Authors & Presenters

Jessica R. May, M.Ed., is a passionate educator and 2024 Colorado Teacher of the Year with over 25 years of experience. She specializes in building strong student relationships, classroom management, and making reading relevant across all content areas.

Mary Mazariegos has worked in a variety of education roles, including English teacher, instructional coach, ELL facilitator, secondary English curriculum coordinator, and principal. She was integral in the work at U.S. Grant High School in Oklahoma City.

Christy McAloney is mathematics Common Core lead teacher for Grossmont Union High School District in California. Her primary focus is leading teachers through the implementation of PLCs and the Common Core curriculum.

Christi McBride is the director of Hoosier Hills Career Center in Indiana. A former elementary and high school counselor, she works with students, staff, and community partners to provide positive, productive outcomes.

Ted McCain is coordinator of the Digital Arts Academy for Maple Ridge School District in Vancouver, British Columbia. He has taught at the high school level for more than 30 years.

Blane McCann, PhD, is the superintendent of Westside Community Schools in Omaha, Nebraska. Previously, Dr. McCann served as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and elementary and middle school principal, as well as executive director for K–8 instruction.

JoEllen McCarthy is a literacy expert, speaker, and author dedicated to integrating academic and affective learning through inclusive mentor texts. She supports educators and students by promoting joyful, student-centered literacy practices that connect reading, writing, and life skills.

Karla McCarty, EdD, has over 25 years of experience in K-12 education as a chief academic officer, director of district wide programs, school counselor, and teacher.

Emily McClain lived and led the work of professional learning communities as an elementary school teacher, school and district instructional coach, and district literacy specialist. She continues her passion by supporting districts and schools across the nation as a coach, presenter, and author.

Katherine McCluskey is the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning and Accountability at Glen Ellyn School District 41 in Illinois. A former K–12 teacher, she has worked with students and staff with a wide range of socioeconomic backgrounds.