2017 Educator Conference Topic Descriptions

Session 1 - 9:55-10:40

Making Bioplastics - Room 7365
In this workshop participants will discuss how to implement constructivist activities
into the math and science classroom, and they will produce a sample of a bioplastic
material made from common baking ingredients.

Jerry Ridgeway

Inclusion: The What, Why, and How? - Room 7370
A discussion on inclusion and inclusive practices. Student will learn what inclusion
means, looks like, and how to overcome challenges related to inclusion for all students.

Mira Williams

It's Gravity Powered - STEM Driven! - Room 7355

STEM & STEAM project based learning. By attending this session, participants will learn
about content such as, PHYSICAL SCIENCE (scientific inquiry, forces, motion, simple
machines, gravity, mass, friction, speed, kinetic and potential energy). TECHNOLOGY
(research, critical thinking, innovation, problem solving, collaboration,
communications. ENGINEERING (Define problem and needs, test, refine, develop
solutions, communicate, and evaluate. Manufacturing, Engineering & Design emphasis),
ARTS (Visual and fine arts, creating, presenting, producing, connecting), MATHEMATICS
(Measurement, basic math, geometry, data analysis, weight, time, problem solving).
Frankie Gilmore

Moving Students from Passively to Actively Engaged Learners - Room 7360

Discuss how to take existing lessons and transform them into active, meaningful
learning experiences for all students. (Grades 6-12)
Robbie L. Higdon, Ph.D

Brain-based Learning and Technology in the Classroom - Room 6125
This presentation covers the importance of images in brain-based learning and how to
use activities and technologies in the classroom that promote brain-based learning.
Dr. Diane Wilcox and Diana Meza

Session 2 - 10:50-11:35

Probability, Dice, Addition - Room 7365

Figuring out the Odds:
In elementary math there are a lot of opportunities to explore mathematical ideas
through the use of games. This session will focus on the way one simple dice rolling
activity can be used to explore multiple mathematical concepts.
Dr. Eric Imbrescia
 Best Free Apps for Teachers - Room 7355
The Best Apps for Teaching and Learning foster the qualities of innovation, creativity,
active participation, and collaboration to encourage a community of learners to explore
and discover. Discover how they can engage your students and support creativity,
collaboration and critical-thinking skills.
Lisa Castellano

How to Use Learning Strategies When Working with ELLs - Room 7370
This presentation will share techniques for verbal, procedural, and instructional
scaffolding and how to apply them for your lesson plans. In addition, we will discuss
student learning strategies and how to maximize them when working with English
Language Learners. While these strategies are universal, the examples and emphasis
will be on English Language Learners' succeed in your class.
Dr. Katya Koubek

The Key to Unlocking Student Potential - Room 7360

Come prepared to laugh, cry and hear what's really important in becoming a great
teacher.
Phil Catania
Session 3 - 11:45-12:15

What I Wish I Wouldve Known as a First Year Teacher - Room 7360

The first year can be daunting, tough, crazy, and fun all rolled into one. Come hear some
tips, tricks, and ideas to help make the first year of your teaching career a little easier
with some insight from someone who has taught Elementary, Middle, and High School.
Alyssa Green

BICS & CALP: Supporting Academic Language Acquisition for English Language Learners - Rm 7355
Participants will be able to define the terms BICS & CALP and discuss their importance in
the classroom. Participants will be able to practice the use of one graphic organizer that
aids in academic vocabulary learning.
Lisa Schick

Beyond Sombreros, Chopsticks, and Hijabs - Room 7370

Breaking Down Outdated Constructions of Culture: The purpose of this presentation is to
broaden teachers' understanding of culture beyond the context of nationality, ethnicity
and religion.
Dr. Ruthie Bosch

Comparing the Common Core and VAs Standards of Learning - Room 7365
What you need to know! - In this interactive session we will examine the similarities and
differences between the Common Core State Standards and Virginia SOLs for
Elementary Teachers. Whether you plan to teach in VA or in another state, this session
will provide important instructional and interview information for future classroom
teachers.
 Joy Myers

Session 4 - 1:30-2:15

Differentiation Strategies Using Blooms Taxonomy - Room 7370

Learn how to differentiate your lessons to meet the needs of all of your students.
Lynn Stawchansky

Graduated Now What? Tips on Resumes, Interviews, and Survival Tactics for Your First Year of
Teaching - Room 7360
This session will provide practical tips on creating resumes that stand out from those of
other applicants, presenting your best self in an educational interview and navigating
your first year of teaching successfully.
Suzanne Evans

Engaging and Motivating Students - Room 7365

All students want to learn and are eager to participate...Right? A few ways to engage
and motivate all learners in our classrooms.
Jill Hart

Teaching Science - Room 7355

Relationship building, teaching content, and school dynamics in the secondary science
classroom.
Laura Porter
Session 5 - 2:25-3:15

The Social/Cultural Impacts on Student Performance in School - Room 7365

Katie Shifflett

The Value of Relationships with Co-workers, Students, and Families - Room 7370
Tammy May

M&M Math - Room 7355

Incorporating movement and manipulatives in Algebra.
Lauren Heberling

What I Wish I Wouldve Known as a First Year Teacher - Room 7360

The first year can be daunting, tough, crazy, and fun all rolled into one. Come hear some
tips, tricks, and ideas to help make the first year of your teaching career a little easier
with some insight from someone who has taught Elementary, Middle, and High School.
Alyssa Green

Using Data to Screen for Risk and Monitor Progress - Room 6125
We will discuss the role of screening tests and common measures, how to select and
develop assessment tools to monitor progress, and graphing and self-monitoring data to
enhance motivation. Dr. Laura Desportes