Authors & Presenters

Dan Phelps serves as a dedicated middle school principal in northern Illinois. Dan is deeply committed to advocating for adult and children’s health and wellness, viewing it as a fundamental cornerstone for effective schooling and academic success.

Hannah Polk, EdD, serves as a principal in a large metropolitan school district in Georgia. Her pursuit of excellence is evident as she advocates for high levels of learning for all students. In addition, she is passionate about guiding educators on paths to improve school culture, navigate difficult conversations, and enhance the overall effectiveness of their collaborative teams.

Karen Power is an educational presenter and a former teacher, principal, superintendent, and senior advisor for professional learning and leadership. Karen has implemented the PLC process both as a principal and as a superintendent, and for several years, she has supported collaborative work in schools to meet the needs of students.

Douglas Reeves, PhD, is the author of more than 40 books and more than 100 articles on leadership and education. He has twice been named to the Harvard University Distinguished Authors Series and was named the Brock International Laureate for his contributions to education.

Anthony Reibel hails from Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Illinois and is the current assistant principal for teaching and learning. Anthony is also coauthor of several books: Proficiency-Based Assessment, Proficiency-Based Instruction, Proficiency-Based Grading in the Content Areas, and Pathways to Proficiency which explore the relationship between proficiency, pedagogy, and evidence-based grading.

Jose “JoJo” Reyes, EdD, is a dynamic award-winning leader and presenter for the students and staff he serves. Dr. Reyes is currently the associate director of program data for the 21st Century California School Leadership Academy.

Samuel Ritchie is a consultant with 35 years of experience as a practitioner. For most of those years, he was the director of technology at Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Illinois.

Veronica C. Rodriguez, EdD, is the curriculum and instruction world languages and dual language coordinator at Pasadena Independent School District. With more than 23 years in education, she has served as a teacher, counselor, assistant principal, and district-level administrator.

Ainsley B. Rose is an author, a presenter, and a consultant. An experienced elementary and secondary teacher and principal, he is former director of education for the Western Quebec School Board.

Tom Schimmer is an author and a speaker with expertise in assessment, grading, leadership, and behavioral support. He is a former district-level leader, school administrator, and teacher.