Student Engagement

Jason McKenna is an established author, seasoned educator, and pioneering strategist in STEM education. Jason’s commitment to innovative learning has created lasting impacts in education over his expansive twenty-year journey.

Lorraine Radice, PhD, is an educator, author, and presenter. She is currently an assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction in New York and teaches courses in childhood education and literacy at Hofstra University.

Margaret Lane Dunne, EdD, has over 20 years of teaching experience and is a faculty member at Great Neck South High School. She is also an author and a presenter who enthusiastically shares her insights about better ways to engage students.

Chepina Rumsey, PhD, is an associate professor of mathematics education at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI). In addition to teaching, Chepina leads professional development initiatives and contributes as a consultant for curriculum development companies.

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).

Liz Davis is currently the superintendent in York Region District School Board in Ontario. She is passionate about school improvement with a particular interest in resilience and working to improve outcomes for students in underperforming/underserved schools.

Kjell Fenn has been an educator since 1995 as a teacher, coach, and curriculum coordinator. He is currently an assistant professor with the Center for Teaching Excellence at Liberty University and an educational specialist with KFenn Education.

In this session, participants will explore innovative strategies and practical tools designed to challenge advanced learners through extended and personalized learning opportunities. Attendees will examine how flexible grouping, tiered assignments, and student choice can transform their classrooms into dynamic spaces that promote deep engagement and continuous learning. By embedding these strategies into their PLC processes, participants will leave equipped to elevate their team's impact on all students.

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.

With over 30 years experience in education, Jennifer Watt has worked with both new and experienced classroom teachers, supporting them to think about how they can share their knowledge, experience, and practices to establish professional communities and improve student learning.