Authors & Presenters

William M. Ferriter uses his 29 years of experience as a full-time classroom teacher to design professional development sessions for educators on topics ranging from establishing professional learning communities and effective systems of intervention to integrating meaningful differentiation, extension, and student-involved assessment opportunities into classroom instruction.

Evisha Ford, EdD, is the founding executive director of the iCan Dream Center in Illinois and a sought-after thought leader specializing in trauma-compassionate leadership, equity, and diverse learners. She is a former assistant superintendent and director of special education.

Karen Gazith, PhD, is a faculty lecturer in the Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology at McGill University, where she also serves as the graduate program director for the Certificate of Inclusive Education and for the Office of First Nations and Inuit Education.

Tammy Heflebower, EdD, is a highly sought-after school leader and presenter with vast experience in urban, rural, and suburban districts throughout the United States, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Great Britain, and the Netherlands.

Christopher Jenson, MD, is a senior adviser for public health concerns in school districts and educational operations. Dr. Jenson brings a unique set of skills, knowledge, and experiences to his advisory role.

Timothy D. Kanold, PhD, an award-winning educator and author, is former superintendent of Adlai E. Stevenson High School District 125, a Model PLC at Work® district in Lincolnshire, Illinois.

Joellen Killion serves as the senior advisor for Learning Forward. With more than 40 years’ experience, she leads, facilitates, and contributes to initiatives related to examining the link between professional learning and student learning.

Gail Markin is a counselor and teacher who has worked to support health and well-being across British Columbia. She began her career as a social worker, family counselor, and parent educator.

Kristen Nelson is an elementary school principal for the Capistrano Unified School District in California. She also serves as a college professor, leadership teacher, educational consultant, author, and leader of her district’s Spanish dual-language immersion programs.

Robin Noble is an author, consultant, and presenter with more than 30 years of experience in education. She has served as an elementary school principal, district instructional coach, middle school English teacher, and special education teacher.