Authors & Presenters

Kevin Ryan, EdD, is the assistant superintendent for teaching and learning at North Shore School District 112 in Illinois. In his role, he is responsible for overseeing curriculum, instruction, and assessment to improve student growth and success.

Erin is a high school and continuing education teacher, curriculum writer, video producer, co-founder of PBL Path, and national project-based learning consultant and coach. Erin finds great meaning in guiding leaders’ and teachers’ identity and equity journeys, building assessment tools side by side with educators and students, and connecting project ideas to community partners.

Eric Saunders, EdD, serves as state assistant superintendent for district support with the Arkansas Department of Education. Previously, he was an assistant superintendent for Benton Public Schools in Benton, Arkansas.

Ryan L. Schaaf is an assistant professor of educational technology at Notre Dame of Maryland University and a faculty associate for the Johns Hopkins University School of Education.

Elliott Seif, PhD, is an educational presenter, author, school volunteer, and public school advocate. Previously he served as a social studies teacher, professor of education at Temple University, and the director of curriculum and instruction services for the Bucks County Intermediate Unit.

Brad Sever is an assistant principal at Carmel High School in Indiana. There, he has helped to create and sustain a successful instructional coaching program and grow the school’s International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Kathryn E. Sheridan is the early literacy and language director for Kildeer Countryside Community SD 96 in Illinois. She has previously served as a teacher, instructional coach, middle school assistant principal, and elementary principal.

Chris is a dynamic presenter and educator with over three decades of education experience. His vision and guidance have led schools to significant improvements in teacher efficacy and student learning.

Passionate about innovation, critical thinking, and deep learning, Shannon Simpson has been active in education for over 30 years, serving in various teaching roles and capacities.

William A. Sommers, PhD, of Austin, Texas, is a teacher, principal, author, and leadership coach. He has also been a consultant for cognitive coaching, adaptive schools, brain research, poverty, habits of mind, conflict management, and classroom management strategies.