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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
Wednesday, July 15
 

1:30pm MDT

From PD to Practice: A Practical System for PD That Sticks
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level)
Professional development often leaves teachers inspired but not prepared to immediately implement new practices in their classrooms. This session introduces a practical, system-level approach to bridging the gap between professional learning and classroom application. Participants will explore the High Impact Instructional Practices (HIIP) MicroPD model: a teacher-driven system designed to support consistent use of high-impact instructional strategies across content areas.Built on more than 70 research-based, classroom-ready strategies and tools, this model emphasizes teacher choice, immediate application, and iterative practice. Participants will gain insight into how this system has been piloted across multiple schools and how it can improve instructional consistency while supporting teacher autonomy.Attendees will leave with a clear framework for designing professional learning that is practical, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of diverse classrooms—especially in schools where teachers must balance multiple roles and content areas.

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

Speakers
avatar for Camille Johnson

Camille Johnson

Instructional Coach, Bountiful High School
Camille Johnson is an instructional coach at Bountiful High School in Davis School District with nearly three decades of experience in education. Her work focuses on designing professional learning systems that support teachers in consistently applying high-impact instructional practices... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 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
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Carrots over Sticks: Transforming School Culture Through Positive Incentives
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
In an era where traditional disciplinary measures often lead to burnout rather than behavioral change, it’s time to "flip the script." This session moves beyond punitive "stick" approaches to explore how high-impact, positive incentives can fundamentally reshape school culture.The secret to success lies in identifying "Student Currency"—what actually motivates today’s learners? We will move past generic stickers to uncover the social, digital, and experiential rewards that resonate with Generation Alpha and Gen Z. Attendees will learn how to build a scalable incentive framework that boosts three critical pillars:Academic Performance: Gamifying growth and celebrating "personal bests."Behavioral Excellence: Shifting the focus from catching students being "bad" to reinforcing the "good."School Spirit: Creating a sense of belonging that turns students into stakeholders.Whether you are in a small K-12 school or a large rural high school, you will leave with a practical "menu of incentives" and a strategic plan to implement a reward system that is sustainable, equitable, and effective.

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 Nathan Blackner

Nathan Blackner

Principal, Richfield High School
Principal of Richfield High School.  Nate taught biology, chemistry, physics both at high school and concurrent levels for 18 years prior to moving into an administrative role as an instructional coach and now as a Principal.
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Rising Above Low Expectation: How to Scaffold Learning for Students
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
As educators in rural areas, we often find ourselves working with students who have significant challenges and barriers in their academic work. This can make meeting grade level expectations very difficult. Too often, out of the deep care we have for students, we end up lowering the expectations for these learners. But all students deserve to be held to high expectations. This session will emphasize the need for these high expectations and provide practical ideas for K-12 classroom teachers on how to maintain these high expectations for all students through supports and scaffolds. Participants will leave with a list of strategies that are research-based, but easy to apply and use 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 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 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 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

Coaching Learning Intentions and Success Criteria as Formative Assessment Opportunities
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

This collaborative session is targeted toward school leaders and instructional coaches who support teachers in strengthening teacher practices. The objectives of the course include: deepen our understanding of Teacher Clarity, determine how formative assessment can drive intervention and extension during tier one instruction, and plan next steps for supporting and coaching teachers in the implementation of these strategies to benefit the growth of all students. Participants will engage in pair shares, review of research, and other collaborative structures to deepen understanding of the strategies and information presented to reinforce that what matters most is continuous improvement by growing each and every student.  Teacher clarity provides opportunities to strengthen students’ understanding of what they are learning. While learning intentions specify the content of the standard, success criteria focuses on the skills they need to master that standard. Smaller and rural schools are often limited by the available resources and must depend on evidence-based instructional practices to build the capacity of leaders and teachers. By strengthening teacher clarity and formative assessment, the school can sustain student growth and proficiency without investing in programs and resources that are costly. When teachers engage students in formative assessment, such as checks for understanding, that directly connect to the success criteria, they are able to monitor and adjust instruction to determine the next steps. Formative assessment is a critical practice for ensuring all students grow and become proficient when we make decisions based on that data, including whole group or small group reteach, intervention, and extensions. These instructional and assessment skills build a data-rich school within a culture of investment in high 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: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Davis

Stephanie Davis

School and District Improvement Specialist, WestEd
Stephanie served as a turnaround principal in Arizona at a Title One school. Focused on high yield strategies, the school became an A-rated Arizona School, A+ School of Excellence, ICLE Model School for Growth, and Stephanie was named a top ten principal in Arizona for student growth... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Fractions and Art: Beyond the Pizza
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 306 - General Classroom Building, Room 306
💻 Format Alert: This is an extended, 2-hour hands-on session—please bring your own laptop or tablet to fully participate!

Move beyond traditional fraction pizzas and pies! In this hands-on workshop we will. create multiple visual art projects designed to help children develop an understanding of fractions and strengthen mathematical skills. Come prepared to think deeply, create, and have fun.Resources Folder: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1E944gfv_4K3Vg-URZiDE93Tc1PHmAZ37?usp=share_link

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 Alisa Petersen

Alisa Petersen

Beverley Taylor Sorenson Endowed Chair of Elementary Arts Education, SUU - Southern Utah University
Alisa Petersen is the Beverley Taylor Sorenson Endowed Chair of Elementary Art Education at Southern Utah University. As the director of the artsFUSION outreach program, Alisa combines her passions for art, creativity and the maker movement to coordinate, develop, and teach arts-integrated... Read More →
ZP
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 306 - General Classroom Building, Room 306 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Sing It. Draw It. Learn It!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

Discover engaging, practical strategies for integrating visual art and music into the elementary classroom to deepen student learning and creativity. This interactive session will explore hands-on activities, cross-curricular connections, and standards-aligned lessons that blend sound, color, movement, and expression. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas that foster collaboration, critical thinking, and joyful learning while supporting academic content across subjects. Perfect for K–5 educators looking to bring meaningful arts integration into their teaching practice.

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 →
KM

Kim Montano

Beverley Taylor Sorenson Program Manager, Westminster University
will add later
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Using the Early Math Assessment Data
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122
We will learn how to use the data from the early math assessment to inform our instruction.  To assist our learning, we will utilize the data through available reports and other tools in the assessment system.

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 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 →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Teacher Reflection and Instruction Data Made Easy With AI
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
Micro teaching—where teachers reflect on recordings of their instruction to improve practice—has one of the highest effect sizes in education (0.88 per Hattie). But in reality, it’s rarely used. The traditional process is time-consuming, uncomfortable, and often impractical. What if teachers could get the benefits of micro teaching without the hassle?This session introduces an AI-powered solution that makes micro teaching simple, private, and powerful. With tools like TeachFX, educators can press “record” at the start of a lesson and, minutes after pressing “stop,” receive an automated analysis of their talk-time, questioning, student engagement, and more—no video reviews or manual data collection required.Attendees will explore how AI is transforming teacher reflection, review real-world examples, and learn how schools can use this technology to accelerate professional growth, improve instruction, and boost student outcomes—effortlessly.

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 Lance Hatch

Lance Hatch

Superintendent, Iron County School District
Dr. Lance Hatch is a former elementary teacher, principal, and district director. He currently serves as the superintendent of the Iron County School District. He earned a PhD in Teacher Education and Leadership with a dissertation focused on expert teacher planning for and delivery... Read More →
avatar for Yaerli Anderson
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Bridging the Gap: Addressing Teacher Recruitment and Retention in Rural Utah Schools
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
Program Description / Abstract: The recruitment and retention of highly qualified educators in rural Utah school districts has reached a critical juncture. Local administrators face persistent systemic challenges that threaten the long-term stability of rural educational systems. This presentation examines how geographic isolation and limited community amenities frequently cause prospective candidates to withdraw from the hiring process. These environmental factors are further exacerbated by lower salary scales compared to urban districts and a lack of access to essential technology and instructional resources (Hannover Research, 2019).Furthermore, rural educators often experience professional isolation due to limited opportunities for collaboration and specialized development, particularly in high-need areas such as STEM, special education, and early childhood education. Drawing on current research, this session highlights four primary drivers of rural teacher attrition:Challenges with school administration.Lack of community connection.Insufficient training and support.Limited access to professional mentoring.Participant Outcomes: By the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to:Identify the four primary factors contributing to teacher attrition in rural settings.Evaluate how administrative support, community integration, and mentoring programs influence teacher longevity.Engage in collaborative discussions to brainstorm scalable solutions for these persistent rural challenges.Analyze specific policies and procedures that can be implemented to improve recruitment and retention in their own districts. 

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 Celina Poppe

Celina Poppe

Educational Leadership and Policy Doctoral Candidate at the University of Utah, University of Utah
While a doctoral candidate in Education (EdD) specializing in Educational Leadership and Police at the University of Utah, I am working as a Regional Accreditation Evaluator for Cognia where I conducted comprehensive evaluations of educational institutions, ensuring adherence to accreditation... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm 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. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no 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

A Brief Introduction to Trust-Based Relational Interventions (TBRI)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204
This session will provide a brief introduction to Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). TBRI is a trauma-informed model for caregivers to help children with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges stemming from trauma. It is built on three principles—Empowering, Connecting, and Correcting—which focus on meeting a child's physical and emotional needs, building secure attachments, and guiding them toward positive behavior and self-regulation. Developed at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development (KPICD) at Texas Christian University, TBRI is used for children of all ages who have experienced hardship or trauma. This training is not affiliated with the KPICD, and the information included is based on TBRI. The presenter is a TBRI Practitioner.

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
LE
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 
Thursday, July 16
 

9:45am MDT

20 in 20: Rapid-Fire Strategies for Classroom Engagement
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:03am 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.

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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Canva Reimagined: Unlock the Magic
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
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
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Making Sheets Work For You
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203
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
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

AI, Bloom, and the Cognitive Gap in Educational Technology
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
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
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

10 Minute Movement ideas for Language Arts k-6th grade
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level)
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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Beyond Aspire Plus: Navigating the Transition in High School Assessment
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Simple and Easy Adaptations in the Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106
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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

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.

9:45am MDT

The Power of Student Voice: Enhancing Literacy Through Oral Language
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
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
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Supporting Multilingual Learners in the ELA Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122
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
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Getting Your New Teachers to Stay: Research to Impact Practice in Small Schools
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer
🖼️ Format Alert: This is a relaxed, 2-hour "drop-in" poster session where you can browse at your leisure and chat informally with presenters.

New teacher attrition is a concern for all school systems, especially small or rural schools. Learn current research insights regarding new teacher induction. This poster session will suggest ways to design effective mentoring and induction activities based on research. Discussion, interaction, sharing of best practices, and exploring ways to impact new teacher retention in your setting will be a key part of this presentation. Finally, I will ask for interview volunteers to help in my research and will provide initial research findings, if possible.

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: 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
  Instructional Coaching, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Patterns & Partnerships
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103
🧠 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
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

10:06am MDT

Community Access to Care for First Episode Psychosis
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:06am - 10:24am 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.

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
DC
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
  Other, 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.

11:10am MDT

Engagement 101
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level)
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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Engagement Strategies for the Middle Years 6th-8th Grade
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106
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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Exploring Utah's Writing Benchmark Platform
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122
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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Intro to PCBL: Guiding Principles & Strategies for Improving Learning
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

The Science of Learning in Utah Math Classrooms
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
 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
  Utah Core Curriculum, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

11:52am MDT

Igniting STEAM
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:52am - 12:10pm 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.

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
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required., Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required., Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

From Data to Insights: Monitoring Student Achievement Over Time via Utah RISE
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level)
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
  Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

From Prompt to Page: Building Better Canvas Content with AI
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
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
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Today's Middle School Student
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106
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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Writing Formative Assessment Clusters
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201
💻 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
  Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Art Tools and Teacher Tricks
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 306 - General Classroom Building, Room 306
🧠 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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Evidence-Based Instruction Available to Your Area from The UURC
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103
🧠 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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Scaffolding Tier 1 Phonics Instruction
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
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
  Instructional Coaching, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Utah Core Curriculum, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Middle Level Educators Unite
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106
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
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

3D Science lessons- Gravity and Inertia
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level)
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
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 
Friday, July 17
 

9:50am MDT

Where have all the Teachers Gone (and can we get those left to STAY)?
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
Teachers are becoming increasingly difficult to find. Those who have been in the profession for many years are increasingly likely to retire.  The teachers who replace them are more likely to leave the profession within the first five years.  The effects of this are being felt by children who are increasingly likely to be taught by first or last year teachers during at least one of their years in school. This is doubly true in rural districts. While many education advocates focus on the need for more public investment to better meet educators' extrinsic needs, at the ground level we can't afford to wait for these battles to be won.  This presentation is based on over a decade of practice focused on improving the capacity of schools and districts to meet educators' intrinsic needs. Pursuing this strategy has effectively reduced teacher burnout and turnover.  These practices range from encouraging greater autonomy and stability for teachers to bringing in artificial intelligence based tools that can support the 24/7 needs of teachers.  Come join us for a discussion of everyday practices principals, lead teachers and teacher coaches can utilize to improve teacher retention by making teaching the best job in your community.  

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 Sean Rickert

Sean Rickert

Manager, Quality Education for Everyone LLC
After serving for 14 years as a rural school superintendent, Mr. Rickert is now connecting with rural school leaders throughout the 4-corners region to share lessons, connect questions with answers, and bring powerful tools to rural education leaders. During his tenure he served as... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

Courtside Culture - Lessons in Leadership from Basketball's Greatest Minds
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
Think there isn't anything that translates from the hardwood to the hallways? Think again. This session breaks down the leadership strategies used by basketball's greatest minds and applies them to the educational setting. You will leave with a concrete set of principles to foster safety & purpose, and transform even the most challenging classes or faculties into a cohesive, championship-level team.

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 →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

New Teacher Retention: Influence Your Young Teachers to Stay
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127
New Teacher Retention: Influence Your Young Teachers to Stay After 17 years in secondary leadership roles working with new teachers, I know new teachers in Utah need our best efforts and when they leave a cascade of consequences follow. New teacher attrition is a concern for all school systems, especially small or rural schools. Learn current research insights regarding new teacher induction. We will discuss ways to design effective mentoring and induction activities based on research and brainstorm about what works in various Utah settings. Participation, interaction, sharing of best practices, and learning ways to impact new teacher retention in your setting will be a key part of this presentation. Finally, I will ask for interview volunteers to help in my research regarding new teachers' experiences. Together we can work to keep new teachers in our schools. Join me for my session!

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: iPad / iPhone; Windows Laptop
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 →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

You Are Not the Test Score: Reclaiming Care and Influence in an Age of Testing
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
Most of us entered education to make a difference in the lives of our students. Yet over time, many of us begin carrying a quiet and exhausting burden: the sense that we are responsible for outcomes we cannot fully control. When success is reduced to numbers, it becomes easy to confuse our professional worth with performance metrics. In that environment, the result is often exhaustion rather than excellence.This interactive session creates space for honest reflection about the experiences of care and mis-care that shape our experience as educators. Together, we will examine how accountability pressures can distort responsibility and increase emotional strain—especially in rural communities where we often serve in multiple roles and relationships run deep.Drawing from research on organizational culture and the ethics of care, we will explore a liberating shift from control to cultivation. We will practice three skills that help restore agency and peace in our work:Attunement – responding thoughtfully rather than trying to fix everythingDiscernment – staying curious instead of certainResponsibility – owning our effort and influence without carrying every outcomeThrough guided reflection and structured dialogue, we will clarify what is truly ours to carry—and what is not.Participants will leave with practical language and tools to reduce burnout, strengthen trust, and reconnect with the deeper purpose that brought us into education in the first place.Presentation materials and reflection tools will be shared following the session.

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 Joshua Hales

Joshua Hales

Associate Professor, Snow College
Josh Hales is a professor at Snow College who studies and teaches leadership, responsibility, and the role of care in shaping healthy institutions. With experience in business leadership and higher education, he brings a practical lens to the challenges educators face in performance-driven... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level) 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.

9:50am MDT

Strategies for Students Reading Below Grade Level in Middle School
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106
Middle school is a critical turning point for literacy. As content anguage becomes denser and subject matter more complex, the achievement gap for students reading below grade level can widen rapidly. By 6th to 8th grade, many striving readers have become experts at masking their struggles with apathy or avoidance. They don't just need more independent reading time—they need a lifeline.This dynamic, highly practical session is designed specifically for middle school educators. We will bypass dense theory and dive straight into actionable tips and classroom routines that respect the maturity of young adolescents while actively repairing foundational reading gaps for any content area. What You Will Learn:The Middle School Buy-In: Proven engagement tactics to break down defensive walls, rebuild reading confidence, and motivate reluctant learners.Age-Appropriate Interventions: How to discreetly address foundational gaps in phonics and fluency using tools and texts that never feel "babyish."High-Yield Scaffolding: Equip students with strategies to tackle complex, grade-level texts across ELA, Science, and Social Studies.Quick-Win Routines: Low-prep, daily habits that rapidly build vocabulary, background knowledge, and reading stamina.Join us to build a customized toolkit of high-impact strategies you can immediately implement to empower your students and change their reading trajectory.

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
LM

Laura Mauer

English /Reading Teacher, Utah Middle Level Associaiton
Hi, I am a 10th-year teacher (a 30-year employee of the Granite School District) who has worked in many different teaching environments. I was an SPED teaching assistant for 20 years, worked with students in a lock-up facility, and teach methods courses at Westminster University in... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

Understanding & Supporting Student Behavior: A Teacher-Centered Approach
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

Understanding & Supporting Student Behavior: A Teacher-Centered ApproachBehavior challenges are one of the most exhausting parts of teaching — but what if the key to change started with you? In this interactive session, we'll explore how your perspective, mindset, and classroom practices directly shape the behaviors you see every day. Grounded in the science of behavior, participants will gain a clear understanding of the four functions of behavior and learn to decode why students act the way they do — not just what they're doing.Walk away with three practical, low-prep preventative strategies you can implement immediately, plus a personalized action plan to tackle your most pressing behavior challenge. Whether you're a first-year teacher or a seasoned educator, this session will leave you feeling more confident, equipped, and empowered to build a classroom where every student can thrive.

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 Amanda Powell

Amanda Powell

CEO of Close the Gap, Close the Gap
Amanda is a passionate advocate for educational equity and a trailblazer in literacyintervention.She is the CEO of close the gap, and also works as a professional learning consultant with EPS Learning , an organization dedicated tomove students forward on the path to literacy.With... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Advanced - considerable experience; significant prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Advanced - considerable experience; significant prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

Grow Lab
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 12:10pm MDT
BC 208 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 208
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

With lessons that support SEEd standard 3.2.1, Grow Lab evolved from an award-winning classroom program Red Butte offered for over two decades. In addition to engaging with the curriculum, this workshop provides you with your own grow frame and supplies to grow plants in your classroom at no cost to you. The seeds you receive are Wisconsin Fast Plants® (Brassica rapa); these plants complete their life cycle, from planting seeds to harvesting the seeds, in 40 days. This allows you and your 3rd graders to develop and refine models of changes that happen throughout the life cycle of Fast Plants® in real 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
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 →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 12:10pm MDT
BC 208 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 208 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

Thinking on our Feet: A Building Thinking Classrooms Experience
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 306 - General Classroom Building, Room 306
💻 Format Alert: This is an extended, 2-hour hands-on session—please bring your own laptop or tablet to fully participate!

This session will be a Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC) lesson (related to the book by Dr. Peter Liljedahl). Participants will participate in a BTC lesson start to finish, including launch, a thin sliced task, all the different types of consolidation (Gallery walk, teacher scribe, Check Your Understanding, Notes to my future forgetful self). The session will include the newest updates to BTC research. For the second half of the workshop, participants will create their own lesson (launch, task, consolidation) using existing curriculum and standards for their grade level. Note: It may be useful to have a device and access to your curriculum for the second half of the workshop. I will have paper you can use if you don't have one :)

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 Wendy Moss-Doong

Wendy Moss-Doong

Secondary Math Teacher, Silver Summit Academy
I have been a teacher for over a decade, and I have taught every grade level from 4th through 12th. I have been teaching math for the past five years at multiple levels, though I currently teach only 7th, 9th, 11th, and AP Calculus. I am working on a PhD in Curriculum and Instruction... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 306 - General Classroom Building, Room 306 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

4-Part Model to School Culture
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203
At South Sevier High School, we began the 2025/26 school year with a brand new principal, assistant principal, and school guidance counselor. As a new administrative team, we began the year pursuing the ideal of creating the perfect high school. This presentation will focus on our vision as a new team, the 4-part model of what can help create that perfect or ideal school, and the efforts we have made to improve our school.In this session, we will explore the four key pillars that we believe helps build this ideal school:1) Academics2) Discipline3) Tradition and School Pride4) Safe and Fun EnvironmentThese pillars resont on a unified foundation of success, helping provide a framework for a thriving educational culture and community.

Speakers
avatar for Amy Robinson
SH

Stuart Hepworth

Principal, South Sevier High School/Sevier School District
I am an experienced educator and school leader with a strong commitment to student success and community engagement. I graduated from Cedar High School before pursuing higher education at Southern Utah University, where I earned both a Bachelor’s degree in English and a Master’s... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm 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.

11:10am MDT

Bridging the Gap to Grade-Level Text in the secondary classroom marks a critical shift from "learning to read" to "reading to learn" through evidence-based, equitable instruction.
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level)
Bridging the Gap to Grade-Level Text in the secondary classroom marks a critical shift from "learning to read" to "reading to learn" through evidence-based, equitable instruction. In a secondary setting, the Science of Reading transcends basic phonics to focus on disciplinary literacy, ensuring every student—regardless of their current reading level—has access to the complex, grade-level text they deserve. This approach moves beyond mere theory to provide a "boots on the ground" toolkit designed to maintain rigor across all content areas, including Science, Social Studies, Math, and ELA. By scaffolding up rather than differentiating down, educators ensure they are not simplifying the curriculum, but rather amplifying the support needed to meet high academic standards.Equity through access is the heartbeat of this instructional model, rooted in the belief that every student deserves to grapple with high-quality, grade-level text. A teacher’s expertise is the most powerful variable in the classroom; essentially, how well one teaches equals how well students learn. Inspired by research-based frameworks like Lexia Aspire®, Keys to Adolescent Literacy, LETRS, and The Writing Revolution, this method fosters an equitable environment where the teacher's skill drives literacy growth. The ultimate objective is immediate implementation through quick, explicit routines that take less than five minutes of class time yet yield massive results in comprehension.The first two pillars of the Secondary Literacy Toolkit focus on word-level mastery and the transition to meaning. The Multisyllabic "Attack" provides students with a "Longer Word Strategy" through word study and morphology. This involves explicit routines like "scooping" to chunk words by vowel sounds and investigating morphology—the prefixes, suffixes, and Latin/Greek roots that act as the "Lego bricks" of language. Building on this, Fluency acts as the bridge between word recognition and comprehension. Because learning is not a spectator sport, routines such as Choral, Cloze, Echo, and Dyad reading ensure that if one student is reading, everyone is reading, leveraging peer support to master the prosody of complex text.The third pillar emphasizes Explicit Vocabulary and Knowledge Building, moving far beyond "looking up definitions" toward deep ownership of Tier 2 and Tier 3 words. Educators learn to identify "load-bearing" words essential to a text's meaning. This process highlights the reciprocity of literacy—the idea that reading and writing are two sides of the same coin. By utilizing "The Writing Revolution" techniques, such as "Because, But, So" or Sentence Expansion, students immediately apply new vocabulary through writing to cement their understanding. This ensures that the cognitive load remains on the student, fostering active participation rather than passive observation.Finally, Scaffolding Complex Text ensures that rigor is maintained without compromising accessibility. Rather than simplifying the prose, teachers amplify the support through explicit vocabulary routines that move from basic definitions to deep conceptual understanding. By breaking down complex syntax and using sentence expansion, students can digest dense academic prose that might otherwise be out of reach. This strategic planning shifts the cognitive load toward the learner, adhering to the principle that if the teacher does all the talking, the teacher does all the learning. The goal is a classroom where instruction meets the demands of the text, ensuring all students are equipped to succeed.

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 Amy Mahoney

Amy Mahoney

PreK-12 Instructional Coach, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
As a NUES Region PreK-12 Instructional Coach, I am dedicated to the art of continuous learning and professional growth. I hold a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Curriculum & Instruction with an emphasis in ESL & ESOL. My professional credentials include endorsements in Reading, Coaching... Read More →
Friday July 17, 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
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 
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2026 Utah Rural Schools Conference
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Wednesday, July 15
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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
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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
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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
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