Instruction

Samantha K. Dykes is an instructional coach at Linn-Mar Community School District in Marion, Iowa, where she has been a driving force in inspiring innovation through professional development.

Effective assessment systems enable teachers and students to make informed decisions that drive learning forward. In this webinar, author Katie White outlines how to plan and implement self-assessment strategies that foster student growth across all grade levels. From setup to goal setting and celebration, participants will explore the link between thoughtful assessment design, evidence analysis, and responsive decision making, all through a Canadian perspective. Join us to reflect on your own assessment systems and discover ways to create equitable, meaningful learning for every student.

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.

This session explores the Big 5 components of reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension. Educators will gain practical, evidence-based strategies, examine how neuroscience informs instruction, and learn how to apply these practices within a response to intervention (RTI) framework to support all learners.

Maureen Chapman is a lifelong educator with over 15 years of experience in the field. As a curriculum director, she managed professional development, curriculum, resources, student data, coaching, new teacher induction, accountability, and career education initiatives.

Join us at the Effective Instruction Institute to elevate your instructional practices and boost student achievement! Effective Tier 1 instruction allows students to thrive while minimizing the need for additional support. By mastering grade-level essential standards, students build a solid academic foundation that supports lifelong learning. At the Effective Instruction Institute, teachers will sharpen their instructional skills to ensure student achievement. Learn how to support students to and through proficiency by attending the Effective Instruction Institute.

Dr. Fisher and Dr. Frey along with John Nelson share the steps Chula Vista took to significantly impact student achievement. Learn how you can replicate their powerful results in your school.

Nathan L. Wear is the associate superintendent and chief academic officer of Linn-Mar CSD in Marion, Iowa. He has served as an elementary teacher and as an elementary and high school principal.

Beth Pandolpho is an instructional coach for grades 6–12, and she has taught English at the high school and college level for over 20 years. She is passionate about engaging in work that promotes equity and access for both teachers and students.

Tracey A. Hulen is an elementary and middle school mathematics and SEL specialist who has experience leading two professional learning communities in Fairfax County, Virginia, to Model PLC status.