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2026 AAEA Summer Conference has ended
Monday, July 27
 

8:00am CDT

Registration Open
Monday July 27, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Caddo & Osage (SCC)

Monday July 27, 2026 8:00am - 5:00pm CDT
Caddo & Osage (SCC)

8:30am CDT

Bus Driver Training
Monday July 27, 2026 8:30am - 11:30am CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
Monday July 27, 2026 8:30am - 11:30am CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)

10:00am CDT

AHSAA Executive Meeting
Monday July 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
Monday July 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)

10:00am CDT

ESC Director Meeting
Monday July 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Riverview (MCC)
Monday July 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Riverview (MCC)

10:30am CDT

Pre-Conference Session: 3E Panel with AR Army National Guard
Monday July 27, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Salon B (M)

Speakers
AA

AR Army National Guard

Arkansas Army National Guard
Monday July 27, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Salon B (M)

11:00am CDT

1-3A Principal's Meeting
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Conway (MCC)
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Conway (MCC)

11:00am CDT

4A Principal's Meeting
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
White Oak (MCC)
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
White Oak (MCC)

11:00am CDT

5A Principal's Meeting
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)

11:00am CDT

6A Principal's Meeting
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Grampas (MCC)
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Grampas (MCC)

11:00am CDT

7A Principal's Meeting
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Chicot (MCC)
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Chicot (MCC)

11:00am CDT

AAMLA Group Meeting
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Fulton (SCC)

Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 11:30am CDT
Fulton (SCC)

11:00am CDT

Exhibit Hall Open
Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

Monday July 27, 2026 11:00am - 4:30pm CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

1:00pm CDT

Opening General Session
Monday July 27, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Wally Allen Ballroom (SCC)
Be a Coffee Bean: Hear the message that groups all over the country are implementing as their motto: Be A Coffee Bean! This presentation is designed for groups wanting to both motivate their attendees, as well as implement the vitally important message of the coffee bean, that the power to change any situation is within you, not in the outside forces around you. The culture of your group can be...
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Speakers
avatar for Damon West

Damon West

Our speaker today is a 4 time best-selling author. His story and the message of the coffee bean have been shared with thousands of audiences all over the world. USA Today calls him the “most in-demand speaker in America.”
2026 AAEA Retirees pdf
Monday July 27, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Wally Allen Ballroom (SCC)

3:00pm CDT

Visit Exhibitors
Monday July 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

Monday July 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

3:30pm CDT

AAA Governing Body Meeting
Monday July 27, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Wally Allen Ballroom (SCC)
Monday July 27, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Wally Allen Ballroom (SCC)

5:00pm CDT

Education Benefits Fish Fry
Monday July 27, 2026 5:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
Union Station - Next Level Events
Catfish, BBQ, Live Music, Raffles & More!
Round-Trip Shuttle Transportation Provided from Marriott to Union Station
Monday July 27, 2026 5:00pm - 10:00pm CDT
Union Station - Next Level Events 1400 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201
 
Tuesday, July 28
 

7:30am CDT

Breakfast Available and Visit Exhibitors
Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:30am - 9:00am CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

7:30am CDT

Exhibit Hall Open
Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:30am - 4:00pm CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:30am - 4:00pm CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

7:30am CDT

Registration Open
Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm CDT
Caddo & Osage (SCC)
Tuesday July 28, 2026 7:30am - 5:00pm CDT
Caddo & Osage (SCC)

8:30am CDT

General Session: Admin of the Year and DESE Updates
Tuesday July 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Wally Allen Ballroom (SCC)
Administrator of the Year Awards will be presented for AACIA, AAGEA, AASEA, and ArkASPA. Secretary Oliva will present the latest developments and updates in education across the state and provide information on the Department's ongoing efforts.
Speakers
avatar for Secretary Jacob Oliva

Secretary Jacob Oliva

Secretary of Education, Arkansas Department of Education
Jacob Oliva was appointed by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders as secretary of the Arkansas Department of Education and commissioner of the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education in 2023. A lifelong educator, Oliva played a key role in passing and implementing the LEARNS Act... Read More →
AAEA July 2026 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Wally Allen Ballroom (SCC)

9:45am CDT

Visit Exhibitors
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

9:45am CDT

Table Talk: Beyond Compliance: Creating Truly Engaged Classrooms
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Hall III - Table 5
Join a conversation about moving students from passive compliance to authentic engagement. Participants will discuss practical instructional strategies, meaningful learning experiences, and ways to design lessons that promote active thinking and student ownership.
Speakers
SL

Saundra Lamberson

Teacher Center Coordinator, Northeast Arkansas Education Cooperative
avatar for Emily Hemme

Emily Hemme

Mentoring Program Specialist, Northeast Arkansas Education Cooperative

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Hall III - Table 5
  AM Round Table Talks

9:45am CDT

Table Talk: Chronic Absenteeism: Strategies in Practice that Work
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Hall I - Table 1
Join a collaborative discussion on practical, research-based strategies for reducing chronic absenteeism. Participants will exchange ideas for building attendance teams, engaging stakeholders, and implementing systems that improve student attendance and overall achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Christie Cremo

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 →

Chronic Absenteeism pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Hall I - Table 1
  AM Round Table Talks

9:45am CDT

Table Talk: From Compliance to Clarity: How Success Criteria Transform Instruction and Culture
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Hall I - Table 4
Discuss how success criteria can make learning more visible while strengthening instruction and collaboration. Participants will share ideas for improving feedback, supporting differentiation, and building a common instructional language across teams.
Speakers
CB
avatar for Katie Camargo

Katie Camargo

Greenbrier Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Hall I - Table 4
  AM Round Table Talks

9:45am CDT

Table Talk: Leading for Growth: A Schoolwide PGP that Motivates Teachers
Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Hall IV - Table 3
Explore how aligning Professional Growth Plans with TESS can create a culture focused on teacher growth instead of compliance. This roundtable will encourage participants to share strategies for goal-setting, coaching, and supporting continuous instructional improvement.
Speakers
DJ
avatar for Dr. Susanna Post

Dr. Susanna Post

Assistant Principal, Southside High School, Fort Smith Public Schools
Before being named the 2021 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Susanna taught mathematics and business courses for grades 7–12 at Belle Point Alternative Center in Fort Smith. Following her year of service as Arkansas Teacher of the Year, she served as the district's Secondary Math Coordinator... Read More →

Tuesday July 28, 2026 9:45am - 10:15am CDT
Governor's Hall IV - Table 3
  AM Round Table Talks

10:15am CDT

From Alignment to Impact: Strengthening Instruction for Student Success
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Ouachita (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Gina Richard

Gina Richard

Assistant Superintendent, Star City School District
TC

Thea Capps

Literacy Curriculum Specialist, CALT, Star City Schools
HG

Heather Gonzalez

Curriculum Specialist, CALT, Star City Schools
JH

Jan Hill

K-5 Math Curriculum Specialist, Star City Schools
avatar for Whitney Dutton

Whitney Dutton

Assistant Principal, Star City High School
BW

Britnee Wright

Star City School District
SCSD Conference pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Ouachita (MCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

From Creating Opportunity to Creating Coherence: The Work in Front of Rural Education
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Justin Neel

Justin Neel

Principal, Caddo Hills Schools
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.
avatar for Dr. Austin D. Eubanks

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 →
Eubanks AAEA 2026 Deck pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)
  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
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Grampas (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Charles Lee

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 →
avatar for Dr. Kristy Brown

Dr. Kristy Brown

Assistant Superintendent, Rogers Public Schools
avatar for Dustin Seaton

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 →
avatar for Tina McClure

Tina McClure

Director of Secondary Academic Counseling, Rogers Public Schools
I currently serve as the Director of Secondary Academic Counseling for Rogers Public Schools. The majority of my career has been rooted in high school counseling, providing a deep understanding of student development and systemic support. In my current district leadership role, I... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Grampas (MCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Leading with Purpose: Teacher Growth & Professional Learning
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Salon C (M)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Adam Eckard

Dr. Adam Eckard

Assistant Principal, Jonesboro Public Schools
Dr. Adam Eckard serves as the Assistant Principal of School Improvement at Douglas MacArthur Junior High School in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Previously, he served as the Assistant Principal of Student Services at Health, Wellness and Environmental Studies Magnet School in Jonesboro. In... Read More →
avatar for Mandy Zipfel

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 →
avatar for Angela Murphy

Angela Murphy

Jonesboro Public Schools
STEM Instructional Coach, Jonesboro Leadership Magnet School
avatar for Harry Dickens

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 →
avatar for Alice Shirey

Alice Shirey

Arkansas Sales Consultant, Curriculum Associates - i-Ready

AAEA Presentation pdf
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)
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...
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Speakers
VH

Veronica Hebard

District-Level Staff or Administrator (e.g., superintendent, Chief Academic Officer, professional learning coordinator,, MAYFLOWER SCHOOL DISTRICT
avatar for Modern Classrooms Project

Modern Classrooms Project

Learn more about how we can support sustainable differentiation for your math classrooms. Grant funding available.

Sophia Kor, Partner Engagement Manager [email protected]
AAEA 2026 Summer Conference MCP & Mayflower Presentation pdf
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
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Salon A (M)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Hope Worsham

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 →
The Two Lenses of Growth (1) (1) (1) pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Salon A (M)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Building It Right: Legal Requirements, Partnership Funding, and Public Bidding
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Chicot (MCC)
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...
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Presider
CH

Cedric Hawkins, Ed.D.

Deputy Superintendent, West Memphis School District
Speakers
avatar for Travis Spence

Travis Spence

Senior Area Project Manager, Arkansas Dept of Education
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Chicot (MCC)
  Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

From Compliance to Confidence: Implementing Behavioral Threat Assessments with Clarity and Protection
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Pope (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Bekah Coursey

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 →
BS
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Pope (SCC)
  Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 1

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS) - Stacey McPherson

The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS) - Stacey McPherson

G4, The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS)
TIPS is a leading purchasing cooperative offering members access to competitively priced purchasing contracts leveraging the purchase power of over 13,000 member agencies nationwide.
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)
This session reviews the ethics disclosure rules for transactions involving employees, administrators, and school board members.
Speakers
avatar for Charles Warren

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)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Federal Updates
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Izard (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Kimberly Glass

Kimberly Glass

Director of Federal Programs, Springdale Public School District
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 →
avatar for Lea Metcalf-McDonald

Lea Metcalf-McDonald

Executive Director of Curriculum Instruction Professional Development, & Federal Programs, TASD
avatar for Amanda Bittle

Amanda Bittle

Federal Programs/Curriculum Coordinator, McGehee School District
Federal Updates AAEA Summer Conference 2026 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Izard (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

High Leverage Human Capital Strategies
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Conway (MCC)
This session will provide practical strategies to improve the functions of human capital management.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Tucker

Melissa Tucker

Assistant Superintendent, El Dorado School District
avatar for Greg Mones

Greg Mones

Executive Director of Fiscal and Human Resources, Fayetteville Public School District
Best Hiring Practices AAEA2026 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Conway (MCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 1

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)
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
avatar for Paul Miller

Paul Miller

Director of Technology, Springdale Schools
avatar for Kendra Clay

Kendra Clay

General Counsel, Springdale Public Schools
Mastering the MAZE pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Drew (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Pet Therapy in Schools?
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Hoffman (M)
Registered pet therapy teams from Central Arkansas Pet Partners will share their experiences visiting schools and discuss the training, testing, and registration process required for certification. Handlers will bring their therapy animals for a hands-on, interactive experience. The session will also include a question-and-answer discussion covering topics such as program logistics, insurance, and...
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Speakers
AG

Allan Gates

Pet Partners of Arkansas
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Hoffman (M)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

A Principal & Counselor’s Journey to School Improvement
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Manning (M)
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...
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Presider
avatar for David Yates

David Yates

Middle School Principal, Elkins School District
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Ashcraft

Jessica Ashcraft

School Counselor and Behavior Specialist, Sheridan School District
avatar for Dr. Heather Williams

Dr. Heather Williams

Director of School Support and Leadership, Sheridan School District
AAEA Presentation 72826 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Manning (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Building a Leadership Pipeline: Growing District Leaders from Within
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Mathew Thornton

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.
avatar for Blake Campbell

Blake Campbell

Assistant Superintendent, Lakeside School District
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Crisis Communications when Minutes Matter
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)
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
avatar for Dr. Jared Cleveland

Dr. Jared Cleveland

Superintendent, Springdale Public Schools
Looking forward to the conference!

avatar for Trent Jones

Trent Jones

Director of Communications and Community Engagement, Springdale School District

Crisis Communications for School Districts (Springdale Local Edition) (2) pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 1

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)
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
avatar for Shasta Wagner

Shasta Wagner

General Counsel, Conway Public Schools


avatar for Leila Seigrist

Leila Seigrist

General Counsel, Cabot Public Schools
CW
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Fulton (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 1

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Kelley Krogman

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 →
avatar for Josh Lyra

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 →
avatar for Ashley Hammett

Ashley Hammett

Director of Learning Services, Greenbrier Public Schools, Greenbrier Public Schools
I currently serve as the Director of Learning Services for Greenbrier Public Schools. Over the course of my career, I've had the opportunity to serve as a first-grade teacher, assistant principal, principal, dyslexia coordinator, and now district leader. Each of these roles has shaped... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

Mic Drop Session: Effective Leadership Strategies
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Riverview (MCC)
Elementary school administrators share brief presentations on leadership topics they are passionate about.
Presider
JH

Jennifer Harper

Elementary Principal, Paragould School District

Speakers
avatar for Justin Swope

Justin Swope

Principal, George Elementary School

Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Riverview (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 1

10:15am CDT

SHIFTing from Surviving to Thriving
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Neosho (MCC)
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
DB
JS
Tuesday July 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Neosho (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 1

11:30am CDT

Own It! Accountability in Instruction
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Dondre Harris

Dr. Dondre Harris

Principal, Bryant Middle School
Dr. Dondre Harris is an educator with Bryant Public Schools who is passionate about helping students learn, grow, and succeed through meaningful and engaging educational experiences. He values collaboration, continuous learning, and the thoughtful integration of technology to support... Read More →
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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Chrissy McNabb

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 →
avatar for Hope Worsham

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 →
CCFAL Summer Panel Session pdf
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
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Izard (SCC)
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
avatar for Christine Harrell

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 →
avatar for Amy Robson

Amy Robson

Federal Programs Coordinator, Flippin School District
Beyond Compliance AAEA Conference 2026 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Izard (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Hidden Savings in Sick Leave and PTO Payouts
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Salon C (M)
Large sick leave and PTO payouts can create significant payroll tax expenses for school districts. Learn how Special Pay Plans work, where potential savings come from, and what district leaders should consider when evaluating this increasingly popular strategy.
Speakers
BN
avatar for Jon Collins

Jon Collins

Business Development Director, Educational Benefits, Inc.
Regional Director for Business Development.  Providing supplemental insurance and benefits to school groups across Arkansas with first in class service and savings.
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Salon C (M)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 2

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)
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
avatar for Shasta Wagner

Shasta Wagner

General Counsel, Conway Public Schools


Transparency v. Confidentiality Navigating Executive Sessions and Personnel Records in Arkansas Schools pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Conway (MCC)
  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)
A virtual campus option that assists districts in retaining students, expands learning opportunities, offers flexible learning pathways, and strengthens public education.
Speakers
avatar for Tammy Manning

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 →
avatar for Brandi Williams

Brandi Williams

Instructional Coach, Virtual Academy at the River
avatar for Krystle Summers

Krystle Summers

Assistant Principal, The Virtual Academy at the River
Krystle Summers is a knowledgeable and approachable leader in the field of virtual education. With experience in instructional design, student engagement, and special education, she’s a trusted resource for practical strategies, meaningful collaboration, and ensuring success in... Read More →
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)
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...
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Speakers
SM
avatar for Dr. Julie Williams

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 →
avatar for Meredith Hendricks

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 →
FPS Woodland AAEA 7 28 2026 pdf
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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Justin Neel

Justin Neel

Principal, Caddo Hills Schools
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.
2026 Summer Conference pdf
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)
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...
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Speakers
SG

Sarah George

Principal, Nettleton
avatar for Dr. Mark Gotcher

Dr. Mark Gotcher

Executive Leadership Coach, Bailey Education Group

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for John Ashworth

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Shane Patrick

Shane Patrick

Superintendent, Siloam Springs School District
Shane Patrick is the Superintendent of the Siloam Springs School District and a veteran educator with more than three decades of experience in public education, leadership, coaching, and school administration. Throughout his career, he has championed student-centered practices, organizational... Read More →
avatar for Amy Carter

Amy Carter

Assistant Superintendent, Siloam Springs School District
avatar for Joe McClung

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)
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...
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Presider
avatar for Mark Lewis

Mark Lewis

Conway Public Schools (Retired)


Speakers
avatar for Kristen Weatherall

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 →
avatar for Dr. Dayna Lewis

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 →
AAEA Presentation (1) pdf
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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Alex Peterson

Alex Peterson

School Counselor, Hugh Goodwin
avatar for Brooklyn Graves

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)
This interactive session utilizes ice-breaker games and improv exercises to improve your communication skills and build a collaborative team.
Speakers
avatar for Charles Warren

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 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Miller (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 2

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)
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....
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Speakers
avatar for Christie Cremo

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 →
From Surviving to Thriving Reimagining School Culture pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
White Oak (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Future-Proofing Your Pipeline: The Paid Residency Blueprint
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr Jeremy Owoh

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 →
DJ
avatar for Rachel Eells

Rachel Eells

Windgate Endowed Director of the 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)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Operationalizing RTI: Aligning PLCs, Scheduling, and Student Needs
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Fulton (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Callie Sanchez

Callie Sanchez

Principal, Bentonville Schools
avatar for Danielle Renfroe

Danielle Renfroe

Assistant Principal, Bentonville Schools
avatar for Joe Herrington

Joe Herrington

Assistant Principal, Bentonville Schools
Copy of AAEA FJHS 2026 Operationalizing RTI pdf
AAEA Example Template for Spotlight Lessons pdf
AAEA Principals Journal.docx pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Fulton (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

School Based Intervention Team (SBIT) Come To The Table!
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
BK

Barbara Kirkpatrick

Principal, Forest Heights STEM Academy
PA
TT
LK
SBIT Come to the Table! pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Turning Leadership Vision into Measurable School Impact
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Manning (M)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Bethanie Hale
AAEA Turning Leadership Vision into Measurable School Impact (1) pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:15pm CDT
Manning (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 2

11:30am CDT

Lunch Available and Visit Exhibitors
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)

Speakers
avatar for Brandie Benton

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)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Is Your System Making an Impact?
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Manning (M)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Julie Workman

Dr. Julie Workman

Teacher Center Coordinator, Arch Ford ESC
avatar for Jacob Sisson

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 →
Final Audit Tool AAEA pdf
AAEA 7.28.26 Is Your System Making an Impact (1) pdf
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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Chip Greenwell

Chip Greenwell

Principal, Rogers Heritage High School
avatar for Adrienne Cooke

Adrienne Cooke

Assistant Principal, Rogers Public Schools
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)
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
avatar for Eric King

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)
When student data leaks, it isn't an IT problem—it's a superintendent's worst legal, financial, and PR nightmare. Join me to uncover the "Digital Ghost" strategy, a practical framework designed specifically for school leaders to permanently mask student identities and shield their districts from devastating data breaches. Don't leave your district's most vulnerable data exposed; learn the 3...
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Speakers
avatar for Johnny Ramsey

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
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Conway (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Manley

Amy Manley

Director of Recruitment and Retention, Fort Smith Public Schools
Hiring Is Only Beginning Retaining Arkansas Educators pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Conway (MCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Raising the Rigor: How Sheridan School District Uses CFAs
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Salon B (M)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Dave Maddock

Dr. Dave Maddock

National Academic Advisor, Renaissance Learning
Dr. Dave Maddock is a National Academic Advisor for Renaissance Learning. He has a broad range of experience as a teacher, coach, and administrator at various levels. He has overseen MTSS systems and school improvement planning, and was the director for a multi-million dollar USDOE... Read More →
DM
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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Brandi Hardcastle

Brandi Hardcastle

Searcy School District (Sidney Deener Elementary)
avatar for Bethany Philpot

Bethany Philpot

Principal, Searcy Public Schools
avatar for Heather Franks

Heather Franks

Principal, Searcy School District
avatar for Dr. Bobby Hart

Dr. Bobby Hart

Superintendent, Searcy SD
DR
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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Adam Brooks

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
MC
AAEA Digital Citizenship Playbook Helping Students Make Tech Work for Them~26 NCEdConnect Template pptx
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)
​​​​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...
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Speakers
avatar for Jill Heard

Jill Heard

Assessment Design Specialist, Virtual Arkansas
avatar for Rebecca Mills

Rebecca Mills

Curriculum and Instruction Specialist and AP Coordinator, Virtual Arkansas
avatar for Justin Howell

Justin Howell

Science Design Specialist, Virtual Arkansas
avatar for Brooke Suyal

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 →
(AAEA 2026) Unlocking Learning Introduction to the Science of Learning (Summit 2026) pdf
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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Dawn Childress

Dr. Dawn Childress

Principal of Cook Elementary, Fort Smith School District
Dr. Childress recently received Arkansas Master Principal Designation and 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... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Riverview (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Built of T.H.A.T.
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Fulton (SCC)
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. ...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Micheal Stone

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)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Chrissy McNabb

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 →
DK

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)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Doug Adams

Dr. Doug Adams

Superintendent, Vilonia S.D.
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Fiscal Leadership: Mastering the "Buckets" of School and District Finance
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Izard (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Mickey McFetridge

Dr. Mickey McFetridge

Director of Finance, Fayetteville
Fiscal Leadership AAEA July 2026 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Izard (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Roger C. Guevara

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 absenteeism2) Doctoral program at Southern Arkansas University3) District-Level Educational Leadership4) Campus-Level Educational Leadership5) Arkansas Education Renewal Zones6) School Improvement Plans7) Your... Read More →
avatar for Dr. James Gibbens

Dr. James Gibbens

Educational Leadership Program Director, Southern Arkansas University
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Helena-West Helena: From Failing to Successful
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Hoffman (M)
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...
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Speakers
DX

Dr. Xavier M. Hodo, Sr.

Superintendent, Helena - West Helena School District
avatar for Dr. John M. West, Jr.

Dr. John M. West, Jr.

OCSS Leadership Development Coach, DESE
John M. West, Ed.D. is a State Leadership Development Coach for the Arkansas Department of Education’s Office of Coordinated Support and Service. With over two decades of administrative experience at every level of K-12 education , he works alongside Arkansas district and building... Read More →
AAEA Radical Improvement for Sustainable Transformation AAEA Presentation pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Hoffman (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

Teacher-Centered Leadership: Practical Strategies for Culture Building
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Pope (SCC)
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,...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Michelle Miller

Dr. Michelle Miller

Principal, Fayetteville High School
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Pope (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

12:20pm CDT

The Art of the Controlled Meeting
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Miller (SCC)
This session offers advice on running meetings that are productive and informative, that are also controlled and efficient. 
Speakers
avatar for Charles Warren

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 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Miller (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

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)
With so many presentations focusing on why schools need to become a PLC, and what they are, my proposal is a “nuts and bolts” 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 essential...
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Speakers
avatar for Justin Rasnick

Justin Rasnick

Gentry School District
With 14 years in education I have had the opportunity to serve as a 7-12 Special Education teacher, Middle School Social Studies teacher, Special Education Supervisor, Assistant Principalships K-12, and Middle School Principal.  For the last 8 years of my administrative career I... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 12:20pm - 1:05pm CDT
Grampas (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 3

1:20pm CDT

Durable Skills for CTE Pathways - What Does This Mean For My District?
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)
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
avatar for Shantele Raper

Shantele Raper

Superintendent, Rivercrest School District

Speakers
avatar for Ross White

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)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Every Great Middle School Has a Story Worth Telling
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Manning (M)
Every Great Middle School Has a Story Worth TellingWhat if your school could be recognized as one of the nation's and Arkansas's premier middle schools while strengthening the learning experiences of every student you serve?The Schools to Watch® (STW®) Program recognizes and celebrates outstanding middle schools that are transforming the lives of...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Lynn Faught

Dr. Lynn Faught

Principal, McNair Middle School
Dr. Lynn Faught is an experienced educational leader at McNair Middle School, where they focus on creating supportive and effective learning environments for middle school students. With years of hands-on experience in the classroom and school leadership, Dr. Faught enjoys sharing... Read More →
JS
avatar for JD Coursey

JD Coursey

Principal, Alma School District
avatar for Stephanie Anderson

Stephanie Anderson

Assistant Principal, Fayetteville Public Schools
Hello,I have been a proud Arkansas Educator for 30 years. I have been involved with Arkansas Schools to Watch since 2008, and currently serve as Arkansas State Co-Director. Becoming an Arkansas School to Watch offers numerous benefits, including national recognition, access to best... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Manning (M)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 4

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Dave Maddock

Dr. Dave Maddock

National Academic Advisor, Renaissance Learning
Dr. Dave Maddock is a National Academic Advisor for Renaissance Learning. He has a broad range of experience as a teacher, coach, and administrator at various levels. He has overseen MTSS systems and school improvement planning, and was the director for a multi-million dollar USDOE... Read More →
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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Adam Robison

Adam Robison

GT Coordinator, Huntsville Public Schools
Adam Robison is an educator, leadership coach, entrepreneur, and founder of PressureSim Systems™, a decision-readiness platform that helps organizations prepare leaders to make better decisions under pressure.

With experience spanning education, leadership development, school safety, coaching, and organizational resilience, Adam has spent his career helping people navigate difficult situations with greater confidence, clarity, and effectiveness. He currently serves as a Gifted & Talented... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Neosho (MCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Partnering for Success: State Classroom Inspections & Support
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)
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...
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Presider
RR
Speakers
avatar for Travis Spence

Travis Spence

Senior Area Project Manager, Arkansas Dept of Education
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)
  Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Critical Conversations
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Conway (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Tanya Sharp

Tanya Sharp

Bentonville Schools
Leading Through Critical Conversations pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Conway (MCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Newcomers: A Year in the Life of a Federal Coordinator and Getting the Best ROI of Your Funding Dollars
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Izard (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Susan Gilley

Susan Gilley

Executive Director, Harrison School District
avatar for Christine Harrell

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 →
avatar for Marcy Dugger

Marcy Dugger

Federal Programs Director, Bald Knob Schools
Federal Coordinator Year in the Life pdf
Federal Coordinator Planner pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Izard (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

The Invisible Decisions: How School Business Choices Quietly Shape Student Outcomes During Declining Enrollment
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Miller (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Ashten Black

Ashten Black

CFO, Joneboro Public Schools
avatar for Pam McCammon

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)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Keeping Kids Safe in Our AI World
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Pope (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Robin Finley

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)
  Instructional Technology, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Adding It All Up: The Administrator’s Guide to Accelerated Math
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Grampas (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Charles Lee

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 →
avatar for Dustin Seaton

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 →
avatar for Erin McCain

Erin McCain

Secondary Math & Science Curriculum Specialist, Rogers Public Schools
Middle School Accelerated Math pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Grampas (MCC)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Every Arkansas Student Deserves a Military Pathway
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
White Oak (MCC)
LTC Scarborough
Speakers
AA

AR Army National Guard

Arkansas Army National Guard
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
White Oak (MCC)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

"D4" Ways To Deescalate Conflict
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Mr. Stacy DeFoor

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 →
avatar for Stephanie DeFoor

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 →
D4 Ways to De Escalate Conflict pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

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)
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
avatar for Dr. Lee Smith

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 →
BB

Bridget Buckley

Assistant Superintendent, Mena School District
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Sarah Merayo

Sarah Merayo

Assistant Principal, Bentonville West High School
avatar for Lisa Overstreet

Lisa Overstreet

Assistant Dir of Special Services, Bentonville Schools
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Hoffman (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Recharging the Evaluation Process for Growth
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon A (M)
We will explore key leadership actions that will ensure your team is ready to impact teacher growth.  An interactive session where participants will collaborate and leverage LEADS 2.0 to ensure school leaders are equipped to grow their teams to grow more teachers.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Gayle, NIET

Amy Gayle, NIET

Central Regional Director

Recharging the TESS Observation Process for Growth Participant Guide pdf
LEADS Principal Rubric.docx pdf
FILLABLE Recharging the TESS Observation Process for Growth Participant Guide pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon A (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

The Leadership Balancing Act: Where Hard Work Meets Heart Work
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Riverview (MCC)
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...
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Presider
avatar for Mark Lewis

Mark Lewis

Conway Public Schools (Retired)


Speakers
avatar for Shavon Jackson

Shavon Jackson

Principal, Russellville School District
avatar for Nancy Madison

Nancy Madison

3rd Grade Teacher / Building Learning Coordinator, Russellville School District
AAEA 2026 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Riverview (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Thriving in Tough Moments: Tools for Navigating Conflict
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon C (M)
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...
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Speakers
DL
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Salon C (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

1:20pm CDT

Vision to Impact: Igniting Leadership from Within
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Marcia Smith

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 →
avatar for Christy L. Smith

Christy L. Smith

Associate Professor of Practice, University of Arkansas
Dr. Christy Smith is an Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Arkansas. Prior to her University appointment, Dr. Smith worked for 28 years as a teacher, building principal and district administrator in Arkansas public schools. Her teaching and research interests involve... Read More →
Vision to Impact AAEA 2026 pdf
AAEA Handout 2026 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Ray Girdler

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)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Matthew White

Dr. Matthew White

Assistant Professor, University of Central Arkansas
Dr. Matthew White is an assistant professor at the University of Central Arkansas. A former Arkansas K-12 teacher and administrator, he now coordinates the building and district level leadership preparation programs at UCA. His research centers around school governance and effective... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Rick Gales

Dr. Rick Gales

Assistant Professor, University of Central Arkansas
Dr. Rick Gales is a faculty member in the University of Central Arkansas’s College of Education, Department of Leadership Studies, following a 25‑year career in K–12 public education. His professional background includes classroom teaching (grades 7–12), school administration... Read More →
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Ouachita (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Natalie Gosdin

Natalie Gosdin

Special Education Director, Searcy School District
avatar for Haley Hatch

Haley Hatch

Special Education Director, Pea Ridge School District
Tuesday July 28, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm CDT
Fulton (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

2:20pm CDT

Visit Exhibitors
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

2:20pm CDT

Table Talk: Grow Your Own: Building Leaders Who Stay, Lead, and Deliver
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Hall I - Table 4
Explore strategies for developing future leaders from within your organization through coaching, mentoring, and authentic leadership experiences. Participants will discuss practical approaches to building leadership capacity that strengthens schools over the long term.
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Sills

Andrew Sills

Chief of Staff, Searcy School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Hall I - Table 4
  PM Round Table Discussions

2:20pm CDT

Table Talk: Lead From Any Seat: Creating Impact Without a Title
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Hall IV - Table 3
Leadership is about influence, not position. This roundtable will explore ways educators at every level can build trust, inspire others, and create positive change within their schools and districts.
Speakers
avatar for Brad Coffman

Brad Coffman

Supervisor of Alternative Programs, Russellville School District

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Hall IV - Table 3
  PM Round Table Discussions

2:20pm CDT

Table Talk: Navigating Today's School Board Dynamics
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Hall III - Table 5
School board leadership has changed significantly over the years, bringing new expectations and unique challenges for district leaders. Join colleagues for an open discussion about effective communication, governance, and practical strategies for building strong working relationships that support student success.
Speakers
DB

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Hall III - Table 5
  PM Round Table Discussions

2:20pm CDT

Table Talk: That's CAP! Building Consistency, Accountability, and Practice
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Hall I - Table 1
Learn how the CAP framework—Consistency, Accountability, and Practice—can strengthen school culture and instructional effectiveness. This discussion will focus on practical leadership strategies for establishing clear expectations, supporting staff growth, and creating lasting schoolwide improvement.
Speakers
avatar for Marcus Jones

Marcus Jones

Jonesboro Public Schools

Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:20pm - 2:50pm CDT
Governor's Hall I - Table 1
  PM Round Table Discussions

2:50pm CDT

Durable Skills for CTE Pathways - What Does This Mean For My District? (Repeat)
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)
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
avatar for Shantele Raper

Shantele Raper

Superintendent, Rivercrest School District

Speakers
avatar for Ross White

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 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Unlock the Full Potential of Your School Facilities
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)
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
RR
avatar for Mike Mertens

Mike Mertens

Consultant, AAEA
Unlock the Full Potential of Your School Facilities pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Chicot (MCC)
  Facilities/Safety/Transportation, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

HR Basics for Principals & Supervisors
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Conway (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Chris Davis

Chris Davis

Assistant Superintendent, Fort Smith Public Schools
HR Basics for Principals and Supervisors AAEA 2026 pdf
HR Basics for Principals and Supervisors Handout AAEA 2026 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Conway (MCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 5

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)
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
avatar for Paul Miller

Paul Miller

Director of Technology, Springdale Schools
avatar for Kendra Clay

Kendra Clay

General Counsel, Springdale Public Schools
Mastering the MAZE pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Drew (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 5

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Susan Gilley

Susan Gilley

Executive Director, Harrison School District
avatar for Christine Harrell

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 →
avatar for Marcy Dugger

Marcy Dugger

Federal Programs Director, Bald Knob Schools
Federal Coordinator Year in the Life pdf
Federal Coordinator Planner pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Izard (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 5

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Ashten Black

Ashten Black

CFO, Joneboro Public Schools
avatar for Pam McCammon

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)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

AI Showcase: Highlighting Different AI Platforms
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Pope (SCC)
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, Gemini LM, Claude and Gems, and more, if time allows. Participants will consider AI policies and Arkansas ACT 754 regarding student use and data...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Robin Finley

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 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Pope (SCC)
  Instructional Technology, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Adding It All Up: The Administrator’s Guide to Accelerated Math (Repeat)
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Grampas (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Charles Lee

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 →
avatar for Dustin Seaton

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 →
avatar for Erin McCain

Erin McCain

Secondary Math & Science Curriculum Specialist, Rogers Public Schools
Middle School Accelerated Math pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Grampas (MCC)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Building Instructional Systems That Drive Student Growth
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Hoffman (M)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for DarShauna Shepherd

DarShauna Shepherd

Principal, IOTA Leadership Academy
AAEA ILT Agenda pdf
AAEA Data Meeting Protocol pdf
AAEA Long Range Plan pdf
AAEA RTI Planning Sheet (1) pdf
AAEA Coaching Conversation Template pdf
AAEA Building Instructional Systems Presentation (1) pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Hoffman (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Leading District Improvement
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Salon B (M)
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
avatar for Hope Worsham

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 →
avatar for Brooke McCain

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 →
ADE Summit 2026 Leading District Improvement pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Salon B (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Let 'Em Know: Old School Skills for New School Challenges
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Manning (M)
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...
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Presider
avatar for Dr. Dondre Harris

Dr. Dondre Harris

Principal, Bryant Middle School
Dr. Dondre Harris is an educator with Bryant Public Schools who is passionate about helping students learn, grow, and succeed through meaningful and engaging educational experiences. He values collaboration, continuous learning, and the thoughtful integration of technology to support... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Preston Echols

Preston Echols

Director Of Student Services, Conway Public Schools
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Manning (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

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)
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
avatar for Dr. Lee Smith

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 →
BB

Bridget Buckley

Assistant Superintendent, Mena School District
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Judy Pennington

Judy Pennington

Director of Human Resources, Fort Smith Public Schools
Key Values: Improvement, Levity, Clarity, and Family. :)
avatar for Sarah Monfee

Sarah Monfee

Director of Secondary Curriculum and Instruction, Russellville School District
Read The Room Lead The Room pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Neosho (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Recharging the Evaluation Process for Growth
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Salon A (M)
We will explore key leadership actions that will ensure your team is ready to impact teacher growth.  An interactive session where participants will collaborate and leverage LEADS 2.0 to ensure school leaders are equipped to grow their teams to grow more teachers.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Gayle, NIET

Amy Gayle, NIET

Central Regional Director

LEADS Principal Rubric.docx pdf
Recharging the TESS Observation Process for Growth Participant Guide pdf
FILLABLE Recharging the TESS Observation Process for Growth Participant Guide pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Salon A (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Signaling Change: AI and School Communication
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Salon C (M)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Greg Turchetta

Greg Turchetta

Strategic Communications Advisor, Apptegy
NEW Signaling Change AI and School Communications FullFinal pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Salon C (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Teachers to Troops
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
White Oak (MCC)
Lt Col Copeland
Speakers
AA

AR Army National Guard

Arkansas Army National Guard
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
White Oak (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 4

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)
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...
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Presider
avatar for Mark Lewis

Mark Lewis

Conway Public Schools (Retired)


Speakers
avatar for Shavon Jackson

Shavon Jackson

Principal, Russellville School District
avatar for Nancy Madison

Nancy Madison

3rd Grade Teacher / Building Learning Coordinator, Russellville School District
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Riverview (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Tiers to Distinction: Building Support for All Teachers
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Ouachita (MCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Mr. John Unger

Mr. John Unger

Superintendent, West Fork Schools
avatar for Andrea Ward

Andrea Ward

Assistant Superintendent, West Fork School District

TIERS to DISTINCTION (3) pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Ouachita (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

2:50pm CDT

Vision to Impact: Igniting Leadership from Within (Repeat)
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Marcia Smith

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 →
avatar for Christy L. Smith

Christy L. Smith

Associate Professor of Practice, University of Arkansas
Dr. Christy Smith is an Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Arkansas. Prior to her University appointment, Dr. Smith worked for 28 years as a teacher, building principal and district administrator in Arkansas public schools. Her teaching and research interests involve... Read More →
Vision to Impact AAEA 2026 pdf
AAEA Handout 2026 pdf
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

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)
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...
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Speakers
avatar for Megan Strain
CG
Wired for Success AAEA pptx
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

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)
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...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Natalie Gosdin

Natalie Gosdin

Special Education Director, Searcy School District
avatar for Haley Hatch

Haley Hatch

Special Education Director, Pea Ridge School District
Tuesday July 28, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm CDT
Fulton (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 5

5:00pm CDT

American Fidelity After-Hours
Tuesday July 28, 2026 5:00pm - 10:30pm CDT
Brewski's Pub & Grub
Join American Fidelity at Brewski's Pub & Grub. Enjoy a live DJ and some fun karaoke!
Tuesday July 28, 2026 5:00pm - 10:30pm CDT
Brewski's Pub & Grub 315 Main St STE. 100, Little Rock, AR 72201
 
Wednesday, July 29
 

7:30am CDT

Breakfast Available
Wednesday July 29, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)
Wednesday July 29, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Governor's Halls I-IV (SCC)

7:30am CDT

Registration Open
Wednesday July 29, 2026 7:30am - 10:00am CDT
Caddo & Osage (SCC)
Wednesday July 29, 2026 7:30am - 10:00am CDT
Caddo & Osage (SCC)

8:15am CDT

Designing Future-Ready Pathways: Leveraging New AP Offerings for Accelerated Learning
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Grampas (MCC)
Explore how newer AP course offerings create meaningful entry points into rigorous, accelerated learning while helping students prepare for life after graduation. Courses highlighted include AP Seminar/AP Seminar English 10, AP Business with Personal Finance, AP Precalculus, and AP Cybersecurity. Participants will gain practical strategies to expand AP programs, strengthen alignment to graduation...
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Speakers
KM

Kate Morlock

Arkansas K-12 Partnerships Director, College Board
AAEA Conference College Board AP Offerings pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Grampas (MCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Learning in Full Color: Transforming Public Schools Through Arts Integration
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Chicot (MCC)
What happens when creativity becomes the heartbeat of instruction? In this engaging and practical breakout session, participants will explore how arts integration can transform student engagement, strengthen academic achievement, and build a thriving school culture. Through real classroom examples, interactive experiences, and ready-to-use strategies, attendees will discover how the arts can move...
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Presider
avatar for Dr. Lindsey McBride

Dr. Lindsey McBride

Principal, Parkway Elementary
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Stephanie Summerford

Dr. Stephanie Summerford

Principal, Sugar Creek Arts Academy
This is our second year as an Arts Integration Academy. This past year has been an amazing  ride. We have begun our certification, and we are looking forward to another year of academic growth and creativity!
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Chicot (MCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Making Assessment Doable with Google Sheets and a little R
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
White Oak (MCC)
Being the District Testing Coordinator is a heavy lift. With new assessments and assessment monitoring coming at us each year, having a system for tracking who was supposed to and who successfully attempted an assessment is paramount to having a successful testing season. Determining eligibilities, managing students expecting to test as students continuously move into and out of the district, and...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Kelli Langan

Dr. Kelli Langan

District Testing Coordinator, Springdale Public School District
I am the district testing coordinator for Springdale. This is my 21st year in education. Having started out in math education Missouri, I came to Arkansas to attend grad school and never left. I have experience working with accountability models and large data sets. 
AAEA Assessment Doable Conference Presentation (1) pptx
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
White Oak (MCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

New Administrators: What Your Special Education Supervisor Needs You to Know on Day One
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Fulton (SCC)
Starting the school year as a new administrator can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating the complexities of special education. In this session, experienced special education leaders from across the state will share the most critical information new administrators need from day one. From understanding the process of referral to dismissal and everything in between, participants will gain...
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Speakers
avatar for Carla Curtis

Carla Curtis

Director of Special Services, Fayetteville Public Schools
avatar for Lanna Bullington

Lanna Bullington

OUR educational Cooperative
avatar for Kelli Gordon

Kelli Gordon

Special Education Director, Conway School District
DA

Domonique Alexander

Fort Smith School District
avatar for Christy Darrington

Christy Darrington

Director of Special Education, Jacksonville North Pulaski School District
JL

Jana Lee

Forrest City School District

Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Fulton (SCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Systems That Stick: Engineering Sustainable School Improvement
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Salon A (M)
School improvement efforts are most effective when teachers understand the "why" behind the work and have access to systems that make data meaningful and actionable. This session is designed for principals, assistant principals, and instructional leaders seeking practical strategies for building staff capacity around school improvement initiatives.Participants will explore how school leaders can...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Adam Eckard

Dr. Adam Eckard

Assistant Principal, Jonesboro Public Schools
Dr. Adam Eckard serves as the Assistant Principal of School Improvement at Douglas MacArthur Junior High School in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Previously, he served as the Assistant Principal of Student Services at Health, Wellness and Environmental Studies Magnet School in Jonesboro. In... Read More →
avatar for Adriane Duke

Adriane Duke

Instructional Facilitator, Jonesboro School District
Systems that Stick Engineering Sustainable School Improvement pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Salon A (M)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

From Compliance to Impact: Creative Federal Funding Strategies That Move Student Achievement
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Izard (SCC)
Federal and categorical funds can do more than “cover costs”. They can become powerful tools for accelerating student success when used strategically, creatively, and compliantly. Join Ashten Black (CFO) and Kris Williams (Assistant Superintendent) for a session designed specifically for school and district leaders who want to maximize every dollar while avoiding costly mistakes.
Speakers
avatar for Ashten Black

Ashten Black

CFO, Joneboro Public Schools
avatar for Kris Williams

Kris Williams

Assistant Superintendent, Jonesboro School District
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Izard (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Overtime and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Miller (SCC)
This session provides school administrators and district leaders with a practical overview of how the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) interacts with the overtime requirements established under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Participants will explore what these requirements mean for school districts, how to ensure compliance, and what changes may be needed in current compensation and scheduling...
See More →
Speakers
TR

Terri Raskiewicz

Chief Financial Officer, Siloam Springs School District
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Miller (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Navigating the Ship from Middle School to High School
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Manning (M)
The waters of young adolescence have grown increasingly turbulent. Between the "Great Rewiring" of childhood and the shifting social dynamics of the digital age, educators and leaders are often left wondering how to steady the ship. This session dives deep into the heart of the modern youth experience, using two of the most influential works of our time as our navigational stars. We will begin by...
See More →
Presider
avatar for David Yates

David Yates

Middle School Principal, Elkins School District
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Lynn Faught

Dr. Lynn Faught

Principal, McNair Middle School
Dr. Lynn Faught is an experienced educational leader at McNair Middle School, where they focus on creating supportive and effective learning environments for middle school students. With years of hands-on experience in the classroom and school leadership, Dr. Faught enjoys sharing... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Anderson

Stephanie Anderson

Assistant Principal, Fayetteville Public Schools
Hello,I have been a proud Arkansas Educator for 30 years. I have been involved with Arkansas Schools to Watch since 2008, and currently serve as Arkansas State Co-Director. Becoming an Arkansas School to Watch offers numerous benefits, including national recognition, access to best... Read More →
Navigating the Ship pdf
Navigating the Ship pptx
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Manning (M)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Path to Purpose: Empowering At-Risk Youth through Innovative Education and Whole Child Healing
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Hoffman (M)
This session highlights the transformation of DYS education from non-standardized instructional models to a structured, accountability-driven system in which adjudicated youth now meet—and often exceed—academic growth expectations. Participants will gain an inside look at DYS operations and educational practices, including: • How youth enter custody and the average duration of placement. •...
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Speakers
avatar for Cindy L. Willis

Cindy L. Willis

Education Superintendent, Division of Youth Services
Empowering At Risk Youth through Innovative Education and Whole pptx
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Hoffman (M)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Updates From DCTE for 2026-2027
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)
A review of the 2026-2027 CTE Pathway Guide and other news from DCTE.
Presider
avatar for Jennifer Turner

Jennifer Turner

CTE Coordinator, Guy Fenter Education Service Cooperative

Speakers
avatar for Ross White

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 →
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

What Do Arch Ford's Highest VAM Score Teachers Do Differently?
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
What do the teachers with the highest VAM scores across the Arch Ford region have in common? In this session, we’ll share key findings from a regional study conducted in partnership with UCA examining the instructional practices of teachers whose students demonstrate the highest levels of growth in math, ELA, and science. We’ll explore how these teachers are using high-quality instructional...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Julie Workman

Dr. Julie Workman

Teacher Center Coordinator, Arch Ford ESC
Patterns of Practice for High VAM Score Study (3) pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Homegrown Leadership; Planting Seeds for Success in your District
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)
The art of leadership is one that has to be developed.  As leaders in our District we must help develop the next generation of educational leaders.  This presentation will give you some ideas of how we do it in Siloam Springs that you can adapt to your district's needs.
Speakers
avatar for Shane Patrick

Shane Patrick

Superintendent, Siloam Springs School District
Shane Patrick is the Superintendent of the Siloam Springs School District and a veteran educator with more than three decades of experience in public education, leadership, coaching, and school administration. Throughout his career, he has championed student-centered practices, organizational... Read More →
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

How Districts are Removing Communication Barriers to Transform Outcomes
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Salon C (M)
Family engagement has always been one of the strongest predictors of student success. When families feel connected to their district and confident navigating school systems, students show better attendance, stronger academic outcomes, and deeper community support. But many districts struggle to create meaningful engagement because communication is fragmented. Families search for answers across...
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Speakers
avatar for Greg Turchetta

Greg Turchetta

Strategic Communications Advisor, Apptegy
AAEA Level Up How Districts Are Removing Comms Barriers to Transform Outcomes pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Salon C (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Leading with AI Initiatives
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Drew (SCC)
You have an AI policy—now what? This session guides district leaders through the next steps of implementing AI initiatives in schools. Participants will explore strategic and ethical considerations, key non-negotiables for implementation, and practical ways to measure the impact of AI on teaching, learning, and district operations.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Robin Finley

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 →
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Drew (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

School Safety Partnership (Building Administration & Law Enforcement)
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Pope (SCC)
This session outlines processes for school safety and how SROs are involved. Participants will work through safety, discipline, and search and seizure.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Kate Worley

Dr. Kate Worley

Conway High School Principal, Conway Public Schools
Dr. Katti Worley has dedicated 15 years of service to the students, staff, and families of Conway Public Schools, building a career centered on instructional leadership, organizational growth, and a steadfast commitment to student success. She began her career at Conway Junior High... Read More →
avatar for Dan Worley

Dan Worley

School Resource Officer Unit Supervisor, Conway Police Department
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Pope (SCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

The Code of Ethics: How Administrators Can Support Educators in the Prevention of Ethics Violations
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Conway (MCC)
This session equips administrators with practical strategies to proactively support educators in understanding and upholding the Code of Ethics. Participants will explore common ethical pitfalls, how to recognize early warning signs, and what administrators can do to create a culture of ethical awareness and accountability. The session will also offer guidance on how administrators themselves can...
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Speakers
avatar for Laura Shelton

Laura Shelton

Chief Investigator, Professional Licensure Standards Board, Arkansas Department of Education


4. AAEA How Administrator Can Help Educators pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Conway (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 6

8:15am CDT

Vision Casting to Create Systems of Communication
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Salon B (M)
This training session, Vision Casting to Create Systems of Communication, guides school leaders and educators through the process of building effective communication systems that strengthen school culture and collaboration. Participants will explore how to identify campus needs, develop a unifying annual theme, and align administrative and teacher teams to support the vision. The session...
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Speakers
avatar for Micah House

Micah House

Principal, Cabot Public Schools
My journey in education has been anything but traditional, and I believe that’s what fuels my deep passion for serving students, staff, and families. I began my career in public education as a custodian before becoming a teacher and eventually serving as principal of Cabot Middle... Read More →
Wednesday July 29, 2026 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Salon B (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 6

9:30am CDT

GPS for Teaching and Learning: The Arkansas Adolescent Literacy Intervention
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Hoffman (M)
How can we anchor our teaching in innovation to ensure every adolescent learner succeeds? This session introduces the Arkansas Adolescent Literacy Intervention, an approach rooted in the internationally recognized Strategic Instruction Model (SIM). Operating on the foundational principle that all students can achieve when provided with research-validated tools, SIM offers a powerful framework for...
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Speakers
avatar for Gia Taylor

Gia Taylor

Professional Learning Coordinator, Mashburn Center for Learning at University of Central Arkansas

avatar for Dr. Renee Calhoon

Dr. Renee Calhoon

Director, UCA Mashburn Center for Learning, UCA
avatar for Mallorey Jones

Mallorey Jones

Clinical Instructor & Middle Level Program Coordinator, University of Central Arkansas
AAEA Conference Presentation pdf
GPS for Learning The Arkansas Adolescent Literacy Intervention Resource Folder 20260713T151500Z 2 001 zip
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Hoffman (M)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

Leading for Impact: Advanced Placement Data for Accelerated Learning Success
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Grampas (MCC)
Explore how Advanced Placement resources can support subject acceleration and advanced coursework readiness. Participants will explore how AP formative and summative data, provided through AP Classroom and AP Instructional Planning reports, can be used to monitor student progress and guide instructional adjustments. Participants will also explore how AP Potential can be used to identify students...
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Speakers
KM

Kate Morlock

Arkansas K-12 Partnerships Director, College Board
AAEA College Board Data Tools for Advanced Placement pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Grampas (MCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

New Administrators: What Your Special Education Supervisor Needs You to Know on Day One (Repeat)
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Fulton (SCC)
Starting the school year as a new administrator can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating the complexities of special education. In this session, experienced special education leaders from across the state will share the most critical information new administrators need from day one. From understanding the process of referral to dismissal and everything in between, participants will gain...
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Speakers
avatar for Carla Curtis

Carla Curtis

Director of Special Services, Fayetteville Public Schools
avatar for Lanna Bullington

Lanna Bullington

OUR educational Cooperative
avatar for Kelli Gordon

Kelli Gordon

Special Education Director, Conway School District
DA

Domonique Alexander

Fort Smith School District
avatar for Christy Darrington

Christy Darrington

Director of Special Education, Jacksonville North Pulaski School District
JL

Jana Lee

Forrest City School District

Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Fulton (SCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

Organizing Effective Communication and Planning
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Pope (SCC)
This session covers how to build an interactive HUB to communicate with staff that building principals can use to save time and their sanity!
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Kate Worley

Dr. Kate Worley

Conway High School Principal, Conway Public Schools
Dr. Katti Worley has dedicated 15 years of service to the students, staff, and families of Conway Public Schools, building a career centered on instructional leadership, organizational growth, and a steadfast commitment to student success. She began her career at Conway Junior High... Read More →
avatar for Brad Etters

Brad Etters

Principal, Conway Public Schools
Organizing Effective Communication and Planning AAEA EttersWorley pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Pope (SCC)
  Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

From Compliance to Impact: Creative Federal Funding Strategies That Move Student Achievement (Repeat)
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Izard (SCC)
Federal and categorical funds can do more than “cover costs”. They can become powerful tools for accelerating student success when used strategically, creatively, and compliantly. Join Ashten Black (CFO) and Kris Williams (Assistant Superintendent) for a session designed specifically for school and district leaders who want to maximize every dollar while avoiding costly mistakes.
Speakers
avatar for Ashten Black

Ashten Black

CFO, Joneboro Public Schools
avatar for Kris Williams

Kris Williams

Assistant Superintendent, Jonesboro School District
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Izard (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

Overtime and the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Repeat)
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Miller (SCC)
This session provides school administrators and district leaders with a practical overview of how the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) interacts with the overtime requirements established under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Participants will explore what these requirements mean for school districts, how to ensure compliance, and what changes may be needed in current compensation and scheduling...
See More →
Speakers
TR

Terri Raskiewicz

Chief Financial Officer, Siloam Springs School District
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Miller (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

Social Media: What do educators need to know to protect themselves online and keep their license?
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Drew (SCC)
This session explores the benefits and risks of educators' use of social media. Participants will examine legal considerations related to personal social media accounts, including privacy concerns and potential liability when sharing classroom activities or student information. The session will highlight relevant legal cases and provide best practices for responsible social media use, protecting...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Robin Finley

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 →
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Drew (SCC)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

The Finance Five: What Matters Most Right Now
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)
District leaders navigate increasingly complex financial, legislative, and operational challenges. This fast-paced session will break down five of the most important finance topics impacting Arkansas K-12 schools right now, including the new State Captive Insurance Program, property tax pressures and assessment trends, shrinking or shifting enrollment patterns, and economic development incentives....
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Speakers
avatar for Janet Schwanhausser

Janet Schwanhausser

Bentonville Schools
The Finance Five pptx
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Arkansas Ballroom (M)
  Finance/HR/Operations, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

Navigating the Ship from Middle School to High School (Repeat)
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Manning (M)
The waters of young adolescence have grown increasingly turbulent. Between the "Great Rewiring" of childhood and the shifting social dynamics of the digital age, educators and leaders are often left wondering how to steady the ship. This session dives deep into the heart of the modern youth experience, using two of the most influential works of our time as our navigational stars. We will begin by...
See More →
Presider
CF

Crystal Fluker

Brookland Public Schools
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Lynn Faught

Dr. Lynn Faught

Principal, McNair Middle School
Dr. Lynn Faught is an experienced educational leader at McNair Middle School, where they focus on creating supportive and effective learning environments for middle school students. With years of hands-on experience in the classroom and school leadership, Dr. Faught enjoys sharing... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Anderson

Stephanie Anderson

Assistant Principal, Fayetteville Public Schools
Hello,I have been a proud Arkansas Educator for 30 years. I have been involved with Arkansas Schools to Watch since 2008, and currently serve as Arkansas State Co-Director. Becoming an Arkansas School to Watch offers numerous benefits, including national recognition, access to best... Read More →
Navigating the Ship pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Manning (M)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

Updates From DCTE for 2026-2027 (Repeat)
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)
A review of the 2026-2027 CTE Pathway Guide and other news from DCTE.
Presider
avatar for Jennifer Turner

Jennifer Turner

CTE Coordinator, Guy Fenter Education Service Cooperative

Speakers
avatar for Ross White

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 →
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Yell I-II (SCC)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

What Do Arch Ford's Highest VAM Score Teachers Do Differently? (Repeat)
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
What do the teachers with the highest VAM scores across the Arch Ford region have in common? In this session, we’ll share key findings from a regional study conducted in partnership with UCA examining the instructional practices of teachers whose students demonstrate the highest levels of growth in math, ELA, and science. We’ll explore how these teachers are using high-quality instructional...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Julie Workman

Dr. Julie Workman

Teacher Center Coordinator, Arch Ford ESC
Patterns of Practice for High VAM Score Study (3) pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Caraway I-III (SCC)
  Redesigning Learning, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

ATLAS Hack!
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
This session offers attendees a better understanding of the school letter grade and how it is calculated. Attendees will leave with answers to the following questions. How do I find my bottom quartile? How many points do I need in each tested subject area (and at every grade level) to get to an A? What does it mean to "meet growth?" What exactly is the "growth target?" What is the point value of...
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Speakers
avatar for DJ Vincent

DJ Vincent

Principal, Drew Central Middle School
I am the Principal at a school where I once attended as a student. 
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Harris Brake (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

The Code of Ethics: Updates on Processes and Procedures
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Conway (MCC)
This session provides administrators with current updates to ethics-related processes and procedures, with a focused look at PLSB 24-Hour Standard 1 Reporting and Mandated Reporting of Disqualifying Offenses. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of reporting timelines, responsibilities, and the steps required to remain in compliance with state standards.
Speakers
avatar for Laura Shelton

Laura Shelton

Chief Investigator, Professional Licensure Standards Board, Arkansas Department of Education


2. Code of Ethics Training Administrators pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Conway (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

Transformational Leadership Playbook: Doing What Works
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Salon A (M)
This presentation will explore how transformational leadership builds a positive, collaborative school culture through intentional action. We will discuss gathering and responding to authentic feedback from students and staff, motivating and incentivizing student effort, promoting strong team building, and maintaining high leadership visibility. The session will also highlight the importance of...
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Speakers
avatar for Charles Blacknall

Charles Blacknall

Principal, Malvern School District
avatar for Hiram Sumlin
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Salon A (M)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

What Effective Arkansas Principals Are Doing to Lead Academic Growth: Lessons from a Study of Arkansas Principals
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
White Oak (MCC)
Based on a research study of principals whose schools were recognized for academic growth, this session focuses on the leadership moves that some Arkansas principals are making to lead schools that demonstrate the highest academic growth on end of year assessments. Interviews with principals, examination of data, and analysis of leadership practices points to a few fundamental principles and...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Michael Hensley

Dr. Michael Hensley

Assistant Professor of Practice, University of Arkansas
Michael Hensley currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Practice in Educational Leadership at the University of Arkansas. Previously, he worked in the Van Buren School District as assistant principal then principal of the Freshman Academy. He taught English and coached basketball... Read More →
AAEA Presentation 72926 pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
White Oak (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 7

9:30am CDT

Why Am I Still Here?
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Chicot (MCC)
This presentation shares the story of why one educator remains committed to education, even when the work around us feels increasingly challenging. It is designed as an interactive session that invites participants to reflect deeply on their own "why": why they continue to serve as administrators, teachers, and educators. Participants will engage in meaningful dialogue and reflection, recognizing...
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Presider
avatar for Kelecia Glover

Kelecia Glover

Principal, Mabelvale Elementary

Speakers
avatar for Robert Fitzgerald

Robert Fitzgerald

Assistant Principal Leverett Elementary / Director of 21st Century Programming for Fayetteville Public Schools, Fayetteville Schools
Robert Fitzgerald is kicking off his sixth year in educational administration in an exciting new role as Director of 21st Century Programming. Before stepping into district leadership, he proudly served as the Assistant Principal at Leverett Elementary in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where... Read More →
Wednesday July 29, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am CDT
Chicot (MCC)
  Transformational Leadership, Breakout Session 7

10:40am CDT

Closing General Session - Vision to Impact: Be the Change
Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:40am - 12:00pm CDT
Wally Allen Ballroom (SCC)
By 1:00 PM, you've already navigated more complicated, high-stakes situations than most people encounter in a week- all while holding yourself and everyone around you to the highest standard. And because these moments are so common, by the time you get home, you've already forgotten half of what happened. Join Rosalind Wiseman for AAEA's closing keynote, founded on over two decades of research and...
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Speakers
avatar for Rosalind Wiseman
2026.07.29 Wiseman Keynote for AAEA pdf
Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:40am - 12:00pm CDT
Wally Allen Ballroom (SCC)
 

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