Authors & Presenters

JR Entsminger, EdD, is an esteemed elementary school principal in Burbank, Illinois. He is also known as a prominent speaker, having presented throughout the United States on topics ranging from responsive circles and conflict management to integrated project-based learning.

Kjell Fenn has been an educator since 1995 as a teacher, coach, and curriculum coordinator. He is currently an assistant professor with the Center for Teaching Excellence at Liberty University and an educational specialist with KFenn Education.

Steve Gruenert, PhD, has been at Indiana State University since 2002 teaching educational leadership courses and doing research in the field of school culture and climate.

John Hannigan, EdD, is an author and speaker who has served in education for over 20 years as a teacher, instructional coach, principal, and county office leadership coach. His expertise includes RTI at Work™, PLC at Work®, MTSS, PBIS, restorative practices, social-emotional learning, and more.

Jessica Djabrayan Hannigan, EdD, works with US schools and districts to design and implement effective social-emotional and behavioral systems. Her expertise includes RTI, PLCs, MTSS, PBIS, restorative practices, social-emotional learning, and more.

Tammy Heflebower, EdD, is a highly sought-after school leader and presenter with vast experience in urban, rural, and suburban districts throughout the United States, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Great Britain, and the Netherlands.

Tom Hierck has been an educator since 1983, and his career has spanned all grade levels and many roles in public education. He has presented to schools and districts across North America with a message of celebration for educators seeking to make a difference in the lives of students.

Yvette Jackson, EdD, is a former teacher who served New York City Public Schools as director of gifted programs and executive director of instructional and professional development.

Alex Kajitani holds the title of California Teacher of the Year and has been a top-four finalist for National Teacher of the Year. He is a highly sought-after speaker and a top authority on engagement, building relationships, and teacher leadership.

Jennifer A. Lenhardt, MEd, is a senior manager for professional services with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, where she integrates her experience as a teacher and her research interest into equity and culturally responsive teaching with the professional learning she creates.