Pre-Conference Workshops

Today’s students are growing up in an AI-saturated, distraction-heavy world that can leave them checked out in class. In this interactive, research-based workshop, veteran school psychologist, Dr. Rebecca Branstetter, will share practical, brain-based strategies for helping our generations of students re-engage with learning, strengthen executive functioning, and build resilience. Walk away with ready-to-use tools that foster focus, motivation, and authentic connection, even in the age of constant scroll.

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 of us 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 educators might adapt and change as we navigate the new terrain of an AI world. 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.

Discover strategies to mitigate student stress, constant distractions, and promote academic achievement amidst the challenges of AI. This workshop will offer practical neuroscience-based strategies to help students thrive academically. Drawing from classroom examples and interactive activities, you will learn how to foster self-regulated learning, build strong neural connections, and create a classroom that empowers students to thrive. You will leave with actionable strategies you can implement immediately to help students not only adapt to the challenges of AI, but also cultivate the resilience needed to navigate uncertainty and thrive in the new AI age.

Artificial intelligence is now part of classrooms, but how educators choose to use it will determine whether it strengthens or weakens student learning. This workshop will equip you with strategies for designing instruction that leverages AI to deepen critical thinking, rather than short-circuit it. Through case studies, group activities, and guided discussions, you will explore ways to integrate AI in ways that foster reasoning, creativity, and collaboration while addressing the risks of AI overreliance and ethical blind spots. 

In this interactive workshop, Dr. Monica Burns will guide you through practical, hands-on strategies for engaging students in all types of reading in the digital age. You will explore ways to use AI to design instructional materials and supplemental resources tailored to their students’ needs, and discover how EdTech tools can support differentiated instruction for a variety of reading levels and interests. This workshop will also highlight creative, tech-infused reading response activities that inspire students to think critically and communicate effectively. You will leave with a curated collection of digital tools that empower readers to engage as both consumers and creators, along with actionable ideas that can be implemented immediately.  Discover AI-powered tools to create customized instructional materials and supplemental resources that enhance reading engagement across different content areas and grade levels.