to truly measure student understanding.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Jason Jones

Artificial intelligence is changing how districts work with student data. In this session, explore practical ways SIS administrators and district leaders can use AI tools to analyze data faster, identify trends, generate reports, and automate routine tasks. Learn how AI can help districts move beyond compliance reporting and accelerate toward faster insights, smarter decisions, and more efficient data practices.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Shemia Yearwood

District teams often operate in two school years at once, balancing current year accountability requirements while preparing for the next school year. This session explores how districts manage competing priorities such as enrollment, scheduling, and reporting through student information systems and data tools. Participants will also see how AI can support planning, communication, and data analysis to keep teams aligned.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Chelsie Landy

Co-Presenter: Kelly Parker

Transform your K-5 classroom into a hub of student agency! This hands-on session explores Brisk, School AI, Adobe Express, and SchoolWork to elevate student self-reflection across all subjects. Learn to leverage these tools for personalized feedback and creative digital portfolios. Teachers will collaborate to build classroom-ready exemplars and foster metacognition. Please bring a device and ensure you are registered for these apps to maximize our interactive breakout time.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Tom Nawrocki

In an era of evolving digital threats, staying informed is the first line of defense. This session identifies the essential skills needed to protect your identity, personal data, and devices. We will dive into critical topics including phishing, social engineering, password integrity, and AI-driven tactics. Participants will gain practical, actionable strategies to foster a safer digital environment and become more proactive in safeguarding against sophisticated cyberattacks.

Track: Digital Citizenship & Online Safety

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Matthew Collier

Co-Presenter: Caryn Caruso

In the 2025-2026 school year, Lander University created an ad-hoc committee to investigate best practices in teacher prep programs to prepare preservice teachers to use A.I. and teach their own students the same. The results of this year-long project are presented in this session.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Abbey Clinton

Co-Presenter: Tammi Carter

Discover how to launch a dynamic, student-created news show in your school! This session will guide educators through every step--from initiating the application process and selecting students to developing content, filming, editing, and uploading for school viewing. Learn practical tools and tech tips to empower students as storytellers and broadcasters, fostering collaboration, creativity, and communication skills in a real-world media production setting.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Erin Darnell

Co-Presenter: Pan Inabinett

In this interactive session, educators will explore Discovery Education's Spotlight on Strategies, a collection of high-impact, classroom-ready instructional strategies designed to increase student engagement, deepen understanding, and support all learners. Participants will experience practical strategies that can be implemented immediately across grade levels and content areas, while discovering how to intentionally pair these approaches with digital resources to enhance instruction, but not replace it. Whether you're looking to energize discussions, differentiate learning, or create more meaningful student experiences, this session will equip you with simple, flexible strategies that deliver powerful results.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Russ Conrath

Explore how podcasting can transform student learning through creativity, collaboration, and research. This session introduces a structured, team-based approach where students produce and participate in podcasts using free, accessible tools. Participants will discover how podcasting fosters critical thinking, communication skills, and content mastery while engaging students in meaningful, student-driven learning experiences grounded in active and peer-based pedagogy.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/28/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Elizabeth Modzel

Discover how to harness the power of Canva's built-in artificial intelligence to save time and elevate your classroom materials. This session provides practical tips for designing engaging flyers, creating interactive review games, and building customized worksheets from scratch. Learn how AI can streamline your workflow, spark creativity, and help you produce professional-quality resources that enhance student learning with ease.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Jana Gunter

Ensuring clean data in PowerSchool for reporting periods is essential for accurate grading, compliance, and overall system integrity. By consistently utilizing SQL reports, state reports, and level data reports, schools can proactively identify and resolve issues, leading to smoother reporting cycles and improved data reliability.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Jess Richardson

Looking to maximize your classroom impact without draining your school budget? South Carolina provides incredible instructional technology resources for free, yet many of us aren't fully aware of what is available! In this session, we will explore the best free and state-provided digital tools. You will leave with a ready-to-use toolkit and practical strategies to implement these powerful platforms immediately.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Marlo Gaddis

Co-Presenter: Scott Smith

Thinking about CETL (Certified Education Technology Leader) certification but not sure where to start? This engaging session offers a clear, low-pressure introduction to the certification and what it means for today's K–12 technology leaders. You'll explore the mindset behind CETL, the impact it can have on your leadership, and what to expect from the two-day immersion experience. Whether you're just curious or already considering your next step, this session will help you decide if CETL is the right move for you--no pressure, just possibilities.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Whitney Kibler

Discover how AI can become a practical, time-saving partner for teachers. This session explores developmentally appropriate ways to use AI for lesson planning, parent communication, and classroom creativity. Participants will engage in hands-on practice generating activities, prompts, and resources, while learning strategies for safe, ethical, and effective implementation. Walk away with ready-to-use tools that lighten your workload and enhance learning for young children.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Sharonda Johnson

Discover how SCETV's digital tools can transform teaching and learning. This session explores how educators can leverage SCETV's digital resources to personalize instruction, support diverse learners, extend learning beyond the classroom, and increase student engagement through their use of our multimedia and interactive content. Participants will gain ready-to-use ideas and tools to create student-centered learning experiences that enhance outcomes through effective technology integration.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Michael Simmons

Accessibility compliance requires an intentional paradigm shift for those in government organizations who create digital website content that will be shared with the public in general. The compliance requirements may seem overwhelming and difficult to understand. This session will explore some basic, but important practices that can be easily adopted and incorporated into practice.

Track: Accessibility & Inclusive Design

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Alyson Peoples

Empower learners through choice, differentiation, and student voice using digital tools you already know. In this session, participants will reflect on current classroom tools, explore how multiple platforms can reinforce the same skill, and design a differentiated choice board for review and practice. Educators will also learn how to leverage tools that provide immediate, formative feedback to better support all learner

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Libbi Nelson

Co-Presenter: Bill Fritz

AI is already shaping how students learn and how their data is collected, but are schools ready? This session covers the essential K-12 AI and privacy topics; including key laws like FERPA and COPPA, how AI tools use data, and the risks around security, bias, and monitoring. Learn how to evaluate AI tools, protect student information, and set clear expectations for responsible use. Move forward with confidence , not guesswork!

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Privacy, Security & Compliance,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Amy Magaw

Let's face it--AI isn't going anywhere, no matter how we feel about it: good, bad, or indifferent. So, why not learn to use it to the best of your ability? Let AI help you in all aspects of lesson planning. Not getting the results you want from AI? Correct prompting is the key! You'll be amazed at your new results. Bring your laptops with you and try it out!

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Katie Mowery

Co-Presenter: Jessica Crowe

Many districts use PowerSchool primarily for compliance reporting--but its real power lies in instructional insight. This session demonstrates how to transform raw PowerSchool data into actionable strategies that improve student outcomes. Key Topics: Building meaningful dashboards using PowerSchool data Identifying at-risk students early (attendance, grades, behavior trends) Aligning PowerSchool reports with MTSS/RTI frameworks Using data to support teacher conversations and PLCs

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Gerardo Gancz

What if one form submission could notify stakeholders, update a tracker, and eliminate a 14-minute manual process -- automatically? In this session, you'll see real automations running inside an actual school right now, learn how AI writes the code for you, and leave with a clear plan to reclaim your school day. No programming experience required. Just a problem worth solving and a willingness to let technology do the work.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Tammi Carter

Co-Presenter: Abbey Clinton

Rev up your professional learning with Freeform! This session explores how instructional coaches and teachers can use Freeform to design engaging, collaborative, and visually rich professional development spaces. Discover strategies to enhance coaching cycles, boost teacher engagement, and sustain ongoing growth. Participants will leave with practical ideas to shift PD into high gear and drive meaningful instructional impact in their schools.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Greta Flinn

Attend this session to learn how to use Gemini to produce quality instructional materials and interactive study materials almost as quickly as a pit crew can change tires on a race car. You will learn how to create standards-aligned activities, content-based presentations, notebooks with study materials, and customized chatbots that guide student learning. While the presentation will be focused on Gemini, some of the information shared is transferable to other AI tools.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Debbie Tannenbaum

Are you tired of the "Whack-a-Mole" approach to EdTech, where you're constantly chasing the newest app? It's time to shift from tech consumption to intentional creation. In this session, Debbie Tannenbaum introduces her "Essential 5 Cs" framework--Clickable, Choice, Curation, Collaboration, and Connection. Discover how to use these five pillars to build a sustainable system of student agency and help young learners create meaningful digital artifacts.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Toni Rose Deanon

Stop wasting teachers' time. Create Professional Learning experiences that are intentional, meaningful spaces where educators are excited to participate. Learn strategies to move beyond compliance, reigniting purpose and building a culture of genuine, collaborative growth.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Kimber Nelson

Co-Presenter: Katie Britton

Join us for SOS: Strategy Smackdown, where the best of the best media-based instructional strategies collide in a high-energy, dynamic showdown! This session will showcase the most effective and innovative techniques sourced from Discovery Education's renowned Spotlight on Strategies (SOS) series. This will include live demonstrations of 8 different SOS Strategies and participants will vote for the final winner!

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Amy Fetzer

Based on my current UofSC dissertation research on the use of AI chatbots to motivate students and potentially improve performance, educators will learn activities and ways to utilize chatbots to help students collaborate with AI to learn new content.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 12:45 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Stephanie Williams

Co-Presenter: Elise Seymour

Greenville County Schools didn't react to AI -- they led it. In partnership with MagicSchool, district leaders built a deliberate three-year implementation plan that moved from foundational understanding to systemwide practice. They sequenced professional learning for educators and administrators, introduced AI literacy before students ever touched a platform, and expanded student use through moderated, safe environments. Participants will leave with a replicable, leader-level model for turning AI policy into intentional, sustainable district practice.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Jeannette Johnson

Use Excel to take your PowerSchool data from raw and buried in a table to usable for all your stakeholder groups. We will look at basic clean up tools as well as text analysis to make data meaningful quickly to share with school and district admin.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Isti Sanga

This proposal seeks to generate discussion among K-12 educators regarding AI in the education industry. The presentation is designed to discuss a proposed Model for Preparing AI-Competent Teachers who are able to leverage AI to address the critical gaps in creating and diffusing an AI integration knowledge network that promotes deep thinking and learning ownership in K–12 education, building upon the foundation of a holistic AI competency framework developed for teachers by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO, 2024). Additionally, the presentation will discuss ways to prepare teachers to aligns classroom AI use with design based research (DBR) and evidence-based instructional design framework focusing on a 6 Ps AI-Integrated Instructional Framework (Hung, 2025): 1. Pedagogy, 2. Process-driven assessment, 3. Privacy, ethics, and security, 4. Prompt engineering, 5. Platform Integration, and 6. Prosocial Participatory Learning.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Allison Hall

Canva has so much to offer-- but are you one of the few on your campus using it? This session will provide PD resources that are easy to share with others in your building, from finding the right template and elements to using tools like bulk create and Canva Classroom. This session will also provide resources for introducing students to Canva and helping them comfortably learn to navigate the program.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Melissa McCrary

Co-Presenter: Janet Evans

What if AI could save you time while increasing student engagement? In this session, explore how tools like Brisk, EdPuzzle, Kami, Suno, MagicSchool, and other AI-powered tools can support planning, differentiation, and feedback in secondary classrooms. You'll also learn practical strategies for teaching students to use AI responsibly by fostering effective prompting, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making, while maintaining academic integrity.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Theresa Paterra

Participants will learn about digital LEGO bricks in an interactive software that is adaptable for various levels with individual students or groups. This Learning Through Play methodology increases Literacy, Numeracy, and Physical skills, along with critical thinking, problem-solving, and aligns with SOLE (Self Organized Learning Environments).

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Rachel Price

Streamlining Support outlines best practices for a Technology Helpdesk. This session shows how to define purpose, provide timely tech solutions via phone, remote support, ticketing, and onsite repairs. The session will cover key components and types of helpdesks. It will emphasize customer service, documentation, communication, training, proactive maintenance, and continuous improvement to keep technology working for users.

Track: IT Infrastructure & Technical Services

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Katie Britton

Co-Presenter: Kimber Nelson

Join us for SOS: Strategy Smackdown 2.0, where the best of the best media-based instructional strategies collide in a high-energy, dynamic showdown! This session will showcase 8 more effective and innovative techniques sourced from Discovery Education's renowned Spotlight on Strategies (SOS) series. This will include live demonstrations of 8 new SOS Strategies and participants will vote for the final winner!

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Christie Cloud

Co-Presenter: Dave Hinrichs

What kind of rockstar teacher are you? In this high-energy, interactive session, educators will take a BuzzFeed-style quiz to discover their rockstar teacher persona while exploring AI tools for planning, creativity, feedback, and student engagement. Participants will leave with practical ideas, fresh inspiration, and a clearer sense of which tools best fit their style and classroom goals.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Carey Fetting-Smith

This session is for school leaders and administrators who want to move from reactive to proactive when it comes to technology in their schools. Join The Social Institute as we break down the latest A.I., device, and social media trends shaping student behavior -- and what they mean for school culture, policy, and staff support.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Kevin Lewis

How can institutions make smarter, safer decisions about educational technology? This session explores the practical work of app vetting at 1EdTech how trust is evaluated, risks are surfaced, and better decisions are made about the tools entering learning environments. Attendees will get a closer look at the thinking, process, and real-world value behind more intentional edtech review.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems,Secure & Safe Learning Environments,Digital Citizenship & Online Safety,Privacy, Security & Compliance

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Laney Rogers

Co-Presenter: Shan Lewis

Take your students on virtual adventures that spark curiosity and agency! In this session, explore a collection of ready-to-use virtual field trip resources available to South Carolina teachers and discover strategies for empowering students to share their learning through digital storytelling and creative projects. We will focus on virtual field trips through Discovery Education, Streamable Learning, and Knowitall.org.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Lisa Nemargut

Research shows 85% of technology pilots never reach full implementation. This session explores why successful pilots create a false sense of readiness and what district leaders can do about it. Attendees will learn a five-dimension framework for evaluating adoption readiness before committing to a full rollout, including how to identify structural gaps and ask better questions of vendors before signing multi-year contracts.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Lori Ramey

AI integration can support teaching and learning when paired with human expertise, professional discernment, and clear accountability. This session offers a practical framework that educators and leaders can use to decide when AI is helpful, when it is risky, and what should remain firmly human-led. Participants will consider common use cases in planning, communication, feedback, and instructional support to distinguish lower-risk from higher-risk applications of AI in the classroom.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Cala Cater

Discover how to bring STEAM to life for all learners through inclusive, hands-on strategies tailored for special education. This session highlights practical ways to adapt science lessons, integrate 3D printing, and use assistive technology to increase engagement and access. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas, tools, and approaches to foster creativity, problem-solving, and meaningful participation for students with diverse needs.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Lance Curry

Discover the power of Google Earth as a versatile tool for teachers of all subject areas. Dive into innovative ways to craft virtual field trips, unique presentations, and engaging student projects. Fasten your seat belts and stow your belongings for takeoff. Where would you like to go first?

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Kristen Rebollar

This training highlights how Discus supports effective e-learning through easy access to high-quality digital resources. Participants will explore tools for research, literacy development, and personalized instruction, while learning strategies to integrate Discus into virtual and blended environments. The session emphasizes engagement, accessibility, and practical applications that enhance student learning across content areas and grade levels.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Lynette Dickerson

AI PD is everywhere, but not all of it improves teaching and learning. This session equips leaders and educators to evaluate AI professional development for real classroom impact. Participants will use a simple decision framework to match PD to goals, readiness, and context; spot red flags (tool-first, compliance-only, inequitable access); and select supports that build confident, responsible, instructionally aligned AI use.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Shaun Shelton

Improving attendance requires more than tracking absences. This session will show how schools can use technology tools, data, and intentional family communication to address attendance challenges and strengthen parent engagement. Participants will learn practical strategies for early intervention, meaningful outreach, and building systems that help families stay informed, connected, and involved in supporting consistent student attendance.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Bekir Mugayitoglu

This workshop explores how Makey Makey and Scratch can be combined to support creative computing and interactive design in classroom environments. Participants will collaborate in teams to design hands-on activities that teach concepts using Scratch programming and Makey Makey as a physical interface. The session emphasizes experimentation, interactive learning, and connecting coding concepts to tangible projects, providing practical strategies for engaging students in classroom settings.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Dave Hinrichs

Co-Presenter: Christie Cloud

What if professional development felt more like a museum than a mandate? In this interactive session, educators will explore a museum-inspired model for professional learning that values choice, relevance, and curiosity. Participants will leave with practical ideas for designing PD that is more engaging, meaningful, and aligned to how adults actually learn.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: LaNishia Berry

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how students approach writing. This session focuses on how educators can use AI as a supportive literacy tool rather than a shortcut for completing assignments. Participants will explore strategies for incorporating AI into brainstorming, drafting, and revision while preserving critical thinking, student voice, and authentic engagement in the writing process.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Belinda Merkelis

Discover how educators can integrate generative AI tools with Universal Design for Learning to create inclusive, engaging lessons. This session provides practical strategies, real classroom examples, and tools to support multiple means of engagement, representation, and expression, to help all learners succeed while saving planning time and boosting student motivation and achievement.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: April Garrett

Co-Presenter: Laurie D'Amico

Discover how to implement flexible small group rotations that meet students where they are. Learn practical strategies for station setup, quick formative assessments for grouping students on the fly, classroom management, and maximizing your instructional time. Perfect for middle school teachers ready to move beyond whole-class instruction and boost engagement, confidence, and achievement for all learners.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Chelsie Landy

Co-Presenter: Kelly Parker

Move beyond digital worksheets and transform your elementary classroom into a dynamic hub of exploration! This hands-on session dives into a curated toolkit of K-5 technology--including School AI, Brisk, StopMotion, and Adobe Express--designed to boost student agency and measurable growth. Explore versatile tools that cater specifically to young learners while gaining practical strategies to differentiate instruction, provide student choice, and foster high-energy engagement. Teachers will have time to create classroom exemplars and debrief with peers. Please bring a device and ensure you have registered for the featured apps.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Amy Broman

Co-Presenter: Ashley Priem

This session offers a hands-on, practitioner-led approach to the evolving landscape of literacy. We will move beyond basic chatbots to explore a sophisticated ecosystem of AI tools--including Google Gemini, NotebookLM, and Storybook--to redefine how we use, analyze, and generate information. Attendees will transition from traditional "linear reading" to a dynamic, multi-modal evolution of the research and writing process.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/29/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: Liz Hood

Artificial intelligence is transforming world language instruction. This session explores practical applications of generative and interactive AI -- from conversation partners that build speaking confidence to tools that streamline assessment and personalize learning for every student. Grounded in current and emerging best practices, this session is designed for educators at all experience levels. Walk away with concrete strategies and tools you can implement immediately in your foreign language classroom

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Shaun Shelton

Co-Presenter: Scott McQueen

Every district has a Friday attendance problem. But what do you do about it? When Jasper County School District in South Carolina stopped treating all absences the same and let the data lead, chronic absenteeism dropped 27% in a single year. This session unpacks how they did it, disaggregating by day, grade, and student group to get the right message to the right family at the right time, including an honest look at where the approach fell short.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Katie Britton

This session shares a scalable, system-wide model for expanding access to STEM and learning technologies through a Mobile Learning Lab. Learn how our team designed, funded, and sustained a program that brings hands-on STEM and emerging technologies into classrooms, engages community partners, and extends learning through tool lending programs. Walk away with actionable steps to replicate this model in your own district.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Rebecca Corey

In this interactive session, educators will explore how to use DeltaMath to improve student practice and feedback in secondary math classrooms. Participants will experience the platform as students, learn how to create accounts, and see practical classroom applications. Strategies for differentiation, assignment design, and progress monitoring will be highlighted to help teachers implement DeltaMath in ways that support engagement, efficiency, and meaningful mathematical understanding.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: David Sallay

Co-Presenter: Stephanie Swiderski

This session introduces the Student Data Privacy Consortium (SDPC)--a collaborative community of educators, alliances, vendors, and technologists working to solve real-world privacy issues. We will also dive deep into the National Data Privacy Agreement (NDPA) and how you can leverage it to secure strong privacy protections while saving time and legal costs for your organization.

Track: Privacy, Security & Compliance

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 104/105

Presenter: Bekir Mugayitoglu

This session introduces an interactive activity that helps participants understand foundational artificial intelligence (AI) concepts through a hands-on classification task. Attendees will explore how computers learn from labeled examples to distinguish between different objects. The activity highlights key ideas such as data labeling and supervised learning, demonstrating how humans guide computers by providing correct examples and categories during the learning process.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Gina Casazza

Many students struggle with reading because they don't see themselves as readers. This session shows how shifting students into the role of "author" transforms engagement, confidence, and participation. Educators will learn a simple framework that helps students create their own stories, take ownership of their voice, and become more invested in literacy--turning reluctant readers into motivated, engaged learners.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Toni Rose Deanon

This session demonstrates how to pair Insta~Lesson's classroom-ready materials with a blended, self-paced, and mastery-based instructional model. Participants will learn to leverage blended instruction and self-paced structures to meet every student's needs in the math classrooms. Re-engineer your teaching with mastery-based learning to improve student achievement while making your career more sustainable.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Christopher Williams

Co-Presenter: WHITNEY WILLIAMS

This session introduces the Career Pathway Builder, a scalable model designed to help schools connect STEM learning to real-world career outcomes. Participants will explore how to integrate emerging technologies such as drones and AI into structured pathways that align with workforce demands. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to design, implement, and sustain career-connected programs that increase student engagement, strengthen CTE alignment, and prepare learners for high-growth industries.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning,Career & Emerging Technologies

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Jessica Koon

Co-Presenter: Tim Cooper

Join York School District One technology leaders as we share our district's journey implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) in PowerSchool SIS to strengthen data security and protect staff and student information. We will outline our rollout process, including pilot testing, technical configuration, communication strategies, and key lessons learned. Attendees will leave with practical insights and actionable steps for deploying MFA in their own PowerSchool environments.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Room: Room 206

Presenter: charlotte schlamp

Digital citizenship has a new frontier: artificial intelligence. This session equips educators with practical strategies for teaching students to use AI tools ethically, critically, and responsibly. Participants will explore how to model responsible AI use, recognize AI-generated work, and build student capacity to evaluate AI outputs. No prior AI experience required -- just a commitment to preparing students for a world where AI literacy is an essential life skill.

Track: Artificial Intelligence

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Ballroom B

Presenter: Jason Jones

Your Student Information System captures thousands of data points, but critical insights often remain hidden in plain sight. In this session, we'll explore the common blind spots districts miss when analyzing SIS data and how to uncover signals that reveal risk, opportunity, and data quality issues. Learn how to identify high-value indicators and turn overlooked data into actionable insight that helps your district stay ahead.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Ballroom C

Presenter: Caty Carmendy

Co-Presenter: Erin Trahan

Get ready for a high-energy smackdown! This fast-paced, March Madness–style session will showcase 8 powerful active learning strategies designed to supercharge student engagement. Participants will walk away with ready-to-use ideas they can immediately implement in their classrooms. Which strategy will rise to the top of your "Must Try This" list for the rest of this school year?

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 101

Presenter: Dwayne Bryant

Strong schools are built by strong teams. This interactive leadership workshop equips educators and school leaders with practical strategies to strengthen teamwork, communication, and collaboration. Participants will explore leadership principles, behavioral styles, and team dynamics that impact workplace culture, morale, and productivity. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to build cohesive, high-performing teams that support staff well-being and student success.

Track: Leadership & Professional Learning

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 102/103

Presenter: Neil Lovering

Co-Presenter: Carie St Laurent

As AI becomes ubiquitous in K-12 education, districts face a critical challenge: how do we harness its power while protecting students in both physical and digital spaces? This interactive session dives into building "Secure & Safe Learning Environments" that integrate AI responsibly. We will explore how modern technology, including AI, can be leveraged to create secure, inclusive, and safe learning environments for K-12 students. Attendees will learn about cybersecurity strategies, physical safety technologies, and the responsible use of AI to enhance educational experiences while protecting students and staff.

Track: Secure & Safe Learning Environments

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 104/105

Presenter: Debbie Tannenbaum

Move beyond generic prompts and discover how to use AI as a custom "thought partner" for accessibility. This session demonstrates how to use Google Gemini and other AI tools to instantly generate leveled texts, visual scaffolds, and sentence frames aligned with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles. Attendees will learn to empower Multilingual Learners and Students with Disabilities, ensuring every child's voice is heard in the digital classroom.

Track: Artificial Intelligence,Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 202

Presenter: Kellie Smith

Your upper elementary students are hungry for coding--but the idea of starting a coding club feels daunting. Here's the truth: starting a coding club doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this energetic, practical session, you'll hear real stories from a teacher who launched two unique coding clubs--Girls Who Code and LEGO Robotics--and survived to tell the tale. We'll walk through the messy, honest details: what worked brilliantly, what flopped spectacularly, and everything in between.

Track: Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 203

Presenter: Catherine Owens

Discover how virtual reality can transform instruction across grade levels using Oculus Quest headsets and curated YouTube 360° immersive videos. This session shares practical classroom examples, device management strategies, and methods for integrating virtual field trips into standards-aligned lessons. Participants will also explore a custom AI planning assistant that helps teachers design engaging pre-activities, guided viewing tasks, and meaningful post-learning assessments to deepen student understanding.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology ,Student-Centered & Innovative Learning

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 204

Presenter: Marty Schultz

BuddyBooks helps struggling readers build fluency, comprehension, and confidence through AI-supported co-reading. Students and the computer alternate reading from high-interest digital books, increasing engagement while reducing frustration. The session will show how BuddyBooks strengthens daily reading practice, supports comprehension, and gives educators actionable data to target instruction more effectively for students with dyslexia and other reading disabilities.

Track: Teaching & Learning with Technology

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 205

Presenter: Zach Sheppard

Co-Presenter: Josh Shepard

South Carolina's incident management, truancy, and attendance requirements can be complex. Learn how to detect and prevent common incident management and truancy errors in the SIS, including errors preventing Ed-Fi publishing. This session shares practical takeaways from districts to help improve data practices, student retention, and overall student success.

Track: Student Data & Information Systems

Date: 10/30/26

Time: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Room: Room 206