NCED Connect Symposium 2025: Full Schedule

Welcome to the NC ED Connect Symposium!

arrow_back View All Dates

9:00am EST

Soaring to New Heights: AI-Powered Time Savers for Educators LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST

In "Soaring to New Heights: AI-Powered Time Savers for Educators," participants will embark on a journey into the world of AI technologies designed to enhance teaching and save them precious time! Various AI platforms will be modeled for teachers and "plearn" time will be given for them to test out the platforms independently. Tasks cards will be used to guide their exploration. The Prompt Engineer Framework from the book "The AI Classroom" will also be showcased with time for participants to try it out.

Speakers

Charles Elliott

Instructional Technology Facilitator, Franklin County Schools

I am an Instructional Technology Facilitator (ITF) for Franklin County Schools. Prior to being an ITF, I taught high school English for 3 years in Ohio before moving to NC to teach 8th grade ELA at Bunn Middle School, where I was one of the three finalists for FCS Teacher of the Year... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Room 25 - Biltmore AB (Level 1)

Coaches and SLMC Educators

9:00am EST

From Concept to Broadcast: Building a Student-Centered School News Program LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST

Room 43 - Pinehurst (Level 3)

Participants will learn the basics of starting a student-centered recorded news broadcast that can be used at all grade levels. Examples of resources to use to record and edit will be shared. Both best practices and attendee input will be used in deciding what to include in a news broadcast as well as how to use these recommendations. Participants will learn how to utilize AI for screenwriting and creating images. Once the basics have been presented, attendees will have the opportunity to work with a group to create their own news broadcast. They will be provided with well-known children’s books in order to create “breaking news” based off of a chosen book. The broadcast will also include birthday announcements, lunch menu, special announcements, etc. that pertain to the book. These broadcasts will be shared with the group, which will demonstrate different ways to share the video file.

Speakers

Kelley Gerstenmier

Instructional Technology Facilitator, Franklin County Schools

My name is Kelley Gerstenmier. I’ve worked in public education for 18 years. For most of my career, I taught upper elementary science. After enjoying my time as a Digital Literacy Coach at the elementary level, I moved into the Instructional Technology Facilitator role in Franklin... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Room 43 - Pinehurst (Level 3)

Educators Coaches and SLMC

9:00am EST

100% Engagement with Curipod LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST

Room 55 - Arrowhead AB (Level 3)

Spark creativity and dynamic discussions to make literacy learning rigorous and fun. In this session, discover how to leverage AI to plan creative full classroom experiences and provide immediate feedback for students on their writing that drives achievement (increase ‘meets’ and ‘masters’ by 17%). Then, Curipod’s insight reports will capture classroom-wide and individual progress, providing valuable data to inform and refine instructional strategies. Learn to use Curipod’s classroom management tools to ensure all students are engaged.

Speakers

Eirik Berre

Co-founder & COO, Curipod

Hey there, I'm Eirik, and education is my life's passion. I was born with a Hermione reflex, if someone asks question my hand shoots off into the air. I loved school, and I’m a big geek! I have worked as an educator in both Norway and Mozambique, and I love teaching. The best side... Read More →

Tracy Purdy

Director of Professional Learning, Curipod

An educator at heart, Tracy Purdy is passionate about empowering teachers to spark curiosity and inspire learning in every classroom. With expertise in using technology to enhance education, she works to bridge the gap between creativity and rigor, helping students build critical... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Room 55 - Arrowhead AB (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC

9:00am EST

We'll Do You One Better LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST

Room 51 - Colony A (Level 3)

Are you purchasing class sets of magazines, an online encyclopedia, or subscriptions for ebooks? Are you seeing students and teachers Googling research topics? If so, join us and I’ll do you one better! During this session, we’ll show you how to save your school/district funds and showcase best practices for research. We will collectively tap into a plethora of digital resources available to all North Carolina K-13 public school units.

Speakers

Jill Darrough

Section Chief Digital Learning Programs, NCDPI

Jill Darrough is the Digital Learning Programs Section Chief for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Her role is to support public school units, PSUs, and schools as they operationalize the North Carolina Digital Learning Plan. She has an amazing team of regional... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Room 51 - Colony A (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC

9:00am EST

Multilingual Learner (ML/EL) Data in Infinite Campus LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST

Room 19 - Guilford G (Level 1)

Join us for an informative session designed to introduce educators and administrators to the powerful features of Infinite Campus for managing Multilingual Learner (ML) data. As we navigate the complexities of supporting diverse student populations, understanding how to effectively utilize data is essential for fostering academic success.In this session, participants will:Explore Current ML Data Features: We’ll begin with an overview of existing ML data management tools within Infinite Campus. Upcoming Enhancements: Get a sneak peek at future enhancements and features coming to Infinite Campus that will further support ML data management. We’ll outline planned updates and improvements designed to make data more accessible and actionable for educators.Interactive Q&A: Finally, we’ll open the floor for questions and discussions, allowing participants to share their experiences and insights regarding ML data management.Whether you’re new to Infinite Campus or looking to deepen your understanding of its capabilities, this session will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively manage and utilize ML data in your educational setting. Together, we can create a more inclusive and responsive learning environment for all students!

Speakers

Susan Walz

ML/Title III Education Consulatant, NC Department of Public Instruction

I am a dedicated Education Consultant specializing in Multilingual Learners (ML)/Title III initiatives at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. With a decade of experience as an ESL teacher, I brought my passion for MLs to DPI in 2018. In my current role at DPI, I collaborate... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 9:50am EST
Room 19 - Guilford G (Level 1)

Leadership NCSIS NCSIS Educators Coaches and SLMC

9:00am EST

Blending for Success: Leveraging the Internet to Increase Student Engagement LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:50am EST

Room 24 - Morehead (Level 1)

In this interactive session, participants will explore the power of blended learning to increase student engagement. Topics will include the 3 dimensions of engagement, blended learning strategies, and blended learning success stories. Participants will have an opportunity to network with other educators and begin designing a blended learning activity to use immediately! At the conclusion of the session, participants will be equipped with practical tools and innovative ideas for blended learning implementation.

Speakers

Tericia Eller

Regional Virtual Instruction Consultant, NC Department of Public Instruction, Office of Virtual Instruction Services

Tericia Eller is a highly experienced educator with 26 years of teaching and leadership experience in the education industry. She has worked as an English teacher for middle school, high school, and college students, and has also served in various capacities including Instructional... Read More →

Iris Ellington

Virtual Iinstruction, NC Department of Public Instruction

Iris Ellington is a highly experienced educator with 35+ years of teaching and leadership experience in the education industry. She has worked as an elementary and middle school teacher, Reading Specialist, magnet coordinator, district after-school program coordinator, and various... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:50am EST
Room 24 - Morehead (Level 1)

Educators Coaches and SLMC

9:00am EST

Cracking the Learning Code with Depth of Knowledge LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:50am EST

Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Turn the key to a deeper understanding of Depth of Knowledge (DOK). In this session, we’ll explore what DOK is and what it isn’t, breaking down the different levels and common misconceptions. Learn why DOK is essential for student learning and how it can transform your teaching practice through aligning standards, assessments, lesson plans, and activities to Depth of Knowledge.

Speakers

Lauren Boucher

Consultant, NCDPI

Lauren Boucher has been in public education for over 18 years. She has taught 3rd grade, gifted education in grades K-8, and was a district level Digital Teaching and Learning Coach for more than 8 years. She joined the NCDPI as the Southeast Digital Teaching & Learning Consultant... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:50am EST
Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC

9:00am EST

GitHub: Who/What/When/Where/Why/How LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:50am EST

Room 19 - Guilford D (Level 1)

GitHub is one of the most widely used repostories in the world for storing code. But it's so much more powerful than just "storage" - GitHub powers the ability to store code, track changes, host websites, manage workflows, and even integrate with Canvas - easily and for FREE!Across the state, GitHub is being used to store queries and reports for Infinite Campus, support classrooms, and even host policies and procedure documents.In this session, we will explore the various use cases for GitHub, get started with how to use the tool, and explore the various features available. You'll learn how to log in, upload content, and share it with others.

Speakers

Mark Samberg

Chief Technology Officer, NCDPI

Mark currently works as Chief Technology Officer at DPI, managing our internal systems and operations. Prior to joining DPI, Mark has worked previously as a teacher, technology facilitator, district CTO, and researcher across North Carolina.

Thursday January 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:50am EST
Room 19 - Guilford D (Level 1)

NCSIS NCSIS Educators Leadership Coaches and SLMC

10:00am EST

Infinite Campus: Navigating the Teaching Center LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST

Room 68 - Victoria Ballroom B (Level 3)

Participants will explore the Teaching Center in Infinite Campus and navigate through the available tools that include curriculum, student information, and gradebook. Participants will get an overview of creating assignments, resources, quizzes in the curriculum tool. The student tool includes seating charts, grades, student groups, and academic performance. Participants will leave this session with a solid understanding of the Teaching Center along with resources for future use with Infinite Campus.

Speakers

Erin Wolfhope

Instructional Technology Facilitator, NCDPI Educator on Loan from Burke County Public Schools

Erin is an experienced public school educator that strives to build connections through relationships in order to lead meaningful learning experiences. She's a wife, mom, and doctoral student. She's a curious introvert that loves to talk about books.

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Room 68 - Victoria Ballroom B (Level 3)

Educators

10:00am EST

Stronger Together: Building Collaborative Bridges Between Librarians and Teachers LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST

Room 42 - Turnberry (Level 3)

In an era where information literacy and collaborative learning are paramount, the role of the school librarian as a partner in education is more critical than ever. This session will explore effective strategies for librarians to collaborate with teachers, fostering a culture of partnership that enhances student learning outcomes. Participants will leave with insights into establishing collaborative networks and leveraging those relationships into sustainable partnerships that empower students to master their learning outcomes. They also will discuss edtech tools that can be easily tailored for high school educators across a variety of content areas.

Speakers

Colleen Pinyan

School Library Media Coordinator, Northwest Guilford High School

My name is Colleen Pinyan. I have been a School Library Media Coordinator for 13 years and currently serve the students at Northwest High School.I arrived at Northwest High School five weeks before the pandemic. Soon after schools shut down, I realized that the K-12 setting would... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Room 42 - Turnberry (Level 3)

Educators Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC Leadership

10:00am EST

Digital Page Turners: Unlock the Power of NC Kids Digital Library LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST

Room 51 - Colony A (Level 3)

Looking for innovative ways to engage young readers? Join us for an interactive session showcasing the NC Kids Digital Library: a treasure trove of eBooks, audiobooks, and Read-Alongs designed for grades K through 8. Discover how upgrading to the Libby app can transform your family’s digital reading experience with user-friendly features like offline reading, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, and seamless management across devices, including Kindle. Whether you’re planning a Title I Night or a Parent Lunch & Learn, this session equips you with the tools and tips to help families dive into the world of digital reading. Bring a tablet or e-reader, public library card, and your Kindle account information if you'd like to "plearn" with us.

Speakers

Jill Darrough

Section Chief Digital Learning Programs, NCDPI

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Room 51 - Colony A (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Coaches and SLMC

10:00am EST

Empowering Student Success: Harnessing Schoolnet Data to Drive Learner Investment LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST

Room 65 - Sandpiper (Level 3)

This session will show the student view of the Schoolnet platform through their data dashboard. The goal of this session is to show how students can not only view their data but use it to create data notebooks/portfolios to be an active part of their learning progress.

Speakers

Rebecca Stokes

Instructional Improvement Systems Consultant, NCDPI

Rebecca works at DPI as a Professional Development Specialist and Product manager for Schoolnet. She has been in education for 16 years serving as a Classroom Teacher, Digital Literacy Coach, and Instructional Technology Facilitator. Rebecca is passionate about helping classroom... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Room 65 - Sandpiper (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership

10:00am EST

Knowledge is Just a Click a Way LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST

Room 25 - Biltmore AB (Level 1)

TAP, TAP, TAP, a few simple clicks, a video here and image there and top it off with an eBook. It’s no telling what you’ll come across in your research journey when you’re in the midst of your project with EXPLORA!

Speakers

Audrey M. Long

Digital Subscription Project Manager, NCDPI

Digital Subscriptions Product ManagerEBSCO and BritannicaDigital Teaching and LearningDepartment of Public Instruction

Thursday January 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:50am EST
Room 25 - Biltmore AB (Level 1)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

11:00am EST

Ignite Curiosity with Teach Britannica LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST

Room 55 - Arrowhead AB (Level 3)

As an educator, your time is extremely valuable and free time is a rare commodity! Why not save the time and money you could spend tracking down high-quality digital resources and let Britannica support you! Meet Teach Britannica, a new open-access hub, full of mini-lessons, instructional strategies, graphic organizers and research tools support classroom instruction. Teach Britannica is available to all educators, and pairs wonderfully with all the Britannica resources available to North Carolina educators through NCEDCloud. Join this lively session to test drive these resources, engage in productive discussion with colleagues, and learn how to support learners of all ages through Britannica.

Speakers

Chris Heintz

Director, Customer Experience, Britannica Education

Chris began his career in education as a high school Social Studies teacher in Chicago. Since then, he's served in various roles in education management helping teachers navigate the complex world of assessments, data, and curriculum & instruction. Throughout it all, he's been dedicated... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST
Room 55 - Arrowhead AB (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

11:00am EST

Empowering Student Success: Harnessing Schoolnet Data to Drive Learner Investment LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST

Room 65 - Sandpiper (Level 3)

Speakers

Rebecca Stokes

Instructional Improvement Systems Consultant, NCDPI

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST
Room 65 - Sandpiper (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership

11:00am EST

Let's Get Muddy! LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST

Room 51 - Colony A (Level 3)

Do you want your students to work collaboratively instead of having one or two team members shouldering to bulk of the work? Learn first hand the difference between group work and a collaborative team. Delve into design challenges that demonstrate these methods. Participants will harness their abilities to work as a truly collaborative team. Join us to build today and utilize in your classroom tomorrow!

Speakers

Jill Darrough

Section Chief Digital Learning Programs, NCDPI

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST
Room 51 - Colony A (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC

11:00am EST

Car Rider Line - There is an App for That! LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST

Room 20 - Carolina (Level 1)

Managing a school car rider line can be a logistical challenge for elementary schools, often resulting in delays, frustration, and safety concerns for students, parents, and staff. This session will showcase an innovative approach to solving these issues: designing and implementing a custom app utilizing Google Sheets, Awesome Table, and Google’s AppSheet to streamline the process.Participants will explore:The challenges associated with traditional car rider line systems.Create a Car Rider App for use at schoolUtilize a template Google Sheet, AppSheet, and Awesome Table to create the app.Attendees will leave with a usable web-based all to transform their car rider line experience for students, teachers, and parents/guardians.

Speakers

Brandy Moody

ITF, Burke County Public Schools

Brandy Moody is an instructional technology facilitator with 21 years of experience in integrating innovative technologies into elementary school environments.

Erin Wolfhope

Instructional Technology Facilitator, NCDPI Educator on Loan from Burke County Public Schools

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST
Room 20 - Carolina (Level 1)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

11:00am EST

Slide Smarter, Not Harder: The Art of Presentation Design LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST

Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Tired of creating slides that bore your audience? Learn to design presentations that are not only visually appealing but also highly effective. Discover the secrets to creating clear, concise, and compelling presentations that will leave a lasting impact.

Speakers

Jennifer Graham

North Central Regional DTL Consultant, NCDPI DTL

Jennifer served as a public educator for 29 years, holding roles such as teacher, instructional coach, and professional development facilitator. In 2023, Jennifer joined the NCDPI as an Innovative Learning Catalyst, and now serves as the North Central DTL Consultant. Her dedication... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST
Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

11:00am EST

If I Knew Then, What I KNOW Now: How Collaboration Can Conquer the Fear of Transition LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST

Room 19 - Guilford D (Level 1)

This session will provide suggestive practices to those individuals who are either in Phase I or entering Phase II with helpful tips on user management for all user groups, quick tricks, and support for things to help ease the stress of implementation.

Speakers

Brian A. Jones

Executive Director of Student Information, Johnston County Public School

I have worked with Johnston County Public Schools for 17 years and have served in many capacities during that time.

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 11:50am EST
Room 19 - Guilford D (Level 1)

NCSIS NCSIS Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC Educators

11:00am EST

R.E.M.I.X.: Dropping the Digital Beat on Future Ready Learning LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:50pm EST

Room 42 - Turnberry (Level 3)

Successful curriculum design is all about remixing traditional teaching with cutting-edge technology. In this dynamic, high-energy session, participants will learn how to blend curriculum standards and outcomes with interactive digital tools and AI, creating engaging, student-centered lessons. Just like a DJ remixing a track to create a new sound, this session will show you how to take familiar content and transform it by layering in multimedia, interactivity, and collaboration. The result? Lessons that keep students engaged, foster active learning, and align with the future-ready competencies outlined in the NC Portrait of a Graduate.

Speakers

Gladys Johnson

Innovation and Strategic Development Facilitiator, Cumberland County Schools

Gladys serves as the Innovation and Strategic Development Facilitator for Cumberland County Schools in Fayetteville, NC. With a commitment to revolutionizing teaching and learning, she focuses on innovation, creativity, and impactful educational experiences. Over her 21-year career... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:50pm EST
Room 42 - Turnberry (Level 3)

Educators Coaches and SLMC

11:00am EST

JB and the Quest for Knowledge: Gamifying Your Classroom LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:50pm EST

Room 23 - Blandwood (Level 1)

Setoff on an adventure into the Kingdom of Boyd. King Boyd will share with you the way to gamify your classroom for a learning experience like no other. Attendees will be introduced to a classroom setting that allows students to grow and thrive in a way that encourages them to use their strengths to apply their learning. Gamification begins with the terminology, theming your classroom and decorating. I will share how my class takes on a medieval theme as the students enter the castle of a king and work their way up the social hierarchy of the Middle Ages. We will also look at ways that you could theme your classroom in other subjects. Adventurers who join will go on Quests, complete Challenges, & Boss Battles all while leveling up as if they were playing a Role Playing Game. Quests consist of choices to create and apply their learning in a variety of ways such as decorating phone cases and Stanley cups, creating Newspapers, Magazine Covers, Social Media Pages and many more activities to choose from. They do these activities with things relevant to the content they are learning in a digital format. Participants will walk through a week in the classroom and be active participants in the session. They will have an opportunity to explore digital tools like ChatGPT and Brisk teaching to help enhance any lesson and create products that they can take back to their classroom to use. Participants will walk away with a packet of resources to implement in their own learning spaces.

Speakers

Joshua Boyd

6th Grade SS Teacher, Craven County Schools

As a teacher for 24 years I have worked to develop a system that works for all students. I have taught in grades 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8 in many different subject areas. I have been teaching 6th grade SS the past 3 years and loving every minute.

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:50pm EST
Room 23 - Blandwood (Level 1)

Educators Leadership

11:00am EST

Understanding and Using NCEES for Teacher Growth LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:50pm EST

Room 66 - Tanglewood (Level 3)

NCEES was originally designed to provide a pathway to growth. How can we use the process to impact teacher success and student achievement? In this session, we will examine how the rubric is constructed and how to use post-conference sessions to address teachers' and administrators' concerns. We will also examine what that post-conference should look like and how to plan for those difficult conversations while providing actionable feedback.

Speakers

Patricia Coldren

Director of Recruitment, Retention, and PD, Lee County Schools

Patricia Coldren is the Director of Recruitment, Retention, and Professional Development for Lee County Schools, with 27 years of experience as a teacher, administrator, and district curriculum coach. A proud alum of the same district where she now works, she attended grades 1-12... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:50pm EST
Room 66 - Tanglewood (Level 3)

Leadership Leadership Educators

12:00pm EST

Gradebook Essentials in Infinite Campus LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 12:00pm - 12:50pm EST

Room 62 - Augusta A (Level 3)

This session will focus on understanding the features available in the Infinite Campus Gradebook. Highlights include creating assignment categories and weights, creating and scoring assignments, importing grades from Google Classroom or Canvas, and more.

Speakers

Erin Wolfhope

Instructional Technology Facilitator, NCDPI Educator on Loan from Burke County Public Schools

Thursday January 23, 2025 12:00pm - 12:50pm EST
Room 62 - Augusta A (Level 3)

Educators

12:00pm EST

Slide Smarter, Not Harder: The Art of Presentation Design LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 12:00pm - 12:50pm EST

Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Speakers

Jennifer Graham

North Central Regional DTL Consultant, NCDPI DTL

Thursday January 23, 2025 12:00pm - 12:50pm EST
Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

12:00pm EST

....Are You Ready for It? Lessons Learned from Our Infinite Campus Era FILLING

Thursday January 23, 2025 12:00pm - 12:50pm EST

Room 62 - Augusta B (Level 3)

Shake it off, educators! Transitioning to a new Student Information System like Infinite Campus can feel like navigating your own Reputation tour. In this session, we’ll share lessons learned, strategies that worked, and ways to avoid bad Karma. Whether you’re a Begin Again rookie or a Mastermind pro, this session will provide practical tips and collaboration opportunities to help you move from feeling Delicate to Fearless. Let’s turn the challenges of Infinite Campus into your Wildest Dreams of success!

Speakers

Sarah Cardwell

Blended Learning Coordinator, Watauga County Schools

Sarah is the Blended Learning Coordinator for Watauga County Schools. She has been an educator for over 17 years and is passionate about working with teachers and helping them grow professionally. Sarah loves reading and spending time with her family and dog.

Alison Schleede

Director of Technology, Watauga County Schools

Alison Schleede is the Director of Technology in Watauga County Schools in North Carolina. She has worked in several districts across North Carolina and in China. Alison has served as a teacher in all grade ranges, an Instructional Technology Facilitator, and a school administrat... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 12:00pm - 12:50pm EST
Room 62 - Augusta B (Level 3)

Leadership NCSIS Leadership NCSIS Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC Educators

1:00pm EST

Jazzing Up Literacy Instruction with AI FILLING

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST

Room 25 - Biltmore AB (Level 1)

Get ready to jazz up your teaching with a Mardi Gras-inspired exploration of AI tools that will transform your classroom! See ways in which AI can inject new life into your literacy instruction.In this lively session, we'll unmask the power of AI tools like Brisk to enhance your teaching practice:Streamlining InstructionDiscover how AI can help you create engaging lesson plans and presentations effortlessly. Learn to use Brisk's Presentation Maker to craft visually appealing slideshows that captivate your students' attentionKing Cake of Feedback: Personalized Student SupportWe'll explore how Brisk's Targeted Feedback Generator can provide personalized, standards-aligned comments on student work in seconds, allowing you to give each student the royal treatment.Second Line of Time-Saving: Automating Routine TasksWe will demonstrate how AI can handle time-consuming tasks like grading and creating assessments. See how Brisk's Quiz Maker can generate tests and quizzes from various sources, freeing you up to focus on what matters most – your students. Data Analysis: Unveiling Student ProgressLearn to unmask student progress with AI-powered data analysis. We'll show you how Brisk can help collect and interpret student data quickly, allowing you to make informed decisions about instruction and support.

Speakers

Rebecca Evans-Wilson

Digital learning Coach, Orange County Schools

Digital Learning Coach, AI Enthusiast, Lifelong Learner

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST
Room 25 - Biltmore AB (Level 1)

Educators Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

1:00pm EST

Digital Wizardry - AI Style! LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST

Room 20 - Carolina (Level 1)

Join me for an immersive session where we dive into the world of digital wizardry, AI-style! Discover how to leverage cutting-edge technologies and unleash their transformative power in the classroom. Through a blend of hands-on activities and collaborative discussions, you'll gain practical insights and strategies for integrating AI tools into your teaching practice. This session will equip you with the tools to create engaging learning experiences that captivate and inspire your students. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the potential of digital wizardry and take your teaching to enchanting new heights!

Speakers

Deena Pardon

District Digital Learning Specialist, Pitt

Hi! I'm Deena Pardon. I'm currently a District Digital Learning Specialist for Pitt County Schools, but I started my journey as a 4th grade Math and Science teacher. I graduated from East Carolina University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Masters... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST
Room 20 - Carolina (Level 1)

Educators Leadership Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

1:00pm EST

Data and the Learner LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST

Room 23 - Blandwood (Level 1)

Come hear how Moore County School teachers use data to improve student outcomes. We will share our data dive protocol for Learners, AKA The L Protocol. The goal is to use various data points to identify students with the most potential of movement. Teachers can easily idenify the students who are struggling the most, but it's easy for the kids in the middle to fall through the cracks. Our L Protocol identifies areas of focus for individual students using EOG, mClas, iReady, Check-In, and more in a quick protocol.

Speakers

Kate Faw

Director for Planning, Accountability, & Research, Moore County

Donna Gephart

Director, Moore County

Donna Gephart is the Director for Curriculum and Instruction for Moore County Schools.

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST
Room 23 - Blandwood (Level 1)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC

1:00pm EST

I Can Do WHAT with Google Docs?!? LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST

Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

You're probably a pro at using Google Docs, but is it time to take it to Ninja Status? Join Lauren Boucher to learn some new skills when it comes to the Docs app of the Google for Education Suite. Lauren will share underutilized features, time-saving tips, and classroom implementation ideas for all grade levels. Leave inspired and empowered to become a Google Docs Master!

Speakers

Lauren Boucher

Consultant, NCDPI

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST
Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership NCSIS NCSIS Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

1:00pm EST

The Power Of Pairing Instructional Strategies With Digital Resources (while impacting the Portrait of an NC Graduate) LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST

Room 55 - Arrowhead AB (Level 3)

This session will explore how using effective instructional strategies with digital resources can transform classrooms filled with independent digital work into collaborative environments. Participants will learn how to leverage resources like BrainPOP to foster the seven durable skills of the NC Portrait of a Graduate, empowering students to become communicative, critical thinkers with a learner’s mindset. Through practical examples and discussions, attendees will gain actionable insights to lead digital innovation and drive student success at their school or district.

Speakers

Kelsie Stocz

Director, BrainPOP

Former middle school science coordinator for Wake County Public Schools and presently Director of Professional Learning Services at BrainPOP. Kelsie loves the intersection of digital teaching and learning and hands-on experiential learning while empowering students to show what they... Read More →

Jay Yampolsky

Regional Sales Director, BrainPOP

A former middle school social worker and long-time edtech professional with Public Consulting Group - remember EasyIEP/EDPlan, Learning.com and BrainPOP.

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 1:50pm EST
Room 55 - Arrowhead AB (Level 3)

Leadership Leadership Educators Coaches and SLMC

1:00pm EST

Increasing Engagement in Secondary Learning with Small Group Instruction LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm EST

Room 42 - Turnberry (Level 3)

This session will focus on utilizing blended learning instructional practices that allow for small group instruction in secondary classrooms. Participants will explore Station Rotation and Playlists through small group discussions, collaborative activities, and by modeling both methods in the workshop. Participants will leave with concrete ideas on how to support secondary students more effectively and to truly differentiate instruction. Participants will also learn how to use the FREE K-8 Course Content for ELA, Social Studies, Science, and Math to support this small group instruction.

Speakers

Kristine Barberio

Operations Manager / Virtual Instruction Consultan, NCDPI - Office of Virtual Instruction Support

Kristine Barberio is a 20+ year educator who has primarily taught 4th - 6th grades ELA. She is certified in and has worked as an Administrator, Gifted Education Teacher, and with MLL Students. She currently works for NCDPI with the Virtual Instruction Support Services Division through... Read More →

Kelly Rawlston

Content Development Lead

Kelly Rawlston grew up in Milton, West Virginia and relocated to North Carolina in college and has lived in the Tar Heel State since 2001. She has 18+ years of experience in Public Education as a classroom teacher, technology facilitator, and blended learning instructor. Kelly holds... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm EST
Room 42 - Turnberry (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC

1:00pm EST

Navigating the Teacher Evaluation Process: A Guide for School Administrators LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm EST

Room 66 - Tanglewood (Level 3)

Join us for a comprehensive session designed to equip principals and assistant principals with the knowledge and skills to effectively navigate the teacher evaluation process. We will delve into the key components of the policy, including the year-at-a-glance timeline, the teacher rubric, and the principal rubric. Learn best practices for providing targeted feedback, focusing on the specific language of the rubric, to support teacher growth and development.

Speakers

Jennifer Bass

NCDPI NCEES Consultant, NC Department of Public Instruction

Thursday January 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:50pm EST
Room 66 - Tanglewood (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

2:00pm EST

From Roll Call to Report Cards: A Teacher's Guide to Infinite Campus LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EST

Room 68 - Victoria Ballroom B (Level 3)

This session will demonstrate a teacher's experience with Infinite Campus throughout an entire school day. From taking attendance in the morning, to entering assignments and grades during a planning period, and accessing student information to make a positive call home, or running reports for missing assignments, and more. Participants that are current Infinite Campus users will leave with resources to reinforce their daily practice, and soon to be users will have resources to share and utilize with their implementation.

Speakers

Brandy Moody

ITF, Burke County Public Schools

Brandy Moody is an instructional technology facilitator with 21 years of experience in integrating innovative technologies into elementary school environments.

Erin Wolfhope

Instructional Technology Facilitator, NCDPI Educator on Loan from Burke County Public Schools

Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EST
Room 68 - Victoria Ballroom B (Level 3)

Educators

2:00pm EST

Level Up Learning: Supercharge Lessons with AI and ISTE Standards LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EST

Room 60 - Pebble Beach (Level 3)

Discover how easy it is to enhance your existing lessons with AI tools while aligning with ISTE standards—and get access to exclusive resources to help you take your curriculum to the next level. In this interactive session, you’ll explore practical strategies for integrating digital citizenship, creativity, and research skills into your lessons using AI. Participants will leave equipped with new tools, templates, and ready-to-use ideas to supercharge their teaching and engage students like never before.

Speakers

Sabrina Steigelman

E-Rate Coordinator, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Sabrina Steigelman is a State E-Rate Coordinator at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. With a background in education, she holds a B.S. in History from Methodist University, a Master of Library Science from East Carolina University, and a Master of School Administration... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EST
Room 60 - Pebble Beach (Level 3)

Educators Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

2:00pm EST

Let's Go on a Learning Adventure LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EST

Room 25 - Biltmore AB (Level 1)

Discover the joy of personalized learning with Britannica School! Our interactive scavenger hunts will ignite curiosity, spark imagination, and tailor the learning experience to each student's unique needs and interests.

Speakers

Audrey M. Long

Digital Subscription Project Manager, NCDPI

Digital Subscriptions Product ManagerEBSCO and BritannicaDigital Teaching and LearningDepartment of Public Instruction

Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EST
Room 25 - Biltmore AB (Level 1)

Educators Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC Leadership

2:00pm EST

I Can Do WHAT with Google Sheets?!? LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EST

Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

You're probably a pro at using Google Sheets, but is it time to take it to Ninja Status. Join Lauren Boucher to learn some new skills when it comes to the Sheets app of the Google for Education Suite. Lauren will share features and classroom implementation ideas for all grade levels. Leave inspired and empowered to become a Google Sheets Ninja!

Speakers

Lauren Boucher

Consultant, NCDPI

Thursday January 23, 2025 2:00pm - 2:50pm EST
Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership NCSIS NCSIS Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

3:00pm EST

Beating the Group Work Blues: Scaffolding Student Collaborations LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST

Room 24 - Morehead (Level 1)

Are group projects getting you down? Do you pair learners in small teams only to hear crickets? Does it seem like only one person is doing all the work in project groups? Then join this session to learn how you can set students up for successful collaboration and beat the group work blues! We’ll kick off this session with a discussion of some of the most common challenges we face with group projects in the classroom: lack of student communication skills, bossy student leaders, and disengaged group members. Participants will then experience collaborative learning strategies that help overcome these challenges in a new way and experiment with tools like a Team Charter template from LucidSpark for starting teamwork off on the right foot and quick and effective check-in strategies in Padlet or ensuring all team members are on the same page. These strategies transcend one-and-done group projects to develop transferable skills for the world beyond our classrooms. Educators who attend this session will walk away with templates to use in their class tomorrow along with actionable tips for beating the group work blues and setting the tone for the school year.

Speakers

Candice Chambers

Teacher Development Specialist, North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics

I am an educator and professional development specialist interested in empowering my peers to incorporate more student voice, choice, and agency in their instruction. I have an extensive background in online, virtual, and hybrid course design and delivery and I'm an anthropologist... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST
Room 24 - Morehead (Level 1)

Educators Coaches and SLMC

3:00pm EST

Level Up Learning: Supercharge Lessons with AI and ISTE Standards LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST

Room 60 - Pebble Beach (Level 3)

Speakers

Sabrina Steigelman

E-Rate Coordinator, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST
Room 60 - Pebble Beach (Level 3)

Educators Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC

3:00pm EST

Byte-Size Brilliance: Using AI to Crunch School Data LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST

Room 25 - Biltmore AB (Level 1)

In this session, discover how AI can transform data management in education by quickly summarizing test scores, surveys, and school-wide metrics to provide actionable insights. We’ll dive into AI tools that simplify data analysis and inform instructional decisions, all while supporting the implementation of school-wide goals. This session will also cover essential practices for safeguarding student data, ensuring that insights are generated without compromising privacy. Join us to explore how AI can be a powerful ally in making data-driven decisions, all with safety and efficiency at the forefront.

Speakers

Grant Haynes

Data Manager, Cleveland County Schools

Grant is an Instructional Coach for Cleveland County Schools and is based at Cleveland Early College High School. He started out working as a math teacher in 2009 before transitioning to technology in 2011. Grant also serves on the board for NCTIES as co-chair for the 2025 conference... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST
Room 25 - Biltmore AB (Level 1)

Educators Coaches and SLMC Leadership

3:00pm EST

Boosting Learning Outcomes: Digital Strategies for High-Yield Teaching LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST

Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Ignite student learning with digital tools! This session will explore how to leverage technology to implement high-yield instructional strategies, transforming your classroom into a dynamic learning environment. You'll see real-world examples and create your own to apply in your classroom.

Speakers

Jennifer Graham

North Central Regional DTL Consultant, NCDPI DTL

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST
Room 47 - Meadowbrook (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC

3:00pm EST

Classroom Instructional Strategies and Resources Found in Your ISTE/ASCD Memberships LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST

Room 20 - Carolina (Level 1)

Discover how to maximize the benefits of your ISTE and ASCD memberships in this session tailored for North Carolina K-12 educators. Learn how to access and implement a range of instructional strategies and classroom resources that are readily available through these professional organizations. This session will guide you in exploring teaching materials, professional development opportunities, and instructional tools that align with your classroom needs. Whether you’re looking for subject-specific lesson plans or expert-led webinars, you’ll leave equipped with practical resources to support your teaching and foster student engagement.

Speakers

Ashley McBride

Digital Learning Initiative Section Chief, NCDPI

Dr. Ashley McBride is the Digital Learning Initiative Section Chief for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Her role is to support PSUs and schools with their understanding and implementation of the North Carolina Digital Learning Plan. You can reach out to Ashley... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST
Room 20 - Carolina (Level 1)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC

3:00pm EST

Scaffolding the Use of Tech Tools to Limiting Learning Barriers LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST

Room 23 - Blandwood (Level 1)

In this session, we will discuss how scaffolding the use of a digital tool like Canva can benefit students in terms of products created and enhance learning experiences in the classroom. We would all agree that the more we use a tool, the more comfortable we are with it, and the better the products we produce. Do we approach student products the same way?This session will provide practical strategies and examples to effectively integrate Canva into your teaching practice and easy ways to connect activities, building on the understanding of Canva as a tool leading to a higher level of creativity, more in-depth projects, and ultimately better products, refocusing on the learning and not the challenge of learning a new tool all the time.Participants will discuss how we scaffold learning content and how we apply this concept to tools in the classroom or if we even do. Then, we will walk through a sample yearly curriculum showcasing ways Canva could be tactfully applied and how the scaffolding concept would work. Lastly, participants will get a chance to share ways they have used Canva in the classroom and if they used the scaffolding concept or if scaffolding the use of the tool would have changed student outcomes.

Speakers

Kalo Haslem

Instructional Technology Facilitator, Harnett County Schools

I am a Teaching professional with proven experience developing and implementing multidimensional lessons covering various topics and using various tools. Specifically skilled in integrating technology tools into the classroom to support content, improve 21st-century skills, and extend... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST
Room 23 - Blandwood (Level 1)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC

3:00pm EST

Level Up: Coding + Ai + DigCit LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST

Room 42 - Turnberry (Level 3)

Join us for an exciting session where Coding + Ai + DigCit = A Winning Team that spark student engagement and success flourish when learners are given voice, choice, and opportunities to interact with multiple learning resources. Participants will gain practical strategies for integrating personalized learning, timely feedback, and dynamic, interactive lessons using Infinite Campus LMS and Tech Quest with Learning.com into their instruction. A key focus will be helping educators guide students through engaging with technology securely, with accountability, and in ways that foster respectful behavior. Through the lens of critical thinking, problem-solving, and differentiation, educators will learn how to help students take ownership of their learning and become active creators and innovators. Fellow educators will walk away with actionable tools and strategies to enhance instructional delivery via streamline lesson planning, ignite deeper student engagement, freeing up time, and helping cultivate flexible students who are confident problem-solvers and future-ready digital learners.

Speakers

Brenda Elam-Coney

Educational Technology Specialist, Wayne County Public Schools

Brenda is a future-ready educator committed to empowering learners through a dynamic blend of Coding + Ai + DigCit = “A Winning Team,” with a strong focus on Digital Citizenship (DigCit) awareness. With over 26 years of experience in Wayne County Public Schools, Brenda has held... Read More →

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST
Room 42 - Turnberry (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC NCSIS NCSIS

3:00pm EST

Bridging the Gap: Effective Communication Using Canva LIMITED

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST

Room 51 - Colony BC (Level 3)

Discover how to enhance communication with others by using Canva, a versatile design tool that helps you create simple and impactful visuals.

Speakers

Melissa Kidd

PowerSchool Coordinator, Randolph County School System

Thursday January 23, 2025 3:00pm - 3:50pm EST
Room 51 - Colony BC (Level 3)

Educators Leadership Leadership NCSIS NCSIS Coaches and SLMC Coaches and SLMC