Student Engagement

Sheldon L. Eakins, PhD, is an author, speaker, and founder of the Purposeful Teaching Academy. He helps educators create student-centered learning environments where all students thrive, specializing in leadership development, school culture, and practical teaching strategies.

Dr. Pattie Noonan is an associate research professor at the University of Kansas, where she centers her work on providing and evaluating professional development related to social-emotional learning.

Glen Pearsall is a former teacher leader at Eltham High School in Victoria, Australia, and board member of the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority. His work specializes in engaging instructional practice, positive classrooms, and workload reduction for teachers.

Gwendolyn Battle Lavert, PhD, is an internationally recognized literacy specialist. She has been an educator since 1974 and has experience as a teacher, district literacy specialist, and district administrator in a variety of school settings.

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.

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.

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.

Passionate about innovation, critical thinking, and deep learning, Shannon Simpson has been active in education for over 30 years, serving in various teaching roles and capacities.

Rachel E. Morris is an instructional coach in the Linn-Mar Community School District in Marion, Iowa. Her expertise in instructional strategies, data analysis, and collaborative problem-solving has empowered educators to enhance their teaching practices and improve student outcomes.

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.