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Welcome to URSA 2026 at Southern Utah University! All sessions will be in buildings on the upper campus (east end). Here’s the Campus Map (PDF) if needed. 
Subject: Instructional Coaches clear filter
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Thursday, July 16
 

9:45am MDT

20 in 20: Rapid-Fire Strategies for Classroom Engagement
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:03am MDT
🕒 Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

Buckle up for a high-speed tour of 20 actionable strategies designed to wake up your classroom. In just 20 minutes, we’ll do a full circle tour of of purposeful movement, structured talk, and seamless tech integration. You’ll leave this session with ready-to-use tactics that turn passive listeners into active participants.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Emma Moss

Emma Moss

Digital Teaching & Learning Specialist, Canyons School District
Emma Moss is a Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist and AI Project Co-Lead in Canyons School District, as well as the Artificial Intelligence for K-12 Program Director in Utah. She founded the Utah AI Collaborative and leads monthly meet-ups on AI and innovation in education... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:03am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

Canva Reimagined: Unlock the Magic
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Move beyond static slides and embrace active learning! Join us for an immersive look into Canva’s Magic Studio. We’ll show you how to use Magic Media and Magic Design to transform K-12 lessons into personalized, interactive experiences. Plus, discover "next level" tools like Magic Activities, Canva Sheets, and Code for me—empowering students to build apps and games without writing code. Turn students into creators and unlock a world of magic that makes school future-ready.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Android Tablet / Smartphone; iPad / iPhone; Windows Tablet / Smartphone; Chromebook

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Kayla Towner

Kayla Towner

Senior Product Trainer, UEN - Utah Education Network
Kayla Towner is a Senior Product Trainer at the Utah Education Network (UEN) and, first and foremost, a passionate educator. She loves spending time with her family—playing soccer ⚽️, reading books 📚, hiking 🥾, and adventuring across Utah 🏔️. Kayla is dedicated to... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

Making Sheets Work For You
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Go beyond the basics and learn some ways to have Google Sheets do some of the busy work for you so that you can narrow in on the important things.  We will talk about several formulas for organizing data and even throw in some AI helps to get things just how you want them!

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Chromebook
Speakers
SK

Stacey King

Teacher, Utah Online School
Stacey grew up in Logan, Utah and attended Utah State University, graduating with her bachelors degree in Family & Consumer Sciences and Math Education. Nine years later, she earned her Masters of Education in Learning and Technology. She loves using technology to solve problems and... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

AI, Bloom, and the Cognitive Gap in Educational Technology
Most technology integration frameworks—SAMR, TPACK, TIM—focus on tool function, not on how students think and learn. As a result, even well-intentioned ed tech use can bypass the most important question: What kind of thinking does this tool actually support?This session explores how AI and other digital tools intersect with cognition and learning. Participants will revisit Anderson and Krathwohl’s revised Bloom’s taxonomy as a cognitive framework to evaluate technology use, recognizing common pitfalls such as surface-level engagement, cognitive overload, and misplaced focus on tool novelty over mental processes. Together, we’ll analyze practical classroom examples and discuss how ed tech and AI tools can either enhance or inhibit student thinking, depending on how they’re designed into instruction.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Valarie O'Bryan

Valarie O'Bryan

Trainer, UEN - Utah Education Network
Val has a passion for educational technology and works for the UEN - Utah Education Network as a senior trainer.  At UEN, she provides training on ed tech tools and pedagogy to teachers all over the state of Utah.  She earned a doctorate in education in 2022 from Kansas State University... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

10 Minute Movement ideas for Language Arts k-6th grade
We will explore the language arts curriculum for K-6 and integrate movement possibilities for students. Each lesson will be less than 10 minutes long and easily adapted to a classroom setting. 

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Boyack

Ashley Boyack

Professional Development Director, University of Utah Tanner Dance
ASHLEY BOYACK received her BFA from the University of Utah and MAT from the University of Northern Colorado. She joined the Lawrence Arts Center in 2010, where she was Artistic Director of the Youth Dance Theater. While at LAC she created the modern dance curriculum and served as... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

Beyond Aspire Plus: Navigating the Transition in High School Assessment
The landscape of secondary assessment in Utah is entering a phase of significant change. Following the passage of SB 39 (2025), the state is transitioning from the fixed-form Utah Aspire Plus (UA+) to a course-based, computer-adaptive High School RISE model for English Language Arts, Mathematics, and Science. For rural LEAs—where teachers often operate as "departments of one"—this shift introduces unique technical hurdles alongside powerful new data opportunities.This session provides a comprehensive roadmap for these upcoming changes, specifically addressing how the move from predictive, grade-based scores to adaptive, course-based reporting directly affects instructional planning. Unlike the previous model, the High School RISE model ensures that data is a precise reflection of the specific course being taught, offering rural educators a clearer picture of student mastery within their specific disciplines.We will dive deep into three primary challenges unique to the rural experience:Overcoming Professional Isolation: We provide "pre-packaged" formative tools and USBE resources, such as the Performance Task Writing Template, to reduce the burden of designing assessments from scratch.Managing Instructional Breadth: We demonstrate how course-based data empowers teachers who lead multiple subjects to refine instruction with subject-specific accuracy.Mitigating Data Volatility: We explain how the Computer Adaptive (CAT) model provides more statistically reliable measures in small cohorts, ensuring that individual outliers do not skew school-wide results.Attendees will leave equipped with a clear understanding of USETS and UTIPs, ready to leverage these state resources to support local needs and foster resilient, data-informed rural classrooms.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Teresa McEntire

Teresa McEntire

Presenter, Utah State Board of Education
Teresa McEntire is the Elementary ELA Assessment Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. She has a master's degree in School Administration and a bachelor's in Elementary Education. She spent eleven years in the classroom in grades 3-6 and three years as an administrator... Read More →
avatar for Samantha Tinkey

Samantha Tinkey

Secondary Science Assessment Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Sam Tinkey is a Secondary Science Assessment Specialist with USBE. She is an experienced educator and researcher with 11 years in Utah’s public school system, including eight years as a secondary science teacher. Her classroom experience informs her work in improving how instructional... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

Simple and Easy Adaptations in the Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
General idea- we will be providing simple and easy ideas of how you can increase engagement through organization, reading, technology and going old school with paper and pencil (we will provide more details). 

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for April Stevenson

April Stevenson

President, Utah Middle Level Association
TBD 
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

Commemorate America250 Utah with History, Civics, and Heart
It's been 250 years since the pivotal events of 1776. The student activities, lesson plans, and resources from America250 Utah will help you connect to the our nation's founding and our state's rich history no matter what content you teach! This session will introduce key resources for elementary, middle, and high school, with a focus on events that connect to Utah in 1776, and the individuals, groups, ideas, and actions that shaped the Revolutionary Era.America250 Utah offers hands-on opportunities to explore history, create shared experiences, and engage with this milestone celebration. You can create powerful opportunities for your students and school community to reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look together toward the future. Presenters: Wendy Rex Atzet, PhD, and Rebecca Kirkman, Curriculum Specialist, Utah Historical Society

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Rebecca Kirkman

Rebecca Kirkman

Curriculum & District Coaching Specialist, Jordan School District & Utah Historical Society
Rebecca Kirkman is an accomplished District Instructional Coach for Jordan District, specializing in Instructional Coaching methodologies and teacher professional development. An award-winning former classroom teacher, she translates her successful practices into scalable professional... Read More →
avatar for Wendy Rex Atzet

Wendy Rex Atzet

Manager of K-12 Initiatives, Utah Historical Society
Wendy Rex Atzet earned her doctorate in U.S. History at the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she also served for four years as a coordinator for the state National History Day program. She was thrilled to return to National History Day in 2013 when she took the helm of this... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

The Power of Student Voice: Enhancing Literacy Through Oral Language
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Oral language is the foundation of successful literacy development. Participants in this session explore ways to support students' language growth by intentionally shifting classroom dynamics from teacher-centric instruction to high student engagement and talk. Attendees will discover, practice, and make plans to implement practical strategies and effective instructional methods that simultaneously increase student engagement, learning, and oracy. This session is designed to equip educators with actionable steps to enhance instruction and optimize student academic outcomes by supporting oral language development in their classrooms.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Harmony Langford

Harmony Langford

Early Literacy Coach of Coaches, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
With nearly 30 years’ experience in elementary and adult education settings, Harmony Langford loves to share her enthusiasm for literacy learning with children in the classroom and with the professionals who teach them. Harmony has dedicated her career to understanding, implementing... Read More →
avatar for Denice Maedgen

Denice Maedgen

K-3 Literacy Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Denice Maedgen is a K-3 Literacy Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education (USBE). She previously served as the USBE Coach of Coaches. Denice has a wealth of experience in education, including 9 years teaching grades 1-3, 3 years as a literacy coach, and 2 years as an elementary... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

Supporting Multilingual Learners in the ELA Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
This session is designed for elementary educators seeking practical, high-impact strategies to support multilingual learners within core ELA instruction. Participants will explore concrete instructional practices that increase access to grade-level content through intentional scaffolds, language supports, and strategic instructional design—without lowering expectations. Teachers will leave with actionable strategies they can immediately implement in whole-group and small-group settings to ensure multilingual learners can meaningfully engage in Tier 1 ELA instruction.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Throndsen

Jennifer Throndsen

Educational Consultant, Impactful Learning Designs
With over 20 years of experience in education, Jennifer Throndsen, PhD, has served in various roles across the classroom, school, district, and state levels. Her career includes positions as an elementary and middle school teacher, instructional coach, adjunct faculty, district office... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

New Teacher Retention: The Experiences Behind Career Decisions
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
🖼️ Format Alert: This is a relaxed, 2-hour "drop-in" poster session where you can browse at your leisure and chat informally with presenters.

Why do some new teachers remain committed to the profession while others quietly begin planning their exit within the first few years?

After 17 years in secondary leadership roles working closely with new teachers, I have seen firsthand how early professional experiences shape teachers’ confidence, sense of belonging, and long-term career decisions. When new teachers leave, schools experience a cascade of consequences that impact students, staff, school culture, and organizational stability. These challenges are often intensified in small and rural school settings.

Current Utah research often identifies broad categories associated with teacher attrition and retention, but my research focuses on the lived experiences that shape how new teachers navigate the profession. Understanding how teachers make meaning of their early experiences can help schools strengthen mentoring, induction, and leadership practices in ways that genuinely support new educators.

This poster session will invite conversations about practical approaches to supporting new teachers across a variety of Utah school settings. Stop by to engage in discussion, share effective practices, and collaborate around ideas that help teachers feel supported, connected, and successful in their work.
In addition, participants will have the opportunity to learn about my ongoing doctoral research regarding early-career teacher experiences and may volunteer for future interview participation.

Together, we can strengthen support systems that encourage new teachers to remain in and thrive in our schools.

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: iPad / iPhone; Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Pamela Pedersen

Pamela Pedersen

Doctoral Researcher, University of Utah, Education Leadership and Policy
I bring 27 years of experience in public education, beginning as a special education teacher and later serving as a grant writer and secondary administrator in the Salt Lake City School District.

For the past 17 years, I have led in a range of school settings, including small district charter schools, alternative high schools, and large comprehensive high schools. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities schools face across different... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

Patterns & Partnerships
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

Come engage with hands-on, phenomenon-based, 3D investigations and lesson plans that explore Utah’s mountain ecosystems. Covering all Sixth Grade life science SEEd standards 6.4.1-6.4.5, this bin includes customizable curriculum, over 100 specimens, drone footage, scientific tools, and more! The bins are reusable resources located at districts and service centers statewide and are available at no cost to Utah public schools (district and charter).

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
HP

Heather Paulsen

Teacher Resource Coordinator, Red Butte Garden & Arboretum
Heather has over 20 years of experience in both formal and informal education K-12. Most of that has been spent in informal science education working with statewide programs that include outreach, teacher resources, professional development and writing curriculum to support state... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

10:06am MDT

Community Access to Care for First Episode Psychosis
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:06am - 10:24am MDT
🕒 Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

Information on services we provide and how individuals and providers can refer people for those services. We are a community provider specializing in psychotic episodes in individuals aged 15-25. Our services are available at no cost, as we are grant funded. We have done a lot of outreach in Cedar City and Iron County, and would love the chance to increase our circle of support as well as inform about similar programs state wide. 

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Windows Laptop

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Windows Laptop
Speakers
BG

Brandon Gren

Clinician (LCSW), Southwest Behavioral Health Center
Brandon is a clinician in Cedar City working with a team specializing in treatment for First Episode Psychosis. He and his team are passionate about mental health AND community involvement. 
KF

Kylie Frandsen

Employment Specialist, Southwest Behavioral Health Center
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:06am - 10:24am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Scam Academy - Teaching Students to Outsmart the Algorithms
This session moves beyond basic digital safety checklists to teach students the crucial skill of healthy skepticism. We will introduce \"Scam Academy\" resources, which implement Civic Online Reasoning’s Three Questions. These questions help move students from being vulnerable to online manipulation to being digital detectives. Resources available for all grade levels (K-12). Let’s teach students to be smarter than the bots, influencers, and algorithms that exist to trick them!

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Dani Sloan

Dani Sloan

IT Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Dr. Dani Sloan helps educators lead, research, and teach digital citizenship. She's a UEN Product Manager and Instructor at the University of Utah. She is a former Elementary Teacher and current mom to a seventh grader. Dani is passionate about preparing students for a digital world... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Engagement 101
As Anita Archer says, "Learning is NOT a spectator sport!" If you are new to engagement or would like a refresher, this is the session for you.  We will spend the hour engaged in high-impact low prep strategies that you can use with your students starting your first week back in school.  Come prepared to think, engage, and learn in a collaborative environment. 

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Metcalf

Melissa Metcalf

PreK-12 Instructional Coach, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Melissa is a PreK-12 Instructional Coach for Northeastern Utah Educational Services (NUES).  She supports districts and charter schools in the northeastern region by providing ongoing professional learning opportunities, coaching cycles, and team support. Melissa has a Master of... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Engagement Strategies for the Middle Years 6th-8th Grade
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Being a teacher "in the middle" (6-8/9 grades) is a unique place to be. During this session we will look at how we are engaging with our students at this age. What are their unique developmental needs and how do we empower their learning while keeping our sanity. 

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for April Stevenson

April Stevenson

President, Utah Middle Level Association
TBD 
avatar for Melodie Garcia

Melodie Garcia

Jr. High Teacher (FCS), Utah Middle Level Association
TBD- The lead presenter may change as we are coordinating this with the Utah Middle Level Association Team
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Exploring Utah's Writing Benchmark Platform
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
With Utah's transition to a new formative writing platform, educators have access to a brand-new suite of tools designed to streamline the writing process and enhance student growth. We will move beyond the basics of administration and dive into the instructional tools available to teachers and students. Participants will get hands-on experience navigating the interface, utilizing the platform's evaluation tools to support students during the writing process, and accessing data reporting features to drive meaningful student-centered conversations. Learning Intentions: By the end of this session, participants will be able to:Navigate the New Interface: Locate essential tools and confidently navigate the teacher and student dashboards.Utilize Built-In Tools: Understand how to leverage the platform's built-in tools to provide timely, actionable support and feedback to students during the writing process.Analyze Actionable Data: Interpret the platform's reports to identify trends, guide instructional decisions, and facilitate collaborative student-centered discussions.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Speakers
avatar for Dallas Brooks

Dallas Brooks

Elementary ELA Assessment Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Dallas holds a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction as well as a K-12 Reading Endorsement. She has served as both an elementary teacher and a Title I Coordinator, bringing over a decade of experience in supporting student achievement. In her current role, Dallas specializes... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Intro to PCBL: Guiding Principles & Strategies for Improving Learning
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Join us for an insightful presentation on Personalized Competency-Based Learning (PCBL) to explore effective strategies for enhancing student learning. You'll learn to set clear learning goals, establish measurable objectives, and leverage intrinsic motivators to foster a personalized learning environment. The session will also cover goal-setting, progress monitoring, and curating resources, providing practical strategies you can immediately implement in your classroom.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Android Tablet / Smartphone; iPad / iPhone; Windows Tablet / Smartphone; Chromebook

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Kayla Towner

Kayla Towner

Senior Product Trainer, UEN - Utah Education Network
Kayla Towner is a Senior Product Trainer at the Utah Education Network (UEN) and, first and foremost, a passionate educator. She loves spending time with her family—playing soccer ⚽️, reading books 📚, hiking 🥾, and adventuring across Utah 🏔️. Kayla is dedicated to... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

The Science of Learning in Utah Math Classrooms
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
 What ULEAD found in effective Utah math classroomsSound research practicesCommon MythsHow students learn math: core science-of-learning principlesHigh impact routinesLethal mutationsApplication: practiceCommit to one high-leverage changeThe Science of Learning in Utah Math Classrooms.docx

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Jennie Earl

Jennie Earl

State Board Member, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Jennie's commitment to education is showcased by her 7 ½ years of service on the State Board of Education two of those years were spent serving in a vice chair position. Throughout her tenure, she has been an integral part of numerous committees and initiatives. Her roles... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:52am MDT

Igniting STEAM
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:52am - 12:10pm MDT
🕒 Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

Check out elementary leveled websites that provide project-based learning ideas that engage students to connect Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. Teachers are often overwhelmed by the numerous responsibilities they face these days. These websites provide access to platforms and resources, such as SORA, MissionIO, USBE, PhET, PBS, and other resources. Connecting these resources with the curriculum to ignite STEAM and cross-curricular activities.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
avatar for Kathleen Riebe

Kathleen Riebe

Digital Teaching and Learning Coach, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Kathleen Riebe is a Digital Teaching and Learning coach with NUES, Northeastern Utah Education Service Center. Prior to NUES, Kathleen worked as an Educational Technology Specialist with Granite School. She received her Master's from USU and is attending SUU. In her free time, she... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:52am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

1:30pm MDT

From Data to Insights: Monitoring Student Achievement Over Time via Utah RISE
Transforming raw assessment data into actionable instructional strategies can often feel like a daunting task. However, the key to unlocking continuous student growth lies in understanding the long-term trends hidden within these numbers. This session is designed to empower educators with the practical skills needed to navigate and maximize the Utah RISE Reporting platform (utahrise.org).During this presentation, we will explore critical features of the RISE Reporting platform. First, we will dive deep into the strengths and weaknesses view. This tool allows teaching teams to dissect specific reporting categories, providing the targeted insights necessary to critically evaluate and refine the scope and sequence of classroom instruction.Second, participants will learn how to effectively utilize the longitudinal view. By tracking a specific cohort’s scores across multiple academic years, educators can identify overarching growth patterns and evaluate the long-term impact of their educational strategies.Join us to bridge the gap between compliance-driven testing and meaningful pedagogical improvement. You will leave equipped with the analytical tools to monitor achievement effectively and make data-driven decisions that foster lasting academic success.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Brooke Anderson

Brooke Anderson

Data Scientist, Jordan School District
Brooke Anderson is a dedicated educational leader and Data Scientist at the Jordan School District. With over a decade of specialized experience in the Assessment and Accountability sector, she is committed to leveraging data to enhance educational outcomes and empower teachers. Her... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

1:30pm MDT

From Prompt to Page: Building Better Canvas Content with AI
From Prompt to Page: Building Better Canvas Content with AI

This 1-Hour BYOD Workshop session demonstrates how AI can be used to quickly generate well-designed Canvas pages, assignments, and instructional materials that are both aesthetically engaging and pedagogically sound through coding. Rather than spending hours formatting content, aligning elements, and troubleshooting layout issues, participants will see how simple prompts can produce clean, organized, and accessible Canvas-ready code in minutes. The focus is on practical, time-saving strategies that faculty can immediately implement in their own courses.

During the session, I will model how AI can help structure content with clear headings, visual organization, and thoughtful instructional flow that supports student learning. Examples will include building assignment pages, instructional modules, and activity directions that improve clarity, reduce cognitive load, and enhance student engagement. I will also demonstrate how AI can assist with creating ADA-conscious formatting, including readable layouts, consistent hierarchy, and accessible design choices.

In addition to saving time, this approach helps instructors focus more on pedagogy and less on technical formatting. Participants will see how AI can support alignment between objectives, instructions, and learning activities while also producing polished, professional-looking pages. The goal is to provide a realistic workflow that instructors can replicate immediately, whether they are new to Canvas design or looking to streamline existing course development.

Attendees will leave with concrete examples, prompt ideas, and a practical process for moving from concept to Canvas page quickly and effectively.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Device that can access Canvas and the Internet

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, Android Tablet / Smartphone, iPad / iPhone, Windows Tablet / Smartphone, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Crystal Stott

Crystal Stott

Professor of Education, Snow College
Dr. Crystal Stott is an Assistant Professor of Education and Family Studies at Snow College and an Adjunct Faculty member and Clinical Field Supervisor for Utah Valley University. With a background spanning early childhood through higher education, she brings nearly two decades of... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

1:30pm MDT

Today's Middle School Student
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Today's middle school student is not the same as the middle school student of 15, 10 or even 5 years ago. The social, emotional and intellectual development of our young teens is an aspect we need to understand so that we can serve them better in our classrooms. 

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for April Stevenson

April Stevenson

President, Utah Middle Level Association
TBD 
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

1:30pm MDT

Writing Formative Assessment Clusters
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
💻 Format Alert: This is an extended, 2-hour hands-on session—please bring your own laptop or tablet to fully participate!

Have you seen or heard that the RISE assessments have clusters?  We will learn what assessment “clusters” are, how to write them, and then write them for use in our classrooms as part of our formative assessment process.  Participants will be able to focus on ELA, Mathematics, or Science with support from the USBE Assessment Specialists.The RISE assessments in grades 3-10 include clusters, so utilizing this assessment format in classrooms can help prepare students for the RISE assessments.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Jared Wright

Jared Wright

Elementary Math and Science Assessment Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
I have been in Education for 20+ years.  Approximately half of that time was as an elementary school teacher of students in grades 2, 3, and 4.  The other half has been in multiple roles at USBE in the Assessment and Accountability section.
avatar for Dallas Brooks

Dallas Brooks

Elementary ELA Assessment Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Dallas holds a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction as well as a K-12 Reading Endorsement. She has served as both an elementary teacher and a Title I Coordinator, bringing over a decade of experience in supporting student achievement. In her current role, Dallas specializes... Read More →
avatar for Samantha Tinkey

Samantha Tinkey

Secondary Science Assessment Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Sam Tinkey is a Secondary Science Assessment Specialist with USBE. She is an experienced educator and researcher with 11 years in Utah’s public school system, including eight years as a secondary science teacher. Her classroom experience informs her work in improving how instructional... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

1:30pm MDT

Art Tools and Teacher Tricks
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

Looking to bring more creativity into your classroom without the mess or stress? In this hands-on workshop, elementary classroom teachers will learn practical tips and tricks for confidently using and managing basic art supplies. From watercolors to oil pastels colored pencils and more, we’ll explore what’s worth buying, what to skip, and how to get the most out of the supplies you already have. How can you use and manage these supplies more effectively?Participants will learn art hacks for the classroom that will minimize chaos and maximize instructional time. We’ll also cover easy-to-teach techniques that help students use supplies correctly and responsibly, saving money and reducing waste. Whether you’re art-loving or art-avoidant, you’ll leave with ready-to-use strategies that make creative activities smoother, more efficient, more successful and more engaging.Perfect for any teachers who want big creative impact with basic supplies!

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Liz Brown

Liz Brown

BTS Arts Integration Coach, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Liz Brown is a BTS Art Integration Coach for NUES. She was the 2025 Utah Art Educator of the Year for the National Art Education Association and the 2024 Art Educator of the Year for the Utah Art Education Association. She is passionate about arts integration and children getting... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 306 - General Classroom Building, Room 306 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

1:30pm MDT

Evidence-Based Instruction Available to Your Area from The UURC
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

In this 2 hour interactive presentation, UURC staff will demonstrate brief examples of the high quality, evidence-based, effective intervention services that can be provided to students at home or in school in rural areas across the state of Utah, providing a breakdown and analysis of the instruction provided at varying developmental reading levels with case studies to show data-based decision making. In this demonstration, participants will see scaffolded reading support in connected text across varied text complexities, as well as with words in isolation, connected with writing, and repeated reading procedures crafted to increase student fluency outcomes.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Breyanna Evans

Breyanna Evans

Reading Intervention Specialist, University of Utah Reading Clinic
Breyanna Evans received her B.S. in creative writing from Utah Valley University. Upon graduating, Breyanna worked as a reading intervention aide at Pinnacle Canyon Academy while she obtained her teaching license. She taught secondary English for three years, first for Pinnacle Canyon... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

2:50pm MDT

Scaffolding Tier 1 Phonics Instruction
Effective Tier 1 phonics instruction is critical for all learners, yet many students require targeted scaffolds to fully access grade-level content. This session will highlight evidence-aligned scaffolding strategies that teachers can embed within whole-group and small-group instruction to support student success during Tier 1 phonics. Participants will explore concrete instructional moves that preserve grade-level rigor while increasing access for developing readers. By the end of the session, educators will have a toolkit of practical strategies they can immediately apply to improve student engagement and outcomes in phonics instruction.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Throndsen

Jennifer Throndsen

Educational Consultant, Impactful Learning Designs
With over 20 years of experience in education, Jennifer Throndsen, PhD, has served in various roles across the classroom, school, district, and state levels. Her career includes positions as an elementary and middle school teacher, instructional coach, adjunct faculty, district office... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

2:50pm MDT

Middle Level Educators Unite
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Utah Middle Level Association will be facilitating a round robin/speed dating (but no actual dates) type of brainstorming session. Some of the best ideas of how to solve a problem are being used by someone else who is working in a middle/junior high school. You have a solution to someone else's challenge. Middle School Educators let's unite! 

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for April Stevenson

April Stevenson

President, Utah Middle Level Association
TBD 
avatar for Kristy Stevens

Kristy Stevens

Executive Director, Utah Middle Level Association
TBD
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

2:50pm MDT

3D Science lessons- Gravity and Inertia
The presentation is on 3 dimensional science lessons.In Why the Moon Doesn’t Yeet into Space, students explore how gravity and inertia work together to keep the Moon in orbit around Earth. Using the Earth–Moon system as an anchor phenomenon, students investigate the driving question: What keeps the Moon from falling into Earth or flying off into space?Students begin by observing a simulation of the Moon orbiting Earth and sharing initial ideas. They then build background knowledge by reading about gravity and inertia and connecting these concepts to familiar experiences, such as a passenger continuing to move forward when a car suddenly stops. Through discussion and guided questioning, students deepen their understanding of inertia as forward motion and gravity as an attractive force.To model orbital motion, students use marbles and paper plates with gaps to represent gravity and inertia. As marbles roll around the plate and then exit through the opening, students observe how the marble continues in a straight line when the “gravitational pull” is removed. By testing marbles of different masses, students evaluate how well the model represents real orbital motion and identify its limitations.Students synthesize their learning by drawing and explaining a model that shows how gravity and inertia interact to keep the Moon in orbit. The lesson emphasizes developing and using models, identifying system interactions, and explaining unobservable mechanisms, aligning with Utah SEEd Standard 6.1.2 and NGSS expectations.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
KE

Kristine Erickson

Beaver School District
avatar for Westen Miller

Westen Miller

Teacher, BYU-3Drst
My name is Westen Miller. I am a 6th grade Math and Science teacher. I work for North Sanpete School District at Fairview Elementary. I am a teacher participant in the BYU 3D-rst program. 
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
 
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2026 Utah Rural Schools Conference
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