Authors & Presenters

Bo Ryan is principal of the Ana Grace Academy of the Arts Elementary Magnet School in Bloomfield, Connecticut. He is passionate about building and sustaining professional learning communities (PLCs) and has led two different schools to Model PLC at Work® certification.

Julie A. Schmidt has served as a school psychologist, Director of Student Services, Associate Superintendent of Student Services, and recently retired from Kildeer Countryside CCSD 96 in Illinois after serving as Superintendent of Schools for 13 years. The district began its professional learning communities (PLC) journey nearly 25 years ago, and all seven schools have been recognized as Model PLC at Work^® schools. She is passionate about ensuring ALL students have an opportunity to thrive and reach their goals.

Sarah Schuhl specializes in professional learning communities, mathematics, assessment, school improvement, and RTI. She has been a secondary mathematics teacher, high school instructional coach, and K–12 mathematics specialist.

W. Richard Smith is former deputy superintendent of Sanger Unified School District in California. He has been involved in public education for more than 37 years.

Bob Sonju is an award-winning educational leader, author, and speaker known for his energetic and passionate commitment to making the work of schools and teacher teams simple, doable, and impactful.

With over 30 years of experience in K–12 education, author and education expert Jeanne Spiller is an associate with Solution Tree, supporting schools and districts through workshops, coaching, and collaborative initiatives to enhance instruction, foster innovation, and promote equity.

Timothy S. Stuart, EdD, is head of school for International Community School of Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. In his previous role as executive director of strategic programs at the Singapore American School, he served as the chief architect for research and development and supported strategic school reform.

Barbara Tasber is the director of learning and continuous improvement for Windsor Central School District in Windsor, New York. As an educator and leader with over 20 years of experience, she is instrumental in leading the professional learning community process throughout the district.

Dr. Aisha Thomas has been an educator for over 20 years, serving in all levels of school leadership at the middle school and elementary levels. She has helped lead two schools to receive the National Blue Ribbon Award.

Katy Sue Traicoff is an experienced educational leader with a deep understanding of the value of collaborative decision making within professional learning communities and a passion for fostering collaborative environments and supporting the professional development of educators.