Student Engagement

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.

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.

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.

Jennifer McCarty Plucker, EdD, is the director of learning and development and a literacy consultant at Mackin Educational Resources in Burnsville, Minnesota. Her current work with educators is grounded in an inquiry approach that puts students in the driver’s seat for learning.

James A. Nottingham is the creator of the Learning Pit®, author of 12 books, is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, and is listed in The Future 500, which lists the United Kingdom’s most forward-thinking and creative innovators.

Attendees will learn practical ways to involve multiple stakeholders in developing a productive and celebratory reading culture in schools and classrooms.

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.