Authors & Presenters

Hannah Polk, EdD, serves as a principal in a large metropolitan school district in Georgia. Her pursuit of excellence is evident as she advocates for high levels of learning for all students. In addition, she is passionate about guiding educators on paths to improve school culture, navigate difficult conversations, and enhance the overall effectiveness of their collaborative teams.

Kitty Porterfield is a consultant specializing in building school-community relationships using new technologies that support student learning. She spent nearly 30 years directing programs and communications efforts in three school divisions in northern Virginia.

Jon Potter, PhD, is a senior technical assistance specialist with American Institutes for Research. Dr. Potter has worked in education for more than 16 years, supporting school districts in developing and sustaining MTSS/RTI.

Karen Power is an educational presenter and a former teacher, principal, superintendent, and senior advisor for professional learning and leadership. Karen has implemented the PLC process both as a principal and as a superintendent, and for several years, she has supported collaborative work in schools to meet the needs of students.

Maren Powers is an award-winning teacher, instructional coach and author. Because of her experience as a practitioner, she has learned how to do the work successfully. Maren is passionate about helping other educators implement, coach, and lead through the PLC process.

Ken Proulx is the principal of Newport Middle School in North Carolina. He has 30 years of experience in public education and has spent 20 years as a building principal in elementary, middle, and high school.

Nathaniel Provencio is associate superintendent in Prince William County, Virginia. Under his leadership, Minnieville Elementary School was recognized as a Model Professional Learning Community and was the 2019 winner of the prestigious DuFour Award.

Kristine E. Pytash, PhD, is assistant professor of teaching, learning, and curriculum studies at Kent State University and codirector of the secondary Integrated Language Arts Teacher Preparation Program.