Ready to transform student learning and reflection? In this session, discover how Book Creator can be used as a powerful digital portfolio to set goals, showcase growth, and highlight classroom achievements throughout the year. We will share how digital portfolios can be used during parent conferences to connect families to student learning. You'll leave with practical ideas for making student growth visible and meaningful. Please bring a laptop or tablet to participate in active learning during the session.
I've spent the last 18 years on a thrilling journey as an educator. My mission? To ignite a passion for reading and make technology an accessible, empowering tool for all students. It's not just about teaching; it's about opening doors to new worlds and possibilities. Let's explore... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT B123
What if the key to improving student behavior isn’t discipline, but engagement? In this session, we will explore the powerful connection between intentional student engagement and positive behavior outcomes. Participants will learn to identify where students fall on a continuum of engagement—from disrupting learning to driving learning —and will uncover the hidden barriers that hinder full participation. Participants will leave equipped with practical tools and strategies that remove those barriers and help teachers meet students’ cognitive, emotional, and behavioral needs. This session will help you proactively implement strategies that engage learners and build a positive classroom climate from day one.
Hi everyone! I am a teacher at heart, a life-long learner, and an avid reader of children's literature! I have been with NNPS for more than 20 years, serving as a classroom teacher in grades 2-4 before becoming a New Teacher Coach. I believe that building strong, honest relationships... Read More →
Coaching and Professional Learning Specialist, Newport News Public Schools
Hi family!! 🤗🤗🤗 What an exciting learning opportunity to get smarter and grow with each other as we kick off iNNovate 2024! I can't wait to present alongside my amazing colleagues, Heather Trueblood and Sara Sterling! 💙💚 Be sure to add our session called "Reflect... Read More →
Coaching and Professional Learning Specialist, Newport News Public Schools
Hi 👋 I'm Sara Sterling, a Coaching and Professional Learning Specialist with NNPS. I'm passionate about learning and love exploring innovative teaching strategies to help both educators and students thrive. My role allows me to support teachers through partnership and professional... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT C149
Start your day with purpose! In this session, you’ll learn how to use morning meetings to build strong classroom communities, promote student voice, and support social-emotional learning. Walk away with ready-to-use strategies that foster trust, connection, and engagement—all before the first lesson begins. Perfect for any educator looking to create a safe, student-centered learning space. Bring a notebook or device to capture ideas and sample prompts!
Have you ever wondered how you can creatively engage your students in active review for you assessment? Look no further! In this session, you can learn how to quickly and effectively create a review for your students that has them up and moving while collaborating with their peers. Active discussion and visuals are a huge part of Station Rotations!
In this session we will be examining how teachers can incorporate the different strands of language comprehension (content knowledge, vocabulary, language structures, literacy knowledge, and verbal reasoning) in their reading comprehension lessons while providing ideas for supporting all students in accessing core instruction.
IXL in Action: Smarter Planning, Stronger Engagement- Let IXL lighten your load with powerful tools designed to save you time and spark student interest—all in just a few clicks. In this session, we’ll explore IXL’s newest features, including updated engagement tools, assessment enhancements, SparkStudio, and exciting new interactive games. Walk away with fresh ideas and easy-to-use strategies to supercharge your instructional planning and boost classroom engagement.
Sometimes, students might get put off or bored by class material in English and Social Studies, but it doesn't have to be that way. A teacher's passion for what might seem like dry content is definitely catching...the more engaged a teacher is with the material, the more likely the students are to engage as well. Mike Romero has a BA in theatre and an MA in U.S. history, and will be drawing on both to offer suggestions on how to present material with passion and enthusiasm. Participants are asked to have an introduction or hook to a lesson of their choice ready to present and workshop throughout the session.
Having trouble training your dragons... umm... students? Want your students to be independent and your room to be calm? Come learn from two dedicated dragon tamers. Learn to decrease disruptive behaviors, increase engagement, and create a predictable environment for dragons to soar!
In an increasingly noisy world, purposeful student talk isn't just nice — it’s necessary. This session explores how educators can intentionally build oracy — the skillful ability to speak, listen, and communicate effectively — into daily instruction without derailing the curriculum. Participants will learn what oracy truly is (spoiler: it’s more than just “class participation”), why it matters across all content areas, and how to weave it into lessons with practical, ready-to-use strategies.
Elementary Instructional Math Specialist, Newport News Public Schools
Since stepping into the role of Instructional Math Specialist July of 2024, I’ve drawn on over a decade of experience in Newport News Public Schools—including my years in the classroom teaching upper elementary math, science, and Virginia Studies. I’m passionate about making... Read More →
Elementary Instructional Reading Specialist, Newport News Public Schools
I began teaching for Newport News Public Schools 13 years ago, I have taught 6th, 7th, and 8th graders at both Crittenden Middle School and Passage Middle School, served as a proud reading specialist for An Achievable Dream Academy, and supported literacy instruction in K-5 as an... Read More →
Elementary Instructional Science and SS Specialist, Newport News Public Schools
I am in my 11th year with NNPS and love my job in the science and social studies department! I have a little girl who wants to be a NASA scientist and a toddler that likes to engineer. I am passionate about integrating science into everyday life. I believe that through science, reading... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT C151
Join us for a dynamic session focused on practical strategies to support diverse learners and create an inclusive, engaging classroom for all. Participants will learn how to differentiate instruction, build on students’ strengths, and foster a sense of belonging. You’ll leave with adaptable tools and resources to meet a wide range of learning needs. Please bring a notebook, a pen, and a lesson plan or activity you’d like to adapt for diverse learners.
Join us for an interactive session on app smashing with eMediaVA! Learn how to combine eMediaVA’s free digital resources with tools like MagicSchool, Edpuzzle, Gimkit, and Nearpod to boost student engagement. Discover practical strategies and creative ideas to enhance your lessons, whether you're a beginner or a pro. Don’t miss this chance to innovate your teaching with top edtech tools!
Engage and inspire your students with eMediaVA, Virginia’s premier digital media content library. Access tens of thousands of free, innovative, and SOL-aligned media and content. eMediaVA is available to all public and private schools in Virginia free of charge. Unlock the power... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT B131
This session will explore practical, research-based strategies for addressing and reducing challenging student behaviors through the lens of the Virginia Tiered Systems of Supports (VTSS): Foundations for Student Success. Drawing from both building-level leadership and division-level discipline expertise, presenters will model how to reframe behavior support as a system-wide instructional practice rooted in relationships, routines, and responsive supports. Participants will: • Examine the essential components of Tier 1 proactive behavior systems and the role of staff consistency in creating predictable, supportive environments. • Learn how to implement and lead a culture of “instructionally responsive discipline,” where behavior is taught, reinforced, and retaught through engaging, student-centered practices. • Engage in real-world scenarios, tools, and routines that build staff capacity, foster student belonging, and reduce reactive discipline measures. • Reflect on the intersection of equity, neuroscience, and social-emotional wellness in shaping behavior interventions.
This session is designed to empower educators at all levels to shift from a compliance mindset to a connection-based model that improves behavior outcomes and strengthens the entire school community.
Learning Outcomes: By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 1. Define and articulate the role of Tier 1 systems in behavior support aligned to VTSS principles. 2. Apply core strategies that prioritize prevention, student dignity, and instructional alignment. 3. Lead and sustain routines that support staff cohesion and student regulation. 4. Leverage positive relationships and high expectations to promote a culture of accountability and care.
Format: Interactive session with brief video modeling, discussion protocols, implementation tools, and opportunities for reflection and collaboration.
This session is designed for returning elementary, middle, and high school STEM Lead Teachers. Participants will build on their experience by exploring updated expectations, new resources, and ways to deepen STEM culture at their schools. We’ll highlight upcoming initiatives, collaboration opportunities, and ideas for expanding student impact. Please bring a laptop or device to access digital materials during the session.
STEM Instructional Specialist (Secondary), Newport News Public Schools
I have been in education for 32 years, 26 as a Science teacher in Secondary Ed.I currently work in Curriculum and Development (STEM).I love to learn new things and I am a big fan of the FLL program.i like hiking and riding my bike,.
STEM Instructional Specialist (Elementary), Newport News Public Schools
I have proudly served in NNPS for 20 years and I love being part of the innovative STEM team. One of the best parts of my job is developing division-wide STEM programs and supporting teachers as they work passionately to engage students with innovative practices. I love being a lifelong... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT C144
Ready to engage your students’ voices in a new way? In this session, you’ll explore how Adobe Express’s “Animate with Audio” can build language proficiency, boost speaking confidence, and support creativity. You will create your own video recording, see how lessons integrate smoothly in Canvas using the External Tool, and leave with ideas to incorporate this school year. No matter what you're teaching, this flexible tool has something to offer. Bring a laptop to follow along!
In this interactive professional development session, discover how podcasting can transform student engagement and empower learners to share their voices in meaningful ways. We will explore the full process — from planning and instruction to creating and assessing student podcasts. You will get a behind-the-scenes look at how structured podcasting projects can enhance communication skills, critical thinking, and creativity across content areas. Participants will also receive a hands-on introduction to Soundtrap, a user-friendly digital platform that makes podcast production accessible for all students. Walk away with practical strategies, instructional best practices, and tech tips you can immediately apply in your own classroom.
I have been in education for over 30 years. I previously taught secondary science for 10 years in private and public school settings. I've been an Instructional Technology Coach for over 20 years and I absolutely love what I do. I work for Newport News Public Schools and am... Read More →
Come learn how to turn your math classroom into a lively, hands-on adventure! In this session, you will explore creative strategies and activities that will get students moving, talking, and truly thinking. Whether they're solving, competing, or collaborating, your students will be more involved — and having more fun — than ever before. Let's make math the class they look forward to!
My name is Nichole Johnson, and I have had the privilege of working as a secondary mathematics teacher at Denbigh High School. Throughout my teaching career, I have taken on various roles, including teaching students with special needs, serving as a secondary mathematics teacher... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT C145
This dynamic, co-facilitated session empowers educators with actionable strategies to boost student engagement and proactively address chronic absenteeism. Participants will explore the relationship between relevant, student-centered instruction and daily attendance. Presenters will guide participants through practical tools, early intervention strategies, and classroom management techniques that foster a culture of belonging and consistency. Attendees will leave with an engagement-and-attendance action plan ready to implement the next day.
Attendance Specialist, Newport News Public Schools
I have worked in Newport News Public Schools for five years. My belief is that when we combine the influence of schools, families, and communities in a child's life they will succeed.
Join us for an engaging session on how to enhance literacy skills through sensory integration techniques! Participants will explore innovative strategies that incorporate tactile, auditory, and visual elements to create a dynamic learning environment. Discover practical activities and resources that promote literacy development while catering to diverse learners' needs. Let's transform literacy education together!
Do you find it challenging to keep students engaged, excited about learning, and thinking critically? In this session, you will discover research-backed teaching practices drawn from Building Thinking Classrooms in Mathematics by Peter Liljedahl, which outlines how to create optimal conditions for deep thinking—boosting both student engagement and learning outcomes. We will explore practical strategies for designing rich, curious tasks, using random groupings and vertical surfaces to promote meaningful discussion, and applying questioning techniques that push students beyond surface-level responses. You’ll leave with concrete tools and classroom examples to help foster a culture where students are actively engaged, take ownership of their thinking, and develop stronger problem-solving and critical reasoning skills.
Discover how turning lunch or breakfast into a high-engagement, hands-on learning lab can transform remediation into the highlight of your students’ week! In this session, you’ll learn how to create data-driven, alternating review and experiment sessions that target specific skill gaps while keeping students excited and coming back for more. From fizzy soda experiments to observing dry ice in action, you'll see how science standards come alive in bite-sized, meaningful ways. Walk away with ready-to-use templates and strategies that support differentiation and early intervention—no last-minute cramming required! Bring a device for digital access to materials and a willingness to think outside the lunchbox.
This professional development session focuses on using manipulatives intentionally to help students develop lasting conceptual understanding rather than relying solely on procedural solving. Educators will explore how hands-on tools can make abstract math concepts concrete and meaningful, ensuring students not only get the right answers but understand the why behind them. By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 1. Differentiate between using manipulatives for solving and for understanding. 2. Facilitate math conversations that encourage students to explain their thinking with manipulatives. 3. Design learning experiences that make math ideas stick by linking concrete, representational, and abstract models.
session will explore the innovative integration of Makey Makey technology to engage students in language arts, specifically focusing on poetry and storytelling and music. The session will demonstrate how interactive, hands-on strategies can transform the learning experience for students, making complex concepts in poetry and storytelling and music accessible, fun, and memorable. Participants will leave with concrete strategies to apply in their classrooms to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.
This session will provide educators with various ways to engage and encourge scholars wth IXL. IXL Group Jams, Quizzes, Leaderboards, and Analytics will be explored to promote learning in Math, English, and Science. Please bring your charged laptop to the seesion and be ready to Jam!
Today’s classroom can feel like juggling fire—but it doesn’t have to. In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to remix a lesson you already use into a self-paced powerhouse using the 4E framework. Just like the teachers in the one-room schoolhouse, you’ll discover how to meet the needs of all your learners—without running yourself ragged. I will show you how to build student ownership, integrate digital tools, and differentiate instruction while streamlining your workload. Come ready to roll up your sleeves and rethink your teaching—one remix at a time.
Get ready to bring collaboration to life in your classroom! In this hands-on session, we’ll break down the logistics of successful station teaching—from planning with purpose to grouping students and managing time and behavior. Then, experience the magic for yourself as you rotate through engaging, sensory-rich stations featuring blacklight, games, music, tech, and art. Walk away with practical strategies and fresh inspiration to meet the needs of every learner. Come ready to move, create, and collaborate!
Counting isn’t just an early math skill — it’s the foundation for number sense, place value, and mathematical confidence. This session invites Kindergarten and 1st grade teachers to dive into the powerful practice of Counting Collections — a hands-on, high-engagement routine that builds students’ understanding of quantity, counting strategies, grouping, and early operations.
Elementary Instructional Math Specialist, Newport News Public Schools
Since stepping into the role of Instructional Math Specialist July of 2024, I’ve drawn on over a decade of experience in Newport News Public Schools—including my years in the classroom teaching upper elementary math, science, and Virginia Studies. I’m passionate about making... Read More →
Learn how to use Canva to create stop motion animation videos with K-12 students in any subject matter. Your students will have so much fun creating their own short videos, they won’t even realize they are learning and reviewing along the way!
Middle School Visual Arts Teacher, Newport News Public Schools
I am the Art teacher at Palmer Elementary School. This is going to be my 9th year teaching Art. I enjoy incorporating the general education curriculum into all of my art lessons.
Take digital learning to the next level by appsmashing Book Creator with powerful tools like MagicSchool AI, Wakelet, WeWillWrite, Adobe Image Generator, Canva, and Nearpod. Learn how to integrate AI, multimedia, design, and interactive lessons to amplify student voice, boost engagement, and create dynamic, student-centered learning experiences. Bring your laptop and get ready to create hands-on, classroom-ready content!
Lisa Lynk is an experienced educator with over 20 years in the field, dedicated to enhancing teaching and learning through technology. As a VSTE Certified Coach and Canvas Certified Educator, Lisa brings a wealth of expertise in integrating digital tools into the classroom. As a Book... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT C150
In this interactive session, participants will explore practical strategies to make student thinking visible across grade levels and content areas. This session will equip K–12 teachers with tools to foster deeper critical and analytical thinking in all learners. Attendees will engage in hands-on activities, examine real classroom examples, and leave with ready-to-implement routines that elevate student voice, encourage metacognition, and support enriched learning opportunities for all students.
Supervisor of Gifted Services and Advanced Placement, Newport News Public Schools
I am the Supervisor of Gifted Services and Advanced Placement for NNPS. I work with students, teachers, and schools K-12 with advanced academic programs.
Wednesday August 13, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT B223
In this session, participants will learn low-prep strategies to increase student participation, academic talk, and engagement. Nancy Motley's "Small Moves, Big Gains" focuses on simple techniques that can be easily incorporated into daily lessons. These small instructional shifts create more opportunities for students to think, speak, and collaborate. Walk away with practical tools you can use immediately to energize your classroom and boost student learning!
This session is designed for new elementary, middle, and high school STEM Lead Teachers. Participants will learn the "what" and "why" behind STEM programming in Newport News Public Schools and how their leadership supports innovation, engagement, and student success. We'll cover key responsibilities, available resources, and tips for getting started strong. Please bring a laptop or device to access digital materials during the session.
STEM Instructional Specialist (Secondary), Newport News Public Schools
I have been in education for 32 years, 26 as a Science teacher in Secondary Ed.I currently work in Curriculum and Development (STEM).I love to learn new things and I am a big fan of the FLL program.i like hiking and riding my bike,.
STEM Instructional Specialist (Elementary), Newport News Public Schools
I have proudly served in NNPS for 20 years and I love being part of the innovative STEM team. One of the best parts of my job is developing division-wide STEM programs and supporting teachers as they work passionately to engage students with innovative practices. I love being a lifelong... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT C144
Explore how Nearpod can be leveraged to foster independent student success and meaningful differentiation during small group instruction. This session will demonstrate how interactive lessons support engagement, accountability, and individualized learning pathways, ensuring that all students' needs are met. Using a literacy classroom example—with strategies easily adaptable across content areas—you will gain practical tools to enhance small group instruction and promote equitable learning outcomes. Join us to discuss how we can help every learner thrive.
Come learn and practice specific strategies to promote primary students' critical thinking skills and expand their understanding of topics. Participants will practice asking higher-order thinking questions, feedback loops, self talk, and more. Please bring a book that you plan to read aloud in the upcoming school year, if possible.
Welcome to this 1-hour course introducing Code.org, an interactive platform that teaches students the basics of computer science through block-based coding. With activities tailored to different ages and skill levels, Code.org makes learning to code fun and accessible for young learners. In this session, you’ll explore how the platform works, what resources it offers, and how it can be used in both classroom and enrichment settings. Coding helps students build essential skills like problem-solving, sequencing, prediction, and perseverance, which are valuable in academics and everyday life. It encourages a growth mindset by teaching students to break down problems and adapt when things don’t go as planned. Please bring a fully charged laptop to participate in this session.
I like to talk about anything that has to do with education... technology, curriculum, student engagement, classroom environment, professional development, etc... anything and everything; you have my ear!
Wednesday August 13, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT A105
Propel your Edpuzzle proficiency forward in this advanced hands-on course. Discover techniques to create impactful video lessons that resonate with secondary learners. Engage with Edpuzzle Live Mode, enhance your embedded questioning strategies, and discover our extensive library of challenging content. Unveil innovative features such as Audio Questions/Answers and Student Projects, all tied in to Canvas.
Maximize Edpuzzle's offerings for your classroom success!
Stephanie Bass is from Portsmouth, VA and holds a Bachelor's degree from Longwood University University and a Masters in eLearning and Technology Education. Before joining the School Success team at Edpuzzle, Stephanie served as a tech coach and classroom teacher in Portsmouth, V... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT C146
Discover how Lumio software and SMART Technologies hardware can transform your classroom into an interactive, collaborative learning space. In this session, you'll explore hands-on strategies for using SMART displays and Lumio to engage students, personalize instruction, and simplify lesson delivery. Learn how to create dynamic activities, integrate with your favorite tools, and leverage real-time feedback to boost student outcomes. Whether you're new to SMART or looking to level up your use, this session will equip you with practical tips to bring learning to life.
This professional development session will empower educators to leverage IXL as a precision tool for math instruction. Participants will learn how to use diagnostic data to identify student learning gaps, utilize the Live Classroom feature to provide real-time feedback, and implement goal-setting strategies to motivate students and monitor their progress toward mastery.
By the end of the session, participants will be equipped to: • Use IXL diagnostic reports to plan differentiated instruction more effectively. • Engage students actively during math practice using real-time monitoring and feedback. • Foster a goal-driven classroom environment where students are motivated to work toward mastery. • Maximize the potential of IXL as an instructional partner to support sustained student growth and achievement.
This session will explore how student and staff relationships impact school culture, academics, attendance, and discipline. Participants will examine the concept of cultural dysfunction and how negative norms and behaviors in a school hinder achievement, well-being, and overall success. Discussion will include identifying the root causes of cultural dysfunction and strategies to foster a more positive school environment.
Breakdown topics of discussion during session can include inequitable practices, opportunity gaps, and increased discipline in schools.
Are you aiming to customize your lessons to better cater to the diverse needs of your students? In this session, participants will delve into effective strategies for differentiation using flexible questioning techniques, student inquiry, and Kaplan’s Depth and Complexity icons. By exploring a range of differentiated learning approaches, this workshop aims to ignite creativity and foster critical thinking among learners. Attendees will depart equipped with practical tools to seamlessly integrate differentiation strategies into their teaching practices.
Supervisor of Gifted Services and Advanced Placement, Newport News Public Schools
I am the Supervisor of Gifted Services and Advanced Placement for NNPS. I work with students, teachers, and schools K-12 with advanced academic programs.
Gifted Services Resource Teacher, Newport News Public Schools
I enjoy attending engaging sessions about brain-based learning, brain gym, creativity, inquiry learning, gifted learning, and STEM. I teach and work with K-5 gifted students and elementary and early childhood educators. I love learning through collaboration, visualization, and... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT B223
In today’s data-driven classrooms, simply assessing student learning isn't enough — we must take meaningful action! This session will show educators how to harness Synergy Assessment's powerful analytics tools to identify student misunderstandings and design targeted assessment questions through Synergy that address their specific needs. When students actively analyze results and contribute to identifying next steps, they gain a greater sense of ownership and confidence in their learning journey. Bring your laptop and get ready to transform your assessments to drive impactful, student-centered instruction!
Is the "one size fits all" model failing you and your students? When you incorporate student agency through student choice and voice, you will transform that ho-hum lesson into something meaningful. You'll learn how to incorporate student voice using tools like Canvas Studio and student choice throughout the lesson using tools from Google, Canvas, and Canva.
This is my twenty-fifth year in education, starting as a Spanish teacher. Through integration of technology in project-based assessment, I became a permanent attendee at division edtech trainings. I transitioned from teacher to coach to assist other teachers in integrating technology... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT A111
Join us for an interactive session focused on maximizing Book Creator’s potential. Participants will gain practical strategies to drive student engagement, foster creativity, and support academic growth in elementary classrooms.
Betsy Orlando has been an Instructional Technology Coach with Newport News Public Schools for the past 14 years. Prior to that, she was an ITRT with Norfolk Public Schools for 5 years and a classroom teacher in Norfolk and Florida for 10 years. Betsy enjoys sharing her passion for... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT A105
In this session, we will explore how intentional, well-supported struggle can lead to deep mathematical understanding in elementary classrooms. Participants will examine what productive struggle looks like in action and how it differs from frustration. We'll discuss strategies that encourage students to persevere through challenges, make independent discoveries, and develop a growth mindset as mathematicians.
Managing six classes and over 160 students as a first-year teacher was overwhelming—but it also sparked a journey of discovery. In this session, I’ll share how I transformed my approach to assessment in my second year of teaching by implementing simple, daily formative feedback tools that not only reduced my grading load but dramatically increased student engagement and performance. You’ll walk away with classroom-tested strategies for quickly gauging what students know (and don’t yet know), aligning feedback with test-taking skills, and using that data to plan high-impact, intentional lessons. Whether you’re a new or veteran teacher, this session will offer practical ideas to help you teach with purpose and maximize your students’ growth.
Do you have an extracurricular club or team that involves multiple students in several of your classes or even students not enrolled in ANY of your classes? And do you have issues being able to communicate with all of them and in need of a communication hub? If so, this session is for you on how to use Google Classroom to communicate and even have students manage to make sure everyone is on the same page, have student choice, and learn how to properly communicate with each other using technology for good!
Theatre Arts educator for a total of 18 years. Taught middle and high school throughout my career. Creating a conducive environment that's safe, encourages student leadership, teamwork, and pushing students to strive for their best is intrinsically what my entire job is all about.Both... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT A109
Research consistently shows that student-centered activities enhance student success. In this session, participants will engage in a station rotation model designed to promote active student engagement and meaningful discussion around content. We will also explore strategies for differentiating instruction and scaffolding to support learners with diverse needs and proficiency levels. Please bring a laptop to fully participate in this blended learning experience.
Lead Social Studies Teacher, Newport News Public Schools
Hi everyone! I am Kathleen Pessini and this will be my 18th year of teaching. I taught 2 years in West Virginia and then taught 8 years at Hines Middle. I switched over to Virginia Beach at Lynnhaven Middle for 5 years and then decided I wanted to come back to Newport News. This... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT B127
In this session, participants will explore the Talk, Read, Talk, Write framework designed by Nancy Motley to maximize student academic talk and deepen understanding. This strategy builds in purposeful conversation before reading, after reading, and before writing. By encouraging students to talk through ideas, they are better able to process material, clarify thinking, and strengthen writing. Walk away with practical routines that support engagement, comprehension, and academic language development across all content areas.
Two Minds, One Mission: Building Success Through Partnerships is a dynamic professional development session designed to strengthen collaborative teaching practices. Participants will explore a variety of co-teaching models—including team teaching, station teaching, parallel teaching, and alternative teaching—and learn how to implement them effectively. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, educators will discover strategies for building strong partnerships, enhancing student engagement, and maximizing instructional impact. This session empowers teachers to work seamlessly together, creating inclusive classrooms where all students can thrive.
What happens when curiosity meets choice in a tech-rich early-learning environment? In this session, discover how technology can support intentional instructional design, student autonomy, and personalized learning. Learn to design meaningful independent activities connected to data and learning units, model thinking through self-talk, and create learning opportunities that fit seamlessly into your current routines. Walk away with simple, powerful strategies to elevate your teaching and empower your youngest learners. This session is for teachers in early primary grades, including Preschool and Kindergarten.
Come for the muffins—stay for the meaningful conversation!
Karen Griffin is an Instructional Technology Coach with Newport News Public Schools. She has been in education for 16 years, 8 year as a preschool teacher. She works with teachers and students at the Early Childhood Centers (PK/K). Karen has been a Seesaw Certified Educator since... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT C144
Join us for an engaging professional development session where we'll explore Edpuzzle's latest features tailored for educators. Discover how stand-alone quizzes can enhance student assessment and boost engagement like never before. We will also delve into integrating interactive slides to create dynamic and immersive learning experiences. This session aims to empower educators to seamlessly incorporate these tools into their teaching strategies. Come ready to collaborate, brainstorm, and take your Edpuzzle proficiency to the next level!
Stephanie Bass is from Portsmouth, VA and holds a Bachelor's degree from Longwood University University and a Masters in eLearning and Technology Education. Before joining the School Success team at Edpuzzle, Stephanie served as a tech coach and classroom teacher in Portsmouth, V... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT C146
Discover how Book Creator can transform learning experiences for reluctant students by leveraging multimedia, accessibility, and collaboration tools. This session will explore strategies to boost student engagement through interactive content, support diverse learning needs with built-in accessibility features, and foster inclusivity using translation tools. Educators will leave equipped with practical approaches to create personalized, student-centered activities that empower all learners to express their understanding creatively and confidently. Be sure to bring your device for this interactive session.
Janet Burnett, from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, is more than just a teacher. She's a Technology Innovation Specialist, a speaker, a Google Trainer. She also shares her knowledge as an adjunct professor at the University of North Alabama. A significant part of her role as an educator is... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT B132
