Authors & Presenters

Jody Guarino, EdD, is manager of the Teaching, Learning and Instructional Leadership Collaborative at the Orange County Department of Education and a School of Education lecturer at the University of California, Irvine (UCI).

Shanna K. Helmke has been a dedicated educator since 2011. Alongside her work as an instructional coach, she also serves as an adjunct professor at Mount Mercy University in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, furthering her commitment to fostering excellence in education.

Lauren Hobbs is manager of education strategy for Dell. She is a former teacher and experienced educator who has led, designed, and monitored teaching and learning initiatives throughout the educational landscape.

Katie Stover Kelly, PhD, is an associate professor of education at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. A former elementary teacher and literacy coach, her research interests include teacher preparation and development in the areas of literacy instruction and assessment.

Rebecca Knighton is a senior consultant with the Colorado Department of Education. She supports schools and districts in system-wide change, humanistic leadership, and social-emotional wellness for both students and staff.

Kathleen Kryza is a master teacher, consultant, and coach who has presented highly practical, brain-based, and inspirational workshops internationally for more than 25 years.

Brandon J. Larson is an award-winning athletic director, speaker, and leadership consultant. With over 20 years in education and athletics, he specializes in building leaders and strong cultures. He founded OakStrong Performance and Leadership to inspire lasting success in organizations.

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 A. Lenhardt, MEd, is a senior manager for professional services with Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, where she integrates her experience as a teacher and her research interest into equity and culturally responsive teaching with the professional learning she creates.

Mandy E. Lusk, PhD, is a lifelong special education practitioner who serves as an associate professor of special education at Clayton State University and has taught students of all ages with emotional and behavioral disorders across the United States.