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Access the pages below to learn more about our conference, registration, speakers and sponsors. Visit our Innovation Summit site for details about the venue, food, lodging, purchasing a t-shirt, and more.
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Thursday, July 31
 

9:00am CDT

Keynote with James Nottingham: Learning Begins at the Edge of Challenge
Thursday July 31, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Main Ballroom
Learning Begins at the Edge of Challenge: Join James Nottingham, renowned author, consultant, and founder of the Learning Pit®, as he explores how embracing uncertainty and intellectual discomfort can accelerate student growth. In this keynote, James will share his four-stage framework for deep learning, illustrating how educators can create classroom cultures where curiosity, critical thinking, and perseverance thrive. Participants will leave with actionable insights to help students turn confusion into clarity and challenge into triumph.
Speakers
avatar for James Nottingham

James Nottingham

Learning Pit
James Nottingham is the creator of the Learning Pit, one of the most widely used models for teaching to emerge in the last 20 years. He is also the author of 12 books, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, and is listed in The Future 500, a "definitive list of the UK’s most forward... Read More →
Thursday July 31, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am CDT
Main Ballroom
  Keynote

10:30am CDT

Building a Better Curriculum: Align, Assess, Achieve
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Boston Ferry
A guaranteed and viable curriculum is the foundation of student success, but how do we ensure alignment, meaningful assessment, and impactful instruction? This session will explore a practical, step-by-step approach to curriculum review that prioritizes essential standards, intentional unit planning, and common assessments. Learn how to create clarity, consistency, and collaboration in your curriculum design while keeping student learning at the center. Whether you’re refining an existing curriculum or starting fresh, this session will provide actionable strategies to align, assess, and achieve results. Walk away with tools and insights to build a better curriculum in your school or district.
Speakers
avatar for Tiffany Jones

Tiffany Jones

Secondary Curriculum Specialist, Nixa Public Schools
MV

Melissa Villanueva

Secondary Curriculum Specialist, Nixa Public Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Boston Ferry
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

10:30am CDT

Calibrate Confidently: Examples of Creating Consistent Grading Pratices
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Short Creek 1
Do you ever feel like you grade harder or not hard enough compared to your teammates and you gave the same assignment or assessment? Are you wanting to create a more consistent grading environment for the students in your school? At the end of this presentation, participants will have research and examples of practices to take back to the classroom and their team on ways to calibrate the grading process to create consistency for their students.
Speakers
avatar for Abigail Groves

Abigail Groves

8th Grade History Teacher, Republic Schools R-III School District
avatar for Candace Miller

Candace Miller

8th Grade History Teacher, Republic Schools R-III School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Short Creek 1
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

10:30am CDT

Feedback That Fuels Growth
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Short Creek 4
Feedback is one of the most powerful tools educators have to impact student learning and growth. In this engaging session, we'll unpack evidence-based feedback practices grounded in research from Hattie and Marzano. Participants will gain practical strategies for providing effective, timely feedback that boosts student agency, clarifies learning targets, and promotes deeper understanding.
Speakers
avatar for Sierra Hufford

Sierra Hufford

Library Media Specialist, Republic Schools
MS

Marlee Scroggins

Grade 1 Teacher, Republic Schools
avatar for Jennifer Renegar

Jennifer Renegar

Data & Assessment Specialist, Republic Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Short Creek 4
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

10:30am CDT

Fostering a Trauma Sensitive Classroom with Rigor
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Cooper Creek 2
Come elevate your current practices on how to balance rigor, relationship building, routines, rituals, and maximize student potential in your classroom. Come see how microshifts can make MACRO progress and performance.
Speakers
CF

Cristen Frazier

Algebra Teacher, Waynesville R VI School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Cooper Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

10:30am CDT

GOWellness Network: Building a Collaborative Community for Staff Wellness
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Short Creek 2
The GOWellness Network is an opportunity for educators, administrators, and wellness champions to come together and build a supportive community focused on staff well-being. This session will foster collaboration, allowing participants to share best practices, explore innovative wellness strategies, and walk away with practical tools to enhance wellness initiatives in their schools and districts.
Speakers
NL

Nancy Leonard

Staff Wellness Facilitator, Republic School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Short Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

10:30am CDT

How to Win Students and Influence Behaviors
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Room Location TBA
In this breakout session, I’ll introduce the Rule of Seven, a concept from marketing in the business world that suggests people need at least seven positive impressions before taking action. In education, this means making intentional, daily connections with students—like greeting them at the door, attending their events, or a personalized class playlist. I’ll share practical examples for elementary through high school and provide a simple framework for implementing this in any classroom. These consistent interactions build trust and foster relationships, creating a safe, supportive environment where students feel valued, increasing engagement, participation, and their willingness to take academic risks.
Speakers
avatar for Joshua Carter

Joshua Carter

Teacher, Joplin High School
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Room Location TBA
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

10:30am CDT

Unlocking Literacy: Harnessing the Science of Reading for Grades 6-12
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Compton Ferry
Join us for an insightful session where we’ll share effective strategies and ideas for 6-12 classroom teachers, grounded in the science of reading. Drawing on the valuable insights from our district’s 6-12 teachers participating in LETRS, this presentation will offer practical, research-based approaches to enhance literacy instruction. Whether you're looking to strengthen reading comprehension, vocabulary, or writing skills, you'll leave with actionable strategies to support diverse learners and improve outcomes in your classroom. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from both research and real-world teacher experiences!
Speakers
avatar for Brittany Thompson

Brittany Thompson

K-12 ELA Instructional Facilitator/K-3 Reading Specialist, Carthage R-9 School District
avatar for Shanna Pugh

Shanna Pugh

District K-12 Math Facilitator, Carthage R-9 School District
I am an instructional facilitator for the Carthage R9 school district.
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Compton Ferry
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

10:30am CDT

What To Do When You Don't Know What To Do: A Focus on Tier Two
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Short Creek 3
Educators typically begin building MTSS behavior support at the universal, or tier one, level. Yet, very often, there is a need to start with tier two supports as many schools are "fat in the middle," meaning they have over 15% of their students who need some level of behavior support beyond tier one. This session will describe an effective tier two program; "Restorative Reset Method" developed in a Missouri school district that has effectively aligned numbers within tiers and as a result decreased office referrals by 48%. Student data and freely accessible resources will be shared.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Morton

Andrew Morton

Director of Student Services, Mt. Vernon Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Short Creek 3
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

10:30am CDT

The Power of a PoG: A case study
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Fall Creek
Empower your school district with a compelling Portrait of a Graduate. This presentation explores how defining shared aspirations for student success fuels meaningful community engagement. Discover how collaborative development of a Portrait unites stakeholders, fostering ownership and investment in transforming education. We'll delve into success beyond standardized tests, showcasing how a Portrait prioritizes essential skills important to your community. Learn how this framework transforms schools, aligning curriculum and instruction with real-world outcomes, and ultimately, preparing students for thriving lives.
Speakers
avatar for Theresa Ewald

Theresa Ewald

Associate Director, i4PL
Dr. Theresa Ewald is the former Assistant Superintendent of the Kettle Moraine School District,and an educational consultant with 30 years of experience in transforming learning for allstudents. Theresa coaches and mentors educational leaders, organizations and state leaders asthey... Read More →
avatar for Lance McClard

Lance McClard

Assistant Superintendent, Ste Genevieve Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am CDT
Fall Creek
  Breakout Session-Tier 1 Sponsor Showcase: Partnering with Member District

1:00pm CDT

#ShowMeApprentices in Southwest Missouri
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 1
A panel of Southwest Missouri schools will showcase real world experiences through Registered Youth Apprenticeships and discuss the processes and experiences they have experienced with program implementation. Panelists will share their perspectives of helping students achieve success in obtaining a market-value asset with occupations that they have been able to utilize within their career pathways, the related-training instruction required and the industry partnership experiences that they have encountered. This session will define the basic concepts of RYA and some quick easy steps to begin implementing this into local school districts.
Speakers
avatar for Betty Glasgow

Betty Glasgow

Registered Youth Apprenticeship Consultant, Missouri State University
After 32 years in education, I have spent the last year as the Southwest Regional Registered Youth Consultant for the state of Missouri. Before retiring, I spent the last 5 years building the BoMO Works Internship and Apprenticeship program for Bolivar High School. It is my passion... Read More →
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 1
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

1:00pm CDT

Assess, Impress, Progress: Crafting Quality Assessments and Tracking Growth
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Short Creek 4
We will dive into practical, research-backed strategies for crafting high-quality assessments that drive student growth. Participants will explore how to design a variety of assessment items and track progress effectively, ensuring assessments are clear, aligned with learning goals, and impactful. We’ll also discuss time-saving tools, including AI, to streamline the creation of proficiency scales and assessment item banks. By the end of the session, attendees will have actionable insights to enhance their assessment practices and support ongoing student progress.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Renegar

Jennifer Renegar

Data & Assessment Specialist, Republic Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Short Creek 4
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

1:00pm CDT

Books as Bridges: Building Language Comprehension Through Read-Alouds
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 2
Interactive read-alouds are a powerful way to build language comprehension, but teachers need the right tools to make them impactful. In this session, discover how to develop interactive read-aloud guides and text sets that support vocabulary, background knowledge, and critical thinking. We’ll share our process for creating resources that help our K-3 teachers explicitly teach the language side of Scarborough’s Reading Rope. Walk away with practical strategies and a clear framework for designing read-aloud supports. By the end of this session, participants will understand how to develop and implement interactive read-aloud guides that strengthen comprehension across classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsey Conner

Lindsey Conner

Elementary Literacy Specialist, Logan-Rogersville School District
Lindsey Conner serves as the Elementary Literacy Specialist at the Logan-Rogersville School District, where she leads professional development, supports curriculum development and initiatives, and provides coaching for classroom teachers. Before her current role, she supported young... Read More →
LD

Lindsey Dery

Third Grade Teacher, Logan-Rogersville School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

1:00pm CDT

Fresh Start: Foundational Wellness to Kick Off the School Year
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Short Creek 2
As educators, we dedicate ourselves to student success, but sustainable impact begins with our own well-being. Research shows that foundational wellness—including movement, proper nutrition and hydration, and quality sleep—directly affects cognitive function, emotional resilience, and overall job performance. This session will equip educators with evidence-based strategies to build and maintain wellness habits, fostering a more energized, focused, and resilient school year.
Speakers
NL

Nancy Leonard

Staff Wellness Facilitator, Republic School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Short Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

1:00pm CDT

From Data to Small Groups: A Simple Approach to Targeted Literacy Intervention
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Room Location TBA
Join us for an engaging session where participants will discover powerful strategies for harnessing data to inform literacy intervention in elementary classrooms. As a seasoned literacy coach, I will share actionable techniques for collecting and analyzing student data to make informed decisions about grouping, instruction, and progress monitoring. Attendees will learn how to seamlessly integrate evidence-based materials tailored to individual student needs, ensuring every learner receives the support they need to thrive. This session provides practical examples and ready-to-use resources for immediate classroom implementation, focusing on flexible grouping and data-driven instruction to boost literacy success in small group settings where personalized learning unlocks student potential. By embracing this transformative approach to flexible grouping for RTI, educators will be empowered to create inclusive and effective learning environments that meet the unique needs of all students.
Speakers
NH

Natosha Hulett

Literacy Coach/ District Reading Facilitator, Waynesville R-VI School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Room Location TBA
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

1:00pm CDT

Intentional Professional Learning Design Resulting in Implementation
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Compton Ferry
Professional learning that transfers from workshop to workplace with high levels of implementation is a challenge for all who lead professional learning sessions. Examine and apply a design model that supports the development of a quality professional learning session that increases the probability of implementation of learning into practice with the goal of making a difference for student learning.
Speakers
avatar for Martha Doennig

Martha Doennig

Director, Professional Learning, Springfield Public Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Compton Ferry
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

1:00pm CDT

Mini Lesson… Now What? A How To For Small Group Instruction
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 3
Are you looking to implement small group instruction? Do you wish your small groups were more effective? Whether you are just beginning to use small groups or you are ready for a refresh, come learn how to get the most of your instructional time. We will explore building accuracy, fluency, and comprehension within guided reading and literature discussion groups. We will also explore how to use leveled math groups to provide all students with success. Leave this session with a deeper understanding of how small group instruction can transform the teaching and learning in your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Jamie Myers

Jamie Myers

5th Grade Teacher, Branson Public Schools
5th Grade Teacher - Branson Buchanan Intermediate
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 3
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

1:00pm CDT

Relationships, Relationships, Relationships: The Foundation to Parent Communication and Engagement
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Roark Creek
Have you ever stared at your computer struggling to find the right words to put in an email to a parent? Have you felt panic rising as you clutch the phone prior to calling a parent? Do you find yourself needing practical strategies to increase parent involvement and engagement? If you can relate to any of these questions, this session is for you! Parent communication and engagement are critical to a student’s success, but we recognize this task can feel overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. In this session we will share ways to strengthen parent communication and engagement through practical experiences and research- based practices. You will learn the importance of strong communication in order to increase engagement and support from families, walking away with strategies to immediately implement in your own practice.
Speakers
avatar for Taylor Young

Taylor Young

Shook Elementary Assistant Principal, Marshfield R-I
avatar for Nicki Thompson

Nicki Thompson

Marshfield High School Principal, Marshfield R-I
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Roark Creek
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

1:00pm CDT

Shifting Your School/Classroom from Reactive to Proactive
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Short Creek 3
This session explores proactive, research-based strategies rooted in the science of behavior analysis to build a structured framework for student academic and behavioral success. Participants will examine key studies on student achievement, behavior management, and school-wide frameworks like MTSS, PBIS, and RTI. The session highlights evidence-based instructional strategies, including differentiated learning, formative assessment, and fostering a growth mindset. Additionally, it covers behavioral approaches such as PBIS, social-emotional learning, and restorative practices. Through discussion and action planning, attendees will develop practical steps to apply behavior analytic principles in their schools, ensuring a supportive environment that promotes both academic progress and positive student behavior.
Speakers
CR

Crystal Reiner

Principal/ Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Licking R-8 School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Short Creek 3
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

1:00pm CDT

Deep Dive with Keynote James Nottingham Part 2: Little Things Make Big Things Happen
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Old Glory - Hilton Promenade
James Nottingham’s breakout sessions focus on the “little things” that drive big improvements in learning. Through hands-on activities and real-world examples, James will show how techniques such as exploratory questioning, targeted praise, and fostering high expectations can transform classroom dynamics. Participants will explore how these subtle shifts can nurture resilience, independence, and a love of learning in their students. 
This will be 2 breakout sessions. You are welcome to attend the first, the second or both as different ideas will be shared in each session.
 
Speakers
avatar for James Nottingham

James Nottingham

Learning Pit
James Nottingham is the creator of the Learning Pit, one of the most widely used models for teaching to emerge in the last 20 years. He is also the author of 12 books, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, and is listed in The Future 500, a "definitive list of the UK’s most forward... Read More →
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Old Glory - Hilton Promenade
  Leadership Strand

1:00pm CDT

Community Classes: One Nixa, One Community Learning Together
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Boston Ferry
Promote community involvement with a strong commitment of learning about Nixa Public Schools community classes. Join us as we provide a one-stop destination for engaging, enjoyable classes and events for all ages by emphasizing learning, growing, and having a great time together. Embrace the spirit of community and fun, welcoming everyone to take part in ONE NIXA!
Speakers
avatar for Brooke Gantt

Brooke Gantt

Professional Learning Specialist, Nixa Schools
avatar for Gearl Loden

Gearl Loden

Superintendent, Nixa Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Boston Ferry
  Roundtable Session

1:00pm CDT

Navigating Freshman Year: Tips and Tricks for a Seamless Start
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Hensley Ferry
In this roundtable discussion, we’ll explore effective strategies to help freshmen transition smoothly into high school. We’ll discuss ideas for freshman orientation, tips for the first days of class, and the benefits of year-long freshman orientation courses. Share your experiences, learn from others, and discover new ways to support students during this critical time. By the end of the session, you’ll have actionable tools to ensure your students start their high school journey strong, with the skills and mindset needed to thrive both academically and socially throughout the year.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Bateman

Ashley Bateman

College and Career Instructor/ A+ Coordinator, Lebanon R-3
Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm CDT
Hensley Ferry
  Roundtable Session

2:00pm CDT

Beyond the Buzzword: Making RTI Work in Your Secondary Classroom
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Short Creek 2
Struggling to make RTI work at the secondary level? This session will provide practical, time-saving strategies to support all learners without overwhelming teachers. We’ll break down effective tiered interventions, explore data-driven decision-making, and discuss ways to engage students in meaningful progress. Learn how to implement RTI in a way that fits your classroom while fostering student growth. Whether you’re new to RTI or looking to refine your approach, this session offers realistic solutions you can use immediately. By the end of this session, participants will be able to implement targeted RTI strategies that drive student success at the secondary level.
Speakers
avatar for Mikayla Siebert

Mikayla Siebert

English Teacher, Republic High School
avatar for Katheryn Twente

Katheryn Twente

English Teacher, Republic High School
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Short Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

2:00pm CDT

Building a Culture of Instructional Improvement in the Secondary Environment
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Roark Creek
Are you a building administrator, instructional leader, or teacher leader seeking to positively contribute to the culture of instructional improvement in your building? In this session we will explore examples of collaboration, learning walks, teacher self-evaluations, and teacher-led PD which participants can implement to contribute to a richer culture of instructional improvement in the secondary environment. Emphasis will be placed on how to engage administrators and teachers in instructional conversations and coaching; implementation and organization of processes; and examples of how to encourage instructional risk-taking and growth mindset among teachers. Participants will leave this session with immediately-applicable resources.
Speakers
avatar for Nicki Thompson

Nicki Thompson

Marshfield High School Principal, Marshfield R-I
BH

Brad Hurley

Assistant Principal, Marshfield R-I
avatar for Kylie McCoy

Kylie McCoy

Assistant Principal, Marshfield R-I
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Roark Creek
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

2:00pm CDT

Effective Vocabulary Instruction for Student Success
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Fall Creek
Join us for a dynamic workshop on enhancing vocabulary instruction. We’ll explore key research on vocabulary development (LETRS, Vocabulary Playbook by Fisher & Frey, IMSE Morphology+, Shifting the Balance by Burkins, Cunningham, & Yates), focusing on how it impacts reading comprehension and academic achievement. Key Topics: Vocabulary Research: Understand the importance of both depth and breadth in word knowledge. What Words to Teach: Learn to prioritize high-impact words from Tier 1, 2, and 3. Best Instructional Practices: Discover evidence-based strategies like explicit teaching, word mapping, and interactive activities. Continued Practice: Explore ways to reinforce vocabulary retention through regular review and student-led practice. Leave with practical strategies to boost your students' vocabulary skills and improve their overall academic success.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Brown

Julie Brown

Elementary Literacy Specialist, Republic School District
Julie Brown serves the Republic School District as an Elementary Literacy Specialist. She's in her 17th year in education and her 5th year as a specialist. Prior to her current role, she supported elementary students as a first grade, second grade, and fourth-grade teacher. Julie... Read More →
avatar for Kathie Burton

Kathie Burton

Elementary Literacy Specialist, Republic School District
Kathie Burton serves Republic Schools as an Elementary Learning Specialist. Prior to her current role, she supported elementary students in the Republic School District for 29 years as a preschool teacher, kindergarten teacher, first grade teacher, second grade teacher, and K-5 literacy... Read More →
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Fall Creek
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

2:00pm CDT

Engage and Inspire: Effective Teaching Strategies for Today's Learners
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 1
In today's classroom, educators face the challenge of competing with distractions and students' limited attention spans. This session provides strategies to capture and maintain engagement through effective hooks, engagement techniques, and the importance of repetition and review, supported by the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve. Additionally, we will explore the key prerequisites for achieving cognitive engagement. At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to implement engagement hooks, sustain student attention, incorporate effective reps and review, and identify prerequisites for cognitive engagement in the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Katherine Morrison

Katherine Morrison

Instructional Coach, Ozark R6
I'm working my 17th year in education, the last six being as the math instructional coach for Ozark grades 7-12.  I love talking engagement strategies for any content area, but am focused on math.   I loved the book, Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl.  Personally... Read More →
avatar for Melisa Dodd

Melisa Dodd

Instructional Coach, Ozark R6
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 1
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

2:00pm CDT

Goal Setting: Let It Transform Your Classroom
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 3
Are you ready for students to take ownership of their behavior and their learning? In this session participants will learn how to use goal setting as a manageable tool to transform their classroom. This best practice has been adapted from Bill Zima’s "Mindsets & Skill Sets for Learning: A Framework for Building Student Agency" book. Come ready to hear teacher and student testimonials, and plan to leave with strategies to implement in August that will transform your entire year.
Speakers
avatar for Jamie Myers

Jamie Myers

5th Grade Teacher, Branson Public Schools
5th Grade Teacher - Branson Buchanan Intermediate
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 3
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

2:00pm CDT

GOCoach Network
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Boston Ferry
Are you passionate about coaching and supporting others? Are you focused on helping others grow in teaching skills which results in high levels of learning for our students? Our GOCoach Network for instructional coaches or those who assume the responsibilities of this role, provides an opportunity to participate in engaging conversations around pertinent topics in the areas of curriculum, instruction, and assessments. Each session will also share valuable coaching tips and resources. Participate in the GOCoach network and become part of a supportive and inspiring community that's passionate about transforming education. We will meet once each semester in person and once each semester via Zoom to allow more flexibility for schedules. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our teachers and students!
Speakers
avatar for Brooke Gantt

Brooke Gantt

Professional Learning Specialist, Nixa Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Boston Ferry
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

2:00pm CDT

GoLiteracy Network Session
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 2
Looking for strategies to strengthen literacy instruction in your district? Have questions about RSPs? Join us for a collaborative session designed for educators supporting literacy development. Connect with colleagues, gain practical insights, and leave with ideas to implement in your schools. This meeting will serve as the GoLiteracy Network’s first meeting of 2025-26.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsey Conner

Lindsey Conner

Elementary Literacy Specialist, Logan-Rogersville School District
Lindsey Conner serves as the Elementary Literacy Specialist at the Logan-Rogersville School District, where she leads professional development, supports curriculum development and initiatives, and provides coaching for classroom teachers. Before her current role, she supported young... Read More →
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

2:00pm CDT

Maximizing Collaborative Practices for Impact on Student Learning
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Compton Ferry
Professional Learning Communities are successful as a result of high levels of collaboration that are focused on the right outcomes in which all team members are highly engaged. While often taken for granted, to achieve this level of collaboration requires intentional group member engagement and careful facilitation. Explore strategies and skills needed of all group members that will result in teams collaborating around desired outcomes with the greatest effectiveness and efficiency.
Speakers
avatar for Martha Doennig

Martha Doennig

Director, Professional Learning, Springfield Public Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Compton Ferry
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

2:00pm CDT

Progression of Strategies for Multiplication Fact Fluency
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Short Creek 1
We will showcase Jennifer Bay Williams work in the area of Multiplication Fluency. We will walk our audience through the progression of teaching multiplication from basic fact knowledge and readiness and visual supports to development and use of strategies. We will also address assessing and tracking student's progression of multiplication fluency and support for striving learners.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Nguyen

Ashley Nguyen

Numeracy Specialist, Republic Schools
Ashley Nguyen currently serves as the part time K - 8 Numeracy Specialist alongside Andrea Pullen. She has spent her whole career with Republic Schools and is excited to continue her journey at Republic. Previous to her current role, she served at the Middle School teaching Special... Read More →
AS

Amy Stevens

4th Grade Teacher, Republic
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Short Creek 1
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

2:00pm CDT

GOData Network Session
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Short Creek 4
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, harnessing the power of data is paramount for informed decision-making and continuous improvement. This session invites anyone whose role includes data and assessment to explore strategies and innovations aimed at maximizing the potential of data-driven assessment practices. This meeting will serve as the GOData Network’s first meeting of 2025-26.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Renegar

Jennifer Renegar

Data & Assessment Specialist, Republic Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Short Creek 4
  Roundtable Session

2:00pm CDT

STEM Library...more than just books (2024 GoInnovate Grant Recipient)
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Hensley Ferry
This roundtable discussion will be about the process of implementing and running a STEM Library.
Speakers
avatar for Rachael Johnson

Rachael Johnson

STEM Librarian, Laclede County C5, Joel E. Barber School
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm CDT
Hensley Ferry
  Roundtable Session, 2024 GoInnovate Grant Recipient

2:00pm CDT

Innovative Leadership
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Old Glory - Hilton Promenade
Three area superintendents will be sharing their experience and learning about how to create a culture of innovative leadership. Their ideas will be applicable for teachers, principals, or central office leaders. Hear how everyone in a school’s (student, teacher, administrator) voice matters and must be engaged whether at the classroom or district level. Learn how to unpack your Core. Crud. Crust. These experiences must be leveraged to help you grow as an individual and as a leader.

Dr. Gearl Loden, Dr. Cody Hirschi and Dr. Dave Schmitz have years of lived experiences as quality educators and leaders. Their insights, passion, and knowledge will inspire any level educator. 
This is a must hear session!

Speakers
avatar for David Schmitz

David Schmitz

Superintendent, Lebanon R-3
avatar for Gearl Loden

Gearl Loden

Superintendent, Nixa Schools
CH

Cody Hirschi

Superintendent, Reeds Spring School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 2:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Old Glory - Hilton Promenade
  Leadership Strand

3:00pm CDT

3D Printing For STEM Classes and Beyond
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 3
3D printing has many applications for all classrooms including allowing the creation of custom models, and creating replicas of objects that otherwise would be out of reach of most classrooms. This session would focus on implementing the technology of 3D printing to the classroom. Teachers will be instructed on the basics of 3D printing, implementation, where to find models to print, 3D printing’s advantages and disadvantages, and the finances of 3D printing. The session will include a live demonstration of printing and an example lesson. Teachers will be given access to our collection of models for their own use.
Speakers
JL

John Locke

Science Teacher, Lebanon High School
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 3
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

3:00pm CDT

Ask Away! Sparking Engagement and Turning Reluctant Learners into Active Responders!
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 2
In this session, we'll dive into two powerful strategies from Marzano's framework to engage reluctant learners and boost classroom participation. Learn how to craft and ask in-depth questions that spark curiosity and encourage critical thinking, while also exploring techniques to increase response rates from students who are hesitant to participate. Through practical tips and actionable strategies, you'll walk away with tools to foster a more interactive and inclusive learning environment, ensuring every student has a voice.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Brandi Compass

Dr. Brandi Compass

Instructional Coach, Springfield Public Schools
With 16 years of experience in education, I have taught a wide range of subjects including kindergarten, 5th grade, 6th–8th grade mathematics, pre-algebra, algebra I, and geometry. I currently serve as an instructional coach at the middle school level, supporting teachers in refining... Read More →
avatar for Jeffrey Pettibone

Jeffrey Pettibone

Instructional Coach, Springfield Public Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Cooper Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

3:00pm CDT

Quick coping strategies for students…and maybe the teacher, too!
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Short Creek 2
As educators, we know our students are showing an increase in behavioral issues and struggle with emotional regulation. A survey done by Education Week shows that students’ problematic behaviors have increased, and teachers’ morale has decreased. The need for social and emotional learning (SEL) in the school setting cannot be denied. So how do we as teachers put that into action in our classrooms among all the other important lessons we are trying to teach our students? At the end of this session, you will be able to implement SEL and actionable coping strategies in your day-to-day lesson plans.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Deckard

Elizabeth Deckard

Special Education Teacher, Pleasant Hope R-VI
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Short Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

3:00pm CDT

Time to Talk Back! Building Understanding Through Meaningful Student Conversations
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Short Creek 1
Do you have math problem solvers in your classroom, or math mimickers? Turn and talk not effective? This session will enlighten and strengthen your teaching practice by revealing the power of student lead conversations and exploration of mathematics. Come participate in your own conversations, and leave with ways to immediately implement these strategies and build your own conversational classroom that will build student knowledge through their ability to critically examine their own work and the work of others.
Speakers
SG

Savannah Gregorio

Third Grade Teacher, Ozark School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Short Creek 1
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

3:00pm CDT

Unlocking Depth: Critical Thinking and Routines for Student Growth
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Short Creek 4
In this session, we’ll dive into the transformative strategies outlined in Michael McDowell's Rigor Redefined to elevate critical thinking in the classroom. Participants will explore how to effectively engage students in surface, deep, and transfer learning, ensuring that all learners can apply knowledge in meaningful ways. We'll also focus on routines that promote growth. Additionally, we’ll explore how AI tools can support and enhance these strategies, helping you facilitate critical thinking and growth in new, innovative ways. Join us for an enriching session that empowers you to drive rigorous learning outcomes in your classroom!
Speakers
avatar for Kimberly Pragman

Kimberly Pragman

Grade 3 Teacher, Republic School District
KC

Kristen Crouch

Grade 1 Teacher, Republic Schools
avatar for Jennifer Renegar

Jennifer Renegar

Data & Assessment Specialist, Republic Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Short Creek 4
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

3:00pm CDT

Unlocking the Power of Data: Optimizing your Data Collection System for Meaningful Impact
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Short Creek 3
Join us for an interactive session where you'll discover proven strategies for effective data collection that engages all stakeholders. Learn how to create systems that streamline data gathering, ensure inclusivity, and empower teachers, students, and families alike. Walk away with actionable insights on using data to drive impactful interventions that support student success. Whether you're new to data collection or looking to refine your approach, this session offers practical tools to enhance your school’s data-driven decision-making. Don’t miss the chance to transform your data into powerful action!
Speakers
CO

Christina O'Neill

Special Education Teacher, Nixa Public Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Short Creek 3
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

3:00pm CDT

Building Belonging: Leadership Strategies for Missouri Schools
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Boston Ferry
In Missouri schools, strong relationships are the heart of successful leadership. But with today’s growing responsibilities, it can be challenging for leaders to stay connected with every member of their team. This session offers practical, real-world strategies to help superintendents and administrators create a culture where educators feel seen, heard, and supported. Hear from Missouri education leaders as they share how they’re boosting engagement, trust, and recognition through intentional leadership practices and innovative tools like Lebra. Whether you're working to strengthen team culture or improve retention, this conversation will offer insights on how purposeful relationships and technology can help build a more connected and resilient school community.
Speakers
avatar for Nate Lichte

Nate Lichte

Vice President of K-12 Solutions, Lebra
Lebra is a leadership platform built to help school and district leaders strengthen culture and improve staff engagement through meaningful human connection. Designed with the unique challenges of K–12 in mind—like staffing shortages, tight budgets, and burnout—Lebra gives superintendents... Read More →
TO

Tyler Overstreet

Assistant Superintendent, Republic School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Boston Ferry
  Breakout Session-Tier 1 Sponsor Showcase: Partnering with Member District

3:00pm CDT

Connecting Classes to Community Project Giving Student a Real World Experience (2024 GoInnovate Grant Recipient)
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Hensley Ferry
Getting started on a project that brings Ag. Science, Pro-Start Foods, and Marketing together to get healthy foods to our community. Learning to work in groups with students that have different expertise and interest, but seeing how it can feed into a worth while endearvor.
Speakers
CN

Chantel Nicolay

Business Teacher, Librarian and FBLA Advisor, Spokane School District
avatar for Melanie Jordan

Melanie Jordan

Teacher, Spokane School District
KS

Kristi Stults

FACS Teacher and FCCLA Advisor (High School and Middle School), Spokane School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Hensley Ferry
  Roundtable Session, 2024 GoInnovate Grant Recipient

3:00pm CDT

GOTECH Director Network
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Ballroom Conference Room
GOCSD invites all Technology Directors in Southern Missouri to join a gathering of educational technology leaders. Gain fresh perspectives, insightful strategies, and innovative ideas when you participate in our network for Technology Directors. This dynamic network delves into timely topics of their preference, while staying updated on cutting-edge solutions presented by our partners. This exceptional network serves as a gateway to fostering meaningful connections, gaining insights into the endeavors of districts across the region, and securing access to an invaluable, cost-free support system.
Speakers
avatar for Christian Plaster

Christian Plaster

Tech, Branson Public Schools
avatar for Jeramie Price

Jeramie Price

Director of Technology, Sparta School District
Thursday July 31, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm CDT
Ballroom Conference Room
  Roundtable Session
 
Friday, August 1
 

8:30am CDT

BOOM! Leadership Systems That Save Time, Energy, and Your Sanity
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Cooper Creek 2
This high-energy BOOM session will walk attendees through four powerful leadership systems designed to streamline operations, empower teacher leaders, and build sustainable structures that save time and reduce stress. Each segment will be fast-paced and full of ready-to-use templates, calendars, tools, and ideas to take back immediately. When the timer buzzes, the next topic begins—whether you’re ready or not! At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to implement at least three time-saving systems in their building or department that support instructional leadership, culture building, and staff empowerment.
Speakers
VV

Veronica Vergara

Middle School Principal, Lebanon R3 School District
avatar for Kyle Nelson

Kyle Nelson

Assistant Principal, Lebanon R3
avatar for Greg White

Greg White

Assistant Principal, Lebanon R3
I have a passion for education and giving students experiences that inspire their desire for learning.
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Cooper Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

8:30am CDT

Boosting New Teacher Retention: Creating Sustainable Support Systems
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Short Creek 2
This session explores how embedded professional development (PD), follow-up coaching, and targeted training create systemic change in education by supporting and retaining new teachers. Participants will learn strategies to integrate ongoing mentorship and instructional coaching, ensuring teachers feel equipped and confident in their roles. By focusing on sustainable support systems, we can bridge the gap between training and practice, ultimately improving teacher retention and student outcomes. Join us to discover how investing in educators through meaningful, job-embedded PD leads to long-term success in schools.
Speakers
avatar for Karen Bohannon

Karen Bohannon

Literacy Instructional Coach, Ozark School District
Ms. Bohannon has six years of experience as an instructional coach and has also eight years of classroom teaching experience. She has a Master’s in Education from Missouri State University and is working towards her doctorate in Educational Leadership at Southwest Baptist University... Read More →
AD

Amy Dunn

Literacy Instructional Coach, Ozark School District
Dr. Amy Dunn brings over a decade of instructional coaching experience and a diverse educational background. She holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership, Curriculum and Instruction from Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri. Currently, she serves as a K–4 Instructional... Read More →
RT

Rachel Tabuya

Principal of West Elementary, Ozark School District
avatar for Kendra Scott

Kendra Scott

Principal of Ozark South Elementary, Ozark School District
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Short Creek 2
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

8:30am CDT

Partnering for Literacy: Empowering Parents to Support Striving Readers
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Fall Creek
To maximize the impact of Reading Success Plans, bridging the school-home gap is essential. This session equips teachers with practical strategies and resources to guide parents in supporting their striving readers. We'll explore how to demystify reading challenges, provide accessible at-home activities, and foster collaborative partnerships that empower both parents and children on their literacy journey.
Speakers
avatar for Kristin Maerke

Kristin Maerke

Reading Interventionist, Republic School District
Kristin Maerke serves as a reading specialist for the Republic, Mo. school district. She is passionate about guiding striving readers to be independent problem solvers through explicit phonics instruction. Kristin has been trained in, Orton Gillingham, Reading Recovery and LETRs... Read More →
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Fall Creek
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

8:30am CDT

Press Start To Level Up Your Classroom: Using Gamification To Turbocharge Engagement
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Roark Creek
Are you interested in gamifying your classroom but don't know where to start? Gamification can be as simple or involved as you want. Choose from three levels of integration: Easy, Medium, and Advanced. Gamify an individual lesson, a unit, or even a whole course. Zachary Hamby, a 2020 Missouri Teacher of the Year Finalist, will share his own experiences with gamification—including projects such as choose-your-own-adventure writing assignments, Pokemon-style card games, content-related social deduction games, gamified scoring guides, and even a semester-long house challenge and badging system. Teachers will leave with access to free resources for gamifying their own classrooms!
Speakers
avatar for Zachary Hamby

Zachary Hamby

High School Teacher, Ava R-1 Schools
For the last eighteen years, Zachary "Zak" Hamby has been a high-school English teacher in rural Missouri, and in 2020 he was a finalist for Missouri Teacher of the Year. Zak is also the author of a variety of textbooks: the Mythology for Teens series, the Reaching Olympus series... Read More →
RH

Rachel Hamby

High School Teacher, Ava R-1 Schools
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Roark Creek
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

8:30am CDT

Effective Co-Teaching leads to Meaningful Interventions
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Short Creek 3
Co-Teaching is growing and knowing how to effectively co-teach is not easy. We will go over the co-teaching model with how to effectively use it from the Regular Educator and Special Educator perspectives. Effective Co-teachings leads to effective interventions with all struggling learners and we will model examples of effective interventions. Co-taught or not you will leave with ideas to improve your teaching and make more effective interventions in your classroom/school for the 2025-2026 school year.
Speakers
DH

Dr. Hadlee Goldberg

Special Education Teacher, Ozark High School
avatar for Brandi David

Brandi David

Mathematics Specialist, Hand2Mind
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Short Creek 3
  Breakout Session-Tier 1 Sponsor Showcase: Partnering with Member District

8:30am CDT

Missouri Partnership Panel hosted by Curriculum Associates
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Boston Ferry
David will be hosting a panel of Experts from Partner Districts; join us as they explore how Curriculum Associates and i-Ready is enriching the lives of their leaders, educators, and students through Assessment, Core, and Services.
Speakers
avatar for Tracy Evans

Tracy Evans

Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, Lebanon R3
avatar for David Rogier

David Rogier

Educational Sales Consultant, Curriculum Associates
Founded in 1969, Curriculum Associates, LLC designs research-based print and online instructional materials, screens and assessments, and data management tools. The company's products and outstanding customer service provide teachers and administrators with the resources necessary... Read More →
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Boston Ferry
  Breakout Session-Tier 1 Sponsor Showcase: Partnering with Member District

8:30am CDT

Building Effective Behavior Supports for Students and Teachers
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Hensley Ferry
Engage in a collaborative discussion about building an effective school-wide behavior support system. Discuss policies and practices, including the roles of key staff members, the implementation of behavior support plans, data collection, and strategies for reteaching and reinforcing positive behaviors, and effective consequences. The discussion will focus on how well-supported teachers feel in managing student behavior and identifying areas for improvement and the collaboration with families.
Speakers
avatar for Sara Reynolds

Sara Reynolds

Assistant Principal, Marshfield R-1
JC

Jennifer Catron

Counselor, Marshfield R-1
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am CDT
Hensley Ferry
  Roundtable Session

8:30am CDT

Deep Dive with Keynote Dr. Katie Martin: From Insight to Action — Advancing Learner-Centered Shifts in Your Context
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Old Glory - Hilton Promenade
Join Keynote speaker Dr. Katie Martin in this interactive workshop that creates space to reflect on key ideas, engage in meaningful dialogue with peers, and consider what the learner-centered shift means in your unique context. Through guided activities and thought-provoking questions, participants will identify practices to leave behind, explore opportunities to build on strengths, and determine actionable next steps to evolve learning experiences for students and educators alike.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Martin

Katie Martin

CIO, Learner-Centered Collaborative
Dr. Katie Martin is the CIO of Learner-Centered Collaborative, the author of Learner-Centered Innovation, and Evolving Education, and an internationally recognized educator and coach for her approach to educator and student learning. She has worked directly with thousands of teachers... Read More →
Friday August 1, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Old Glory - Hilton Promenade
  Leadership Strand

9:30am CDT

Fact & Fiction: Integrating Literature with History for Deeper Learning
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Roark Creek
Should content areas be like foods sectioned off on a cafeteria tray—complementary but never touching—or blend for richer learning? While history deals with facts and literature with fiction, both express important truths about the past. History grounds literature in reality while literature gives history a voice. This session will demonstrate how literature and history can work together to provide students with a richer, more immersive learning experience. In this session, Zak and Rachel Hamby will share practical strategies and resources for incorporating history into everything from ancient literature to modern classics.
Speakers
avatar for Zachary Hamby

Zachary Hamby

High School Teacher, Ava R-1 Schools
For the last eighteen years, Zachary "Zak" Hamby has been a high-school English teacher in rural Missouri, and in 2020 he was a finalist for Missouri Teacher of the Year. Zak is also the author of a variety of textbooks: the Mythology for Teens series, the Reaching Olympus series... Read More →
RH

Rachel Hamby

High School Teacher, Ava R-1 Schools
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Roark Creek
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

9:30am CDT

From Stigma to Strength: How Student Leaders Are Revolutionizing Mental Health
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Short Creek 3
Picture this: A high school where students thrive as mental health ambassadors, breaking stigmas and transforming their school’s culture. That's exactly what's happening at Branson High School, Missouri's leader in mental wellness classes. In this eye-opening session, dive into the journey of how they’ve turned traditional mental health support on its head by putting students in the driver's seat through partnerships with Burrell Behavioral Health and Sources of Strength. At the end of this presentation, participants will be able to communicate the benefits and barriers to such programs and create a plan to launch within their own campuses.
Speakers
avatar for Hannah Banderman

Hannah Banderman

High School ELA Teacher, Branson Public Schools
avatar for Josh Cheezum

Josh Cheezum

High School Social Studies Teacher, Branson Public Schools
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Short Creek 3
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

9:30am CDT

LITTLE students reading BIG words: multisyllabic words in the elementary classroom
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Short Creek 1
Learning to read is the primary work of K-2 classrooms. That work includes learning letters, sounds, and lots of words...mostly one or two syllables with blends, digraphs, and vowel teams. All of that is needed...but so is learning to read multisyllabic words. If little readers don't learn to read big words, then the shift from "learning to read" in K-2 classrooms to "reading to learn" in 3-5 classrooms is going to be difficult. At the end of this presentation, participants will be able to enhance the work they are already doing to include bigger words in reading and writing!
Speakers
avatar for Laurie Fine

Laurie Fine

Reading Interventionist, Republic RIII Schools
I am a teacher who has spent years in first grade, among other things, and now LOVES the role of reading interventionist! I love to help students become the best readers and writers they can be and support their teachers throughout the process! 
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Short Creek 1
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

9:30am CDT

The Elephant in the School: Efficacy Development to Shift Learning in Your System
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Boston Ferry
We all want efficacy in our schools, but are we willing to do what it takes to create it? Are we creating the necessary time and space to design for the sources of efficacy? Are we manipulating the structures we have control over to ensure that talent is maximized and turnover is minimized? Explore one district’s attempt to reorganize time and space to create a collaborative climate and culture that maximizes staff efficacy development by paying attention to the sources that create it.
Speakers
GL

Garrett Lowder

Assistant Superintendent: Academics, Marshfield R-1 School District
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Boston Ferry
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

9:30am CDT

The Power of CONNECTION CODES: Building Better Teams, Stronger Students, and a Thriving School Culture
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Short Creek 4
Discover how the CONNECTION CODE can transform your school’s culture from the inside out. In this engaging session, Dr. Jarad Rinne and Mrs. Angela Loughridge share real-world strategies for using CONNECTION CODES to strengthen staff collaboration, enhance student relationships, and improve behavior across campus. Learn how understanding personality styles leads to more productive teams, empowered students, and a thriving educational environment.
Speakers
JR

Jarad Rinne

High School Principal, Licking R-8
AL

Angela Loughridge

JH Principal, Curriculum Director, Licking R-8
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Short Creek 4
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

9:30am CDT

Think Big: Transforming Special Education Math with Building Thinking Classrooms
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Short Creek 3
In this hands-on session, explore how to apply Peter Liljedahl’s 14 Building Thinking Classrooms principles in a special education setting. Engage in dynamic thinking tasks that reveal student thought patterns, provide meaningful practice for consumer math, and build student confidence. Discover how these fun, semi-structured tasks promote problem-solving and communication while offering creative opportunities for earning low-stakes points. Walk away with practical strategies to foster deeper mathematical thinking. At the end of the presentation, participants will have the tools to implement thinking tasks that encourage risk-taking, promote productive struggle, enhance math confidence, and uncover valuable student insights.
Speakers
RW

Rubecca Wilson

Special Education Math Teacher, Republic High School
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Short Creek 3
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

9:30am CDT

White Walls, Bright Lights, and Other Bad Decisions
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Cooper Creek 3
What if there is a way to increase engagement and achievement without a new initiative or costly curriculum? Companies spend millions each year improving employees' workspaces because employee comfort is directly tied to their productivity and the company’s bottom line. Engagement and achievement are our bottom lines, but we rarely examine the impact of students’ working conditions in high schools. This session merges research from psychology and architecture with education and draws on original research with responses from 120 schools. Participants will be able to make tangible, practical changes to high school classrooms that increase student engagement and achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jamie Higgins

Dr. Jamie Higgins

English Teacher and Speech/Debate Coach, Clever R-V School District
Dr. Higgins spent most of her childhood in Pennsylvania before moving back to the Ozarks as a teenager. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in English Secondary Education, her Master of Arts degree in Teaching, and her Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership in Curriculum... Read More →
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Cooper Creek 3
  Breakout Session Offered 1x

9:30am CDT

Proactive Prevention: Leveraging MTSS and Effective Tier I Instruction to Address Reading Challenges
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Room Location TBA
Proactively addressing reading challenges requires a strong foundation in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and high-quality Tier I instruction. This engaging session will explore how structured literacy, evidence-based practices, and early identification can prevent reading difficulties before they escalate. Participants will learn how to strengthen Tier I instruction to meet diverse student needs while leveraging MTSS to provide timely, targeted interventions. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, educators will leave equipped to implement a proactive, prevention-focused approach that improves literacy outcomes for all students. Join us for an interactive session designed to inspire and empower educators!
Speakers
KT

Karyn Tomkinson

National Literacy Director, Adjunct Professor, hand2mind
avatar for Jenn Wright

Jenn Wright

Reading Interventionist, MO SOR FB Admin, North Kansas City
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Room Location TBA
  Breakout Session-Tier 1 Sponsor Showcase: Partnering with Member District

9:30am CDT

GOSPED Roundtable: Networking Opportunity for Educators with an Interest in Special Education
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Hensley Ferry
**Networking Roundtable for Educators & Administrators** Join us for a dynamic networking roundtable where educators and administrators from all grade levels (PreK-12) can come together to share resources, ask and answer questions, and exchange innovative ideas. This collaborative space offers a unique opportunity to connect with peers, learn from each other’s experiences, and build a strong professional network. Whether you're seeking solutions to challenges or looking to inspire new initiatives, this roundtable is your chance to engage in meaningful conversations with fellow educators. Don’t miss out on this chance to grow and learn together!
Speakers
CO

Christina O'Neill

Special Education Teacher, Nixa Public Schools
Friday August 1, 2025 9:30am - 10:15am CDT
Hensley Ferry
  Roundtable Session

10:30am CDT

Keynote with Dr. Katie Martin: Evolving Education--Shifting to a Learner-Centered Paradigm
Friday August 1, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Main Ballroom
To truly prepare learners for a rapidly changing world, education must evolve beyond traditional models and embrace learner-centered mindsets. This shift isn’t just about adopting new tools or digitizing outdated practices—it’s about reimagining the role of educators, empowering students, and aligning learning experiences with real-world needs. In this keynote, we’ll explore the key shifts needed to move away from one-size-fits-all approaches and toward a model rooted in connection, agency, flexibility, and authentic learning. Discover how we can redesign education to serve all learners—and educators— to know who they are, thrive in community and actively engage in the world as their best selves. 
Speakers
avatar for Katie Martin

Katie Martin

CIO, Learner-Centered Collaborative
Dr. Katie Martin is the CIO of Learner-Centered Collaborative, the author of Learner-Centered Innovation, and Evolving Education, and an internationally recognized educator and coach for her approach to educator and student learning. She has worked directly with thousands of teachers... Read More →
Friday August 1, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Main Ballroom
  Keynote
 
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