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Monday, July 13
 

9:30am CDT

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

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
 
Tuesday, July 14
 

8:30am CDT

KEYNOTE - How to Unleash the Science of Learning in your Classroom
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
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

10:20am CDT

Algebra 1 Readiness
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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

10:20am CDT

Closing the Research-to-Practice Gap
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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
avatar for Holly Lane

Holly Lane

University of Florida Literacy Institute
Dr. Holly Lane is the founding Director of the University of Florida Literacy Institute, more commonly known as UFLI.  She is also the Irving and Rose Fien professor of education.  Her research focuses on effective reading instruction and intervention, and helping teachers develop... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

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
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 streamline feedback workflows, support student revision, and create more opportunities for writing practice. Participants will also see how these tools can help schools measure student writing growth over time while staying grounded in research-backed instructional best practices around timely, actionable feedback.
Speakers
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

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
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 the classroom.
Speakers
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

10:20am CDT

Work-Based Learning in Action: From Practicum to Apprenticeship in Arkansas
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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, leaders, and industry partners as they share how these experiences are implemented, aligned to pathways, and designed to build durable skills. Participants will leave with greater clarity and practical insights to strengthen and expand WBL in their own contexts.
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.

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

11:40am CDT

All In: Meaningful Access
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
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

11:40am CDT

Planning for Impact: Data-Driven Math Interventions in Grades 3–8
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
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 instruction. Participants will leave with streamlined tools and resources they can immediately use to strengthen math intervention systems in grades 3–8.
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

11:40am CDT

Upstream Thinking: Prevention vs Intervention
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
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 prevention efforts save money, time, and effort, while yielding far better academic, social, and economic outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Holly Lane

Holly Lane

University of Florida Literacy Institute
Dr. Holly Lane is the founding Director of the University of Florida Literacy Institute, more commonly known as UFLI.  She is also the Irving and Rose Fien professor of education.  Her research focuses on effective reading instruction and intervention, and helping teachers develop... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

1:00pm CDT

Career Advising That Counts: Leveraging rootEd and DCTE to Support Student Success
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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 clarity on how each model functions and leave better equipped to determine the right approach to meet the needs of their students and strengthen college and career advising systems
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
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

1:00pm CDT

From the Science of Learning to Instruction—Designing What Works
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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 learning—reducing the need for intensive intervention later.
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

1:00pm CDT

Magic School AI
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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

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 settings. 
We started noticing the same pattern over and over: teachers are working hard during large group, centers, and small group time to build relationships, model language, and support problem-solving. But mealtimes and snack times — which easily take 30 to 45 minutes of a child’s day — are often treated as “get through it” moments instead of intentional interaction time. That is a huge missed opportunity for building connections, positive interactions, concept development, scaffolding, and language modeling. “What’s on the Menu? Interactions!” is designed to change that.
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

2:20pm CDT

New ATLAS Writing Rubric
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
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
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
TBA

2:20pm CDT

Supporting Accelerated Learning: Cambridge Programming
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
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 opportunities, supporting attainment of the Cambridge AICE diploma and ensuring graduates are success ready.
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
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

2:20pm CDT

The Science of Learning—How Students Actually Learn
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
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 and sets the stage for stronger classroom practice and system-level decision-making.
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

2:20pm CDT

Using AI to Improve Student Outcomes
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:20pm - 3:30pm CDT
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 the goal of improving assessment scores and accelerating student growth.
Critically, participants will see not just what Harrison School District is doing with AI, but how the district has built a responsible data governance framework around these tools — including how different AI platforms are assigned different roles based on their compliance posture, and how data is structured to minimize privacy exposure while maximizing instructional utility. Participants will leave with both instructional strategies and a replicable privacy framework they can bring back to their leadership teams right away.
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

3:40pm CDT

Accelerating Student Success: Updates to Accelerated Learning in Arkansas
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
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 the role of weighted credit and course codes. Attendees will gain clarity on frequently asked questions and leave with practical insights to effectively implement accelerated learning within their local context. 

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

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 introduced and compete in everything from conservation-based culinary competitions to quiz bowl to STEM to air rifle to game calling.  Come find out how your school can take home a banner….and some great prizes….at this year’s Generation Conservation Summit. 
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

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 will explore how Arkansas Imagination Library supports early language development, vocabulary acquisition, phonological awareness, family engagement, and kindergarten readiness through consistent access to high-quality children’s literature. Participants will learn how local school districts can partner with Arkansas Imagination Library to strengthen literacy outcomes before children ever enter a classroom.
Recent national and state research will be shared that consistently demonstrates that early access to books and shared reading experiences significantly impact future academic achievement, including third-grade reading proficiency. By supporting Arkansas Imagination Library, school leaders can help ensure children arrive at kindergarten with stronger literacy foundations, increased exposure to print, and positive reading routines already established in the home.
This session will provide practical partnership models, funding strategies, enrollment outreach ideas, and examples of how Arkansas districts can position Arkansas Imagination Library as a foundational component of their early literacy pipeline.
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

3:40pm CDT

Lexile Explained
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
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 free Hub tools and resources, showing how these measures can be applied directly in classrooms. Attendees will learn strategies to inform instruction, integrate Lexile and Quantile tools into lesson planning, goal setting, and differentiated assignments, and communicate results effectively with caregivers to promote family engagement.
Participants will leave with practical, ready-to-use strategies to enhance literacy and numeracy outcomes. Join us to deepen your understanding of the Lexile and Quantile Frameworks and empower your schools with tools that drive student success!
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

3:40pm CDT

MTSS by Design—Using the Science of Learning to Strengthen Support
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
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 improve outcomes for all students.
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

3:40pm CDT

Supporting Safe and Responsible AI Use in Schools
Tuesday July 14, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
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

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
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, clarify student thinking, and enhance communication—helping math and science instruction become more precise, coherent, and impactful.
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
 
Wednesday, July 15
 

8:30am CDT

KEYNOTE - Learning Evolution: The New Era of AI in the Classroom
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
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 examples of how using AI in the classroom can actually encourage deeper learning and understanding. After all, learning is more about the process than the product.
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

10:20am CDT

Are You Smarter than an AI Chat bot?
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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 with. While one panelist ultimately will win and get a “walk off shot”, in the end, everyone wins.
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

10:20am CDT

Arkansas Outdoor Education Initiative: Leveraging State Partners for Outdoor Learning Success
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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 plateau, a park ranger to host a field trip, or resources to teach bicycle safety on campus, this workshop will show you the landscape of outdoor learning in Arkansas.
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

10:20am CDT

Early Career Experiences: The Starting Point for Success Ready Graduates
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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 school pathways. The session will emphasize how early engagement helps students connect their interests and strengths to future pathways that can ultimately lead to the designation of a Success Ready Graduate.
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

10:20am CDT

Unlocking Syntax
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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 construction and literacy proficiency.
Speakers
avatar for Shauna Cotte

Shauna Cotte

Keys to Literacy
Shauna serves as Vice President and Senior Director of Professional Development at Keys to Literacy and is an integral member of the senior management team. With over 20 years of experience, Shauna has dedicated her career to advancing literacy achievement for all students. Her journey began as a classroom teacher and literacy interventionist, where she developed... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

11:40am CDT

Grow Your Readers: 3rd-Grade Promotion and Engaging Families for Success
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
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 with families and sharing literacy data effectively—such as communicating screener results, supporting Individual Reading Plans (IRPs), and using family-facing resources. Participants will leave with practical strategies and tools to support strong family partnerships and successful 3rd grade promotion outcomes.
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 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

11:40am CDT

Nailed IT!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
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

11:40am CDT

Right-Sizing Assessment: From Scores to Strategy
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
How much assessment is enough — and what actually moves instruction forward? Join cadre leaders and a representative from Public School Accountability for a candid conversation about balancing accountability requirements with meaningful classroom practice. This panel will explore how to right-size assessment systems so they reduce noise, elevate clarity, and position formative assessment as the primary driver of daily instructional decisions. Participants will also learn about statewide opportunities to engage in ongoing conversations throughout the year and preview learning modules currently in development to support this work. Walk away with practical insights for building coherence between state measures and classroom moves that accelerate student growth.
Speakers
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

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
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 instruction (content literacy, disciplinary literacy, and intervention for basic skills), ways to integrate literacy into all subjects, the importance of connecting reading and writing, and the reasons some adolescents struggle with literacy. The second part of the session offers practical instructional suggestions for key components of literacy: vocabulary, comprehension, text structure, writing, discussion, advanced word study, and fluency.

This session is designed for classroom teachers, intervention specialists, and administrators who want to learn effective strategies for helping students in grades five to twelve strengthen their reading and writing skills.
Speakers
avatar for Shauna Cotte

Shauna Cotte

Keys to Literacy
Shauna serves as Vice President and Senior Director of Professional Development at Keys to Literacy and is an integral member of the senior management team. With over 20 years of experience, Shauna has dedicated her career to advancing literacy achievement for all students. Her journey began as a classroom teacher and literacy interventionist, where she developed... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

11:40am CDT

The Power of Practice: How Coaching Labs Elevate Math & Science Instruction
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
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 Coaching Labs work—and why you’ll want to be part of the next cohort.
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 →
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

1:00pm CDT

AGFC’s School of Conservation Leadership: Building a Culture of Conservation
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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 education on your campus through professional development, free equipment, curriculum resources, and more.
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

1:00pm CDT

AI to Support Student Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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

1:00pm CDT

Bridging State and National Expectations: Arkansas's AI Alignment Study with NAEP
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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 intelligence was used to examine content coverage, cognitive demand, and progression across grade levels. The session will identify where Arkansas standards show strong alignment with NAEP, discuss the importance of alignment for understanding national assessment results, and explore how these findings can inform curriculum decisions and classroom instruction. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how standards alignment supports instructional rigor and helps ensure students are prepared for both state and national expectations.
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

1:00pm CDT

Navigating the Updated Early Childhood HQIM Curriculum List and Submission Requirements
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

1:00pm CDT

The Writing Revolution: Explicit Writing Instruction in Service of Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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 strategies to elevate writing in any classroom and learn how districts can access this free, year-long professional learning opportunity.
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

2:20pm CDT

Arkansas STEM Model Program
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
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

2:20pm CDT

Charting the Course: From Pre-K Play to ATLAS Success
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
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 Green
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

2:20pm CDT

From Grant to Growth: What High-Impact Tutoring Looks Like in Practice
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
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. Attendees will leave with a clearer picture of what high-impact tutoring looks like in action and practical strategies for strengthening or launching their own programs.
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 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

2:20pm CDT

New ATLAS Writing Rubric
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
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
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

2:20pm CDT

Planning for AI: Insights from District Leaders
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
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

2:20pm CDT

Teaching (and Learning) Concurrently: Pathways for Educators and Acceleration for Students
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
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 capacity by qualifying high school educators to teach college-level courses. Participants will receive an overview of the credentialing requirements, coursework expectations, and the approval process required for instructors to participate in training opportunities and support structures that help educators obtain the necessary qualifications.

We will also dive into the Arkansas Department of Education rules and policy highlights, ensuring your district stays compliant and at the forefront of concurrent trends.
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

2:20pm CDT

Unlocking Learning: An Introduction to the Science of Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
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.
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

3:40pm CDT

AI in Student Writing: Preventing Plagiarism + Enabling Responsible Use
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
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 assessment to writing as a process. This is a more pedagogically sound alternative to AI detectors, which have proven unreliable and manipulable. Scrible now also offers Rese, a new genAI chatbot enabling students to use AI responsibly in a safeguarded walled garden for research and writing. It incorporates best practices recommended by AI literacy advocates and educators. Teachers can optionally enable it for assignments in which use of AI is allowed and compatible with student learning outcomes. Come learn how to thread the AI needle!
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

3:40pm CDT

AI Playbook: From Awareness to Action
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
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 this year to move from reactive conversations to intentional implementation. Leave with clarity, confidence, and a ready-to-use framework for AI-ready schools.
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

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

DESE: State Math Specialist, DESE
avatar for Britney Nalley

Britney Nalley

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

3:40pm CDT

Outcomes-Based Tutoring Contracts: What Worked in District Pilots
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
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, we will discuss what outcomes to measure, how to set fair targets, what data systems are needed, and how to avoid common pitfalls (such as misaligned incentives or weak implementation expectations). This session will provide concrete strategies and examples to support leaders who want tutoring investments to produce clear, documented student learning gains.
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

3:40pm CDT

We’ve Trained Our Teachers—Now What? Making The Writing Revolution Stick
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
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 insights from schools sharing real implementation experiences, lessons learned, and strategies for scaling writing instruction campus-wide.
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
 
Thursday, July 16
 

10:20am CDT

Accelerating Student Success: Updates to Accelerated Learning in Arkansas
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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 the role of weighted credit and course codes. Attendees will gain clarity on frequently asked questions and leave with practical insights to effectively implement accelerated learning within their local context. 
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

10:20am CDT

Algebra 1 Readiness
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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

10:20am CDT

Beyond Integrity: Designing Learning for an AI-Integrated Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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 learning experiences.

Join us as we move beyond “catching cheaters” to fostering ethical AI use, designing smarter assessments, and leveraging AI as a partner in education. Expect practical strategies, real-world examples, and a fresh perspective on AI as both a student tool and a teacher ally. Leave with actionable insights to transform AI from an academic integrity dilemma into an opportunity for growth!
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 →
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

10:20am CDT

Buying Outcomes, Not Services: High-Impact Tutoring Contracts That Deliver Results
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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 this year, participants will examine how to define outcomes, select valid measures, set performance targets, structure payment models, and build monitoring systems that support implementation quality. Attendees will leave with practical examples, key decision points, and a clearer roadmap for designing HIT contracts that drive stronger student outcomes and better return on investment.
Speakers
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 →
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 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

10:20am CDT

SPED Hot Topics
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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
avatar for Becky McIver

Becky McIver

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

Melissa McClendon

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

10:20am CDT

Third-Grade Promotion
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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, and discusses next steps for designing student support.
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

10:20am CDT

Transforming CTE: From Pathways to Durable Skills That Drive Arkansas Forward
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
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 prepared for what’s next.
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

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 diverse group of educators who are using AI-driven platforms, such as EdInsights and Prometric Pathways to move beyond static reports to real-time, visual dashboards. Presenters will share practical examples of how AI is surfacing patterns, flagging student needs earlier, delivering assessments directly to students with immediate results, and making it easier for teachers, counselors, and leaders to respond quickly and confidently without adding to their workload.

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

11:40am CDT

Aligning Tutoring With Tier I: Making Instructional Coherence Real
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
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 systems. This session will also highlight an ongoing professional learning pilot at an AR district engage in an Outcomes-Based Contract with Instructional Coherence as the objective.
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

11:40am CDT

Designed for All: Where HQIM and AT Converge
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
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

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
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 geography, can explore military service and related security careers within our existing Career and Technical Education framework.

In this session, presenters will walk through the Arkansas development sequence, including collaboration among Virtual Arkansas, the Arkansas National Guard, and the Arkansas Division of Career and Technical Education. Participants will learn how districts can provide access to students, either locally or through other avenues. We will review program requirements, credit structures, and implementation considerations so districts can determine the best fit for their context. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of how this pathway supports informed student choice, workforce alignment, and equitable access across Arkansas schools.
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

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
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, and better prepare students for enlistment, enrollment, and employment.
Speakers
AM

Adam Musto

Director of Computer Science Education, Arkansas Department of Education
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

11:40am CDT

Supporting Accelerated Learning: Concurrent Credit
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
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 making appropriate course selections aligned to their goals.
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 →
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

1:00pm CDT

Aligned for Impact: Building a Statewide System of Support Through ARTASC
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

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

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 math button.
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

1:00pm CDT

Using Data Without Drowning in It: Monitoring HIT for Continuous Improvement
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
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 system rather than viewing data collection as a compliance task.
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 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
 
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