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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: Instructional clear filter
Thursday, July 30
 

8:00am CDT

Addition and Subtraction Fact Strategies (Grades 1-3) (403)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Basic facts are the "sight words" of math. Learn how research has changed our understanding of how childrenbest learn facts for understanding and retention. Resources include games and activities for your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Donna Boucher

Donna Boucher

Mathematics Consultant & Author, Math Coach's Corner
Donna Boucher brings a wealth of experience to the education world, having served as a teacher, math instructional coach, interventionist, and curriculum coordinator. Now, she partners with schools and districts to improve math outcomes and support effective teaching practices. A sought-after... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2120

8:00am CDT

Building Thinking Classrooms in Pre-K: Growing Little Thinkers Through Talk, Questions, and Visible Learning (56)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
This professional learning session focuses on practical ways Pre-K teachers can cultivate strong thinking skills in young learners by intentionally using open-ended questioning, problem-solving opportunities, and visible learning strategies. Inspired by the work of Peter Liljedahl and the principles of Building Thinking Classrooms, the session explores how these ideas can be adapted for developmentally appropriate early childhood classrooms. Participants will learn how simple teacher moves such as asking thoughtful questions, encouraging student-to-student talk, and capturing children’s ideas, can transform everyday classroom moments into opportunities for deeper thinking. Through modeling, discussion, and hands-on exploration with manipulatives, teachers will experience strategies that help students explain their thinking, test ideas, and learn collaboratively. By the end of the session, educators will leave with practical tools and strategies to create learning environments where curiosity, exploration, and student voice are central to instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Zakeia Kennedy

Zakeia Kennedy

Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
avatar for Liz Mejia

Liz Mejia

Dual Language Facilitator


Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2225

8:00am CDT

Creating Confident Writers in the Intermediate Writer's Workshop (Grades 3-5)- Beginner (281)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Students in Grades 3-5 are moving from learning to write to using writing as a tool for critical thinking across the curriculum. Teachers will explore ways to equip intermediate writers with the strategies and skills to compose multiple genres.
Speakers
TM

Tricia Myrie

Literacy Consultant
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1124

8:00am CDT

DBQ in a Day: Quick Writes, Engagement, and Analysis Strategies for Stronger Student Thinking (166)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Looking for ways to incorporate high-quality DBQ materials into your daily lessons without dedicating multiple class periods to the full DBQ process? This session will introduce you to practical, flexible strategies that bring DBQ instruction into any social studies classroom on any given day. Participants will explore quick write techniques, student engagement strategies, and document analysis approaches that make historical thinking both accessible and meaningful. Learn how to leverage DBQ Project resources in time-efficient ways while strengthening students’ CER (Claim, Evidence, Reasoning) writing skills and deepening their ability to analyze and interpret sources.
Walk away with ready-to-use tools that increase student engagement, support critical thinking, and build stronger analytical writing habits—without sacrificing valuable instructional time.
Speakers
avatar for Shelby Mooney

Shelby Mooney

7th Texas History Teacher, Reynolds
Secondary Social Studies Teacher 
avatar for Katie Lumpkin

Katie Lumpkin

8th grade US History Teacher, Reynolds Middle School
Secondary Social Studies Teacher leading sessions related to responsive instruction and social studies instructional strategies.  
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1114

8:00am CDT

Engaging Students from Start to Finish with TEKS based Activities in TX Science! (Grades 3-5)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Engage your students with Texas Science built in Page Keeley probes and PhotoStart/Photo Finish activities. Page Keeley probes provide formative assessment at thebeginning of the lesson so you can calculate just how much time needs to be spent onconcepts and at the end of the lesson to show just how much they have learned. PhotoStart/Photo finish activities use photos to strengthen observations, inferencing, andreasoning skills. Take your students to the next level through discourse and reasoning!
Speakers
CC

Carol Carter

McGraw Hill
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1210

8:00am CDT

Feedback that Sticks (123)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Stop leaving students in a "feedback vacuum" and start building a roadmap for their success. This session moves beyond the traditional red pen, showing you how to leverage tech-infused strategies to provide feedback that actually sticks by diving into a menu of digital tools that allow you to provide impactful coaching in real-time. Learn how to bridge the gap between assessment and learning by creating a reflection-rich environment where feedback is not the end of the conversation, but the start of student growth.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Maple

Michelle Maple

ITC, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2228

8:00am CDT

Interactive Read Aloud: Mastering Intentional Discourse for Deeper Comprehension (246)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Transform your read-alouds from a passive listening experience into a powerhouse for student thinking. In this session, participants will learn how to intentionally plan and deliver interactive read-alouds that promote meaningful student discourse and ensure the rich thinking transfers to students’ independent reading and writing.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Garavaglia

Heather Garavaglia

Librarian, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1212

8:00am CDT

Making Thinking Visible: Using Discourse to Strengthen Student Problem-Solving (263)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Students don’t truly learn by watching answers happen—they learn by talking through their thinking. This session explores how structured discourse helps students explain reasoning, challenge ideas, and build deeper understanding. Using the lens of computational thinking, we’ll share practical strategies that make student thinking visible and move learning from answer-getting to real sense-making.
Speakers
avatar for Mitch Schneider

Mitch Schneider

Hi, I'm Mitch!

I believe learning is fundamentally an act of making thinking visible — not just arriving at answers, but slowing down to examine the process of how we get there. When students can see their own thinking, name it, question it, and reshape it — that's where genuine growth lives. Content is the vehicle, not the destination. Come talk to me if you're... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1116

8:00am CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 1st Grade (beginner) (206)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1218

8:00am CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 3rd Grade (beginner) (202)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Speakers
avatar for HyeYon Theos

HyeYon Theos

Rucker Elementary
I am currently a 3rd grade teacher at Rucker Elementary.  Next year, I will be teaching 4th grade ELAR only at Rucker Elementary.  I have taught for 13 years in 3rd and 4th grade.  My husband and I have been married for 19 years and we have 3 kids.  Zachary will be in 8th grade... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Zabasky

Lisa Zabasky

3rd Grade Teacher
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1223

8:00am CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 5th Grade (beginner) (198)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful support for high levels of growth in literacy. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Speakers
avatar for Peyton Bunch

Peyton Bunch

5th Grade ELAR/SS, Cockrell Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1221

8:00am CDT

Phonics Foundations: A Guide to a Week in the Life of First Grade Phonics (290)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
This session provides essential support for teachers new to the PISD phonics curriculum. We will explore our framework in a "Week at a Glance" approach and teach the basics of our research based phonics routines that balance explicit instruction, guided practice, and independent application.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1214

8:00am CDT

Sing, Play, Create: Even More Songs & Games for 3-5 Music (53)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Even more singing games, dances, and activities for 3rd through 5th grade! This session is geared toward Elementary Music teachers and will incorporate concepts from the Prosper Music Curriculum for new and experienced teachers alike.
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1100

8:00am CDT

Small Moves, Big Gains: 1% Tweaks for 100% Engagement (376)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Excellence isn't always about the "Grand Gesture"—it's about the small, consistent habits that transform a classroom. Join us to discover how shifting your posture, your questioning, and your feedback loops can save you hours of frustration.
Speakers
avatar for Allison Hand

Allison Hand

Education Consultant, Seidlitz Education

Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1101

8:00am CDT

Small Steps, Giant Leaps: Cultivating Early Agency for Long-Term Readiness (233)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Think College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) is strictly for high schoolers? Think again. This session reframes the K–5 "Explorer" phase, shifting it from passive career awareness to active problem-solving and critical thinking. We will move beyond the classroom walls to transition students from Curious Observers into Active Investigators. By intentionally fostering academic stamina and self-awareness in the early years, we empower our learners to break boundaries—unlocking advanced coursework and elite CTE pathways long before they ever set foot on a secondary campus. Participants will leave with a clear roadmap to navigate the unique programs and pathways available within Prosper ISD, ensuring every student is equipped to own their future.
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1121

8:00am CDT

Smarter Grading with CodeHS: Leveraging the Autograder to Save Time and Boost Student Feedback (314)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Grading student code shouldn't mean copying and pasting submissions or digging through dozens of files by hand. In this session, led by CodeHS, participants will explore how the CodeHS Autograder can transform the grading workflow in CS and IT courses. Teachers will learn how to use built-in autograders, customize test cases for their own assignments, configure feedback visibility for students, and decide when to combine automated and manual grading for the best results. Whether you're new to CodeHS or looking to get more out of the platform, this session offers practical strategies you can implement immediately.
Speakers
avatar for Dabney Eiland

Dabney Eiland

CTE Curriculum Coordinator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1128

8:00am CDT

Tap, Talk, Learn! Using Technology to Spark Play, Creativity, and Thinking in Pre-K (121)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Technology can be a powerful learning tool in Pre-K when it is used intentionally and developmentally appropriately. In this session, educators will explore how to integrate technology and classroom applications to enhance play, creativity, language development, and student thinking. Participants will learn practical ways to use tablets, interactive boards, and simple classroom apps to document learning, encourage collaboration, and deepen engagement without replacing hands-on experiences. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use strategies and app ideas that support exploration, communication, and meaningful learning in early childhood classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Derek Haney

Derek Haney

Instructional Technology, Prosper ISD
With 14 years in education and six as an Instructional Technology Coach for Prosper ISD, I am passionate about empowering elementary educators to seamlessly integrate technology into their classrooms. My focus is on providing practical, effective strategies to enhance student learning... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2221

8:00am CDT

Teaching That Clicks: When Strategies, Tools, and Outcomes Align (65)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Great lessons do more than include engaging activities—they align strategies and tools with clear student learning outcomes. Educators will analyze how strategies and resources function together to promote student growth, while refining existing lessons to strengthen instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Penn

Kelly Penn

Secondary ELAR Instructional Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1112

8:00am CDT

The AI Co-Pilot: Efficiency for the Modern Educator (116)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Free up valuable prep time and reduce planning stress with your new AI co-pilot. This hands-on session will demonstrate how to leverage PISD-approved tools, including Gemini and NotebookLM, to automate some of the demanding teaching tasks. Discover how AI can streamline your work—from drafting communications and generating engaging inquiry questions to developing customized study aids for students—allowing you to dedicate more time to essential student connections and personalized instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Kirsten Nelson

Kirsten Nelson

Instructional Technology Coach (ITC), Prosper ISD
I am a fifteenth year educator, starting my third year in instructional technology. I have taught a variety of science courses and levels of instruction including all levels of chemistry (on-level, honors, AP, and inclusion/co-teach), 7th grade science, forensic science, academic... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2235

8:00am CDT

The Ian Malcolm Method: Scientific Theories of Jurassic Park applied to the Early Childhood Classroom (135)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
From Chaos Theory to The Butterfly Effect, Dr. Ian Malcolm demonstrates that complex systems cannot be contained by rigid fences. The same is true for the early childhood classroom. In this session, we will explore how letting go of the "control room" allows for a classroom where imagination and learning truly "finds a way."
Speakers
avatar for Heather Brown

Heather Brown

Teacher, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2220

8:00am CDT

The Power of Connection: Advanced Padlet Strategies (111)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Elevate student engagement by integrating high-quality instructional strategies into your Padlet practice. This session explores how to use Padlet to facilitate Hexagonal Thinking and other collaborative strategies that challenge students to find and justify relationships between concepts. Join us to build a toolkit of advanced strategies that turn your digital space into a dynamic hub for student-led learning.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Leggat

Amy Leggat

Princess, Padlet
Texas education isn't just my job, it's my story.  Both degrees are from SHSU and I spent years teaching ELA/SS/ESL in Conroe ISD.  Now instead of bringing lesson plans to students, I get to bring tools to teachers.

Outside of Padlet, I'm probably chasing live music, wandering a... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2222

8:00am CDT

The Power of Partnership: Sparking Success Together (410)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Great teaching starts with great teamwork! In this session, participants will explore strategies to build positive, collaborative relationships with co-teachers, paraprofessionals, and teaching assistants. Through interactive discussions and practical scenarios, attendees will gain strategies to support mutual respect, communicate effectively, and align on goals to create a cohesive classroom environment. By igniting the spark of collaboration, you’ll unlock the full potential of your teaching team and set the stage for student success.
Speakers
avatar for Christine A. Collins

Christine A. Collins

Consultant, Region 10 ESC
Christine A. Collins is in her fifth year as an Early Childhood Consultant with Region 10. She is originally from Detroit Michigan, where for many years she taught children in Kindergarten through 4th grade. Upon coming to Texas, Christine provided instruction to Dallas ISD students... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
2224

8:00am CDT

The Power of Picture Books in All Content Areas (51)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Picture books are not just for elementary classrooms. In secondary settings, they can be powerful tools for building background knowledge, strengthening critical thinking, and supporting content mastery across all subject areas. This session highlights practical strategies for integrating picture books into middle and high school classrooms to introduce complex concepts, spark discussion, reinforce vocabulary, and deepen comprehension. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas that support literacy while enhancing instruction in every content area.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Surratt

Melissa Surratt

Reynolds Middle School Librarian
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1111

8:00am CDT

The Roving Framework: Adapting Literacy Scaffolds for Problem Solving (57)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Tired of students getting "stuck" on multi-step problems or staring at blank pages during writing? In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to adapt the "Roving Paragraph" strategy into a high-engagement, collaborative rotation. We will explore how to use this movement-based technique to tackle the 6-Step Problem Solving Framework in Math and paragraph construction in ELAR. Leave with a "plug-and-play" strategy that turns individual struggle into collective success!
Speakers
avatar for Kelsey Longtin

Kelsey Longtin

Instructional Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1219

8:00am CDT

Using STEMscopes & Braining Camp to Differentiate and Engage Learners (411)
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
This interactive session is designed for educators looking to effectively integrate technology into their daily instruction using STEMscopes and Braining Camp. Participants will explore how to navigate both platforms, access ready-to-use lesson plans, and incorporate tools such as virtual manipulatives and exit tickets into a math workshop model. The session will also highlight practical strategies for differentiating instruction to meet diverse learner needs. Educators will leave with ready-to-implement ideas and increased confidence in using these district-provided resources to enhance student engagement and achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Sydney May

Sydney May

Kindergarten Teacher, Bryant Elementary
Hi Everyone! My name is Sydney May and I am entering my 2nd year as a kindergarten teacher here at Prosper ISD. I graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 2021 with a Bachelor's in Linguistics and a minor in Business. While I love all things language acquisiton and language... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
1202

9:00am CDT

A Day in the Life of Pre-K: Understanding Early Learning Through Play (62)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This session is designed for new Pre-K teachers and kindergarten teachers who would benefit from understanding the structure of a blended Pre-K classroom. Participants will explore how play-based learning drives instruction while teachers differentiate instruction, collect observational data, assess student growth, utilize flexible grouping, and collaborate to support the development of young learners. This professional learning session provides educators with a window into what a typical day looks like in a high-quality Pre-K classroom. Participants will explore how early childhood learning is intentionally designed through play-based experiences, hands-on exploration, and language-rich interactions. The session highlights the essential Pre-K standards, the blended Pre-K classroom model, and developmentally appropriate instructional practices that support young learners. Participants will gain insight into how foundational skills in literacy, math, language, and social development are nurtured through structured routines, learning centers, and purposeful teacher interactions. Through hands-on activities and real classroom examples, teachers will learn how play serves as a powerful tool for developing problem-solving, communication, and independence in young children. By the end of the session, educators will leave with a deeper understanding of the Pre-K learning environment and how it prepares students for future academic success.
Speakers
PM

Penny Morgan

Early Childhood Special Education Teacher, Prosper ISD
Hello!

I currently teach Pre-K with Prosper ISD and this is my 4th year attending this workshop! I absolutely love it and cannot wait to learn new and innovative ways to help my students learn and grow! This is my 15th year in early childhood special education and my 5th year with ECSE in... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2225

9:00am CDT

Designing Effective Math Lesson Plans with Stemscopes (69)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
In this interactive professional development session, participants will explore how to effectively use the STEMscopes Math curriculum to design purposeful, engaging, and standards-aligned lesson plans. We will break down the structure of a STEMscopes “scope,” examine its key components, and identify how each part supports conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and real-world application.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Yeamans

Lindsay Yeamans

8th Grade Math and Algebra I Teacher
Hi!
I have been a teacher for four year, three of those in Prosper ISD. My heart is all things curriculum. I have a precious (not-so-baby), 2.5 year old daughter, Hunter Leigh and a 3 year old German Shorthaired Pointer, Ranger. I have been married to my high school sweetheart, Noah f... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1114

9:00am CDT

Discourse by Design in Secondary Math (85)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Rather than relying on questioning alone to prompt discussion, this session focuses on discourse-by-design—examining secondary math instructional strategies that intentionally create the need for student-to-student communication so all learners engage in mathematical sense-making through structured collaboration and shared problem-solving.
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. 
avatar for Erin Fitzgerald

Erin Fitzgerald

Secondary Math Instructional Coach
This will be my 10th year in Prosper ISD and my 14th year in education.
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1117

9:00am CDT

Diving into Snorkl: Real-Time Feedback for Real Student Growth (112)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Move beyond the final answer and dive deep into student thinking with Snorkl. This introductory session will show you how to capture more student ideas by giving them a digital space to verbalize their thought process. You will learn to navigate the platform, explore standards-aligned activities, and discover how AI-powered feedback can transform a simple task into a powerful tool for growth.
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2235

9:00am CDT

Engaging Students from Start to Finish with TEKS based Activities in TX Science! (Grade K-2) (413)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Engage your students with Texas Science built in Page Keeley probes and PhotoStart/Photo Finish activities. Page Keeley probes provide formative assessment at thebeginning of the lesson so you can calculate just how much time needs to be spent onconcepts and at the end of the lesson to show just how much they have learned. PhotoStart/Photo finish activities use photos to strengthen observations, inferencing, andreasoning skills. Take your students to the next level through discourse and reasoning!
Speakers
CC

Carol Carter

McGraw Hill
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1210

9:00am CDT

Executive Functions: The Hidden Drivers of Learning and Behavior (414)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Every lesson, behavior, emotional reaction, forgotten assignment, shutdown, outburst, and success story in a classroom is being driven by one invisible system: executive functions. Attention, working memory, emotional regulation, impulse control, flexibility, planning, and self-monitoring are the brain skills that determine whether students can actually access learning and behavior expectations in the first place. In this powerful and practical session, educators will explore the neuroscience behind executive functions, why so many students appear “unmotivated” or “defiant” when the real issue is skill development, and what schools can immediately do to strengthen the brain systems that truly drive learning, behavior, mental health, and long-term outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Layne Pethick

Layne Pethick

Consultant, Region 10 ESC
Hi, I’m Layne Pethick—a guy who loves all things regarding the human brain and has spent a lifetime trying to figure out why we humans do what we do. By day, I’m a Neuro-Cognitive and Neuro-Behavioral Coach and a Behavior and Autism Spectrum Disorders Master Consultant for the... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2124

9:00am CDT

First Day Jitters (217)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
The bell rings. Students walk in. All eyes are on you—now what? This session is for brand-new teachers and experienced educators alike who want to feel confident and prepared on day one. Learn simple, effective strategies to calm your nerves, connect with students, and start the year on the right foot.
Speakers
avatar for Autumn Cama

Autumn Cama

5th Grade Teacher
Hi there! I am a passionate teacher, who loves not only students but teachers as well. My dream is for new and veteran teachers alike to feel successful, confident, and calm about their first day of school! I have been an educator in Prosper ISD for five sweet years at Cockrell Elementary... Read More →
avatar for Ginger Hoffman

Ginger Hoffman

Teacher
Hi! I’m Ginger Hoffman, a wife and mother of six, entering my fifth year teaching 4th Grade ELAR and Texas History at Cockrell Elementary. Before moving to Prosper, I taught at a low socioeconomic school and worked in a GED program for adults in Lawton, Oklahoma.

Coming from a m... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1102

9:00am CDT

Formative 101: Dynamic, Data-Driven Learning Experiences (105)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This introductory session will explore Formative, a platform designed to transform traditional checks for understanding into interactive and insightful learning experiences. Teachers will gain proficiency in navigating the platform, building tasks that are aligned with TEKS, and utilizing live response data. Learn how to leverage this real-time data to provide immediate and constructive feedback to students.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Maple

Michelle Maple

ITC, Prosper ISD
avatar for Dessence Grant

Dessence Grant

Professional Learning Manager, Newslea
D’Essence Grant joined Newsela in 2025 as a Professional Learning Manager, bringing nearly a decade of experience from KIPP Texas. During her tenure, she served as an educator, mentor teacher, instructional coach, and Program Manager, specializing in bridging the gap between curriculum... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2228

9:00am CDT

From Scribbles to Stories: Scaffolding the Kindergarten Writer's Workshop (beginner) (277)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
How do we move from "scribbles on a page" to intentional, self-regulated writing? Using the principles outlined in Visible Learning and the Gradual Release of Responsibility, this session equips Kindergarten teachers with strategies needed to launch and sustain a successful Writer’s Workshop.
Participants will explore how to transition from Teacher Modeling (I Do) to Collaborative Writing (We Do) and finally to Independent Application (You Do), ensuring every student—regardless of their starting point—sees themselves as an author.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Brantzeg

Michelle Brantzeg

Kindergarten Teacher
With 22 years in education, including 17 years in kindergarten, I am passionate about creating a classroom where young learners feel supported, confident, and excited to learn. I hold a Master’s degree in Elementary Math and Language Arts and love helping children grow academically... Read More →
TM

Tricia Myrie

Literacy Consultant
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1124

9:00am CDT

Less Stress, More Team (239)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
We will explore how to set the tone of your team from day one. You do not need to be a team leader for this course. If you are on a professional team in this district, this session is for you!
Speakers
avatar for Leah Rumsey

Leah Rumsey

Elementary Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
avatar for Amelia Lingerfelt

Amelia Lingerfelt

Curriculum Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1202

9:00am CDT

Lights On, Voices Up: Launching an Elementary Theater Club that Builds Community and Belonging (415)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This session provides a step-by-step guide to launching and sustaining a successful elementary theater club. Participants will explore program structure, rehearsal processes, production planning, budgeting, and strategies for growing a fully funded and community-supported program. Beyond performance, elementary theater builds confidence, collaboration skills, and gives students a powerful outlet to find and use their voice. Learn how to create a theater experience that empowers students, engages families, strengthens campus culture, and becomes a sought-after opportunity for students.
Speakers
avatar for Nancy Allen

Nancy Allen

Elementary Music Teacher, Stuber Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1237

9:00am CDT

Literacy Library Unlocked: Grades K-1 (73)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This session will offer teachers the opportunity to learn about the campus literacy library and all it has to offer. We will walk participants through responsive ELAR Small Group Instruction using the resources found in the literacy library (leveled texts, lesson folders, decodable texts, Reading/Writing strategies books). We will also discuss how to incorporate responsive writing instruction with the literacy library resources in the literacy small group structure. We will also talk through how teaching up can be accomplished through small group while using the lesson folder as a starting point.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Fowler

Jessica Fowler

Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1233

9:00am CDT

Literacy Workshop: Where Reading adn Writing Converge (122)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
How can you help students read like a writer and write like a reader? In literacy workshop classrooms, students inhale author's words and ideas and exhale their own interpretations and extensions of those thoughts in conversations and responses.
Speakers
avatar for Jenn Stinnett

Jenn Stinnett

Reading Specialist
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1214

9:00am CDT

Multiplication and Division Fact Strategies (Grades 3-5) (404)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Basic facts are the "sight words" of math. Learn how research has changed our understanding of how childrenbest learn facts for understanding and retention. Resources include games and activities for your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Donna Boucher

Donna Boucher

Mathematics Consultant & Author, Math Coach's Corner
Donna Boucher brings a wealth of experience to the education world, having served as a teacher, math instructional coach, interventionist, and curriculum coordinator. Now, she partners with schools and districts to improve math outcomes and support effective teaching practices. A sought-after... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2120

9:00am CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 2nd Grade (beginner) (204)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1223

9:00am CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 4th Grade (beginner) (200)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1221

9:00am CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in Kindergarten (beginner) (208)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Speakers
avatar for Meg Stevens

Meg Stevens

Kindergarten Teacher, Prosper ISD
avatar for Shelby Matthews

Shelby Matthews

Kindergarten Teacher, Bryant Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1218

9:00am CDT

Not Just a Story: Turning Read Alouds into Powerful Shared Reading Moments (159)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
In early childhood classrooms, reading happens every day—but not all reading experiences are created equal. This session helps Pre-K teachers clearly understand the difference between read aloud and shared reading, and why both are essential for developing strong, confident early readers.
Participants will explore how to move beyond simply reading to students and instead engage them as active participants in the reading process. Through modeling, discussion, and hands-on planning, teachers will learn how to design and deliver intentional shared reading experiences that build foundational literacy skills such as print awareness, vocabulary, and comprehension.
By the end of the session, teachers will walk away with practical strategies, clear “look-fors,” and a simple structure they can immediately implement to make shared reading a powerful and consistent part of their daily instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Samantha Diemer

Samantha Diemer

Blended Pre-K Teacher
Hi! I am Samantha and this will be my 7th year teaching. 
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1219

9:00am CDT

Padlet 101: From Basics to Brilliance (109)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Capture every student's voice with the power of Padlet. This session is designed for educators new to the platform who want to master the essentials of digital collaboration. You will explore the various post types—from text and images to video and drawings—and learn how to facilitate a secure, interactive environment for all learners.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Leggat

Amy Leggat

Princess, Padlet
Texas education isn't just my job, it's my story.  Both degrees are from SHSU and I spent years teaching ELA/SS/ESL in Conroe ISD.  Now instead of bringing lesson plans to students, I get to bring tools to teachers.

Outside of Padlet, I'm probably chasing live music, wandering a... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2222

9:00am CDT

Phonics Foundations: A Guide to a Week in the Life of Third Grade Phonics (299)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This session provides essential support for teachers new to the PISD phonics curriculum. We will explore our framework in a "Week at a Glance" approach and teach the basics of our research based phonics routines that balance explicit instruction, guided practice, and independent application.
Speakers
avatar for Lauren Spurr

Lauren Spurr

PK-12 Literacy Coordinator & Reading Academy Cohort Leader
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1225

9:00am CDT

Purpose Before Pages: Designing Reading That Matters (151)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This session helps secondary teachers create reading experiences that feel relevant, intentional, and cognitively engaging. Participants will explore how to establish a strong purpose for reading, align tasks to that purpose, and use strategies that encourage students to read closely, think critically, and stay engaged.
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1115

9:00am CDT

Ready, Set, Strike! (33)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
From pickleball to hockey and more, this session explores striking with long- and short-handled implements through fun, game-based activities.Come ready to play!
Speakers
avatar for Kelli Smith

Kelli Smith

PE Teacher/ Elementary PE Coordinator, Baker Elementary
My name is Kelli Smith and I teach K-5 PE at Baker Elementary! I am also the PISD Elementary PE Coordinator. I am passionate about quality PE and collaborating with other teachers to create engaging and fun activities for our students!
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
GYM- AUX 2

9:00am CDT

Receptionist Roundtable (60)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Join fellow receptionists for an interactive roundtable designed to encourage collaboration and conversation. This session provides a space to share ideas, discuss day-to-day front office operations, and learn from one another’s experiences while receiving important updates that support campus operations.
Speakers
avatar for Lyle McLeroy

Lyle McLeroy

Executive Assistant - Business Services
I have been in Public Education since 2018.  Before then I was a stay at home to my three sons and spent 2 years working at Little Lighthouse Preschool in Prosper. In 2018, I started as a Library Aid in Celina ISD.  I was there for 4 years.  In 2022, I moved to Prosper ISD where... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2205

9:00am CDT

Shared Reading: Fostering a Love of Literacy in Grades K-2 (93)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This session will explore the key elements of an effective Shared Reading lesson in K–2 classrooms, including intentional text selection, explicit teacher modeling of reading strategies, and structured opportunities for student discourse and engagement.
Speakers
avatar for Kellis Webb

Kellis Webb

Literacy Coach
My name is Kellis Webb and I have dedicated 23 years to education, spending 21 of those years in the kindergarten classroom.  For the past two years, I have stepped into the role of literacy coach, focusing on Reading Academy and supporting the diverse literacy needs of both students... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1217

9:00am CDT

Sing, Play, Create: Even More Songs & Games for K-2 Music (54)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Even more singing games, dances, and activities for Kindergarten through 2nd grade! This session is geared toward Elementary Music teachers and will incorporate concepts from the Prosper Music Curriculum for new and experienced teachers alike.
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1100

9:00am CDT

Small Moves, Big Gains: 1% Tweaks for 100% Engagement (377)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Excellence isn't always about the "Grand Gesture"—it's about the small, consistent habits that transform a classroom. Join us to discover how shifting your posture, your questioning, and your feedback loops can save you hours of frustration.
Speakers
avatar for Allison Hand

Allison Hand

Education Consultant, Seidlitz Education

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1101

9:00am CDT

Teaching Up with Academic Language: Increasing Rigor Through Words, Sentences, and Discourse (48)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Increasing rigor requires attention to the language students use to think, speak, and write. In this practical, interactive session, participants will explore a three-layer framework for strengthening academic language at the word, sentence, and discourse levels. Educators will leave with ready-to-use strategies, sentence stems, and paragraph frames that immediately elevate student thinking across upper elementary content areas.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1212

9:00am CDT

The Natural Learner: Aligning Instruction with Human Instinct (248)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Discover how to leverage the innate human drive for motion in your classroom to engage the "natural learner." This session dives into the science of thinking and movement. You will walk away with a toolkit of practical, evidence-based strategies to increase the integration of movement into your daily lessons.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1113

9:00am CDT

The Payne and Perkins Show: Notebook LM for the layman and the technological illiterate. (22)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
During the session we will discuss how to use the AI tool Notebook LM to create resources for your students. Tips, tricks, and common pitfalls.
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1110

9:00am CDT

The Power of Partnership: Sparking Success Together (416)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Great teaching starts with great teamwork! In this session, participants will explore strategies to build positive, collaborative relationships with co-teachers, paraprofessionals, and teaching assistants. Through interactive discussions and practical scenarios, attendees will gain strategies to support mutual respect, communicate effectively, and align on goals to create a cohesive classroom environment. By igniting the spark of collaboration, you’ll unlock the full potential of your teaching team and set the stage for student success.
Speakers
avatar for Christine A. Collins

Christine A. Collins

Consultant, Region 10 ESC
Christine A. Collins is in her fifth year as an Early Childhood Consultant with Region 10. She is originally from Detroit Michigan, where for many years she taught children in Kindergarten through 4th grade. Upon coming to Texas, Christine provided instruction to Dallas ISD students... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
2224

9:00am CDT

Thinking on Your Feet: Improv Strategies for Engaging Teaching (373)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Lecturing is an important part of teaching... but it's also BORING (and your students agree)! In this session, we will stand up and use techniques from the comedy world to learn to think on our feet. Improv is everywhere in teaching! From lecturing, to asking probing questions, to getting to know your students- teachers are constantly improvising in the classroom. By harnessing these skills and working these muscles, you can give a lecture that students look forward to! Be prepared to stand up, move your body, say silly things, and think on your feet!
Speakers
avatar for Hallie Mcculloch

Hallie Mcculloch

Certified Culinary Arts instructor, B.S. Family and Consumer Sciences Education, amateur improviser!
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1234

9:00am CDT

Using CodeHS Academic Integrity Tools to Promote Authentic Student Learning (315)
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
As AI-generated code and peer copying become increasingly easy, maintaining academic integrity in CS and IT classrooms requires more than an honor policy — it requires smart, proactive systems. In this session led by CodeHS, participants will explore the full suite of tools available in the CodeHS Academic Integrity Center. Teachers will learn how to deter dishonesty before it happens and investigate suspected violations with confidence when it does. From plagiarism reports and code replay to time tracking, copy/paste prevention, and alternate exercises, this session equips teachers with practical strategies to build a classroom culture grounded in authentic learning and honest work.
Speakers
avatar for Dabney Eiland

Dabney Eiland

CTE Curriculum Coordinator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
1128

10:00am CDT

"See the Student, Not the Deficit: A PLC Framework for Asset-Based Decision Making" (288)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This professional development session will equip general and special education teachers with practical, asset-based strategies for student growth. Participants will engage in self-reflection, collaborative dialogue, scenario-based learning, and role-play to explore the impact of their language and thinking on student outcomes. The core focus is differentiating between asset-based and deficit-based mindsets. Participants will leave with tools to ensure their Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) consistently center on student strengths, possibilities, and development.
Together, we will explore three core ideas:
1. Your achievement lens shapes their ceiling.
2. Language is a lever for change.
3. Bias-checking is a team habit, not a one-time event.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Andrea Pickens

Dr. Andrea Pickens

7th Science Teacher & Team Lead
Dr. Andrea Pickens has served in various education and instructional leadership roles such as educator, math and science instructional coach, and director of professional learning since accepting the call to education over a decade ago. She currently serves as the 7th grade science... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1104

10:00am CDT

Assessment, Collaboration & Challenge: The Power of Digital Escape Rooms (16)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Looking for a way to boost engagement while maintaining academic rigor? Digital escape rooms combine critical thinking, collaboration, and purposeful assessment into one immersive learning experience. In this session, we’ll explore how secondary teachers can design and implement curriculum-aligned digital escape rooms that reinforce key concepts, promote problem-solving, and provide meaningful formative assessment opportunities. By the end of the session, you will leave with ready-to-use design strategies that work in real classrooms — without requiring advanced technical skills. Whether you’re new to gamification or looking to refine your practice, this session will equip you with tools to challenge students while making learning memorable.
Speakers
avatar for Kerri Connelly

Kerri Connelly

science teacher, Rock Hill HS
This coming year will be my 15th year of teaching. Currently, I teach honors biology and AP Environmental science. 
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1103

10:00am CDT

Beyond the Schedule: Guiding Middle School Students toward CCMR Outcomes (235)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Cultivating a student’s CCMR mindset begins well before high school; it starts by reimagining the 'Navigator' phase as a strategic launchpad for student agency and long-term CCMR success. This session reframes the Middle School "Navigator" phase, shifting it from passive course selection to a strategic engine for student agency. We will explore how to transition students from Active Investigators to Informed Designers.
By fostering a deep connection between classroom content and future "Why," we empower students to unlock high-school-credit courses and elite CTE tracks long before they step onto a high school campus. Participants will leave with a clear roadmap to navigate the specialized programs and endorsement pathways available within Prosper ISD, ensuring they can support every student in their quest to achieve a personalized and accelerated secondary experience.
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1121

10:00am CDT

Building a Culture of Excellence: Aligning Athletics with Campus Academic Mission. (132)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Come hear about how athletics is an extension of the classroom rather than separate from it
1. GPA/Eligibility Systems
2. Character Development Frameworks
3. Coach as a mentor culture
4. Wrapping all together with Data/Celebrations of Success
Speakers
avatar for Kristyn Shelton

Kristyn Shelton

Assistant Athletic Director, Prosper ISD Athletics
I have finished my 15th year in education and 15 years spent in Prosper ISD. My passion for education and athletics is unmatched. I enjoy discussing the ins and outs and x's and o's of any sport. I love to learn new techniques and pass my learning on to others anytime I can. What... Read More →
avatar for Terrenee Knight

Terrenee Knight

Assistant Athletic Coordinator, Prosper Walnut Grove HS
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2065

10:00am CDT

Building Connection Before Content: High Impact First Week Strategies (241)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
The first few days of school are a high-stakes window for capturing student buy-in and setting the tone for the entire year. This session helps you intentionally design a classroom culture rooted in mutual respect and student voice. We will model secondary-friendly activities that help you quickly learn who your students are while practicing collaborative methods for establishing classroom norms.
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 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1117

10:00am CDT

Building Leaders: Student Council at the Elementary Level (25)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Wondering how to get the most of your student council experience? Let's collaborate with a roundtable discussion on what is working for you and how you can build your students' leadership capacity. Come ready to share and leave with inspiration for next year's young leaders.
Speakers
avatar for Kim Cooper

Kim Cooper

GT Specialist
avatar for Karen Hutchinson

Karen Hutchinson

Kindergarten Teacher, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1202

10:00am CDT

Building Number Fluency & Confidence (using Multiplication Charts) (216)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
When calculators are not allowed, students’ confidence and ability to engage with grade-level content depend heavily on their number fluency. This session explores how multiplication charts can be used intentionally as a tool for building fluency and supporting mathematical reasoning—not just memorization.
Participants will learn routines and strategies that help students notice patterns, make connections across operations, and apply facts flexibly when working with fractions and ratios.
Participants will walk away with practical ways to turn multiplication tables into a powerful tool for reasoning, problem solving, and equitable access to rigorous math learning for all students, as well as some engaging fluency games that can be easily implemented in any classroom.
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2101

10:00am CDT

Creating Confident Writers in the Primary Writer's Workshop (Grades 1 and 2)- Advance (280)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
In this session, teachers will learn the instructional "moves" that have the highest impact on student achievement, focusing on how to help 1st and 2nd graders move from simple labeling to sophisticated, multi-sentence narrative and informational structures.
Speakers
TM

Tricia Myrie

Literacy Consultant
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1124

10:00am CDT

Diving Deeper: Hybrid Instructional Strategies with Snorkl (114)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
How do we ensure technology enhances, rather than hinders, student discourse? Join us to explore hybrid instructional models that blend "pen and paper" or "whiteboard" thinking with Snorkl. We will analyze high-impact scenarios where Snorkl is used to reflect on physical learning tasks, turning a simple classroom activity into a rich, data-driven learning experience.
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2235

10:00am CDT

Executive Functions: The Hidden Drivers of Learning and Behavior (417)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Every lesson, behavior, emotional reaction, forgotten assignment, shutdown, outburst, and success story in a classroom is being driven by one invisible system: executive functions. Attention, working memory, emotional regulation, impulse control, flexibility, planning, and self-monitoring are the brain skills that determine whether students can actually access learning and behavior expectations in the first place. In this powerful and practical session, educators will explore the neuroscience behind executive functions, why so many students appear “unmotivated” or “defiant” when the real issue is skill development, and what schools can immediately do to strengthen the brain systems that truly drive learning, behavior, mental health, and long-term outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Layne Pethick

Layne Pethick

Consultant, Region 10 ESC
Hi, I’m Layne Pethick—a guy who loves all things regarding the human brain and has spent a lifetime trying to figure out why we humans do what we do. By day, I’m a Neuro-Cognitive and Neuro-Behavioral Coach and a Behavior and Autism Spectrum Disorders Master Consultant for the... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2124

10:00am CDT

Formative 101: Dynamic, Data-Driven Learning Experiences (106)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This introductory session will explore Formative, a platform designed to transform traditional checks for understanding into interactive and insightful learning experiences. Teachers will gain proficiency in navigating the platform, building tasks that are aligned with TEKS, and utilizing live response data. Learn how to leverage this real-time data to provide immediate and constructive feedback to students.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Maple

Michelle Maple

ITC, Prosper ISD
avatar for Dessence Grant

Dessence Grant

Professional Learning Manager, Newslea
D’Essence Grant joined Newsela in 2025 as a Professional Learning Manager, bringing nearly a decade of experience from KIPP Texas. During her tenure, she served as an educator, mentor teacher, instructional coach, and Program Manager, specializing in bridging the gap between curriculum... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2228

10:00am CDT

Heggerty PK - 1st (94)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Fast, fun, and effective! Heggerty is a 10-minute daily lesson that delivers explicit instruction in critical phonemic awareness and early literacy skills, fitting seamlessly into your existing literacy instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Kellis Webb

Kellis Webb

Literacy Coach
My name is Kellis Webb and I have dedicated 23 years to education, spending 21 of those years in the kindergarten classroom.  For the past two years, I have stepped into the role of literacy coach, focusing on Reading Academy and supporting the diverse literacy needs of both students... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1217

10:00am CDT

Helping Each Other - Building a Community of Extra-Curricular Support (28)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Many extra-curricular and co-curricular events overlap with others. Come meet with a variety of Academic and CTE coaches to discuss how we can help each other. For example, in CTE there are events for speaking and we have a robust speech program to support.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1204

10:00am CDT

Hook Them In Before They Tune Out (331)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Motivation is critical to successful language learning, yet many educators face increasing student apathy. This session explores purposeful lesson hooks that spark curiosity, build confidence, and engage all learners from the start. Participants will analyze sample hooks, apply a checklist, and design an engaging hook for their own classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Amariz Acosta

Amariz Acosta

World Language Instructional Coach
With 22 years in education, I have dedicated my career to supporting student learning and growth. For 21 years, I taught a variety of courses including all levels of Spanish, Accounting, and BIM. This year, I transitioned into a new role as an Instructional Coach for World Languages... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1126

10:00am CDT

Introduction/Refresh of Texas Science (418)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
If you need an introduction or a refresh of Texas Science this is the session for you.You will be introduced to all aspects of Texas Science to make your job easier and willlearn how to use the program for student success!
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1210

10:00am CDT

Literacy Small Group in Action: K-1 (74)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Refine your ability to provide responsive instruction. In this session, participants will observe a small group in action to analyze real-time decision-making and instructional adjustments. Teachers will walk away with tips and tricks of systems, routines, and progress-monitoring strategies designed to meet the unique needs of the students in front of them. (*This is part 2 of a 2 part training for literacy small group instruction. Participation in both is encouraged but not required. “Literacy Library Unlocked” is the part 1 course.)
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Fowler

Jessica Fowler

Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1233

10:00am CDT

Math Workshop—What Students are Doing When You’re in Small Group (K-2) (405)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Learn how to structure math workshop so your students can become successful, independent learners,allowing you to maximize small group instruction. This session will focus on structure, accountability, andexpectations and will include sample tasks.
Speakers
avatar for Donna Boucher

Donna Boucher

Mathematics Consultant & Author, Math Coach's Corner
Donna Boucher brings a wealth of experience to the education world, having served as a teacher, math instructional coach, interventionist, and curriculum coordinator. Now, she partners with schools and districts to improve math outcomes and support effective teaching practices. A sought-after... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2120

10:00am CDT

More Than Just a Short Answer: Designing Authentic BCRs with Padlet (75)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Brief Constructed Responses don’t have to be "boring"! Learn how Padlet Sandbox can help you transform responses into engaging learning experiences while building your confidence with the tool. You’ll leave with a ready-to-use activity you designed yourself and can implement right away.
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1215

10:00am CDT

Notes As a Process, Not a Product (128)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Explore how effective note-taking supports student sense-making when it is treated as an ongoing process rather than a finished product. Using research-based strategies, we will examine how pausing instruction, scaffolding notes, and intentionally supporting revision and collaboration help students deepen understanding of scientific concepts. Teachers will leave with practical, classroom-ready approaches for designing note-taking routines that promote thinking, discussion, and learning.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1110

10:00am CDT

Phonics Foundations: A Guide to a Week in the Life of Kindergarten Phonics (297)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This session provides essential support for teachers new to the PISD phonics curriculum. We will explore our framework in a "Week at a Glance" approach and teach the basics of our research based phonics routines that balance explicit instruction, guided practice, and independent application.
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 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1221

10:00am CDT

Receptionist Roundtable (61)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Join fellow receptionists for an interactive roundtable designed to encourage collaboration and conversation. This session provides a space to share ideas, discuss day-to-day front office operations, and learn from one another’s experiences while receiving important updates that support campus operations.
Speakers
avatar for Lyle McLeroy

Lyle McLeroy

Executive Assistant - Business Services
I have been in Public Education since 2018.  Before then I was a stay at home to my three sons and spent 2 years working at Little Lighthouse Preschool in Prosper. In 2018, I started as a Library Aid in Celina ISD.  I was there for 4 years.  In 2022, I moved to Prosper ISD where... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2205

10:00am CDT

Refresh with AI (420)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Are you bored of the same old lessons to teach? Are you needing more student involvement? Have no fear! Claude is here to help you refreshen those lessons with minimal lifting from you.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1100

10:00am CDT

Small Moves, Big Gains: 1% Tweaks for 100% Engagement (378)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Excellence isn't always about the "Grand Gesture"—it's about the small, consistent habits that transform a classroom. Join us to discover how shifting your posture, your questioning, and your feedback loops can save you hours of frustration.
Speakers
avatar for Allison Hand

Allison Hand

Education Consultant, Seidlitz Education

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1101

10:00am CDT

The Art of the Pivot: Small Instructional Shifts for Big Results Focus: Enhancing student engagement through low-preparation, high-impact "small moves" in the Pre-K classroom. (64)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Excellence in early childhood education is often about accruing small improvements over time rather than radical change. This session provides Pre-K educators with a toolkit of "small moves"—practical, immediate teacher habits designed to help students talk more, think more, and achieve more. Participants will explore strategies to support the core foundations of listening, speaking, reading, and writing
Speakers
avatar for Michaela Geiter

Michaela Geiter

Elementary Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
avatar for Zakeia Kennedy

Zakeia Kennedy

Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2225

10:00am CDT

The Power of Connection: Advanced Padlet Strategies (110)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Elevate student engagement by integrating high-quality instructional strategies into your Padlet practice. This session explores how to use Padlet to facilitate Hexagonal Thinking and other collaborative strategies that challenge students to find and justify relationships between concepts. Join us to build a toolkit of advanced strategies that turn your digital space into a dynamic hub for student-led learning.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Leggat

Amy Leggat

Princess, Padlet
Texas education isn't just my job, it's my story.  Both degrees are from SHSU and I spent years teaching ELA/SS/ESL in Conroe ISD.  Now instead of bringing lesson plans to students, I get to bring tools to teachers.

Outside of Padlet, I'm probably chasing live music, wandering a... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2222

10:00am CDT

The Power of Partnership: Sparking Success Together (421)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Great teaching starts with great teamwork! In this session, participants will explore strategies to build positive, collaborative relationships with co-teachers, paraprofessionals, and teaching assistants. Through interactive discussions and practical scenarios, attendees will gain strategies to support mutual respect, communicate effectively, and align on goals to create a cohesive classroom environment. By igniting the spark of collaboration, you’ll unlock the full potential of your teaching team and set the stage for student success.
Speakers
avatar for Christine A. Collins

Christine A. Collins

Consultant, Region 10 ESC
Christine A. Collins is in her fifth year as an Early Childhood Consultant with Region 10. She is originally from Detroit Michigan, where for many years she taught children in Kindergarten through 4th grade. Upon coming to Texas, Christine provided instruction to Dallas ISD students... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
2224

10:00am CDT

The Truth about Direct Instruction (183)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This professional development session examines the research-based framework of Direct Instruction and its application in the modern classroom. While grounded in the foundational work of Siegfried Engelmann, the presentation focuses primarily on the instructional principles identified by Barak Rosenshine. The content addresses the technical distinctions between common perceptions of the methodology and its actual implementation as a structured, evidence-based approach to managing cognitive load. Participants will analyze how to transition students from initial instruction to high levels of accuracy through systematic scaffolding and targeted feedback.
Speakers
avatar for Devon Mize

Devon Mize

Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
Secondary Instructional Coach in Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1115

10:00am CDT

WIN Time: Systems that Work (212)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This session builds a clear understanding of WIN Time as a campus-wide system designed to meet student needs through intentional grouping and targeted instruction. Participants will explore the non-negotiables, structures, and routines that make cross-grade implementation successful. By the end, they will leave with a practical, ready-to-use framework to launch or refine WIN Time on their campus.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Clay

Heather Clay

Elementary Literacy Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1216

10:00am CDT

Your Course, Your Way: Content Pacing and Customization in CodeHS (316)
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
No two classrooms move at exactly the same pace — and no two teachers have exactly the same instructional goals. In this session led by CodeHS, participants will learn how to take control of their course structure and delivery using CodeHS's robust pacing and customization tools. Teachers will explore how to sequence and schedule content visibility, set due dates and milestones, add or remove assignments, build custom modules, and differentiate access for individual students or entire sections. Whether you're adapting a CodeHS course to fit your campus pacing guide, supplementing with your own materials, or building a course from scratch, this session gives you the hands-on skills to make the platform truly work for your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Dabney Eiland

Dabney Eiland

CTE Curriculum Coordinator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
1128

11:00am CDT

Ask the Experts: Open Q&A and Troubleshooting for CodeHS Teachers (317)
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Sometimes the most valuable professional development is having an expert in the room when you finally get to ask the question that's been slowing you down. In this session led by CodeHS, participants bring their real classroom challenges, platform questions, and workflow frustrations to the table. Whether you're stuck on a grading setting, unsure how to configure something for your specific course, trying to figure out why a student's submission isn't behaving as expected, or just want to know if CodeHS has a feature you haven't discovered yet — this is your time. Get experienced support and peer learning in a low-stakes, collaborative environment.
Speakers
avatar for Dabney Eiland

Dabney Eiland

CTE Curriculum Coordinator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
1128

11:00am CDT

Building a Culture of Excellence in Your Classroom (305)
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Do your students know you expect them to succeed—or just hope they will? What would change in your classroom if every student knew you expected them to succeed at a high level? In this session, you will feel empowered with simple strategies to implement in your classroom to build a culture of excellence where kids want to succeed as much as you want them to.
Speakers
avatar for Peyton Bunch

Peyton Bunch

5th Grade ELAR/SS, Cockrell Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT

11:00am CDT

Introduction/Refresh of Texas Science (424)
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
If you need an introduction or a refresh of Texas Science this is the session for you.You will be introduced to all aspects of Texas Science to make your job easier and willlearn how to use the program for student success!
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
1210

11:00am CDT

The Neuroscience of Autism: Moving Beyond Old Thinking (425)
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
For decades, autism has too often been viewed through the narrow lens of behavior, compliance, and outdated assumptions rather than current brain science. This engaging session explores emerging neuroscience revealing how the autistic brain is differently organized in areas involving sensory processing, executive functions, regulation, attention, movement, emotion, and information flow. Participants will examine how stress, predictability, co-regulation, movement, and learning environments directly impact autistic learners and why understanding the neurobiology beneath the behavior changes everything. Educators will leave with practical, brain-based strategies that move beyond control and compliance to create safer, more supportive, and more effective outcomes for autistic students.
Speakers
avatar for Layne Pethick

Layne Pethick

Consultant, Region 10 ESC
Hi, I’m Layne Pethick—a guy who loves all things regarding the human brain and has spent a lifetime trying to figure out why we humans do what we do. By day, I’m a Neuro-Cognitive and Neuro-Behavioral Coach and a Behavior and Autism Spectrum Disorders Master Consultant for the... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
2124

11:00am CDT

The Power of Partnership: Sparking Success Together (426)
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Great teaching starts with great teamwork! In this session, participants will explore strategies to build positive, collaborative relationships with co-teachers, paraprofessionals, and teaching assistants. Through interactive discussions and practical scenarios, attendees will gain strategies to support mutual respect, communicate effectively, and align on goals to create a cohesive classroom environment. By igniting the spark of collaboration, you’ll unlock the full potential of your teaching team and set the stage for student success.
Speakers
avatar for Christine A. Collins

Christine A. Collins

Consultant, Region 10 ESC
Christine A. Collins is in her fifth year as an Early Childhood Consultant with Region 10. She is originally from Detroit Michigan, where for many years she taught children in Kindergarten through 4th grade. Upon coming to Texas, Christine provided instruction to Dallas ISD students... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
2224

12:00pm CDT

A Day in the Life of Pre-K: Understanding Early Learning Through Play (63)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
This session is designed for new Pre-K teachers and kindergarten teachers who would benefit from understanding the structure of a blended Pre-K classroom. Participants will explore how play-based learning drives instruction while teachers differentiate instruction, collect observational data, assess student growth, utilize flexible grouping, and collaborate to support the development of young learners. This professional learning session provides educators with a window into what a typical day looks like in a high-quality Pre-K classroom. Participants will explore how early childhood learning is intentionally designed through play-based experiences, hands-on exploration, and language-rich interactions. The session highlights the essential Pre-K standards, the blended Pre-K classroom model, and developmentally appropriate instructional practices that support young learners. Participants will gain insight into how foundational skills in literacy, math, language, and social development are nurtured through structured routines, learning centers, and purposeful teacher interactions. Through hands-on activities and real classroom examples, teachers will learn how play serves as a powerful tool for developing problem-solving, communication, and independence in young children. By the end of the session, educators will leave with a deeper understanding of the Pre-K learning environment and how it prepares students for future academic success.
Speakers
PM

Penny Morgan

Early Childhood Special Education Teacher, Prosper ISD
Hello!

I currently teach Pre-K with Prosper ISD and this is my 4th year attending this workshop! I absolutely love it and cannot wait to learn new and innovative ways to help my students learn and grow! This is my 15th year in early childhood special education and my 5th year with ECSE in... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
2225

12:00pm CDT

Building a Team - Strategies on the Culture of building ACADEMIC UIL teams (26)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Experienced coaches known for having large and committed teams share their tips and tricks for getting students involved and keeping them involved in the extra-curricular activities. When the draw of competition isn't enough, these strategies will help you keep students coming back year after year.
Speakers
HR

Hannah Rodriguez

Speech & Debate Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
1204

12:00pm CDT

Diving into Snorkl: Real-Time Feedback for Real Student Growth (113)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Move beyond the final answer and dive deep into student thinking with Snorkl. This introductory session will show you how to capture more student ideas by giving them a digital space to verbalize their thought process. You will learn to navigate the platform, explore standards-aligned activities, and discover how AI-powered feedback can transform a simple task into a powerful tool for growth.
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
2235

12:00pm CDT

Formative: More Than a Check for Understanding (107)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Participants will learn to design engaging, interactive lessons that prioritize student voice and make thinking visible, focusing on effective Tier 1 instruction. This session focuses on integrating constructive, immediate feedback and using real-time student data to drive instruction. Attendees will leave with a completed, TEKS-aligned lesson ready for immediate use, along with a strategy for utilizing data to plan their subsequent instructional steps.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Maple

Michelle Maple

ITC, Prosper ISD
avatar for Dessence Grant

Dessence Grant

Professional Learning Manager, Newslea
D’Essence Grant joined Newsela in 2025 as a Professional Learning Manager, bringing nearly a decade of experience from KIPP Texas. During her tenure, she served as an educator, mentor teacher, instructional coach, and Program Manager, specializing in bridging the gap between curriculum... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
2228

12:00pm CDT

From Scribbles to Stories: Scaffolding the Kindergarten Writer's Workshop (advance) (278)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
How do we move from "scribbles on a page" to intentional, self-regulated writing? Using the principles outlined in Visible Learning and the Gradual Release of Responsibility, this session equips Kindergarten teachers with strategies needed to launch and sustain a successful Writer’s Workshop.
Participants will explore how to transition from Teacher Modeling (I Do) to Collaborative Writing (We Do) and finally to Independent Application (You Do), ensuring every student—regardless of their starting point—sees themselves as an author.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Brantzeg

Michelle Brantzeg

Kindergarten Teacher
With 22 years in education, including 17 years in kindergarten, I am passionate about creating a classroom where young learners feel supported, confident, and excited to learn. I hold a Master’s degree in Elementary Math and Language Arts and love helping children grow academically... Read More →
TM

Tricia Myrie

Literacy Consultant
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
1124

12:00pm CDT

Interactive Read Aloud: Mastering Intentional Discourse for Deeper Comprehension (247)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Transform your read-alouds from a passive listening experience into a powerhouse for student thinking. In this session, participants will learn how to intentionally plan and deliver interactive read-alouds that promote meaningful student discourse and ensure the rich thinking transfers to students’ independent reading and writing.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Garavaglia

Heather Garavaglia

Librarian, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
1212

12:00pm CDT

Math Workshop—What Students are Doing When You’re in Small Group (3-5) (406)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Learn how to structure math workshop so your students can become successful, independent learners,allowing you to maximize small group instruction. This session will focus on structure, accountability, andexpectations and will include sample tasks.
Speakers
avatar for Donna Boucher

Donna Boucher

Mathematics Consultant & Author, Math Coach's Corner
Donna Boucher brings a wealth of experience to the education world, having served as a teacher, math instructional coach, interventionist, and curriculum coordinator. Now, she partners with schools and districts to improve math outcomes and support effective teaching practices. A sought-after... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
2120

12:00pm CDT

Small Moves, Big Gains: 1% Tweaks for 100% Engagement (380)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Excellence isn't always about the "Grand Gesture"—it's about the small, consistent habits that transform a classroom. Join us to discover how shifting your posture, your questioning, and your feedback loops can save you hours of frustration.
Speakers
avatar for Allison Hand

Allison Hand

Education Consultant, Seidlitz Education

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
1101

12:00pm CDT

Social Emotional Learning Resources (223)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
This session focuses on exploring a variety of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) resources and curriculum options available for use in Prosper ISD. Staff will be introduced to practical tools, programs, and strategies that support the development of key SEL skills, while also learning how to align these resources with student needs, classroom routines, and existing behavior supports.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
2205

12:00pm CDT

Tech that Supports: Supporting Diverse Learners in GenEd and Resource Classrooms (381)
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Less theory, more "I can actually use this." Discover how technology can open doors for diverse learners in both general education and resource settings, with hands-on tools and real classroom strategies you can implement right away.
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
1100

1:00pm CDT

5 Tips for Choosing Better Workstations (407)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
With students spending more time in math workshop, it’s essential that they are provided with high-qualitytasks and held accountable for the work they do. Example tasks, which you’ll be able to download, illustrateeach of the tips in this session.
Speakers
avatar for Donna Boucher

Donna Boucher

Mathematics Consultant & Author, Math Coach's Corner
Donna Boucher brings a wealth of experience to the education world, having served as a teacher, math instructional coach, interventionist, and curriculum coordinator. Now, she partners with schools and districts to improve math outcomes and support effective teaching practices. A sought-after... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2120

1:00pm CDT

Being an Elementary UIL Academic Campus Coordinator (30)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Attendees will learn the resources provided to them and strategies for handling the position of UIL Academic Campus Coordinator smoothly. All Coordinators are encouraged to attend to get prepared for the upcoming school year.
Speakers
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 →
HR

Hannah Rodriguez

Speech & Debate Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1204

1:00pm CDT

Beyond Mastery: Meaningful Extensions for Pre-K’s Most Ready Learners (103)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
In every Pre-K classroom, some students quickly demonstrate mastery of key skills and standards. The challenge then becomes: What’s next? This professional learning session helps teachers design meaningful extension opportunities that deepen thinking rather than simply adding more work. Participants will explore how to intentionally plan extensions for students who have already mastered learning targets (Q4 students in the PLC model) by increasing complexity, creativity, language, and problem solving within play-based learning environments. Teachers will leave with practical strategies, planning tools, and examples that support continued growth for advanced learners while maintaining developmentally appropriate, engaging experiences.
Speakers
avatar for Paola Bayo Rodriguez

Paola Bayo Rodriguez

Blended Pre-K Teacher
Hello! My name is Paola Bayo, and I am excited to be entering my 5th year teaching in Prosper Independent School District. I have had the opportunity to teach students from Pre-K through 2nd grade around the world, including in Spain, Japan, Germany, and now here in Texas.Teaching... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2225

1:00pm CDT

Creating Confident Writers in the Intermediate Writer's Workshop (Grades 3-5)- Advance (282)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Students in Grades 3-5 are moving from learning to write to using writing as a tool for critical thinking across the curriculum. Teachers will explore ways to equip intermediate writers with the strategies and skills to compose multiple genres.
Speakers
TM

Tricia Myrie

Literacy Consultant
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1124

1:00pm CDT

DBQ in a Day: Quick Writes, Engagement, and Analysis Strategies for Stronger Student Thinking (167)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Looking for ways to incorporate high-quality DBQ materials into your daily lessons without dedicating multiple class periods to the full DBQ process? This session will introduce you to practical, flexible strategies that bring DBQ instruction into any social studies classroom on any given day. Participants will explore quick write techniques, student engagement strategies, and document analysis approaches that make historical thinking both accessible and meaningful. Learn how to leverage DBQ Project resources in time-efficient ways while strengthening students’ CER (Claim, Evidence, Reasoning) writing skills and deepening their ability to analyze and interpret sources.
Walk away with ready-to-use tools that increase student engagement, support critical thinking, and build stronger analytical writing habits—without sacrificing valuable instructional time.
Speakers
avatar for John Smetzer

John Smetzer

8th Grade U.S. History, Reynolds
Secondary Social Studies Teacher leading sessions related to responsive instruction and social studies instructional strategies.
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1104

1:00pm CDT

Diving Deeper: Hybrid Instructional Strategies with Snorkl (115)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
How do we ensure technology enhances, rather than hinders, student discourse? Join us to explore hybrid instructional models that blend "pen and paper" or "whiteboard" thinking with Snorkl. We will analyze high-impact scenarios where Snorkl is used to reflect on physical learning tasks, turning a simple classroom activity into a rich, data-driven learning experience.
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2235

1:00pm CDT

Edugence 101: Navigating the Essentials (214)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Unlock the power of Edugence with this beginner-friendly session designed to help educators and administrators confidently navigate the platform. In this 50-minute session, we’ll provide a step-by-step walkthrough of essential features, including accessing student data, running reports, and utilizing key tools for instructional decision-making. Whether you're new to Edugence or need a refresher, this session will equip you with the foundational skills needed to streamline your workflow and maximize student success.
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2222

1:00pm CDT

Formative: More Than a Check for Understanding (108)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Participants will learn to design engaging, interactive lessons that prioritize student voice and make thinking visible, focusing on effective Tier 1 instruction. This session focuses on integrating constructive, immediate feedback and using real-time student data to drive instruction. Attendees will leave with a completed, TEKS-aligned lesson ready for immediate use, along with a strategy for utilizing data to plan their subsequent instructional steps.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Maple

Michelle Maple

ITC, Prosper ISD
avatar for Dessence Grant

Dessence Grant

Professional Learning Manager, Newslea
D’Essence Grant joined Newsela in 2025 as a Professional Learning Manager, bringing nearly a decade of experience from KIPP Texas. During her tenure, she served as an educator, mentor teacher, instructional coach, and Program Manager, specializing in bridging the gap between curriculum... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2228

1:00pm CDT

From Chaos to Clarity: AI for Special Education Teachers (382)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Special education teachers in self-contained and resource settings face the daily challenge of balancing complex instruction, intensive behavior support, data collection, and family communication—often with limited planning time. This session explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can serve as a powerful partner in reducing cognitive overload and streamlining professional responsibilities.
Using the High-Leverage Practices (HLPs) framework as a guide, presenters will demonstrate practical, evidence-based applications for AI across four essential domains: Collaboration, Data-Driven Planning, Instruction, and Behavior, with an emphasis on instruction and behavior. Participants will learn how to move beyond generic tools to create highly individualized student supports—from drafting family-friendly progress summaries and visual schedules to analyzing behavior patterns and generating multi-level academic materials.
Through real-world examples and sample prompts, this session highlights how early-career teachers are currently using AI to enhance instructional precision while maintaining the human-centered, ethical, and relational heart of special education.
Speakers
avatar for Anna Ballard

Anna Ballard

Secondary Inclusion Teacher
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1126

1:00pm CDT

Literacy Library Unlocked: Grades 2-5 (71)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
This session will offer teachers the opportunity to learn about the campus literacy library and all it has to offer. We will walk participants through responsive ELAR Small Group Instruction using the resources found in the literacy library (leveled texts, lesson folders, decodable texts, Reading/Writing strategies books). We will also discuss how to incorporate responsive writing instruction with the literacy library resources in the literacy small group structure. We will also talk through how teaching up can be accomplished through small group while using the lesson folder as a starting point.
Speakers
avatar for Fabiana Vaughn

Fabiana Vaughn

Instructional Coach, T&L Department
avatar for Erika Hutchinson

Erika Hutchinson

Instructional Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1233

1:00pm CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 1st Grade (advanced) (207)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1218

1:00pm CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 3rd Grade (Advance) (203)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Speakers
avatar for HyeYon Theos

HyeYon Theos

Rucker Elementary
I am currently a 3rd grade teacher at Rucker Elementary.  Next year, I will be teaching 4th grade ELAR only at Rucker Elementary.  I have taught for 13 years in 3rd and 4th grade.  My husband and I have been married for 19 years and we have 3 kids.  Zachary will be in 8th grade... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Zabasky

Lisa Zabasky

3rd Grade Teacher
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1223

1:00pm CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 5th Grade (advanced) (199)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful support for high levels of growth in literacy. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Speakers
avatar for Peyton Bunch

Peyton Bunch

5th Grade ELAR/SS, Cockrell Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1221

1:00pm CDT

Neurodiversity Affirming Practices in the Classroom (242)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
This interactive workshop teaches special education and general education teachers how to support neurodivergent students by building on strengths instead of focusing on deficits. Participants will learn what neurodiversity-affirming practice looks like, how these practices can be implemented in IEP goals and accommodations, and classroom strategies that honor students' needs without forcing them to act "normal."
Speakers
avatar for Bridget Fleming

Bridget Fleming

Speech-Language Pathologist
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2216

1:00pm CDT

Number Talks & Other Numeracy Tasks to Kick Off the Math Workshop (59)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Kick off your math workshop with powerful routines that build students’ number sense and mathematical thinking. In this session, teachers will explore Number Talks and other short numeracy routines that engage students in reasoning, strategy sharing, and meaningful math discourse. Participants will leave with practical routines that are quick to implement and help create a strong mathematical start to every math block.
Speakers
avatar for Kim Burch

Kim Burch

Elementary Math Coordinator, PISD
I LOVE all things Math and Prosper ISD!
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1219

1:00pm CDT

Phonics Foundations: A Guide to a Week in the Life of Fourth and Fifth Grade Phonics (293)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
This session provides essential support for teachers new to the PISD phonics curriculum. We will explore our framework in a "Week at a Glance" approach and teach the basics of our research based phonics routines that balance explicit instruction, guided practice, and independent application.
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 →
avatar for Lauren Spurr

Lauren Spurr

PK-12 Literacy Coordinator & Reading Academy Cohort Leader
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1225

1:00pm CDT

PISD Student Councils Unite! (249)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Get ready to connect, collaborate, and create! This session brings together student councils, from Elementary to High School, from across the district to share exciting ideas, showcase successful projects, and plan for upcoming events. It’s a chance to learn from each other, spark new inspiration, and build a stronger, more united student leadership community.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1115

1:00pm CDT

Play, Learn, Grow: Small Group Success (174)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Join us for a session all about how to provide intentional push-in small group instruction during purposeful play centers to maximize student learning without disrupting play. Participants will explore strategies for embedding targeted skills, scaffold learning, and differentiate instruction while children are actively engaged in meaningful, hands-on activities.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Thorpe

Jennifer Thorpe

Blended PreK Teacher, Prosper ISD
Jenn is a Blended PreK teacher in Prosper ISD and has spent 17 years in the Early Childhood classroom. She is the mother of two young boys and has been married for 16 years. Jenn has a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas Woman's University and is currently working... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2224

1:00pm CDT

Pop Into Engagement! (326)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Are your students tuned out and just going through the motions? It's time to flip the script! In this hands-on session, you won't just hear about engagement strategies — you'll experience them. Step into your students' shoes through role-play, demonstrations, and simulations, and walk away with a ready-to-use toolkit you can implement tomorrow. Come ready to move, think, and have a little fun. Your students will thank you.
Speakers
avatar for Kelley Henderson

Kelley Henderson

CTE Coordinator, Prosper ISD
Kelley Henderson brings over two decades of dedicated service to education, with 22 years of experience shaping career and technical education pathways for students. Currently serving as a CTE Coordinator, she has spent 16 years with Prosper ISD, where she spent 12 years as a CTE... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1118

1:00pm CDT

Revit Ready: Building Confidence for Teaching with Autodesk Revit (324)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
This collaborative session is designed for teachers who use Autodesk Revit and want practical support before the school year begins. Participants will explore foundational Revit tools, classroom-ready instructional strategies, and solutions to common challenges teachers face when implementing Revit in Architecture & Construction courses.

Whether you are brand new to Revit or looking to strengthen your instructional practice, this session will provide hands-on guidance, troubleshooting support, and opportunities to collaborate with other educators. Attendees will leave with greater confidence, practical classroom ideas, and resources they can immediately apply to support student success throughout the school year. #BeginnerFriendly #BringYourQuestions

Speakers
avatar for Bart Jacobsen

Bart Jacobsen

CTE Coordinator, Prosper ISD
I am a CTE Coordinator supporting Architecture & Construction, Law & Public Service, JROTC, and Transportation pathways. Previously, I taught Architectural Design and Aerospace Engineering at Prosper High School.

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1128

1:00pm CDT

Small Moves, Big Gains: 1% Tweaks for 100% Engagement (379)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Excellence isn't always about the "Grand Gesture"—it's about the small, consistent habits that transform a classroom. Join us to discover how shifting your posture, your questioning, and your feedback loops can save you hours of frustration.
Speakers
avatar for Allison Hand

Allison Hand

Education Consultant, Seidlitz Education

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1101

1:00pm CDT

Strategic CCMR Attainment & Post-Secondary Autonomy (234)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Think CCMR is just a data point on a spreadsheet? Think again. This session reframes the High School "Architect" and Post-Secondary "Pilot" phases, shifting them from a quest for a diploma to a strategic engine for professional autonomy. We will explore how to transition students from Informed Designers to Skilled Operators who graduate with a "License to Thrive."
By focusing on the "Triple Crown" of readiness—College, Career, and Miltary—we empower students to build the bridge to their own future. Participants will exit with a roadmap to support students as they navigate Prosper ISD’s specialized programs and endorsement pathways, ensuring every graduate does more than just 'launch'—they arrive at their destination ready to lead.
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1121

1:00pm CDT

The Neuroscience of Autism: Moving Beyond Old Thinking (428)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
For decades, autism has too often been viewed through the narrow lens of behavior, compliance, and outdated assumptions rather than current brain science. This engaging session explores emerging neuroscience revealing how the autistic brain is differently organized in areas involving sensory processing, executive functions, regulation, attention, movement, emotion, and information flow. Participants will examine how stress, predictability, co-regulation, movement, and learning environments directly impact autistic learners and why understanding the neurobiology beneath the behavior changes everything. Educators will leave with practical, brain-based strategies that move beyond control and compliance to create safer, more supportive, and more effective outcomes for autistic students.
Speakers
avatar for Layne Pethick

Layne Pethick

Consultant, Region 10 ESC
Hi, I’m Layne Pethick—a guy who loves all things regarding the human brain and has spent a lifetime trying to figure out why we humans do what we do. By day, I’m a Neuro-Cognitive and Neuro-Behavioral Coach and a Behavior and Autism Spectrum Disorders Master Consultant for the... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
2124

1:00pm CDT

The Power of Picture Books in All Content Areas (52)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Picture books are not just for elementary classrooms. In secondary settings, they can be powerful tools for building background knowledge, strengthening critical thinking, and supporting content mastery across all subject areas. This session highlights practical strategies for integrating picture books into middle and high school classrooms to introduce complex concepts, spark discussion, reinforce vocabulary, and deepen comprehension. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas that support literacy while enhancing instruction in every content area.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Surratt

Melissa Surratt

Reynolds Middle School Librarian
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1111

1:00pm CDT

WIN Time That Delivers: From Data to Instruction (213)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
In this session, teachers will learn how to use student data to form flexible, homogeneous groups and design targeted instruction that meets varying needs. Participants will reflect on their current WIN Time practices and refine their approach for greater impact. By the end, they will leave with a clear, actionable plan to implement WIN Time effectively in Unit 1.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Clay

Heather Clay

Elementary Literacy Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1214

1:00pm CDT

World Traditions in the Music Room (55)
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Mid-Autumn Festival, Diwali, Lunar New Year, Holi, AAPI Month, Sakura season, and more! Take 5-10 minutes at the start of your music lesson to recognize a culture different from our own, listen to a related song, and acknowledge the changing seasons will add richness and vibrancy to your music classroom! Our Prosper students love to learn, and adding a small recognition of the vibrancy of our world cultures will grow your students education and empathy.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
1100

2:00pm CDT

Being a Middle School or High School UIL Academic Campus Coordinator (31)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Attendees will learn the resources provided to them and strategies for handling the position of UIL Academic Campus Coordinator smoothly. All Coordinators are encouraged to attend to get prepared for the upcoming school year.
Speakers
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 →
HR

Hannah Rodriguez

Speech & Debate Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1204

2:00pm CDT

Creating Confident Writers in the Primary Writer's Workshop (Grades 1 and 2)- Introduction (279)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
In this session, teachers will learn the instructional "moves" that have the highest impact on student achievement, focusing on how to help 1st and 2nd graders move from simple labeling to sophisticated, multi-sentence narrative and informational structures.
Speakers
TM

Tricia Myrie

Literacy Consultant
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1124

2:00pm CDT

DBQ Basics for Elementary Grades 2-5 (237)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
What’s a DBQ? In this session, we will break down the DBQ process and what that could look like in the elementary classroom. Participants will leave the session with clarity and an understanding of the basics needed to launch a DBQ with their students.
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1216

2:00pm CDT

Feedback Forensics (98)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Turn your students into Feedback detectives to increase metacognition and deeper learning for student growth. This session will cover the research behind different types of feedback, how to increase student ownership of feedback, and practical feedback processes to implement with your students.
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1102

2:00pm CDT

Formative Building Elementary CFAs (236)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
In this session, teachers will learn how to efficiently build high-quality Common Formative Assessments (CFAs) using Formative.com. We will focus on strategies to streamline the creation process while ensuring assessments are aligned, purposeful, and rigorous. Participants will explore what to prioritize when designing questions that provide meaningful, actionable data to guide instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Derek Haney

Derek Haney

Instructional Technology, Prosper ISD
With 14 years in education and six as an Instructional Technology Coach for Prosper ISD, I am passionate about empowering elementary educators to seamlessly integrate technology into their classrooms. My focus is on providing practical, effective strategies to enhance student learning... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
2222

2:00pm CDT

Foster Creativity in Pre-K (Emphasizing Process over Product) (306)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
This training session explores the concept of process art and its role in early childhood classrooms. Emphasis is placed on shifting the focus from producing a perfect final product to valuing the creative process itself. Educators will gain practical strategies to support student exploration, choice, and individuality, while recognizing the importance of the learning, thinking, and problem-solving that occur during art experiences.
Speakers
avatar for Sindhuja Muthukumar

Sindhuja Muthukumar

Hello! I am Sindhu and I am an Instructional Assistant at Calhoun Early Childhood School.
I have been in early childhood education for 6 years with children ranging from 3 to 6 years old.
I believe school for all ages is meant to be magical, playful, and fun. My passion is to light a fire in children, showing them there is wonder all around just waiting to be discovered. I am passionate about process art because it helps me connect with the children while they crea... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1235

2:00pm CDT

Fostering Deep Connections (325)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Building a toolkit of connection strategies designed to foster a deeper connection with students without adding hours to your workload. We will discuss how to transform the classroom into an inviting, inclusive, and connected learning environment for optimal student success.  We will discuss the why, the brain, and creative ideas to implement in your classroom from day 1.  
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1121

2:00pm CDT

From Curriculum to Credential: Mastering Certiport & GMetrix (313)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Industry-based certifications are powerful tools for student success and it is important for educators to feel confident navigating the platforms behind them. In this hands-on professional learning session, participants will take a guided deep dive into Certiport and GMetrix, two of the leading platforms for industry certification testing. From account creation to classroom setup, test assignment, and score reporting, we'll walk through every step of the process together. Whether you're brand new to certification testing or looking to streamline your current workflow, this session will leave you equipped and ready to launch a certification program in your classroom with confidence.
Speakers
avatar for Kelley Moss

Kelley Moss

Career & Technical Education Coordinator, Prosper ISD
avatar for Dabney Eiland

Dabney Eiland

CTE Curriculum Coordinator, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1128

2:00pm CDT

From Unit Planner to Daily Plans: Bridging the Planning Gap (431)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Let’s be honest: it’s easy to get lost between the "big picture" unit plan and what actually needs to happen on a Tuesday morning. This session is about closing that gap so your daily instruction actually matches your unit goals. We’ll work on turning those broad plans into simple daily wins, making sure every lesson has a clear focus and a path to student success.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1217

2:00pm CDT

Google Sheet: Simple Tricks to Save You Hours (220)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
This interactive "plan and learn" session will guide participants through a range of time saving shortcuts in Google Sheets. The session will include foundational tips (including some familiar tools and a few you may not have discovered yet)and then progress to more lesser-known shortcuts including learning and applying the one formula that will save your valuable time.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Cozart

Sarah Cozart

504/Testing at Rushing, Rushing Middle School
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT

2:00pm CDT

Literacy Small Group in Action: 2-5 (72)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Refine your ability to provide responsive instruction. In this session, participants will observe a small group in action to analyze real-time decision-making and instructional adjustments. Teachers will walk away with tips and tricks of systems, routines, and progress-monitoring strategies designed to meet the unique needs of the students in front of them. (*This is part 2 of a 2 part training for literacy small group instruction. Participation in both is encouraged but not required. “Literacy Library Unlocked” is the part 1 course.)
Speakers
avatar for Fabiana Vaughn

Fabiana Vaughn

Instructional Coach, T&L Department
avatar for Erika Hutchinson

Erika Hutchinson

Instructional Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1233

2:00pm CDT

Measure What Matters: Using Data to Drive CTE Success (328)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
You're already collecting data — but is it telling you anything useful? In this session, you'll move beyond gradebooks and test scores to uncover the qualitative data already happening in your classroom every day. Learn how to define mastery, track student progress with simple systems, and turn evidence into confident instructional decisions.
Speakers
avatar for Kelley Henderson

Kelley Henderson

CTE Coordinator, Prosper ISD
Kelley Henderson brings over two decades of dedicated service to education, with 22 years of experience shaping career and technical education pathways for students. Currently serving as a CTE Coordinator, she has spent 16 years with Prosper ISD, where she spent 12 years as a CTE... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1118

2:00pm CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 2nd Grade (advance) (205)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1223

2:00pm CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in 4th Grade (advance) (201)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1221

2:00pm CDT

Navigating the ELAR Workshop in Kindergarten (advance) (209)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
The ELAR Workshop is a powerful structure used to support high levels of literacy growth. This session explores the architecture of the ELAR workshop, focusing on how to build student agency through choice and voice. We’ll navigate the challenges of fostering deep engagement during independent reading and writing, and explore how to use conferring as a bridge to student mastery.
Speakers
avatar for Meg Stevens

Meg Stevens

Kindergarten Teacher, Prosper ISD
avatar for Shelby Matthews

Shelby Matthews

Kindergarten Teacher, Bryant Elementary
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1218

2:00pm CDT

Neurodiversity‑Affirming Classrooms: Small Shifts, Big Impact (139)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
What if "challenging behaviors" were actually "unmet needs"? In this hands-on session, we shift the lens from a compliance-based model to a neurodiversity-affirming approach. Rather than focusing on "fixing" the student, we explore how to "fix" the environment to support diverse brains. Participants will move beyond theory to practice, conducting a 360-degree sensory audit of a classroom and testing a "toolkit" of low-cost, high-impact strategies. You will leave with a concrete "one-inch shift" plan. a single, immediate change you can implement tomorrow to reduce cognitive load, honor sensory needs, and foster a culture of belonging for every learner in your building.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
2211

2:00pm CDT

Phonics Foundations: A Guide to a Week in the Life of Second Grade Phonics (298)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
This session provides essential support for teachers new to the PISD phonics curriculum. We will explore our framework in a "Week at a Glance" approach and teach the basics of our research based phonics routines that balance explicit instruction, guided practice, and independent application.
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 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1225

2:00pm CDT

Playdough Power in Pre-K! (275)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Strategies for using Playdough as a learning tool to help build fine motor skills, writing skills, vocabulary and social emotional skills in centers and small groups for our PreK students.
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
2225

2:00pm CDT

Responsive Instruction in Action: Using Data to Drive Flexible Grouping (187)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
This session will guide teachers through a practical process for turning common formative assessment data into targeted, responsive instruction. Participants will learn how to break down data by learning target, identify specific student needs, and create flexible groups for both intervention and extension. The session will also highlight how teams can collaborate by sharing students and leveraging teacher strengths to maximize impact and ensure all learners receive the support they need.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Lumpkin

Katie Lumpkin

8th grade US History Teacher, Reynolds Middle School
Secondary Social Studies Teacher leading sessions related to responsive instruction and social studies instructional strategies.  
avatar for John Smetzer

John Smetzer

8th Grade U.S. History, Reynolds
Secondary Social Studies Teacher leading sessions related to responsive instruction and social studies instructional strategies.
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1104

2:00pm CDT

Stop Scribing, Start Thriving: Active Processing in Grades 3–5 (215)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Are your students recording your words, or are they actually learning them? It’s time for notes to live in students' heads and not just their notebooks! Stop Scribing, Start Thriving is designed for upper elementary teachers ready to trade 'copy-and-paste' habits for authentic student understanding and note-making. Discover how to empower your 3rd–5th graders to synthesize information in their own voices.
Speakers
avatar for Dani Encinias

Dani Encinias

Instructional Coach

Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1214

2:00pm CDT

Teaching That Clicks: When Strategies, Tools, and Outcomes Align (67)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Great lessons do more than include engaging activities—they align strategies and tools with clear student learning outcomes. Educators will analyze how strategies and resources function together to promote student growth, while refining existing lessons to strengthen instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Becky Covington

Becky Covington

Instructional Coach, Prosper-ISD
I have had the privilege to be an educator for over 30 years and have taught all grades PK-7, with extensive experience in ESL, bilingual and dual language.  I have always had a love for curriculum development, which has led me to my current role as an instructional coach.
avatar for Shelli Brown

Shelli Brown

Secondary World Language Instructional Coach

Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1112

2:00pm CDT

Teaching Up with Academic Language: Increasing Rigor Through Words, Sentences, and Discourse (47)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Increasing rigor requires attention to the language students use to think, speak, and write. In this practical, interactive session, participants will explore a three-layer framework for strengthening academic language at the word, sentence, and discourse levels. Educators will leave with ready-to-use strategies, sentence stems, and paragraph frames that immediately elevate student thinking across upper elementary content areas.
Speakers
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1212

2:00pm CDT

The Management Masterclass: Building Success through Intentional Routines (84)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Classroom management is the foundation upon which all learning is built. This session is designed for any educator looking to refine the daily routines that drive student success. Participants will explore high-leverage routines that ensure consistency, smoother transitions, and increased student engagement. Whether you are a new teacher or a veteran, this session provides the practical tools and troubleshooting scenarios needed to finish the year strong.
Speakers
avatar for Erin Fitzgerald

Erin Fitzgerald

Secondary Math Instructional Coach
This will be my 10th year in Prosper ISD and my 14th year in education.
avatar for Rebekah Smith

Rebekah Smith

Secondary Social Studies Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1113

2:00pm CDT

The Power of the Visual Non-Glossary: Turning Vocabulary into Conversations (158)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Participants will explore how the Visual Non-Glossary transforms vocabulary instruction into a student-centered, language-building experience. Educators will examine how carefully designed visuals help students infer meaning, make connections, and participate in rich academic discussions—regardless of their background knowledge or language proficiency. We will engage with sample visuals, practice structured discussion strategies, and explore ways to incorporate the VNG into daily instruction to support equity, academic discourse, and deeper conceptual understanding. By the end of the session, educators will walk away with practical strategies to help students move beyond memorizing definitions to actively using and owning academic vocabulary.
Speakers
avatar for Paige Dean

Paige Dean

4th grade math/science teacher
avatar for Nicole McCasland

Nicole McCasland

Instructional Coach, Prosper ISD
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1215

2:00pm CDT

The Roving Framework: Adapting Literacy Scaffolds for Problem Solving (58)
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Tired of students getting "stuck" on multi-step problems or staring at blank pages during writing? In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to adapt the "Roving Paragraph" strategy into a high-engagement, collaborative rotation. We will explore how to use this movement-based technique to tackle the 6-Step Problem Solving Framework in Math and paragraph construction in ELAR. Leave with a "plug-and-play" strategy that turns individual struggle into collective success!
Speakers
avatar for Kelsey Longtin

Kelsey Longtin

Instructional Coach
Thursday July 30, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
1219
 
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