Instruction

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.

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.

Research consistently highlights the power of differentiated instruction, yet many educators struggle to implement personalized learning due to time constraints and workload demands. Generative artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT provide a game-changing solution, helping teachers design customized lessons efficiently and effectively.

With over 30 years experience in education, Jennifer Watt has worked with both new and experienced classroom teachers, supporting them to think about how they can share their knowledge, experience, and practices to establish professional communities and improve student learning.

Sam Futrell is a middle school social studies teacher at St. Michael’s Episcopal School in Richmond, Virginia. With over a decade of experience, she advocates for diversity, equity, and professional development in education.

Rebekah O’Dell teaches middle school English in Richmond, Virginia. She is the co-founder of the popular blog Moving Writers and coauthor of three books on writing instruction. Rebekah leads professional development workshops to educators across the country.

Jennifer Throndsen, PhD, is an education advisor and former director of teaching and learning for the Utah State Board of Education. With over 20 years of experience, she has served as a teacher, district office specialist, instructional coach, and state literacy coordinator.

Heidi Fuller teaches grades 7 and 8 for the Toronto District School Board. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and differentiated assessment practices across primary to intermediate levels.

Wendy Terro is a principal in the Toronto District School Board with experience as a mathematics coach, student work study teacher, and classroom educator. She is passionate about inquiry learning, assessment, equity, and amplifying student voice and choice.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly shaping the future of education, yet without critical engagement, it risks reinforcing systemic biases and widening technological inequities. Dr. Stacie Chana, author of Experimenting With AI: Activities, Discussions, and Prompts for the Classroom and Beyond, empowers educational leaders to approach AI with a lens of equity and cultural responsiveness, ensuring that all learners are protected and informed about the challenges and opportunities AI presents. Participants will explore practical strategies for identifying AI bias, implementing responsible AI-driven decision making, and developing policies that support ethical AI integration. This session will equip leaders with the knowledge needed to critically assess AI tools, advocate for fair and just technology use in schools, and guide students in becoming discerning users of AI.