Student Engagement

Samantha K. Dykes is an instructional coach at Linn-Mar Community School District in Marion, Iowa, where she has been a driving force in inspiring innovation through professional development.

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.

Daniel L. Vollrath, EdD, has served in various teaching roles extending over 20 years and is currently a special education teacher at Hunterdon Central Regional High School in New Jersey.

Effective assessment systems enable teachers and students to make informed decisions that drive learning forward. In this webinar, author Katie White outlines how to plan and implement self-assessment strategies that foster student growth across all grade levels. From setup to goal setting and celebration, participants will explore the link between thoughtful assessment design, evidence analysis, and responsive decision making, all through a Canadian perspective. Join us to reflect on your own assessment systems and discover ways to create equitable, meaningful learning for every student.

Join assessment architects Nicole Dimich, Cassandra Erkens, and Tom Schimmer to learn and explore how to use assessment to build hope and efficacy and ensure learning and achievement for both educators and students.

In this webinar, Jay Jackson will teach educators how to use simple tools to foster deep and meaningful discussions about student self-awareness, integrity, purpose, passion, positivity, courage, commitment, and grit. This process will help students understand how they can be successful and happy by meeting challenges head-on.

Many of the concerns that educators have about student AI use involve students misrepresenting their learning and mastery by having these tools do work for them. In the Solution Tree Master Class: Educator AI, Paul explores ways that teachers can build classroom structures and culture that promote the ethical use of AI. As with any other critical skill, teachers need to become AI literate themselves and then guide students through the ways that generative AI tools can help them learn better, instead of taking them out of the learning process.

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.