Instruction

Emily R. Peluso is a school-based speech-language pathologist (SLP) at Mildred B. Moss Elementary School of Metuchen School District. She is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and maintains the ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence.

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.

Natasha E. Gerstenschlager, PhD, is an efficacy research manager for Imagine Learning, where she studies the impact of educational products on student outcomes. Formerly, she taught mathematics courses in Kentucky and led professional development sessions on innovative, research-based teaching practices.

Matthew Rhoads, EdD, is an expert and innovator in educational technology and instructional strategy integration within online, blended, and traditional classroom settings. With a background in special education, he co-teaches regularly while coaching teachers and presenting professional development.

Rachel E. Morris is an instructional coach in the Linn-Mar Community School District in Marion, Iowa. Her expertise in instructional strategies, data analysis, and collaborative problem-solving has empowered educators to enhance their teaching practices and improve student outcomes.

In this workshop, instructional coaches and school leaders will explore the SIMPLE Approach. This comprehensive system combines The SIMPLE Shift and The SIMPLE Blueprint to build sustainable coaching cultures and promote teacher and student growth. Participants will learn how to implement The SIMPLE Shift to transform school culture and align coaching initiatives with school improvement goals while applying The SIMPLE Blueprint to create structured, data-driven coaching programs. Through collaborative activities, attendees will connect coaching practices with leadership strategies, ensuring alignment and support. By the end of the workshop, you will return to your school with practical tools and a strategic action plan for developing impactful coaching programs that drive lasting change.

Reboot, energize, and simplify the professional learning communities (PLC) process with The 15-Day Challenge! This practical guide brings the PLC process to life through seven simple unit design steps, providing a clear road map for creating a guaranteed and viable curriculum. Designed for results, this challenge helps educators navigate the PLC journey with clarity and impact.

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.