Authors & Presenters

Eddie Velez is the former principal at Kennedy High School in Fremont, California. He specializes in building leadership capacity, building PLC culture, implementing RTI, and coaching collaborative teams. He has a genuine connection and care for every school he serves and is respected for his ability to meet schools “where they are” without compromising the end goal of creating equitable opportunities for all students.

Jamie Virga, EdD, has over 35 years of experience as a teacher, principal, professional developer, principal coach, and associate superintendent. He works to support schools and districts with implementing Professional Learning Communities at Work® and RTI at Work™ processes.

Ryan Vogler has over 20 years in education currently serving as the principal at Holmen Middle School in western Wisconsin. In his role, Ryan led Holmen Middle School to become an internationally recognized Model PLC at Work® school.

Dr. Derek Voiles is the assistant principal at Lincoln Heights Middle School in Morristown, Tennessee. With more than 15 years of experience in education, he emphasizes collaboration as a tool for better learning, particularly through professional learning communities.

Justin Wagner is the superintendent of the Woodbine Community School District and the IGNITE Pathways regional center. An award-winning administrator with nearly 30 years of experience in education and the military, he has served as teacher, assistant principal, principal, director, and superintendent.

Karly Ward is an experienced educational leader with over 17 years in teaching and administration. She specializes in visionary leadership, sustaining a healthy school environment, and ensuring system fidelity.

Laurie is a highly experienced teacher in both general education and special education and has embraced leadership roles throughout her career to exemplify best practices and improve student growth.

Dr. Jeff Washington is the principal of a Professional Learning Community (PLC) at Work® elementary school in Georgia. With a nearly 20-year career spanning various educational fields, his work has helped generate successful outcomes for schools and stakeholders.

Cindy Watters is currently the principal of Whittier Elementary School in Seattle Public Schools. With experience in large urban school districts and international schools, Cindy has worked and led in a wide variety of settings around the world.

Dr. Kevin Weck is a dedicated educational leader, currently serving as the principal of Westmont High School in Illinois. With a background as a former social studies teacher, he brings a deep understanding of classroom dynamics and instructional strategies.