Student Engagement

Glen Pearsall is a former teacher leader at Eltham High School in Victoria, Australia, and board member of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. His work specializes in engaging instructional practice, positive classrooms, and workload reduction for teachers.

Gwendolyn Battle Lavert, PhD, is an internationally recognized literacy specialist. She has been an educator since 1974 and has experience as a teacher, district literacy specialist, and district administrator in a variety of school settings.

Jennifer McCarty Plucker, EdD, is the director of learning and development and a literacy consultant at Mackin Educational Resources in Burnsville, Minnesota. Her current work with educators is grounded in an inquiry approach that puts students in the driver’s seat for learning.

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.

Brenda Duncan-Davis is an education consultant. She specializes in bridging education and industry through work-based learning opportunities, registered apprenticeship programs, and professional development in workplace readiness skills.

Christi McBride is the director of Hoosier Hills Career Center in Indiana. A former elementary and high school counselor, she works with students, staff, and community partners to provide positive, productive outcomes.

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.

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.

Join assessment architects Nicole Dimich, Cassandra Erkens, and Tom Schimmer to learn and explore how to use assessment to build hope and efficacy and ensure learning and achievement for both educators and students.

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.