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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. 
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Wednesday, July 15
 

11:00am MDT

Conference Credit
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 4:00pm MDT
Online Form
Information will be posted before the start of the conference. SUU and USBE licenes hours will be available to conference attendees.
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 4:00pm MDT
Online Form 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Conference Info

11:00am MDT

Conference Registration and Badge Pick-Up
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 4:00pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 4:00pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Conference Info

11:00am MDT

Conference WiFi Informatiion and Tech Support
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 4:00pm MDT
ED Level 2 Foyer, East - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Level 2 Foyer
WiFi: SUU Conference, Password: TBD

Tech Support for presenters can be found at this phone number - (435) XXX-XXXX or by swinging by the Level 2 Lobby of the Education Building.
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 4:00pm MDT
ED Level 2 Foyer, East - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Level 2 Foyer 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Tech Support

1:30pm MDT

Creating a Connected Classroom: Strategies to decrease behaviors and increase academics.
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
This presentation will provide attendees with the brain science behind how brains develop and why students have specific behaviors.  The brain science will then lead to practical, real life application on how to actually use the science to increase academic output and decrease negative behaviors.  Attendees will leave the session with skills they can apply the next day in the classroom.   

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 Amie Huggins

Amie Huggins

TBRI Coach for Schools, Raise the Future
Amie Huggins is a 30 year classroom teacher.  She is also a TBRI Practitioner and the co-author of the book, Creating a Connected Classroom.  She works for a non-profit called Raise the Future and through them has developed the curriculum, Tools for Transformation.  This curriculum... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Why PD Sucks (and Why Personalization is the Cure)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
Stop me if you’ve been here: it’s 3:30 PM, the fluorescent lights are humming, and you’re fighting the urge to check your watch (or the back of your eyelids) during another one-size-fits-all staff meeting. If that sounds familiar, it’s time to flip the script on Professional Development. This session offers a fast-paced "peek" into how we can kill the "yawn factor" by moving away from "sit-and-get" models and toward a personalized, choose-your-own-adventure experience for your entire school. You will go beyond just hearing about personalization—you’ll actually experience a unique learning path firsthand. By brainstorming with peers and exploring new strategies, you’ll walk away with a toolkit to make educator learning purposeful, relevant, and—dare we say—actually fun.

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

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 →
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 →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:30pm MDT

Refreshment Break
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 2:50pm MDT
Location TBD
TBD
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 2:50pm MDT
Location TBD 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Break

2:50pm MDT

From Generic to Gem: Building Your First Gemini Gems
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202
Tired of typing the same prompts over and over? It’s time to meet Gems — your customizable chatbots designed to handle whatever task for you. Whether you need a persistent lesson planner, a student feedback coach, or a schedule sorter. Gems allow you to package your best instructions into a single, reusable tool.We’ll cover the breakdown of a Gemini Gem, use cases for educators, tips and tricks and have time to live build! In this hands-on session, we will start with the basics to then begin building. By the end of the hour, you’ll have a custom AI assistant ready to go to work for you!  Note: Participants will need access to Gemini Gems through their Google account. Skills may be transferable to over AI platforms with custom chatbots (SchoolAI, MagicSchool, etc.) 

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; Other (If not listed above, please indicate what device(s) would benefit attendees in your session description)

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 →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Data Privacy Basics Live!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level)
Last year, the Student Data Privacy team at the Utah State Board of Education introduced an asynchronous Canvas course that many districts and charters have used to meet requirements for data privacy training. This session will be a special live edition of that training! We'll walk through all the most critical info you need to know about Data Privacy Basics; including Data Privacy Rights, Sharing Data, and Protecting Data. Pro-tip: Check with your district or charter ahead of time to see if this course will be a requirement of your back to school training. If so, you can leave this session with a certificate of completion so you can skip that step in the fall! If you would like to get a certificate of completion, please bring a device to participate.

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 Nicole Sanchez

Nicole Sanchez

Student Data Privacy Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Nicole Sanchez is a former junior high teacher and instructional coach, and is now a Student Data Privacy Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. Nicole especially loves to work with districts and charter schools across the state to help them improve their privacy practices... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 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
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Group Contingencies and the Good Behavior Game for Classroom Management
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level)
Teachers are juggling more behavior needs than ever while still trying to keep students engaged and learning. This session will introduce group contingencies—Independent, Dependent, and Interdependent—as simple, realistic ways to support behavior without adding a lot to your plate. We’ll also look closely at the Good Behavior Game as a classroom-tested example that has been shown to reduce disruptive behavior and boost on-task time.You’ll see real classroom examples, watch short video clips, and have dedicated time to sketch out how these ideas could work with your own students. You’ll leave with a one-page cheat sheet on the three types of group contingencies, a planning template, printable Good Behavior Game materials, and links to free online resources. By the end of the session, you’ll have a clear, ready-to-try plan you can start using as soon as the following week.

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
RR

Rhea Rayomand Palkhiwala

Doctoral Student, USU - Utah State University
Rhea Rayomand Palkhiwala, MSE, LBA (UT), is a doctoral student in Disability Disciplines with an emphasis in Applied Behavior Analysis at Utah State University. She works as a school-based behavior consultant, supporting rural school teams with conducting function-based assessments... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Audrey N. Hoffmann

Dr. Audrey N. Hoffmann

Assistant Professor - Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling, USU - Utah State University
Dr. Audrey N. Hoffmann is an assistant professor in the Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counseling at Utah State University. Dr. Hoffmann provides services to individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities and/or challenging behavior. She specializes... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Increasing Student Attendance
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203
This session will dive into attendance best practices around Utah, current school attendance legislation, attendance supports that the Utah State Board of Education offers to schools and LEAs, and will teach about the Statewide Attendance Campaign, "Every Day Counts". 

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
GR

Garrett Russell

Utah State Board of Education
avatar for Megan Menlove

Megan Menlove

Attendance Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Megan Menlove is an attendance support specialist for the Utah State Board of Education.  She loves being an Attendance Ambassadors and promoting positive attendance throughout Utah.  Prior to coming to USBE she was an assistant principal for thirteen years in Alpine School District... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

What Worked When It Mattered? Pandemic Recovery Success in Utah
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
When faced with new challenges and uncertainty following pandemic-related disruptions, some Utah schools beat the odds in their student academic recovery. What school-level factors made this possible? In this interactive session, the Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC) will share findings from a statewide mixed-methods study of eight schools that demonstrated strong post-pandemic recovery. Conducted in partnership with USBE and ULEAD, the study examined the school-level factors that leaders and educators identified as most important to academic recovery in their schools. The findings point to reinvesting in the fundamentals rather than adopting pandemic-specific interventions: adaptive school leadership, high-quality PLCs, data-informed instruction, and other aligned support systems coherently working together. Adaptive leadership emerged as a key driver in these contexts, as leadership promoted the central coherence needed for these schools to improve outcomes through the strategic, sustained use of the people, structures, and practices already available to them. Session OutcomesParticipants will:Learn about key findings from the UEPC Pandemic Recovery study.Explore school portraits of success that make the study’s findings more concrete within school contexts.Reflect on their own school's strengths and opportunities for growth in relation to the study's findings.Develop action plans for high-leverage next steps, key partners, and needed supports.Why This MattersThis session translates research into actionable insights for schools, offering rural educators and leaders a research-informed starting point for strengthening the systems and practices that support student outcomes. All participants will leave with printed school portraits and a conversation guide to support continued reflection.

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 Andrea Rorrer

Andrea Rorrer

Director, UEPC - Utah Education Policy Center
Dr. Andrea K. Rorrer  is the Director of the UEPC and a Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy. Andrea, who has 35 years of experience in education, received her master’s degree at the University of Virginia and her Ph.D. from the University of Texas... Read More →
avatar for Kody Colvin

Kody Colvin

Lead School & District Improvement Specialist, Utah Education Policy Center
Kody Colvin is a Lead School and District Improvement Specialist with the Utah Education Policy Center, where he partners with schools and systems to strengthen instructional leadership, professional learning, and continuous improvement efforts. With over 15 years of experience in... Read More →
avatar for Amy Reynolds

Amy Reynolds

Research and Evaluation Associate, Utah Education Policy Center
Amy L. Reynolds, Ph.D., is a Research Associate at the Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC), where she leads research and evaluation projects in partnership with state agencies and educational organizations within and beyond Utah. Her recent work includes a statewide governance study... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

An Educational Expedition: Rediscovering Educator Joy
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
This session will embark on a journey to rediscover the joy of teaching. Joy isn’t a by-product of teaching, it's a prerequisite. The survival guides will lead this expedition through the rugged landscape of rural education, where teachers may be the driver, the mechanic, and the GPS for every student. Has the tank run dry? Educator joy isn’t a luxury but an essential quality for a thriving classroom. Our adventure will include a roadmap to joy with three stops; Stop 1 involves the GPS where we share common practices that lead to getting lost along the way and replacing them with practices that empower students by putting them in the driver’s seat and getting where we really want to go; Stop 2 will cover the importance of taking the scenic route! Rather than just getting to the destination, we want to relish in the beauty and get some red sand in our shoes through experiential learning and shifting the burden of learning while becoming a highly-effective resource and guide; Stop 3 brings us to the ever-important strategies to avoid over-heating (aka teacher burn-out)! The check engine light has been flashing for too long and needed routine maintenance and a check-up to replace fluids (NOT Diet Coke) will protect the spark and keep us running smoothly! Join us for a highly collaborative, fun, and practical road trip through the heart of what it means to teach on a full tank. Let’s work together to reclaim the joy of our profession!

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 Laureen Graves

Laureen Graves

Assistant Professor and Field Services Director, SUU - Southern Utah University
Laureen Graves is a passionate educator, married to Christopher Graves, with four children and six grandchildren who bring immense joy to their lives. The role of being GG is a most cherished role! As a committed advocate for the teaching profession, Laureen hopes to prepare students... Read More →
avatar for Heather Kennedy

Heather Kennedy

Assistant Professor of Teacher Education, SUU - Southern Utah University
Dr. Heather Kennedy is an Assistant Professor of Teacher Education at Southern Utah University, where she teaches classes in the areas of special education, math education, school leadership, and secondary education instructional strategies. Dr. Kennedy has almost 20 years of experience... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

The Teacher Brain Budget Hack
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
What if the same classroom management skills you use every day could also help you build financial stability?

In this session, veteran teacher and instructional coach Mary Saylor will share how she used classroom management systems to get out of debt and save six months of income — all on a teacher’s salary. Participants will learn the ABC Budgeting System:

A — Awareness. Build honest awareness around spending habits, stress spending, and emotional money triggers.
B — Bridge. Use simple “instructional scaffolding” strategies to bridge the gap between limiting beliefs and healthier financial habits.
C — Commit. Create one small, realistic budgeting habit that’s easy to maintain and powerful enough to build momentum over time. 

This won’t feel like a boring finance lecture. It’s practical, encouraging, and designed specifically for busy teachers who want less stress and more  financial breathing room. You’ll leave with a simple starting point and hopefully the feeling of, “Okay… maybe I actually can do this.”

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

Mary Saylor

Instructional Coach, Cedar Middle School
Mary Saylor is a 15-year secondary English Language Arts educator turned Instructional Coach who is passionate about helping teachers rediscover joy, clarity, and confidence in their classrooms. Throughout her career in grades 6–12, she has worked in diverse secondary settings... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 
Thursday, July 16
 

8:00am MDT

Conference Registration and Badge Pick-Up
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Conference Info

8:00am MDT

Conference WiFi Informatiion and Tech Support
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
ED Level 2 Foyer, East - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Level 2 Foyer
WiFi: SUU Conference, Password: TBD

Tech Support for presenters can be found at this phone number - (435) XXX-XXXX or by swinging by the Level 2 Lobby of the Education Building.
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
ED Level 2 Foyer, East - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Level 2 Foyer 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Tech Support

9:45am MDT

Commemorate America250 Utah with History, Civics, and Heart
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level)
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
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

10:45am MDT

Networking and Refreshment Break
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:45am - 11:10am MDT
Location TBD
TBD
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:45am - 11:10am MDT
Location TBD 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Break

11:10am MDT

Task management using Trello
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 11:28am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
🕒 Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

Trello uses kanban board style task management to help quickly visualize tasks and organize steps in a process. I will demonstrate the basics of the kanban approach and how I specifically use Trello to manage my technology-related tasks for our district. If time permits, I will also show some automation tools that help make the product work even better to reduce the time I spend managing my time. 

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 Christijan Draper

Christijan Draper

Technology Director, Daggett School District
Christijan Draper graduated from high school in the Alaskan Bush as a class of one—valedictorian by default. Dr. Draper has a PhD in instructional psychology and technology, a MS in youth and family recreation, and he studied communications as an undergrad. He spent five years as... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 11:28am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

AI on the Ground: Research Meets Rural Realities
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how educators plan, teach, and learn - but what does that look like in practice, especially in rural contexts? In this interactive workshop, the Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC) will facilitate a collaborative learning experience where research insights and educator expertise come together to help make sense of AI's rapidly evolving role in education and in their schools and classrooms. Drawing on recent UEPC research, participants will explore the opportunities, functions, and guardrails for responsible human-AI collaboration, including how AI can serve as a feedback partner, instructional support tool, and collaborative coach, alongside key considerations for ethics, transparency, and teacher agency. The UEPC will share findings from ongoing survey research with Utah educators about their AI use, including which tools they're using, how it's changing their practice, and what concerns and questions remain. These insights set the stage for the session's central activity: a structured, collaborative exchange in which participants share their AI experiences, strategies, cautions, and questions with peers across diverse rural school contexts. Participants will leave with:Key research insights on AI's roles in professional learning and instructionA snapshot of where Utah educators currently stand with AI integrationPractical strategies and ideas from fellow educators to support responsible human-AI collaboration Whether you're an AI enthusiast, skeptical adopter, or hopeful bystander, this session is designed to meet you where you are. Bring your experiences, your questions, and your willingness to learn alongside your peers about how AI is shaping our educational landscapes.

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 Kody Colvin

Kody Colvin

Lead School & District Improvement Specialist, Utah Education Policy Center
Kody Colvin is a Lead School and District Improvement Specialist with the Utah Education Policy Center, where he partners with schools and systems to strengthen instructional leadership, professional learning, and continuous improvement efforts. With over 15 years of experience in... Read More →
avatar for Amy Reynolds

Amy Reynolds

Research and Evaluation Associate, Utah Education Policy Center
Amy L. Reynolds, Ph.D., is a Research Associate at the Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC), where she leads research and evaluation projects in partnership with state agencies and educational organizations within and beyond Utah. Her recent work includes a statewide governance study... Read More →
avatar for Julianne Zemaitis

Julianne Zemaitis

Research and Evaluation Associate, Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC)
Julianne Zemaitis, Ph.D., is a Research and Evaluation Associate with the Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC). She partners with educators, administrators, and other stakeholders to design and conduct research and evaluation projects that support continuous improvement in educational... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Scam Academy - Teaching Students to Outsmart the Algorithms
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
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
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:31am MDT

Unmuting Your Classroom: Supporting Multilingual Learners
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:31am - 11:49am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
🕒 Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

Empower your multilingual learners! In this session, you'll master essential AI tools for communication. We'll cover document translation using Canva, instant live captions with Google Meet and Class Tools, and creating scaffolded activities that align with language goals using the SchoolAI Chrome Extension and Gemini. Additionally, we'll detail a replicable welcome packet complete with community resources for your newcomers. Leave with immediately applicable strategies to use with your multilingual tomorrow.

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 Kelli Cannon

Kelli Cannon

Digital Learning Specialist, Jordan School District
Kelli Cannon has been an educator for 12 years, teaching upper elementary students prior to her current role as a Digital Learning Specialist. Kelli holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, as well as endorsements in STEM, Teaching English as a Second Language and Instructional... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:31am - 11:49am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Digital Resilience: Strategies for Managing Social Media and Student Focus in Grades 6–12
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
Secondary students are constantly navigating a digital world that was designed to capture their attention. This session provides 6–12 educators with practical strategies to help students manage this reality. Instead of just talking about safety, we will focus on building Digital Resilience.We will explore how to teach students to "look under the hood" of their social media feeds, recognize how algorithms influence their worldview, and use mental health check-ins to combat digital fatigue. You will leave with a toolkit of routines that integrate easily into any subject area, ensuring your students develop the self-regulation skills they need for the modern workforce.

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 Davina Sauthoff

Davina Sauthoff

K12 Library Media Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Davina Sauthoff, EdD. is the Library Media Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. She loves reading, 📚 spending time with family 💟 which includes two pups. She is passionate about leveraging the expertise of school  🏫 librarians  and the vital role the school... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Building Better People Through Lessons from History, Lessons from the Holocaust
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
The Holocaust Learning Experience is a free resource offered to any school district, charter school, private school or home school network.During this session participants will experience one of our over 40 lessons from the Holocaust and discover how these lessons are imperative to teaching resiliency and empathy. Data will be shared, teachers will hear about the thousands of survey outcomes we have received and how the program is impacting students and teachers, how they are learning and understanding the importance of standing up for others. Character building is at the heart of our program, we are transforming generations to understand the importance of mitigating the language of hate, bigotry, bias and antisemitism, through the lens of lessons from the Holocaust.

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: None
Speakers
avatar for Leigh Routman

Leigh Routman

Executive Director, Holocaust Learning Experience
Executive Director Holocaust Learning Experience
Co-founder of the Holocaust Learning Experience.
Master’s degree in social work, Barry University, Miami FL
Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Psychology, University of FL, Gainesville, FL
Academy of Certified Social Workers awarde... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

The Reclaimed Classroom: Leading AI for Teaching and Learning
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202
💻 Format Alert: This is an extended, 2-hour hands-on session—please bring your own laptop or tablet to fully participate!

AI is already shaping classrooms and schools—but how can teachers and leaders use it to meaningfully improve teaching, learning, and decision-making?In this interactive session, participants will explore lessons from Utah’s AI & School Leadership Collaborative, a statewide effort focused on practical, ethical, and human-centered uses of AI in schools. We will build a shared foundation by unpacking key concepts such as traditional vs. generative AI, large language models (LLMs), bias, hallucinations, and responsible data use, including considerations around PII and “walled garden” tools.Through educator case studies and student-facing scenarios, participants will examine real-world applications of AI for instructional planning, student engagement, and leadership decision-making. Using a simple AI fluency framework (e.g., the 4Ds), participants will explore how to move from awareness to intentional implementation. The session emphasizes ethical use, human judgment, and the role of educators in AI-supported environments.By the end of this session, participants will be able to:Build foundational AI understanding, including key concepts and risksAnalyze AI use cases to identify meaningful instructional and leadership applicationsApply an AI fluency framework to guide responsible implementationIdentify ethical and data privacy considerations in school contextsDevelop one concrete next step for AI use in their setting

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Windows Tablet / Smartphone; 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 →
avatar for Kody Colvin

Kody Colvin

Lead School & District Improvement Specialist, Utah Education Policy Center
Kody Colvin is a Lead School and District Improvement Specialist with the Utah Education Policy Center, where he partners with schools and systems to strengthen instructional leadership, professional learning, and continuous improvement efforts. With over 15 years of experience in... Read More →
avatar for Matt Winters

Matt Winters

AI Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Matthew Winters is the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Educational Specialist for USBE, the Utah State Board of Education. He was formerly a product manager and statewide trainer for Utah Education Network, specializing in Google Workspaces for Edu. He was also the Utah Coalition for... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:30pm MDT

Refreshment Break
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:30pm - 2:50pm MDT
Location TBD
TBD
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:30pm - 2:50pm MDT
Location TBD 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Break

2:50pm MDT

Becoming Digitally Deliberate
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
Talmage works with teachers and staff to tackle screen time head on.Here is what we cover:The digital dangers affecting students and educators todayAdvice from the "digital doctor" on managing your own screen timeWhat is really happening to our students and why it mattersPractical tips to help kids build healthier habits with technologyStaff will walk away with:A better understanding of their own relationship with screensReal insight into what students are struggling with dailySimple, actionable strategies to help kids manage screen time in and out of the classroom

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 Talmage Erickson

Talmage Erickson

CEO, The Screen Guys
Talmage Erickson, AKA "The Screen Guy" is a student assembly speaker specializing in digital wellness, screen time, and social media. As the author of "The 10 laws of Screen Management," Talmage travels to schools to help parents, educators, and students better their relationship... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Navigating Sensitive Materials and Collection Development: Updated Strategies for School, Library, and Classrooms
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
This session provides a practical, strategy-based guide for educators to navigate the 2026 updates to Utah’s sensitive materials laws. We will focus on the professional standards used to develop high-quality classroom and library collections that align with both state law and Utah Core Standards.Participants will learn how to apply objective selection rubrics to ensure new materials are age-appropriate and educationally relevant. We will explore how to stay current with the USBE statewide tracking system and how to handle the local review process with transparency and professional clarity. Whether you manage a school library or a personal classroom collection, you will leave with the tools to build a compliant, high-quality 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: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Davina Sauthoff

Davina Sauthoff

K12 Library Media Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Davina Sauthoff, EdD. is the Library Media Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. She loves reading, 📚 spending time with family 💟 which includes two pups. She is passionate about leveraging the expertise of school  🏫 librarians  and the vital role the school... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Demystifying Mastery: The What, the Why and the How of Proficiency Scale Construction
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level)
In a learner-centered classroom, students shouldn't have to guess what success looks like or how to get there; proficiency scales provide the essential GPS for their educational journey. This session will explore the what, why, and how of building scales that transform Utah Core standards into transparent, actionable roadmaps for every learner. We’ll define proficiency scales as a progressive continuum that breaks down complex skills into observable milestones, moving far beyond the static nature of traditional rubrics. By shifting from a "mystery grading" system that combines behaviors and understanding into one opaque measure, we can foster true learner agency, empowering students to identify exactly what they need to know and how to get there. Participants will explore a practical design process: first, exploring standards to identify essential skills; second, crafting clear descriptors for varying levels of mastery from emerging to extending; and third, integrating student voice to ensure the language is accessible and meaningful. By the end of this session, you will be equipped with the tools and concrete examples needed to replace traditional grade books with a system that turns every student into a self-directed, assessment capable learner.

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
NA

Nathan Auck

Founder and Principal Consultant, Catalyst for Coherence
Nathan Auck has over two decades of educational experience, spanning roles in alternative school teaching and leadership to STEM Coordinator and Personalized Competency Based Learning Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. A Presidential Award winner and Albert Einstein... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

4:00pm MDT

Evening Activites
Thursday July 16, 2026 4:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Looking for something unique and fun to do Thursday evening after the conference? Need some family-friendly activities during the day while you are learning and networking? Cedar City has you covered! Cedar City is the home of the Tony Award winning Utah Shakespearean Festival, and there are many Shakespeare and Renaissance-related activities for your enjoyment. 

Utah Shakespearean Festival - bard.org
  • Something Rotten! - 8:00 pm at the Randall L. Jones Theatre (map). Tickets $41 - $96 
  • Troilus and Cressida - 8:00 pm at the Engelstad Shakespeare Theatre (map). Tickets $20 - $94 
  • Looking for shows for other nights? Learn about your options here - Just click on the date and see what's playing! 
  • The Greenshow - 7:10 pm on SUU's Upper Quad near the old Shakespeare Theatre. FREE!
    • Immerse yourself in singing, dancing, storytelling, and music while our Greenshow company brings you 30 minutes of free, family-friendly, outdoor entertainment on the green each evening from Monday through Saturday. You may even get a chance to join in the fun yourself!

Utah Midsummer Renaissance Faire - umrf.net
  • July 15th–18th, 2026, 11:00 am - 9:00 pm - FREE admission at the Cedar City Main Street Park (map)
    • Step back in time and experience the magic of the Renaissance Era! Gather your friends and family for four days filled with adventure, entertainment, shopping, food, costumes, music, games, and unforgettable fun.
    • Whether you come dressed as royalty, pirates, fairies, knights, or peasants — everyone is welcome to join the celebration and play the part!
      • ✨ Wander the village
      • ✨ Enjoy live entertainment
      • ✨ Shop unique artisan vendors
      • ✨ Feast on delicious food
      • ✨ Create memories for the whole family
    • Prepare for a summer adventure unlike any other at the Utah Midsummer Renaissance Faire!

Thursday July 16, 2026 4:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
  Conference Info
 
Friday, July 17
 

8:00am MDT

Conference Credit
Friday July 17, 2026 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Online Form
Information will be posted before the start of the conference. SUU and USBE licenes hours will be available to conference attendees.
Friday July 17, 2026 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Online Form 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Conference Info

8:00am MDT

Conference WiFi Informatiion and Tech Support
Friday July 17, 2026 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
ED Level 2 Foyer, East - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Level 2 Foyer
WiFi: SUU Conference, Password: TBD

Tech Support for presenters can be found at this phone number - (435) XXX-XXXX or by swinging by the Level 2 Lobby of the Education Building.
Friday July 17, 2026 8:00am - 12:00pm MDT
ED Level 2 Foyer, East - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Level 2 Foyer 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Tech Support

9:50am MDT

GEG Utah Demo Slam 2026
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
SC 016 - Science Center, Room 016
This is a Demo Slam style presentation and we will host the demos in video form (This makes the presentation go very smoothly). The participants will get to see us present the videos and then vote on the video/tool that they think is the best! The rules will be as follows: Each Google Certified Educator will submit one video Video must demonstrate use of Google tools/add-ons/extensions/etc. Demonstration portion of the video must be ≤ 2 minutes Video must include a brief introduction (may be outside of the 2 minute time limit) Video must conclude with a “SLAM”.

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: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Android Tablet / Smartphone; iPad / iPhone; Windows Tablet / Smartphone; Chromebook; Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Kelli Cannon

Kelli Cannon

Digital Learning Specialist, Jordan School District
Kelli Cannon has been an educator for 12 years, teaching upper elementary students prior to her current role as a Digital Learning Specialist. Kelli holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, as well as endorsements in STEM, Teaching English as a Second Language and Instructional... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
SC 016 - Science Center, Room 016 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

Technology: What Are We (Or Should We Be) Afraid Of?
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level)
Recently passed and proposed legislation proposes to reduce technology use in schools. Is that wise? Is it good? What is it that concerns our parents and legislators? Should it concern us as well? Do we need to rethink our use of technology in our schools? This presentation will review some of the research that either supports or raises concerns about how we use technology in our schools. It will touch on how technology has impacted society, especially our students, and will attempt to tease out the first principles that can help guide our decisions around technology in our schools and our lives.

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 Christijan Draper

Christijan Draper

Technology Director, Daggett School District
Christijan Draper graduated from high school in the Alaskan Bush as a class of one—valedictorian by default. Dr. Draper has a PhD in instructional psychology and technology, a MS in youth and family recreation, and he studied communications as an undergrad. He spent five years as... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

The People Puzzle: Solved with Business Chemistry
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
Every team has a unique blend of personalities, motivators, and working styles — but too often, those differences create friction instead of fuel. Deloitte’s Business Chemistry framework offers a practical, research‑based way to understand how people think, act, and interact at work. This session gives participants an energizing look at the four Business Chemistry types — Pioneers, Guardians, Drivers, and Integrators — and shows how applying these insights can enhance collaboration, communication, and leadership effectiveness.Participants will explore how different types perceive risk, make decisions, handle conflict, and respond to change. Through hands‑on activities and real-world scenarios, they’ll learn strategies to flex their style, improve team cohesion, and bring out the best in every member of their organization.Whether you lead teams, develop people, or simply want to work better with others, this session provides tools you can implement immediately to build stronger, more adaptive, and more high‑performing teams.

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

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: iPad / iPhone; Android Tablet / Smartphone
Speakers
avatar for Piper Riddle

Piper Riddle

Executive Director, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Dedicated educator passionate about fostering curiosity and critical thinking in students and adults; committed to creating a dynamic learning environment that nurtures both academic growth and personal development. Learner, coach, admin, teacher, adjunct, facilitator, leader, mom... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

Advancing Opportunity: Utah Rural Education Supported By Community Partnerships
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level)
1 hour BYOD Workshop:Think about an academic outcome in your school or district that has been particularly difficult to improve (i.e. kindergarten readiness, 3rd grade reading proficiency, 8th grade math proficiency, chronic absenteeism, graduation rates, etc.) In this session, in both large and small groups, we will dig into the data and explore what might change if we bring the full power of the community together to address the sticky outcome. We will examine the strategies you could ask the community to pursue to contribute to improving the outcome. We will discuss community shared accountability for the outcome. Finally, through shared example, we will uncover the power of cross-sector partnerships to move educational outcomes forward. 

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
AA

Amy Ahrens Terpstra

Chief Impact Officer, Promise Partnership of Utah
Amy Ahrens Terpstra has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector. Amy has served as the Chief Impact Officer at United Way of Salt Lake since January 2022, where she is responsible for driving social impact. During the 2026 legislative session, Amy was instrumental in ushering... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

10:50am MDT

Refreshment Break
Friday July 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:10am MDT
Location TBD
TBD
Friday July 17, 2026 10:50am - 11:10am MDT
Location TBD 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Break

11:10am MDT

In Our Google Era: 50 Tools Shaping the Future of Learning
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 016 - Science Center, Room 016
This session explores 50 powerful Google features and integrated tools categorized by six essential future-ready teaching needs: AI, Creation, Collaboration, Creativity, Accessibility, and Personalization. Our focus is on utilizing Google tools to build skills for tomorrow's world. Leave with a ready-to-use plan for instructional change.

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 Kelli Cannon

Kelli Cannon

Digital Learning Specialist, Jordan School District
Kelli Cannon has been an educator for 12 years, teaching upper elementary students prior to her current role as a Digital Learning Specialist. Kelli holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, as well as endorsements in STEM, Teaching English as a Second Language and Instructional... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 016 - Science Center, Room 016 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Mammoth Plans and Jazz Hands: Building an Innovation Lab for Students
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level)
This session details the launch and operation of the Jordan Innovation Lab, a 4−6 grade district Makerspace. We will share specifics on working with community partners, acquiring high-end equipment and integration of classroom content. We will also share hosting district-wide field trips and "Teacher Tinker Time".

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 Jared Covili

Jared Covili

Administrator, Digital Teaching and Learning, Jordan School District
Jared Covili is the Administrator for Digital Teaching and Learning in the Jordan School District.  Jared's background is in secondary education where he was a Language Arts teacher at the secondary level. Jared received his Bachelor's degree in English and his Master's degree in... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

What does a balanced approach to instructional technology use look like in reality?
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127
With so many varying opinions and thoughts around what is and isn't good/healthy surrounding the use of technology in the classroom, what can be done to find a realistic and viable balanced approach to classroom instruction? What are the pillars of a balanced instructional technology approach, and how can we involve our stakeholders to build common understanding and vision?

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 Tony Campbell

Tony Campbell

Director of Learning & Innovation, Washington County School District
I am the Director of the Learning & Innovation Technologies Division for the Washington County School District. I serve on the National Future Ready Schools Advisory Committee, the Utah Digital Learning Advisory Committee, & the National McGraw-Hill Literacy Advisory Committee. I... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 
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2026 Utah Rural Schools Conference
From $50.00

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Wednesday, July 15
Thursday, July 16
Friday, July 17
AU - Auditorium
AU - Auditorium Foyer
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103
BC 208 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 208
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level
CC Rondthaller Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Rondthaller Room (200 Level
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level)
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
ED 104 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 104
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
ED Level 2 Foyer, East - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Level 2 Foyer
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201
GC 306 - General Classroom Building, Room 306
Location TBD
Online Form
SC 016 - Science Center, Room 016
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
SC 129 - Science Center, Room 129
  • Assessment & Data Management
  • Break
  • Conference Info
  • Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy
  • Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Instructional Coaching
  • Keynote
  • Keynote Breakout Session
  • Leadership
  • Other
  • Presenter Workspace
  • Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs)
  • School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
  • Tech Support
  • Technology & AI
  • Utah Core Curriculum
  • Session Format
  • 1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities
  • 1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation
  • 2 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities
  • 2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop
  • 2 hour Playground - hands on activities and discussions with various small groups during a 2-hour window
  • 2 Hour Poster Session - informal discussions with various small groups during a 2-hour window
  • 20 minute focus on specific solutions or tools (Over The Shoulder)
  • Break
  • Conference Info
  • Keynote
  • Keynote Speaker Session
  • Presenter Workspace
  • Tech Support
  • Grade Level
  • 3-4
  • 46085
  • 46148
  • 5-6
  • All Grade Levels
  • Elementary - grades K - 6
  • High School - grades 9 - 12
  • Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8
  • Not Applicable
  • PK - 2
  • Audience
  • All of the above
  • Conference Speakers
  • Counselors or School-based Ment
  • Counselors or School-based Mental / Behavioral Health Professionals
  • Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals
  • Curriculum Specialists
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