SLV Winter Educators Conference: Full Schedule

arrow_back View All Dates

7:45am MST

Breakfast and Check In LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 7:45am - 8:20am MST

Richardson Hall

Friday January 17, 2025 7:45am - 8:20am MST
Richardson Hall

8:30am MST

Welcome Remarks LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am MST

Richardson Hall

Friday January 17, 2025 8:30am - 8:50am MST
Richardson Hall

8:50am MST

Keynote - Write Your Story: Transforming School Culture Together LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 8:50am - 9:50am MST

Richardson Hall

This keynote inspires educators to rediscover their passion for teaching by focusing on the power of connection, purpose, and collaboration. Together, we will explore how each individual contributes to the collective story of our school, shaping a culture where staff and students thrive. Through stories, strategies, and moments of reflection, we’ll reignite the joy in our work, celebrate our shared mission, and leave ready to write the next chapter of our school’s journey—together. Let’s build a culture that reflects the heart and soul of who we are as educators.

Speakers

Nicki Slaugh

Quest Academy Technology Charter, Aspire Ed Consulting

By day, Nicki Slaugh is the principal of a junior high school that’s gaining national attention for its transformation into a personalized, competency-based learning model. By night (and sometimes in-between), she’s an author, keynote speaker, and educational consultant with Aspire... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 8:50am - 9:50am MST
Richardson Hall

10:00am MST

Adobe Express in the Classroom LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

McDaniel 308

Enhance your student's creativity through visual storytelling by utilizing essential creative and digital skills, teaching students how to tell their own creative visual stories. This course focuses on Adobe Express, an industry-standard tool that gives students and educators everything they need to create standout graphics, flyers, presentations, portfolios and videos, allowing for a user-friendly introduction to digital literacy and creative thinking skills. Adobe Express is free for education and is relevant to K-12 students and teachers.

Speakers

Elona Medina

Digital Media Teacher, Alamosa High School

Elona Is a teacher at Alamosa High School where she has taught Business and Technology for 20 years, also having taught at Sangre de Cristo High School for 5 years. The first 20 years were primarily spent teaching business courses which included Entrepreneurship, Personal Finance... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST
McDaniel 308

10:00am MST

Alive and Well, Most of the Time LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

McDaniel 215

Learn the basic tools of meditation and somatic practices to help bring you back to a state of ease in times of stress, anxiety, or over stimulation. Meditation is a lot easier than you think and it practice and benefits are becoming necessary in todays world.

Speakers

Whitney Jones

Founder, Dyan

The founder of Dyan, a meditation app focusing on somatic and embodiment practices to help members reconnect to themselves again.

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST
McDaniel 215

10:00am MST

Building Resilience for Student Success LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

The Trauma-Skilled Schools Model involves a five-step process that begins with establishing foundational trauma knowledge among all school personnel. This presentation will introduce participants to the 5 resiliency factors as well as briefly address trauma informed care and provide classroom strategies to support teachers in their craft. All staff members are guided to understand and master relational and instructional skills that minimize the interference of trauma with appropriate behavior and learning.

Speakers

Danielle Gibbs

Tracy Simon

Student Accommodations Coordinator, Monte Vista School District

Tracy and Danielle are dedicated educators at the Byron Syring DELTA Center, an Alternative Education Campus, in Monte Vista, CO, where they bring their expertise in trauma-informed teaching to support students in non-traditional settings. Recently certified as Trauma-Skilled with... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

10:00am MST

Migrant Education Program Binational Initiative: K-6 Online Resources for Colorado Teachers Using the Mexican SEP Textbooks LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

McDaniel 306

As part of the Binational Initiative, I am developing training and online resources for the Mexican Secretaría de Educación Pública textbooks that the Migrant Education Program (MEP) receives from Mexico each year. These are free textbooks for grades K-6 that are used in every public school in Mexico. They are great resources for our bilingual or monolingual Spanish-speaking students. These online resources are for Colorado teachers to use Mexican SEP textbooks. When teachers request SEP books, MEP wants them to have resources such as: Standards crosswalk- how do SEP books align with Colorado state standards, background information on SEP books and Binational program, and how to use SEP books in the classroom and at home for bilingual learners.

Speakers

Laura Malouff

3rd Grade Teacher, Alamosa School District

Elisamaria Heredia

3-5 EL Teacher and K-12 EL Coordinator, ASD

I am Elisamaria Heredia and have 24 years of experience working at Alamosa School District in the English Language Development department (ELD). I have also worked for the Migrant Education Program in different areas such as teaching during Summer School, planning for the EL Family... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST
McDaniel 306

10:00am MST

Place Trust and Teamwork at the Center of the Home-School Relationship LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

McDaniel 317

National Center for Families Learning, Colorado Statewide Parent Coalition, Black Parent Network, and Colorado Education Initiative are partnering to provide a professional learning series to equip school staff with the mindsets, skills, and strategies necessary to practice equitable and effective family partnership in their school communities. SFEC seeks to build strategies anchored in the unique cultural and community wisdom in the state of Colorado.

Speakers

Esther Valdez

CEI

Esther Valdez is an Assistant Director of Implementation and Partnership supporting CEI’s school district partners and their communities in executing school transformation and strategic school improvement. Esther has 36 years of experience in education, proudly serving as a principal... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST
McDaniel 317

10:00am MST

Power of Pause: Reflective Practices for Growth LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

McDaniel 315

In this workshop, participants will explore diverse reflection strategies aimed at enhancing both professional capacity and mental wellness. You'll engage in hands-on activities that foster self-awareness and critical thinking, helping you integrate reflection into your daily practice.
By analyzing classroom experiences and outcomes, you will develop the skills to identify patterns that inform your decision-making. This ability to critically assess your experiences will lead to more effective problem-solving strategies in your work.
Join us to cultivate a reflective mindset that supports your growth as a professional, enhances your well-being, and ultimately improves your impact in the classroom and beyond.

Speakers

Kathryn Trujillo

Kristen Love

Jordan Cobb

Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant, Early Childhood Council - San Luis Valley

I am an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children and families. With a passion for collaboration, I work closely with educators to create nurturing environments that support young learners. I found my home in the San Luis Valley, and... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST
McDaniel 315

10:00am MST

Shifting the Paradigm: A search for ways to meet the academic needs of every student LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

McDaniel 302

Join me as I share my journey of transitioning from a traditional classroom to a modern one, highlighting the challenges and successes along the way, as well as the significant impact this transition has had on student learning. Together, let's explore how the Modern Classrooms Project can inspire a paradigm shift in education.

Speakers

Coleen Christensen

Math Teacher, Sierra Grande School District

Coleen Christensen is a dedicated math teacher with 14 years of experience teaching High School Mathematics. She began her journey as an alternative license teacher. She's all about simplifying math, making it practical and enjoyable for her students. Her unique path as an alternative... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST
McDaniel 302

10:00am MST

Tapping the Brakes on Post-Covid Anxiety LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

McDaniel 208

Educators have always dealt with stressful situations, but recent years have seen a significant uptick in student trauma and parent distress. Add that to our other stressors like relationship issues and money problems and anxiety can spike in a heartbeat. It’s normal! Anxiety may impact men and women differently, and while this presentation will pay special attention to what works for men, we'll all come away with tried-and-true (and a few outside-the-box) strategies for tapping the brakes when anxiety rises.

Speakers

Peggy Haslar

Counselor, Monte Vista School District

Teachers and coaches run in my family. Because education these days is both rewarding and stressful, I'm interested in helping people find strategies tailored to their specific circumstances and personalities. I've been a counselor in the Monte Vista School District for over 20 years... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST
McDaniel 208

10:00am MST

The SLV BOCES Foundations program for students with emotional disabilities, from identification for services to transition back to school LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

McDaniel 214

Attend this session to learn how a child qualifies for services provided by the San Luis Valley BOCES Foundations program, how services begin, and how transition back into a general education setting takes place when appropriate.

Speakers

Stacey Holland

Associate Professor, SLV BOCES

Stacey Holland is the Director of Special Education for the San Luis Valley BOCES. She also has past experience operating a day treatment program for students with emotional disabilities.

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST
McDaniel 214

10:00am MST

Using Math Interventions to Optimize Learning in Tier 1 Instruction - Elementary focus LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST

McDaniel 119

The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) hosts a wide selection of math intervention toolkits on their website, but how can these toolkits be used with students? And what does that have to do with effective math teaching practices? This interactive exploration will use examples of the free CDE resources for participants to experience. This session will focus on elementary level math examples, the other will focus on secondary examples

Speakers

Joe Brenkert

Math Content Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

After almost 20 years in Colorado classrooms, Joe joined the Colorado Department of Education last year to help implement the "Improving Math Outcomes" bill.

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am MST
McDaniel 119

10:00am MST

5 Keys to Raising Resilient Kids & Teens LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 217

Empower the youth in your life with this transformative workshop, 5 Keys to Resilience: P.O.W.E.R.
Designed specifically for parents and educators, this engaging program provides essential tools to help children and teens navigate challenges and build resilience through five core principles: Present, Original, Whole, Energized, and Resilient.
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to support young people as they confront common issues like anxiety, excessive worrying, and feelings of disconnection. We’ll share practical techniques to help them manage stress, break negative thought patterns, and reconnect with their true selves.
Through interactive activities such as character design and mental road trips, participants will discover how to identify and challenge harmful thinking errors, promote self-compassion, and uncover their passions. By focusing on strengths and cultivating resilience, you’ll be equipped to help young people face obstacles with renewed confidence and clarity.
Join me to gain valuable insights and actionable strategies that will empower the youth in your care. Together, let’s foster a culture of resilience and growth!

Speakers

Dana MacFarlane

Digital Media Teacher, Mindful Connections Counseling LLC

Hi! My name is Dana MacFarlane. I am a passionate, mental health advocate and Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate with 12+ years experience providing mental health services for educational communities, families and youth.

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 217

10:00am MST

A Spotlight on Response to Intervention within Multi-Tiered System of Supports LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 204

This session will explore Response to Intervention (RtI) as an innovation within the Colorado Multi-Tiered System of Supports (COMTSS) framework. This session will explore how the key features of RtI and the components of COMTSS work together to improve student outcomes. Come and learn how tiered systems can support students with disabilities and gifted students.

Speakers

Milcah Hawk

Founder, Colorado Department of Education - Office of Learning Supports Website: https://www.cde.state.co.us/mtss

Milcah Hawk, Ed.S., NCSP is a COMTSS Specialist for the Office of Learning Supports. Milcah received her educational specialist degree (Ed.S) in School Psychology from the University of Colorado at Denver. Over the last 25 years, Milcah has been passionate about building Trauma-Responsive... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 204

10:00am MST

Bringing the Protective Factors Framework to Life in Your Work LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 212

The Strengthening Families approach and protective factors framework is a research-informed, strengths-based approach that prevents child abuse and neglect by focusing on the well-being of all families and helping families identify and build on their own protective factors. The Strengthening Families™ Protective Factor Framework includes the following five protective factors: Parental Resilience Social Connections Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development Concrete Support in Times of Need Social and Emotional Competence of Children Each protective factor is important and together they build strong and stable families.

Speakers

Taray Bay

Adelante Family Resource Center Director, La Puente Home Inc.

Tara Bay has been the director of the Adelante Family Resource Center Since 2015. Prior to her work at Adelante, Tara was a provider at SLV Behavioral Health. Tara is a San Luis Valley Native and serving community members of the San Luis Valley is her passion. Tara is dedicated to... Read More →

Judy McNeilsmith

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 212

10:00am MST

From Efficiency to Empowerment: AI Strategies for Student Success LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST

SUB Banquet

In this session for intermediate AI users, explore how AI tools can shift from teacher-only efficiency tools to powerful resources for student achievement. We’ll dive into specific strategies that empower students to use AI for personalized learning, goal-setting, and skill mastery. Through practical examples and interactive discussions, you’ll gain actionable insights for integrating AI into both teacher- and student-led learning. ***Teachers need to bring a charged device for this session.***

Speakers

Jennifer Ingram

Math & STEM Curriculum Coordinator, Deer Creek Schools

Jennifer serves as a district Math & STEM Curriculum Coordinator for Deer Creek Schools in Edmond, OK. She taught middle school math and robotics before transitioning to an instructional technology coach and curriculum specialist.

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST
SUB Banquet

10:00am MST

Purposeful Engagement: Strategies to Empower Learners LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 201

Engaging students is just the beginning—what happens next is where the magic lies. In this session, we’ll explore how to design purposeful, relevant lessons that shift the focus from compliance to true engagement, empowering students to take ownership of their learning. Learn how to ensure students understand what they’re learning, why it matters, and how it connects to real-world applications. Discover strategies to hook your learners, give every student a voice, personalize learning in real time, and provide actionable, impactful feedback. You'll also gain tools to build a classroom culture rooted in trust, curiosity, and growth. Walk away with practical techniques to transform engagement into measurable learning outcomes that inspire and empower every student to thrive.

Speakers

Nicki Slaugh

Quest Academy Technology Charter, Aspire Ed Consulting

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 201

10:00am MST

Recharge & Revitalize: The Essential Self-Care Toolkit for Educators! LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 216

This workshop will equip educators with tools and strategies for recognizing and managing stress through self-care practices, helping to maintain personal well-being and improve effectiveness in the classroom.

Speakers

Phyllis Vigil

1st Grade Teacher, Sierra Grande School District R-30

Phyllis Vigil, a proud San Luis Valley native, has dedicated her career to nurturing young minds. She earned her bachelor's and Master of Arts degrees from Adams State University. With 24 years in education, she has spent the past 22 years as a cornerstone of the Sierra Grande School... Read More →

Recharge & Revitalize The Essential Self Care Toolkit For Educators pptx

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 216

10:00am MST

Strength Based Learning and the Fitts Posner Model LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 206

The presentation aims to introduce teachers and administration to the benefits of recognizing the strengths of individuals in designing content to encourage movement skills and acquisition. Engagement strategies and success stories will be highlighted. Tactics, including teaching for transfer, and the Fitts-Posner model of movement acquisition will be highlighted.

Speakers

Jack Sciacca

Certified Teacher and Archery Coach, Moffat Schools

Jack Sciacca works at Moffat Schools where he introduces 2nd through 12th-grade students to archery, teaches hunter education, and coaches the competitive archery team. Mr. Sciacca is a certified Basic Archery Instructor Trainer for the National Archery in the Schools Program. He... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 206

10:00am MST

TBD Science Session? LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 314

Limited to 10 Educators (5th - 9th grade)

Lead your students through time with CU Museum of Natural History to explore the geological time scale in Colorado. Students will take on the role of a climate detective to uncover real fossil evidence through inquiry. This training will guide you through the provided kit materials and unit guide. This is a 4 hour training session. Please sign up for both sessions.

Speakers

Kristi Mathiesen

Science Teacher, Monte Vista Middle School

Kristi Mathiesen, who started teaching in 2017, is presently teaching 6th grade Science and Science Research at Monte Vista Middle School in Monte Vista. She graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor of Science in Education and from CSU Global with a Master of Science... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 314

10:00am MST

“Why They do That—a Glimpse into the World of Cutting Behaviors and other Forms of Self-Harm” LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 301

Speakers

Thomas Hays

Colorado Multi-Tiered System of Supports Regional Specialist, Alamosa High School

Tom grew up on the beaches of Long Island, worked as a lifeguard for 8 summers, played a little baseball at East Carolina University, then found his way to Colorado in 1973, where he fell in love, first with Colorado, then with his wife of almost 49 years now. Tom worked 36 years... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 10:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 301

11:00am MST

Empowering Student Leaders: Career Readiness and Leadership Development LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:00am MST

What if every student could envision themselves thriving in a career while building the leadership skills to succeed? In this session, we’ll explore how linking career exploration with leadership development helps students take charge of their futures. Using research and real-world strategies, you’ll learn how to introduce students to diverse, in-demand careers while equipping them with the confidence, critical thinking, and teamwork skills essential for navigating a rapidly changing workforce. Attendees will leave with actionable tools and innovative technologies to motivate academic success, foster leadership, and empower students to lead their own journeys toward fulfilling futures.

Speakers

Andy Bennetts

President, Interactive Learning

Andy Bennetts is a seasoned educator and thought leader in the field of educational technology with a passion for empowering K-12 education. Andy’s career spans over two decades, serving as a teacher and administrator. He holds a BA in Elementary Education and an MA in Education... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:00am MST

11:00am MST

A New Free Resource for Teaching Entrepreneurship Skills to Students with Special Needs LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 304

For special education teachers

Come learn about a new resource, through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, to teach Entrepreneurship Skills to students with special needs!

Speakers

Kirk Banghart

Chief Faciliator, Colorado Rural Education Collaborative, Generation Schools Network

Kirk serves as the Vice President and Chief Facilitator of the Colorado Rural Education Collaborative (CREC) and brings a wealth of experience to GSN through his extensive background in rural education. Over 20 years in rural education, Kirk served as a certified superintendent, assistant... Read More →

Jeff Fuller

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 304

11:00am MST

Alive and Well, Most of the Time LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 215

Speakers

Whitney Jones

Founder, Dyan

The founder of Dyan, a meditation app focusing on somatic and embodiment practices to help members reconnect to themselves again.

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 215

11:00am MST

Alternatives to Suspension & Law Enforcement Involvement for FIRST-TIME Vaping and Lower-Level Infractions at School LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 101

Rethinking Substances and the Victim-Offender Reconciliation are programs offered through Center for Restorative Programs. Come learn about these two processes and see how they can be used in your school as prevention, intervention, and as alternatives to suspension or expulsion for lower level infractions involving nicotine, marijuana, vaping, alcohol, or even fighting and detrimental behavior. You will learn about the efficacy of these programs and their outcomes. ReThinking Substances is an evidence-based, voluntary Restorative Justice program designed for youth and young adults with a first-time ticket for underage possession of alcohol, marijuana, or tobacco. ReThinking Substances teaches accountability and impact awareness, and includes a personalized action plan for each participant to address the impact their decisions have on self, family, and community. Victim-Offender Dialogue is a facilitated process where participants meet face-to-face to address the personal nature of the offense, take responsibility for their actions, and repair harm. These mediations revolve around issues such as simple assault, harassment, theft, property crimes, and other similar offenses. Services are free and voluntary for victims. Victims are not contacted until an intake process has established the ability of the offender* to be available, honest, and accountable for dialogue regarding the incident.

Speakers

Paula Medina

Principal, Center for Restorative Programs

As Program Manager since 1998, Paula provides victim offender mediation, case management, family decision making conferences, small claims court mediation, and volunteer coordination for the program. She is a Latina and Valley native, intimately familiar with the area’s varied cultural... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 101

11:00am MST

Building Resilience for Student Success LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

Speakers

Danielle Gibbs

Tracy Simon

Student Accommodations Coordinator, Monte Vista School District

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

11:00am MST

CTE Programs and the Colorado Multi-Tiered System of Supports LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 212

With more students needing support at the secondary level than ever before, CTE programs have the resources to build positive experiences for the students who need it the most. Find out how one school leverages Perkins-funded programs to make sure every student has a relevant high school experience.

Speakers

Edwin Mondragon

Agriculture Education Teacher/ FFA Advisor, Monte Vista School District

I have worked 14 years in Special Education and 5 years in Agriculture Education. I have coached and taught around the SLV and want to pass down all that has been handed to me over the years.

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 212

11:00am MST

Family Engagement! Opportunities and Challenges LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 117

In this session, educators will review the CDE Family, School and Community Partnerships rubric to assess their family engagement practice. The rubric reflections will help educators identify opportunities to strengthen relationships and communication with families and to consider a persistent challenge they face engaging families. Using a problem of practice discussion protocol, educators will then collaborate to think about the root causes of their challenge and potential solutions for addressing it. Through the protocol, educators will tap into one another's expertise and identify concrete actions they can to resolve their challenge and engage all families as academic partners.

Speakers

Kate Garvin

Sr. Project Director, CO Statewide Family Engagement Center, Keystone Policy Center

Justin Stephens

Founding Partner, Coaction Collective Keystone Policy Center

Justin Stephens is a teacher at heart and understands our education system from many perspectives. His life experience – from withdrawing from high school at 17 to serving as a foster parent to being a classroom teacher – has helped shape his understanding of families' critical... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 117

11:00am MST

Place Trust and Teamwork at the Center of the Home-School Relationship LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 317

Speakers

Esther Valdez

CEI

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 317

11:00am MST

Power of Pause: Reflective Practices for Growth LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 315

Speakers

Kathryn Trujillo

Kristen Love

Jordan Cobb

Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant, Early Childhood Council - San Luis Valley

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 315

11:00am MST

Strength Based Learning and the Fitts Posner Model LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 206

Speakers

Jack Sciacca

Certified Teacher and Archery Coach, Moffat Schools

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 206

11:00am MST

Student Engagement Activities for Any Subject LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 214

Educators will explore practical strategies to help students make meaningful connections between what they are learning and their prior knowledge, real-world experiences, and cross-curricular themes. Participants will discover how fostering these connections enhances student engagement, deepens understanding, and strengthens literacy skills across content areas. By the end of the session, participants will leave with actionable tools to enhance classroom practices, improve literacy outcomes, and inspire students to see the relevance of their learning in new and meaningful ways. The strategies and resources are most aligned to secondary teachers, but are easily adaptable for elementary teachers as well.

Speakers

Drew Sandlin

Jeremy Dorsey

Social Studies Teacher, Alamosa School District

Jeremy Dorsey is a social studies teacher, and former intelligence analyst for the United States Marine Corps. He is dedicated to improving learners in personal and professional avenues. Utilizing new strategies that help improve literacy and high level source analysis. Having recently... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 214

11:00am MST

Taking Thinking to the Next Level LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

SUB 309

Cognitively complex tasks challenge students to think deeply and apply knowledge in innovative ways. In this session, we’ll explore what these tasks look like, how to recognize their depth of rigor, and how to elevate classroom activities to make them more complex. Through analysis and collaboration, you’ll gain tools to design meaningful learning experiences that push your students to higher levels of thinking and engagement.

Speakers

Adrienne Turner

English Language Arts Coordinator, Deer Creek Public Schools

Adrienne Turner has 15 years of experience as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, instructional technology coach, and new teacher coordinator. She is currently the English language arts coordinator for grades PreK–12 at Deer Creek Schools in Edmond, Oklahoma. Adrienne works... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
SUB 309

11:00am MST

Tapping the Brakes on Post-Covid Anxiety LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 208

Speakers

Peggy Haslar

Counselor, Monte Vista School District

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 208

11:00am MST

Unlocking Potential: Effective and practical Stategies for Student Engagment LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 243

In this presentation, participants will explore a range of effective and practical strategies designed to enhance student engagement and drive meaningful learning experiences. They will examine innovative approaches that foster students’ active participation, collaboration, and motivation in the classroom. From interactive learning activities to the integration of technology and personalized instruction, participants will investigate practical techniques backed by research to discover how to create a vibrant classroom environment that empowers students to take ownership of their learning and unlock their full potential.

Speakers

Kieran Nduagbo

Associate Professor, Adams State University

Dr. Kieran Nduagbo holds a Bachelors of Science in Special Education from Loyola University, Chicago, IL and a Masters of Art in Administration from Governors State, University Park, IL. She earned her doctorate in Higher Education from Seton Hall University South Orange, New Jersey.Dr... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 243

11:00am MST

Using Science Probes in the Elementary Classroom to support writing and science understanding LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST

McDaniel 281

This will be an introduction into Page Keeley's Scince Probes. This formative assessment tool can be used in the elementary classroom to support writing and science. The probes are designed to uncover the ideas students bring to their science learning. The teachers will have time to find or develop a probe they can use in their next science unit.

Speakers

Michele Mann

Math Content Specialist, Adams State University

Michele Mann received her bachelor’s degree from Furman University in biology with science teacher licensure. She completed a Master of Arts degree in Biology (with an emphasis in education) from the University of South Florida. Michele earned her Ph.D. in STEM Education from the... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am MST
McDaniel 281

12:00pm MST

Lunch and Networking LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 12:00pm - 12:50pm MST

Richardson Hall

Friday January 17, 2025 12:00pm - 12:50pm MST
Richardson Hall

1:00pm MST

A New Free Resource for Teaching Entrepreneurship Skills to Students with Special Needs LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

McDaniel 304

For special education teachers

Come learn about a new resource, through the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, to teach Entrepreneurship Skills to students with special needs!

Speakers

Jeff Fuller

Kirk Banghart

Chief Faciliator, Colorado Rural Education Collaborative, Generation Schools Network

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
McDaniel 304

1:00pm MST

Best Practices for Alternative Schools - A Roundtable Discussion LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

McDaniel 308

Join staff from Monte Vista School District’s alternative school, the Byron Syring DELTA Center, for a round table discussion of best practices and challenges in alternative education. Topics will include attendance strategies, individualizing instruction, student check-ins, motivational strategies, structured class offerings, curriculum modifications, working with community partners, expanding elective offerings, and other relevant topics.

Staff from area alternative schools and principals of traditional schools wanting to learn more about alternative schools will find this networking session helpful.

Speakers

Dirk Oden

Byron Syring DELTA Center Staff

The Byron Syring DELTA Center was established in 1973 as the first alternative school in the SLV and has been serving nontraditional, high risk students for over fifty years. It is Colorado's only certified Trauma Skills School. The DELTA Center staff come from a variety of backgrounds... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
McDaniel 308

1:00pm MST

Creative Collaboration: Exploring TASK Parties Across Curriculum LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

McDaniel 243

In this hands-on workshop, teachers will experience a TASK party, an open-ended, collaborative art activity inspired by artist Oliver Herring. TASK parties engage students in creativity and problem-solving by allowing them to choose prompts from a deck of TASK cards, each with simple, interpretive instructions like "Create a wearable sculpture" or "Build a bridge." Educators will learn how to guide students through this process, giving them the freedom to interpret tasks individually or in groups, encouraging exploration and self-expression.

This workshop will explore how TASK parties align with the Teaching for Artistic Behavior (TAB) philosophy and meet National Core Arts Standards through experimentation, presentation, interpretation, and personal connections to art. Teachers will also learn how TASK parties can be adaptable to any grade and subject: prompts like “Design a habitat for an animal” or “Model a simple machine” make this activity effective for STEAM, social studies, language arts, and more, fostering interdisciplinary connections.

Educators will leave with strategies to implement TASK parties, ideas for creating age-appropriate prompts, and insights into building a playful, student-centered environment. TASK parties are a dynamic addition to any curriculum, enhancing student collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving across disciplines and grade levels.

Speakers

Maria Fleming

PreK-12 Art Teacher/Innovation Lab Coordinator, Sierra Grande School

As a Colorado native and experienced PreK-12 Art Teacher at Sierra Grande School District R-30, I am dedicated to fostering creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration among students of all ages and backgrounds. Born in Craig and having lived in Alamosa and Denver, I graduated... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
McDaniel 243

1:00pm MST

Differentiation for Gifted and/or ELL LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

McDaniel 208

Interventions and scaffolds to be used in the classroom for both advanced and language learner students.

Speakers

Jodi Rutherford

Julia Lumsargis

Gifted Education Coordinator and Enrichment Interventionist, Monte Vista School District

Julia Lumsargis is an enrichment interventionist and gifted education (GTED) coordinator in Monte Vista School District. Ms Lumsargis has a background in bilingual education and biochementry.

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
McDaniel 208

1:00pm MST

Empowering Student Leaders: Career Readiness and Leadership Development LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

Speakers

Andy Bennetts

President, Interactive Learning

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

1:00pm MST

Family Engagement! Opportunities and Challenges LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

McDaniel 117

Speakers

Kate Garvin

Sr. Project Director, CO Statewide Family Engagement Center, Keystone Policy Center

Justin Stephens

Founding Partner, Coaction Collective Keystone Policy Center

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
McDaniel 117

1:00pm MST

Improve Team Collaboration and Enhance Resource Accessibility Utilizing Padlet LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

McDaniel 310

Attendees will learn how to utilize Padlet to organize and simplify sharing resources amongst your team. Learn how a Padlet can help streamline data meetings. You will leave with access to free literacy resources for the elementary classroom.

Speakers

Toni Kayser-Boyd

Sherri Crowder

K-5 Literacy Coach, Moffat School District

Sherri graduated from Adams State University with a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education and a Masters Degree in Special Education and Literacy, Language and Culture. She is a K-5 Literacy Coach in Moffat. She is currently in her 23rd year in education in the San Luis Valley... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
McDaniel 310

1:00pm MST

Making the Most of Measures of Student Learning/Outcomes (MSLs/MSOs) to support Educator Evaluations LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

McDaniel 215

Measures of student learning and outcomes (MSLs/MSOs) are designed to capture the connection between an educator's practice and results for their students. This session will guide participants through a recommended process districts/BOCES leaders can use in the creation of MSLs/MSOs.

Speakers

Curtis Garcia

Regional Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

Dr. Curtis Garcia is a San Luis Valley native who earned his bachelor’s degree from Yale University, then returned home to work as an educator. He holds a Master of Arts degree in educational leadership from Adams State and a Ph.D. in educational leadership research and policy from... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
McDaniel 215

1:00pm MST

Smart Tools, Strong Outcomes: Leveraging AI Tools for Diverse Learners LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

SUB Banquet

For teachers working with ELL and special education students, AI can be a game-changer. We’ll focus on AI-driven strategies for differentiating instruction, personalizing learning, and overcoming common barriers faced by students with diverse learning needs. Attendees will discover how to use AI tools to create tailored lesson plans, scaffold content, and generate resources that reinforce language development and support IEP goals. By the end, teachers will be equipped to use AI effectively to improve student outcomes across diverse learner populations. ***Teachers need to bring a charged device for this session.***

Speakers

Jennifer Ingram

Math & STEM Curriculum Coordinator, Deer Creek Schools

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
SUB Banquet

1:00pm MST

The Science of Well-Being LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

SUB 309

What truly makes us happy? In this session, inspired by Laurie Santos’s The Science of Well-Being, we’ll explore research-based strategies for improving well-being and dispelling common myths about happiness. Participants will reflect on their own happiness habits and discover simple, science-backed ways to boost their personal and professional well-being. Leave with practical tools to build a happier, more fulfilling life—both inside and outside the classroom!

Speakers

Adrienne Turner

English Language Arts Coordinator, Deer Creek Public Schools

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
SUB 309

1:00pm MST

The SLV BOCES Special Education Identification Process made understandable for all types of educators LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

McDaniel 214

Attend this session to learn about the journey a child in the San Luis Valley takes from Child Find or school identification to the development of an IEP and provision of special education services as required through Individuals with Disabilities in Education (IDEA) regulations.

Speakers

Sarah Gears

School Psychologist, SLV BOCES

David Atencio

Dr., SLV BOCES

David is a Special Education Coordinator with BOCES and serves as Director of Program Identification

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
McDaniel 214

1:00pm MST

Using Math Intervention Toolkits in Secondary Math Classes LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST

McDaniel 119

The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) hosts a wide selection of math intervention toolkits on their website, but how can these toolkits be used with students? And what does that have to do with effective math teaching practices? This interactive exploration will use examples of the free CDE resources for participants to experience. This session will focus on secondary level math examples, the other math intervention session will focus on elementary examples.

Speakers

Joe Brenkert

Math Content Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

After almost 20 years in Colorado classrooms, Joe joined the Colorado Department of Education last year to help implement the "Improving Math Outcomes" bill.

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm MST
McDaniel 119

1:00pm MST

5 Keys to Raising Resilient Kids & Teens LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 217

Speakers

Dana MacFarlane

Digital Media Teacher, Mindful Connections Counseling LLC

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 217

1:00pm MST

A Spotlight on Response to Intervention within Multi-Tiered System of Supports LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 204

Speakers

Milcah Hawk

Founder, Colorado Department of Education - Office of Learning Supports Website: https://www.cde.state.co.us/mtss

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 204

1:00pm MST

Bringing the Protective Factors Framework to Life in Your Work LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 212

Speakers

Taray Bay

Adelante Family Resource Center Director, La Puente Home Inc.

Judy McNeilsmith

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 212

1:00pm MST

Recharge & Revitalize: The Essential Self-Care Toolkit for Educators! LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 216

Speakers

Phyllis Vigil

1st Grade Teacher, Sierra Grande School District R-30

Recharge & Revitalize The Essential Self Care Toolkit For Educators pptx

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 216

1:00pm MST

TBD Science Session? LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 314

Speakers

Kristi Mathiesen

Science Teacher, Monte Vista Middle School

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 314

1:00pm MST

Using Manipulatives to Teach Biotechnology LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 281

In this presentation we will investigate how to use different manipulatives to teach biotechnology concepts and techniques. Those that attend will have the opportunity to borrow these manipulatives to use in their classrooms.

Speakers

Michele Mann

Math Content Specialist, Adams State University

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 281

1:00pm MST

“Why They do That—a Glimpse into the World of Cutting Behaviors and other Forms of Self-Harm” LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 301

Speakers

Thomas Hays

Colorado Multi-Tiered System of Supports Regional Specialist, Alamosa High School

Friday January 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 301

2:00pm MST

Building a Thriving School Community LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 308

This presentation dives into how we made our school a better place by boosting attendance, getting students more engaged, and improving the overall school culture while bringing parents into the mix. We'll discuss ideas to encourage students to attend school and participate in activities. A strong school culture can help kids do their best in their studies and socially. Plus, we'll highlight how important it is for parents to be involved and share practical tips to enhance that connection between home and school. Together, let’s create a supportive community where every student can shine!

Speakers

Dylan Schouweiler

Kathy Garcia

Principal, Moffat PK-12, Moffat Consolidated School District #2

I am beginning my fourth year as the principal at Moffat PK-12 schools. I have 14 years of classroom teaching experience.

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 308

2:00pm MST

Creative Collaboration: Exploring TASK Parties Across Curriculum LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 243

Speakers

Maria Fleming

PreK-12 Art Teacher/Innovation Lab Coordinator, Sierra Grande School

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 243

2:00pm MST

Diversifying Your Classroom Library with Non-Colonial Perspectives LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

In this presentation I will:Discuss the benefits of diversifying our classroom libraries and share ideas and resources on how to seek funds for purchasing diverse books (grants and parent wish lists), and/or how to receive free diverse books. Share how I used diverse books in my classroom, discuss the social studies house bill 19-1192 and review the law and what it covers. I will address the importance of this bill and how it can support teachers as they embark on reading books that may be seen as controversial with parents and other teachers or administrators; Participants will learn how to select diverse books for their classroom. Gain access to book lists, diverse book stores, and resources for choosing books. Discuss what the concept of mirror and windows and imply and the importance of being a bridge and ally for parents and children to gain access to these reading materials.

Speakers

Acacia Nadeau-Lara

Program Coordinator/Advisor, Adams State University School of Education

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Northern Colorado, and a Master of Arts in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education from Adams State University. I have experience teaching Kindergarten through 5th grade and spent most of my teaching career in Longmont... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

2:00pm MST

Educator Evaluation: Making Measures of Student Learning (MSLs) work for you

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 215

This session is designed for school principals or educators interested in deepening their knowedege about measures of student learning/outcomes (MSLs/MSOs) within the Colorado model evaluation system. Emphasis will be placed on how to maximize data from local assessments to establish meaningful student learning/growth targets and success criteria.

Speakers

Curtis Garcia

Regional Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 215

2:00pm MST

Family Engagement! Opportunities and Challenges LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 117

Speakers

Kate Garvin

Sr. Project Director, CO Statewide Family Engagement Center, Keystone Policy Center

Justin Stephens

Founding Partner, Coaction Collective Keystone Policy Center

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 117

2:00pm MST

Improve Team Collaboration and Enhance Resource Accessibility Utilizing Padlet LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 310

Speakers

Toni Kayser-Boyd

Sherri Crowder

K-5 Literacy Coach, Moffat School District

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 310

2:00pm MST

Psychology and Science Backed Study Skills for Students LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 214

Cognitive science has revealed the hidden secrets of what really works for studying. This workshop is based on the findings of psychologists who are experts in the science of study habits, and outlines clear steps students can use throughout their high school and college careers to plan, monitor, and evaluate their learning. This information is applicable to all grade levels, especially 5th - 12th.

Speakers

Jeremy Dorsey

Social Studies Teacher, Alamosa School District

Sarah Ramirez

Social Studies Teacher, Alamosa School District

Sarah Ramirez is a dedicated social studies teacher with over 20 years of experience teaching middle and high school students. She is passionate about empowering learners to succeed in high school and beyond and brings knowledge and practical strategies to the classroom. Having recently... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 214

2:00pm MST

Smart Tools, Strong Outcomes: Leveraging AI Tools for Diverse Learners LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

SUB Banquet

Speakers

Jennifer Ingram

Math & STEM Curriculum Coordinator, Deer Creek Schools

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST
SUB Banquet

2:00pm MST

Strength Based Learning and the Fitts Posner Model LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST

McDaniel 206

Speakers

Jack Sciacca

Certified Teacher and Archery Coach, Moffat Schools

Friday January 17, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm MST
McDaniel 206

3:00pm MST

Keynote 2 - Everest-Level Leadership: How Your Team Can Adapt, Pace, and Collaborate its Way to the Summit LIMITED

Friday January 17, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST

Richardson Hall

EVEREST-LEVEL LEADERSHIP: How Your Team Can Adapt, Pace, and Collaborate its Way to the Summit - Mount Everest takes two months to climb. Temperatures are cold enough to freeze your hands within 90 seconds. Glaciers underfoot can collapse at any second. There are cliffs up to 5 times as tall as the empire state building and avalanches that fall from those very cliffs. These challenges cause even the toughest of climbers to consider quitting on a daily basis. So how do they endure? The same way YOU can endure at your long-term vision, even if it feels impossible right now!

Speakers

John Beede

Climbon Success

Adventurer John Beede has been struck by lighting, attacked by a 5-foot iguana,and he once did the hokey-pokey in the eye of a hurricane. He’s been swimmingwith Hammerhead, Great White, and Whale sharks. He was even trapped in theIndonesian jungle between warring tribes and the... Read More →

Friday January 17, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MST
Richardson Hall