Elevate 2025 in Salt Lake City Utah on June 23 to 26 - Sessions

Be encouraged by a panel of FACTS Admission Directors who not only survived their first year using FACTS A & E but thrived!  Learn how you can follow in their footsteps by adopting their secrets for prioritizing their time, utilizing their favorite FACTS tools, and leveraging all aspects of FACTS support to get the job done.

Learn from school super users who are maximizing their use of FACTS A&E! This session features 10 innovative hacks from admissions pros who have customized and optimized their process in FACTS. Be inspired by creative solutions from schools just like yours and walk away with strategies you can implement immediately.

In this class, we will explore the art and science of using data to tell compelling stories. We will cover techniques for transforming raw data into clear, engaging narratives that resonate with the target audiences. Want to learn how to visualize data effectively, identify key insights and structure a narrative that brings those insights to life? Story Telling with Data is the class for you!

Want to ensure your admissions emails get noticed and read? This session will reveal the secrets to writing parent-focused emails that stand out in crowded inboxes. Learn how to create professional emails in FACTS with attention-grabbing subject lines, your school’s brand images, and key elements that make your messages more valuable. Watch me demonstrate how to build a model email in FACTS and get a head start with ready-to-edit templates you can customize for your school. 

Bring your questions to our A&E expert and join an open discussion designed to give you the answers and insights you need to maximize your A&E experience when setting up your applications and enrollments.

Presented by Tracy Smith, FACTS Enrollment Management Specialist
Are growing applicant pools and outdated processes slowing you down? Learn how a large FACTS school transitioned from manual excel spreadsheets to a comprehensive single-source solution in FACTS. Discover how they manage extensive wait pools while maintaining a personal touch with families. Perfect for schools looking to optimize admissions in high-demand markets.

One of the main struggles of private schools is finding students. Private education is costly and a lot of times can not compete with state schools in terms of funding.In my class I'd like to share the experience of growing private school from 62 to 140 enrolled students in just two years. We will talk about most urgent problems enrollment coordinators are facing:-How to advertise-Where to find potential students-How to turn inquiry into enrollment-How to stand out among other private schools in the area

In this session, we’ll explore integration options for the Student Information System (SIS). Learn about established partner integrations, Single Sign-On (SSO) solutions, and robust API capabilities that streamline workflows and enhance user experiences. Gain high-level insights into how these integrations can optimize your SIS and Admissions platforms' efficiency.

Proper utilization of FACTS SIS is vital for your teaching staff to have a great year. Come learn from a former teacher how to make your staffs’ school lives much simpler by just implementing a few easy processes at your school.

In this class, we will explore the art and science of using data to tell compelling stories. We will cover techniques for transforming raw data into clear, engaging narratives that resonate with the target audiences. Want to learn how to visualize data effectively, identify key insights and structure a narrative that brings those insights to life? Story Telling with Data is the class for you!

Discover some hidden treasures within the SIS that might help you do your job more effectively.

Depending on who you ask, approximately 15-20% of US school-aged students have some diagnosed learning need. In order to retain these students and equip them to succeed, we developed a learning program to provide appropriate accommodations for students. We created a process using multiple system areas from FACTS (UDF, Portfolio, Alerts, Webforms, Report Manager, Activities) to track and manage students who have been granted learning accommodations. We will talk about what we’re doing for various situations, how we communicate and report, and look forward to questions and comments from participants.

Explore practical strategies for efficiently scheduling parent-teacher conferences and submitting behavior events FACTS SIS. Learn how to streamline the scheduling process, improve communication with parents, and ensure accurate documentation of student behavior. Key takeaways include: tips for scheduling conferences, how to communicate clearly with parents before, during, and after conferences; best practices for submitting behavior events; using behavior data to support student progress and improve outcomes.

Gone are the days of standing at the copy machine. Come learn how to create a totally paperless classroom from bellringer to exit quiz using FACTS SIS and LMS.

Proper utilization of FACTS SIS is vital for your teaching staff to have a great year. Come learn from a former teacher how to make your staffs’ school lives much simpler by just implementing a few easy processes at your school.

Dig into data analytics and dashboard in your classroom and learn how to use our data analytics areas for teachers to improve student scores.

(Presented by Erin Martin, Registrar, McKinney Christian Academy) Ever wondered what a typical day looks like for a registrar? Find out in this engaging session with three FACTS registrars, who will share an in-depth look into their role as a FACTS Registrar. Learn insights, tips, and best practices they've learned along the way. This session is perfect for attendees just beginning registrar roles with their schools, experienced registrars looking for new ways to approach their day-to-day tasks, or anyone interested in learning more about this role.

Explore practical strategies for efficiently scheduling parent-teacher conferences and submitting behavior events FACTS SIS. Learn how to streamline the scheduling process, improve communication with parents, and ensure accurate documentation of student behavior. Key takeaways include: tips for scheduling conferences, how to communicate clearly with parents before, during, and after conferences; best practices for submitting behavior events; using behavior data to support student progress and improve outcomes.

(Presented by John Metallo, High School Principal, First Baptist School of Charleston) Effective leadership and clear communication are essential for cultivating a strong, supportive school community in today's educational environment. This presentation will showcase how innovative tools can help school leaders enhance their leadership skills and build a more connected and engaged environment.We will explore practical ways to streamline communication across all school levels—from administrators to parents—ensuring everyone stays informed and aligned with the schools vision. By utilizing integrated messaging and real-time updates, leaders can foster transparency, quickly address issues, and strengthen relationships within the school community.Additionally, we'll discuss how leveraging data insights can inform strategic decision-making, allowing leaders to make well-informed choices that drive school improvement and student success. The presentation will also cover strategies for facilitating staff collaboration, optimizing administrative tasks, and creating a positive, productive school culture.Join us to learn how these tools can become invaluable allies in your leadership journey, helping you build a cohesive and thriving school community.

Did you know FACTS can help organize and execute your teacher observations, complete informed evaluations, and provide tailored professional development. This session will showcase how FACTS can be an end-to-end solution to streamline the teacher observation process while ensuring personalized and effective follow-up professional development.

Tired of keeping your teacher records, evaluations, observations, HR information in four different places? Learn how FACTS SIS can be used as your system of record as an instructional leader, improving your teacher efficacy and student performance in the process!

Learn how to use SIS reports as academic leaders, to track student progress, identify trends, and make informed decisions to support school improvement. Key takeaways include: how to navigate and create customized reports in the SIS; using data to monitor student performance and attendance; explore how to dive into the dynamic data analysis of the Dashboard Builder.

Need to collect or provide info outside of the Enrollment/Re-Enrollment window? Webforms are a powerful, but complicated, tool for gathering information from families at any time of year. Webforms save you from spreadsheets and extra data entry. They take a little time to master, and they've got some quirks, but can be used in a multitude of situations, such as: field trip driver MVR verification, requiring parents to acknowledge approved learning accommodations for their students, submit information for new drivers/new vehicles, carpool preferences and approved adults. This session will help you to set up different types of forms; learn to set up notifications so appropriate staff know when forms are submitted; discover how to limit forms only to specific grades or individuals; and manage viewable v. editable fields. We'll also talk about ideas for helpful forms.

Working with parents who are separating and/or getting divorced can be tricky on a variety of levels. In addition, we have so many types of non-traditional families these days it can be tough to keep track. Learn how to correctly split these families in the SIS database without sacrificing any data integrity (or your sanity!)

(Presented by Ellen Starkey, School Counselor at St. Luke's Episcopal School). Many counselors' primary use of FACTS is limited to scheduling, report cards, and transcripts. In this digital age, paper records are time consuming, tedious, and voluminous. FACTS provides numerous features that will save time, money, and aggravation for counselors In this seminar we will investigate shortcuts for tracking counseling sessions, various parent/teacher conferences tracking, teacher conferences (with the counselor), accessing prior behavior issues, enrollment history, and of course grades.

Maximizing Impact, Growth, and Compliance for Schools in School Choice States. School choice is one of the most transformative forces shaping K-12 education today. But are you fully capitalizing on it? In this essential session, we’ll break down the national school choice landscape, explore how it integrates with FACTS products and services, and provide actionable insights on how to manage, track, and report funding efficiently. Beyond funding, we’ll dive into the key data points that drive decision-making, helping schools navigate: Are we maximizing our state’s programs? Do we truly understand our state's school choice opportunities? Are we prepared for audits and compliance requirements? How does school choice impact our admissions process? Does our data show that these programs are fueling enrollment growth? This session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make smarter strategic decisions, ensuring your school thrives in the evolving school choice landscape. If you're in a school choice state, this session is a must-attend.

In this session, we’ll explore integration options for our financial products—Payment Plans and Grants & Aid. Learn about established partner integrations, Single Sign-On (SSO) solutions, and API capabilities that streamline workflows and enhance user experiences. Gain high-level insights into how these integrations can optimize the financial platform's efficiency.

In this class, we will explore the art and science of using data to tell compelling stories. We will cover techniques for transforming raw data into clear, engaging narratives that resonate with the target audiences. Want to learn how to visualize data effectively, identify key insights and structure a narrative that brings those insights to life? Story Telling with Data is the class for you!

Learn what’s next for FACTS Tuition Management and get answers to your product questions at this special session. Join TMG product manager Traci Wardman for this special session where you’ll hear about new product features and updates, plus learn helpful tips on using Tuition Management in your daily operations. Ask Traci Anything!

Dual-household families, stemming from divorce, separation, or unique living arrangements, often pose challenges for independent school financial aid programs. Balancing fairness, compliance, and sensitivity requires clear policies and thoughtful approaches. In this session, Alisa will explore best practices for managing dual-household scenarios using FACTS Grant & Aid tools, including evaluating financial contributions from both households, implementing waivers for non-custodial parents or guardians, and addressing uncooperative households. Gain practical strategies to ensure a fair, transparent, and consistent process for all applicants.

Connect with fellow Business Managers from across the country in this small group networking session. Questions can be submitted in advance, with a FACTS expert facilitating the discussion. Get ready to make new connections and share tips and tricks of the trade!

In this highly interactive and engaging session, workshop participants will be called upon to actively participate and present their strategies that work in their schools. The audience becomes the presenters—after all, in every room there are a world of practical ideas and solutions that work in schools. Workshop attendees will be called upon to present enrollment marketing strategies that work in their schools. In addition, interactive online polls and other tools will help to provide feedback in real time. This rapid-fire session will feature as many ideas as possible in an hour presented from the audience. You will leave encouraged and you will certainly have several new ideas that work in other schools to implement when you get back to the office.

Connect with fellow Financial Aid staff from across the country in this small group networking session. Questions can be submitted in advance, with a FACTS expert facilitating the discussion. Get ready to make new connections and share tips and tricks of the trade!

Connect with fellow Counselors, Registrars & Academic Deans from across the country in this small group networking session. Questions can be submitted in advance, with a FACTS expert facilitating the discussion. Get ready to make new connections and share tips and tricks of the trade!

Connect with fellow Upper School Principals from across the country in this small group networking session. Questions can be submitted in advance, with a FACTS expert facilitating the discussion. Get ready to make new connections and share tips and tricks of the trade!

Connect with fellow SIS Database Admins from across the country in this small group networking session. Questions can be submitted in advance, with a FACTS product manager facilitating the discussion. Get ready to make new connections and share tips and tricks of the trade!

Connect with fellow IT Directors from across the country in this small group networking session. Questions can be submitted in advance, with a FACTS expert facilitating the discussion. Get ready to make new connections and share tips and tricks of the trade!

Feeling inspired by Nancy's keynote speech? Keep the conversation going! Join Nancy for this special conversation following her keynote, where attendees will have the chance to ask questions, share their own experiences, and learn more about Nancy's incredible story. Attendance is limited, so make sure to reserve your space!

Learn about our newest product, FACTS Data Analytics, with Product Owner Matthew Baker. will share more about this product’s features, answer questions about practical applications in your school, and discuss the roadmap as FACTS continues to prioritize data.

Discover how FACTS is enhancing professional development with innovative opportunities designed to empower educators and leaders. This session will debut our K-12 PD LMS Marketplace, offering self-paced learning, customizable content, and scalable solutions tailored to today’s educational needs. Whether you’re looking for creative ways to support your staff or exploring how professional development can enhance success in your classroom, this session provides valuable insights and an exclusive preview of how our LMS platform can elevate growth for educators. Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of learning with FACTS!

Learn what’s next for FACTS A&E and get answers to your product questions at this special session. Join A&E product manager Kemp Tucker for this special session where you’ll hear about new product features and updates, plus learn helpful tips on using A&E in your daily operations. Ask Kemp Anything!

Learn what’s next for FACTS SIS and get answers to your product questions at this special session. Join SIS product manager Greg Stuckey for this special session where you’ll hear about new product features and updates, plus learn helpful tips on using SIS in your daily operations. Ask Greg Anything!

Learn what’s next for FACTS A&E and get answers to your product questions at this special session. Join A&E product manager Kemp Tucker for this special session where you’ll hear about new product features and updates, plus learn helpful tips on using A&E in your daily operations. Ask Kemp Anything!

Discover how FACTS is enhancing professional development with innovative opportunities designed to empower educators and leaders. This session will debut our K-12 PD LMS Marketplace, offering self-paced learning, customizable content, and scalable solutions tailored to today’s educational needs. Whether you’re looking for creative ways to support your staff or exploring how professional development can enhance success in your classroom, this session provides valuable insights and an exclusive preview of how our LMS platform can elevate growth for educators. Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of learning with FACTS!

What integrations does FACTS SIS offer, and what's coming down the pike? What about the API Portal for developers? Ask our IT Directors anything!

How do I post on Instagram Reels? Do hashtags really matter? Why does my school need a video on our website? If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, this session is for you! Sophia is the Digital Storyteller for the Diocese of Brooklyn Schools, using her creativity to promote enrollment and parent engagement through story-based marketing. Come to this session with all your questions regarding social media, using video as part of your marketing strategy, and building a brand for your school that is effective and authentic.

Discover how to use data to level up your school’s advancement efforts. Learn what metrics to track, tools to simplify data management, and ways to turn insights into action. From personalized outreach to smarter campaign planning, this session will help you make data work for you and achieve bigger results.

Learn how to create an alumni program that keeps your school connected with graduates for years to come. In this session, we'll cover everything from effective communication strategies to engaging events and giving opportunities. You'll get practical tips on building lasting relationships, increasing alumni participation, and turning alumni into dedicated supporters of your school’s mission.

Join us as we wind down our series of specific strategy sessions on advancement and fundraising. In this wrap-up AMA session, we will have a chance to ask questions to the session leader and each other about taking all the information back to our schools and making it happen.

In this session, we’ll break down the key strategies for running a successful one-day giving campaign. From crafting attention-grabbing messages to making the most of social media and rallying your community, we’ve got you covered. You’ll learn how to build urgency, inspire supporters, and smash your fundraising goals—all in just one day.

This session is all about helping your school level up its fundraising and donor engagement game. We’ll dive into how you can use data, donor insights, and smart planning to take your efforts to the next level. You’ll get practical tips on using data to target the right people, personalize your approach, and build lasting donor relationships.

Are you an Advancement Office of one, overwhelmed with all the things you could and should be doing for fundraising, marketing, alumni relations and more?  Join us to talk and preparing and automating for a successful year – and using the resources you have to make it work!

(Exhibitor Session presented by Manuel Herrera, Archangel) Are you interested in getting started with Sketchnoting? Are you curious about what sketchnoting is all about? Then you’ve come to the right place. Sketchnotes are rich visual notes created from a mix of handwriting, drawings, hand-lettering, shapes, and visual elements like arrows, boxes, and lines. In this session, we’ll dive into how sketchnoting benefits students who consume and process information in a different way. You’ll learn the tools, methods, and mindsets that make up sketchnoting. Don’t worry if you can’t draw. We’ll build confidence in you so you can start sketching right away.

This session highlights Google Classroom's evolution over ten years, its extensive use globally, and its integration with other Google tools. We will go over details on ways Classroom enhances teaching and learning by empowering educators, enabling students, and supercharging leaders through various features, including AI-powered tools and accessibility options. Furthermore, we address key issues like educator burnout and cybersecurity, positioning Google Workspace as a comprehensive and secure solution.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Manuel Herrera, Archangel) Join us for a hands-on workshop that will transform the way you and your students brainstorm, communicate, and learn—without taking ourselves too seriously! Discover how simple drawings can make your thinking visible, clarify complex ideas, and supercharge brainstorming and problem-solving. We’ll cover sketchnoting basics, from drawing stick figures you won’t be embarrassed to show off to organizing ideas with visual flair. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to use tomorrow, making your lessons more engaging and fun. No artistic skills are needed—just bring your curiosity, a sense of humor, and maybe a favorite doodling pen!

Get ready for an exciting first look at our AI Co-Teacher, designed to transform the way students interact with learning! This prototype will allow students to engage in dynamic, Socratic-style conversations, simulating the experience of working directly with a teacher. Teachers will receive valuable insights through feedback on student homework and a dashboard to monitor app usage. We’ll also invite you to provide real-time feedback during the session to help shape the future of the platform. Plus, we’ll be sharing our innovative plans while keeping security at the forefront. Don't miss the chance to be part of this groundbreaking journey!

Join us for an insightful session where you’ll have the opportunity to spend time with our Innovation Team, focusing on the real challenges you’re facing in the classroom and administration. FACTS invites administrators, department heads, technical leads, and business managers to share their most pressing needs and discuss how technology can help solve them. We’ll also share some of the innovative new ideas we’re working on and invite your feedback to ensure we’re heading in the right direction. This is a chance to reflect on what has worked, what hasn’t, and collaborate on shaping the future of education.

As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into daily life, students must learn how to engage with AI ethically, responsibly, and critically. This session explores AI citizenship, focusing on ethical decision-making, academic integrity, digital responsibility, and bias awareness. Educators will leave with practical strategies and discussion frameworks to help students navigate AI in a way that aligns with ethical standards and responsible digital use.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Edsby) Assessment in K-12 is evolving. And parent expectations for streamlined communication with your school are higher than ever. Learn how to accommodate contemporary standards-based assessment, mastery learning, formative assessment, evidence of learning and more. And see how a modern new system combined with FACTS can boost parent insight into student achievement and engagement with your school. Learn about and ask questions of Edsby, the K-12 learning platform that's won more than 80 awards.

(Exhibitor Session Presented by Right Now Media). Join us to learn how to revolutionize your discipleship efforts. Explore the digital age’s impact on discipleship and learn how our extensive library of quality video resources and on-demand professional development courses can inspire and engage your school community.

Instead of a time-consuming search for the “perfect picture” you can create images to use in a classroom and instructional setting using generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this session, participants will explore AI tools that let them create an image to support their instructional goals, communicate with families and colleagues, and help bring course content to life. In this interactive session, discover how to quickly create images using AI tools and ten use cases that might surprise you (and students!).

(Exhibitor session presented by Track It Forward). Families, parents, and guardians are vital partners to schools. Family engagement is proven to help improve student outcomes and can be beneficial to the school. However, promoting effective family engagement can be difficult. We’ve combined survey and quantitative data from hundreds of schools across the country to see what family engagement looks like in schools today. This session will discuss parent volunteer program trends and insights while providing a look at tools that can help improve family engagement.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Andy Lynch, President & CEO, Tassel Marketing) Choosing an independent or faith-based school is one of the most significant decisions a family makes — but it’s rarely a simple one. Since families don’t shop for schools often, they may not have a clear framework for evaluating their options. In this session, Andy Lynch, President & CEO of Tassel, will break down seven motivations that drive families’ decision-making. You’ll walk away with actionable strategies to refine your messaging and marketing efforts, positioning your school as a trusted guide in their journey to find the right fit.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Andy Lynch, President and Micah Fox, Solutions Advisor, Tassel Marketing) Take your school’s branding and web presence to the next level! In this unscripted, interactive workshop, participants will receive LIVE assessments of their school’s branding and website from Tassel team members Andy Lynch, President & CEO, and Micah Fox, Solutions Advisor. Discover what’s working, what’s not, and how to make immediate improvements that resonate with your audience. Whether you’re looking to refresh a tired brand, improve your website’s user experience, increase inquiries, or enhance visual appeal, this session will provide actionable feedback to help your school stand out and engage with Right-Fit Families™.

Clear and positive communication is essential for fostering strong relationships with young children, families, and colleagues. This session provides practical strategies to enhance verbal and nonverbal communication, navigate difficult conversations, and create a supportive learning environment that encourages collaboration and trust.

Join Dr. Rick Newberry in this transformative workshop designed for school leaders, where we redefine the standards for campus tours and the entire visit experience. This session is an essential toolkit for school leaders aiming to turn every campus visit into a powerful catalyst for enrollment. We will discuss every component of your campus visit experience from the pre-visit logistics to effective follow-up, and everything during the actual on-campus visit. This workshop will provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the stages of the campus visit experience and actionable recommendations for key component to the admissions process.

How do I post on Instagram Reels? Do hashtags really matter? Why does my school need a video on our website? If you’ve ever asked yourself these questions, this session is for you! Sophia is the Digital Storyteller for the Diocese of Brooklyn Schools, using her creativity to promote enrollment and parent engagement through story-based marketing. Come to this session with all your questions regarding social media, using video as part of your marketing strategy, and building a brand for your school that is effective and authentic.

(Presented by Kailey Leske, Enrollment Director, Trinity Episcopal School) While the tradition of open house events that invite prospective families to campus to highlight school experiences are important, the traditional open house can miss the mark for many prospective families. Families want to feel seen and met at their current stage of parenthood, which means we must be innovative in our open house approach for different audiences. Schools can utilize enrollment trends and data to best determine target audiences for events. D is for Donut is an innovative approach to Open House appropriately geared toward pre-school aged children and their families. Prospective families with PreK3, PreK4 and Kindergarten children are invited to experience the most extraordinary aspect of our school - our teachers! You "donut" want to miss the opportunity to learn how your school can develop innovative admissions events that best meet the needs for your school demographic and community.

(Presented by Scott Barron, Founder, School Growth) Enrollment data is extremely valuable to achieve school growth. You can use it to uncover trends and truths about your target market of families, and to more accurately forecast enrollment and tuition. Learn how to collect and use data to produce more useful reports and brand stories that will advance your leadership capacity. In this session we’ll share strategies to improve data collection and analysis, along with techniques to improve forecasting and reporting. 

In this highly interactive and engaging session (unlike any on this schedule), workshop participants will be called upon to actively participate and present their strategies that work in their schools. Instead of Dr. Rick Newberry presenting, he will facilitate this session as the audience becomes the presenters—after all, in every room there are a world of practical ideas and solutions that work in schools. Workshop attendees will be called upon to present enrollment marketing strategies that work in their schools. In addition, interactive online polls and other tools will help to provide feedback in real time. With so many possibilities for this workshop, this rapid-fire session will feature as many ideas as possible in an hour presented from the audience. You will leave encouraged and you will certainly have several new ideas that work in other schools to implement when you get back to the office.

Technology - particularly Artificial Intelligence - can be confusing, intimidating, and even frightening. This presentation will demystify AI and provide recommend tech you can trust. Attendees will be empowered to embrace and leverage technology to save time, enhance creativity, and improve the effectiveness of their marketing efforts. 

Are growing applicant pools and outdated processes slowing you down? Learn how a large FACTS school transitioned from manual excel spreadsheets to a comprehensive single-source solution in FACTS. Discover how they manage extensive wait pools while maintaining a personal touch with families. Perfect for schools looking to optimize admissions in high-demand markets. 

(Presented by Lori Tays, Vice-President, Mars Hill Bible School) A significant portion of enrollment discussion typically focuses on how to increase enrollment or reverse declining enrollment trends. But what happens when your school experiences a sudden or unexpected period of rapid growth? Mars Hill Bible School experienced a 43% enrollment increase across grades TK-12 in five years. This extraordinary growth period resulted in a cascade of consequences both positive and challenging. From capital projects to shifts in school culture, school leaders navigated the delicate nature of responsible growth. In this session, we will utilize personal experience and current research to address: Why these rapid trends may occur, steps you can take now to prepare your school for unexpected growth, what to do if you are in the middle of a rapid growth cycle, and pitfalls to avoid when your growth is accelerating quickly. By addressing these areas thoughtfully, school leaders can navigate the complexities of rapid enrollment growth while continuing to foster a culture of institutional integrity for students, families, and staff alike.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Dallin Palmer, President, Halda) Learn how your institution can harness powerful insights from web traffic, form submissions, seasonal campaign analytics, and historical inquiry and application data to drive enrollment success. This session will show you how to use data-driven strategies to inform strategic revenue planning, prioritize high-impact initiatives, and make the most of your budget.

Research and assessments are critical to your school’s growth and momentum. As a foundation to your enrollment marketing and school improvement plan, it is important to understand the practical steps you can take. We will unpack the survey possibilities—from the Net Promoter Score to Satisfaction—as well as the importance of more in depth focus groups. This research, coupled with a comprehensive assessment, will give you the foundation you need to inform your school’s enrollment marketing and school improvement plan.

School tours are the foundation upon which schools build relationships with parents. If a parent walks into your school for a tour, they should be ready to register their student that same day. School tours should reinforce the messages on your website and serve as confirmation that the parent is making the right choice. Kurt Lewis has taught administrators, teachers, and parent volunteers at more than 200 schools how to lead a tour which will lead to an on-the-spot conversion. Join this session to learn about The Diamond, The Greeting, The Serious Moment, The Afterthought, and many other key moments in a parent's first visit to your school, as well as strategies for effective follow-up.

Learn how communicating with our stakeholders during any crisis requires pre-planning, timely and clear responses, an expression of caring and a commitment to a resolution. During this presentation, you will learn how to research the potential scenarios for a crisis, plan for a calculated response, implement data-driven tasks and evaluate how well the information was received by the community. A goal of crisis communications is to have seamless communication during the crisis and to articulately share with the school’s publics what has occurred. Types of crises that will be reviewed include public relations, natural disasters, cyber-attacks, security threats and other dangerous incidents. Examples of school crisis communication procedures and plans will be shared, as well as sample statements from schools and dioceses, plus templates for various scenarios. Learn how to use your FACTS management systemt to support these efforts and assist with seamless communication.

(Exhibitor session presented by Dewar). How can your school be better prepared to address student withdrawals? In this presentation, John will discuss mental health and its impact on student retention. He will explore subjects such as how to utilize a Tuition Refund Plan to supplement annual obligations, and even assist with student withdrawals.

Maximizing Impact, Growth, and Compliance for Schools in School Choice States. School choice is one of the most transformative forces shaping K-12 education today. But are you fully capitalizing on it? In this essential session, we’ll break down the national school choice landscape, explore how it integrates with FACTS products and services, and provide actionable insights on how to manage, track, and report funding efficiently. Beyond funding, we’ll dive into the key data points that drive decision-making, helping schools navigate: Are we maximizing our state’s programs? Do we truly understand our state's school choice opportunities? Are we prepared for audits and compliance requirements? How does school choice impact our admissions process? Does our data show that these programs are fueling enrollment growth? This session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make smarter strategic decisions, ensuring your school thrives in the evolving school choice landscape. If you're in a school choice state, this session is a must-attend.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Sara Infante, Director of Operations, CoSurge) This session on Audit Preparation will guide school leaders through the key steps to effectively prepare for and utilize an audit. Topics will include determining the appropriate level of audit service needed, understanding the purpose and scope of an audit, and how to leverage audit findings for school improvement once the process is complete. Attendees will gain clarity on how audits can support their accreditation efforts and enhance operational efficiency.

Wondering what funds are available for your private school that can support instructional services for students? Professional learning for teachers? Cost savings for school-wide Internet? FACTS Education Services is committed to equipping school leaders with knowledge and tools to ensure access to the dollars that rightfully belong to their students and teachers.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Fortify Foundation). This session will focus on the typical outlook of a private school budget. We will have varying case studies illustrating the difference in outcomes and future trajectories of varying models. We will also take time to build a case study based on your school’s enrollment and average tuition rates. We will: explore and Understand Current School Funding Models, Explore 3 Types of Budgeting Methods, Understanding Sustainability through 3 typical Case Scenarios that highlight variables outside of our control and how we can endure through them.

Wondering what funds are available for your private school that can support instructional services for students? Professional learning for teachers? Cost savings for school-wide Internet? FACTS Education Services is committed to equipping school leaders with knowledge and tools to ensure access to the dollars that rightfully belong to their students and teachers.

Discover how diocesan leaders can drive enrollment growth by strategically leveraging school choice programs. This session will highlight a proven blueprint for success, showcasing how one diocese achieved a 30.4% increase in enrollment over the past decade—with all schools now at capacity and thriving with waitlists. Learn how strategic use of school choice programs, high-impact marketing, and long-term sustainability planning can transform enrollment. If your diocese isn’t actively harnessing school choice to expand its reach, you could be missing critical opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to gain insights from leaders who have successfully turned enrollment challenges into record-breaking success.

Accounting, fundraising, tuition and payroll are the pillars of your school’s financial success – but how do you get them to work together? Discover how breaking down financial silos empowers faculty and administrators—regardless of accounting expertise—to access comprehensive financial insights anytime, anywhere. In this session, we’ll explore how modern technology bridges departmental divides, creating a unified financial picture that fosters informed decisions, transparency, and ultimately, greater student success.

(Exhibitor Session) This session on Audit Preparation will guide school leaders through the key steps to effectively prepare for and utilize an audit. Topics will include determining the appropriate level of audit service needed, understanding the purpose and scope of an audit, and how to leverage audit findings for school improvement once the process is complete. Attendees will gain clarity on how audits can support their accreditation efforts and enhance operational efficiency.

Are tax documents like the 1040, W-2, or K-1 forms a puzzle you’re struggling to piece together? This session is your key to unlocking the secrets of family financial documentation. Perfect for beginners or those seeking a confidence boost, we’ll break down essential tax forms, transcripts, and business returns to help you identify critical details and address common challenges—especially with families who own businesses or rental properties. With practical tips and foundational knowledge, you’ll be equipped to make fair, informed, and equitable financial aid decisions. Join us to decode the complexities and take the mystery out of tax documents!

(Exhibitor Session presented by Michael Blanton, Director, SAGE Intacct) With all the great work your school does to educate children, how do you track and show it? How do you quickly and clearly validate, quantify, and report on the outcomes of your activities? Leading school finance leaders are utilizing outcome metrics to better manage their schools and demonstrate success to stakeholders. In this session, you'll learn what is driving forward-thinking school finance leaders to place a strong emphasis on outcome metrics—and why they are leveraging Sage Intacct and FACTS Connected Suite to drive greater impact.

Maximizing Impact, Growth, and Compliance for Schools in School Choice States. School choice is one of the most transformative forces shaping K-12 education today. But are you fully capitalizing on it? In this essential session, we’ll break down the national school choice landscape, explore how it integrates with FACTS products and services, and provide actionable insights on how to manage, track, and report funding efficiently. Beyond funding, we’ll dive into the key data points that drive decision-making, helping schools navigate: Are we maximizing our state’s programs? Do we truly understand our state's school choice opportunities? Are we prepared for audits and compliance requirements? How does school choice impact our admissions process? Does our data show that these programs are fueling enrollment growth? This session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to make smarter strategic decisions, ensuring your school thrives in the evolving school choice landscape. If you're in a school choice state, this session is a must-attend.

(Exhibitor Session Presented by Right Now Media). Join us to learn how to revolutionize your discipleship efforts. Explore the digital age’s impact on discipleship and learn how our extensive library of quality video resources and on-demand professional development courses can inspire and engage your school community.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Edsby) Assessment in K-12 is evolving. And parent expectations for streamlined communication with your school are higher than ever. Learn how to accommodate contemporary standards-based assessment, mastery learning, formative assessment, evidence of learning and more. And see how a modern new system combined with FACTS can boost parent insight into student achievement and engagement with your school. Learn about and ask questions of Edsby, the K-12 learning platform that's won more than 80 awards.

(Exhibitor Session presented by PikMyKid). Everyone is talking about school safety. And almost everyone is talking about bullet proof glass, automatic door locks, and other devices to secure a school. But, REAL school safety is much more. This session addresses the fundamentals of creating a safe environment for the students and staff and focuses on the culture and engagement of the parents and community. Attendees will leave this session with a better understanding of building a school culture that is proactive with safety and not just reactive once an incident begins.

Discover how diocesan leaders can drive enrollment growth by strategically leveraging school choice programs. This session will highlight a proven blueprint for success, showcasing how one diocese achieved a 30.4% increase in enrollment over the past decade—with all schools now at capacity and thriving with waitlists. Learn how strategic use of school choice programs, high-impact marketing, and long-term sustainability planning can transform enrollment. If your diocese isn’t actively harnessing school choice to expand its reach, you could be missing critical opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to gain insights from leaders who have successfully turned enrollment challenges into record-breaking success.

(Exhibitor session presented by NCEA). This presentation is crafted for K–12 private school leaders and educators committed to building stronger, more mission-driven communities. Centered around three guiding themes—Engage, Empower and Inspire—the session explores how schools can intentionally use data to strengthen relationships, fuel growth and cultivate joy. The presentation encourages active reflection and collaboration while emphasizing that data is more than numbers—it’s a reflection of our mission in action. Participants will be challenged to identify one area to elevate using data as a catalyst for change and will leave ready to take small, data-informed steps that will lead to transformational change.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Alpaca Packs) When Valley Forge Academy wanted to learn more about their educators’ wellbeing, they turned to a new idea: semantic pulse check-ins. Learn how Valley Forge used new technology to listen to their teachers every month, find ideas for targeted support, and create truly delightful staff celebrations.

This session is meant to fill the toolbox of leaders and teachers alike who are looking to make relationship building a priority in their organizations and classrooms. We will explore a variety of strategies for building positive relationships and reflect on how that impacts the organizational culture. We will also dive in for a deeper understanding of relationship and trust building specifically for students from traumatic backgrounds.

(Presented by Deb Dejong, Nampa Christian Schools) In this session, Deb will share the journey Nampa Christian has been on that has transformed: how and why we plan, how and why we assess, how we think about curriculum and teaching, and we think about almost everything else! Beginning with our mission and vision, creating a Portrait of a Graduate, and then aligning those things to backward design using Understanding by Design has begun to impact almost every area of our school.

: Join for an enlightening exploration of how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the teaching landscape. In this breakout session, we'll dive into the myriad ways AI technology can empower educators and streamline their workflow. We will also focus on policies and procedures at the school level addressing these to support our students, teachers, and families.

(Presented by Dr. William Mott, Head of School at Saint Thomas' Episcopal School) The independent and faith-based governing board is critical to the effective strategic viability of the school. Their responsibilities for mission, vision, financial sustainability, support for the head of school, and strategic planning make this group essential to the future of the school. Therefore, their recruitment, onboarding, and continuing education result in the committee on trustees being the important committee of the board. This session will provide practical steps to ensure the school does a thorough job to reach out to the best possible board candidates and give attendees specific strategies and best practices to ensure long-term success. Each attendee will receive a free copy of my latest book, Healthy Boards, Successful Schools: The impact of Leadership on Independent and Faith-Based Schools.

(Presented by Pilar Kilgore, Director of Operations, Cathedral High School) How is it possible that in the midst of the technological boom we are living in, there seem to be so many schools either switching to a classical model or being build based on the classical model? What is classical education? How can "technology light" schools be successful and produce successful graduates? In this talk I will strive to show how an education based on the liberal arts, reading of primary sources, Latin, art, music, and following a traditional Trivium (grammar, logic, rhetoric), can be an answer to current problems with the improper use of technology and elimination of library resources in schools. Graduates of classical schools have historically been great scientists, philosophers, leaders, and all sorts of professions, even though this model has never truly gone away, it is now seeing a resurgence and many charter and private schools are adapting the model.

(Presented by Jarrett Kuhns, Principal, Archangel Gabriel Catholic School) One of the most critical responsibilities of school leadership is providing meaningful feedback to teachers that promotes professional growth and improved instructional practices. However, giving feedback that is both constructive and actionable can be a challenge, especially in an environment that seeks to balance accountability with support. This session will explore the art and science of delivering feedback to teachers in ways that foster a culture of trust, encourage self-reflection, and lead to continuous improvement in teaching practices. By drawing on evidence based frameworks, personal experiences, and real world examples, I will share practical strategies for school leaders to offer feedback that is clear, specific, and tied to goals. Additionally, participants will engage in dialogue with another to share ideas and network.

(Exhibitor session presented by PikMyKid). In the modern educational landscape, channeling the power of technology is crucial to creating an environment where safety and efficiency meet to provide an optimal school day for students, teachers, and staff. In this session, Pikmykid will delve into the innovative ways in which technology can be leveraged to expedite daily dismissal routines, avoid problematic hallway behavior, and employ silent communication methods to increase efficiency and safety. You will learn how to create a safer, more organized, and interconnected environment for your school and the community around you.

(Presented by Lori Tays, Vice-President, Mars Hill Bible School) A significant portion of enrollment discussion typically focuses on how to increase enrollment or reverse declining enrollment trends. But what happens when your school experiences a sudden or unexpected period of rapid growth? Mars Hill Bible School experienced a 43% enrollment increase across grades TK-12 in five years. This extraordinary growth period resulted in a cascade of consequences both positive and challenging. From capital projects to shifts in school culture, school leaders navigated the delicate nature of responsible growth. In this session, we will utilize personal experience and current research to address: Why these rapid trends may occur, steps you can take now to prepare your school for unexpected growth, what to do if you are in the middle of a rapid growth cycle, and pitfalls to avoid when your growth is accelerating quickly. By addressing these areas thoughtfully, school leaders can navigate the complexities of rapid enrollment growth while continuing to foster a culture of institutional integrity for students, families, and staff alike.

(Exhibitor Session) If you’ve ever wondered how your school’s engagement and volunteer program stacks up, this session is for you! In this workbook session we will walk you through an evaluation of your school’s family and parent engagement program based on our experience with hundreds of schools in the last 15 years. You’ll find out where your school excels, where you can improve, and see how other schools are managing their programs. You’ll also have the opportunity to share outcomes and receive feedback from peers in group discussions who are experiencing challenges just like yours.

(Presented by Dr. William Mott, Head of School, Saint Thomas Episcopal School) Strategic Planning has everything to do with ensuring that the school has a viable, sustainable future and that its vision is developed in such a way that strategically aligns with all facets of the school. All too often this process includes a lack of clarity of who does what in a realistic time frame. What is the board’s role? What is the school’s leadership role in the process? How does the mission factor into the plan? This session examines the critical steps necessary to create an effective template for planning and a process that guarantees that the plan will be implemented. This session is intended for heads, board members, senior leadership, and anyone who aspires to learn more about the culture of school leadership. The content will come principally from my book, Healthy Boards, Successful Schools: The Impact of Governance and Leadership on Independent and Faith-Based Schools.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Parent Pulse) Most private and independent schools consider parents an important part of their mission. But how often are they viewed as “customers?” Understanding their needs, wants and hopes can lead to better strategic alignment, more effective leadership and higher retention rates. During this session, we’ll help you identify your tendencies when it comes to navigating feedback, provide practical (and unique) ways to capture feedback from your parents, and explore the important dynamics of the "feedback loop."

From a kindergarten field trip to a week in Puerto Rico with the senior class, each trip off your campus requires planning, attention to detial, and execution.  This session will cover detials you should be thinking about for different age groups in the K-12 sector as well as different events.  We will discuss a timeline for booking larger trips, ways to save money on student funded trips, tips for growing student enjoyment, and so much more.  Ideas for field trips, atheltic trips, class trips, and even ice cream trips for a deserving class.  You don't need to fear going off your campus and instead you can use trips like this to improve your marketing and parent involvement.

The expression of kindness, patience, and empathy by teachers can profoundly impact student outcomes and overall classroom dynamics, effectively combating the myriad of challenges present in our schools. This session will provide educators with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to harness the transformative power of kindness, patience, and empathy in their teaching practice. The presenters will detail the positive impact these strategies have on student growth. By the end of this session, participants will understand the theoretical framework supporting the positive impact of kindness, patience, and empathy on student engagement, motivation, and academic performance. They will discover effective communication techniques, including active listening, so that they approach disciplinary issues and challenging conversations with students and colleagues in a way that prioritizes empathy, patience, and kindness in school culture

(Presented by Casey Robinson, Principal, Desert Christian Schools) We are in the child development business.  We are more than just academics.  We cannot ignore well being.  Thirty four percent of 9-12th graders say they are satisfied.  This is alarming.  How do we prepare them for life?  Twenty-eight percent are at a concerning level of very dissatisfied.  How can we improve life satisfaction?  It is with connectedness, joy, and mastery. Connectedness means being socially attached to the community.  School connectedness predicts future emotional health.  Schools need to create an environment where connectedness thrives thru relationships.  Schools can do this by creating bonding activities, teaching social skills, hiring teachers for their ability to connect, peer group advisories, etc..  Schools must also give faculty permission to spend time being relational.  The school community must commit to being a place where joy, fun, and happiness are infused into the daily experience of school.  Assessing the faculty is important. They need to treat  kids as humans and not just receivers of curriculum.  Teachers who are toxic do not have a place in a community of well being. Schools need "rally points."  These are touch points for the students, time with friends, breaks, pep rallys or assemblies, etc. Negative affect plus school stress will affect mastery, test scores, and well being.  Success following perseverance breeds confidence.  Students must have trials to learn.  They have to believe they can do it, even if they fail first.  

Trust is the single most significant indicator of successful leadership. When the components of trust are in place, the results include: Increased levels of student achievement, Higher faculty and staff retention rates, Reduction in student behavioral referrals, Reduction in operational costs, Improved levels of parent and community satisfaction, Increased levels of volunteerism by employees and parents. Participants have the opportunity to create an Action Plan in which they can adjust their current personal and organizational practices related to one or two of the “trust factors.”

(Presented by Scott Barron, Founder, School Growth) Teaching and leading others requires being present to build credibility and sustain trust.  Presence involves staying mentally in the room, in the moment, and in the mind, avoiding the temptation to wander elsewhere in reaction to the siren call of another distracting device, dysfunctional disruption, or duty demanding our attention. Educators who have mastered the discipline of presence are able to adapt their energy level and cadence, have a high degree of situational awareness, and are able sustain attention with wisdom to determine the right approach and response. In this workshop we will explore how to invest our attention and talents as administrators, teachers, and staff to deliver the most productive results. 

This practical professional development session is tailored for educators--whether in the classroom or front office--and focuses on the transformative power of self-leadership. This session will provide practical strategies to enhance physical well-being and energy levels through balanced diets, movement, and rest all while demonstrating effective teaching practices. Participants will learn to cultivate a positive inner dialogue, practice mindfulness to reduce stress, and adopt effective time management strategies in order to cultivate emotional well-being.

Learn how communicating with our stakeholders during any crisis requires pre-planning, timely and clear responses, an expression of caring and a commitment to a resolution. During this presentation, you will learn how to research the potential scenarios for a crisis, plan for a calculated response, implement data-driven tasks and evaluate how well the information was received by the community. A goal of crisis communications is to have seamless communication during the crisis and to articulately share with the school’s publics what has occurred. Types of crises that will be reviewed include public relations, natural disasters, cyber-attacks, security threats and other dangerous incidents. Examples of school crisis communication procedures and plans will be shared, as well as sample statements from schools and dioceses, plus templates for various scenarios. Learn how to use your FACTS management systemt to support these efforts and assist with seamless communication.

Looking to take that next step into a school leadership role but don’t know where to begin?  In this relatable session, you will hear the account of one school administrator’s triumphs and failures and the wisdom he has gained along the way.  Come take away valuable lessons and practical advice that will help you on your way to the top!

Newton's Arcade puts students’ knowledge of physics into action by having them build an arcade game that demonstrates one or more of Newton’s Laws of Motion. Through this project, students practice many skills, including creative problem-solving, budgeting, building, and public speaking.

(Presented by Deb Dejong, Nampa Christian Schools) In this session, Deb will share the journey Nampa Christian has been on that has transformed: how and why we plan, how and why we assess, how we think about curriculum and teaching, and we think about almost everything else! Beginning with our mission and vision, creating a Portrait of a Graduate, and then aligning those things to backward design using Understanding by Design has begun to impact almost every area of our school.

Young children express their needs through behavior, but challenging behaviors can disrupt learning and create stress for educators. This session explores the reasons behind common challenging behaviors and provides developmentally appropriate strategies to foster positive interactions, emotional regulation, and a supportive classroom environment.

Clear and positive communication is essential for fostering strong relationships with young children, families, and colleagues. This session provides practical strategies to enhance verbal and nonverbal communication, navigate difficult conversations, and create a supportive learning environment that encourages collaboration and trust.

Social-emotional learning (SEL) lays the foundation for young children’s success in school and life. This session explores practical ways to help early learners develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and positive relationships. Educators will gain hands-on strategies to create a warm, supportive environment where children feel safe, valued, and ready to learn.

Play is the heart of early childhood education, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and social-emotional skills. This session explores the science behind purposeful play and provides practical strategies to design engaging, developmentally appropriate play experiences that support learning across all domains.

This session is meant to fill the toolbox of leaders and teachers alike who are looking to make relationship building a priority in their organizations and classrooms. We will explore a variety of strategies for building positive relationships and reflect on how that impacts the organizational culture. We will also dive in for a deeper understanding of relationship and trust building specifically for students from traumatic backgrounds.

The Everything-arium, transforms the library into an immersive experience inspired by a chosen book. Through curated videos, tailored presentations for different grade levels, ambient music, evocative scents, and more, Dr. Kahn brings the book’s world to life.

In this session we will explore a variety of AI-powered applications that streamline lesson planning, enhance classroom engagement, support personalized learning, and simplify administrative tasks. Whether you're a seasoned tech user or just starting to explore the world of AI, this session will equip you with practical strategies and resources to integrate AI seamlessly into your daily teaching. 

(Exhibitor Session presented by Alpaca Packs) When Valley Forge Academy wanted to learn more about their educators’ wellbeing, they turned to a new idea: semantic pulse check-ins. Learn how Valley Forge used new technology to listen to their teachers every month, find ideas for targeted support, and create truly delightful staff celebrations.

Third-grade social studies standards specify that students should be able to explain how a business operates. To help students better understand these concepts, Anna Leigh implemented a hands-on project where they learn this process by researching business ideas, creating a budget, raising capital, implementing an advertising plan, and designing and selling their products.

When asked to teach study hall, Lillian saw an opportunity. Synergy Squad was born, providing students with a dynamic space to harness the power of technology and cultivate essential research skills to solve real-world challenges related to the environment, justice, and more.

(Presented by Kendall Naceanceno, Director of Academics, Jackson Christian School) This presentation will explore practical strategies for incorporating standards-based principles into traditional grading, offering methods to adjust the way grades are reported based on the standards to help teachers accurately report student learning, prioritize mastery of concepts, and provide more meaningful feedback on student progress. The purpose of grading should be to accurately report student learning based on clearly defined course standards. However, traditional methods of grading are typically influenced by non-cognitive factors like behavior and effort. While understanding these work-related behaviors is important, they often skew the perceptions of student success and are not good indicators of actual subject knowledge. To better align grading practices with student learning, much discussion and research in the last few decades have centered on standards-based grading (SBG). However, implementing SBG has presented numerous challenges for both educators and families due to the drastic changes in the way grades, under the standards-based framework, are collected and reported. Furthermore, implementing SBG with fidelity requires multiple years of refinement and professional development, making it a daunting initiative for any school. Yet, school leaders and teachers can still place an emphasis on standards and create grading practices that reflect student mastery by thoughtfully adjusting traditional grading methods and the grade book.

In today's rapidly changing world, our education system can no longer afford to rely on one-size-fits-all approaches, especially when it comes to neurodivergent learners. Every child possesses a unique blend of talents, and it's time we go beyond labels to unlock their true potential. "Beyond Labels: Nurturing Potential Through Individualized Education Plans" is a call to action for educators, administrators, and policymakers to rethink how we support neurodivergent students, ensuring every child's strengths are recognized and celebrated.Drawing from over a decade of hands-on experience in establishing inclusive learning environments, Pam will share how crafting effective IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) can transform the educational experience for neurodivergent learners. By integrating evidence-based practices such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Direct Instruction, and mindfulness, we can create an empowering pathway that goes beyond mere accommodation to genuine empowerment.This session will offer actionable strategies, real-world success stories, and a fresh perspective on how educators can collaborate with families to champion a child's journey. Together, we can build an education system that celebrates every learner's infinite possibilities, transforming the way we view neurodiversity. Let's break free from labels to redefine the future of inclusive education.

This session will explore what conditions help the brain learn the best, and articulate the 'why' behind those conditions. Participants will be able to describe specific strategies during each component of a learning cycle that will increase opportunities for learning and regulation.

(Presented by Pilar Kilgore, Director of Operations, Cathedral High School) How is it possible that in the midst of the technological boom we are living in, there seem to be so many schools either switching to a classical model or being build based on the classical model? What is classical education? How can "technology light" schools be successful and produce successful graduates? In this talk I will strive to show how an education based on the liberal arts, reading of primary sources, Latin, art, music, and following a traditional Trivium (grammar, logic, rhetoric), can be an answer to current problems with the improper use of technology and elimination of library resources in schools. Graduates of classical schools have historically been great scientists, philosophers, leaders, and all sorts of professions, even though this model has never truly gone away, it is now seeing a resurgence and many charter and private schools are adapting the model.

Research shows that teacher clarity yields a .84 effect size, but what IS teacher clarity and how can you achieve this in your building?  Join Melissa as she explains what it is and demonstrates how to achieve it in three steps. You'll leave understanding that teacher clarity is critical for Tier One excellence, and how effective use can save time spend reteaching, increase mastery, and support student self-regulation. You’ll leave with  an easy-to-use template to help you work smarter, not harder and help your students achieve success.  

Students often ask: Why are we reading this literature? How does this book (story, poem, etc.) relate to me? When teachers design inquiry units through guiding questions and multicultural text sets, we motivate students to make text-to-self, text-to-text, and text-to world connections. By reading texts that offer diverse perspectives on the guiding questions, students gain insights into their own lives as well as other people’s lives, places, and times. In this workshop, Dr. Beverly Chin shows examples of inquiry units with though-provoking guiding questions and multicultural, multi-genre text sets. She also shares reading strategies and writing invitations that engage students as critical readers, creative writers, and empathetic learners. This workshop emphasizes the value of teaching interdisciplinary units in English Language Arts and Social Studies/History.

This presentation explores how educators can effectively implement differentiated instruction while utilizing emerging technologies and AI tools to enhance student learning outcomes. Drawing from research-backed methodologies and practical classroom experience, we'll examine the four key pillars of differentiation: Content, Process, Product, and Learning Space.

(Exhibitor Session presented by Pam Furr, CEO & Founder, Puzzle Box Academy) Discover how to revolutionize your classroom and unlock the full potential of every student in our session, "Elevate Education: Transforming Classrooms with Innovation and Inclusivity." Join Tracey Duharte and Pamela Furr as they unveil proven strategies for managing diverse classrooms, enhancing student engagement, and driving academic success. Packed with real-world success stories and data-backed insights, this session offers practical tools to create inclusive, high-performing learning environments. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or advocate for neurodiverse learners, this talk will leave you inspired and equipped to make transformative changes in education. Don’t miss the chance to elevate your teaching and create lasting impact!

This session is designed to bridge that gap, empowering teachers with the knowledge, tools, and strategies they need to create inclusive and supportive learning environments for students with ADHD. It will also highlight the importance of distinguishing ADHD from other conditions with overlapping symptoms, such as trauma or learning disabilities, to ensure appropriate interventions.

Join Dr. Monica Burns, author of EdTech Essentials, as we explore the ways in which ChatGPT can revolutionize the way you work. When used strategically, this tool can accelerate your workflow, not substitute your role as an educator, as it helps to streamline your daily tasks and save time in the process. In this session, you will learn how to use ChatGPT, and what prompts and questions to try out, as you explore the power, potential, and possibilities of artificial intelligence for educator productivity.

This session will cover strategies for collecting and analyzing data so educators can take action through instructional pivots and interventions. We will focus on formative assessment and how to check for understanding before, during, and aer instruction. Participants will explore how digital tools provide a special benefit for students as they increase student opportunities (frequency) and options (choice) to share their learning.

This session highlights Classroom's evolution over ten years, its extensive use globally, and its integration with other Google tools. We will go over details on ways Classroom enhances teaching and learning by empowering educators, enabling students, and supercharging leaders through various features, including AI-powered tools and accessibility options. Furthermore, we address key issues like educator burnout and cybersecurity, positioning Google Workspace as a comprehensive and secure solution.

This session will provide background, research, and a deep understanding of what Orton Gillingham reading intervention is and how it supports students with dyslexia. This session constitutes the introduction to Orton Gillinham training. Participants in this training will sharpen their understanding of reading intervention and will have the foundation to proceed through the levels of Orton Gillingham training.

The expression of kindness, patience, and empathy by teachers can profoundly impact student outcomes and overall classroom dynamics, effectively combating the myriad of challenges present in our schools. This session will provide educators with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to harness the transformative power of kindness, patience, and empathy in their teaching practice. The presenters will detail the positive impact these strategies have on student growth. By the end of this session, participants will understand the theoretical framework supporting the positive impact of kindness, patience, and empathy on student engagement, motivation, and academic performance. They will discover effective communication techniques, including active listening, so that they approach disciplinary issues and challenging conversations with students and colleagues in a way that prioritizes empathy, patience, and kindness in school culture

This practical professional development session is tailored for educators--whether in the classroom or front office--and focuses on the transformative power of self-leadership. This session will provide practical strategies to enhance physical well-being and energy levels through balanced diets, movement, and rest all while demonstrating effective teaching practices. Participants will learn to cultivate a positive inner dialogue, practice mindfulness to reduce stress, and adopt effective time management strategies in order to cultivate emotional well-being.

Do some of your students write short, choppy sentences?  Are you looking for an effective way to help students write more interesting sentences and think more carefully about their writing purpose and audience?  Dr. Beverly Ann Chin demonstrates how the strategy of sentence expansion supports students as they revise their writing and deepen their thinking.  She also shows how this strategy smoothly integrates writing instruction with grammar/punctuation instruction.  A research-based strategy, sentence expansion can be used with writers at all grade levels and in different content areas.  It is especially valuable for differentiated literacy instruction and English Language Learners. Throughout this interactive workshop, Dr. Chin engages teachers and enables them to create their own sentence expansion activities.  

Are you looking for effective ways to create a classroom environment that fosters both positivity and productivity? Join us for this breakout-session designed to equip educators with practical classroom management strategies that can transform their teaching experience and boost student engagement. During this session, we will explore: 1) Proven techniques to establish clear expectations and routines that reduce disruptions. 2) Ways to build positive relationships with students to enhance mutual respect and collaboration. 3) Practical tools to address challenging behaviors while maintaining a supportive atmosphere. 4) Tips for creating an inclusive classroom that meets diverse student needs. Whether you’re a new teacher seeking foundational strategies or an experienced educator looking to refine your approach, this webinar offers actionable insights you can implement immediately.

Explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on teachers' weekly tasks. Learn to leverage new generative AI tools like Chat GPT and others to create personalized lesson plans, rubrics, and more, and foster interactive and effective learning experiences for students. We’ll also explore ways to make your class assignments more robust against student misuse of AI.

Are you a district leader, principal, or instructional coach struggling to find time in the school day to support students who aren’t succeeding with grade-level instruction? If you answered yes, then this is the session for you. Participants will learn how think outside of the box to use both human, time, and material resources to ensure appropriate time and resources are provided to those students who need added supports in addition to core instruction time.

Social studies teachers are passionate about bringing history to life for their students, yet even experts sometimes find it challenging to delve into the intricate details of certain historical documents. How do we decide what’s most relevant, memorable, and impactful? To inspire learning, we need more than a “one page ahead” approach—we need the ability to truly unpack and convey complex content. This session introduces an exciting use of ChatGPT and MagicSchoolAI, offering teachers innovative tools to deepen their own understanding of dense historical documents and transform them into high-quality, student-ready materials. This isn’t about student-use of AI; it’s a hands-on exploration of how educators can harness these emerging technologies to design dynamic, accessible lessons that captivate students and boost literacy and comprehension.

Managing diverse student behaviors is one of the most significant challenges teachers face in today’s classrooms. This session offers educators evidence-based strategies to address common behavioral issues, promote positive student engagement, and build supportive classroom environments. Understanding the root causes of behavior—whether stemming from trauma, neurodiversity, or social-emotional needs—is crucial to fostering an inclusive learning space where all students can thrive.