2026 AAEA Summer Conference

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 1

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Yell I-II (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Rural schools have worked hard to expand opportunity for students through pathways, partnerships, credentials, concurrent credit, regional collaboration, and local innovation. But creating opportunity and helping students successfully navigate it are not the same thing. This session makes the case for the next phase of rural education work: building coherent systems that make opportunities visible, understandable, and usable — for students and families, and for the educators and leaders trying to serve them.

Speakers

Justin Neel

Principal, Caddo Academy

Passionate and excited lead learner focused on bringing the real world into the classroom. I believe that strong community engagement fosters opportunities for student-focused learning.

Dr. Austin D. Eubanks

Assistant Director of Research and Programming, Office of Innovation for Education

After graduating out of Valley View in Jonesboro, I spent six-and-a-half years in the United States Marine Corps (first as an infantryman, then as a formal marksmanship instructor). I then began honing my expertise in research methodology, statistics, and human behavior at the University... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)

Company AACTEA

10:15am CDT

From Data to Impact: Strengthening Instruction for Student Success

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Ouachita (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Explore how Star City School District is moving from instructional alignment to measurable impact. This session highlights how the district uses its District Dashboard to connect curriculum, instruction, and assessment, ensuring decisions are driven by real-time data. Participants will learn practical strategies for creating instructional coherence and using district systems to strengthen teaching and improve student success.

Speakers

Gina Richard

Assistant Superintendent, Star City School District

Thea Capps

Literacy Curriculum Specialist, CALT, Star City Schools

Heather Gonzalez

Curriculum Specialist, CALT, Star City Schools

Jan Hill

K-5 Math Curriculum Specialist, Star City Schools

Whitney Dutton

Assistant Principal, Star City High School

Britnee Wright

Star City School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Ouachita (MCC)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Going Global with Cambridge International: A Practical Guide for Arkansas's Next Chapter in Advanced Education & Accelerated Learning

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 1

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Grampas (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

As one of the first to implement the Cambridge International pathway in Arkansas, the Rogers Public School District navigated the uncharted territory of bringing a globally recognized curriculum to the Natural State. Join us for a practical, "nuts and bolts" guide for administrators to launch Cambridge as an accelerated learning opportunity to YOUR district. We will share our firsthand experience and provide a clear roadmap for implementation, covering essential steps like curriculum mapping to Arkansas standards, structuring the master schedule, securing specialized teacher training, and building critical community buy-in. Whether you are actively exploring alternatives to AP and IB or simply curious about the Cambridge model, you will leave with an actionable playbook for your district.

Speakers

Charles Lee

Assistant Superintendent, Rogers Public Schools

I am an Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education at Rogers Public Schools. We are currently working on accelerated learning opportunities and the Cambridge International program at our secondary schools. I have been in education in Arkansas for 37 years serving at Assistant... Read More →

Dr. Kristy Brown

Assistant Superintendent, Rogers Public Schools

Dustin Seaton

Director of Advanced Programs, Rogers Public Schools

Dustin Seaton (Ed.S., Arkansas Tech University) is the Director of Advanced Programs at Rogers Public Schools, and previously held the position of Gifted & Talented Specialist at Northwest Arkansas Education Service Cooperative from 2017 to 2023, where he organized program options for 16 public s... Read More →

Tina McClure

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Grampas (MCC)

Company AAGEA

10:15am CDT

Leading with Purpose: Teacher Growth & Professional Learning

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Salon C (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

School leaders play a critical role in creating systems that develop, support, and retain effective educators. This session is designed for principals, district leaders, and instructional administrators seeking to strengthen teacher growth through intentional leadership practices.

Participants will explore strategies for building comprehensive onboarding and mentoring programs that support new teachers from their first day through their first three years in the profession. The session will also examine how leaders can establish a culture of data ownership by equipping teachers with the tools, knowledge, and accountability needed to monitor student progress and drive instructional improvement.

Additionally, attendees will learn how to lead and support Professional Learning Communities focused on Questions 3 and 4 of the PLC process: ensuring timely interventions for students who have not yet mastered essential learning and providing meaningful extensions for those who have. Through practical examples and leadership-focused strategies, participants will gain actionable ideas for building systems that improve teacher effectiveness and increase student achievement across their schools and districts.

Speakers

Dr. Adam Eckard

Assistant Principal, Jonesboro Public Schools

Mandy Zipfel

District School Improvement Specialist, Jonesboro Schools

Mandy Zipfel is the District School Improvement Specialist in the Jonesboro School District. She is starting her 20th year in education. Prior to her current role, Mrs. Zipfel served as mid-level ELA/Social Studies teacher, school counselor, school improvement specialist, assistant... Read More →

Angela Murphy

STEM Instructional Coach, Jonesboro Leadership Magnet School, Jonesboro Public Schools

STEM Instructional Coach, Jonesboro Leadership Magnet School

Harry Dickens

Curriculum Associates - i-Ready

Bring our research-based products to your classroom to help all of your students succeed. i-Ready®, i-ReadyClassroom Mathematics, and Ready® deliver meaningful assessment and data-driven, differentiated instruction.Magnetic Reading Foundations connects the art of teaching with the... Read More →

Alice Shirey

Arkansas Sales Consultant, Curriculum Associates - i-Ready

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Salon C (M)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Reclaiming the Math Classroom: A Framework for Sustainable Differentiation

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

White Oak (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Math leaders face a daily challenge: supporting stretched teachers while meeting the needs of every student. In Mayflower Public Schools, this sparked a shift from one-size-fits-all instruction to a more personalized, student-centered, mastery-based approach.

In this session, co-presented with The Modern Classrooms Project, district leaders will share how they are equipping educators with aligned resources and coaching to move beyond lecture toward targeted, responsive support. Participants will hear Mayflower's story, gain practical strategies, and see how this partnership is driving stronger engagement and measurable growth in math outcomes.

Speakers

Veronica Hebard

District-Level Staff or Administrator (e.g., superintendent, Chief Academic Officer, professional learning coordinator, etc.), MAYFLOWER SCHOOL DISTRICT

Sophia Kor

Partnership Engagement Manager, Modern Classrooms

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
White Oak (MCC)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

What Do We Mean by “Growth”? Rethinking Progress in the Arkansas VAM Model

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 1

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Salon A (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

In education policy and practice, "growth" is often assumed to mean doing better on a test than last year. But is improvement the same as growth? This session unpacks the critical differences between intuitive notions of student progress—such as higher scores or gains from one year to the next—and how "growth" is formally defined within the Arkansas Department of Education Value-Added Model (VAM).

Participants will explore how the Arkansas VAM conceptualizes growth as a statistical estimate of student performance relative to predicted outcomes, rather than simple score increases. Participants will examine how this distinction affects teacher evaluation, accountability decisions, and classroom practice. Through clear examples and practical scenarios, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how growth models work, what they measure (and what they do not), and why the definition of growth matters for educators, leaders, and policymakers.

This session invites educators to think critically about what it truly means for students and schools to grow.

Speakers

Hope Worsham

Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability, Arkansas Department of Education

Hope Worsham serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability at the Arkansas Department of Education, where she leads statewide efforts to support school performance and ensure meaningful use of data in decision-making. With a career spanning multiple leadership... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Salon A (M)

Company DESE

10:15am CDT

Building It Right: Legal Requirements, Partnership Funding, and Public Bidding

Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 1

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Chicot (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session provides public school leaders with a clear, practical overview of facilities requirements from early planning through construction bidding and contract award. With guidance grounded in standards established by the Division of Public School Academic Facilities and Transportation, the class explains pre-construction approvals, design and professional service thresholds, Academic Facilities Partnership Program rules and ranking criteria, documentation expectations, and public bidding requirements under Arkansas Code § 22-9-203.

Presider

Cedric Hawkins

Deputy Superintendent, West Memphis School District

Speakers

Travis Spence

Senior Area Project Manager, Arkansas Dept of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Chicot (MCC)

Company ASPMA

10:15am CDT

From Compliance to Confidence: Implementing Behavioral Threat Assessments with Clarity and Protection

Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 1

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Pope (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

The Arkansas LEARNS Act has placed clear expectations on districts to establish Behavioral Threat Assessment teams and procedures. While many schools have taken the necessary steps toward compliance, questions remain about consistency, documentation, communication and, most importantly, liability. This session is designed for school administrators who want to ensure their district is not only compliant on paper, but also operating in a way that strengthens student and staff safety while reducing institutional risk. Participants will gain practical guidance on aligning policies and procedures with LEARNS Act requirements, building defensible documentation systems, and creating clear internal protocols. Participants will examine how gaps in process, inconsistent documentation, or unclear roles can increase vulnerability, and how to proactively close those gaps. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how to move from minimal compliance to confident implementation, creating systems that protect students, support staff, and demonstrate due diligence.

Speakers

Bekah Coursey

Social Worker, CTM Consulting

We are Licensed Clinical Social Workers and consultants with more than 25 years of combined experience working in schools, crisis response, behavioral health, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Through CTM Consulting, we partner with schools across Arkansas to strengthen Behavioral... Read More →

Becca Sparks

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Pope (SCC)

Company AASSP

10:15am CDT

Accelerate School Procurement: How TIPS Delivers Faster, Compliant, Cost‑Effective Contracts

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Salon B (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

School leaders face growing demands to do more with less while ensuring procurement stays fully compliant and transparent. This 45 to 60-minute session will show superintendents and district procurement teams how The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS) simplifies purchasing through competitively solicited, pre-qualified contracts—reducing timelines, lowering costs, and minimizing procurement risk. Using real K–12 examples, participants will walk through contract categories most relevant to districts (construction, facilities, technology, transportation, and classroom supplies), contract usage best practices, and steps to onboard vendors and staff.

Speakers

Stacey McPherson

Program Manager, TIPS

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Salon B (M)

Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Ethics Disclosures

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Miller (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session reviews the ethics disclosure rules for transactions involving employees, administrators, and school board members.

Speakers

Charles Warren

CFO, Fort Smith School District

Charles Warren is the Chief Financial Officer for the Fort Smith Public School District. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Accounting from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. He earned a Masters of Business... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Miller (SCC)

Company AASBO

10:15am CDT

Federal Updates

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Izard (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Direct from the halls of Congress to the heart of Arkansas, this session provides a high-level briefing on the legislative shifts and federal policy changes currently unfolding in Washington, D.C.. Join Kimberly Glass, Lea Metcalf-McDonald, and Amanda Bittle as they break down the latest news on federal funding, evolving regulations, and the K-12 policies most likely to impact your district in the coming school year.

Speakers

Kimberly Glass

Director of Federal Programs, Springdale Schools

Kimberly Glass directs and oversees federal programs for Springdale Public Schools. Kimberly is serving as the Past President of the National Association of Federal Education Program Administrators. (NAFEPA) She is an award-winning Federal Coordinator earning both the Arkansas Association... Read More →

Lea Metcalf-McDonald

Amanda Bittle

Federal Programs/Curriculum Coordinator, McGehee School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Izard (SCC)

Company AAFC

10:15am CDT

High Leverage Human Capital Strategies

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Conway (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will provide practical strategies to improve the functions of human capital management.

Speakers

Melissa Tucker

El Dorado School District

Greg Mones

Director of Human Resources, Fayetteville Public School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Conway (MCC)

Company ArkASPA

10:15am CDT

Mastering the Maze: Navigating FOIA and Legal Requests, Technical Strategy Meets Legal Compliance

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Drew (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

In an era of increasing digital complexity and heightened public scrutiny, responding to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and legal discovery requests is no longer just "finding a paper file." It requires a seamless partnership between administrative leadership, legal counsel, and IT departments.

Speakers

Paul Miller

Support Staff, Springdale Schools

Kendra Clay

General Counsel, Springdale Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Drew (SCC)

Company TEL-AR

10:15am CDT

A Principal & Counselor’s Journey to School Improvement

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Manning (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

School improvement is most powerful when leadership and student support systems work together. In this session, a middle school principal and school counselor share how their partnership helped transform East End Middle School through a collaborative, data-driven approach to improvement. Participants will learn how aligning the school counseling program with the school improvement plan strengthened outcomes in academics, behavior, and school culture. Presenters will share how targeted SMART goals, a systematic RTI process, and a collaborative Student Intervention Team helped move the school from the only D-rated school in the district to the only A-rated school within two years. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for building strong principal-counselor partnerships, using data to guide decisions, and creating systems that support meaningful and sustainable school improvement.

Presider

David Yates

Elkins School District

Speakers

Jessica Ashcraft

Dr. Heather Williams

Director of School Support and Leadership, Sheridan School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Manning (M)

Company AAMLA

10:15am CDT

Building a Leadership Pipeline: Growing District Leaders from Within

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Harris Brake (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session highlights how a team of district leaders in an A-rated district advanced through the ranks—from classroom teachers and campus administrators to building and district-level leadership. Presenters will share how their district intentionally developed a leadership pipeline by identifying, mentoring, and supporting future leaders. Participants will learn practical strategies for cultivating leadership capacity within their own organizations and why investing in internal talent strengthens schools, improves continuity, and supports long-term district success.

Speakers

Mathew Thornton

Assistant Superintendent, Lakeside (Hot Springs)

Mathew Thornton serves as an Assistant Superintendent for Lakeside School District in Hot Springs, Arkansas. He works to formulate solutions for issues pertaining to Safety, Technology, Leadership, Policy, FOI, Systemns Administration, Transportation, Facilities and Standards.

Blake Campbell

Assistant Superintendent, Lakeside School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)

10:15am CDT

Crisis Communications when Minutes Matter

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Arkansas Ballroom (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

In this session, Springdale School District's district leadership and communications director will present effective strategies to communicate with all stakeholders when significant events occur in a school or district. Participants will receive tools they can use when crisis events occur so leaders do not have to start from scratch while under significant pressure to act.

Speakers

Dr. Jared Cleveland

Superintendent, Springdale Public Schools

Looking forward to the conference!

Trent Jones

Director of Communications and Community Engagement, Springdale School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)

Company AASA

10:15am CDT

Dodging the Docket: Smart Moves Before and After a Due Process Filing

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Fulton (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Special education due process filings can be stressful and time-consuming—but many disputes can be prevented with the right strategies. This session provides school administrators with practical, legally grounded guidance for staying ahead of conflicts and responding effectively when a filing occurs.

Speakers

Shasta Wagner

General Counsel, Conway Public Schools

Leila Seigrist

General Counsel, Cabot Public Schools

Claire Wilkinson

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Fulton (SCC)

Company AASEA

10:15am CDT

From Minor League to Major Leagues: Systems that Will Help You "Go Yard" with Feedback and Growth

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Caraway I-III (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Whether you are in the minor league as a building leader or have already made it to the Big Leagues, attend and learn about practical Greenbrier systems for the win! From their "practice schedule" of Rock Solid meetings, to "making their lineup" of teacher support, and through a successful "game day" in the classrooms — you'll learn how building leaders GET coaching to improve their instructional leadership and then GIVE coaching that helps improve every teacher's instructional game. Lessons from a first-year principal and a sixth-year principal, with collaboration from district leaders, are on the highlight reel in this session.

Speakers

Kelley Krogman

Elementary Principal, Greenbrier Public Schools

I am the principal at Westside Elementary in Greenbrier! This is my 14th year in education with a wide range of experience in both Special Education and the General Education classroom! I love to lead with a students-first mindset and a deep commitment to joy in learning. My goal... Read More →

Josh Lyra

Principal, Greenbrier Public Schools

I am proud to serve as the Principal of Greenbrier Junior High. This will be my eighth year in the Greenbrier School District. Prior to becoming principal, I taught middle school math and later served as the Assistant Principal at Greenbrier Junior High. My goal is to build strong... Read More →

Ashley Hammett

Director of Learning Services, Greenbrier Public Schools, Greenbrier Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)

Company AACIA

10:15am CDT

Mic Drop Session: Effective Leadership Strategies

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Riverview (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Elementary school administrators share brief presentations on leadership topics they are passionate about.

Speakers

Justin Swope

Principal, George Elementary School

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Riverview (MCC)

Company AAESP

10:15am CDT

SHIFTing from Surviving to Thriving

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT

Neosho (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

SHIFT—Systems, High Expectations, Instruction, Family, and Teamwork—tells a powerful story of transformation. When a school stops surviving and starts thriving, everything changes. Learn how clear systems replaced chaos, expectations unlocked potential, instruction drove growth, families became partners, and teamwork fueled success—moving Murrell Taylor Elementary from a F to a B.

Speakers

Dr. Brandy Howell

Jennifer Spriggs

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Neosho (MCC)

11:30am CDT

Own It! Accountability in Instruction

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Caraway I-III (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

What does real accountability look like in today’s classrooms? This engaging workshop explores how educators can take ownership of instructional practices that drive measurable student growth. Participants will learn practical strategies to set clear expectations, monitor learning with purpose, respond to data effectively, and create a culture where both teachers and students “own” the learning.

Speakers

Dr. Dondre Harris

Principal, Bryant Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Right-Sizing Assessment: From Scores to Strategy

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Salon B (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

How much assessment is enough — and what actually moves instruction forward? Join cadre leaders and a representative from Public School Accountability for a candid conversation about balancing accountability requirements with meaningful classroom practice. This panel will explore how to right-size assessment systems so they reduce noise, elevate clarity, and position formative assessment as the primary driver of daily instructional decisions. Participants will also learn about statewide opportunities to engage in ongoing conversations throughout the year and preview learning modules currently in development to support this work. Walk away with practical insights for building coherence between state measures and classroom moves that accelerate student growth.

Speakers

Chrissy McNabb

Project Manager - CCFAL, Office of Innovation for Education

After seven years in the classroom, Chrissy joined the Office of Innovation for Education to have a greater impact on education. She is passionate about students being the focus of learning and creating a learning environment that supports students. She now leads the charge in the... Read More →

Hope Worsham

Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Salon B (M)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Beyond Compliance: Measuring the Impact of Federal Dollars

Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 2

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Izard (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Federal funds should be strategic investments, not routine expenditures. This session explores how to measure return on investment, use data to determine what is closing achievement gaps, and make informed funding decisions. Learn practical strategies to evaluate impact, adjust ineffective programs, and ensure every federal dollar drives measurable student success.

Speakers

Christine Harrell

Director of Federal Programs, Searcy Public School District

As Director of Federal Programs for the Searcy Public School System, Christine Harrell has spent the past 15 years leading initiatives focused on educational equity, program effectiveness, and student success. Known for her collaborative leadership and commitment to meeting the evolving... Read More →

Amy Robson

Federal Programs Coordinator, Flippin School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Izard (SCC)

Company AAFC

11:30am CDT

Transparency vs. Confidentiality: Navigating Executive Sessions and Personnel Records in Arkansas Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Conway (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session focuses on the Freedom of Information Act in Arkansas with special emphasis on executive sessions and how to respond to request for personnel information.

Speakers

Shasta Wagner

General Counsel, Conway Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Conway (MCC)

Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

What’s Keeping Your School Staff Up at Night?

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Salon C (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Today's school staff are navigating a complex mix of financial pressures and family responsibilities that extend well beyond the classroom. This session examines the most common concerns affecting the education workforce and explores how districts can respond with meaningful, practical support. Participants will gain insight into the challenges their staff face outside of work and leave with strategies for building a workplace culture that acknowledges and addresses those needs, ultimately improving retention, morale, and overall staff well-being.

Speakers

Educational Benefits, Inc.

John Starling

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Salon C (M)

Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Be the Change! Offer a K-12 virtual option.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Ouachita (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

A virtual campus option that assists districts in retaining students, expands learning opportunities, offers flexible learning pathways, and strengthens public education.

Speakers

Tammy Manning

K-12 Principal, Virtual Academy at the River

I hold a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Gifted & Talented Education. I spent 13 years teaching students in grades 2–8, during which I also served on numerous curriculum and instructional leadership committees. Currently, I serve as the Administrator of the Virtual... Read More →

Brandi Williams

Instructional Coach, Virtual Academy at the River

Krystle Summers

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Ouachita (MCC)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Farmland & Forest as an Immersive Learning Environment

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Grampas (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

The new Woodland Junior High School in Fayetteville is being designed as a next-generation model for sustainable and wellness-focused school construction. Through thoughtful architecture, natural materials, abundant daylight, and strong connections to outdoor learning environments, the campus prioritizes the emotional well-being, health, and academic success of adolescents.

The project is pursuing WELL Building Standard certification, placing student mental and physical wellness at the center of the design, while also incorporating sustainable construction strategies that reduce environmental impact and create healthier learning spaces.

This presentation explores how Woodland Junior High’s integrated approach to sustainability, wellness, and educational design can serve as a replicable model for school districts seeking to build environments that support both student well-being and environmental responsibility.

Speakers

Meredith Hendricks

Vice President - Sustainability, Entegrity

Meredith Hendricks is a leader in the realm of sustainability and buildings and her passion for improving the built environment has shaped clients’ corporate policies and decision making at the highest level. As Vice President of Sustainability for Entegrity, Meredith leads the... Read More →

Dr. Julie Williams

Deputy Superintendent, Fayetteville Public Schools

Dr. Williams has dedicated 36 years to public education, building a career defined by unwavering commitment, compassionate leadership, and a deep belief in the transformative power of schools. Throughout her tenure, she has been a tireless advocate for marginalized students, working... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Grampas (MCC)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

From Vision to Impact: How a Rural School Built a Life-Ready Ecosystem

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Pope (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Rural schools often have big visions but limited resources. This session will highlight how Caddo Academy transformed its “Warpath to Excellence” vision into real opportunities for students through career pathways, community partnerships, student leadership programs, and innovative culture systems. Participants will learn practical strategies to build a Life-Ready school culture that connects academics, workforce skills, and community engagement while creating measurable impact for students.

Speakers

Justin Neel

Principal, Caddo Academy

Passionate and excited lead learner focused on bringing the real world into the classroom. I believe that strong community engagement fosters opportunities for student-focused learning.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Pope (SCC)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Generations at Work: Strategies for Recruiting, Retaining, and Uniting Your School Team

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Arkansas Ballroom (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Recruiting and retaining a multigenerational staff starts with recognizing that each age group defines a “great place to work” differently. School and district teams today include brand‑new teachers, seasoned veterans, and everyone in between—a mix that becomes a real strength when leaders know how to harness it.

In this session, we will examine what attracts and keeps educators from different generations—an essential piece of today’s staffing puzzle. We will help you make sense of generational differences in a way that’s practical and relatable. You’ll explore what motivates each group, why certain communication styles clash, and how to turn those differences into opportunities for stronger teamwork. Finally, we’ll dig into everyday strategies for fostering collaboration so staff can work together more smoothly across PLCs, grade levels, and leadership teams.

Speakers

Dr. Mark Gotcher

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Military Career Awareness: Access for Students

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Hoffman (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Many states, including Arkansas, offer robust career pathways for students, yet military pathways are often underrepresented, leaving large numbers of learners without meaningful exposure to military career options, requirements, awareness, and opportunities. While JROTC is an outstanding program, it reaches a limited share of schools, creating an access gap that disproportionately impacts rural and smaller districts.

In this session, participants will learn how Arkansas created a statewide, online military pathway designed to be accessible to any high school student regardless of whether their local campus offers JROTC.

Participants will leave with a practical blueprint for how to provide access to the Arkansas Military Service and Security Pathway, including using their own local teacher.

Speakers

John Ashworth

Executive Director & Superintendent, Virtual Arkansas

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

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Hoffman (M)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Strength in Schools. Success in Children.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Salon A (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

The Siloam Springs School District has spent the better part of the last two years bringing the vision of neighborhood schools to life in order to impact our student's education experience in a positive way. During this session the SSSD administration will discuss the journey in transitioning to a neighborhood school model and the lessons learned through rethinking grade configurations, curriculum alignment, managing facilities, and more.

Speakers

Shane Patrick

Superintendent, Siloam Springs School District

Amy Carter

Assistant Superintendent, Siloam Springs School District

Joe McClung

Assistant Superintendent, Siloam Springs School Distirct

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Salon A (M)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

The Kindergarten Readiness Crisis: What School Leaders Can Do Before Children Arrive

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Riverview (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Kindergarten teachers across the country are seeing the same challenge: more children are arriving at school without the language, self-regulation, and early learning foundations needed to succeed. The truth is, the readiness gap begins years before a child ever walks into a kindergarten classroom.

This session will explore how school leaders can strengthen kindergarten readiness by partnering with the early childhood programs already serving their communities. Participants will learn how collaboration with child care providers, preschool programs, and families can support stronger transitions to kindergarten, improve early literacy outcomes, and ultimately impact long-term student success.

If we want to see real impact in kindergarten, our vision must begin in the birth-to-five years.

Presider

Mark Lewis

Conway Public Schools (Retired)

Speakers

Kristen Weatherall

Local Lead Captain, Arch Ford

Kristen Weatherall, MSE, is an Early Childhood Local Lead with Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative, serving as an extension of the Office of Early Childhood. A licensed administrator with a background in educational leadership, Kristen supports schools and early childhood programs... Read More →

Dr. Dayna Lewis

Local Lead, Conway Public Schools

Dr. Dayna Lewis is bringing her extensive experience and dedication to early childhood education in her role as the Faulkner County Local Lead Captain. With over 30 years in education, including leadership positions that earned her school National Blue Ribbon distinctions in 2018... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Riverview (MCC)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Tunnel Vision: Changing Education One Child at a Time!!

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Neosho (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Being the change in education to ensure each child is set up for success by getting the education they need and deserve. In the El Dorado School District and with the El Dorado PROMISE, we believe every child deserves a quality education. We will take a look at what we are doing that is working or expected to work in education now and in the future. Will it be enough to sustain growth and achievement for all students?

Speakers

Alex Peterson

School Counselor, Hugh Goodwin

Brooklyn Graves

Instructional Facilitator, Hugh Goodwin

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Neosho (MCC)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Enhancing Communication Through Improv

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Miller (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This interactive session utilizes ice-breaker games and improv exercises to improve your communication skills and build a collaborative team.

Speakers

Charles Warren

CFO, Fort Smith School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Miller (SCC)

11:30am CDT

From Surviving to Thriving: Reimagining School Culture with the DILTS Nested Levels of Learning

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

White Oak (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This presentation will examine the journey undertaken by stakeholders at Leverett Elementary School during the 2025–2026 school year to improve school culture and climate while increasing teacher retention and satisfaction through the use of the DILTS Nested Levels of Learning framework.

School systems often implement initiatives aimed at improving culture without achieving sustained success. This session will explore a more intentional, research-based approach by highlighting the strategies, processes, and lessons learned throughout this initiative. Participants will gain insight into the multiple factors that influence school culture and climate and learn how school leaders can make a meaningful impact through purposeful planning and implementation.

The presentation will provide an overview of the DILTS model, share practical examples of how the framework can be applied and adapted across various K–12 settings, and present data demonstrating its positive effects on school culture, staff satisfaction, and retention.

Speakers

Christie Cremo

Leverett Elementary Principal, Fayetteville Public Schools

I am the proud principal of Leverett Elementary School in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where I believe strong relationships, high expectations, and intentional systems can truly change outcomes for kids. I am passionate about creating a school where every student feels seen, valued, supported... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
White Oak (MCC)

11:30am CDT

Future-Proofing Your Pipeline: The Paid Residency Blueprint

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Harris Brake (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Stop searching for teachers and start growing them. Join JNPSD, LSRD, and UA Little Rock to discover how a strategic university partnership can transform your recruitment strategy. We’ll show you how to leverage paid residencies to:
*Eliminate "Day One" Jitters: Learn how year-long residencies create novices who perform like veterans.
*Scale to Fit: See how this model works for both large urban centers and mid-sized districts.
*Fund the Future: A deep dive into the "paid" residency model—how to invest now to save on turnover costs later.

Speakers

Dr Jeremy Owoh

Superintendent, Jacksonville North Pulaski School District

Dr. Jeremy S. Owoh serves as Superintendent of the Jacksonville North Pulaski School District and President of the ISTE+ASCD Board of Directors. With more than two decades of experience in education, he has served as a teacher, principal, assistant commissioner at the Arkansas Department... Read More →

Dr. Jermall Wright

Dr. Rachel Eells

Director, School of Education, UA Little Rock

As Director of UA Little Rock's School of Education, I am excited to tell you about what we can do for your schools!Our undergraduate pathways to licensure provide opportunities for schools and districts to recruit and retain local talent into their teaching force. Our residency model... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)

11:30am CDT

Operationalizing RTI: Aligning PLCs, Scheduling, and Student Needs

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Fulton (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will outline a comprehensive redesign of our school’s RTI system built around a dedicated flexible period and a clearly defined five-zone framework. Rather than operating as a fragmented pull-out model, RTI is embedded into the master schedule and driven by PLC decision-making, assessment cycles, and structured student placement protocols.

Participants will learn how Zone 1 provides intensive, service-based interventions (SPED, math/ELA intervention, high-impact tutoring), while Zone 2 supports identified “pathway” students using targeted, individualized skill platforms aligned to interim, summative, and classroom data. Zones 3–5 operate dynamically on a weekly cycle: PLCs review student progress, determine skill gaps or enrichment needs, and collaboratively assign students to reteach sessions, extension opportunities, with open study/work sessions available. Core departments are prioritized in placement windows, and teachers retain final placement authority, while students are given structured choice to advocate for additional support or challenge.

The session will detail logistics including semester data reviews, weekly PLC planning structures, student sign-up protocols, scheduling guardrails, and systems for revisiting placements after assessment checkpoints. Attendees will leave with a replicable framework for transforming a flexible period into a precision support model that balances intervention, enrichment, student ownership, and operational clarity.

Speakers

Callie Sanchez

Principal, Bentonville School District

Danielle Renfroe

Joe Herrington

Assistant Principal, Bentonville Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Fulton (SCC)

Company DESE

11:30am CDT

School Based Intervention Team (SBIT) Come To The Table!

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Chicot (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Forest Heights STEM Academy leadership team will present their successful approach to SBIT. We have polished and refined our process so that it meets the needs of all stakeholders, students, parents, teachers and administrators. Participants will see the entire process beginning with the referral process, through the actual SBIT meeting. Forms and all documents used will be presented and available.

Speakers

Barbara Kirkpatrick

Forest Heights STEM Academy

Philip Alderman

Tabitha Turner

Londria King

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)

11:30am CDT

Turning Leadership Vision into Measurable School Impact

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT

Manning (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

School leaders often have a strong vision for their campuses, but the real challenge is turning that vision into action that makes a difference for students and teachers. In this session, I will share how intentional leadership moves, like buildiong strong collaborative teams, focusing on clear priorities, and implementing restorative practices, can shift school culture and improve outcomes for students. Participants will leave with practical ideas they can take back to their campus to being turning their own vision into impact.

Speakers

Dr. Bethanie Hale

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Manning (M)

11:30am CDT

Lunch Available

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT

Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

12:20pm CDT

DESE Educator Effectiveness & Licensure Updates

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Salon A (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Brandie Benton

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

Brandie Benton previously served as the deputy superintendent of curriculum and instruction at Virtual Arkansas. Before joining the team at Virtual Arkansas, Benton was the associate provost for enrollment services and admissions at Henderson State University from July 2017 to June... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Salon A (M)

12:20pm CDT

Is Your System Making an Impact?

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Manning (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

You’ve got ATLAS data. CFAs. VAM scores. Dashboards full of numbers. But is your system actually driving student growth?

Join us to explore how an educational cooperative partners with principals, curriculum leaders, superintendents, and teachers to move beyond compliance and into coherence. Learn how teams analyze ATLAS results, strengthen CFAs, leverage VAM scores, and align instruction to create measurable, sustainable student growth.

Walk away with practical strategies to evaluate your current systems, tighten alignment, and turn data into action—not just activity.

Because initiatives don’t change outcomes. Systems do.

Speakers

Dr. Julie Workman

Teacher Center Coordinator, Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative

Jacob Sisson

Arch Forward System Support Specialist, Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative

System Support Specialist with the Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative through the Arch Forward Consortium. I am the Past President of both the Arkansas Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ACTM) and the Arkansas Association of Mathematical Leaders (AAML) as well as the Affiliate Coordinator of the Natio... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Manning (M)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Scaling the Seal of Biliteracy: A Step-by-Step Guide to the State and Global Application Process

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Neosho (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

How can schools transform linguistic diversity into a competitive advantage? This session provides a comprehensive walkthrough of supporting students through the state and global Seal of Biliteracy application processes.

Using Heritage High School as a case study, presenters will detail how to build sustainable systems that empower significant populations of multilingual and first-generation students to earn the Seal of Biliteracy. We will cover the "Who, How, and Why" of the program, moving from initial identification to the final award application. Attendees will walk away with a strategic roadmap, including ready-to-use templates and implementation examples to scale these programs effectively at their own sites.

Speakers

Chip Greenwell

Principal, Rogers Heritage High School

Adrienne Cooke

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Neosho (MCC)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Building Safer Schools Together

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Chicot (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

School safety is not confined to the campus perimeter. It is strengthened when schools and communities operate as a cohesive system built on trust, transparency, and mutual responsibility. This session outlines practical frameworks for cultivating strong partnerships that move safety from reactive response to proactive prevention.

Speakers

Eric King

Director of Safety and Security, Conway Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)

Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Creating the Digital Ghost

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Salon C (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Protecting student data shouldn't be a mystery. Join me to learn the essential technique for masking student identities and 'Creating the Digital Ghost' to ensure your district stays ahead of digital privacy risks.

Speakers

Johnny Ramsey

Technology Director (former educator), West Side School District

Technical translator & PII obfuscation authority in education. "Privacy isn't just a feature you buy; it's a philosophy you build." The Reality: We are looking at a system built on financial risk mitigation rather than actual data protection. The district protects itself from lawsuits... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Salon C (M)

Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Hiring Is Only the Beginning: Retaining Educators in Arkansas Public Schools

Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 3

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Conway (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Recruiting educators is only the first step in building a strong school workforce. Across Arkansas, districts are discovering that retaining talented educators requires intentional support, strong leadership, and positive school cultures.
This session will explore how Arkansas districts can strengthen their educator workforce by focusing on effective retention strategies while maintaining strong recruitment practices. Participants will review Arkansas workforce data, examine key factors influencing teacher retention, and learn practical strategies to support educators throughout their careers.
The session will highlight approaches such as effective onboarding, mentorship, leadership practices, professional growth opportunities, and workplace culture improvements that help educators stay and thrive in Arkansas schools.
Participants will leave with practical strategies and action steps to improve educator retention in their own districts.

Speakers

Dr. Amy Manley

Director of Recruitment and Retention, Fort Smith Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Conway (MCC)

Company DESE

12:20pm CDT

Raising the Rigor: How Sheridan School District Uses CFAs

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Salon B (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Learn how Sheridan School District is raising rigor by using a reliable third-party CFA platform aligned to Arkansas standards. District leaders will share how they design CFAs, review results, and use the data to guide instructional decisions. The session will explore DnA, including how it supports standards-based assessment creation, offers instant scoring and feedback, and provides reporting that helps educators understand student performance by standard and item. Participants will walk away with practical examples of how CFAs and DnA can work together to support consistent, standards-aligned instructional practices.

Speakers

Dr. Dave Maddock

National Academic Advisor, Renaissance Learning

Dr. Missy Walley

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Salon B (M)

Instructional Technology, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Building Success Beyond the School Day: How Searcy School District Designed and Implemented High-Impact After-School Tutoring

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

White Oak (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will highlight how administrators in the Searcy School District successfully designed, built, and implemented after-school tutoring programs as a Tier III Response to Intervention (RTI) support for students requiring intensive academic assistance. Participants will gain insight into the systems, structures, and leadership decisions that made the program effective and sustainable.

The session will explore both quantitative and qualitative evidence of success, including measurable student growth and stakeholder feedback. Additionally, attendees will learn how district leaders developed strong partnerships with staff, families, and community stakeholders to ensure consistent participation and long-term impact.

Speakers

Heather Franks

Principal, Searcy School District

Dr. Bobby Hart

Superintendent, Searcy SD

Bethany Philpot

Principal, Searcy Public School

Dr. Rich O'Connell

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
White Oak (MCC)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Digital Citizenship Playbook: Helping Students Make Tech Work for Them

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Drew (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

As technology transforms classrooms and childhood at lightning speed, educators face a growing challenge: how do we help students use technology responsibly, creatively, and critically - not just safely? This session explores how schools and families can work together to foster true digital citizenship in a time shaped by AI, social media, and constant connectivity. Drawing from real data and insights from Bark's work with schools nationwide, this session highlights key items to include in any online safety plan to empower students with practical digital skills.

Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for:

- Modeling healthy tech behavior in the classroom
- Balancing conversations around tech as a tool in the classroom
- Building digital resilience and emotional regulation skills
- Engaging families as partners in shaping healthy tech habits

Grounded in both research and lived experiences from today's schools, this session helps educators see digital skills as a key element for postsecondary success.

Speakers

Adam Brooks

Program Coordinator, Bark

Adam Brooks has spent over a decade as a teacher, a special education facilitator, a college professor, and business consultant. Over the past 5 years alone, Adam has spoken to more than 32,000 students and trained over 62 nonprofit organizations, including 15,000 managers and educators... Read More →

Sponsors

Matthew Cyr

Bark

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Drew (SCC)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Unlocking Learning: An Introduction to the Science of Learning

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Ouachita (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

How can thoughtful instructional design improve student learning outcomes?
This session provides an overview of the Science of Learning and explores how research-
based instructional decisions can strengthen student understanding, retention, and transfer of knowledge. Participants will examine key terms, foundational research, and the cognitive
principles that inform effective teaching practices.

Speakers

Jill Heard

Virtual Arkansas

Rebecca Mills

Curriculum and Instruction Specialist, Virtual Arkansas

Justin Howell

Science Design Specialist, Virtual Arkansas

Brooke Suyal

Implementation Specialist, Virtual Arkansas

Brooke Suyal is an Implementation Specialist at Virtual Arkansas with over nine years of experience in online learning, specializing in instructional design. At Virtual Arkansas, Brooke has designed and developed numerous courses and project-managed the creation of key programs, including... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Ouachita (MCC)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Best Year Yet- Leading Successfully Through Change

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Riverview (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

In this session, I will share my journey leading a school through closing as part of our district's right sizing efforts, maintaining a positive school culture, and increasing our school letter grade from a D to a B. I will also share how we combined two school communities, on-boarded 7 new teachers, grew our school by 1/4, improved ATLAS assessment scores, and built a strong school culture through shared leadership.

Speakers

Dr. Dawn Childress

Principal of Cook Elementary, Fort Smith School District

Dr. Childress has completed her 13th year as a building administrator. She obtained her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Arkansas in 2019. Under her leadership, Raymond F. Orr Elementary achieved High Reliability Schools Level 4 Certification and became a... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Riverview (MCC)

12:20pm CDT

Built of T.H.A.T.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Fulton (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Built for T.H.A.T.: Listening, Acting, and Thinking with Heart is an interactive leadership and personal development session that helps participants strengthen their decision-making through the T.H.A.T. framework—Thorough, Heart-centric, Authentic, and Thinking. The presentation combines reflection and real-life scenarios to encourage intentional listening, empathy, and confident action.

Participants will develop a mindset of being quick to listen and intentional to act, create a personal T.H.A.T. mantra, and leave with practical strategies to apply thoughtful, heart-led decision-making in their work, leadership, and daily lives.

Speakers

Dr. Micheal Stone

Superintendent, Lee County School District

Dr. Micheal Stone is a transformative educational leader, systems thinker, and published author whose career is rooted in a deep commitment to equity, excellence, and community. A native of Marianna, Arkansas, and a proud son of the Arkansas Delta, Dr. Stone has dedicated his life... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Fulton (SCC)

12:20pm CDT

Energy, Identity, and Change: Leading Adults to Transform Student Outcomes

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Caraway I-III (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session explores how leaders can intentionally shift team energy, identity, and interactions to create the conditions for real change in teaching and learning. Participants will experience practical strategies to transform meetings into high-impact collaborative spaces that build ownership, clarity, and results. Grounded in Adaptive Schools principles, this session provides immediately usable tools to strengthen teams and improve student outcomes.

Speakers

Chrissy McNabb

Project Manager - CCFAL, Office of Innovation for Education

Dr. Kelly Hankins

Learning Design & Innovation Lead, Office of Innovation for Education

I am passionate about helping adults do the work that ultimately changes outcomes for students. My career has spanned classrooms, school leadership, and statewide support, giving me a deep understanding of the complexities educators face every day.I partner with schools and districts... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)

12:20pm CDT

Enhancing Communication Through Improv

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Miller (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This interactive session utilizes ice-breaker games and improv exercises to improve your communication skills and build a collaborative team.

Speakers

Charles Warren

CFO, Fort Smith School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Miller (SCC)

12:20pm CDT

Every Problem is a Leadership Problem: Own the Solution or Own the Failure

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Arkansas Ballroom (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

The leadership ability of the principal or the superintendent determines the level of effectiveness of the school district or the building. You can improve your leadership and in so doing you can improve the effectiveness of the organization that you serve. We can blame funding, state laws, or demographics. But, the truth is that every problem is a leadership problem. We can improve our leadership and that is a choice. Do we own the failure? Or do we fix it? I will discuss The Leadership Challenge as the operating system and the Leadership Practices Inventory as the treatment. All of our students deserve the best. Let's choose to improve our leadership skills such that all of those whom we serve receive our very best.

Speakers

Dr. Doug Adams

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)

12:20pm CDT

Fiscal Leadership: Mastering the "Buckets" of School and District Finance

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Izard (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

For school and district leaders, resource management is a constant balancing act. The challenge isn't just having enough funding—it’s understanding the specific "buckets" those funds come in, the restrictions attached to them, and the timeline for spending them.

This session provides a clear framework for managing local, state, and federal funding streams effectively. We will discuss how to maximize current-year allocations to meet immediate student needs while simultaneously building a resilient 5-year budget. Participants will learn how to bridge the gap between site-level priorities and district-level finance, ensuring that today’s spending supports tomorrow’s stability.

Speakers

Dr. Mickey McFetridge

Administration, Fayetteville

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Izard (SCC)

12:20pm CDT

From Absent to Present: Building a Collaborative Culture using Technology to Combat Chronic Absenteeism and Increase Student Achievement

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Harris Brake (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Many schools and districts are still reeling from the drop in attendance since the pandemic. In this session, learn how attendance teams can access a zero-cost, pre-populated Excel spreadsheet that disaggregates Cognos data and turns the data into names of specific students in different subgroups like gender, SES, ELL, and even zip codes. That specialized data can be used to design or strengthen strategies to combat chronic absenteeism and increase overall attendance. Discover how building strong attendance begins with establishing personal relationships and a culture of engaging academic success. Participants will leave this interactive session armed with fresh perspectives, measurable goals, and a solid blueprint moving forward for their school and district.

Speakers

Dr. Roger C. Guevara

ERZ Director / Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership, Southern Arkansas University

Reach out to me to discuss:
1) Enhancing attendance and combating chronic absenteeism
2) Doctoral program at Southern Arkansas University
3) District-Level Educational Leadership
4) Campus-Level Educational Leadership
5) Arkansas Education Renewal Zones
6) School Improvement Plans
7) Yo... Read More →

Dr. James Gibbens

Educational Leadership Program Director, Southern Arkansas University

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)

12:20pm CDT

Helena-West Helena: From Failing to Successful

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Hoffman (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

This co‑presented session tells the authentic story of a school district once designated as F‑rated and the deliberate leadership actions that set it on a new trajectory toward improvement and sustainability. Through the combined perspectives of a sitting superintendent and a state leadership development coach, participants will examine how clear vision, disciplined systems, and aligned leadership practices can drive meaningful change—even under intense accountability pressure.

Speakers

Dr. Xavier M. Hodo, Sr.

Superintendent, Helena - West Helena School District

Dr. John M. West, Jr.

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Hoffman (M)

12:20pm CDT

Teacher-Centered Leadership: Practical Strategies for Culture Building

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Pope (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will focus on how empowering teacher leaders and elevating teacher voice can strengthen school culture and drive meaningful, sustainable change. Participants will explore practical structures for incorporating teacher leadership into goal setting, decision-making, and the implementation of new initiatives. The presentation will highlight real-world strategies for building trust, increasing staff ownership, and aligning campus goals with classroom realities. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to create a collaborative leadership model that supports innovation while maintaining a strong, positive school culture.

Speakers

Dr. Michelle Miller

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Pope (SCC)

12:20pm CDT

We Know the Why and What of a PLC, But the Difference Is in the How

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT

Grampas (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

With so many presentations focusing on why schools need to become a PLC, and what they are, my proposal is a “nuts and bolts” active participant session where the focus will be on “How” to build high performing teams quickly utilizing the PLC process. This will give any administrator, or guiding coalition, an authentic experience on how to implement a PLC. Specifically, the focus will be on how to create norms that work, agendas that track, table talk roles for building high functioning teams, and a process (unpacking documents, cycle of inquiry checklist, example CFA’s aligned to unpacked standards, and an example of how to leverage Google to stay organized and build transparency) that focuses on the 4 questions in a way that makes sense so teams quickly move from “forming” to giving high quality CFA’s, and learn effective strategies from each other, and start real tier 2 intervention in months and not years.

Speakers

Justin Rasnick

Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Grampas (MCC)

1:20pm CDT

Durable Skills for CTE Pathways - What Does This Mean For My District?

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 4

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Yell I-II (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

The newly revised CTE Pathways for the 2026-2027 school year includes a focus on durable skills such as problem-solving and communication that are essential across all career fields. Come hear from DCTE on what this will look like in your district.

Presider

Shantelle Raper

Assistant Superintendent, Rivercrest School District

Speakers

Ross White

State Career and Technical Education Director, Arkansas Department of Education

Ross White, director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), has served as the state CTE director since May 2021, bringing extensive experience in secondary and statewide CTE leadership. He has led the update of the state Perkins V plan, the implementation of Success Ready Gradu... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)

Company AACTEA

1:20pm CDT

Lighting the Way: Renaissance Intelligence for Unified Curriculum, Instruction, and Data

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Salon B (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Renaissance Intelligence is the first and only Education Intelligence System that unifies assessment, instruction, practice, and curriculum alignment into one cohesive experience—powered by adaptive, contextual, educator-guided AI. This isn't AI that piles on more steps—it's intelligence embedded into what teachers already do, bringing personalization, efficiency, and fidelity to every classroom. In this session, participants will see how Renaissance Intelligence brings together systems district leaders have spent years trying to coordinate—reducing fragmentation, providing real-time instructional guidance, and delivering immediate visibility into student performance. No matter where your district is on its improvement journey, Renaissance Intelligence can illuminate the path forward. Participants will hear directly from districts preparing to implement this fall and learn how they're leveraging Renaissance Intelligence to support coherent instruction and accelerate student achievement.

Speakers

Dr. Dave Maddock

National Academic Advisor, Renaissance Learning

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon B (M)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Rigor on Demand: Micro-Challenges That Make Kids Think

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Neosho (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

When time is short and materials are limited, “rigor” often turns into more worksheets instead of better thinking. This session shows how to convert any standard or objective into a high-engagement micro-challenge using only paper, pencil, and a timer—while keeping topics community-safe and student anxiety low. Participants will experience three fast structures (argument, design, and reasoning), then leave with a simple planning template and a ready-to-use menu of micro-challenges they can run tomorrow.

Speakers

Adam Robison

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Neosho (MCC)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

When "Meaningful Access" Isn't Actually Meaningful: Leadership Moves to Make Co-Teaching Work for Multilingual Learners

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 4

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Manning (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Providing meaningful access to grade-level instruction is a central expectation for inclusive schools serving multilingual learners and students with disabilities, yet in many classrooms, the presence of two teachers does not always translate into true participation, language development, or equitable learning opportunities for students. This session examines the gap between the intention of meaningful access and the realities of classroom practice. Drawing on practitioner research focused on co-teaching for multilingual learners with disabilities, participants will explore common challenges that prevent co-teaching from fully supporting student access, including unclear instructional roles, limited attention to academic language, and structural barriers within school systems. Through classroom scenarios and guided discussion, school leaders will consider how leadership decisions, such as scheduling, collaborative planning structures, and expectations for language development across content areas, influence the effectiveness of co-teaching models. Participants will explore practical leadership moves that administrators can implement to strengthen instructional partnerships and ensure multilingual learners experience genuine access to rigorous learning. By the end of the session, participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how leadership structures influence inclusive practices and with concrete strategies for supporting co-teaching teams in ways that promote meaningful participation, language development, and academic success for multilingual learners.

Presider

JD Coursey

Principal, Alma School District

Speakers

Dr. Shawna Shields

Rogers Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Manning (M)

Company AAMLA

1:20pm CDT

Partnering for Success: State Classroom Inspections & Support

Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 4

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Chicot (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session provides educators, administrators, and school staff with a comprehensive understanding of state classroom inspections and how they serve as a tool for growth and improvement rather than just oversight. Participants will learn about the inspection process, key focus areas, and best practices for preparing their classrooms while fostering a positive and collaborative relationship with inspectors.

Presider

Raymond Reynolds

Speakers

Travis Spence

Senior Area Project Manager, Arkansas Dept of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)

Company ASPMA

1:20pm CDT

Critical Conversations

Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 4

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Conway (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session equips administrators with practical strategies for initiating and navigating critical conversations with staff, while also establishing consistent documentation practices that protect both the employee and the district. Participants will explore best practices for delivering clear, honest feedback, maintaining professionalism under pressure, and creating documentation that is accurate, timely, and defensible.

Speakers

Tanya Sharp

Bentonville Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Conway (MCC)

Company ArkASPA

1:20pm CDT

Newcomers: A Year in the Life of a Federal Coordinator and Getting the Best ROI of Your Funding Dollars

Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 4

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Izard (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Federal program coordinators quickly learn that managing federal funds is not just about compliance, it is about strategy, planning, and making decisions that have the greatest impact on students while staying within complex regulations and timelines. This session will walk participants through a "Year in the Life of a Federal Coordinator," highlighting key deadlines, required tasks, and planning points from July through June. Presenters will share practical systems for managing the constant requests for funding, staying on budget, and ensuring funds are used effectively to support student outcomes. Participants will learn how to shift their mindset from "funding the plan" to "planning the fund," a concept shared at a recent national ESEA conference, and how this approach leads to better return on investment and fewer budget surprises. This session is designed especially for new federal coordinators and administrators who oversee federal programs, and will include timelines, planning tools, and real-world strategies that can be implemented immediately.

Participants will leave with:
- A month-by-month overview of federal program responsibilities
- Strategies for budgeting and avoiding common funding pitfalls
- Tools for prioritizing requests and improving return on investment
- Practical ideas for planning ahead to reduce stress and last-minute spending

Speakers

Susan Gilley

Executive Director, Harrison School District

Christine Harrell

Director of Federal Programs, Searcy Public School District

Marcy Dugger

Federal Programs Director, Bald Knob Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Izard (SCC)

Company AAFC

1:20pm CDT

The Invisible Decisions: How School Business Choices Quietly Shape Student Outcomes During Declining Enrollment

Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 4

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Miller (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session looks at how school systems are actually held together through decisions about finance, facilities, staffing, technology, and risk. It uses a simple systems lens to show how these pieces connect and how they shape what a student’s day feels like in real, practical ways. The focus is not on compliance or reporting, but on how business and finance decisions create the conditions for stable, predictable learning environments. A central theme of the session is declining enrollment and why it changes the rules of the game. Fewer students do not automatically mean fewer costs. Buildings, transportation systems, contracts, and long-term assets do not shrink at the same pace as revenue.

Speakers

Ashten Black

Pam McCammon

CFO, Greenbrier Public Schools

AASBO Board President, School Finance Officer Certification, Master’s Degree in Accounting, Greenbrier School District -16 years

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Miller (SCC)

Company AASBO

1:20pm CDT

Keeping Kids Safe in Our AI World

Instructional Technology, Breakout Session 4

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Pope (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Artificial intelligence, social media, and rapidly evolving digital platforms are reshaping the online environments where students learn, communicate, and socialize. This session equips school administrators with the knowledge and tools needed to help protect students and staff in today’s complex digital landscape. Participants will explore how child and adolescent brain development influences online behavior and risk-taking, while examining emerging threats, including dangerous apps, AI deepfakes, AI companion bots, gaming risks, cell phone misuse, and sextortion.

Speakers

Dr. Robin Finley

CEO, TeachingTIME/TasselTIME

Dr. Robin Finley is starting her 38th year as an educator in Arkansas. She has been a teacher, coach, athletic director, counselor, building and district administrator, adjunct professor, and Digital Learning Coordinator at DESE. She has helped schools across the state learn to... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Pope (SCC)

Company AASSP

1:20pm CDT

Adding It All Up: The Administrator’s Guide to Accelerated Math

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 4

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Grampas (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Join Rogers Public School District Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Education Mr. Charles Lee, Director of Advanced Programs Mr. Dustin Seaton, and District Math Specialist Erin McCain as they present their district's plan for middle school math acceleration. Learn how to accelerate students the right way—without skipping essential "power" standards—while ensuring data is at the heart of every decision made.

Speakers

Charles Lee

Assistant Superintendent, Rogers Public Schools

Dustin Seaton

Director of Advanced Programs, Rogers Public Schools

Erin McCain

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Grampas (MCC)

Company AAGEA

1:20pm CDT

"D4" Ways To Deescalate Conflict

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Harris Brake (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

During this session, participants will hear from two educators who bring a combined 50 years of experience as teachers and administrators. They will actively engage the audience while sharing practical strategies to help leaders navigate conflict, defuse challenging situations, and reduce stress when working with difficult parents or staff.

While the topic is serious, the presentation will maintain a light-hearted tone, incorporating humor and interactive elements—such as role-playing—to keep participants engaged and involved.

Speakers

Mr. Stacy DeFoor

Assistant Superintendent, Sheridan School District

Stacy DeFoor serves as the Assistant Superintendent of Support Services for the Sheridan School District. In this role, he oversees Human Resources, Transportation, Facilities, Technology, Novice Teacher Support, and School Safety.
With 19 years of experience in education and 17 years of management and supervisory experience in the private sector, Mr. DeFoor brings a diverse leadership background to his work. His broad range of experiences enables him to effectively support building administrators, teacher... Read More →

Stephanie DeFoor

Principal, Greenbrier School District

With 31 years of experience in education, including 8 years in administration, I am passionate about building strong relationships that foster student success and positive school cultures. I believe meaningful connections with students, staff, and parents are at the heart of effective... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)

1:20pm CDT

Merit Pay in Mena: Development of an In-District System

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Arkansas Ballroom (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Learn about the development of an in-house merit pay system with connections to instruction, professional growth, and VAM. Mena School District is thinking and working outside the box with educator growth, recruitment, and retention, all while maintaining a focus on student growth and outcomes.

Speakers

Dr. Lee Smith

Superintendent, Mena Public Schools

Dr. Lee Smith is the Superintendent of Mena Public Schools in Arkansas, where he leads with a mission to deinstitutionalize public education and create human-centered systems that empower students and educators alike. With nearly three decades of experience spanning classroom instruction... Read More →

Bridget Buckley

Assistant Superintendent, Mena School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)

Company AASA

1:20pm CDT

Own Your Growth. Fuel Student Success: Creating Meaningful Access in High School

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Hoffman (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Meaningful access begins when educators take ownership of their growth and commit to systems that support all learners. This session explores how high schools can build practices that ensure students with lower cognitive abilities have authentic access to general education environments, while also ensuring students ready for enrichment have opportunities to stretch, challenge themselves, and excel. Participants will learn practical strategies for preparing all educators and staff, implementing grading practices that reflect growth and opportunity, and designing master schedules that expand access.
Attendees will leave with actionable ideas to strengthen collaboration, build staff confidence and ownership, and create a culture where every student and educator can grow and succeed.

Speakers

Sarah Merayo

Assistant Principal, Bentonville School District

Lisa Overstreet

Assistant Dir of Special Services, Bentonville Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Hoffman (M)

1:20pm CDT

The Leadership Balancing Act: Where Hard Work Meets Heart Work

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Riverview (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Leadership is a constant balancing act. Effective school leaders must confront difficult issues with clarity and accountability while also creating a culture where students and staff feel valued, energized, and connected. Strong schools require both courage and connection because leadership is not about choosing between the hard work and the heart work. It is learning how to lead with both. In this session, participants will gain practical strategies for strengthening instructional and professional accountability while also exploring engaging ways to build positive culture through community partnerships, High Five Fridays, and meaningful staff and student celebrations.

Speakers

Shavon Jackson

Principal, Russellville School District

Nancy Madison

3rd Grade Teacher / Building Learning Coordinator, Russellville School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Riverview (MCC)

Company AAESP

1:20pm CDT

Thriving in Tough Moments: Tools for Navigating Conflict

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Salon C (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

In this engaging and practical session, senior executive and longtime educator Dana Lamb will unpack a series of proven, effective, and easy-to-implement tools for handling conflict with heart. Drawing from more than 20 years in the classroom and 20 years with Capturing Kids’ Hearts, Dana brings real stories, relatable examples, and the kind of wisdom that helps leaders stay centered when moments get tough.

Speakers

Dana Lamb

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon C (M)

1:20pm CDT

Vision to Impact: Igniting Leadership from Within

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Caraway I-III (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Leadership potential is not defined by a title, but by the ability to influence, support others, and drive growth. Participants will learn how to identify emerging leaders and intentionally develop their capacity through meaningful opportunities and mentorship. Grounded in transformational leadership, this session highlights how investing in people strengthens both student achievement and the quality of staff. Great leadership does not just happen. It is developed with purpose.

Speakers

Dr. Marcia Smith

Professor of Practice - Educational Leadership, University of Arkansas

Dr. Marcia Smith, the former Deputy Superintendent for Springdale Schools, is stepping into a new role as a professor of practice at the University of Arkansas. She earned a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Arkansas, a Specialist degree in Educational Administration... Read More →

Dr. Christy Smith

Assistant Professor of Practice, University of Arkansas

Little did I know when I retired in 2016 after 28 years as an Arkansas teacher, principal, and LEA supervisor the best job I have ever had was waiting just around the corner. My current role as an Assistant Professor of Practice at the University of Arkansas' Educational Leadership... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)

Company AACIA

1:20pm CDT

What Every District Leader Should Ask Their Technology Director to Protect Students and District Assets

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Drew (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

District leaders are responsible for student safety, instructional continuity, and the protection of sensitive information, but many of the decisions that shape these outcomes are deeply technical. This session equips superintendents and administrators with the insight needed to engage effectively with their Technology Directors, surface the right conversations, and strengthen alignment around risk, resources, and resilience.

Speakers

Ray Girdler

IT Infrastructure Architect, Arkansas Department of Shared Administrative Services (SAS) Office of State Technology (OST)

Ray Girdler serves as an IT Infrastructure Architect within the Arkansas State Cybersecurity Office. Prior to this role, he spent several years at the Arkansas Department of Education before transitioning to the Arkansas Office of State Technology. During his time at the Department... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Drew (SCC)

Company TEL-AR

1:20pm CDT

When School Boards Disagree: Arkansas Data and Practical Strategies for District Leaders

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Ouachita (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will share findings from a study of Arkansas school board voting patterns, including divided votes, failed motions, and the issues that most often produce disagreement. Results will also explore how board conflict may be associated with district academic performance. Practical strategies will be provided for district leaders to reduce unnecessary conflict, encourage productive disagreement that leads to better governance, and maintain effective board–superintendent relationships that support student success.

Speakers

Matthew White

School Leadership Programs Coordinator; Assistant Professor, University of Central Arkansas

Dr. Rick Gales

Mayflower School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Ouachita (MCC)

1:20pm CDT

You Need to Calm Down: Staying Professional When Advocates & Attorneys Enter the Room (Repeat)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT

Fulton (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

The work of school personnel focuses on students, instruction, and daily responsibilities. When an advocate or attorney unexpectedly attends a meeting, it can feel intimidating, create emotional distress, and even derail the intended purpose of the meeting. Without preparation, staff may react defensively, lose focus, or unintentionally escalate tensions. This presentation provides strategies for maintaining professionalism, composure, and confidence in these difficult situations. The presenters refer to a familiar song about not letting others rattle you to serve as a lighthearted but effective anchor point for serious professional development about responding with calm, controlled energy and remaining focused on student success.

Speakers

Natalie Gosdin

Special Education Director, Searcy School District

Haley Hatch

Special Education Director, Pea Ridge School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Fulton (SCC)

Company AASEA

2:50pm CDT

Durable Skills for CTE Pathways - What Does This Mean For My District? (Repeat)

Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 5

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Yell I-II (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Presider

Shantelle Raper

Assistant Superintendent, Rivercrest School District

Speakers

Ross White

State Career and Technical Education Director, Arkansas Department of Education

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)

Company AACTEA

2:50pm CDT

Unlock the Full Potential of Your School Facilities

Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 5

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Chicot (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Learn how the Certified Facilities Director certification program offered by ASPMA improves operations, cuts costs, and enhances learning environments. The CFD program equips district facilities teams to maximize building efficiency and lifespan, ensure safety and regulatory compliance, and strategically plan and optimize resources.

Speakers

Raymond Reynolds

Mike Mertens

Consultant, AAEA

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)

Company ASPMA

2:50pm CDT

HR Basics for Principals & Supervisors

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Conway (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Principals and supervisors deal with people issues every day, and many of those situations carry important legal and professional responsibilities. This session focuses on the HR basics every leader needs to know to handle common employee matters with confidence and good judgment. We will discuss warning signs related to FMLA and ADA, mandated reporting requirements, ethics expectations, and practical approaches to employee time and attendance concerns. The goal is to give campus and department leaders straightforward guidance they can actually use, helping them support employees, protect students, avoid common missteps, and recognize when it’s time to bring HR into the conversation.

Speakers

Chris Davis

Assistant Superintendent, Fort Smith Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Conway (MCC)

Company ArkASPA

2:50pm CDT

Mastering the Maze: Navigating FOIA and Legal Requests, Technical Strategy Meets Legal Compliance (Repeat)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Drew (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Paul Miller

Support Staff, Springdale Schools

Kendra Clay

General Counsel, Springdale Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Drew (SCC)

Company TEL-AR

2:50pm CDT

Newcomers: A Year in the Life of a Federal Coordinator and Getting the Best ROI of Your Funding Dollars (Repeat)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Izard (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Susan Gilley

Executive Director, Harrison School District

Christine Harrell

Director of Federal Programs, Searcy Public School District

Marcy Dugger

Federal Programs Director, Bald Knob Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Izard (SCC)

Company AAFC

2:50pm CDT

The Invisible Decisions: How School Business Choices Quietly Shape Student Outcomes During Declining Enrollment (Repeat)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Miller (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Ashten Black

Pam McCammon

CFO, Greenbrier Public Schools

AASBO Board President, School Finance Officer Certification, Master’s Degree in Accounting, Greenbrier School District -16 years

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Miller (SCC)

Company AASBO

2:50pm CDT

AI Showcase: Highlighting Different AI Platforms

Instructional Technology, Breakout Session 5

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Pope (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

What are the unique features of several of the popular AI platforms? This session reviews practical AI tools that support lesson planning, curriculum design, grading, and student engagement. Participants will explore platforms such as ChatGPT, Gemini, MagicSchool, Eduaide, Knowt, Brisk, Curipod, and more, if time allows. Participants will consider AI policies and Arkansas ACT 754 regarding student use and data privacy requirements.

Speakers

Dr. Robin Finley

CEO, TeachingTIME/TasselTIME

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Pope (SCC)

Company AASSP

2:50pm CDT

Adding It All Up: The Administrator’s Guide to Accelerated Math (Repeat)

Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 5

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Grampas (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Charles Lee

Assistant Superintendent, Rogers Public Schools

Dustin Seaton

Director of Advanced Programs, Rogers Public Schools

Erin McCain

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Grampas (MCC)

Company AAGEA

2:50pm CDT

Building Instructional Systems That Drive Student Growth

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Hoffman (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

School leaders often recognize the importance of using data to guide instruction, but many struggle with building systems that consistently translate data into improved student outcomes. This session will focus on how instructional leaders can design and implement structures that support teacher collaboration, data-driven decision making, and targeted intervention in both middle and high school settings.

Participants will explore practical strategies for creating effective instructional leadership teams, implementing short data cycles, strengthening RTI systems, and coaching teachers to respond to student learning needs. The session will include real examples of how these systems were implemented to increase student growth, strengthen instruction, and improve overall academic performance.

Attendees will leave with actionable ideas and leadership strategies they can immediately apply in their own middle or high school to build strong instructional systems and drive student success.

* These systems were used to support a school improvement effort that increased overall student performance, letter grade from a C to a B and strengthened instructional alignment across departments.

Speakers

DarShauna Shepherd

Founding Principal, IOTA Leadership Academy

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Hoffman (M)

2:50pm CDT

Leading District Improvement

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Salon B (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Step into the year with clarity and momentum. This session highlights practical strategies for leading district‑wide improvement efforts, building trust quickly, and identifying the right levers for early wins. Perfect for district administrators ready to make a meaningful impact from day one.

Speakers

Hope Worsham

Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability, Arkansas Department of Education

Brooke McCain

Director of Monitoring and Accreditation, Arkansas Department of Education

Brooke McCain is a leading expert in accreditation and monitoring, with a passion for district improvement, recognized for equipping school leaders with the practical tools needed to manage compliance and drive real results. Heading Arkansas’s on-site monitoring and accreditation... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Salon B (M)

Company DESE

2:50pm CDT

Let 'Em Know: Old School Skills for New School Challenges

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Manning (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Difficult conversations are a vital part of working in education, whether with students, parents, colleagues, or staff. From addressing academic concerns and behavior issues to navigating sensitive topics and differing perspectives, educators are often called to lead conversations that require both honesty and care. This presentation focuses on equipping educators with practical tools to approach these moments with confidence, professionalism, and empathy. Participants will explore strategies for active listening, de-escalation, and clear communication, while learning how to maintain positive relationships even in challenging situations. By strengthening these skills, educators can turn difficult conversations into opportunities to build trust, support student success, and foster a collaborative school culture.

Presider

Dr. Dondre Harris

Principal, Bryant Schools

Speakers

Preston Echols

Director Of Student Services, Conway Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Manning (M)

Company AAMLA

2:50pm CDT

Merit Pay in Mena: Development of an In-District System (Repeat)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Arkansas Ballroom (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Dr. Lee Smith

Superintendent, Mena Public Schools

Bridget Buckley

Assistant Superintendent, Mena School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)

Company AASA

2:50pm CDT

Read the Room, Lead the Room: Unlocking the Hidden Language of Communication

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Neosho (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Have you ever walked into a meeting and sensed the room’s mood before anyone spoke? Effective leadership requires more than strong plans and data; it requires understanding how communication is received in real time.

Many administrators focus on what they say, but the way messages are delivered often shapes trust, engagement, and buy-in. Grounded in Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication by Vanessa Van Edwards, this session explores how body language, vocal delivery, and verbal patterns function as a “hidden language” that influences leadership presence in schools.

Participants will learn practical, research-based strategies to recognize communication cues, project confidence, build trust, and strengthen influence during meetings, presentations, and daily interactions. Administrators will leave with immediately usable tools to communicate with intention and support positive organizational impact.

Speakers

Judy Pennington

Director of Human Resources, Fort Smith Public Schools

Key Values: Improvement, Levity, Clarity, and Family. :)

Sarah Monfee

Director of Secondary Curriculum and Instruction, Russellville School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Neosho (MCC)

2:50pm CDT

Signaling Change: AI and School Communication

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Salon C (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

SchoolCEO's newest research uncovers how AI is reshaping the roles of school leaders. This session explores how artificial intelligence can free leaders from administrative overwhelm—automating routine tasks, crafting personalized communications, and giving leaders back precious time for the work that truly matters: supporting students and staff. But transformation requires wisdom. Participants will navigate the real challenges together: safeguarding data privacy, ensuring security, and building a culture where every team member feels confident with new tools. Participants will leave equipped to champion AI adoption that empowers their people, cut through the hype, and bring even the skeptics on board. This isn't about chasing technology—it's about reclaiming time and amplifying impact.

Speakers

Greg Turchetta

Strategic Communications Advisor, Apptegy

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Salon C (M)

2:50pm CDT

The Leadership Balancing Act: Where Hard Work Meets Heart Work (Repeat)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Riverview (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Shavon Jackson

Principal, Russellville School District

Nancy Madison

3rd Grade Teacher / Building Learning Coordinator, Russellville School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Riverview (MCC)

Company AAESP

2:50pm CDT

Tiers to Distinction: Building Support for All Teachers

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Ouachita (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Most existing teacher support models are reactive, only intervening after performance issues arise. Imagine, instead, a system where exceptional performance is a structured journey and comprehensive support is a universal right. This session will introduce a powerful, four-level framework designed to shift school culture from one of monitoring ("surveillance") to one of continuous, "sustained improvement."

We will delve into a model that starts with a robust, school-wide Tier 1 Foundation. This tier provides consistent instructional standards and guaranteed collaborative support for every staff member. From there, the framework progresses through targeted and intensive intervention levels. The system culminates in the Distinguished Tier, a space created to empower high-performing educators to innovate, lead, and shape best practices.

Participants will receive a practical blueprint to audit their current support structures and a clear roadmap for implementing a system that respects every teacher's current skills while intentionally guiding them toward distinction.

Speakers

Mr. John Unger

Superintendent, West Fork School District

Andrea Ward

Assistant Superintendent, West Fork School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Ouachita (MCC)

2:50pm CDT

Vision to Impact: Igniting Leadership from Within (Repeat)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Caraway I-III (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Dr. Marcia Smith

Professor of Practice - Educational Leadership, University of Arkansas

Dr. Christy Smith

Assistant Professor of Practice, University of Arkansas

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)

Company AACIA

2:50pm CDT

Waiting on Info

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Salon A (M)

Limited Capacity seats available

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Salon A (M)

2:50pm CDT

Wired for Success: Building Executive Function Skills to Boost Learning and Belonging

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Harris Brake (MCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

How can schools improve behavior and academic outcomes for all students while providing targeted support for those in the bottom quartile?

We’ll share our two-year journey creating a trauma-informed, neuro-aligned school grounded in executive function, connection, and belonging. Rather than separating academics and behavior, we aligned executive functioning instruction to support both. Our schoolwide framework targets working memory, inhibitory control, and cognitive flexibility, reinforced through consistent language, routines, and expectations across classrooms.

This universal framework strengthened classroom culture for all students while intentionally scaffolding support for those who need it most. These skills strengthen focus, independence, and perseverance - especially for students who struggle with regulation, task completion, and stamina.

Participants will leave with practical, classroom-ready tools to:
*Strengthen executive function and self-regulation
*Build shared language and routines to support classroom culture
*Promote engagement, equity, and support for struggling learners

Speakers

Megan Strain

Courtney Gunter

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)

2:50pm CDT

You Need to Calm Down: Staying Professional When Advocates & Attorneys Enter the Room (Repeat)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT

Fulton (SCC)

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Natalie Gosdin

Special Education Director, Searcy School District

Haley Hatch

Special Education Director, Pea Ridge School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Fulton (SCC)