Authors & Presenters

Sandi Novak, a consultant, has more than 30 years of experience in education and has served as an assistant superintendent, principal, and teacher.

Rebekah O’Dell teaches middle school English in Richmond, Virginia. She is the co-founder of the popular blog Moving Writers and coauthor of three books on writing instruction. Rebekah leads professional development workshops to educators across the country.

Alana Oif Telesman, PhD, is the director of the First Education Experience Program at The Ohio State University. She is also a member of the Council for Exceptional Children and has been selected as a doctoral research scholar.

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.

Jennifer Parker, EdD, brings over three decades of experience as an educator, school leader, county consultant, state project lead, and faculty member, with expertise spanning instructional technology, coaching, and school improvement. Today, as an educational consultant, she facilitates professional learning on instructional coaching, AI strategy and implementation, and data-driven continuous improvement. Her AI workshops focus on creating district-to-classroom policies that balance purpose with AI literacy, ethics, academic integrity, and data privacy.

Nina Parrish has more than 18 years of experience working as a special education teacher, education center director, speaker, and educational presenter. She is the cofounder and chief academic officer of Parrish Learning Zone in Virginia.

Gwen J. Pauloski, EdD, is a writer and educator specializing in adolescent literacy and pedagogy. She currently teaches in the University of Houston’s educator preparation program.

Angela Peery, EdD, is an experienced consultant who supports educators in designing curriculum, making data-driven instructional decisions, and improving student achievement.

Kathy Perez, EdD, is a professor emerita at Saint Mary’s College of California. She has extensive teaching experience as a general and special educator, literacy/ESL coach, administrator, and curriculum/staff-development coordinator.

Brian M. Pete comes from a family of educators—college professors, school superintendents, teachers, and teachers of teachers. He has a rich background in professional development and has worked with adult learners.