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Prosper Connects '26
Prosper Connects 26: Your Ultimate Professional Learning Adventure!
Get Ready for the most incredible day of learning in Prosper ISD! July 30th at Walnut Grove High School | Over 300 Sessions Await!

Calling all educators! Prepare for a day packed with inspiration, innovation, and incredible learning opportunities. From the electrifying drumline welcome to the delicious indoor lunch options from the Walnut Grove cafeteria serving up a variety of food, this isn’t just another professional development day – it’s a celebration of education!
✨ Highlights:
  • 👕Attire: Favorite Team Jersey, jeans, and comfortable shoes
  • 🚍Grab the Shuttle from Rock Hill HS (16061 N Coit Rd, Frisco, TX 750) for easy parking (runs every 20 min)
  • 🥁 Epic Drumline Kick-Off
  • ☕Breakfast Options: Union Coffee and Baked Goods & Sonic
  • 🌮 INSIDE Lunch options provided by Aramark and Hardy’s Cafe: Union Coffee, Cane’s, Chick-fil-A, Jimmy John’s, Sonic, Pizza Hut, Greens & Grains, Sushi, Taco Line, & Hardy’s Cafe
  • 🧠 GT Credit Sessions Available (sessions that are orange = GT)
  • 📚 Up to 6 Professional Learning Hours
Type: GT clear filter
Thursday, July 30
 

8:00am CDT

Adapting & Reframing General Education Curriculum for Functional Academic, Special Education, and Other Centralized Program Learners (269)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
How do I take pre-existing curriculum for my general education classroom lessons, and adapt them for students receiving functional academics instruction in special education, as well as those enrolled in other centralized programs? The goal of this session is equip educators how to preserve the integrity of grade-level content while making it accessible, meaningful, and applicable to students who require modified, life-skills-based instruction. This idea is shaped by one core belief: learning must be meaningful, accessible, and usable in real life. True access comes not from creating an entirely new lesson, but from reframing the lesson itself.
Receive additional tools for taking already established general education curriculum and adapting it for functional academic, special education, and other centralized program students use. This idea is shaped by one core belief: learning must be meaningful, accessible, and usable in real life. True access comes not from creating an entirely new lesson, but from reframing the lesson itself.
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2103

8:00am CDT

Beyond Behavior: Understanding ADHD and Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria in Today’s Classroom (253)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Students with ADHD often experience more than challenges with attention, impulsivity, and executive functioning. Many also struggle with Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)—an intense emotional response to perceived criticism or failure that can significantly impact behavior, relationships, and academic engagement.
This session will deepen educators’ understanding of how ADHD and RSD intersect and manifest in the classroom. Participants will explore how commonly misinterpreted behaviors (e.g., avoidance, defiance, emotional outbursts, shutdown) may actually be rooted in emotional dysregulation and fear of rejection.
Educators will leave with practical, research-informed strategies and ready-to-use tools that foster emotional safety, improve student-teacher relationships, and support self-regulation and resilience in students with ADHD. There will be opportunity to understand that these students aren't “overreacting on purpose”, but instead their brain has difficulty regulating emotional intensity.
Speakers
avatar for Kori Kalitta

Kori Kalitta

Special Education Counselor, Prosper ISD
My name is Kori Kalitta. I work for Prosper ISD supporting secondary schools by providing direct counseling services for those students who receive special education services and qualify for sped counseling as a related service. I have been in education for 22+ years, ranging from... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2101

8:00am CDT

Blackout Poetry- Art and ELAR! (97)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Have you wanted to lead your students in creating a unique piece of poetry and art? In this session, teachers will learn how to connect art and ELAR, working with school librarians, and the process of teaching a Blackout Poetry lesson. Teachers will not only learn how to present this unique lesson to their students but will also walk away with the resources and an original piece of their own Blakout Poetry, as well!
Speakers
avatar for Caitlin Freeman

Caitlin Freeman

Art Teacher, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1234

8:00am CDT

Building Confident Problem Solvers (Grades 3-12) (194)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
In this session, we’ll explore practical, ready-to-use strategies that create access for all students while keeping the thinking deep with an elementary/high school mother/daughter presenter duo. Through examples from both elementary, middle and high school classrooms, participants will see how shared practices build confidence, reduce math anxiety, and support big thinking across grade levels.
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1115

8:00am CDT

Concrete to Confident: Using Manipulatives to Deepen Math Thinking (329)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
This session emphasizes moving beyond using manipulatives as just tools for engagement, focusing instead on intentional implementation that promotes mathematical discourse, visual modeling, and student ownership of learning. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use strategies, task ideas, and practical ways to align manipulatives with grade-level standards and rigor.
Speakers
avatar for Laurie Cammack

Laurie Cammack

Teacher, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1233

8:00am CDT

Honoring the Process of Learning Through the Use of Digital Portfolios (32)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Adapting instruction and assessment to include the use of digital portfolios- enhancing the growth mindset, creating increased student autonomy and empowerment, and leveraging a flexible learning environment focused on authentic student-led assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Swanson

Lindsay Swanson

Career and Technology Teacher- Family and Consumer Sciences, Prosper ISD
Personal Mission Statement:
Educating learners of all ages and demographics in a safe and nurturing environment, challenging each student to actively participate in the learning process, and acknowledging that the term learner is a life long endeavor.Personal Vision Statement:
Impacting the local and global community by means of preparing all learners to become deep thinkers, active critical problem solvers, and innovators in their chosen craft. By this effort, we will encourage a new generation of learners to actively pursue a growth mindset and set the... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1113

8:00am CDT

How to vertically Align and Implement the Use of an SPO. (157)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Using the Single Paragraph outline from The Writing Revolution, teachers will know how to strategically implement the graphic organizer across all genres. You will also see how it can be used across K-5 and how you can vertically align as a campus to scaffold year after year to help build stronger writers.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1217

8:00am CDT

Let them Talk: Amplifying Student Voice for the CTE Classroom and Beyond (303)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
The session explores how structured AI learning spaces can be used to intentionally increase academic discourse and make student thinking more visible. Participants will learn how to design and implement AI-powered experiences in SchoolAI to promote student engagement with content through questioning, reasoning, and collaborative discussion.
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1126

8:00am CDT

Meeting the Needs of High Ability Students in the Elementary Classroom (286)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
In this session, attendees will gain valuable insight and applicable resources to grow the potential of students who are ready to be challenged. Both ELAR and math content will be included. You will walk away with a plan to collaborate with your teammates and campus GT specialist to design impactful extensions requiring productive struggle to maximize potential.
Speakers
avatar for Cindy Duran

Cindy Duran

First Grade Teacher, Hughes
I spent one year as a GT specialist, during which I felt that I couldn't do enough in the few hours I had students. I currently teach a GT cluster first grade class. I have also taught GT cluster classes in second, third, and fourth grade. I still feel like I can never do enough... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2108

8:00am CDT

Purposeful Writing: Elevating Student Voice with TRTW (309)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
This session introduces the Talk, Read, Talk, Write (TRTW) instructional framework as a practical approach to increasing student engagement and promoting deeper thinking in the language classroom. Through a model lesson, participants will see how each phase supports comprehension, interaction, and written expression in a way that builds toward proficiency.
Speakers
avatar for Maricarmen Corvison

Maricarmen Corvison

Spanish Teacher, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1119

8:00am CDT

Reimagining Research: Cultivating Student Ownership Through Inquiry and Authentic Discovery (289)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
In many English classrooms, research instruction has become heavily focused on source credibility and compliance-based tasks rather than authentic inquiry. This session will challenge that approach by reframing research as a process of curiosity, discovery, and problem-solving. Participants will explore strategies to help students identify meaningful research gaps, develop compelling questions, and take ownership of their learning through choice-driven research pathways. Attendees will leave with practical tools, lesson structures, and student-centered frameworks that transform research from a checklist activity into an engaging and intellectually rich experience.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1118

8:00am CDT

Snorkling your CERs into submission (70)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
How we can use snorkl AI to improve your students' writing through generation of personalized AI feedback. I will show you how I have used snorkl to enhance all students' understanding of what a great written response will include. Students will walk away more confident in their ability and you will end up with more focused written responses from your students.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1103

8:00am CDT

SpeedGeeking: Fast-Fire Strategies to Ignite GT Learners (126)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
SpeedGeeking is a fast-paced, high-energy session where passionate GT educators share their favorite tools, resources, and strategies — all in just four minutes before the buzzer sounds. Think of it as a greatest hits collection for your GT toolkit. Whether our GT geek squad arrives loaded with a repertoire of must-have resources or zeroes in on their single all-time favorite, every round delivers fresh, classroom-ready ideas designed to hook your gifted learners and propel them into the heart of the learning. Walk away with practical strategies to spark curiosity, fuel cognitive breakthroughs, and ignite the kind of deep engagement that GT students crave. This is professional learning at its most dynamic — come ready to discover, think, and leave inspired.
Speakers
avatar for Shana Prugh

Shana Prugh

GT Specialist
avatar for Emily Kopeck

Emily Kopeck

GT Facilitator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2100

8:00am CDT

Strategies for Success in Social Studies (168)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
How do we get students to do the heavy lifting in Social Studies from Day 1… without us talking the whole time? 😅

In this fun and interactive 50-minute session, you’ll experience high-impact literacy and engagement strategies made specifically for 3rd–5th grade classrooms. We’ll dive into “text coding,” student-friendly writing strategies, and easy ways to get kids thinking, talking, and doing the work from the very beginning. You’ll leave with practical tools, ready-to-use ideas, and probably a few “Wait… why haven’t I tried this yet?” moments to bring straight into your classroom!
Speakers
avatar for Selena Ramos

Selena Ramos

I am a lover of all things Social Studies and ELAR. When I’m not shaping the future minds of America, I enjoy reading, hiking, and being the best dog mom. Let’s connect!!
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1216

8:00am CDT

Teaching Up in Phonics in Kindergarten (294)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
This course empowers Kindergarten teachers to "teach up"—moving past a one-size-fits-all approach to meet the needs of diverse learners. Participants will learn how to maintain the integrity of the core curriculum, while strategically accelerating phonics instruction for high achieving students.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Williams

Amy Williams

Reading Specialist
I am and Amy Williams and I am so excited to be presenting at Prosper Connects this year!  I have been in education for 26 years. I have just completed my 11th year in PISD in which I have been a reading specialist for the past 6 years. I have taught PK, K, 1st and 2nd grade as well... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1225

8:00am CDT

The Digital Choice Board: Differentiation Made Simple (267)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
High-impact differentiation doesn’t have to mean three different lesson plans. In this 50-minute workshop, we will master the art of the Digital Choice Board—a one-stop shop for student autonomy and tiered support. Following a "Model/Apply" format, we will use Padlet to build a structured "Learning Hub" and integrate School AI to provide students with real-time, personalized feedback as they work. You will leave this session with a ready-to-use digital choice board tailored to your grade level, allowing you to meet every student’s needs from day one.
Speakers
avatar for Jenny Allen

Jenny Allen

6th Grade ELAR Teacher, PISD
I am a Texas native, born and raised, and I started my teaching career in Mesquite, Texas.  I am a wife to a wonderful husband, I am a mother of three, and I have a beautiful grandson.  I graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with my Bachelor's Degree in Criminology... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1117

8:00am CDT

Using Debate Across the Curriculum (29)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Debate serves as a high-impact,, student-centered tool for on-level and gifted education, fostering advanced critical thinking, research skills, and structured argumentation. Learn from one of our most innovative Debate Coaches and the Director of Academic Competition over Speech and Debate to learn how to streamline the use of debate in your class. Ideas will be provided that will help enhance the learning through the different types of debate that can be used in a classroom. There are more than 5 types of debate and many can be retrofitted to take learning to the next level in YOUR classroom. Based upon student ability, different types can be used on the same lesson.
Speakers
HR

Hannah Rodriguez

Speech & Debate Coach
avatar for Racy Kane

Racy Kane

Director of Academic Competition, Prosper ISD
Racy Kane serves as Director of Academic Competition for Prosper ISD where she supports Speech and Debate throughout the district, Spelling Bee, Mock Trial, Robotics, and UIL Academics at the district's 30 campuses.
Prior to moving to the district office, Racy was the Associate Principal at Prosper HS where she served in campus administration for 6 years. She runs multiple UIL District contests in the North Texas area and is the UIL Regional Director for Region 2-5A and 1-6A. For the past 13... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1204

8:00am CDT

Using Formative to Support Responsive Instruction (140)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
In this professional development session, educators will explore how to effectively use Formative to collect, organize, and respond to student data in meaningful ways. Participants will learn how to develop and structure folders to support shared data collection across teams, making collaboration more efficient and impactful. The session will also highlight creative uses of Formative’s question types to gather a wider range of student thinking, moving beyond traditional multiple choice and short answer formats. Teachers will experience how tools like drawing, categorizing, and drag and drop can provide deeper insight into student understanding.
In addition, participants will learn practical strategies for using Formative as a reteaching tool, including how to quickly identify misconceptions and respond with targeted instruction. The session will also cover how to use sections and thresholds within Formative to streamline data analysis, allowing teachers to quickly group students and make instructional decisions in real time. By the end of the session, educators will be equipped with actionable strategies to enhance formative assessment practices, improve collaboration, and drive responsive teaching.
Speakers
avatar for Liz Labhart

Liz Labhart

7th Grade Science Teacher, Prosper ISD
I love working with learners and learning with them!
avatar for Courtney Glasgow

Courtney Glasgow

7th Grade Science, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1110

9:00am CDT

Curiosity, Context, and Chaos: A Deep Dive into Meaningful Thinking (129)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
High-level inquiry begins where Google ends. When answers are easily found, the friction required for critical thinking is lost. This session challenges you to rethink the way you ask questions and design lessons. We will explore how to weave curiosity, context, and a little chaos into your lessons—stacking Depth and Complexity icons to transform standalone questions into high-level, layered, divergent logic.
Speakers
avatar for Kate Jackson

Kate Jackson

Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
I'm the instructional coach for Hays, Jones, Rogers, and Bridges ELAR teachers! 
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1111

9:00am CDT

Dynamic Strategies for Primary Source (173)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Primary sources are the "clues" of history, but how do we help students investigate them? Whether it’s an old photograph, a handwritten letter, a historical map, or a physical artifact, students need tools to unlock the story. In this hands-on session, you will experience versatile strategies that turn students into active investigators. You will leave with a toolkit to analyze sources with students throughout the year in Social Studies.
Speakers
avatar for Paige Harris

Paige Harris

Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1216

9:00am CDT

Elevating Instruction for All Learners: Strategies for Rigor and Differentiation in Secondary Classrooms (320)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
How can secondary teachers ensure that every student is challenged with meaningful, grade-level work while still meeting diverse learning needs? This professional learning session includes powerful, research-based frameworks to help educators design rigorous and equitable instruction.
Participants will explore how to “teach up” by maintaining high expectations and using scaffolds rather than lowering cognitive demand. The session also highlights the use of Depth & Complexity prompts to cultivate critical thinking, along with strategies for aligning tasks to appropriate levels of Depth of Knowledge to increase student engagement and intellectual challenge. Teachers will learn how to design tiered tasks that provide multiple pathways to mastery without compromising rigor.
Through interactive activities, real classroom examples, and collaborative planning, participants will leave with practical tools and ready-to-implement strategies that support all learners in accessing complex content. This session is ideal for secondary content teachers seeking to strengthen differentiation practices while promoting deeper student thinking and achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Sara Mooney

Sara Mooney

Advanced Learning Specialist

Sara Mooney is an educator and Advanced Learning Specialist with 25 years of experience in gifted education, curriculum design, and instructional leadership. Currently serving in Richardson Independent School District, she specializes in Depth and Complexity, Depth of Knowledge (DOK... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2128

9:00am CDT

Enhancing your ELAR Planning with TeachingBooks (23)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
See how the district resource TEACHINGBOOKS can enhance your ELAR planning by curating reading lists by topic or theme, finding quality literature ideas that support specific phonetic skills, accessing author interviews to enhance Author Studies, and exploring Ready-to-use book activities for enrichment.
Speakers
avatar for D'Anne Mosby

D'Anne Mosby

Librarian, Propser ISD
D'Anne Dwight Mosby is a Texas Certified School Librarian, Teacher, Google for Education Certified Trainer, Pear Deck Coach, reader, leader, and lover of all things #edTech! She is a promoter of reading, learning, research, critical thinking, and digital literacy among students and... Read More →
avatar for Ann Busbee

Ann Busbee

Librarian, Baker Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1215

9:00am CDT

Exploring the Value of a Harkness Discussion (146)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
We will be talking about the Harkness style of student-led large group discussions where students have nearly complete ownership of the conversation, and what the teacher's role is leading up to that discussion. The focus is on collaboration, equity, and problem solving. The conversation is generally driven by the students and the readings and other sources that have been selected by the teacher.
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1103

9:00am CDT

Extension Strategies for EVERY Classroom (182)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This professional development session will focus on practical, low-prep extension strategies that can be implemented in any classroom to deepen student thinking and engagement. Participants will experience and analyze several ready-to-use strategies designed to challenge learners at all levels, including those with advanced academic needs. Emphasis will be placed on creating opportunities for critical thinking, multiple perspectives, and meaningful problem-solving without significantly increasing teacher workload. Through simulation and discussion, teachers will explore how to seamlessly integrate these strategies into their existing lessons. By the end of the session, participants will leave with adaptable tools that promote rigor, accessibility, and student ownership of learning.
Speakers
avatar for Elisa Ferreira

Elisa Ferreira

GT Campus Lead, Prosper High School
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1104

9:00am CDT

Gifted, Not Busy: Shifting from Fast-Finishers to Deep Thinkers (secondary classrooms) (160)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Gifted learners don’t need to go faster; they need to go deeper. When mastery happens in minutes, more of the same is just time-filling. Move beyond "busy work" by trading volume for intellectual complexity. This session shifts the teacher’s mindset from providing answers to leading investigations, ensuring every gifted student is met with the challenge they deserve. Come and learn a hands-on session designed to help you "Teach Up" without changing your core lesson plan. You’ll learn how to keep your GT cluster engaged with the same grade-level topics as their peers, but through the sophisticated lenses of an expert.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Kopeck

Emily Kopeck

GT Facilitator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2100

9:00am CDT

Inclusion in the Art Room. (245)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This interactive session equips art teachers with practical, classroom-ready strategies to make art learning inclusive, culturally responsive, and accessible to students of diverse backgrounds, abilities, and learning needs. Participants will examine bias in curriculum and assessment and develop techniques for culturally sustaining pedagogy that honors students’ identities and creative voices. The session balances research-based principles with hands-on activities and ready-to-use lesson adaptations.
Speakers
avatar for Natasha Millard

Natasha Millard

Fine Arts Instructor, Prosper ISD
My name is Natasha Millard, and I have been an art educator for 16 years. I have had the joy of teaching artists of all ages, from 1 to 96 years old. My journey in teaching began at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, where I worked as an art instructor and curator intern, but I quickly... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1235

9:00am CDT

Language at the Heart of Content (270)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Grounded in how the brain acquires language and the importance of affective support, this session will equip you with practical strategies to create a language-rich, student-centered classroom—no matter what subject you teach. You’ll explore simple yet powerful ways to make your instructional language more intentional to boost student engagement, thinking, and communication. Walk away with tools you can use right away to support all learners and elevate the learning happening in your classroom.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1119

9:00am CDT

Leveling the Playing Field: Digital Strategies for Diverse Classrooms (333)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Does the word "differentiation" feel like a daunting addition to your never-ending to-do list? It doesn't have to be. Join me for a high-energy, hands-on "Power Hour" (condensed into 40 minutes!) designed to give you back your time while reaching every learner in your room. In this session, we move past the theory and dive straight into the digital tools that make personalized instruction sustainable. No "sit and get" here! You will spend the majority of this session diving into the tools, where you will actually build a differentiated task ready for your first week of school. Whether you are a tech novice or a digital pro, you’ll walk away with a concrete plan to meet your students exactly where they are. All you need is a laptop (fully charged) and a digital copy of a lesson or unit you are planning for the first month of school. Let's get ready to make tech-fueled differentiation a breeze!
Speakers
avatar for Jenny Allen

Jenny Allen

6th Grade ELAR Teacher, PISD
I am a Texas native, born and raised, and I started my teaching career in Mesquite, Texas.  I am a wife to a wonderful husband, I am a mother of three, and I have a beautiful grandson.  I graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington with my Bachelor's Degree in Criminology... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1126

9:00am CDT

Mindfulness in the Classroom - Strategies for You and Your Students (152)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Our fast paced lives lead many of us to disengage due to distraction and feeling overwhelmed. Mindfulness strategies help us and our students find calm in our emotions, focus on instructional tasks and truly engage in learning. Over time and with practice, students grow in their self awareness and ability to self-regulate. In this session, experience mindfulness strategies as the participant and leave with ideas to share with your students.
Speakers
avatar for Jasmine Patel

Jasmine Patel

GT Coordinator
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2103

9:00am CDT

Procrastination, Perfectionism and Paralysis. How to Unlock Engagement in GT Learners (163)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Gifted and Talented (GT) students often process information differently, which can lead to procrastination, perfectionism, and task paralysis. This session explores the obstacles that prevent engagement and why some GT learners underperform, including fear of failure, and the need for strong relationships.
Attendees will leave with practical strategies to recognize barriers, foster connection, and help GT students move from inaction to engagement.
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2101

9:00am CDT

Snapshot to Success: Blending Visual Strategies with 'Homerun' Feedback (95)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
We know feedback is the #1 driver of student growth, but who has the time? This session offers a streamlined toolkit of visual strategies that naturally embed feedback into your daily classroom routine—no extra grading required. By using visual inquiry, you will empower your students to become active agents in their own learning. Join us to discover how to replace the vague "Good Job" comments with precise, strategic interventions that drive results and save you time.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Jones

Jessica Jones

MS SS Instructional Coach

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1112

9:00am CDT

“Ready, Set, Future!”- College and Career Readiness (304)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This session is meant to shine a light on all of the incredible activities that College and Career students at Hays Middle School have been involved in this past year. The goal is to encourage other middle schools to also put some of these opportunities in place to help our students prepare for the future. Also this is a good way for our high school CTE teachers to collaborate as well. For example, we have collaborated with Rock Hill with putting together opportunities for our kids that turned out amazing.
Speakers
avatar for Kayla Morgan

Kayla Morgan

College and Career Teacher/ Coach
Hello! My name is Kayla Morgan and I am the College and Career teacher at Hays Middle School. I just completed my 11th year in education, with experience on the elementary, middle and high school level. I am excited to share the vision I have created for my College and Career students... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1121

10:00am CDT

Building Intentional Learning Progressions: Designing with the End in Mind Through Backwards Planning (2 hours session) (136)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
In this focused ppart one session (part two offered in the afternoon), secondary educators explore how backward design transforms rigorous assessments into clear, teachable learning progressions. Using a real classroom example, participants analyze the skills students need for success and examine how those skills are intentionally scaffolded across a unit.
Educators will challenge the myth of “teaching to the test” and instead learn how strong assessments drive meaningful, transferable learning.
Speakers
avatar for Maureen Lancaster

Maureen Lancaster

9th Grade ELAR Instructor, Prosper ISD
I am a secondary ELA teacher with nine years of classroom experience and a background in curriculum design, instructional planning, and meaningful assessment practices. I am passionate about creating rigorous, relevant learning experiences that help students build practical, real-world... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1114

10:00am CDT

Elementary Student Panel (156)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This staff training focuses on strengthening student voice and choice in the classroom by learning directly from the students we serve. During this session, a panel of students in grades 3–5 will share their perspectives on what helps them feel engaged, empowered, and motivated as learners. Students will discuss how they experience choice in their learning, what makes them feel heard and valued, and the types of instructional practices that support their success.
Teachers will have the opportunity to listen, reflect, and ask questions, gaining authentic insight into student experiences. The session will also include time to connect student feedback to instructional practices, with an emphasis on increasing engagement, ownership, and meaningful learning opportunities. Participants will leave with practical strategies to amplify student voice and incorporate purposeful choice into their classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Mckenzie Shoemaker

Mckenzie Shoemaker

5th Grade ELAR/SS Teacher
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1102

10:00am CDT

Elevating Instruction for All Learners: Strategies for Rigor and Differentiation in Secondary Classrooms (321)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
How can secondary teachers ensure that every student is challenged with meaningful, grade-level work while still meeting diverse learning needs? This professional learning session includes powerful, research-based frameworks to help educators design rigorous and equitable instruction.
Participants will explore how to “teach up” by maintaining high expectations and using scaffolds rather than lowering cognitive demand. The session also highlights the use of Depth & Complexity prompts to cultivate critical thinking, along with strategies for aligning tasks to appropriate levels of Depth of Knowledge to increase student engagement and intellectual challenge. Teachers will learn how to design tiered tasks that provide multiple pathways to mastery without compromising rigor.
Through interactive activities, real classroom examples, and collaborative planning, participants will leave with practical tools and ready-to-implement strategies that support all learners in accessing complex content. This session is ideal for secondary content teachers seeking to strengthen differentiation practices while promoting deeper student thinking and achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Sara Mooney

Sara Mooney

Advanced Learning Specialist

Sara Mooney is an educator and Advanced Learning Specialist with 25 years of experience in gifted education, curriculum design, and instructional leadership. Currently serving in Richardson Independent School District, she specializes in Depth and Complexity, Depth of Knowledge (DOK... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2128

10:00am CDT

Gifted, Not Busy: Shifting from Fast-Finishers to Deep Thinkers (elementary classrooms) (161)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Gifted learners don’t need to go faster; they need to go deeper. When mastery happens in minutes, more of the same is just time-filling. Move beyond "busy work" by trading volume for intellectual complexity. This session shifts the teacher’s mindset from providing answers to leading investigations, ensuring every gifted student is met with the challenge they deserve. Come and learn a hands-on session designed to help you "Teach Up" without changing your core lesson plan. You’ll learn how to keep your GT cluster engaged with the same grade-level topics as their peers, but through the sophisticated lenses of an expert.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Kopeck

Emily Kopeck

GT Facilitator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2100

10:00am CDT

Hidden Gems: Using Micro Mentor Texts to Turn Rough Cuts into Refined Writing (125)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
In this hands-on workshop, participants will discover the power of micro mentor texts—short, high-impact excerpts that bridge the gap between reading analysis and writing application. By unearthing the gems hidden within diverse, rich texts, educators will empower students to deconstruct an author’s craft and immediately replicate those moves to produce polished, high-caliber work.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Penn

Kelly Penn

Secondary ELAR Instructional Coach
avatar for Kate Jackson

Kate Jackson

Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
I'm the instructional coach for Hays, Jones, Rogers, and Bridges ELAR teachers! 
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1111

10:00am CDT

Houston, we have a problem! (82)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Houston, we have a solution: real learning doesn't always happen from a desk. Get students on their feet and talking about what matters with five high-rigor strategies designed for movement and discourse. You'll experience each strategy firsthand and leave with everything you need to launch them in your classroom—because mission control says the breakthrough in student thinking starts when they stand up and speak out.
Speakers
avatar for Mandy Neece

Mandy Neece

Social Studies High School Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
Hi there! I’m entering my 20th year in education and my fifth year as a Social Studies Instructional Coach in Prosper ISD. I’ve always had a deep interest in Social Studies—it’s where we make sense of the past and better understand the world we live in today.

I enjoy working with teachers to find engaging, effective ways to help students think deeply, ask good questions, and have thoughtful conversations. It’s a privilege to support the great work happening in our classrooms and to be part of a district that truly values teaching and... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1113

10:00am CDT

Language at the Heart of Content (271)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Grounded in how the brain acquires language and the importance of affective support, this session will equip you with practical strategies to create a language-rich, student-centered classroom—no matter what subject you teach. You’ll explore simple yet powerful ways to make your instructional language more intentional to boost student engagement, thinking, and communication. Walk away with tools you can use right away to support all learners and elevate the learning happening in your classroom.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1119

10:00am CDT

Mindfulness in the Classroom - Strategies for You and Your Students (153)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Our fast paced lives lead many of us to disengage due to distraction and feeling overwhelmed. Mindfulness strategies help us and our students find calm in our emotions, focus on instructional tasks and truly engage in learning. Over time and with practice, students grow in their self awareness and ability to self-regulate. In this session, experience mindfulness strategies as the participant and leave with ideas to share with your students.
Speakers
avatar for Jasmine Patel

Jasmine Patel

GT Coordinator
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2103

10:00am CDT

Student Discourse for Elementary Students (49)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Teachers of all subjects can explore how to level up student discourse, a reading comprehension strategy, to promote higher-level thinking daily. They'll walk away with small moves and practical steps that can empower students to take the lead of their own learning. This approach is inspired by Reading Academy and the book Teaching Reading Across the Day by Jennifer Serravallo.
Speakers
avatar for Maddie Smiga

Maddie Smiga

Second Grade Teacher, Bryant Elementary
avatar for Lily Managan

Lily Managan

2nd Grade Teacher, Bryant Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1212

10:00am CDT

Teaching Up in Phonics in First Grade (291)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This course empowers First Grade teachers to "teach up"—moving past a one-size-fits-all approach to meet the needs of diverse learners. Participants will learn how to maintain the integrity of the core curriculum, while strategically accelerating phonics instruction for high achieving students.
Speakers
avatar for Jenn Stinnett

Jenn Stinnett

Reading Specialist
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1214

10:00am CDT

Teaching Up in Phonics in Fourth and Fifth Grade (292)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This course empowers Fourth and Fifth Grade teachers to "teach up"—moving past a one-size-fits-all approach to meet the needs of diverse learners. Participants will learn how to maintain the integrity of the core curriculum, while strategically accelerating phonics instruction for high achieving students.
Speakers
avatar for Cindy Syrett

Cindy Syrett

I have had the privilege of being a Reading Specialist in Prosper for the last 3 years. With 25 years experience at upper elementary with a focus in language arts and intervention, small group reading instruction is my passion. As an avid reader myself, I love watching students... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1225

10:00am CDT

Teaching Up in Phonics in Second Grade (295)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This course empowers Second Grade teachers to "teach up"—moving past a one-size-fits-all approach to meet the needs of diverse learners. Participants will learn how to maintain the integrity of the core curriculum, while strategically accelerating phonics instruction for high achieving students.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Sullivan

Sarah Sullivan

Reading Specialist
Hi! I’m Sarah Sullivan, and I’ve been teaching for 15 years. I spent 13 of those years in second grade—which will always hold a special place in my heart—and I am now in my second year as a Reading Support Teacher. Phonics and literacy have always been my favorite parts of... Read More →
avatar for Karen Vann

Karen Vann

Reading Specialist
I am proud to serve as a Reading Specialist in Prosper ISD.  This is my eighth year in the district.  I have been an Educator for over three decades serving as a Classroom Teacher, a Reading Coach, and a Reading Specialist.  Teaching students to read is my passion!  I enjoy helping... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1223

10:00am CDT

Teaching Up in Phonics in Third Grade (296)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This course empowers Third Grade teachers to "teach up"—moving past a one-size-fits-all approach to meet the needs of diverse learners. Participants will learn how to maintain the integrity of the core curriculum, while strategically accelerating phonics instruction for high achieving students.
Speakers
avatar for Lauren Spurr

Lauren Spurr

PK-12 Literacy Coordinator & Reading Academy Cohort Leader
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1218

10:00am CDT

Use Rock Music to Teach EVERYTHING! (133)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
TeachRock improves students’ lives by bringing the sound, stories, and science of music to all classrooms. From The Beatles to Beyoncé, from kindergarten to AP History, in the classroom or remotely, TeachRock offers meaningful lesson plans all at no cost to teachers, students, and families, inspiring deeper learning and understanding through the power of music.
Speakers
avatar for Kristine Coreil

Kristine Coreil

Music Electives, Walnut Grove High School
Dr. Kristine Coreil is beginning her 3rd year of teaching in Prosper, and her 32nd year of teaching. She is a performing musician as a hornist in the Shreveport Symphony and as a pianist for the Prime Time Swing Dawgz of the Louisiana Army National Guard. She currently teaches AP... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1237

10:00am CDT

Vertical Boards in the ELAR Classroom: Grades 3-5 (165)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Transform your ELAR block into an interactive and collaborative space through the use of vertical boards. Walk away with practical ideas for reading, writing, and grammar that promote open-ended thinking and work for all students.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Lopez

Katie Lopez

4th Grade ELAR, Reeves Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1219

12:00pm CDT

Elevating Instruction for All Learners: Strategies for Rigor and Differentiation in Secondary Classrooms (323)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
How can secondary teachers ensure that every student is challenged with meaningful, grade-level work while still meeting diverse learning needs? This professional learning session includes powerful, research-based frameworks to help educators design rigorous and equitable instruction.
Participants will explore how to “teach up” by maintaining high expectations and using scaffolds rather than lowering cognitive demand. The session also highlights the use of Depth & Complexity prompts to cultivate critical thinking, along with strategies for aligning tasks to appropriate levels of Depth of Knowledge to increase student engagement and intellectual challenge. Teachers will learn how to design tiered tasks that provide multiple pathways to mastery without compromising rigor.
Through interactive activities, real classroom examples, and collaborative planning, participants will leave with practical tools and ready-to-implement strategies that support all learners in accessing complex content. This session is ideal for secondary content teachers seeking to strengthen differentiation practices while promoting deeper student thinking and achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Sara Mooney

Sara Mooney

Advanced Learning Specialist

Sara Mooney is an educator and Advanced Learning Specialist with 25 years of experience in gifted education, curriculum design, and instructional leadership. Currently serving in Richardson Independent School District, she specializes in Depth and Complexity, Depth of Knowledge (DOK... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
2128

1:00pm CDT

Beyond Behavior: Understanding ADHD and Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria in Today’s Classroom (254)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Students with ADHD often experience more than challenges with attention, impulsivity, and executive functioning. Many also struggle with Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD)—an intense emotional response to perceived criticism or failure that can significantly impact behavior, relationships, and academic engagement.
This session will deepen educators’ understanding of how ADHD and RSD intersect and manifest in the classroom. Participants will explore how commonly misinterpreted behaviors (e.g., avoidance, defiance, emotional outbursts, shutdown) may actually be rooted in emotional dysregulation and fear of rejection.
Educators will leave with practical, research-informed strategies and ready-to-use tools that foster emotional safety, improve student-teacher relationships, and support self-regulation and resilience in students with ADHD. There will be opportunity to understand that these students aren't “overreacting on purpose”, but instead their brain has difficulty regulating emotional intensity.
Speakers
avatar for Kori Kalitta

Kori Kalitta

Special Education Counselor, Prosper ISD
My name is Kori Kalitta. I work for Prosper ISD supporting secondary schools by providing direct counseling services for those students who receive special education services and qualify for sped counseling as a related service. I have been in education for 22+ years, ranging from... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2101

1:00pm CDT

Building Intentional Learning Progressions: Designing with the End in Mind Through Backwards Planning (2 hours session) (137)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
In this focused part two session, teachers will receive a summary of part one and then dive into guided work time. This part 2 session participants will design or refine their own unit by aligning assessments, identifying key skill-building steps, and mapping purposeful instructional activities.
Participants leave with a ready-to-use learning progression and practical strategies to ensure every lesson builds toward authentic student mastery.
Speakers
avatar for Maureen Lancaster

Maureen Lancaster

9th Grade ELAR Instructor, Prosper ISD
I am a secondary ELA teacher with nine years of classroom experience and a background in curriculum design, instructional planning, and meaningful assessment practices. I am passionate about creating rigorous, relevant learning experiences that help students build practical, real-world... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1114

1:00pm CDT

Elevating Instruction for All Learners: Strategies for Rigor and Differentiation in Secondary Classrooms (322)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
How can secondary teachers ensure that every student is challenged with meaningful, grade-level work while still meeting diverse learning needs? This professional learning session includes powerful, research-based frameworks to help educators design rigorous and equitable instruction.
Participants will explore how to “teach up” by maintaining high expectations and using scaffolds rather than lowering cognitive demand. The session also highlights the use of Depth & Complexity prompts to cultivate critical thinking, along with strategies for aligning tasks to appropriate levels of Depth of Knowledge to increase student engagement and intellectual challenge. Teachers will learn how to design tiered tasks that provide multiple pathways to mastery without compromising rigor.
Through interactive activities, real classroom examples, and collaborative planning, participants will leave with practical tools and ready-to-implement strategies that support all learners in accessing complex content. This session is ideal for secondary content teachers seeking to strengthen differentiation practices while promoting deeper student thinking and achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Sara Mooney

Sara Mooney

Advanced Learning Specialist

Sara Mooney is an educator and Advanced Learning Specialist with 25 years of experience in gifted education, curriculum design, and instructional leadership. Currently serving in Richardson Independent School District, she specializes in Depth and Complexity, Depth of Knowledge (DOK... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2128

1:00pm CDT

Enhancing your ELAR Planning with TeachingBooks (24)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
See how the district resource TEACHINGBOOKS can enhance your ELAR planning by curating reading lists by topic or theme, finding quality literature ideas that support specific phonetic skills, accessing author interviews to enhance Author Studies, and exploring Ready-to-use book activities for enrichment.
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1215

1:00pm CDT

Language at the Heart of Content (272)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Grounded in how the brain acquires language and the importance of affective support, this session will equip you with practical strategies to create a language-rich, student-centered classroom—no matter what subject you teach. You’ll explore simple yet powerful ways to make your instructional language more intentional to boost student engagement, thinking, and communication. Walk away with tools you can use right away to support all learners and elevate the learning happening in your classroom.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1119

1:00pm CDT

Less Covering, More Learning (327)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Move your Social Studies content from "covered" to "mastered." Participants will learn how to tighten the Talk Read Talk Write (TRTW) structure to increase student cognitive load and alignment with grade level standards. Learn how to design lessons where students do the talking, the reading, and—most importantly—the thinking.
Speakers
avatar for Megan Tumulty

Megan Tumulty

Elementary Social Studies Coordinator, PISD
avatar for Liz Mejia

Liz Mejia

Dual Language Facilitator


Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1217

1:00pm CDT

Routine Revolution: Using EduProtocols to Build Classroom Routines (83)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Students don’t need more activities—they need repeatable learning routines that build thinking, reading, and writing skills across the year. In this session, teachers will learn how EduProtocols function as high-impact instructional routines that boost engagement while supporting content mastery. Come ready to learn, do, and share—and walk away with strategies you’ll actually use to increase engagement, strengthen reading and writing, and reduce the need to reteach directions all year long.
Speakers
avatar for Mandy Neece

Mandy Neece

Social Studies High School Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
Hi there! I’m entering my 20th year in education and my fifth year as a Social Studies Instructional Coach in Prosper ISD. I’ve always had a deep interest in Social Studies—it’s where we make sense of the past and better understand the world we live in today.

I enjoy working with teachers to find engaging, effective ways to help students think deeply, ask good questions, and have thoughtful conversations. It’s a privilege to support the great work happening in our classrooms and to be part of a district that truly values teaching and... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1113

1:00pm CDT

Snapshot to Success: Blending Visual Strategies with 'Homerun' Feedback (96)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
We know feedback is the #1 driver of student growth, but who has the time? This session offers a streamlined toolkit of visual strategies that naturally embed feedback into your daily classroom routine—no extra grading required. By using visual inquiry, you will empower your students to become active agents in their own learning. Join us to discover how to replace the vague "Good Job" comments with precise, strategic interventions that drive results and save you time.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Jones

Jessica Jones

MS SS Instructional Coach

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1112

1:00pm CDT

SpeedGeeking: Fast-Fire Strategies to Ignite GT Learners (127)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
SpeedGeeking is a fast-paced, high-energy session where passionate GT educators share their favorite tools, resources, and strategies — all in just four minutes before the buzzer sounds. Think of it as a greatest hits collection for your GT toolkit. Whether our GT geek squad arrives loaded with a repertoire of must-have resources or zeroes in on their single all-time favorite, every round delivers fresh, classroom-ready ideas designed to hook your gifted learners and propel them into the heart of the learning. Walk away with practical strategies to spark curiosity, fuel cognitive breakthroughs, and ignite the kind of deep engagement that GT students crave. This is professional learning at its most dynamic — come ready to discover, think, and leave inspired.
Speakers
avatar for Shana Prugh

Shana Prugh

GT Specialist
avatar for Emily Kopeck

Emily Kopeck

GT Facilitator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2100

1:00pm CDT

Strategic Thinking: Empowering Independent Mathematicians (185)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Participants will explore and practice specific instructional strategies—including 3 Reads, Numberless Word Problems, and the Problem-Solving Mat—that scaffold critical thinking and mathematical discourse. By the end of this session, participants will be able to identify and apply these strategic thinking tools to empower all students to become confident, independent problem solvers who can effectively justify their reasoning.
Speakers
avatar for Jordan Benton

Jordan Benton

Secondary Math Instructional Coach
This will be my 4th year in Prosper ISD as a Secondary Math Instructional coach and my 16th year in education. 
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1117

1:00pm CDT

Student Discourse for Elementary Students (50)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Teachers of all subjects can explore how to level up student discourse, a reading comprehension strategy, to promote higher-level thinking daily. They'll walk away with small moves and practical steps that can empower students to take the lead of their own learning. This approach is inspired by Reading Academy and the book Teaching Reading Across the Day by Jennifer Serravallo.
Speakers
avatar for Maddie Smiga

Maddie Smiga

Second Grade Teacher, Bryant Elementary
avatar for Lily Managan

Lily Managan

2nd Grade Teacher, Bryant Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1212

1:00pm CDT

Unit Planning with Purpose: Designing Phenomena-Driven Science Experiences (232)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
How do we shift our science classrooms from traditional "information delivery" to authentic student investigation? In this interactive 50-minute session, we will explore how to design instructional units with clear, inquiry-driven purpose. Participants will analyze the critical differences between passive teaching methods and active discovery , learning how to use real-world, observable phenomena as the "spark" for student curiosity. We will also examine how to map instructional sequences that intentionally build essential skills and lead directly to robust unit performance tasks. You will leave with a clear framework for planning lessons where students actively figure things out and construct compelling, evidence-based explanations.
Speakers
avatar for Stefan Birek

Stefan Birek

Elementary Science Curriculum Coordinator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1216

2:00pm CDT

Building Confident Problem Solvers (Grades 3-12) (195)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
In this session, we’ll explore practical, ready-to-use strategies that create access for all students while keeping the thinking deep with an elementary/high school mother/daughter presenter duo. Through examples from both elementary, middle and high school classrooms, participants will see how shared practices build confidence, reduce math anxiety, and support big thinking across grade levels.
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1115

2:00pm CDT

Eduprotocols in the Math Classroom (330)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
What if your students begged for more math practice? Welcome to the world of Math EduProtocols! This session is a deep dive into high-engagement strategies that prioritize "thick" thinking over "thin" busywork. While our primary focus will be on Secondary (6-12) applications, these frames are incredibly adaptable. With just a "little tweak," Elementary (K-5) educators can utilize these same protocols to build rock-solid number sense and foundational fluency. Learn how to gamify your curriculum using templates like 8-Puzzlers and Math Reps that meet every learner where they are. Stop grading worksheets and start sparking conversations. Leave with templates you can use on Monday!
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1117

2:00pm CDT

Interdisciplinary Instruction That Elevates Rigor, Discourse, and Advanced Thinking (302)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Participants will engage in professional learning focused on leveraging cross-curricular instruction to strengthen rigor, discourse, and writing while integrating strategies that support gifted and advanced learners. Emphasis will be placed on interdisciplinary planning, differentiated instruction, depth and complexity, and authentic student engagement.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
2108

2:00pm CDT

Language at the Heart of Content (273)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Grounded in how the brain acquires language and the importance of affective support, this session will equip you with practical strategies to create a language-rich, student-centered classroom—no matter what subject you teach. You’ll explore simple yet powerful ways to make your instructional language more intentional to boost student engagement, thinking, and communication. Walk away with tools you can use right away to support all learners and elevate the learning happening in your classroom.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1119

2:00pm CDT

Lettuce Talk about Words: Fresh and Crisp Vocabulary Activities for Every Learner (172)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Words matter — for every learner, in every classroom. Whether you're nurturing a gifted thinker hungry for depth or supporting an English language learner building their linguistic foundation, rich vocabulary instruction is the bridge that connects them both. In this collaborative session, an ESL specialist and a GT specialist team up to guide you through vocabulary activities that do more than build vocabulary — they build minds. You'll walk away with a collection of engaging, classroom-ready activities designed to stretch thinking, deepen understanding, and ignite a genuine love of language in all your learners. Great word work doesn’t just build vocabulary, it builds thinkers.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
2100

2:00pm CDT

Making Literacy Interactive: Engaging K-5 Learners with Canva and Learning A-Z (430)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
This session will introduce elementary teachers to a variety of engaging and effective digital tools designed to enhance instruction and support student learning. Participants will explore how to create and use interactive phonics games with Canva, implement resources from Learning A-Z to support differentiated literacy instruction, and utilize Gemini to streamline planning, generate ideas, and personalize learning experiences. 
Speakers
avatar for Rileigh Brown

Rileigh Brown

4th Grade ELAR/SS, Boyer Elementary School
Howdy! My name is Rileigh Brown and I am in my third year of teaching 4th grade. I am originally from Frisco and graduated from Texas A&M University. I come from a family of educators and am proud to be one of four family members teaching in Prosper ISD. 
avatar for Carrie Honaker

Carrie Honaker

4th Grade Teacher, Boyer Elementary
With 18 years of experience, I am a dedicated and versatile educator with a passion for instructional leadership, curriculum development, and student-centered learning. I hold a Bachelors of Art in Music Education and a Master of Education focusing on Teacher Leadership, which have... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1234

2:00pm CDT

Procrastination, Perfectionism and Paralysis. How to Unlock Engagement in GT Learners (164)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Gifted and Talented (GT) students often process information differently, which can lead to procrastination, perfectionism, and task paralysis. This session explores the obstacles that prevent engagement and why some GT learners underperform, including fear of failure, and the need for strong relationships.
Attendees will leave with practical strategies to recognize barriers, foster connection, and help GT students move from inaction to engagement.
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
2101

2:00pm CDT

Teaching Up in Elementary Math (287)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Participants will learn how to use MAP data, essential TEKS, and district resources to teach up in the math block. Strategies can be preplanned on question 4 of the unit planner and used for routines, whole group teaching, small group instruction, or in WIN groups for advanced learners.
Speakers
avatar for Cindy Duran

Cindy Duran

First Grade Teacher, Hughes
I spent one year as a GT specialist, during which I felt that I couldn't do enough in the few hours I had students. I currently teach a GT cluster first grade class. I have also taught GT cluster classes in second, third, and fourth grade. I still feel like I can never do enough... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
2103
 
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