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
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.
Discover how to transform your teaching practice with the power of artificial intelligence and gamified assessments. In this hands-on session, educators will explore how SchoolAI can support personalized learning and generate differentiated content with ease. We’ll also dive into Quizizz, an engaging platform that turns assessments into fun, interactive experiences for students of all ages. Learn how to integrate both tools to boost student engagement, track progress in real time, and make data-driven instructional decisions. Walk away with ready-to-use ideas, templates, and the confidence to bring AI-powered tools into your classroom.
OrbiNote is a Google Extension which allows the user to create, convert and manage pdf documents. OrbiNote contains tools that will make the pdfs accessible to all students by providing text to speech, voice dictation, annotation, spelling ,dictionary and math supports.
I am the Assistive Technology Coordinator for NNPS. I am part of a three-person team that works closely with the ITC's to provide Universal Supports for ALL students in NNPS. While our focus is on students with special needs we recognize that ALL students could benefit from using... Read More →
B.A.S.E.-ics for Success: Classroom Interventions and Strategies That Work Ready to strengthen your classroom toolkit? In this session, you'll learn practical B.A.S.E. interventions and strategies designed to boost behavior, academic performance, and social-emotional skills. Participants will leave with ready-to-use techniques that make a real impact and support all types of learners. Let’s master the B.A.S.E.-ics and set every student up for success!
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!
Reframing EL support as core instruction, not a side dish. Handing teachers real tools-- not just guilt. These easy to implement strategies give all students a voice in the classroom.
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.
Students often struggle with longer words, but with the right routines, they can confidently decode and spell multisyllabic words. In this session, educators will explore structured, research-based instructional routines that empower students to break down complex words into manageable parts. Participants will engage in hands-on activities that emphasize morphological awareness and phoneme-grapheme mapping to strengthen both decoding and encoding skills. Through explicit instruction and consistent practice routines, educators will leave equipped with tools to help students recognize patterns, apply strategies, and develop automaticity in reading and spelling multisyllabic words. No materials are needed for this session. This session is highly geared toward 2nd-3rd teachers, but all are welcome.
Want your anchor charts to be more than just classroom decorations? This session will show you how to design purposeful, eye-catching anchor charts that truly enhance student understanding. Learn techniques for blending essential content, clear visuals, and intentional design to create charts that students actually use during independent work and discussions.
You’ll leave with practical layout templates, design tips (even if you're "not artistic"), and strategies for building charts with students to boost ownership and recall.
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 focuses on the seamless integration of Digital Learning Standards of Learning into instruction, helping educators create engaging and innovative learning experiences. Educators will examine practical ways to use the VDOE's instructional guides creating meaningful learning experiences. Additionally, we will explore the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence in education and how it can enhance digital learning strategies. Through interactive discussions, participants will gain insights into digital learning integration and its role in supporting student development aligned with the profile of a graduate.
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.
Join us for a hands-on experience that will provide you with instructional strategies to support middle school newcomers. You’ll gain insights into the characteristics of middle school newcomers and the program currently in place to support their success. In this interactive session, you’ll step into the shoes of a newcomer student and experience a content lesson from this perspective.
Kick off the year with confidence and connection! Join our dynamic session to revitalize your classroom routines and build strong relationships with your students. Leave with a tailored action plan that ensures your classroom runs smoothly and efficiently.
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!
Ever find yourself wondering how to encourage your students with IEPs to confidently engage with their peers in discussion? Our session is focused on creating environments and scaffolds that will support learners of various strengths and weaknesses as they learn how to engage with and explore texts within partners and groups. In particular, we'll be giving you tools that can help you create partnerships of mixed ability levels. Come see us if you want to see how structures like think-pair-share and speed dating can be adapted to collaborative learning classrooms.
In this session, participants will explore the creative potential of Adobe Express to design AI-generated images and characters. They will learn how to utilize Adobe Animate Your Voice to bring these characters to life with dynamic speech and animation. Through hands-on activities, attendees will create a unique animated narrative, integrating voiceovers to enhance storytelling. By the end of the workshop, participants will have the skills to produce engaging, animated content that combines visual creativity with interactive elements.
My name is Dr. Tysha Batts. I have been a teacher for over 15 years. I have also worked as a STEM Education Specialist with Virginia Space Grant Consortium where I managed a STEM summer program. As a contractor for NASA, I worked on creating curricula that follows the Artemis missions... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am EDT C152
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
Looking for simple ways to support English language learners in your classroom? This session will share practical strategies you can use right away, no matter what subject you teach. You'll also team up with others in your content area to brainstorm how to fit these ideas into your own lessons. Bring a current lesson or unit and a device so you can dive right in!
Kickstart your school year by building strong relationships, creating a welcoming classroom culture, and making learning irresistible! In this interactive session, we’ll explore strategies for fostering positive teacher-student connections, designing an environment where every learner feels valued, and using gamification techniques to boost excitement and engagement. Walk away with ready-to-use ideas that will energize your classroom and set the tone for a year of meaningful learning and fun! Please bring a smartphone, laptop, or iPad to actively participate in the session activities!
¡Hola! Soy Bree. I am a high school Spanish teacher committed to enhancing student engagement through gamified instruction, with the goal of creating a welcoming and positive learning environment. I prioritize building positive, supportive relationships with my students as a foundation... Read More →
Join us for an engaging session on supporting student success in SST 1! Participants will explore practical strategies for identifying student needs, documenting concerns, and implementing effective Tier 1 interventions. You'll leave with tools to enhance collaboration and streamline the SST process. Bring a laptop or device to access digital resources and sample templates during the session. Come ready to share, learn, and take actionable steps to support every student’s path to success!
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.
Students in NNPS represent a broad array of sociocultural backgrounds. This session will engage participants in an exploration of specific examples of our refugee and immigrant students' stories. Information, considerations, and strategies shared in this session will support participants in building empathy for students and planning for engaging with students and families in the coming school year.
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!
What’s Mental Health Got to Do with It? is an interactive school-based workshop that explores the powerful role mental health plays in student learning, behavior, and relationships. From classroom performance to peer connections, mental health is at the core of it all. This eye-opening session breaks down the real impact of mental wellness on academic success, discipline, and school climate. Whether you're new to the topic or already doing the work, come ready to reflect, share, and walk away with fresh insight into why mental health matters in every part of school life.
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.
Needing engaging vocabulary strategies to help your ELs, SWDs, and general education students? Come check out our session where we will model and help you plan for vocaulary strategies to include Total Physical Response, Making Visuals, Brain Mapping, Hexagonal Thinking, and more! Make sure to have a few vocabulary words you would like to work on, or bring your frameworks with you. The presenters work with a wide range of students and abilities, including a partnership where ESL Newcomers push in with general education for math and content.
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.
Do you feel like there's always too much to do and not enough time to do it in? Do you struggle to find engaging activities, or plan for all of the scaffolding and differentiation you want to do? AI can help! Come learn about several AI tools that can help you as the teacher streamline administrative tasks, create new activities, and be a thought partner to your already amazing ideas!
Instructional Technology Coach, Newport News Public Schools
I have been an educator with Newport News Public Schools for 19 years. I am passionate about reading and technology, and love being able to experiment and integrate new technologies into classrooms. I also enjoy helping people learn how to use digital resources, and am the queen of... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT A109
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!
Strong social emotional skills is an essential foundation for student learning, engagement, and reducing behavioral disruptions. Middle school is a crucial time as students are developing more independent skills. This session will give teachers how to support SEL using ReThink resources and lessons.
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.
In this engaging session, educators will explore practical ways to help students strengthen their creative thinking through targeted, skill-building activities. Participants will examine sample lessons that feature creative and engaging assignments designed to spark curiosity and deeper understanding. The session will also guide teachers in transforming traditional curriculum tasks into student-centered opportunities for creative expression and ownership of learning. Walk away with ready-to-use strategies that make room for imagination, voice, and choice in any classroom.
Hi, I’m Sarah Garrity, I’ve been an educator for 35 years. For 25 years I’ve worked at all levels (K-12) as an Instructional Technology Coach in Newport News Public Schools. I am a staunch advocate for creativity in all people and am especially focused on student centered learning... Read More →
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
Have you wondered how to communicate with families if you don't speak their language? It's normal to be nervous! In this session, we will go over WHY it it essential to equitably communicate with ALL members of our NNPS community. We will break down best practices for communicating with the help of an interpreter. We will go over resources available to you to facilitate communication throughout the year. You will see how doable it is and leave feeling empowered to reach out to families! Participants will need a cell phone for this session.
Did you know that all Newport News students are provided a free Canva account? Learn how to make the most out of this amazing tool, to spark engaging projects, promote group learning, create seating charts, and even play exciting review games, all on ONE website. Participants will need to bring their laptops, and having a Canva account already set up is a plus.
My name is Olivia Germann-Mc Clain (she/they), or as my students call me, "GMC"! I serve as the Fine Arts Lead as well as the director of the Creative Writing program at Woodside High School here in Newport News, where we focus on storytelling through the lens of poetry, fiction... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT B231
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 session focuses on building school environments where every family feels respected, understood, and truly welcomed. Learn how intentional first impressions, cultural awareness, and accessible communication can transform a family’s school experience. Through immersive, scenario-based activities, participants will deepen their empathy and strengthen their approach to family engagement. Key Takeaways: A professionally designed Sample Welcome Packet to set the tone for new families to include important flyers, attendance information, community resource list, FACE brochure, FACE Specialist introduction letter, PTA membership form, etc. A Cultural Differences Reference Guide to support inclusive practices A Powerful Empathy-Building Toolkit to enhance connection and understanding
This session provides actionable strategies for enhancing family-school partnerships through positive interactions and a strengths-based approach. Key topics include the distinction between engagement and involvement, the importance of "connection before correction," and how to clarify classroom practices for families. Key Takeaways: A comprehensive overview of the FACE Framework to strategically elevate family and community engagement Proven tools and techniques to foster meaningful, lasting positive interactions between staff and families
Unlock the keys to a calmer, more connected classroom in this engaging professional development session! We’ll define what challenging behavior really means and explore proactive strategies to address it before it escalates. Dive into the ABCs of behavior, understand the phases of acting-out behavior, and learn how to respond—not just react—with clarity and confidence. You’ll also identify your own triggers and discover practical tools for self-regulation. Walk away with real-world strategies you can apply immediately to transform tough moments into teachable ones.
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
This session will explore the powerful role of the arts in enhancing academic achievement, student engagement, and social-emotional development. Participants will examine research on arts integration and discover practical strategies for incorporating the arts into core content areas. The session will distinguish between arts integration and enhancement, offering models that support creativity and critical thinking across disciplines. Attendees will engage in hands-on activities and walk away with actionable ideas for implementation in diverse classrooms. This session is ideal for educators seeking to create more inclusive, imaginative, and student-centered learning environments.
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 to explore how a 1st grade team and reading specialist partnered to use literacy data to identify a problem, create a plan to address it, and implement the plan to produce measurable growth in Oral Reading Fluency scores across the grade level. We’re often told to ‘get students in text,’ but how exactly can we do this? What practices will truly make an impact in moving my students towards grade-level reading expectations? We will share what worked for us to change a problematic trend in ORF scores and explore the multitude of resources available to teachers.
What if the solution to cell phone addiction is already in your students’ hands—just in a different form? This dynamic session explores how photography can turn scrolling into storytelling by teaching students to trade TikToks for tripods and harness the creative power of the lens. You’ll discover how the same skills students use on their phones—like framing, editing, and sharing—can transfer seamlessly to digital cameras with purpose and passion. Photography becomes the bridge, transforming tech distraction into meaningful media creation. It’s not about banning phones—it’s about reframing their habits into lifelong, career-ready visual skills.
Come join us as we create a strategy toolbox to support and implement differentiated learning while exploring Benchmark and the English Language Development Standards. These strategies include, but are not limited to sentence frames, intentional and repetitive gestures, corrective feedback, and shadow reading. Our goal is for you select strategies that can be implemented daily to support a variety of your students' needs.
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
Opportunity for case managers (i.e. Elementary Assistant Principals and Secondary Professional School Counselors) to implement 504 plan accommodations with fidelity for students that may demonstrate challenging behaviors within the school setting and require an MDR. The presentation will include the following topics: • 504 review, implementation and best practices • MDR processes and documentation
Discover the future of education with Merge EDU, a hands-on digital learning platform that helps students learn science and STEM effectively using digital teaching aids and simulations they can touch, hold and interact with. In this session, you will get an overview of the Merge EDU platform, and see how it bridges the gap between abstract concepts and tangible experiences for your students. You'll gain insights into how Merge EDU engages students with hands-on activities, empowering them to touch, hold, and interact with virtual objects, which fosters a deeper understanding of complex topics. Every attendee will receive a free Merge Cube!
Isabella Gipson is the Director of Channel Sales at Merge. She has been with the company for over 7 years, and played a pivotal role in onboarding the first 100 Merge EDU customers. In her role, she collaborates with resellers (including Bluum), personally visits schools to showcase... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT B131
This interactive session is designed for educators seeking effective, ready-to-use strategies to foster a positive, engaging, and inclusive classroom environment. Based on teacher feedback from the Innovative Teacher Survey, this workshop will focus on three high-interest topics: Managing Challenging Behaviors, Engaging Teaching Strategies, and Supporting Diverse Learners. Participants will leave with practical tools for proactive behavior management, student-centered instructional techniques, and strategies to meet the needs of all learners. Join us for collaborative discussions, real-world scenarios, and a resource toolkit to take back to your classroom tomorrow! Participates should bring their laptop and a pen.
Kick off the year with a fresh look at lesson planning through the lens of student engagement, feedback, and gamification! In this interactive session, you will explore how to infuse lessons with high-energy digital tools like Quizizz, Gimkit, and Blooket to spark curiosity and drive participation. We'll begin with "Get to Know You" activities using these tools to model how to build relationships and community from Day One.Then, we will dive into refresher demos of each tool, followed by hands-on "Make and Take" time to create engaging, feedback-driven lesson activities they can use immediately in the classroom.
I am currently an Instructional Technology Coach for Newport News Public Schools. I have worked in the secondary, and post secondary arena for over 10 years. I started my career as an Elementary school teacher and returned to that role during the 2022-2023 school year.
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT C152
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 Count Me In, an engaging, hands-on session that will deepen your understanding of how students develop counting skills along the Counting Continuum. Together, we’ll explore the distinct characteristics of each stage, equipping you to identify where your learners land and how to support their next steps. Using Kathy Richardson’s Developing Number Sense as our guide, we’ll dive into practical, hands-on strategies to meet students exactly where they are. Leave with ready-to-use ideas that make early numeracy meaningful, intentional, and fun!
How my teaching practices have become easier by using Seesaw to help with: Data collection, Parental Communication, and integrating student learning. Come to discuss successful strategies for using students' individual iPads to accomplish many time consuming tasks more quickly with Seesaw. Participants should bring a device with wi-fi access and the Seesaw app installed.
Increase your family engagement by using Talking Points, a multilingual communication tool that allows you to send and receive messages to families via an app or web-based browser. Come learn more about the benefits of Talking Points, and how to use it to connect with and empower families regardless of English proficiency.
Our session will focus on equipping educators with the knowledge, strategies, and tools to create inclusive, supportive, and affirming learning environments through the lens of culturally responsive teaching and trauma informed care. We will engage in reflective dialogue, collaborative activities, and scenario-based discussions to examine our own practices and identify areas for growth. We will emphasize the importance of empathy, active listening, and student-centered approaches in building trust and belonging in the classroom.
High School Social Studies Teacher, Newport News Public Schools
Hi everyone! I'm Cat McGrath and I've been in education for 24 years. I've taught for NNPS for 12 years as a Lead Teacher of Employee Expertise (as well as the Social Studies Lead) at Enterprise Academy and am currently a social studies teacher at Warwick High School. I got my bachelors... Read More →
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT B227
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
Let’s talk about how special educators can use evidence-based strategies to support non/minimally speaking students. We will focus on practical ways to enhance communication, understanding, engagement and independence by exploring tools such as core boards, visual schedules, first/then boards and more. There will be materials available to show/discuss, as well as web-based resources to access. This session is for any special education teacher who has students who can NOT communicate effectively due to their disability.
Assistive Technology Provider/SLP, Newport News Public Schools
I have been a Speech Language Pathologist for MANY years. As part of the Assistive Technology team I am able to follow my passion of using visual supports and technology to enhance or provide a means of communication for our students with special needs.
Wednesday August 13, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT A110
Discover how ELLevation can help you adapt and differentiate instruction to support English Language Learners (ELLs)—and all Academic Language Learners (ALLs). This session highlights the importance of language in accessing rigorous content and shows how ELLevation connects directly to your High Quality Instructional Materials. Walk away with practical, ready-to-use strategies that build language routines and student confidence without adding to your workload. Whether you're brand new to ELLevation or looking to deepen your use, you'll leave with tools and inspiration to unlock learning for all.
