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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. 
Type: Leadership clear filter
Wednesday, July 15
 

1:30pm MDT

From Policy to Practice: Navigating Utah’s 2026 Early Literacy Changes
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
Utah’s 2026 legislative session introduced significant changes to early literacy instruction that will directly impact schools and districts. This session will unpack key policy shifts—including new assessment requirements, strengthened intervention expectations, third-grade retention tied to reading proficiency, and increased funding for literacy supports—and explore their implications for practice. Participants will gain clarity on how these changes influence instructional design, assessment systems, staffing, and resource allocation, while also identifying practical next steps to align with evidence-based literacy practices. This session will support educators in translating policy into actionable strategies that improve early literacy outcomes for all students.

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 Piper Riddle

Piper Riddle

Executive Director, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Dedicated educator passionate about fostering curiosity and critical thinking in students and adults; committed to creating a dynamic learning environment that nurtures both academic growth and personal development. Learner, coach, admin, teacher, adjunct, facilitator, leader, mom... Read More →
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 →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm 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.

1:30pm MDT

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

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

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

Kayla Towner

Senior Product Trainer, UEN - Utah Education Network
Kayla Towner is a Senior Product Trainer at the Utah Education Network (UEN) and, first and foremost, a passionate educator. She loves spending time with her family—playing soccer ⚽️, reading books 📚, hiking 🥾, and adventuring across Utah 🏔️. Kayla is dedicated to... Read More →
avatar for Dani Sloan

Dani Sloan

IT Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Dr. Dani Sloan helps educators lead, research, and teach digital citizenship. She's a UEN Product Manager and Instructor at the University of Utah. She is a former Elementary Teacher and current mom to a seventh grader. Dani is passionate about preparing students for a digital world... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

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

The Dignity Index: How to disagree without being disagreeable
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204
Feedback Survey
The Dignity Index is an eight-point scale that can be used for both students and staff to learn how to disagree without being disagreeable. Classrooms are where students discuss ideas. And the discussions of ideas can and should lead to disagreement to create new ideas. For this process to work students must learn the skills of civil discussion, especially as the ideas in social studies or English classrooms become more complex and never have a single right answer. We will discuss the Dignity Index and how it meets both state and national standards while discussing the ideas of your content. During the discussion, we will both practice using the Index in the high school classroom as well as reflecting on its positive impacts for students and teachers outside your classroom.

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: Any web enabled device
Speakers
avatar for Stephan Seabury

Stephan Seabury

Teacher and Community Engagement Lead, Teacher Fellows, Providence Hall High School
Mr. Seabury believes a civically engaged teacher creates civically engaged students. His students learn not only the content of how our government works but are given opportunities in and outside of the classroom to meet with policy makers and practice the skills of civic engagem... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204 351 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.

1:30pm MDT

Utah School Safety in 2026: Understanding the Updated Legislative Landscape
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
The 2026 Utah legislative session introduced major changes to school safety requirements, affecting emergency planning, threat assessment, reporting obligations, and coordination with law enforcement. This 60‑minute session distills the most important updates, clarifies new compliance expectations, and explains how these laws interact with existing state and federal guidance. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of what has changed and practical steps for updating local policies and procedures.

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 Pistello

Ashley Pistello

School Safety Center Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Ashley Pistello joined the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) as the School Safety Center Specialist in 2023. She previously collaborated with the Utah School Safety Center as a liaison from SafeUT and the Huntsman Mental Health Institute (HMHI). In addition to her experience as... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 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
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Teacher Leaders as the Engine of School Improvement: From Strategy to Practice
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127
What if teacher leadership was not an add-on, but rather the engine that drives school improvement?Too often, teacher leadership lives in isolated roles or initiatives rather than as a coherent system that drives instructional improvement. This session explores how intentionally designed, ongoing professional learning can position teacher leaders as central to improvement, not just participants in it.Grounded in UEPC’s LIFT framework, participants will examine how structured professional learning, clear instructional priorities, and collaborative data use build the capacity of teacher leaders to facilitate meaningful conversations and lead improvement efforts. We will explore practical approaches for supporting teacher leaders in translating data into action, strengthening collaboration, and sustaining momentum over time.Through a district example from Tooele County School District, participants will see how leveraging guiding coalitions across multiple schools to build coherence and scale teacher leadership as a driver of continuous improvement.Whether you are part of a large district or a single-site school or charter, this session will provide practical strategies to design professional learning systems that empower teacher leaders, build collective efficacy, and improve teaching and learning.Session Objectives:Clarify the role of teacher leaders as drivers of school improvementAnalyze how professional learning builds leadership capacityLearn from practice by examining how a district is creating the conditions for coherence and scaleApply a process for moving from data to instructional and leadership actionsIdentify one actionable next step to strengthen teacher leadership in their context

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 Cori Groth

Cori Groth

Associate Director, Utah Education Policy Center
Cori Groth, Ph.D.
Associate Director, Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC)
Dr. Cori Groth is the Associate Director of the Utah Education Policy Center at the University of Utah, where she collaborates with school, district, and community leaders to strengthen programs, policies, and practices that lead to excellent and equitable outcomes for young people... Read More →
avatar for Shalon Jones-Miller

Shalon Jones-Miller

2025-2026 Principal - Clarke N. Johnsen Jr High, Tooele County School District
avatar for Kody Colvin

Kody Colvin

Lead School & District Improvement Specialist, Utah Education Policy Center
Kody Colvin is a Lead School and District Improvement Specialist with the Utah Education Policy Center, where he partners with schools and systems to strengthen instructional leadership, professional learning, and continuous improvement efforts. With over 15 years of experience in... Read More →
SJ
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

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

Learner-Centered Design: Evidence, Iteration, and Impact
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122
Learner-centered education is often discussed aspirationally, but successful implementation requires clear structures, agency for all learners, and evidence-informed decision-making. Join us in exploring how one school in Salt Lake City is pursuing these ideas. Participants will explore concrete examples, implementation protips, and indicators of impact that support personalized and competency-based learning.  Put your students in the driver's seat of their education and their future!

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

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

Nathan Auck

Founder and Principal Consultant, Catalyst for Coherence
Nathan Auck has over two decades of educational experience, spanning roles in alternative school teaching and leadership to STEM Coordinator and Personalized Competency Based Learning Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. A Presidential Award winner and Albert Einstein... Read More →
KG
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm 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. |   Leadership, 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.

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

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

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

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

Garrett Russell

Utah State Board of Education
avatar for Megan Menlove

Megan Menlove

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

2:50pm MDT

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

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

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

Andrea Rorrer

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

Kody Colvin

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

Amy Reynolds

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

2:50pm MDT

Rediscovering True Education: Classroom Practices That Actually Work
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
In my session, I will share practical, evidence-based techniques and strategies that equip teachers in rural schools with the tools and support needed to manage low-level chronic disruptions, reduce disciplinary referrals, and enhance teaching time.  By empowering teachers to effectively manage classroom behavior, my training reduces stress, reclaims valuable instructional time, and fosters an optimal learning culture that elevates instruction and teaching in order to reach every student and fulfill every teacher.  

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 Kenneth Applegate

Kenneth Applegate

Educator, Local Education Advocate
Kenneth Applegate believes genuine connections with students are essential for academic success. His own educational background and love of lifelong learning continues to fuel his passion to help educators embrace their callings.   He advocates for research-based, practical strategies... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm 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. |   Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 
Thursday, July 16
 

9:45am MDT

School Leadership Theory vs. Practice: Doing what should be done while doing what has to be done
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127
TBD

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 Quinn Kellis

Quinn Kellis

Leadership Development Coordinator, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Dr. Quinn Kellis is the Leadership Development Coordinator at USBE. He leads the USBE School Improvement team, is the Accreditation Liaison, Rural Schools Liaison, and chair of the Utah Coalition of Education Leaders. He is a former superintendent from Arizona where he served 32 years... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Why Some PLCs Pop and Other Don't: Small Shifts That Lead to Big Results
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
Some PLCs lead to meaningful gains in teaching and student learning while others struggle to move beyond routine meetings. What makes the difference? In this interactive session, teachers and leaders will examine the key practices of effective teams, reflect on their current reality, and identify small, high-leverage shifts that can strengthen collaboration and improve results. Participants will leave with practical strategies and clear next steps they can implement immediately in their own PLCs.

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 David Boren

David Boren

Assistant Clinical Professor, Brigham Young University
David Boren grew up on a small farm in Northern Idaho before heading to BYU to study elementary education. He loved his years in the public schools as a teacher and administrator, and during those years worked on a master’s and PhD in Educational Leadership from BYU. He is now starting... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some 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

Policy Implications for Principalship: "An Unfunded Mandate"
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.

It seems that education is one of the most over-politicized fields. Each year the legislature tries to "solve" all of "problems" they see in society by pushing more policies into the schools. Administrators play a big role in implementation for many of the top-down policies that are newly signed into law each year.  Sometimes the laws make a little bit of sense. Sometimes they are just a nuisance. This poster session will discuss finding from my dissertation regarding policy implementation struggles and successes for school leaders. It will also give participants an opportunity to share their biggest policy struggles with me to guide my next research project because until practitioners and legislatures see each other, not much is going to change.  Let's make policy work for Utah's rural school children!

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 Bethany McGarry

Bethany McGarry

Doctoral Student, USU - Utah State University
Bethany is a product of Utah's rural school system and this summer she will be completing her PhD in Education at Utah State University. She is interested in school leadership and education policy. Her career has been focused on language education, specifically Utah's dual language... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer 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.

9:45am MDT

Going for Gold: The New Gold Medal Schools Framework
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer
🛝 Format Alert: This is a fluid, 2-hour "drop-in" playground where you can stop by anytime to explore small-group activities at your own pace.

Join us for an engaging session on the Gold Medal Schools Program, a comprehensive initiative designed to promote healthy lifestyles, regular physical activity, and nutritious eating habits among students. Originally created to coincide with the 2002 Utah Olympics, this locally developed program is being re-established to align with the upcoming 2034 Olympic games, playing a key role in the state's broader Rural Health Transformation Plan.In this session, we will explore the core components of the proposed five-year Gold Medal Schools Pilot Program, which empowers eligible elementary schools to implement evidence-based strategies and create school policies that support lifelong health and wellnessLearning Intentions: Inform participants about the new Gold Medal Schools Program for rural schools, including grant opportunities.Demonstrate the framework (to be developed) and model activities that educators can implement as part of the program. Activities may include: nutrition education, fitness assessments, adaptive and inclusive sports, bike education, and active transport. Success Criteria: Participants have access to the framework and understand the  requirements of Gold Medal Schools. They will also know how to apply for funding for the 2026-27 school year. Participants can lead and administer the activities modeled during the session with students. 

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
JP
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Managing Change as a New School Administrator
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127
This session is designed for the new school administrator, and will provide a framework for understanding how to assess and navigate the change needed in a school for which you are the new principal. This program will identify four key types of schools, the unique qualities of each, and how best to move forward in making change and improving a school based on these descriptions.

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 Doug Stump

Doug Stump

Director of Graduate Programs, Education, Southern Utah University
Doug Stump teaches in the Educational Leadership program at Southern Utah University. Doug has 18 years experience in Pk-12 schools as a teacher, mid-level administrator and head of school. Doug has worked with schools in Virginia, rural western New York and Texas. He has 14 years... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Everything that Matters Begins with Trust: How to Create It, Sustain It, and Restore It
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
This workshop helps educators examine trust as the foundation for effective learning, leadership, and school culture. Participants will review the sources of trust in a school, practice trust-building responses to common school scenarios, and leave with a concrete commitment for specific actions.  The focus will be on practical application of concepts in case studies and hands-on activities that answer the question: “What does trust look like in schools?  How do leaders and teachers create and sustain it?”

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 Dale COX

Dale COX

Associate Professor, Program Director K-12 Educational Leadership, UVU - Utah Valley University
Dale Cox is an Associate Professor and the Program Director of K-12 Educational Leadership at Utah Valley University.  He received his doctorate in educational leadership from Lehigh University, his M.Ed. in educational administration from Arizona State University, and his B.A. in... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm 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.

1:30pm MDT

From Fragmented to Focused: Strengthening Your School’s System of Support
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127
When systems of support are fragmented, students experience delays, duplication, or missed opportunities. This session helps educators move toward a more focused and aligned approach by clarifying how collaborative teacher teams, school leadership teams, and intervention teams work together within an RTI framework. Participants will leave with practical tools and strategies to improve coordination, ensure timely interventions, and better meet the needs of all learners.

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 David Boren

David Boren

Assistant Clinical Professor, Brigham Young University
David Boren grew up on a small farm in Northern Idaho before heading to BYU to study elementary education. He loved his years in the public schools as a teacher and administrator, and during those years worked on a master’s and PhD in Educational Leadership from BYU. He is now starting... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Leading High Leverage Practices in Schools
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
TBD

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 Quinn Kellis

Quinn Kellis

Leadership Development Coordinator, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Dr. Quinn Kellis is the Leadership Development Coordinator at USBE. He leads the USBE School Improvement team, is the Accreditation Liaison, Rural Schools Liaison, and chair of the Utah Coalition of Education Leaders. He is a former superintendent from Arizona where he served 32 years... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Teacher's are Leaders Inside and Outside of the Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204
Teachers have limited professional opportunities outside of moving away from the classroom to the district or admin offices. Educators will learn about how they can take on new leadership roles that are supported by the state board, state legislature, and may even be able to apply for stipends funded by the legislature through matching grants. These new leadership roles allow a teacher to stay in the classroom while expanding their career to new opportunities. We will explore the Utah State board approved Roles of a Teacher Leader Guidebook and the various leadership opportunities for teachers.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: As long as they have a web enabled device it will be fine.

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 Stephan Seabury

Stephan Seabury

Teacher and Community Engagement Lead, Teacher Fellows, Providence Hall High School
Mr. Seabury believes a civically engaged teacher creates civically engaged students. His students learn not only the content of how our government works but are given opportunities in and outside of the classroom to meet with policy makers and practice the skills of civic engagem... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

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

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

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

Speakers
avatar for Kayla Towner

Kayla Towner

Senior Product Trainer, UEN - Utah Education Network
Kayla Towner is a Senior Product Trainer at the Utah Education Network (UEN) and, first and foremost, a passionate educator. She loves spending time with her family—playing soccer ⚽️, reading books 📚, hiking 🥾, and adventuring across Utah 🏔️. Kayla is dedicated to... Read More →
avatar for Kody Colvin

Kody Colvin

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

Matt Winters

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

2:50pm MDT

Current Problems in School Leadership: A Think Tank Experience
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
TBD

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 Jenna Olson

Jenna Olson

Principal, Monticello Elementary
Jenna Olson is the principal of Monticello Elementary, where she leads school improvement efforts focused on data-driven instruction and student growth. She has served on district leadership teams, mentored new principals, and is pursuing her EdD in Educational Leadership. Jenna is... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Teachers are leaders and should be the shapers our profession
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204
What we do as educators is often dictated by those who are not in our classrooms. We lead in our classrooms and should lead outside of them too. We'll work through how and when to connect with your policy makers from the local school district to the legislature and state board. Teachers will become familiar with the legislative website and practice communicating with their legislators. Teachers will leave having a better understanding of how educational policy works and the successes that can occur as they engage themselves.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Any web enabled device

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any web enabled device
Speakers
avatar for Stephan Seabury

Stephan Seabury

Teacher and Community Engagement Lead, Teacher Fellows, Providence Hall High School
Mr. Seabury believes a civically engaged teacher creates civically engaged students. His students learn not only the content of how our government works but are given opportunities in and outside of the classroom to meet with policy makers and practice the skills of civic engagem... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

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

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

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

Nathan Auck

Founder and Principal Consultant, Catalyst for Coherence
Nathan Auck has over two decades of educational experience, spanning roles in alternative school teaching and leadership to STEM Coordinator and Personalized Competency Based Learning Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. A Presidential Award winner and Albert Einstein... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 
Friday, July 17
 

9:50am MDT

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

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

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

Piper Riddle

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

9:50am MDT

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

Emergency Recovery Planning
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203
Being prepared to manage crisis is critically important. School administrators are familiar with Emergency Prepardness and Emergency Response Plans, however updates to R277-400 now require schools to adopt Emergency Recovery Plans begining July 1st.  In this 60-minute breakout session, Utah’s school safety experts will share an overview of Utah’s four core components of effective Emergency Recovery Planning, including Academics Recovery, Business Services Recovery, Physical and Structural Recovery, and Health, Wellbeing, and Behavioral Recovery. Recovery is rarely prioritized within emergency planning, and in the aftermath of a crisis, recovery efforts are largely met with a patchwork of disjointed actions. Participants will have a better understanding of why recovery planning improves the immediate, short-term, and long-term impacts on school communities. 

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 Scott Eyre

Scott Eyre

Emergency Recovery Planning in Schools, Utah Department of Health and Human Services
Scott Eyre serves as the School Based Mental Health Specialist for Utah’s School Safety Center. He works for the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Substance Use and Mental Health and is a member of the Education Advisory Board to the State Security Chief.  Scott’s... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am 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. |   School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:50am MDT

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

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

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

Amy Ahrens Terpstra

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

11:10am MDT

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

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

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

Jared Covili

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

11:10am MDT

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

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

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

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

Tony Campbell

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

11:10am MDT

Norms of Collaboration: Fostering Belonging On and Offline
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
In this presentation, we’ll explore the Seven Norms of Collaboration through the lens of digital collaboration and digital citizenship, empowering educators to foster respectful, inclusive, and effective communication—both in person and online. Participants will engage in thoughtful discussions and practical activities that highlight how these norms can strengthen relationships and build a sense of belonging within digital learning communities. Learn to create meaningful connections and foster collaborative cultures that thrive in both physical and virtual learning environments.

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 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
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Building Sustainable School Wellness Systems In Rural Communities
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
Rural educators and administrators are often asked to do more with less—balancing academic priorities, student behavior, mental health needs, and limited staffing. This session shares how Duchesne County School District built a practical, sustainable wellness system that supports both students and staff—without adding more to already full plates.Using the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) framework, this session focuses on how to integrate wellness into what schools are already doing. Instead of one more initiative, participants will learn how wellness can support attendance, improve behavior, increase student engagement, and ultimately strengthen academic outcomes.Attendees will walk away with strategies they can realistically implement in rural settings, including:How to build staff buy-in without overwhelming teachersSimple ways to form and sustain school wellness teamsUsing tools like the School Health Index (SHI) to guide decisions without extra workloadIdentifying small, high-impact “quick wins” that improve school cultureAligning wellness efforts with administrator priorities like test scores, attendance, and classroom behaviorThis session is designed for real school settings—where time, funding, and staffing are limited. Participants will leave with practical ideas, ready-to-use tools, and a clear path to start or strengthen wellness efforts in their own schools—without it feeling like “one more thing.”

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 Halee Ficklin

Halee Ficklin

School Wellness and Safety Coordinator, Northeastern Utah educational services
Halee Ficklin is a Mental Health Therapist (ACMHC) and District Wellness Advisor for Duchesne County School District in rural Utah. She leads district-wide efforts aligned with the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model, focusing on improving student mental health... Read More →
avatar for Mary Kathryn Curcio Stoddard

Mary Kathryn Curcio Stoddard

Epidemiologist/Evaluator, Utah Department of Health and Human Services
Mary Kathryn received her undergraduate degree in Health, Society, and Policy (2020) and Master of Public Health (2023) from the University of Utah. With an academic interest in human development, family studies, and community health, she assisted in several pediatric research studies... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm 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. |   School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 
From $50.00
2026 Utah Rural Schools Conference
From $50.00

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