South Cook Area Wide Institute Day 2026: Full Schedule

1:10pm CST

“Building Every Student … Strengthening Our Schools, Together!"

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

“Building Every Student … Strengthening Our Schools, Together,” is a powerful reminder that our work is not done in isolation—it is a shared responsibility. Together, we nurture the growth of every learner while reinforcing the systems, relationships, and structures that help our schools thrive.
Education is rooted in the work ethic of our mothers and fathers, of education—discipline, respect, integrity, and professionalism. We should embrace a culture of winning, knowing that winning doesn’t happen by accident. Let's creatie a Cultural Ladder of Commitment and Excellence—a step-by-step climb toward greatness for every student, staff member, and school in your district.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
209

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Aspiring Administrator Networking Session

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

159

In this session there will be a structured opportunity to bring questions and/or participate in a problem solution setting with colleagues.

Speakers

Tamiko Fefee

Math Curriculum Specialist, South Cook Intermediate Service Center

My name is Tamiko Fefee, and I am the Math Curriculum Specialist at South Cook Intermediate Service Center 4. In my position, I focus on coaching teachers in Mathematics. Through coordinating and collaborating with administrators and teachers, I support direct instruction by implementing... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
159

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Assistant Principal Networking Session

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

221

In this session there will be a structured opportunity to bring questions and/or participate in a problem solution setting with colleagues.

Speakers

Stephanie M. West

Assistant Principal, South Cook ISC #4/RISE

I am an educator and administrator with over 15 years of teaching and leadership experience. As Assistant Principal at the Regional Institute for Scholastic Excellence, I mentor and evaluate teachers, lead SEL and MTSS work, and drive student growth through data-informed, relationship-centered... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
221

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Barriers to Bridges: Transforming Family-School Partnerships for Student Success

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

207

This session is designed for school and district leaders committed to advancing equity and student achievement through strategic family engagement. It is especially relevant for principals, assistant principals, and district administrators seeking to strengthen partnerships between families and schools. Participants will leave with leadership-driven strategies to nurture inclusion, empowerment, and shared responsibility in their school communities.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
207

Session 4

1:10pm CST

CHAMPS in Action: Continuous Growth for Classroom Success

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

220

CHAMPS in Action: Continuous Growth for Classroom Success
Join us for a focused 50-minute professional development session designed to strengthen classroom management through the CHAMPS framework. This training will provide teachers with practical strategies to implement CHAMPS expectations with clarity and consistency, while also introducing the Kaizen method of continuous, small improvements to keep classroom routines fresh and effective throughout the year. Participants will leave with ready-to-use tools—including a reflection checklist and a Kaizen commitment card—to measure their progress, refine daily practices, and involve students in creating a positive, structured learning environment. This session is perfect for teachers who want to deepen their use of CHAMPS and ensure that it remains a sustainable, impactful part of their classroom culture.

Speakers

Dave Kibelkis

SEL Hub Coach, South Cook - ISC4

With over 36 years in education, David Kibelkis has served as a Teacher, Assistant Principal, Associate Principal, and Principal, including 16 years leading schools as a principal. In recent years, he has embraced what he calls his “rewirement”—continuing his mission as an... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
220

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Collaboration in the Classroom

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

119

This presentation is designed for elementary teachers (general education and special education), paraprofessionals, and related service providers.

It will review the impact of positive collaboration in the classroom, review common barriers to successful collaboration, provide manageable strategies for classroom implementation, and an opportunity to create an enhanced collaboration plan.

The rough draft of the presentation is linked here, though it will be modified and added onto.

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGv-jwlKLY/LSqFoNwJhAlW6aQXcmfW1A/view?utm_content=DAGv-jwlKLY&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h4fc669cad1

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
119

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Connecting Beyond the Classroom: Family & Community Engagement

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

225

This presentation highlights how our school engages parents, families, and the community through a two-part approach: the Parent Leadership Academy and ongoing family workshops. The Parent Leadership Academy empowers parents to grow as advocates and leaders through classroom volunteering, weekly trainings, and community experiences. In addition, monthly workshops on nutrition, mental health, wellness, art, and family nights create meaningful opportunities for connection and learning. Together, these efforts strengthen partnerships, foster parent leadership, and build a supportive, engaged school community.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
225

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Cultivating Connection: Transforming Classrooms Into Communities of Belonging

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

222

Belonging is foundational to meaningful learning. This session invites educators to reimagine classrooms as inclusive communities of care where every learner’s identity is recognized as a source of strength. Grounded in Transformative Social-Emotional Learning (tSEL), trauma-informed practices, and healing-centered engagement, participants will explore the relationship between identity, well-being, and academic success, with a focus on dismantling barriers and affirming student voice.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
222

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Dual Language Education: The Benefits of Biliteracy

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

206

Learn how to move your district closer to a true biliteracy program! Participants in this session will learn about the differences between traditional programming for EL students and dual language programming and its benefits. Research will be presented on the effectiveness of dual language programming. Attendees will be challenged to reflect on their current practice and programming in multilingual education and consider how to best align programming with research on outcomes for multilingual learners.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
206

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Exploratory Learning Activities

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

239

This session will focus on developing classroom activities that challenge students to construct their own knowledge through exploration. The basic format utilizes the techniques the presenter learned from Modeling Instruction and the 5E Instructional Model: Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate. The presentation will be framed through the lens of an engaging activity used in the presenter's classroom.

Speakers

Charlie Homerding

Science Teacher, Reavis High School, District 220

Charlie has been teaching science at Reavis High School in Burbank, IL for the last 8 years. He teaches Chemistry & Physics, and coaches Drama and Speech after school.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
239

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Fact Fluency: From Accuracy to Automaticity

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

139

Participants will learn the research on why fact fluency is so important
for foundational level math and beyond. Participants will explore
different tools, techniques, and memory devices to help students gain
accuracy. The best methods for automaticity such as: strategic use of
flashcards, taped problem sets, and cover-copy-compare will also be
highlighted.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
139

Session 4

1:10pm CST

From Data to Dialogue: Understanding Designations Beyond the Label to Share with All Stakeholders

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

224

This workshop empowers educators and administrators to move beyond the numbers and labels of summative designations. Participants will learn how to interpret designation data, uncover meaningful insights, and communicate findings effectively to all stakeholders. Through practical strategies and collaborative exercises, attendees will gain confidence in translating complex data into clear, actionable dialogue, fostering transparency, understanding, and shared accountability. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to turn summative designations i

Speakers

Lorraine Cruz Hendricks

School Improvement Specialist, ISC4

39+ years of experience in education Former Adult Education Teacher - Private Trade SchoolsFormer Teacher - Social Studies, Bilingual & BiliteracyFormer Elementary, Middle & High School PrincipalNew Leaders for New Schools [Cohort 3]District, Suburban, Charter, AlternativeFormer... Read More →

Dr. Jaime Herron

Assistant Executive Director, South Cook

Dr. Jaime Herron is the Assistant Executive Director at South Cook Intermediate Service Center, where she provides leadership for the Student Advocacy Program and plays a key role in the Statewide Framework for Success, which focuses on continuous improvement for all schools. She... Read More →

Patricia McFall

School Improvement Specialist, ISC4

Patricia McFall serves as a School Improvement Specialist with South Cook Intermediate Service Center #4, partnering with district and school leaders to strengthen systems that improve student outcomes. Through a continuous improvement lens, she supports leadership teams in analyzing data, identifying root causes, strengthening PLC structures, and developing sustainable practices that m... Read More →

Erica Sproles-Brownfield

School Improvement Specialist, South Cook

Erica Sproles-Brownfield brings over 20 years of experience in education, having held leadership roles as a teacher, principal, and district leader across public, private, charter, and turnaround schools. Currently serving as a School Improvement Specialist with South Cook ISC4, Erica... Read More →

Tori Williams

School Improvement Specialist, Intermediate Service Center 4

Tori Williams is an experienced School Specialist with ISC4 (Regional Office of Education #7) and former principal with over 25 years of experience in education. In her current role, she partners with schools and districts to lead strategic planning, facilitate continuous improvement... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
224

Session 4

1:10pm CST

From Groans to Gains: Making Close Reading Click

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

157K Stem Lab

This presentation will offer simple, high-impact strategies that make close reading engaging and meaningful for K–6 students. Participants will try out activities like color-coded annotation, role play reading, and evidence scavenger hunts—practical, low-prep tools that boost comprehension and critical thinking while keeping the joy in reading.

Speakers

Melonee Cobb, Ed.D.

Instructional Coach, South Cook Intermediate Service Center

I hold a doctorate in Educational Leadership and my classroom teaching experience spans through 6-12th grade and higher education. I also have worked as a Reading Specialist and MTSS Facilitator.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
157K Stem Lab

Session 4

1:10pm CST

From Tiers to Trust: A Trauma-Responsive Approach to PBIS and MTSS

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

142

What if your PBIS and MTSS systems could do more than manage behavior and track data? What if they could also heal, empower, and build resilience for every student? This session invites participants to explore how a trauma-responsive lens can enrich these frameworks, ensuring that equity, relational trust, and emotional safety are intentionally embedded at every tier. Through guided discussion, participants will reflect on their own practices, consider practical strategies, and leave with clear and actionable next steps. The session will conclude with a Q&A focused on real-world applications in diverse school contexts.

Speakers

Destiny Kelly

Southland Project Organizer, Partnership for Resilience

Destiny is a developmental psychologist and community-engaged researcher with a passion for advancing trauma-responsive practices in education. She recently completed her Ph.D. in Applied Developmental Psychology and earned her Master's in Psychology from the University of Alabama... Read More →

Crissy Mombela

Director, Programs & Initiatives, Partnership for Resilience

Crissy Mombela, M.Ed., is the Director of Programs and Initiatives for the Partnership for Resilience and serves as Program Lead for the Resilience-Supportive Schools Illinois (RSSI) initiative. With over twenty-five years of experience as a special education teacher and administrator... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
142

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Google Tools New to Education in 2025

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

157 G

Discover the latest Google tools and updates designed to enhance teaching, learning, and school operations in 2025. This session will highlight new features and applications that support classroom instruction, streamline collaboration, and improve productivity for both educators and students. Participants will learn practical strategies for integrating these tools into daily practice, explore real-world examples of impact, and leave with ready-to-use ideas to bring back to their schools and districts.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
157 G

Session 4

1:10pm CST

HOW MONEY WORKS

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

212

A SIMPLE PRESENTATION DISCUSSING HOW TO BECOME PROPERLY PROTECTED, DEBT FREE, AND FINANCIALLY INDEPENDENT.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
212

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Instructional Coach & Interventionist Networking

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

144

In this session there will be a structured opportunity to bring questions and/or participate in a problem solution setting with colleagues.

Speakers

Saranja Hicks

ELA Curriculum Specialist, South Cook ISC4

Saranja Hicks is a highly regarded educator, instructional leader, and advocate for student success with nearly 10 years of experience. Prior to entering education, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and worked... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
144

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Let's Chat! Implementation of AAC in the Classroom

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

203

This interactive training will provide participants with practical knowledge and strategies to support students who may benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Educators will learn how to recognize individuals who could benefit from AAC intervention, explore a variety of evidence-based implementation strategies for classroom use, and develop an understanding of how to select meaningful and functional AAC vocabulary for educational settings. Through real-world examples, guided practice, and collaborative discussion, participants will leave with actionable tools to promote communication, participation, and inclusion for all learners.

Speakers

Anastasia Koning

AT facilitator, Infinitec

Anastasia Koning is a Speech-Language Pathologist with 13 years of experience, including the past 8 years as an Assistive Technology Facilitator. She has worked across diverse settings—public schools, private practice, and skilled nursing facilities—supporting individuals from... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
203

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Literacy is Poppin’: Poppin’ Multisensory Literacy Activities for K-2 Classrooms

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

156

Are you looking for some poppin’ fun ways to increase literacy skills in your classroom? Then this is the workshop for you. Come see some creative, interactive, multisensory literacy activities to get your literacy classroom poppin’. These activities will engage your students and push them to be interactive. In this engaging, hands-on session, participants will explore fun multisensory literacy activities that will just make you pop. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas that will pop up multisensory instruction and learning in your primary classroom.

Speakers

Erika Mora-Postma

Reading Specialist, South Holland School District 150

Hello! My name is Erika Mora-Postma and I am a reading specialist at Greenwood Elementary in School District 150. I love teaching reading.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
156

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Making Words Come Alive: Multisensory Word Study in the Primary Classroom

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

226

Take word study to a whole new level by using a mulitsensory approach to teaching

Speakers

Melissa Santangelo

Instructional Coach, ISC4

I have been an Instructional Coach for ISC4 for the last three years, supporting teachers in refining their practices and driving student achievement. I am dedicated to helping educators differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of all students, ensuring every learner... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
226

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Morning Meetings: Building Community, Boosting Learning

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

113

Discover how a daily Morning Meeting can transform your classroom into a more connected, inclusive and engaged learning environment. In this session, you'll learn practical strategies for implementing Morning Meetings that foster community, support and social emotional growth and set a positive tone for the day. Walk away with ready to use ideas that help strengthen relationships and increase student engagement.

Speakers

Anne Marie McGovern

Instructional Coach, South Cook Intermediate Service Center

Anne Marie has been in elementary education for 30+ years and has taught grades 2,3 and 4. She has been an instructional coach for the past few years and loves supporting teachers and students.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
113

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Multi-Tiered System of Support: Foundational Components and Effective Implementation

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

134

This course delves into the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework, focusing on its foundational components and operational workflow. Educators will develop a strong understanding of these critical elements and acquire effective implementation strategies essential for achieving success and long-term sustainability.

Participants will have the opportunity to evaluate their current MTSS infrastructures and create actionable plans for alignment and implementation. Key areas of focus include:

Stakeholder Involvement: Strategies for engaging all relevant parties.
Defined Roles and Responsibilities: Establishing clear expectations for each team member.
Clear Goal Setting: Developing specific and measurable objectives for MTSS initiatives.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
134

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Music/Band Networking

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

127

In this session there will be a structured opportunity to bring questions and/or participate in a problem solution setting with colleagues.

Speakers

Dr. Lynn Zeder

McKinney-Vento Regional Coordinator, South Cook- ISC

Dr. Lynn Zeder is currently serving as the South Cook McKinney-Vento Regional Coordinator. She is a retired assistant superintendent from Orland 135 and has previously worked as junior high ELA teacher, media specialist, assistant principal, principal, director of curriculum, and... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
127

Session 4

1:10pm CST

National World War Museum Educators

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

233

The National World War II has many opportunities to bring the war into classrooms. They support teachers with curriculum, workshops, and professional development. All will be discussed and how these supports can be used cross curriculum.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
233

Session 4

1:10pm CST

P.E./Health: SEL in Action through Active Learning Strategies

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

237

Giving students the opportunity to be active in your lesson mentally and physically is an essential component of learning. Multiple studies like the research in Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain (John J. Ratey, MD, 2008), supports how physical activity influences learning through improved attention, motivation and alertness while stimulating the brain to process new information better. In this session, you will be participating in classroom tested activities that require simple physical movement to engage the brain in learning. These methods and strategies will get students out of their seats, using their life skills to increase social and emotional learning through the process of active learning.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
237

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Principal Networking Session

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

123

In this session there will be a structured opportunity to bring questions and/or participate in a problem solution setting with colleagues.

Speakers

Kathleen Doyle

Consultant, South Cook ISC

Vanessa Kinder

South Cook ISC

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
123

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Processing Stress and Optimistic Practices

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

213-215

On a daily basis, we are geared to scan for improvements in our own crafts and then turn those negatives into positives. However, this skill as educators takes a toll on our personal lives and production. Participants will practice some daily practices to create space for optimistic practices and turn stress management into stress processing for longevity of life. We need to take care of ourselves, our family, and our students by being mentally, physically, and emotionally healthy.

Use practical strategies for stress processing in high emotional settings and find your breath
Daily practices that turn into habits to improve stress levels and improve optimism
Create a plan that includes being held accountable to make changes

Speakers

Dr. Garrett Podgorski

Director of Program & Support Services, South Cook Intermediate Service Center

Garrett Podgorski is the Director of Program & Support Services for South Cook ISC. He was a teacher for over 12 years and the Curriculum and Instructional Coach for 2 years at the Regional Safe School Program(RSSP) while presenting under the state funding of Foundational Services for balanced... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
213-215

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Relationship Building

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

201

By understanding the different forms of bias and building literacy around them, educators can become more competent in addressing inequities. This helps eliminate stigmas placed on students, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and improving student–teacher relationships. This session also serves as a foundation for part 2, which explores the use of affirmative language.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
201

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Scaffolding UP! Tips and Strategies for Supporting Multilingual Learners.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

234

Attendees will participate in activities designed to build scaffolds to improve EL student performance and increase engagement for ELs. Participants will work together to embed strategies in their instruction.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
234

Session 4

1:10pm CST

School Social Workers & School Counselors Community Building Network

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

231

This session will bring together school counselors and school social workers for a collaborative and engaging experience designed to strengthen community and foster professional connections. Participants will have the opportunity to network with colleagues from neighboring districts and build supportive relationships that enhance their work with staff members, students and families. In addition to networking activities, the session will highlight upcoming professional learning opportunities offered through the South Cook ISC SEL Hub. This session will serve as both an energizing space for community building and a launch point for future learning and collaboration opportunities.

Speakers

Diana Byrd

SEL Hub Coach, South Cook ISC4

I have a background working as an inpatient mental health counselor and after getting my MSW, I worked for 27 years as a school social worker in middle and elementary schools. I then had the opportunity to work as a district SEL Coach for three years prior to retiring from working... Read More →

Patrice Matthews

SEL Hub Coach, South Cook ISC4

I am a native Chicagoan born and raised on the South Side of Chicago. I have been in education for 23 years, focusing on Social Emotional Learning, Counseling Services, Behavior Management, MTSS, Restorative Practices, Dean Services, School Culture, and Community Partnerships. I have... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
231

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Sharing the Magic: Storytelling for Educators

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

118

The "E" in FUEL stands for Energy, and storytelling is one of the best ways to increase your professional energy. Participants will develop their own true, personal well-crafted stories of the reasons they became educators. These stories remind
participants of their "WHY" that they became educators and what gets them out of bed each day to teach children.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
118

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Social Science Networking

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

114

In this session there will be a structured opportunity to bring questions and/or participate in a problem solution setting with colleagues.

Speakers

Meghan Ward

Instructional Coach, ISC 4

Meghan Ward has worked in the field of education for over 18 years. She has taught as a 4th and 5th grade general education teacher and middle school ELA, Math, and Social Studies teacher. Most recently, Meghan has been a Math Consultant and is currently working as an Instructional... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
114

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Talk the Talk: Student Conversations That Actually Work

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

121

Talk the Talk: Student Conversations That Actually Work

Tired of hearing crickets when you ask a question? This session shares easy-to-implement routines that get students talking—authentically and often. Walk away with warm-up prompts, conversation structures, and tips to support multilingual learners and reluctant speakers in any content area.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
121

Session 4

1:10pm CST

The Art of Well-Being: Neurographic Practices for Mental Health in Education

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

202

Discover how neurographic art can be a powerful tool to support both learning and mental well-being in the classroom. This interactive session explores neurographic art—a creative drawing practice designed to reduce stress, foster mindfulness, and strengthen emotional regulation. Participants will learn how to integrate neurographic art into thier classrooms to increase focus and build a supportive, wellness-centered learning environment.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
202

Session 4

1:10pm CST

The Evolving Role of AI in Education

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

236

This session provides administrators with the practical tools and strategies necessary to lead their institutions through the AI revolution. Participants will learn how to initiate and facilitate open dialogue with teachers, students, and parents to address concerns and build a shared understanding of AI’s potential and challenges. We will focus on developing methods for evaluating and implementing AI tools responsibly, ensuring alignment with institutional values and pedagogical goals. This session will equip administrators with a framework for fostering a culture of continuous learning and adapting to AI’s evolving role in education, and will explore strategies for effective stakeholder engagement.

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
236

Session 4

1:10pm CST

The Four Agreements in Action: Building Trust and Culture in Schools

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

228

School culture is built on trust, clarity, and consistent leadership practices. In this interactive session, Narineh Gharashor and Michael Fry introduce The Four Agreements—a framework popularized by Don Miguel Ruiz—as a powerful lens for leadership and collaboration in schools. Drawing from their combined expertise in leadership coaching, healing-centered engagement, and narrative practice, they guide participants through reflective exercises, practical applications, and real-world scenarios that bring the agreements to life in school settings. Educators and leaders will leave with actionable strategies to strengthen relationships, reduce conflict, and foster resilience across their communities.
The Four Agreements explored in this session:

Be impeccable with your word – using communication to build clarity and trust.
Don’t take anything personally – maintaining balance when challenges arise.
Don’t make assumptions – leading with inquiry and transparency.
Always do your best – modeling resilience and growth for staff and students.

Speakers

Michael Fry

Founder/CEO, Vendor:CPS. Storywurx

Michael Fry:Your bio: Michael Fry is a leadership facilitator and transformational practitioner with over three decades of experience guiding individuals and organizations through processes of growth and change. He is the founder of Storywurx, a consulting practice that integrates... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
228

Session 4

1:10pm CST

This Class is L.I.T.: The Strategy to Fire Up Student Engagement

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

216

Ready to transform your classroom and re-energize students? In this interactive session, Khayla Kelley-Morton introduces the L.I.T. Method! This is a practical, research-based framework designed to spark curiosity, strengthen engagement, and build meaningful connections with every learner. Participants will leave with hands-on strategies, real-world examples, and ready-to-use tools to create classrooms that are not just “active” but truly L.I.T. Ideal for teachers, instructional coaches, and administrators looking to make learning exciting, relevant, and impactful.

Speakers

Khayla Kelley-Morton

Founder and Lead Consultant, KTKM Consulting

Khayla Kelley-Morton is an educator, speaker, consultant, and founder of KTKM Consulting, where she partners with schools, districts, and educational organizations to improve student outcomes through engagement-focused instructional practices, educator development, and strategic school... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
216

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Unvarnished: Housing Discrimination in Northern and Western United States

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

116

Teachers will gain extensive knowledge of housing discrimination in the Northern and Western United States. Through this session, teachers will be introduced to four inquiries that build upon one another with various primary resources and the pedagogy on housing discrimination.

Speakers

Dr. Andrea Field

Curator of History, Naper Settlement

Andrea Field is the curator of history at Naper Settlement. She holds a MA in public history and a PhD in public history and American history from Arizona State University. Her areas of focus include the overlapping histories of race and economics in the United States, with an emphasis... Read More →

Jessica Toran

Director of Education, Naper Settlement

Jessica Toran is the Director of Education at Naper Settlement and a certified teacher with over 10 years of experience in formal and informal education. She specializes in developing standards-based programs that engage learners through inquiry and immersion. Previously, she served... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
116

Session 4

1:10pm CST

What is Your Connection Mindset?

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

208

This session invites participants to explore their "connection mindset," inspired by James Kouzes' philosophy that leading effectively into the future requires deep connections in the present and works by Dr.Timothy Elmore and Dr.David Yeager. Educators preparing students for today's workforce face unique challenges, including navigating a volatile workplace and managing a multigenerational workforce comprised of 4-5 generations with diverse skills, backgrounds, and expectations. Addressing these challenges requires intentional reflection on personal expectations and mindset.

Through interactive activities and practical strategies, this session will help participants answer the essential question: What is your connection mindset? Attendees will gain tools to foster meaningful relationships across generational divides and adapt to dynamic professional environments.

Learning Objectives
Participants will:

Understand the concept of a connection mindset and its relevance in leadership.

Identify challenges in multigenerational workforces and volatile workplaces.

Develop actionable strategies to enhance connection and collaboration.

Speakers

John W Hackett

Chief Connecting Officer, Making Connections

John Hackett, Ed. D is a sought-after speaker, facilitator, and writer who provides services to equip and develop leaders with the practical, valuable skills to grow their leadership practice, address their “people puzzles,” and connect with and empower those they serve. Dr. Hackett... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
208

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Why are word problems so challenging?

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

204

This is a question we ponder often as math teachers. During this session, K-5 participants will experience and analyze a few instructional strategies and decide which develop students’ meaning making, modeling, and perseverance (SMP1 and 4)

Speakers

Jennifer Leimberer

Instructional Coach and Professional Development Leader, Metro Chicago Mathematics Initiative at University of Illinois Chicago

Jennifer serves as an instructional coach and professional development leader for a variety of projects at the University of Illinois Chicago, most currently as part of the Metro Chicago Mathematics Initiative. She began her career teaching elementary and middle school students in... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
204

Session 4

1:10pm CST

Writing From the Gutter: Using Comics to Cultivate a Love of Writing

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

223

Attendees at this session will receive an overview of a unique approach to teaching writing using comics as well as receive access to 3 weeks of writing curriculum. Presenters will guide teachers through the writing curriculum while sharing student writing samples & lessons learned. After attending this session, teachers should be able to implement the 3 week course or various lesson in their classrooms almost immediately.

Speakers

Brian P. Hurley, PhD

Instructional Coach, South Cook/ RISE

For the past 19 years, Dr. Brian P. Hurley has taught kindergarteners through graduate students as well as coached pre-service and in-service teachers throughout the greater Chicagoland area as well as internationally. Dr. Hurley is a Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching... Read More →

Carol Pocica

ELA Teacher, South Cook ISC

Ms. Pocica has been teaching students at the elementary and high level across the greater Chicagoland area for more than 3 decades. While her expertise lies in all things ELA, Ms. Pocica's passion is educating our most underserved students in alternative school settings where her... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
223

Session 4

1:10pm CST

You Got Me Twisted: Reclaiming Your Respect in the Classroom

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST

240

As a result of attending this presentation participantas will be able to:
1. Identify common root causes of student disrespect and disruptive behavior through a culturally responsive lens.
2. Apply proactive strategies to set clear boundaries and expectations without damaging relationships.
3. Demonstrate effective de-escalation techniques that maintain authority while preserving student dignity.
4.Practice real-world responses to common classroom disrespect scenarios using role-play and reflective discussion.

Speakers

Dr. Don Parker

Keynote Speaker and Professional Development Provider, DPCP Corporation

Dr. Don Parker is one of the nation’s leading experts on helping educators build trusting relationships with students who have trauma and challenging behavior. A nationally acclaimed keynote speaker, author, and professional development provider, he has inspired over 1 million ... Read More →

Monday November 2, 2026 1:10pm - 2:00pm CST
240

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