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Dr. Jamie Lakey is a middle school principal dedicated to transforming her second campus into a Model PLC at Work® school. With deep expertise in instructional and assessment design, Dr. Lakey focuses on creating professional learning that leads to effective implementation and sustainable change.

Maria Nielsen helps teams see the big picture of a PLC and put it all together in a recurring cycle of collective inquiry. The 15-day challenge is a practical way to bring the PLC process to life.

In this full-day workshop, a Solution Tree expert will offer research-backed tools and tips for motivating and engaging all students. This workshop will equip teachers with time-tested and innovative strategies that reinvigorate their passion for teaching, allowing them to not only be highly effective but also happy.

Schools that truly want to “create lifelong learners” must understand the influence that their actions in the classroom have on realizing this mission. Creating lifelong learners depends on more than good intentions; it depends on intentional actions designed to encourage students to realize that they have the capacity to move their own learning forward regardless of life circumstances or experiences. While this truth is likely something that most teachers already believe, integrating practices that build student self-efficacy into daily instruction remains elusive in most classrooms. Creating lifelong learners happens only when teachers move from knowing about the importance of student self-efficacy to doing something about it.

Ryan Mahn is currently the assistant principal at a K–6 STEAM elementary school. He is passionate about fostering innovative learning environments, STEAM education, and transforming school culture to prepare students for a bright future.

Rebecca Williams, executive director of academic programs for Fulton County Schools, has over 15 years of instructional leadership experience. She led Webb Bridge Middle School in Alpharetta, Georgia, enhancing student achievement and transforming school culture.

Chrissy Jolly is an experienced educator passionate about transforming professional learning into meaningful, results-driven success. Guided by the principles of explore, engage, empower, she works collaboratively to identify needs, implement innovative strategies, and create sustainable systems for continuous improvement.

Dr. Lindsey Cochran, EdD, serves as the principal of Hillcrest Elementary in Morristown, Tennessee. Her leadership at Lincoln Heights Middle School earned Model PLC at Work® recognition and Tennessee Reward School status, highlighting her commitment to collaboration and student growth.

Obie Leff has more than 30 years of expertise in education and leadership. He currently serves as director and principal of Twin Rivers Charter School, a 2024 Model PLC at Work® and National Blue Ribbon School.

In this session, participants will explore innovative strategies and practical tools designed to challenge advanced learners through extended and personalized learning opportunities. Attendees will examine how flexible grouping, tiered assignments, and student choice can transform their classrooms into dynamic spaces that promote deep engagement and continuous learning. By embedding these strategies into their PLC processes, participants will leave equipped to elevate their team's impact on all students.