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Monday, July 13
 

8:30am CDT

Pre-Conference Check-in
Monday July 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Lobby

Monday July 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

9:00am CDT

Beginning Principal Pre-Conference
Monday July 13, 2026 9:00am - 4:00pm CDT
Rooms 208-209
A dedicated session for first-year building-level principals. Read Commissioner's Memo LIC-26-009 for additional details.
Monday July 13, 2026 9:00am - 4:00pm CDT
Rooms 208-209 Hot Springs Convention Center
  Human Capital

9:00am CDT

Beginning Superintendent Pre-Conference
Monday July 13, 2026 9:00am - 4:00pm CDT
Room 207
A dedicated session for newly appointed Arkansas superintendents with no prior superintendent experience. Read Commissioner's Memo LIC-26-009 for additional details.
Monday July 13, 2026 9:00am - 4:00pm CDT
Room 207 Hot Springs Convention Center
  Human Capital

9:30am CDT

Teaching & Learning Collaborative (TLC) Pre-Conference
Monday July 13, 2026 9:30am - 4:30pm CDT
Horner Hall

Speakers
avatar for Kiffany Pride

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education
Kiffany Pride currently serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Learning Services for Arkansas’ Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). With 27 years of experience, Dr. Pride has recently served as the Director of Curriculum and Assessment and RISE Assessor for the... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 9:30am - 4:30pm CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center
  Instruction

4:30pm CDT

Early Registration Check-in
Monday July 13, 2026 4:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Grand Lobby

Monday July 13, 2026 4:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

4:30pm CDT

Welcome Reception
Monday July 13, 2026 4:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Exhibit Hall A
Join us in the Grand Lobby as we kick off the conference! Enjoy food/drinks at the reception and visit the Exhibit Hall to chat with our vendors.
Monday July 13, 2026 4:30pm - 6:30pm CDT
Exhibit Hall A Hot Springs Convention Center
  General
 
Tuesday, July 14
 

7:30am CDT

Morning Snacks
Tuesday July 14, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby

Tuesday July 14, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

7:30am CDT

Registration Check-in
Tuesday July 14, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby

Tuesday July 14, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

8:30am CDT

KEYNOTE - How to Unleash the Science of Learning in your Classroom
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D
Teaching might be an art, but learning is a science. Dr. Pooja K. Agarwal, cognitive scientist, educator, and book author shares practical teaching strategies—based on 100 years of research—that dramatically improve student learning. Equipped with scientific knowledge and evidence-based tools, turn your teaching into powerful teaching and unleash the science of learning in your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Pooja Agarwal

Pooja Agarwal

Dr. Pooja K. Agarwal (@RetrieveLearn) is a cognitive scientist, conducting research on how students learn for more than 20 years. She is the lead author of the book Powerful Teaching, editor of the book Smart Teaching Stronger Learning, and an Associate Professor of Psychology at... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D Hot Springs Convention Center
  Instruction, Science of Learning

10:20am CDT

Applying the TESS Rubric Across Multiple Classroom Roles
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Join administrators and teachers for a collaborative discussion on supporting teacher growth through observation and coaching. This session will highlight administrators’ use of the TESS rubric and how coaching practices are adapted to meet the needs of educators serving in diverse classroom roles.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Amstutz

Julie Amstutz

Leadership Development Coach, Office of Coordinated Support and Service
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

10:20am CDT

From Vacancy to Vitality: Strengthening the Educator Pipeline with Nimble
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Across the country, districts are reimagining how they recruit, select, and support educators. Join Nimble, for a forward-looking discussion on transforming hiring practices to better serve schools, candidates, and communities. This session will explore how technology and strategic workforce planning can help districts: Expand access to high-quality candidates Increase efficiency in screening and...
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Speakers
avatar for Krista Pfeiffer

Krista Pfeiffer

Marketing Manager, Nimble
avatar for Capri Salaam

Capri Salaam

2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Arkansas Department of Education

LD
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

10:20am CDT

Algebra 1 Readiness
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This one-hour session highlights the essential skills that support Algebra 1 readiness and the classroom data levers that most effectively reveal student needs. Participants will learn how simple, everyday data can guide targeted instruction and strengthen students’ pathway to Algebra 1 success.
Speakers
avatar for Ciara Gulley

Ciara Gulley

State Math Specialist, ADE
Ciara Gulley is a highly motivated and student-centered educational leader with a strong foundation in secondary mathematics education and a passion for advancing student success. Currently serving as a State Mathematics Specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education, Ciara... Read More →
avatar for Kisa Morman

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Kisa Morman, a native of Little Rock, is a K–12 Math School Program Manager with over 20 years in education. She is passionate about helping all students build confidence in math by mastering numeracy, accessing effective interventions, and engaging in problem-solving to foster... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Math

10:20am CDT

Closing the Research-to-Practice Gap
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
One of the most challenging problems facing schools today is the gap between what research has demonstrated to be effective and the instructional practices implemented in many classrooms. This session will address how to access reliable information on research findings, as well as how to identify claims that are not backed by research.
Speakers
HL
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction

10:20am CDT

Combining AI Efficiency with the Human Touch: Scaling Writing Feedback in Arkansas Classrooms
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
In this session, educators from Harrison Public Schools and EnlightenAI will share how Arkansas teachers are using AI to dramatically increase the amount of personalized writing feedback students receive without creating an unsustainable grading burden for teachers. The session will explore how teachers can maintain control over grading quality and instructional judgment while using AI to...
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Speakers
GT
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

10:20am CDT

Street Smart: How the Arkansas Department of Transportation is Bringing Road Safety Education to Classrooms Statewide
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Street Smart is a free, children’s road safety education program available to all Arkansas educators. In this session, learn how the Arkansas Department of Transportation and the Arkansas Department of Education worked together to fill a gap in road safety education. This ADE-approved, comprehensive curriculum includes lessons, activities, and professionally-produced videos – ready-made for...
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Speakers
TB
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction

10:20am CDT

Work-Based Learning in Action: From Practicum to Apprenticeship in Arkansas
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Work-Based Learning (WBL) is a critical bridge between education and the workforce—but understanding how it is structured and recognized in Arkansas is key to scaling its impact. This panel session will explore the continuum of WBL opportunities in the secondary setting, including Internships, Career Practicum, Pre-Apprenticeships, and Youth Apprenticeships. Hear directly from educators,...
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Speakers
avatar for Debora Cosen

Debora Cosen

Coordinator of Work based Learning, Arkansas Department of Education/Divison of Career and Technical Education
Work based Learning Coordinator at the Division of Career and Technical Education (DCTE) supporting program operations, data reporting, and compliance for CTE initiatives.

DD
MJ
avatar for Patti Priest

Patti Priest

Teacher, Har-Ber High School
avatar for Ross White

Ross White

Education Divison Administrator, ADE - DCTE - Office of Leadership
Ross White, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), brings a wealth of CTE experience and knowledge to the division. Before serving as vice principal at Siloam Springs High School, a position he has held since July 2019, White was the director of the school’s CTE program... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, CTE

10:20am CDT

Healthier Schools, Stronger Communities: Expanding Support for Child Nutrition Programs
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
School and district leaders balance competing priorities every day—often relying on child nutrition teams to keep students fed, focused, and ready to learn without adding to operational strain. This session highlights how strategic support for child nutrition programs can strengthen both student outcomes and district success. Participants will learn how UAMS Institute for Community Health...
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Speakers
avatar for Sara Sorrell

Sara Sorrell

Associate Data Analyst, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Sara works with child nutrition teams in Northwest and rural Arkansas to understand the students' perceptions of new food offerings through surveys and focus groups. She has worked in and observed kitchens across the state and interviewed child nutrition directors, cafeteria managers... Read More →
AC
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
  Operations, Child Nutrition

10:20am CDT

New Coordinators Session
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This session is tailored for NEW SIS Coordinators to provide an in-depth understanding of their responsibilities, available resources, communication importance, and to learn about the SIS system and the state reporting process.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Bowman

Jessica Bowman

APSCN User Support Coordinator, Arkansas Dept of Education
RJ

Reshmi Jose

IT Coordinator, Office of Information Technology
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

10:20am CDT

Stronger Together: Partnering with Business to Expand Child Care Access
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Allison Williams E8 - Early childhood education is a critical driver of both current workforce stability and future economic growth. Participants will explore how cross-sector partnerships move beyond traditional philanthropy to impact systemic issues of accessibility, affordability, and quality in early learning.
Speakers
avatar for Alison Williams
avatar for Jennifer Douglas

Jennifer Douglas

Early Childhood Program Administrator, ADE: DESE Office of Early Childhood
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Early Childhood

10:20am CDT

Triand Reports that Raise the Grade
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This session will explore the reports available in Triand and how they can be used to inform and strengthen the work of school counselors and school leaders. Participants will learn how to use Triand reports to monitor student progress, understand Merit and Distinction status, track bottom-quartile students, and analyze graduation cohorts—providing practical tools to support data-informed...
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Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Reed

Lindsay Reed

Director, Office of School Counseling, Arkansas Department of Education


avatar for Echo Dickson

Echo Dickson

APSCN Field Analyst, Arkansas Dept of Education
avatar for Angel Peugh
avatar for Hope Worsham

Hope Worsham

Asst. Commissioner of Public School Accountability, DESE
Hope Worsham serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability at the Arkansas Department of Education, where she leads statewide efforts to support school performance and ensure meaningful use of data in decision-making. With a career spanning multiple leadership... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

11:40am CDT

Milestones: Navigating Licensure Updates, Pathways, and Progress Points
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
As the educator landscape evolves, staying informed on certification requirements is essential for maintaining a stable and qualified workforce. This session provides a comprehensive look at recent licensure updates and the diverse pathways available for educators to achieve full certification. We will analyze current unlicensed teacher data to identify critical gaps and introduce a strategic...
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Speakers
avatar for Matthew Sutherlin

Matthew Sutherlin

Director of Educator Preparation and Licensure, Educator Effectiveness and Licensure
Matthew Sutherlin brings over twenty-two years of experience in education, having served in both K–12 and higher education across four states. His career includes classroom teaching as well as leadership roles in higher education, where he has held positions such as Director, Department... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Licensure

11:40am CDT

All In: Meaningful Access
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
When schools Decide, Align, Teach, and Communicate with shared direction over time, access becomes more durable and less fragile. This session focuses on how sustained attention across these actions shapes students’ long‑term opportunity and post‑graduation readiness.
Speakers
avatar for Chelsey Moore

Chelsey Moore

Education Professional I, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
My work has always centered on building relationships to support learning, from early childhood and higher education to statewide leadership in family engagement and student success. Whether teaching in the public-school classroom, directing the 3D Program at UA-Pulaski Tech, or leading... Read More →
avatar for Becky Bell

Becky Bell

Coordinator of Assessment & Curriculum, DESE-OSE
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Special Education

11:40am CDT

Planning for Impact: Data-Driven Math Interventions in Grades 3–8
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
In this one-hour session, participants will explore the core components of effective math intervention, including using data to identify student needs, setting clear and attainable learning goals, and monitoring progress to inform instructional decisions. The session will highlight how to align interventions to standards progressions and select appropriate diagnostics that support targeted...
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Speakers
avatar for Kisa Morman

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Kisa Morman, a native of Little Rock, is a K–12 Math School Program Manager with over 20 years in education. She is passionate about helping all students build confidence in math by mastering numeracy, accessing effective interventions, and engaging in problem-solving to foster... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Math

11:40am CDT

Upstream Thinking: Prevention vs Intervention
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
The consequences of low literacy can be dire. We can't keep waiting for children to fail before we provide them with the help they need. Instead, we need to change the way we think about addressing our students' literacy needs by enhancing the quality of instruction in the primary grades. Through effective early ready instruction, most long-term difficulties can be averted. Evidence-based...
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Speakers
HL
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

11:40am CDT

Clean Data Matters: SIS and SFA – Common Errors and Solutions
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
From everyday SIS and SFA mistakes to proven district‑level solutions, this panel‑driven session blends expert insights with practitioner voices. Hear directly from district leaders as they unpack real challenges, share what works, and chart a clear path toward cleaner, more reliable data.
Speakers
avatar for Pam Carter

Pam Carter

Data Systems Manager, Cabot Public Schools
avatar for Renee Curtis

Renee Curtis

Director of Administrative Services, Bryant Public Schools
Renee Curtis received her latest degree, Educational Specialist, from Henderson State University and has recently been named as the Director of Administrative Services for Bryant Public Schools. Renee obtained her degree of Bachelor of Science in Education from University of Central... Read More →
avatar for Jill Johnson

Jill Johnson

APSCN Student Applications Manager, Arkansas Department of Education
avatar for Jeffrey Fetters

Jeffrey Fetters

District Review Manager, Arkansas Department of Education

JD
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

11:40am CDT

Closing the Gap V2: How Pre‑K Outcomes Shape Long‑Term Success
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Closing the Gap Before It Begins 2.0: The Power of Pre‑K Outcomes” This session explores how the Early Development Instrument (EDI) serves as a powerful population-level tool to identify and address developmental inequities before children enter the classroom. Participants will learn how to analyze EDI data across five key domains to pinpoint community vulnerabilities, strategically allocate...
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Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Douglas

Jennifer Douglas

Early Childhood Program Administrator, ADE: DESE Office of Early Childhood
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Early Childhood

11:40am CDT

Reclaiming Local Control: Arkansas’ Unified Education Plan
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Arkansas is seeking federal approval for a Unified Education Plan that streamlines accountability, reduces administrative burden, and puts education decisions back in the hands of local districts, educators, and families. Built on the foundation of the Arkansas LEARNS Act, the plan aligns state and federal systems to focus on what matters most—student achievement, growth, and readiness for life...
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Speakers
avatar for Matt Sewell

Matt Sewell

Assistant Commissioner, DESE
avatar for Stacy Smith

Stacy Smith

Deputy Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education
Stacy Smith is a dedicated education professional currently serving as the Deputy Commissioner for the Arkansas Department of Education. With a passion for improving education in the state for all students and educators alike, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the state's educational... Read More →
avatar for Hope Worsham

Hope Worsham

Asst. Commissioner of Public School Accountability, DESE
Hope Worsham serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Public School Accountability at the Arkansas Department of Education, where she leads statewide efforts to support school performance and ensure meaningful use of data in decision-making. With a career spanning multiple leadership... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations

11:40am CDT

School Choice
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
This session will review the various options families of students in Arkansas have in finding the best educational options for that student. Specifically, the presentation will address the obligations and opportunities various School Choice options present to the local public school.
Speakers
JR
DS
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Legal

11:40am CDT

SIS Updates
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
SIS Coordinators! this session we will discuss the features of the state reporting system (SIS) and discuss how the features can be utliized in the state reporting process.
Speakers
JC
RJ

Reshmi Jose

IT Coordinator, Office of Information Technology
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

11:40am CDT

Staffing with Intention: Understanding Long‑Term Budget Impacts
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Staffing decisions are among the most consequential choices district leaders make. With salaries and benefits comprising the majority of a district’s operating budget, even small staffing changes can have long‑term fiscal implications that extend well beyond a single budget year. This session is designed for superintendents, school business managers, and principals who play a role in staffing...
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Speakers
avatar for Jason Miller

Jason Miller

Office of Coordinated Support and Services/ Leadership Development & Fiscal Services, Arkansas Department of Education
Jason Miller currently serves as a State Leadership Development Coach at the Arkansas Department of Education, where he provides statewide guidance on district operations, school finance, effective use of personnel, and resource management. 

Mr. Miller specializes in budget development, internal controls, and strategic resource use, delivering professional development and fiscal guidance to superintendents, CFOs, and district leaders. He also plays a key role in evaluating the financial health of districts and analyzing... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Finance

11:40am CDT

The State of the State Scholarships
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
State scholarships play a critical role in helping Arkansas students access and afford postsecondary education. This session will provide an overview of the current landscape of Arkansas state scholarship programs, including updates to existing awards, recent policy and legislative changes, and key information affecting student eligibility and participation. Participants will gain insight into...
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Speakers
avatar for Alisha Lewis

Alisha Lewis

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Division of Higher Education
Alisha Lewis began service to the Arkansas Department of Higher Education in March 2017 where she serves as the Associate Director of Communications.  Through Arkansas State Transformation, her role transitioned to Chief Communication Director for the new encompassing Department... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Finance

1:00pm CDT

Career Advising That Counts: Leveraging rootEd and DCTE to Support Student Success
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
College and career advising plays a critical role in helping students navigate pathways, make informed decisions, and prepare for life after high school. This session will provide a clear look at Arkansas’ two primary college and career advising models—rootEd and DCTE—highlighting their unique focuses, impact data, and how they support students in different ways. Participants will gain...
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Speakers
avatar for Sonja Wright-McMurray

Sonja Wright-McMurray

Assistant Director of Operations, ADE
Dr. Sonja Wright-McMurray is the Assistant Director for Operations at the Arkansas Department of Education, Division of Career and Technical Education. In 2009, she began working for the Division of Career and Technical Education to implement and lead the Arkansas Career Coach Program... Read More →
avatar for Mary Beck

Mary Beck

Regional Specialist, DCTE
AJ
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, CTE

1:00pm CDT

From the Science of Learning to Instruction—Designing What Works
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Exhibit Hall B
Building on the Science of Learning, this session focuses on translating research into daily instructional decisions. Participants will examine what high-impact, evidence-based instruction looks like in classrooms, how to use data responsively, and how to avoid common instructional pitfalls. Emphasis is placed on strengthening Tier 1 instruction so more students succeed with core...
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Speakers
avatar for Amanda VanDerHeyden

Amanda VanDerHeyden

RISS Keynote Speaker, Spring Math
Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden is a policy adviser and thought leader who actively conducts research focused on improving learning outcomes for students. In addition to publishing ten books and over 100 scholarly articles and chapters, she regularly delivers webinar, panel and keynote sessions... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Exhibit Hall B Hot Springs Convention Center
  Instruction, Science of Learning

1:00pm CDT

Magic School AI
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Speakers
avatar for Jaime Courtright

Jaime Courtright

Account Executive, MagicSchool
MagicSchool is on a mission to bring an AI assistant to every teacher in the world to help tackle teacher burnout while bringing AI Literacy for students to the classroom. MagicSchool is the leading, most secure, and comprehensive AI platform in education with over 5 million educators... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

1:00pm CDT

What's on the Menu? Interactions
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Arkansas is currently in a CLASS pilot year.  As Local Leads, part of our job is to visit all publicly funded classrooms, administer a CLASS assessment, and support programs in building positive, meaningful interactions. The four presenters for this season have collectively completed more than 150 CLASS observations in the last year and a half across infant, toddler, and pre-K...
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Speakers
avatar for Wendy Green

Wendy Green

Local Lead, Crowley's Ridge Educational Service Cooperative
avatar for Chrissy Sain

Chrissy Sain

Local Leads, Northeast Arkansas Education Cooperative
avatar for Jodi Whitman

Jodi Whitman

Senior Director, Partnerships, LENA
Jodi Whiteman, M.Ed., CEIM, IMH-E® is the Senior Director of Partnerships at LENA. In this position she supports early childhood programs, organizations and states to transform children’s future through early talk technology and data-driven programs. She has over 25 years of experience in the early childhood field... Read More →
KN

Katlin Niemeyer

Local Leads Captain, SWAEC
avatar for Shasta Pentecost

Shasta Pentecost

Local Lead, Dawson Education Cooperative
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
  Instruction, Early Learning

1:00pm CDT

Coordinated School Safety: Incident Communication Protocols and Building Design Considerations
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session will provide an overview of DESE’s School Safety Incident and Communication Protocol, explaining how Arkansas school districts, educational cooperatives, the Safe Schools Unit, and DESE leadership collaborate during school safety incidents and other significant events. Participants will learn how the tiered, bidirectional communication structure supports the clear, timely exchange...
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Speakers
avatar for Jason Weatherly, PhD

Jason Weatherly, PhD

Public Safety Supervisor / Expert, Arkansas Department of Education
Dr. Weatherly is an Arkansas native. He has completed trainings in various areas of school safety, including Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), School Safety Coordinator (Basic and Advanced), School Site Assessment and... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, School Safety

1:00pm CDT

Data Without the Drama: Google Sheets Strategies Worth Sharing
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
“It’s not what you know — it’s what you share.” In a data-driven educational environment, spreadsheets can feel intimidating or overly technical. Yet the goal of any data conversation isn’t complexity — it’s clarity. This session is built around a simple promise: I hope you learn one new thing. Designed for school leaders, coordinators, and support staff at all experience levels,...
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Speakers
avatar for Susan Gilley

Susan Gilley

Executive Director, Harrison School District
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations

1:00pm CDT

FOIA & FERPA
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session will offer a review of the law governing Arkansas Public Schools release of information as well as the law governing the meeting of a public governing body such as a school board. These subjects are primally governed by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Speakers
DS
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Legal

1:00pm CDT

Food Service Management Company Contracts and Federal Child Nutrition Programs
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
We will address what you should know about the FSMC procurement process and requirements.
Speakers
ND

Nancy Dill

Public School Program Manager, DESE, Child Nutrition Unit
Registered Dietitian; BS University of Arkansas, Dietetic Internship University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, MS University of Central Arkansas. The world of Nutrition and Dietetics has taken me through various clinical settings and eventually to a place in the DESE, Child Nutrition... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Child Nutrition

1:00pm CDT

Innovation & New Models: MicroSchools as a Public School Strategy
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
How clarity, coherence, and trust drive sustainable enrollment over time. Enrollment health reflects trust, clarity, and coherence. This session reframes student recruitment, retention, and enrollment management as a leadership and governance responsibility, not a marketing task. Participants will explore how families make enrollment decisions, why schools lose students over time, and how mission...
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Speakers
avatar for Darrell Smith

Darrell Smith

Assistant Commissioner of School Choice & Parent Empowerment, Arkansas Department of Education
Darrell Smith has been involved in education for over 30 years. He spent almost 20 years in Arkansas serving as a teacher, principal, and administrator, helping to lead one of the largest private schools in the country to National Blue Ribbon status. He has recently led a number of... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations

1:00pm CDT

Maximizing Time & Meeting Standards: Smart Strategies for New Administrators
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
New administrators often face unexpected challenges that can impact accreditation. This session uses real scenarios to unpack common pitfalls and offers clear, practical strategies to address them before they become bigger issues.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jeanie Johnson

Dr. Jeanie Johnson

PSA Coordinator of Monitoring & Accreditation, ADE DESE
As Coordinator of Special Projects within the Office of Public School Accountability, I work alongside my team to support school districts across Arkansas in understanding and fulfilling their responsibilities under state and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Our unit provides... 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 →
avatar for Amber Pirnique

Amber Pirnique

DIrector of Special Projects, Arkansas Department of Education
Amber Pirnique serves as Director of Special Projects for the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), leading priority, cross‑agency initiatives that advance statewide goals in literacy, coaching, and system support. Her portfolio includes The Writing Revolution... Read More →
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

1:00pm CDT

Real Talk: Online Safety Q&A with Arkansas State Police ICAC
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
This Q&A session features analysts from the Arkansas State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, offering practical insights into how to better equip children with the skills they need to navigate the digital world safely. This session explores effective strategies for teaching online safety, increasing awareness of potential digital risks, and fostering critical thinking in...
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Speakers
CH

Cassie Harris

Criminal Intelligence Analyst, Arkansas State Police
LP
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
  Operations, School Safety

1:00pm CDT

Trauma Resource Initiative for Schools (TRIS): Trainings, Resources and Supports for Schools to Prepare and Respond to Traumatic Events
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
TRIS exists because in Arkansas, two-thirds of youth will face at least one potentially traumatic event before adulthood and educators often see the impacts of those events on their campus. This presentation is an overview of the trainings, resources and supports TRIS offers to school staff to help them prepare, support and respond to traumatic events. • At the end of this presentation the...
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Speakers
ER
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Student Support

2:00pm CDT

Afternoon Snacks
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Grand Lobby

Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

2:20pm CDT

LAUNCH for Students: A Framework for Student Success Planning
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
This session provides an overview of LAUNCH for Students, a statewide student success planning framework. Participants will learn the purpose, key components, and expectations for implementation to support student achievement and postsecondary readiness.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez

Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez

Director of Student Support Services, ADE-DESE
Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez is a native of San Diego de Alejandría, Jalisco, México. She has been a proud Arkansan since 1998. Her husband, Adelso, is a native of Belize and they have a beautiful, blended family, together they have an energetic ten-year-old son and an additional... Read More →
avatar for Lindsay Reed

Lindsay Reed

Director, Office of School Counseling, Arkansas Department of Education


JW
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Student Support

2:20pm CDT

Merit Fund Incentive Program & the Arkansas Excellence in Teaching Fellowship
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
Each year, thousands of Arkansas teachers receive merit pay. In 2025-26, two dozen of those teachers were selected as fellows for the inaugural cohort. In this session, severeal of the fellows will share about their experience, which gave them a front-row seat to policymakers and connected them with other high-performing teachers across the state.
Moderators
avatar for Meghan Thompson Busbey

Meghan Thompson Busbey

Senior Director, Programs, Forward Arkansas
Speakers
CQ
avatar for Lyndsey Laster

Lyndsey Laster

Third Grade Teacher, Poyen school district
Third grade teacher at Poyen Elementary, Secretary for the Arkansas Literacy Association, Membership Chair for the Grant County Reading Council.
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

2:20pm CDT

New ATLAS Writing Rubric
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
Join us for an engaging educational summit introducing the new ATLAS Assessment Writing Rubric—a shared framework designed to bring clarity, consistency, and rigor to student writing. Together, we’ll explore how the rubric can strengthens instruction, support meaningful feedback, and elevates expectations across classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Andress Scott

Andress Scott

RISE State Specialist, DESE
avatar for Kelly Stone

Kelly Stone

RISE Specialist, Arkansas Department of Education
JW
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Assessment, Literacy

2:20pm CDT

Supporting Accelerated Learning: Cambridge Programming
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
Join Cambridge and Rogers Public School District as they share about implementation of Cambridge Education Programming to support accelerated learning opportunities for students. Rogers is in early stages of implementation and will share their current program implementation status and their plans for expanding program offerings in their district, aligned to providing accelerated learning...
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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 →
DK

Dr. Kristy Brown

Assistant Superintendent, Rogers Public Schools
TM
avatar for Joette Viggiano

Joette Viggiano

School Development Manager, Cambridge
Joette Viggiano, School Development Manager for the Southeast U.S. with Cambridge, has 16 years of educational experience which began with teaching Cambridge Lower Secondary Science. With a bachelor’s degree in Biology and a master’s degree in Administration and Supervision, her... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Accelerated Learning

2:20pm CDT

The Science of Learning—How Students Actually Learn
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
This session grounds participants in the Science of Learning, exploring how attention, memory, practice, feedback, and cognitive load shape student learning. Drawing on research-informed principles, participants will examine what effective instruction must include for learning to stick—especially for students who struggle. This foundational session establishes a shared language for instruction...
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Speakers
avatar for Amanda VanDerHeyden

Amanda VanDerHeyden

RISS Keynote Speaker, Spring Math
Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden is a policy adviser and thought leader who actively conducts research focused on improving learning outcomes for students. In addition to publishing ten books and over 100 scholarly articles and chapters, she regularly delivers webinar, panel and keynote sessions... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Science of Learning

2:20pm CDT

Using AI to Improve Student Outcomes
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
Artificial intelligence is giving school and district leaders powerful new ways to make sense of assessment data and drive instructional improvement. In this practical, one-hour workshop, administrators from Harrison School District will share how a deliberately structured suite of AI tools can help evaluate assessments and instructional materials against Achievement Level Descriptors — all with...
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Speakers
avatar for Emily Barrett

Emily Barrett

Technology Facilitator, Harrison School District
avatar for Kevin Kaeser

Kevin Kaeser

7-12 Technology Facilitator, Harrison School District
I am the canvas administrator for my school district as well as a technology coach for grades 7-12.
DW

Debbie Wilson

Curriculum Instruction and Assessment, Harrison School District
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

2:20pm CDT

From High School to College: Introducing the AR OneApp
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
In response to the recently enacted ACCESS legislation, the Arkansas Division of Higher Education is launching the AR OneApp, a new statewide application platform designed to simplify the college application process for Arkansas students. Through a secure portal, high school seniors will be able to submit a single application and apply to multiple participating Arkansas institutions, reducing...
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Speakers
avatar for Alisha Lewis

Alisha Lewis

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Division of Higher Education
Alisha Lewis began service to the Arkansas Department of Higher Education in March 2017 where she serves as the Associate Director of Communications.  Through Arkansas State Transformation, her role transitioned to Chief Communication Director for the new encompassing Department... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Finance

2:20pm CDT

Fueling Student Success: Nutrition Programs for your District
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
Join Nutrition Services for an informative session that will highlight the range of nutrition programs available to support your students. Attendees will gain an understanding of program benefits, and the application process along with practical strategies to maximize participation while staying in compliance.
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Erick

Courtney Erick

Area Specialist Supervisor, Arkansas Department of Education
Courtney Erick is a registered dietitian with a master's degree from Iowa State University. She is Passionate about promoting healthy eating habits. Courtney combines her academic background with practical experience as a ServSafe Instructor and Proctor and a certified Child Nutrition... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Child Nutrition

2:20pm CDT

Leading School Improvement
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
Step into the year with clarity and momentum. This session highlights practical strategies for leading school‑wide improvement efforts, building trust quickly, and identifying the right levers for early wins. Perfect for new district administrators ready to make a meaningful impact from day one.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Harris

Ashley Harris

Director of Learning and Development
Ashley Harris, Ed.S, is an educational leader currently serving as the Director for Learning and Development in Arkansas, where she is dedicated to transforming education by prioritizing high-quality instructional opportunities for students. She holds an Education Specialist degree... 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 →
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
avatar for Dr. Julie Workman

Dr. Julie Workman

Teacher Center Coordinator, Arch Ford Education Service Cooperative
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

2:20pm CDT

Title IX
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
This session will review the federal law which ensure fair treatment between men and women in an educational environment. Key topics will include the requirements Title IX places on public school districts and the process a school district must engage in when a Title IX Compliant is filed.
Speakers
avatar for Alisha Price

Alisha Price

Attorney, Arkansas Department of Education
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Legal

2:20pm CDT

A Pound of Prevention: From Data Entry to State Reporting
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 4:20pm CDT
TBA
This session will give guidance on frequent data entry errors in the eSchoolPLUS system, which can impact the accuracy of data used for state reporting and other state systems. It offers direction for best practice and procedures of data entry to prevent errors that can have a negative effect on a district and how to solve the errors, if they do occur. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a...
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Speakers
avatar for Lynda Burt

Lynda Burt

Information System Business Analyst, ADE/APSCN
My employment under APSCN began in 1997. I enjoy assisting districts with issues they may be having with eSchool, Cognos, and/or State Reporting. A couple of my duties are to create/edit eSchool documentation and to test state reporting cycles. I find these challenging and like to... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 4:20pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

2:20pm CDT

Finance Cycles and Troubleshooting Tips
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 4:20pm CDT
TBA
This session will cover data fields within the FinancePLUS software that are reported in the state reporting cycles and will troubleshoot cycle errors and corrections. This session is for any users who enter data into the eFinance software, especially for the SIS Coordinator for cycles 1,8,9.
Speakers
JW

Jessica Wiley

APSCN Financial Support, Arkansas Dept of Education
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 4:20pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Finance

3:40pm CDT

Turning “Gotcha” into “I’ve Got You!”
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
TESS and LEADS support a continuous cycle of learning for educators and leaders throughout the observation and feedback process. This session will share updates of the Educator Effectiveness System regarding pre/post observations questions and a refined feedback protocol developed during the Calibration pilot and summer learning series
Speakers
PP

Pearce Peacock

Evaluation State Support Specialist, DESE
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

3:40pm CDT

Accelerating Student Success: Updates to Accelerated Learning in Arkansas
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
This session provides a comprehensive overview of Arkansas’s vision for accelerated learning and how it translates into actionable practice across schools and districts to support student success. Participants will revisit the foundational goals of accelerated learning before exploring key components of the Accelerated Learning Guide, including accelerated learning options, teacher training, and...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez

Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez

Director of Student Support Services, ADE-DESE
Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez is a native of San Diego de Alejandría, Jalisco, México. She has been a proud Arkansan since 1998. Her husband, Adelso, is a native of Belize and they have a beautiful, blended family, together they have an energetic ten-year-old son and an additional... Read More →
avatar for Krystal Nail

Krystal Nail

Director, Office of Accelerated Learning and Gifted Education, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Krystal Nail currently serves as the program director for the Office of Accelerated Learning and Gifted Education at the Arkansas Department of Education’s Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. With 20 years of experience in education in Arkansas, Krystal previously served... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Accelerated Learning

3:40pm CDT

AGFC’s Generation Conservation Summit: Inspiring the Next Generation of Conservationists
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
At the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, we believe that learning is rooted in experiences and competition. Join us as we discuss how we are transforming the way students can interact and gain firsthand experience with conservation and compete against schools all across the state through our Generation Conservation Summit.  This one-of-a-kind, FREE event is a way for your students to be...
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Speakers
avatar for Mary Beth Hatch

Mary Beth Hatch

Chief of Education, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
avatar for Larami Burge

Larami Burge

Generation Conservation Coordinator, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
  Instruction, Science

3:40pm CDT

Arkansas Imagination Library: The First High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) Arkansas Children Receive
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
Arkansas children begin developing the foundational skills for literacy long before they enter kindergarten. The Arkansas Imagination Library provides children from birth to age five with developmentally appropriate, high-quality books mailed directly to their homes each month—creating what may be the first High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) many children experience.This presentation...
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Speakers
avatar for Tammy Benson

Tammy Benson

Local Program Partner Director, Arkansas Imagination Library
Retirement happened to me last year after 34 years of teaching at the University of Central Arkansas.  However, I found the perfect part time position doing all the things I love.  My career focused on children, books, literacy and service.  Working with the local program partners... Read More →

Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
  Instruction, Literacy

3:40pm CDT

Lexile Explained
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
This session explores the Lexile Framework for Reading and the Quantile Framework for Mathematics as reported on the ATLAS exam and their practical applications across Arkansas. Participants will gain insights into how Lexile measures support literacy development and how Quantile measures support numeracy while aligning with state educational goals. The session will highlight effective use of the...
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Speakers
JW
JW
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Assessment

3:40pm CDT

MTSS by Design—Using the Science of Learning to Strengthen Support
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
This session connects the Science of Learning directly to effective MTSS implementation. Participants will explore how strong Tier 1 instruction anchors the system, how interventions should align—not compete—with core instruction, and how data informs movement across tiers. The focus is on building a coherent MTSS framework where instruction, assessment, and intervention work together to...
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Speakers
avatar for Amanda VanDerHeyden

Amanda VanDerHeyden

RISS Keynote Speaker, Spring Math
Dr. Amanda VanDerHeyden is a policy adviser and thought leader who actively conducts research focused on improving learning outcomes for students. In addition to publishing ten books and over 100 scholarly articles and chapters, she regularly delivers webinar, panel and keynote sessions... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Science of Learning

3:40pm CDT

Supporting Safe and Responsible AI Use in Schools
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
This session will introduce state‑developed AI guidance, a model policy, and a resource website to support safe, responsible AI use.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Griffin

Kelly Griffin

ADE Special Advisor, Arkansas Department of Education
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

3:40pm CDT

Writing to Learn in Math and Science: Expanding the Impact of The Writing Revolution
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Discover how The Writing Revolution (TWR) strengthens learning in math and science classrooms. This session highlights real examples of TWR strategies in action across grade levels, including high school, showing how structured writing supports reasoning, problem solving, and scientific thinking. Educators and administrators will see how brief, intentional writing tasks deepen comprehension,...
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Speakers
avatar for Alex Chalonec

Alex Chalonec

A former teacher, Alexandria is currently Co-Director of Academics at The Writing Revolution. In collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Education, Alexandria led an initiative working with educators to embed the Hochman Method into the state’s ELA curriculum for grades 3... Read More →
avatar for Kiersten Peltier

Kiersten Peltier

Senior Manager of Revolutionary Projects, The Writing Revolution
Kiersten Peltier, Senior Manager of Revolutionary Projects at The Writing Revolution, delivers courses and supports educators in implementing the Hochman Method into their curriculum. Specifically, she manages revolutionary projects, designed to support teachers in revolutionizing... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

3:40pm CDT

AR App: How to Read/Use/Collaborate Between General Education and Special Education
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Discover the essential special education data points districts should analyze when building their strategic plan using the AR App. This session highlights how targeted data review can help LEAs pinpoint critical focus areas and drive improved outcomes for all students.
Speakers
JH
HO
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

3:40pm CDT

Coordinated School Safety: Incident Communication Protocols and Building Design Considerations
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
This session will provide an overview of DESE’s School Safety Incident and Communication Protocol, explaining how Arkansas school districts, educational cooperatives, the Safe Schools Unit, and DESE leadership collaborate during school safety incidents and other significant events. Participants will learn how the tiered, bidirectional communication structure supports the clear, timely exchange...
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Speakers
avatar for Jason Weatherly, PhD

Jason Weatherly, PhD

Public Safety Supervisor / Expert, Arkansas Department of Education
Dr. Weatherly is an Arkansas native. He has completed trainings in various areas of school safety, including Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), School Safety Coordinator (Basic and Advanced), School Site Assessment and... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, School Safety

3:40pm CDT

On-Site & In-Coding: What to expect for accreditation in 2026-27
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Accreditation is getting a refresh. Come learn what DESE will be looking for on‑site and how next year’s process and timeline will work differently. Walk away with clarity, direction, and a head start on preparing your district.
Speakers
avatar for Matt Douglas

Matt Douglas

State Monitoring Support Specialist, Arkansas Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
avatar for Kristina Eisenhower

Kristina Eisenhower

Arkansas Department of Education
avatar for Dr. Jeanie Johnson

Dr. Jeanie Johnson

PSA Coordinator of Monitoring & Accreditation, ADE DESE
As Coordinator of Special Projects within the Office of Public School Accountability, I work alongside my team to support school districts across Arkansas in understanding and fulfilling their responsibilities under state and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Our unit provides... 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 →
CP
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

4:40pm CDT

District Team Debrief
Tuesday July 14, 2026 4:40pm - 5:40pm CDT
Horner Hall
School/District teams will have the opportunity to meet during this time and share what they learned.
Tuesday July 14, 2026 4:40pm - 5:40pm CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center
  General
 
Wednesday, July 15
 

7:30am CDT

Morning Snacks
Wednesday July 15, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby

Wednesday July 15, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

7:30am CDT

Registration Check-in
Wednesday July 15, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby

Wednesday July 15, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

8:30am CDT

KEYNOTE - Learning Evolution: The New Era of AI in the Classroom
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D
The rapid rise of generative AI will have a dramatic impact on how we teach and learn. "AI-enhanced" learning means gone are the days of focusing on a single product to measure student growth. Responsible and ethical use of AI in education should be a primary focus of schools going forward from grades K-20. In this interactive keynote, we'll discuss the ethical ramifications of AI and look at...
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Speakers
avatar for Carl Hooker

Carl Hooker

CEO, K12Leaders
Carl Hooker is an educator, consultant and speaker from Austin, TX. He spent the past 27 years as a teacher and administrator supporting the he has held a wide range of roles. From teacher to administrator, he’s always had one common belief – that kids need to drive their own... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D Hot Springs Convention Center
  Instruction, AI

10:20am CDT

Milestones: Navigating Licensure Updates, Pathways, and Progress Points
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
As the educator landscape evolves, staying informed on certification requirements is essential for maintaining a stable and qualified workforce. This session provides a comprehensive look at recent licensure updates and the diverse pathways available for educators to achieve full certification. We will analyze current unlicensed teacher data to identify critical gaps and introduce a strategic...
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Speakers
avatar for Matthew Sutherlin

Matthew Sutherlin

Director of Educator Preparation and Licensure, Educator Effectiveness and Licensure
Matthew Sutherlin brings over twenty-two years of experience in education, having served in both K–12 and higher education across four states. His career includes classroom teaching as well as leadership roles in higher education, where he has held positions such as Director, Department... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Licensure

10:20am CDT

Are You Smarter than an AI Chat bot?
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Based on the popular ESPN show “Around the Horn” - this interactive session features Carl as host and moderator in a game that pits 3 humans vs. 1 AI chat bot. Each contestant tries their best to give a one-minute hot take on a topic in education. The audience is a part of the action too as they post their own responses and give real-time votes for points for the panelists they most agree...
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Speakers
avatar for Carl Hooker

Carl Hooker

CEO, K12Leaders
Carl Hooker is an educator, consultant and speaker from Austin, TX. He spent the past 27 years as a teacher and administrator supporting the he has held a wide range of roles. From teacher to administrator, he’s always had one common belief – that kids need to drive their own... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

10:20am CDT

Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative: Leveraging State Partners for Outdoor Learning Success
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
The Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative is more than just a set of lessons—it is a statewide movement supported by a network of agencies. This session provides an overview of the many agencies and organizations ready to support your classroom. We will explore how to bridge the gap between school walls and our rich natural and civic resources. Whether you need a geologist to explain the Ozark...
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Speakers
avatar for Michele Snyder

Michele Snyder

State STEM Integration Specialist, Arkansas Department of Education Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
AR STEM Model Program, AR Ready for STEM Initiative, STEM Integration, Arts Integration, K-8 STEM career competencies
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Science

10:20am CDT

Closing the Research-to-Practice Gap
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Explore why syntax is a powerful but often overlooked key to comprehension and writing success. This session will highlight how teaching sentence-level skills in the elementary grades supports both reading and writing development. Participants will walk away with practical, ready-to-use strategies that can be integrated into existing curriculum materials to strengthen students’ sentence...
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Speakers
SC
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

10:20am CDT

Early Career Experiences: The Starting Point for Success Ready Graduates
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This session will highlight the importance of early career exploration for students in grades 5–8 and how intentional exposure to careers helps students make informed decisions about their future pathways. Participants will explore strategies outlined in the Career Readiness Guidebook that support building students’ awareness, exploration, and understanding of career opportunities and high...
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Speakers
avatar for Sunni Teale

Sunni Teale

Operations Manager, DCTE
avatar for Ross White

Ross White

Education Divison Administrator, ADE - DCTE - Office of Leadership
Ross White, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), brings a wealth of CTE experience and knowledge to the division. Before serving as vice principal at Siloam Springs High School, a position he has held since July 2019, White was the director of the school’s CTE program... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, CTE

10:20am CDT

Drowning in Data - Guide to State Data
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
State data can feel overwhelming—this session is designed to help administrators make sense of it all. Participants will gain an overview of the key state data collections, including what data is available, when it is released, and where to access it. The session will also highlight resources and tools to support effective use and interpretation of the data, helping school leaders move from...
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Speakers
avatar for Michelle Johnson

Michelle Johnson

Director of Assessment, Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
I currently serve as the Director of Assessment and School Performance for the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) in Arkansas. In this role, I am committed to ensuring all students have equitable access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. I... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

10:20am CDT

eSchool What You Need to Know for School Year 2027
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
During this session we will delve into the additions to state reporting requirements and changes to some eSchoolPLUS processes for 2026-2027. This session would benefit all eSchool data entry users.
Speakers
AJ
MT
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

10:20am CDT

Federal Programs: You Don't Know What You Don't Know
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Informational session for newcomers on basics of Title I, Title II, Title III, Title IV A & B, Title V, Homeless & Foster Students, Migrant Program, Equitable Services, & Paraprofessionals
Speakers
JG
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Federal Programs

10:20am CDT

Leading District Improvement
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
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 new district administrators ready to make a meaningful impact from day one.
Speakers
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 →
MT
avatar for Hope Worsham

Hope Worsham

Asst. Commissioner of Public School Accountability, DESE
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 →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

10:20am CDT

Using Performance for Focused Improvement From Reflection to Results
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
How leaders and boards use performance evidence to set priorities, monitor progress, and adjust early. High performing schools use performance data to drive focus—not confusion. This session reframes the Annual School Performance Summary and Improvement Priorities as a leadership and governance tool, not a compliance requirement. Participants will explore how effective schools translate...
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Speakers
avatar for Sarper Turker

Sarper Turker

Director of Charter Schools, Arkansas Department of Education
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

10:20am CDT

Let's Talk Behavior and Mental Health: Balancing Support, Expectations, and Access
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This panel will explore hot topics, common challenges, and emerging
trends in behavior and mental health. Panelists will discuss how to
coordinate supports across systems, align behavior and mental
health practices, and use available resources to better support students.
Speakers
avatar for Shelia Smith
avatar for Elizabeth Kindall

Elizabeth Kindall

Arkansas AWARE, Arkansas Department of Education
Betsy Kindall has served her years in education addressing the needs of at-risk youth. As a teacher, school counselor, behavior specialist, school-based mental heath coordinator, and ALE program advisor, Dr. Kindall has developed programs to create opportunities for children. Dr... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Student Support

10:20am CDT

Path to Purpose: Empowering At-Risk Youth through Innovative Education and Whole Child Healing
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Entering her 12th year with the Arkansas Division of Youth Services, Superintendent Cindy L. Willis brings over 22 years of educational leadership experience across Oklahoma and Arkansas. 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...
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Speakers
avatar for Cindy L. Willis

Cindy L. Willis

Education Superintendent, Division of Youth Services
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Student Support

10:20am CDT

Tier I Training
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 12:20pm CDT
TBA
ACA §6-20-2204 requires Superintendents and bookkeepers to attend a minimum of 2 hours of annual training on school laws, expenditure of school funds, fiscal accountability, school finance, ethics, and financial accounting and reporting. This class meets the requirements of the law. Additionally, school districts are required to provide 2 hours of Tier II training. Some districts choose to use...
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Speakers
avatar for Sharon Chuculate

Sharon Chuculate

Financial Services Coordinator, AR Association of Educational Administrtors
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 12:20pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Finance

11:40am CDT

Enhancing Instructional Practices Through Walkthrough Tools and Targeted Feedback
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
This session will explore the power of observation and walkthrough tools in providing actionable feedback to promote system coherence and instructional alignment. Participants will discuss how to effectively utilize the Key Levers for Instructional Leaders Tool and the TESS Framework to support school leaders in delivering high-quality, targeted feedback. Through interactive activities and...
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Speakers
avatar for Kiffany Pride

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education
Kiffany Pride currently serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Learning Services for Arkansas’ Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). With 27 years of experience, Dr. Pride has recently served as the Director of Curriculum and Assessment and RISE Assessor for the... Read More →
BB
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

11:40am CDT

Prepping for Success: EPPs and Preventing Ethics Complaints
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
This session will discuss Code of Ethics training and coursework as a part of educator preparation as well as other ways to prepare educators for success by preventing ethics complaints. Additionally, Capri Bell-Salaam, the 2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, will present her research regarding the role educator preparation programs play in prevention.
Speakers
avatar for Capri Salaam

Capri Salaam

2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Arkansas Department of Education

WJ

Whitney James

Managing Attorney, Professional Licensure Standards Board, Arkansas Department of Education
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

11:40am CDT

Buying Outcomes, Not Services: High-Impact Tutoring Contracts That Deliver Results
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
As states and districts expand High-Impact Tutoring (HIT), leaders are asking a critical question: Are we paying for tutoring time—or paying for student growth? This session explores how outcomes-based contracting (OBC) can shift tutoring procurement from purchasing hours and staffing to purchasing measurable results. Drawing on lessons from districts that piloted outcomes-based HIT contracts...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Counts

Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Since 2003, I have worked in K-12 education in Massachusetts, Texas, Maryland, and Arkansas. During that time, I have worked in both rural and urban school districts, teaching students in fifth to twelfth grade. In 2019, I joined the Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education... Read More →
avatar for Isaac Cross

Isaac Cross

Humanities Specialist, Arkansas Department of Education, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Isaac Cross serves as the Humanities Specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education, supporting statewide initiatives in social studies, community service learning, and Arkansas Celebrates America250. He brings experience as a classroom teacher, curriculum specialist, and higher education instru... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Goodwin

Sarah Goodwin

ELA & Course Advisor, ADE - DESE
Formerly a high school ELA teacher, I now serve on the Humanities team at the Arkansas Department of Education – Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (ADE-DESE). As the ELA & Course Advisor, I focus on secondary English Language Arts across the state and oversee course... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, High-Impact Tutoring

11:40am CDT

Nailed IT!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
In this highly interactive session, attendees will work to complete a series of challenges in a short time limit to see if they “Nailed it”. This session builds on the framework that taking risks can be a good thing when it
comes to creating and sharing ideas. Attendees will walk away with strategies to use in their schools when it comes to engaging learners and getting them to take risks.
Speakers
avatar for Carl Hooker

Carl Hooker

CEO, K12Leaders
Carl Hooker is an educator, consultant and speaker from Austin, TX. He spent the past 27 years as a teacher and administrator supporting the he has held a wide range of roles. From teacher to administrator, he’s always had one common belief – that kids need to drive their own... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

11:40am CDT

Right-Sizing Assessment: From Scores to Strategy
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
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 Michelle Johnson

Michelle Johnson

Director of Assessment, Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
I currently serve as the Director of Assessment and School Performance for the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) in Arkansas. In this role, I am committed to ensuring all students have equitable access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. I... Read More →
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 →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Assessment

11:40am CDT

The Essentials of Adolescent Literacy: Reading and Writing Instruction in Grades 5-12
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
The science of reading is not just for younger learners­—all adolescents in grades five to twelve, especially those who struggle with foundational skills, benefit from explicit literacy instruction. Drawing on current research, the first part of this session provides an overview to help secondary educators understand the unique aspects of adolescent literacy. Topics include the three levels of...
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Speakers
SC
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

11:40am CDT

The Power of Practice: How Coaching Labs Elevate Math & Science Instruction
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
In this session, we’ll share compelling growth data from classrooms across the state, highlight the instructional shifts teachers are making through lab participation, and unpack what makes this model so effective. Whether you're looking to strengthen your own coaching practice, instructional practice or support growth in your school or district, you’ll walk away with a clear picture of how...
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Speakers
avatar for Katie Chacon

Katie Chacon

Science Program Manager, Arkansas Department of Education
Katie Chacon obtained a bachelors degree from Hendrix College in Environmental Studies, a masters degree in Middle Childhood Education from the University of Arkansas Little Rock, and an Education Specialist degree from Arkansas State University. She taught middle school science for... Read More →
TF
SM
avatar for Kisa Morman

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Kisa Morman, a native of Little Rock, is a K–12 Math School Program Manager with over 20 years in education. She is passionate about helping all students build confidence in math by mastering numeracy, accessing effective interventions, and engaging in problem-solving to foster... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Math, Science

11:40am CDT

Learning Conditions That Drive School Performance How Leadership Shapes the Conditions for Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
How leadership decisions, adult practice, and systems create—or constrain—student success. Student success depends on the conditions adults create for learning. This session focuses on how leadership decisions, adult practice, and organizational design shape instructional quality, workforce stability, and overall school performance. Participants will examine how clarity of expectations,...
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Speakers
avatar for Sarper Turker

Sarper Turker

Director of Charter Schools, Arkansas Department of Education
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

11:40am CDT

My School Info: Explore Public Data for Schools and Districts
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
My School Info brings multiple data sources together, allowing anyone with online access to search and compare public schools and districts across Arkansas. Come learn how easy it is to navigate the system and explore the newly redesigned school and district report cards. These updates reflect Arkansas’s latest accountability system, including the first-ever publication of district letter...
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Speakers
avatar for Jeff Killingsworth

Jeff Killingsworth

Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, Arkansas Department of Education
Jeff Killingsworth was privileged to be in the classroom for 12 years, teaching a variety of math and science classes from kindergarten through eighth grade, before joining the Arkansas Department of Education. He is currently the Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, and... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

11:40am CDT

The More You Ask, the More You Know (lingering questions on Federal Programs)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Give audience opportunity to ask questions they have from attending You Don't Know What You Don't Know session
Speakers
JG
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Federal Programs

11:40am CDT

What's on the Menu? Interactions
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
Arkansas is currently in a CLASS pilot year.  As Local Leads, part of our job is to go into all publicly funded classrooms, provide a CLASS assessment, and support programs in building positive, meaningful interactions. The four presenters for this season have collectively completed more than 150 CLASS observations in the last year and a half across infant, toddler, and pre-K settings. We...
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Speakers
avatar for Wendy Green

Wendy Green

Local Lead, Crowley's Ridge Educational Service Cooperative
avatar for Chrissy Sain

Chrissy Sain

Local Leads, Northeast Arkansas Education Cooperative
avatar for Jodi Whitman

Jodi Whitman

Senior Director, Partnerships, LENA
Jodi Whiteman, M.Ed., CEIM, IMH-E® is the Senior Director of Partnerships at LENA. In this position she supports early childhood programs, organizations and states to transform children’s future through early talk technology and data-driven programs. She has over 25 years of experience in the early childhood field... Read More →
KN

Katlin Niemeyer

Local Leads Captain, SWAEC
avatar for Shasta Pentecost

Shasta Pentecost

Local Lead, Dawson Education Cooperative
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
  Operations, Early Childhood

1:00pm CDT

What High Growth Principals Know and Do
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Join principals leading high growth schools for a panel discussion of the strategies behind their success. Facilitation will review school-wide discipline, instructional practices, and student attendance plus a question and answer segment with the audience.
Speakers
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

1:00pm CDT

AGFC’s School of Conservation Leadership: Building a Culture of Conservation
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Join AGFC staff as we discuss the Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative and the role that the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission plays in bringing conservation education to schools across the state.  We will share success stories through our first two years, discuss the requirements to earn a School of Conservation Leadership designation, and how we can help build a culture of outdoor...
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Speakers
avatar for Mary Beth Hatch

Mary Beth Hatch

Chief of Education, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
avatar for Derek Ratchford

Derek Ratchford

Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative Manager, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission
Derek Ratchford is the Manager of the Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. Through this position, he empowers teachers as they introduce STEM and conservation statewide.  He transitioned to AGFC after spending ten years in public education... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Science

1:00pm CDT

AI to Support Student Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session explores how district leaders can evaluate the instructional impact of emerging AI tools in K–12 education. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of how AI systems work and examine a practical framework for determining whether an AI implementation is likely to meaningfully support student learning—rather than simply automate existing practices.
Speakers
AM

Adam Musto

Director of Computer Science Education, Arkansas Department of Education
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

1:00pm CDT

Bridging State and National Expectations: Arkansas's AI Alignment Study with NAEP
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session highlights Arkansas’s AI-supported alignment study comparing Arkansas Academic Standards with the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) frameworks, conducted in partnership with Prometrics. Holly Morado, NAEP State Coordinator, along with Kisa Morman and Amber Pirnique from Learning Services will walk participants through the alignment process, including how artificial...
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Speakers
avatar for Holly Morado

Holly Morado

NAEP State Coordinator, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education - Public School Accountability
avatar for Kisa Morman

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Kisa Morman, a native of Little Rock, is a K–12 Math School Program Manager with over 20 years in education. She is passionate about helping all students build confidence in math by mastering numeracy, accessing effective interventions, and engaging in problem-solving to foster... Read More →
avatar for Amber Pirnique

Amber Pirnique

DIrector of Special Projects, Arkansas Department of Education
Amber Pirnique serves as Director of Special Projects for the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), leading priority, cross‑agency initiatives that advance statewide goals in literacy, coaching, and system support. Her portfolio includes The Writing Revolution... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Assessment

1:00pm CDT

Navigating the Updated Early Childhood HQIM Curriculum List and Submission Requirements
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session offers a concise overview of the new updates to the HQIM Approved Curriculum List, the changes to the curriculum review process, and the next steps programs should take to deepen their understanding of HQIM expectations. Participants will leave with clear guidance to support informed curriculum selection and alignment with state quality standards.
Speakers
KH
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Early Learning

1:00pm CDT

The Writing Revolution: Explicit Writing Instruction in Service of Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
A Writing Revolution is underway in Arkansas! DESE is continuing its partnership with The Writing Revolution (TWR) for a fifth year, offering Advancing Thinking Through Writing I to K–12 educators across all content areas. This session introduces the Hochman Method—a research-based approach to strengthening student writing through content-rich instruction. Participants will explore practical...
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Speakers
avatar for Alex Chalonec

Alex Chalonec

A former teacher, Alexandria is currently Co-Director of Academics at The Writing Revolution. In collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Education, Alexandria led an initiative working with educators to embed the Hochman Method into the state’s ELA curriculum for grades 3... Read More →
avatar for Kiersten Peltier

Kiersten Peltier

Senior Manager of Revolutionary Projects, The Writing Revolution
Kiersten Peltier, Senior Manager of Revolutionary Projects at The Writing Revolution, delivers courses and supports educators in implementing the Hochman Method into their curriculum. Specifically, she manages revolutionary projects, designed to support teachers in revolutionizing... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

1:00pm CDT

Booting Up: A New eSchool Administrator for Success
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
If you are a new eSchool System Administrator, join us for an insightful session where we’ll provide an overview of key responsibilities, essential resources, and practical tips to help you and your district set a strong foundation for success.
Speakers
avatar for Debbie Featherston

Debbie Featherston

APSCN Field Analyst, ADE

Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

1:00pm CDT

Hot Topics with ADE Leadership
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Horner Hall
Join members of the ADE leadership team as they discuss hot topics in education in Arkansas.
Speakers
avatar for Kiffany Pride

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education
Kiffany Pride currently serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Learning Services for Arkansas’ Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). With 27 years of experience, Dr. Pride has recently served as the Director of Curriculum and Assessment and RISE Assessor for the... Read More →
AA
BB
avatar for Matt Sewell

Matt Sewell

Assistant Commissioner, DESE
avatar for Stacy Smith

Stacy Smith

Deputy Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education
Stacy Smith is a dedicated education professional currently serving as the Deputy Commissioner for the Arkansas Department of Education. With a passion for improving education in the state for all students and educators alike, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the state's educational... Read More →
avatar for Darrell Smith

Darrell Smith

Assistant Commissioner of School Choice & Parent Empowerment, Arkansas Department of Education
Darrell Smith has been involved in education for over 30 years. He spent almost 20 years in Arkansas serving as a teacher, principal, and administrator, helping to lead one of the largest private schools in the country to National Blue Ribbon status. He has recently led a number of... Read More →
avatar for Ross White

Ross White

Education Divison Administrator, ADE - DCTE - Office of Leadership
Ross White, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), brings a wealth of CTE experience and knowledge to the division. Before serving as vice principal at Siloam Springs High School, a position he has held since July 2019, White was the director of the school’s CTE program... Read More →
avatar for Hope Worsham

Hope Worsham

Asst. Commissioner of Public School Accountability, DESE
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 →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center
  Operations

1:00pm CDT

Keeping Schools Running: Cybersecurity Incidents, Impacts, and Action Steps
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Join the Arkansas Department of Education, in partnership with the State Cybersecurity Office, to explore some of the most frequent cybersecurity incidents reported through the Arkansas Legislative Audit and the ADE’s history of events. This session highlights real-world scenarios that have compromised systems, exposed sensitive data, and disrupted district operations, while examining the common...
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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 →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations

1:00pm CDT

Schools on the Move
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session will spotlight schools that have demonstrated improvement in their school ratings and highlight the strategies and practices that contributed to their success. Participants will hear directly about what these schools focused on, the changes they implemented, and how they used data, systems, and collaboration to drive improvement—offering practical insights that can be applied in...
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Speakers
CB
avatar for Kristina Eisenhower

Kristina Eisenhower

Arkansas Department of Education
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

1:00pm CDT

Staffing with Intention: Understanding Long‑Term Budget Impacts
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Staffing decisions are among the most consequential choices district leaders make. With salaries and benefits comprising the majority of a district’s operating budget, even small staffing changes can have long‑term fiscal implications that extend well beyond a single budget year. This session is designed for superintendents, school business managers, and principals who play a role in staffing...
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Speakers
avatar for Jason Miller

Jason Miller

Office of Coordinated Support and Services/ Leadership Development & Fiscal Services, Arkansas Department of Education
Jason Miller currently serves as a State Leadership Development Coach at the Arkansas Department of Education, where he provides statewide guidance on district operations, school finance, effective use of personnel, and resource management. 

Mr. Miller specializes in budget development, internal controls, and strategic resource use, delivering professional development and fiscal guidance to superintendents, CFOs, and district leaders. He also plays a key role in evaluating the financial health of districts and analyzing... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Finance

1:00pm CDT

Every Day Counts: Leveraging the New Guidance Document to Reduce Chronic Absenteeism
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Chronic absenteeism is more than an attendance issue—it is a leading indicator of student disengagement, academic risk, and long-term outcomes. In Every Day Counts, participants will explore why consistent attendance matters and how schools and districts can move from reactive responses to proactive, systems-based solutions. This session introduces the newly released guidance document and walks...
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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 absenteeism
2) Doctoral program at Southern Arkansas University
3) District-Level Educational Leadership
4) Campus-Level Educational Leadership
5) Arkansas Education Renewal Zones
6) School Improvement Plans
7) Yo... Read More →
avatar for Capri Salaam

Capri Salaam

2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Arkansas Department of Education

Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Student Support

2:00pm CDT

Afternoon Snacks
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Grand Lobby

Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

2:20pm CDT

Arkansas Teacher Registered Apprenticeship
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
In this session, you will explore the Arkansas Teacher Registered Apprenticeship, an innovative, evidence-based approach to educator development aimed at tackling teacher shortages across the state. This program offers a work-based learning opportunity, where approved apprentices receive high-quality instruction through accredited educator programs while simultaneously working within a...
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Speakers
BB
KL
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Licensure

2:20pm CDT

Code of Ethics: Data Update and Processes as Prevention
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
In this session, PLSB managing attorney, Whitney James, and PLSB Chief Investigator, Laura Shelton, will provide updated data from the Professional Licensure Standards Board, review processes, specifically for submitting allegations and 24-Hour Standard 1 forms, and discuss how these processes can prevent future violations of the Code of Ethics.
Speakers
WJ

Whitney James

Managing Attorney, Professional Licensure Standards Board, Arkansas Department of Education
avatar for Laura Shelton

Laura Shelton

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


Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

2:20pm CDT

Leading Engagement: Bridging Adult Learning and Student Experience
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
How we lead adult learning often mirrors what happens in classrooms. This session invites participants to examine the connection between engaging meetings and engaging instruction. Using facilitation strategies grounded in collaboration and inquiry, participants will explore how to design learning experiences that foster ownership, reflection, and active participation—for both educators and...
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Speakers
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 →
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 →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

2:20pm CDT

Arkansas STEM Model Program
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
Learn about the benefits of being a STEM school and how schools are designated as model STEM schools in Arkansas. Meet the school leaders who are doing this well in designated model schools from rural, urban and suburban PreK - 12 schools across the state.
Speakers
avatar for Michele Snyder

Michele Snyder

State STEM Integration Specialist, Arkansas Department of Education Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
AR STEM Model Program, AR Ready for STEM Initiative, STEM Integration, Arts Integration, K-8 STEM career competencies
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Math, Science

2:20pm CDT

Charting the Course: From Pre-K Play to ATLAS Success
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
Set your students up for success on the ATLAS screener by bridging the gap between preschool and kindergarten. This session breaks down how to use CDELS standards and HQIM curricula to target essential readiness skills. We’ll also show how CLASS interactions turn everyday moments into powerful learning opportunities that ensure every child walks into kindergarten confident and prepared. - Wendy...
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Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Douglas

Jennifer Douglas

Early Childhood Program Administrator, ADE: DESE Office of Early Childhood
avatar for Wendy Green

Wendy Green

Local Lead, Crowley's Ridge Educational Service Cooperative
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Assessment, Early Learning

2:20pm CDT

From Grant to Growth: What High-Impact Tutoring Looks Like in Practice
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
High-impact tutoring is one of the most effective strategies for accelerating student learning—but only when implemented with intention. This session highlights how Arkansas districts are translating high-impact tutoring guidance into daily practice. Participants will explore real examples of scheduling, staffing, and instructional alignment, as well as lessons learned from early implementation....
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Counts

Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Since 2003, I have worked in K-12 education in Massachusetts, Texas, Maryland, and Arkansas. During that time, I have worked in both rural and urban school districts, teaching students in fifth to twelfth grade. In 2019, I joined the Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education... Read More →
AH
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, High-Impact Tutoring

2:20pm CDT

New ATLAS Writing Rubric
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
Join us for an engaging educational summit introducing the new ATLAS Assessment Writing Rubric—a shared framework designed to bring clarity, consistency, and rigor to student writing. Together, we’ll explore how the rubric can strengthens instruction, support meaningful feedback, and elevates expectations across classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Andress Scott

Andress Scott

RISE State Specialist, DESE
avatar for Kelly Stone

Kelly Stone

RISE Specialist, Arkansas Department of Education
JW
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Assessment, Literacy

2:20pm CDT

Planning for AI: Insights from District Leaders
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
District educators will share firsthand experiences developing AI plans to meet their local needs. The panel will explore planning processes, stakeholder involvement, and considerations around instruction, governance, and responsible use.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Griffin

Kelly Griffin

ADE Special Advisor, Arkansas Department of Education
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

2:20pm CDT

Teaching (and Learning) Concurrently: Pathways for Educators and Acceleration for Students
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
Concurrent enrollment is no longer just an "extra" in Arkansas; it is a critical pillar of the state’s acceleration and workforce strategy. As these opportunities expand, school and district leaders must navigate the intersection of secondary and postsecondary standards. This session provides an overview of how state agencies, institutions of higher education, and schools can build local...
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Speakers
avatar for Mason Campbell

Mason Campbell

Assistant Director for Policy and Student Success, Arkansas Division of Higher Education
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Accelerated Learning

2:20pm CDT

Unlocking Learning: An Introduction to the Science of Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
How can thoughtful instructional design improve student learning outcomes?
This session provides an overview of the Science of Learning and explores how research-based instructional decisions can strengthen student understanding, retention, and transfer of knowledge. Participants will examine key terms, foundational research, and the cognitive principles that inform effective teaching practices.
Speakers
JH
JH
BM
BS
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Science of Learning

2:20pm CDT

On-Site & In-Coding: What to expect for accreditation in 2026-27
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
Accreditation is getting a refresh. Come learn what DESE will be looking for on‑site and how next year’s process and timeline will work differently. Walk away with clarity, direction, and a head start on preparing your district.
Speakers
avatar for Matt Douglas

Matt Douglas

State Monitoring Support Specialist, Arkansas Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
avatar for Kristina Eisenhower

Kristina Eisenhower

Arkansas Department of Education
avatar for Dr. Jeanie Johnson

Dr. Jeanie Johnson

PSA Coordinator of Monitoring & Accreditation, ADE DESE
As Coordinator of Special Projects within the Office of Public School Accountability, I work alongside my team to support school districts across Arkansas in understanding and fulfilling their responsibilities under state and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Our unit provides... 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 →
CP
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

2:20pm CDT

SPED Finance 101
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
This session will highlight essential Special Education fiscal obligations that LEAs face on an annual basis, including High-Cost Occurrence, Maintenance of Effort, and related requirements. The Office of Special Education will also share available supports and resources designed to assist LEAs in maintaining compliance and effectively managing Special Education fiscal responsibilities.
Speakers
JH
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Finance

2:20pm CDT

Healthy Students, Higher Achievement: Leveraging School Health Data for Classroom Success
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
This session will provide an overview of the current health status of Arkansas public school students and highlight how districts can leverage key data sources, including the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), School Health Profiles, and Medicaid in the Schools reporting, to identify emerging needs and inform strategic decision-making.
Speakers
avatar for Dana Bennett

Dana Bennett

Assistant Director, Medicaid In The Schools, DESE
As always, we have some great swag, so come by and see us and let us talk to you about your Medicaid funds, and how we can help you! As part of the School Health Services Unit at DESE, we are here to serve you at no charge. Please take advantage of our knowledge and expertise.   MISSION... Read More →
avatar for Taylor James

Taylor James

CDC Surveillance Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education
Taylor James is the CDC Surveillance Coordinator at the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE/DESE), where he has served since 2024. In this role, Taylor supports two CDC‑funded programs—the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), administered in odd‑numbered years, and School H... Read More →
avatar for Cheria McDonald

Cheria McDonald

State School Nurse Consultant, DESE/ADE
Cheria McDonald has been a nurse for 31 years graduating from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas and recently from Arkansas State University, Jonesboro with her MSN with an education focus. For the last 17 years she has been in the education setting. She was a... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Student Support

3:40pm CDT

Exceptional Growth - Instructional Strategies to Grow Students and Teachers
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Three Arkansas teachers who achieved high student growth scores will share the strategies that drive their success. All three teachers received merit pay for the 2024-25 school year and were selected as Arkansas Excellence in Teaching fellows for the 2025-26 school year.
Moderators
avatar for Capri Salaam

Capri Salaam

2023 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Arkansas Department of Education

Speakers
CA

Cheron Atkins-Butcher

Teacher, PCSSD
avatar for Kimberly Herdes
LP

Lou Petrone

Algebra Teacher - Woodland Jr High, Fayetteville School District
Algebra just makes sense...   After 10 years of banking in New York, Dallas, Sydney and Hong Kong, my wife and I migrated to Fayetteville.  I love teaching Algebra and believe we underestimate how much our students can achieve.  My lessons are problem based with challenges that... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

3:40pm CDT

AI in Student Writing: Preventing Plagiarism + Enabling Responsible Use
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Student-facing AI can support inquiry and learning, but also risks AI plagiarism in writing assignments. We must find a way to preserve authentic learning AND enable students to use AI responsibly. Come see how you can do this with Scrible, the world’s first “show your work” writing process platform. It mitigates AI plagiarism by making the writing process visible to teachers and shifting...
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Speakers
avatar for Victor Karkar

Victor Karkar

CEO, Scrible
Scrible is an award winning all-in-one research and writing platform where students can collect sources, annotate, organize ideas, and draft in one workspace. It supports writing with citation capture, bibliography and outline editors and Google Docs and Microsoft Word integration... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

3:40pm CDT

AI Playbook: From Awareness to Action
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
AI is already in your classrooms, now what? This session breaks down what artificial intelligence really is, how it’s reshaping instruction and leadership, and what AI literacy must include at every level of a school system. Participants will explore real-world implications for academic integrity, instructional practice, and district policy, then walk away with practical steps schools can take...
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Speakers
avatar for Rainbow Bagsby

Rainbow Bagsby

UX Design Specialist, Virtual Arkansas
Rainbow Bagsby is the UX Design Specialist at Virtual Arkansas (VA) with 12 years of experience in online education. At Virtual Arkansas, Rainbow has designed and developed numerous courses and project managed the creation of the Department of Career and Technical Education’s Blended... Read More →
avatar for Candice McPherson

Candice McPherson

Director of Design and Development, Virtual Arkansas
Candice McPherson is the Director of Design and Development at Virtual Arkansas. Her role includes project management, quality control, and implementation support for course content. She has served on a variety of teams and committees devoted to improving online learning experiences... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

3:40pm CDT

Math Basic Facts
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
In this session, participants will dig into what really sets fluency apart from automaticity and why that difference matters in the classroom. We’ll take a close look at fluency expectations and talk through the kinds of routines, practices, and structures that actually help fluency grow.
Speakers
avatar for Kisa Morman

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Kisa Morman, a native of Little Rock, is a K–12 Math School Program Manager with over 20 years in education. She is passionate about helping all students build confidence in math by mastering numeracy, accessing effective interventions, and engaging in problem-solving to foster... Read More →
avatar for Jeffrey Nesmith

Jeffrey Nesmith

Central Region Math Specialist, DESE
avatar for Britney Nalley

Britney Nalley

State Math Specialist, DESE
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
  Instruction, Math

3:40pm CDT

Outcomes-Based Tutoring Contracts: What Worked in District Pilots
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Many tutoring contracts focus on inputs—minutes, sessions, and staffing—without clearly tying services to student success. In this session, participants will learn how districts can use outcomes-based contracting to prioritize measurable growth and accountability in High-Impact Tutoring. Using real pilot experiences from districts that implemented outcomes-based tutoring contracts this year,...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Counts

Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Since 2003, I have worked in K-12 education in Massachusetts, Texas, Maryland, and Arkansas. During that time, I have worked in both rural and urban school districts, teaching students in fifth to twelfth grade. In 2019, I joined the Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, High-Impact Tutoring

3:40pm CDT

We’ve Trained Our Teachers—Now What? Making The Writing Revolution Stick
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Training is just the beginning. This session focuses on how schools and districts can get the most out of Writing Revolution training through intentional implementation. Participants will explore how to embed TWR strategies within HQIM, leverage AI-supported tools in the TWR digital library, and use the administrator dashboard to monitor progress and support teachers. The session also features...
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Speakers
avatar for Alex Chalonec

Alex Chalonec

A former teacher, Alexandria is currently Co-Director of Academics at The Writing Revolution. In collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Education, Alexandria led an initiative working with educators to embed the Hochman Method into the state’s ELA curriculum for grades 3... Read More →
avatar for Kiersten Peltier

Kiersten Peltier

Senior Manager of Revolutionary Projects, The Writing Revolution
Kiersten Peltier, Senior Manager of Revolutionary Projects at The Writing Revolution, delivers courses and supports educators in implementing the Hochman Method into their curriculum. Specifically, she manages revolutionary projects, designed to support teachers in revolutionizing... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

3:40pm CDT

Target Setting for the New IDEA Part B Package with MySPED and eSchool Resources.
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
When schools Decide, Align, Teach, and Communicate with shared direction over time, access becomes more durable and less fragile. This session focuses on how sustained attention across these actions shapes students’ long‑term opportunity and post‑graduation readiness.
Speakers
avatar for Laura Goadrich

Laura Goadrich

Director of IDEA Data and Research, Arkansas Department of Education
Office of Special Education 
avatar for Becky McIver

Becky McIver

State Improvement Plan Coordinator, Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

3:40pm CDT

What do your state reporting reports tell you?
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
This session will explain what goes into defining and understanding how reports are produced for state reporting
Speakers
MH

Mary Heginger

User Support Coordinator, DESE-Public School Accountability-APSCN
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

4:40pm CDT

District Team Debrief
Wednesday July 15, 2026 4:40pm - 5:40pm CDT
Horner Hall
School/District teams will have the opportunity to meet during this time and share what they learned.
Wednesday July 15, 2026 4:40pm - 5:40pm CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center
  General
 
Thursday, July 16
 

7:30am CDT

Morning Snacks
Thursday July 16, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby

Thursday July 16, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

7:30am CDT

Registration Check-in
Thursday July 16, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby

Thursday July 16, 2026 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Grand Lobby Hot Springs Convention Center
  General

8:30am CDT

KEYNOTE - Stronger Together: The Power of Connection
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D
Great schools are built on strong relationships—not just between teachers and students, but among staff, families, and communities. This keynote explores how cultivating connection at every level leads to more resilient, supportive learning environments.
Speakers
avatar for Jeanie Wilcoxon

Jeanie Wilcoxon

2025 Arkansas Teacher of the Year
Jeanie Wilcoxon is a fourth‑grade math teacher in the Pulaski County Special School District with 25 years of experience in education. In recognition of her impact in the classroom and her dedication to the teaching profession, Wilcoxon was named the 2025 Arkansas Teacher of the... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Exhibit Halls C & D Hot Springs Convention Center
  Student Support

10:20am CDT

Turning “Gotcha” into “I’ve Got You!”
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
TESS and LEADS support a continuous cycle of learning for educators and leaders throughout the observation and feedback process. This session will share updates of the Educator Effectiveness System regarding pre/post observations questions and a refined feedback protocol developed during the Calibration pilot and summer learning series
Speakers
PP

Pearce Peacock

Evaluation State Support Specialist, DESE
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

10:20am CDT

Accelerating Student Success: Updates to Accelerated Learning in Arkansas
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This session provides a comprehensive overview of Arkansas’s vision for accelerated learning and how it translates into actionable practice across schools and districts to support student success. Participants will revisit the foundational goals of accelerated learning before exploring key components of the Accelerated Learning Guide, including accelerated learning options, teacher...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez

Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez

Director of Student Support Services, ADE-DESE
Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez is a native of San Diego de Alejandría, Jalisco, México. She has been a proud Arkansan since 1998. Her husband, Adelso, is a native of Belize and they have a beautiful, blended family, together they have an energetic ten-year-old son and an additional... Read More →
avatar for Krystal Nail

Krystal Nail

Director, Office of Accelerated Learning and Gifted Education, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Krystal Nail currently serves as the program director for the Office of Accelerated Learning and Gifted Education at the Arkansas Department of Education’s Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. With 20 years of experience in education in Arkansas, Krystal previously served... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Accelerated Learning

10:20am CDT

Algebra 1 Readiness
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This one-hour session highlights the essential skills that support Algebra 1 readiness and the classroom data levers that most effectively reveal student needs. Participants will learn how simple, everyday data can guide targeted instruction and strengthen students’ pathway to Algebra 1 success.
Speakers
avatar for Ciara Gulley

Ciara Gulley

State Math Specialist, ADE
Ciara Gulley is a highly motivated and student-centered educational leader with a strong foundation in secondary mathematics education and a passion for advancing student success. Currently serving as a State Mathematics Specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education, Ciara... Read More →
avatar for Kisa Morman

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Kisa Morman, a native of Little Rock, is a K–12 Math School Program Manager with over 20 years in education. She is passionate about helping all students build confidence in math by mastering numeracy, accessing effective interventions, and engaging in problem-solving to foster... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Math

10:20am CDT

Beyond Integrity: Designing Learning for an AI-Integrated Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
In this interactive session, we’ll explore how Virtual Arkansas is tackling AI-driven academic integrity and rethinking traditional approaches to plagiarism and assessments. But AI isn’t just changing how students work, it’s also becoming a powerful assistant for teachers. From streamlining feedback to enhancing lesson planning, AI can support educators in creating more meaningful, engaging...
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Speakers
avatar for Paula McDougald

Paula McDougald

Lead Course Design Specialist, Virtual Arkansas
Paula McDougald joined Virtual Arkansas in 2015 as a high school math teacher and transitioned to the design department in 2018. Now the Assistant Director of Design and Development, she manages course design projects and oversees organizational branding. With 19 years in education... Read More →
BS
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, AI

10:20am CDT

Grow Your Readers: 3rd-Grade Promotion and Engaging Families for Success
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This session will support district leaders and educators in strengthening family engagement to successfully implement 3rd-Grade Promotion. Participants will explore effective practices, hear from a district demonstrating strong implementation, and reflect on Year 1 wins and challenges. The session will also focus on planning for Beginning-of-Year (BOY) rollout. Key topics include building trust...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Counts

Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Since 2003, I have worked in K-12 education in Massachusetts, Texas, Maryland, and Arkansas. During that time, I have worked in both rural and urban school districts, teaching students in fifth to twelfth grade. In 2019, I joined the Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

10:20am CDT

SPED Hot Topics
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This session of panelists from the DESE Office of Special Education will highlight updates, current trends, and hot topics in the following areas of special education: Monitoring and Program Effectiveness, Dispute Resolution, Early Childhood, Fiscal Oversight, Assessment & Curriculum, and Training and Professional Development.
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Adams

Jeff Adams

Director of Special Programs, Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
avatar for Becky Bell

Becky Bell

Coordinator of Assessment & Curriculum, DESE-OSE
YG

Yvonne Greene

Arkansas Department of Education
JH
avatar for Becky McIver

Becky McIver

State Improvement Plan Coordinator, Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
RP
avatar for Melissa McClendon

Melissa McClendon

Educational Specialist, DESE-State Personnel Development Grant
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Special Education

10:20am CDT

Third-Grade Promotion
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
Exhibit Hall B
This session offers an overview of the third-grade promotion law, emphasizing state requirements, available resources, and district support for meeting deadlines. Participants will examine literacy as a shared responsibility to ensure all students achieve reading proficiency by third grade. The session also covers prevention and support strategies for K-3 students, reviews good cause exemptions,...
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Speakers
avatar for Kiffany Pride

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education
Kiffany Pride currently serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Learning Services for Arkansas’ Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). With 27 years of experience, Dr. Pride has recently served as the Director of Curriculum and Assessment and RISE Assessor for the... Read More →
avatar for Sandy Shepard

Sandy Shepard

Lead State RISE Specialist, Arkansas Department of Education
In her 35th year in education, Sandy Shepard partners with districts to align K-5 ELA instruction with the Science of Reading and Arkansas standards.
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
Exhibit Hall B Hot Springs Convention Center
  Instruction, Literacy

10:20am CDT

Transforming CTE: From Pathways to Durable Skills That Drive Arkansas Forward
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
CTE in Arkansas is evolving—from simply offering pathways to intentionally developing durable skills that prepare students for long-term success. In this session, participants will explore how Success-Ready Pathways and durable skills align with workforce needs and the LEARNS Act. Walk away with practical strategies to strengthen programs, elevate messaging, and ensure students are truly...
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Speakers
avatar for Ross White

Ross White

Education Divison Administrator, ADE - DCTE - Office of Leadership
Ross White, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), brings a wealth of CTE experience and knowledge to the division. Before serving as vice principal at Siloam Springs High School, a position he has held since July 2019, White was the director of the school’s CTE program... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, CTE

10:20am CDT

eSchool What You Need to Know for School Year 2027
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
During this session we will delve into the additions to state reporting requirements and changes to some eSchoolPLUS processes for 2026-2027. This session would benefit all eSchool data entry users.
Speakers
AJ
MT
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

10:20am CDT

Growing vs. growth - what's the difference
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
This session will focus on the important difference between doing better on a test and meeting individual student growth targets. Participants will explore the distinction between proficiency gains and value-added growth, including how the value-added growth score is calculated and what it truly measures. By unpacking common misconceptions, this session will help educators better understand how...
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Speakers
avatar for Hope Worsham

Hope Worsham

Asst. Commissioner of Public School Accountability, DESE
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 →
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

10:20am CDT

Web Content and Mobile Apps: Updated Federal Requirements for Arkansas Public Schools
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Join a discussion on new standards for web content and mobile apps recently established by the Department of Justice under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This session will provide an overview of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines as well as federal compliance deadlines (April 2026/2027). Explore how these requirements impact district implementation of social media, website...
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Speakers
avatar for Jeff Killingsworth

Jeff Killingsworth

Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, Arkansas Department of Education
Jeff Killingsworth was privileged to be in the classroom for 12 years, teaching a variety of math and science classes from kindergarten through eighth grade, before joining the Arkansas Department of Education. He is currently the Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, and... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Legal

10:20am CDT

What Districts Miss in Attracting Talent: Stealing Recuritment & Rentention Ideas from the Private Sector
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Attracting and retaining talent is a crucial challenge for many districts. Based on the SchoolCEO multigenerational study of teachers, you will learn key misconceptions about recruiting teachers, what your prospective staff is actually looking for, and private sector best practices on how to stand out.
Speakers
CC

Caitlyn Carroll

Business Development Representative, Apptegy

Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations

11:40am CDT

From Crisis to Capability: Making Progress towards School and District Turnaround
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Failure is not inevitable. This high-impact, one-hour session provides school and district leaders with research-backed actions for sustainable transformation. This presentation focuses on the "radical improvement" required to shift school environment, instruction, and results. By the end of this session, attendees will be able to view their school or district through the following lenses:...
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Speakers
DX

Dr. Xavier M. Hodo, Sr.

Superintendent, Helena - West Helena School District
JW

John West

Leadership Development Coach, AR Dept. of Ed.
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

11:40am CDT

Year-Long Residency: Livin’ that Teacher Life
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Experience the 'teacher life' before the first day of school. This session explores the impact of year-long residencies on candidate confidence and classroom effectiveness. A discussion of implementing successful residency programs that benefit both the aspiring educator and the students they serve, ensuring a smoother transition from pre-service candidate to professional practitioner. Early...
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Speakers
avatar for Matthew Sutherlin

Matthew Sutherlin

Director of Educator Preparation and Licensure, Educator Effectiveness and Licensure
Matthew Sutherlin brings over twenty-two years of experience in education, having served in both K–12 and higher education across four states. His career includes classroom teaching as well as leadership roles in higher education, where he has held positions such as Director, Department... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Recruitment & Retention

11:40am CDT

AI for Learning: Instant Insights, Stronger Instruction, Better Results
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
Discover how AI-powered tools can turn school and district data into clear, actionable insight for everyday practice in the classroom. This session will show how AI helps align curriculum, assessments, and professional learning to state standards and state test blueprints so educators can close learning gaps, strengthen instruction, reduce manual data work, and support student success.Join a...
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Speakers
avatar for Melissa Gutierrez

Melissa Gutierrez

K–12 Implementation Consultant, Prometric LLC
avatar for Greg Manzi

Greg Manzi

Product Manager, K–12, Prometric, LLC
Current Manager, Product Development K12, leading the roadmap and development of EdInsights, the K12 Prometric Pathways unified intelligence, reporting, and data visualization platform.  Former Assistant Superintendent of the Assessment, Accountability, Research, and School Improvement... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
  Instruction, AI

11:40am CDT

Aligning Tutoring With Tier I: Making Instructional Coherence Real
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
High-impact tutoring is most effective when it is tightly aligned to core instruction. This session focuses on strategies for ensuring tutoring complements—not competes with—Tier I instruction. Participants will examine how classroom assessments can inform tutoring, how tutors and teachers communicate effectively, and how districts can strengthen instructional coherence across settings and...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Counts

Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Since 2003, I have worked in K-12 education in Massachusetts, Texas, Maryland, and Arkansas. During that time, I have worked in both rural and urban school districts, teaching students in fifth to twelfth grade. In 2019, I joined the Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education... Read More →
avatar for Isaac Cross

Isaac Cross

Humanities Specialist, Arkansas Department of Education, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Isaac Cross serves as the Humanities Specialist with the Arkansas Department of Education, supporting statewide initiatives in social studies, community service learning, and Arkansas Celebrates America250. He brings experience as a classroom teacher, curriculum specialist, and higher education instru... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Goodwin

Sarah Goodwin

ELA & Course Advisor, ADE - DESE
Formerly a high school ELA teacher, I now serve on the Humanities team at the Arkansas Department of Education – Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (ADE-DESE). As the ELA & Course Advisor, I focus on secondary English Language Arts across the state and oversee course... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, High-Impact Tutoring

11:40am CDT

Designed for All: Where HQIM and AT Converge
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Discover how HQIM and assistive technology can work together to support meanignful access for all learners. This session highlights practical ways to design learning experiences that remove barriers, increase access, and promote active participation in grade-level content, including how to utilize the AT4ALL-ARTASC assistive technology loan program.
Speakers
avatar for Evan Beavers

Evan Beavers

AEM Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education
Evan Beavers currently serves as the Accessible Educational Materials (AEM) Coordinator for the Special Education Division for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for the state of Arkansas. Previously he served as the Technology Director for Vilonia Public... Read More →
avatar for Amy Goddard

Amy Goddard

Brain Injury Specialist, ADE-OSE
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Special Education

11:40am CDT

Expanding Military Career Awareness in Arkansas: Ensuring Equitable Access Through the Military Service & Security Pathway
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
While Arkansas continues to strengthen career pathways statewide, structured military career awareness has historically been limited, leaving many rural and smaller districts without knowledge of the wide range of careers available through the military. In response, Arkansas developed the Arkansas Military Service and Security Pathway (AMSSP) to ensure that all high school students, regardless of...
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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, a State Virtual School (SVS) 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 principal... Read More →
avatar for Paula McDougald

Paula McDougald

Lead Course Design Specialist, Virtual Arkansas
Paula McDougald joined Virtual Arkansas in 2015 as a high school math teacher and transitioned to the design department in 2018. Now the Assistant Director of Design and Development, she manages course design projects and oversees organizational branding. With 19 years in education... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, CTE

11:40am CDT

Integrating Core Academics into CTE: A professional reflection of Math Pathways in CTE
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
CTE is not separate from academics—it’s one of the most powerful ways to bring them to life. This panel explores how a school moved beyond isolated instruction to intentionally embed math, literacy, and science within Career and Technical Education. Participants will examine what meaningful integration looks like in practice and leave with strategies to strengthen rigor, increase relevance,...
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Speakers
AM

Adam Musto

Director of Computer Science Education, Arkansas Department of Education
EC
MM

Manesseh Moore

Alma School District
avatar for Ross White

Ross White

Education Divison Administrator, ADE - DCTE - Office of Leadership
Ross White, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), brings a wealth of CTE experience and knowledge to the division. Before serving as vice principal at Siloam Springs High School, a position he has held since July 2019, White was the director of the school’s CTE program... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, CTE, Math

11:40am CDT

Supporting Accelerated Learning: Concurrent Credit
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Join the Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ADHE) and the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) as they share about implementation of concurrent credit to support accelerated learning opportunities for students and ensure graduates are success ready. This session will also include suggestions of topics that are critical to communicate to students and families to support them in...
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Speakers
avatar for Mason Campbell

Mason Campbell

Assistant Director for Policy and Student Success, Arkansas Division of Higher Education
avatar for Alisha Lewis

Alisha Lewis

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Division of Higher Education
Alisha Lewis began service to the Arkansas Department of Higher Education in March 2017 where she serves as the Associate Director of Communications.  Through Arkansas State Transformation, her role transitioned to Chief Communication Director for the new encompassing Department... Read More →
KL
avatar for Krystal Nail

Krystal Nail

Director, Office of Accelerated Learning and Gifted Education, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Krystal Nail currently serves as the program director for the Office of Accelerated Learning and Gifted Education at the Arkansas Department of Education’s Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. With 20 years of experience in education in Arkansas, Krystal previously served... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Accelerated Learning

11:40am CDT

Child Care Licensing Updates and Q&A
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
This session will offer an open discussion on all things child care licensing. Attendees will have an opportunity to receive answers to their licensing questions.
Speakers
AA
KH
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Early Childhood

11:40am CDT

From Eligibility to Enrollment: Navigating Arkansas Course Choice with Confidence
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
The Arkansas Course Choice Program offers districts and schools a powerful tool to expand student access and personalize learning pathways—but successful implementation requires clear understanding and coordination across roles. This session is designed for district administrators, school leaders, and high school counselors who are responsible for advising students, supporting implementation,...
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Speakers
avatar for Daniel Collier

Daniel Collier

Arkansas Department of Education
avatar for Carmen Jordan

Carmen Jordan

Director APSCN Student Applications, ADE
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

11:40am CDT

On-Site & In-Coding: What to expect for accreditation in 2026-27
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Accreditation is getting a refresh. Come learn what DESE will be looking for on‑site and how next year’s process and timeline will work differently. Walk away with clarity, direction, and a head start on preparing your district.
Speakers
avatar for Matt Douglas

Matt Douglas

State Monitoring Support Specialist, Arkansas Department of Elementary & Secondary Education
avatar for Kristina Eisenhower

Kristina Eisenhower

Arkansas Department of Education
avatar for Dr. Jeanie Johnson

Dr. Jeanie Johnson

PSA Coordinator of Monitoring & Accreditation, ADE DESE
As Coordinator of Special Projects within the Office of Public School Accountability, I work alongside my team to support school districts across Arkansas in understanding and fulfilling their responsibilities under state and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Our unit provides... 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 →
CP
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

11:40am CDT

De-escalation Curve
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
When students have trauma, adversity, chaos, inconsistency (or any number of other things piled on top of that) it's very difficult for them to regulate their emotions. As a result, we need to be increasingly more skilled in our ability to de-escalate the moment and help our students return to a state of regulation. We're not offering quick fixes. We're offering the opportunity to learn how real...
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Speakers
avatar for Nicole Fairchild

Nicole Fairchild

State Training Lead, Arkansas AWARE
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Student Support

1:00pm CDT

Aligned for Impact: Building a Statewide System of Support Through ARTASC
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session highlights Arkansas's new statewide system designed to streamline how districts access support. Participants will be introduced to ARTASC (Arkansas Technical Assistance Support Center), a centralized platform launching in Fall 2026 to replace CIRCUIT and allow districts to request both team-based and student-specific supports, strengthening alignment, and coordination across services.
Speakers
avatar for Becky McIver

Becky McIver

State Improvement Plan Coordinator, Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
avatar for Shelia Smith
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Special Education

1:00pm CDT

AR State Parks: An Education Destination
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
The Natural State is elevating Arkansas’ presence in the outdoor recreation world, and growing our economy. As part of that strategy, aligning school field trips to State Parks with the Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative is a perfect fit. Find out about our education opportunities and field trip grants that can cover trip costs.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Farrell

Kelly Farrell

Education Program Supervisor, Arkansas State Parks
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
  Instruction, Science

1:00pm CDT

Equatio: The Math Engine That Refuses to Let Your District Spiral into Numerical Nonsense
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Get ready for a lively, hands‑on hour exploring Equatio, the digital math sidekick every Arkansas student already has in their toolkit. We’ll play with its most fun features, turn messy math into clean digital creations, and show how Equatio makes problem‑solving feel more like discovery than drudgery. You’ll leave with fresh ideas, classroom‑ready tricks, and maybe even a new favorite...
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Speakers
avatar for Evan Beavers

Evan Beavers

AEM Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education
Evan Beavers currently serves as the Accessible Educational Materials (AEM) Coordinator for the Special Education Division for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) for the state of Arkansas. Previously he served as the Technology Director for Vilonia Public... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
  Instruction, Math

1:00pm CDT

Using Data Without Drowning in It: Monitoring HIT for Continuous Improvement
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
High-impact tutoring requires data—but not data overload. This session helps districts distinguish between required reporting data and the data that truly drives improvement. Participants will explore district examples of monitoring routines for attendance, dosage, and student progress, and learn how to use data to make timely instructional and programmatic adjustments within an integrated...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Counts

Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education
Since 2003, I have worked in K-12 education in Massachusetts, Texas, Maryland, and Arkansas. During that time, I have worked in both rural and urban school districts, teaching students in fifth to twelfth grade. In 2019, I joined the Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education... Read More →
AH
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, High-Impact Tutoring

1:00pm CDT

A Panel Discussion: District Communication During State Reporting
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
In this session, district SIS coordinators will share their district’s best practices and strategies for effective communication during the state reporting cycle processing. Attendees will gain insights into how collaboration is used to validate data, ensuring accuracy throughout the process.
Moderators
avatar for Patty Ellis

Patty Ellis

APSCN SMS Computer Support Coordinator, AR Department of Education

Speakers
avatar for Renee Curtis

Renee Curtis

Director of Administrative Services, Bryant Public Schools
Renee Curtis received her latest degree, Educational Specialist, from Henderson State University and has recently been named as the Director of Administrative Services for Bryant Public Schools. Renee obtained her degree of Bachelor of Science in Education from University of Central... Read More →
AB

Amy Brewer

Federal Programs Coordinator, eSchool Administrator, Alma School District
JD
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

1:00pm CDT

Arkansas Cyber Laws: Updates on Acts 504 and 846
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Join a discussion on Arkansas laws that aim to increase cybersecurity and data privacy for school districts. Topics will include the latest information on requirements, timelines, and resources for the K12 Cybersecurity Policy (Act 504) and the Arkansas Self-Funded Cyber Response Program (Act 846).
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Killingsworth

Jeff Killingsworth

Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, Arkansas Department of Education
Jeff Killingsworth was privileged to be in the classroom for 12 years, teaching a variety of math and science classes from kindergarten through eighth grade, before joining the Arkansas Department of Education. He is currently the Coordinator of K12 Cyber Policy and Strategy, and... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Legal

1:00pm CDT

Collaborative Leadership for CLASS Implementation: Lessons from Bald Knob Early Childhood
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session showcases the collaborative work of Local Lead Amy Pinkston and Preschool Director Abby Baker as they share how a strong Local Lead–program partnership can support effective CLASS implementation. Over the past year, Bald Knob Early Childhood Center has integrated CLASS through shared goal‑setting, aligned professional development, targeted coaching, and clear communication...
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Speakers
avatar for Abby Baker
avatar for Amy Pinkston

Amy Pinkston

Local Lead Captain, WRPDD Local Lead
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Early Childhood

1:00pm CDT

Enrollment Strategy: Enrollment Is Not Marketing—It’s Leadership
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
How clarity, coherence, and trust drive sustainable enrollment over time. Enrollment health reflects trust, clarity, and coherence. This session reframes student recruitment, retention, and enrollment management as a leadership and governance responsibility, not a marketing task. Participants will explore how families make enrollment decisions, why schools lose students over time, and how mission...
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Speakers
CC

Caitlyn Carroll

Business Development Representative, Apptegy

avatar for Sarper Turker

Sarper Turker

Director of Charter Schools, Arkansas Department of Education
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations

1:00pm CDT

From Compliance to Inclusion: Making Documents and Digital Content WCAG 2.1 AA Ready
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Creating accessible content is about more than meeting standards—it’s about ensuring access for everyone. This session provides a comprehensive, practical guide to producing WCAG 2.1 AA–compliant PDFs, Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and social media posts. Participants will explore document structure, accessible data tables, meaningful hyperlinking, alternative text strategies, reading...
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Speakers
avatar for David Hampton

David Hampton

Technology Coordinator, Southwest Arkansas ESC
👋 I’m David Hampton — a former social studies teacher turned tech champion for schools. As the Technology Coordinator at SWAEC, I secure networks, support rural districts, and help educators harness the power of AI in meaningful ways. I also serve as a member of the Arkansas... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations

1:00pm CDT

Maximizing Time & Meeting Standards: Smart Strategies for New Administrators
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
New to administration? Learn what must be happening in your building to meet accreditation standards while maximizing student success. This session will cover essential requirements, creative RTI implementation, and strategies to make the most of your available time. How do you create a coherent system with the time available in your schedule? Lead your school with confidence and creativity.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jeanie Johnson

Dr. Jeanie Johnson

PSA Coordinator of Monitoring & Accreditation, ADE DESE
As Coordinator of Special Projects within the Office of Public School Accountability, I work alongside my team to support school districts across Arkansas in understanding and fulfilling their responsibilities under state and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Our unit provides... 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 →
avatar for Amber Pirnique

Amber Pirnique

DIrector of Special Projects, Arkansas Department of Education
Amber Pirnique serves as Director of Special Projects for the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), leading priority, cross‑agency initiatives that advance statewide goals in literacy, coaching, and system support. Her portfolio includes The Writing Revolution... Read More →
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

1:00pm CDT

LAUNCH for Students: A Framework for Student Success Planning
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session provides an overview of LAUNCH for Students, a statewide student success planning framework. Participants will learn the purpose, key components, and expectations for implementation to support student achievement and postsecondary readiness.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez

Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez

Director of Student Support Services, ADE-DESE
Dr. Lupe Peña de Martínez is a native of San Diego de Alejandría, Jalisco, México. She has been a proud Arkansan since 1998. Her husband, Adelso, is a native of Belize and they have a beautiful, blended family, together they have an energetic ten-year-old son and an additional... Read More →
avatar for Lindsay Reed

Lindsay Reed

Director, Office of School Counseling, Arkansas Department of Education


JW
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Student Support

2:00pm CDT

District Team Debrief
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Horner Hall
School/District teams will have the opportunity to meet during this time and share what they learned.
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center
  General
 

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Monday, July 13
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