Pre-Conference Workshops

Thursday, February 20

8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

Cost per person: $199
By advance registration only.
Add $30 fee if you are not attending the conference.

All pre-conference workshops will be offered LIVE in San Francisco only. There is no virtual option.

1. Better Learning Through Intentional Teaching: A Framework for Engaged, Collaborative, and Independent Learning

In this workshop, John Almarode will dig deeper into ways to equip students with what they need to be collaborative, independent, and self-directed learners. On a day-to-day level, learn how to deliver lessons purposefully planned to incorporate the science of learning, guided instruction, collaborative learning, and independent learning to improve engagement. You will learn tips and tools for classroom implementation, including checklists for planning and assessment; advice on feedback, homework, group work, self-directed learning; answers to frequently asked questions; and examples that align to standards. No matter what year level or subject you teach, this workshop will guide you one how to help students expand their capacity for engaged, independent, successful, and long-lasting learning.

John T. Almarode, PhD , Professor of Education, James Madison University; Co-Editor, Teacher Educator Journal; Co-Author, The Mathematics Playbook (2024), The Teacher Clarity Playbook, Grades K-12 (2024), The Early Childhood Education Playbook (2022), How Tutoring Works: Six Steps to Grow Motivation and Accelerate Student Learning (2021), How Learning Works (2021), Clarity for Learning (2018), From Snorkelers to Scuba Divers: Making the Elementary Science Classroom a Place of Engagement and Deep Learning (2017), Visible Learning for Science (2017), and Captivate, Activate, and Invigorate the Student Brain in Science and Math, Grades 6–12 (2013)

2. Transforming Teaching: Shaping and Strengthening Today's Classrooms Culturally, Emotionally, and Academically

This workshop will explore the multifaceted needs of our diverse student body across three key areas: emotional well-being, cultural awareness, and academic achievement. These interconnected areas are essential for nurturing the whole student, ensuring they not only survive but thrive in our classrooms and beyond. By gaining a nuanced understanding of these areas and incorporating brain-based teaching strategies and strengths that support both mindsets and skill sets, you will gain practical insights into integrating these components into your teaching. The strategies presented are practical and actionable, empowering you to create an inclusive and transformative classroom environment where every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

Kathleen M. Kryza, MA, Master Teacher; CIO, Infinite Horizons; Co-Author, Transformative Teaching: Changing Today's Classrooms Culturally, Academically, and Emotionally (2015), Developing Growth Mindsets in the Inspiring Classroom (2011), Inspiring Elementary Learners (2008), Inspiring Middle and Secondary Learners (2007), and Differentiation for Real Classrooms (2009), and MaryAnn Brittingham, MS, Professional Development Consultant; Graduate Course Instructor, State University of New York at New Paltz; Co-Author, Transformative Teaching: Changing Today's Classrooms Culturally, Academically, and Emotionally (2015); Author, Motivating the Unmotivated (2008), Dealing With Difficult Parents: Powerful Strategies for Parent/Teacher Interactions (2005), and Respectful Discipline: Your Guide to Effective Classroom Management (2003)

3. Teaching With AI: How Should Educators Respond to the AI Revolution?

The A.I. Revolution is here. For some, it’s exciting. For others, it feels terrifying. Still others feel baffled and confused by it. Many educators feel a mix of all three emotions. But one thing is clear. It’s here and it’s not going away. In this workshop, you will explore how to adapt and change as you navigate the new terrain of an AI world. You will explore the human skills students will need in a world of smart machines. Ultimately, you will be reminded of the hope and humanity we continue to have in a time of epic change.

John T. Spencer, EdD, Assistant Professor of Education, George Fox University; Technology Specialist; Former 6-8 Grade Teacher; Co-Founder/ Tech Developer, “Write About”; Author, The A.I. Roadmap (2023) and Vintage Innovation: Leveraging Retro Tools and Classic Ideas to Design Deeper Learning Experiences (2019); Co-Author, New Teacher Mindset (2024), Empower: What Happens When Students Own Their Learning (2017), and LAUNCH: Using Design Thinking to Boost Creativity and Bring Out the Maker in Every Student (2016)

4. Hopeful Schools: Building Hope and Resilience in Ourselves and Our Students

Explore the essential elements of hope, mindset, grit, and resilience in this transformative workshop. Learn how these interconnected qualities empower individuals to overcome challenges and thrive in a changing world, and gain practical strategies for helping others—children, friends, colleagues—develop this extraordinary strength.

Kevin D. Washburn, EdD, Educator; Experienced Teacher from Elementary and Graduate Classrooms; Executive Director of Clerestory Learning; Co-Founder/Co-Owner of Make Way for Books; Developer of the Architecture of Learning instructional design model, the Foundations & Frameworks instructional reading program, and the Writer’s Stylus instructional writing program; Author, Uprise: Building Resilience in Ourselves and Others (2024) and The Architecture of Learning: Designing Instruction for the Learning Brain (2010)

5. Awe in Education: Creating Learning Environments That Inspire, Motivate, and Heal

Join Drs. Amy Eva and Vicki Zakrzewski from the Greater Good Science Center's Education team in exploring how to apply the cutting-edge science of awe in classrooms and schools. Learn how awe enhances academic learning, motivation, and student and teacher well-being—and how you can create inspiring educational environments, filled with curiosity, discovery, and "awesome" possibility. You will learn about the eight wonders of awe; explore how awe benefits our brains and bodies; and find real-life examples and practices to help you bring more inspiration, meaning, and purpose to your students.

Vicki Zakrzewski, PhD, Education Director, Greater Good Science Center, University of California, Berkeley; Former Teacher and School Administrator; and Amy L. Eva, PhD, Associate Education Director; Education Content Specialist, Greater Good Science Center, University of California, Berkeley; Former Teacher; Author, Teaching With Hope: Reducing Burnout and Deepen Your Well-Being (2024); Co-Author, Surviving Teacher Burnout: A Weekly Guide to Build Resilience, Deal With Emotional Exhaustion, and Stay Inspired in the Classroom (2022) and "The Mindful Teacher: Translating Research Into Daily Well-Being" (2016, The Clearing House)