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Aledo ISD Empower 2026
Welcome to Aledo ISD’s Summer Learning Academy!
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Friday, May 29
 

8:30am CDT

Lead the Way, Capture the Heart: Aligning LEAD with the EXCEL Model
FULL
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
What happens when Aledo ISD’s LEAD statement meets the relationship-driven practices of Capturing Kids’ Hearts? Powerful classrooms where leadership, connection, and purpose thrive. In this session, educators will examine the alignment between the LEAD statement and the EXCEL model and discover practical strategies for embedding both into everyday classroom practice. Participants will leave with clear connections and actionable ideas to help students grow as learners and leaders.
Speakers
avatar for Maggie Lozano

Maggie Lozano

Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD
Maggie Lozano is a passionate literacy leader committed to strengthening foundational reading and writing instruction in classrooms. She partners with teachers to use data-driven practices to identify student needs, design targeted interventions, and close literacy gaps. In addition... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
B108

8:30am CDT

Building Meaning Before Reading
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this session, teachers will explore how effective pre-reading strategies can help Emergent Bilingual (EB) students access grade-level texts with greater confidence and comprehension. Participants will learn how to intentionally build background knowledge, preview academic vocabulary, activate prior experiences, and use visuals and structured discussion to develop meaning before students encounter a text.
Speakers
avatar for Cathy Williams

Cathy Williams

Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD

avatar for Catalina Rossi

Catalina Rossi

ESL Lead
I am originally from Colombia, and Spanish is my first language. Before entering education, I worked as an architect for eight years. I began my teaching career as a substitute teacher and tutor at Birdville ISD, then became a bilingual teacher at Fort Worth ISD. For the past six... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
B104

8:30am CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K–5): Differentiation Strategies Built Into the Curriculum
FILLING
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Limited Capacity filling up
In this session, teachers will explore the built-in differentiation features within Amplify Desmos Math that support all learners. Participants will examine how mini lessons, centers, and extension activities can be used within each unit to support, strengthen, and stretch student thinking.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsey Rutherford

Lindsey Rutherford

4th Grade Math/Science Teacher
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
A103
  Math

8:30am CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K–5): Navigating the Platform & Exploring Your New Curriculum
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Get an introduction to Amplify Desmos Math, our newly adopted K–5 math curriculum. In this hands-on session, teachers will explore the digital teacher platform while becoming familiar with the structure and key components of the program. Participants will have time to interact with the teacher materials, examine lesson resources, and navigate the tools that support planning and instruction. By the end of the session, teachers will feel more confident locating resources, understanding how lessons are organized, and beginning to envision how the curriculum will support student learning in their classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Deanne Torres

Deanne Torres

Math Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Library
  Math

8:30am CDT

Let’s Talk STEMscopes! Language & Vocabulary Supports for Math Success
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Join us as we dive into the vocabulary supports and supplemental resources available through STEMscopes! This session will highlight tools designed to strengthen core instruction and help support the transition to our new math curriculum for grades 6–Algebra 1. Walk away with ideas and resources you can start using right away.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Lyle

Emily Lyle

Math Teacher, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
B109
  Math

8:30am CDT

Simple is as Simple does at the Teacher Table
FILLING
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Limited Capacity filling up
Knowing what to do to grow readers and writers can be daunting. Taking a systematic and explicit approach can guarantee success for students and teachers alike. In this session, we will explore how progress monitoring can guide instruction and help form flexible student groups at the teacher table, allowing teachers to respond to student needs in real time. Participants will also learn how to leverage the instructional resources they already have, eliminating the need to spend time and money searching for endless supplemental materials. New approaches can feel overwhelming, but growth is the goal. Are you ready to grow?
Speakers
avatar for Katie Harbour

Katie Harbour

First Grade Teacher, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
B112

10:15am CDT

Amplify Desmos Math 3–5: Inside the Math Block (Model Lesson)
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
What does a strong math block look like with our new Amplify curriculum? In this practical, hands-on session, teachers will experience the structure of an Amplify math lesson by participating in a model math block. As we move through each component, we’ll unpack the purpose of each part of the lesson and explore how it fits into your daily instructional time. By the end of the session, teachers will have a clear understanding of the different elements of Amplify and feel confident organizing their own math block to make the most of the curriculum.
Speakers
avatar for Marissa Torres

Marissa Torres

Aledo ISD
Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B108
  Math

10:15am CDT

Amplify Desmos Math K–2: Inside the Math Block (Model Lesson)
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
What does a strong math block look like with our new Amplify curriculum? In this practical, hands-on session, teachers will experience the structure of an Amplify math lesson by participating in a model math block. As we move through each component, we’ll unpack the purpose of each part of the lesson and explore how it fits into your daily instructional time. By the end of the session, teachers will have a clear understanding of the different elements of Amplify and feel confident organizing their own math block to make the most of the curriculum.
Speakers
avatar for Barb Williams

Barb Williams

Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
A103
  Math

10:15am CDT

Figuring out Fluency
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Let’s explore how to build true mathematical fluency in Grades 3–5! You will learn how to move beyond memorization by developing student accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility through engaging fluency routines, mathematical discourse, and strategy-based instruction. Participants will leave with practical tools to strengthen multiplication and division fluency while supporting diverse learners.
Speakers
avatar for Stacey Roberson

Stacey Roberson

3rd Grade Math, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B206
  Math

10:15am CDT

Stemscopes Math (6–Alg I): Making Math Relevant Through Real-World Connections
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover how Stemscopes Math connects mathematical concepts to meaningful, real-world contexts. In this session, teachers will explore how the curriculum embeds relevance through problem situations, phenomena, and applications that help students see the purpose behind the mathematics they are learning. Participants will examine examples from the curriculum and discuss how these connections can deepen student engagement and understanding while supporting rigorous mathematical thinking.
Speakers
avatar for Skye Lindgron

Skye Lindgron

6th & 7th Math Teacher, Aledo Middle School
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
A105
  Math

10:15am CDT

Active Literacy: High Engagement Strategies for PreK–2 Readers
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
How do we ensure every child is thinking, responding, and learning during foundational literacy lessons? In this session, teachers will explore engagement strategies based on the explicit instruction practices of Anita Archer. Through modeling and collaborative practice, participants will experience routines that increase opportunities for student responses, support active participation, and strengthen early reading instruction in PreK–2 classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Audra Ellerbusch

Audra Ellerbusch

Early Literacy Specialist, Aledo ISD
I am entering my 24rd year in education with a deep passion for teaching Reading and Language Arts and empowering young learners. As a proud mom of four amazing boys and a wife of 25 years, I cherish both my family and my career. My heart is in literacy education, and I am dedicated... Read More →
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B201

10:15am CDT

Ignite, Engage, Inspire: Driving Instruction Through Rigor and Relevance
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Join us for a dynamic learning session where you'll explore engaging instructional strategies that spark student thinking and creativity. Discover how to make the Rigor and Relevance Rubric the driving force behind meaningful, impactful instruction.
Throughout our time together, you'll experience a variety of high-energy, student-centered activities you can take back to your classroom immediately. Whether you're looking to boost engagement, deepen rigor, or make learning more relevant and memorable, this session will leave you inspired and equipped to transform your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Kristee Allen

Kristee Allen

Teacher, Aledo ISD
Finishing year 26 in the classroom and year 3 in Aledo ISD. I am passionate about trying and adapting new things to engage students in their learning.
You can always ask me about my pug!
avatar for Donna Bonaldi

Donna Bonaldi

Teacher, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B104

10:15am CDT

Many Goals, One Classroom: The Workshop Model in a Resource Setting
FILLING
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
Limited Capacity filling up
This session focuses on using the workshop model in a resource setting to effectively address multiple IEP goals within a single classroom. Participants will explore how structured routines and targeted small-group instruction allow teachers to individualize instruction, provide specific skill-based interventions, and deliver immediate feedback aligned to student goals. Emphasis is placed on practical strategies for managing diverse needs, flexible grouping, and goal-driven instruction to support student progress.
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B202

10:15am CDT

Winning at WIN- Connect Map and IXL
FILLING
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
Limited Capacity filling up
Discover how to use MAP data alongside IXL to form targeted student groups and intentionally plan instruction. Move beyond the recommended skill path to design focused, meaningful lessons that drive real growth—while saving valuable planning time.
Speakers
avatar for Brandy Arnold

Brandy Arnold

5th Grade Math, Aledo ISD
I love teaching Math, but mostly I teach so that I can help kids feel valued and important. I have taught all grades 5-8th grade and also Pre-K. I love creating things and making learning fun and engaging.
Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
A101

1:00pm CDT

From Simple to Strategic: Advancing Questioning Practices in Early Learning
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores how intentional, high-level questioning can strengthen thinking, engagement, and language development in early childhood classrooms. Participants will examine the research and background behind effective questioning strategies and why moving beyond simple recall questions is essential for supporting deeper learning in young children.
Speakers
avatar for Cathy Remigio

Cathy Remigio

1st Grade Teacher
avatar for Katie Harbour

Katie Harbour

First Grade Teacher, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B108

1:00pm CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K–5): Differentiation Strategies Built Into the Curriculum
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this session, teachers will explore the built-in differentiation features within Amplify Desmos Math that support all learners. Participants will examine how mini lessons, centers, and extension activities can be used within each unit to support, strengthen, and stretch student thinking.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsey Rutherford

Lindsey Rutherford

4th Grade Math/Science Teacher
Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Library
  Math

1:00pm CDT

Stay Stong, End Smart: Engagement & Closures That Actually Work
FULL
Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
The first and last five minutes of a lesson can make or break student learning. In this session, participants will learn simple, high-impact engagement and closure strategies that promote student thinking, support language development, and extend learning for gifted students, without adding extra prep. Teachers will leave with tools they can use immediately in any classroom.
Speakers
Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B109

1:00pm CDT

Beyond the Classroom: Integrating GT and ESL Learning Through VR
FULL
Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
This session explores how virtual reality can be used to integrate Gifted and Talented and ESL instruction through immersive, language-rich learning experiences. Participants will learn how VR supports higher-level thinking, inquiry, and creativity while providing visual and contextual supports that enhance language development and access for English learners. Teachers will leave with practical strategies for using VR to extend learning beyond the classroom for diverse student populations.

Speakers
avatar for Emily Mooney

Emily Mooney

GT Specialist- Stuard & Vandagriff Elementaries, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
A109

2:45pm CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K-2): mClass and Boost Learning
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore how mCLASS and Boost Learning support instruction within Amplify Desmos Math for K–2 students. This session will provide an overview of how these tools connect to the curriculum and support student learning, progress monitoring, and targeted practice. Participants will learn about key features of each platform and how they can be used to strengthen early numeracy development. Teachers will also have time to explore the platforms themselves to become more familiar with the tools and resources available to support their students.
Speakers
avatar for Deanne Torres

Deanne Torres

Math Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
A103
  Math

2:45pm CDT

Light Up Learning with IXL Spark Studio
LIMITED
Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore IXL Spark Studio to enhance classroom instruction, practice, and review. In this session, teachers will learn how to effectively navigate Spark Studio and design interactive, engaging activities that make practice and review meaningful and enjoyable for students. The session will also highlight strategies for using the tool to differentiate instruction and support both English Language Learners and Gifted & Talented students.  This is a repeat session from February 13th PL.
Speakers
avatar for Tammy Schank

Tammy Schank

Math Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD
Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B108
  Math

2:45pm CDT

Empowering Educators: Morphological Strategies and Tools for Supporting Struggling Readers with Vocabulary and Comprehension
FULL
Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
Unlock ways to support all readers across content areas in this empowering session. Explore strategies and practical tools to help struggling readers — including those with dyslexia, specific learning disabilities (SLD), emerging bilinguals (EB), and even gifted learners (GT) — reach their full potential using morphology to enhance vocabulary and comprehension.

Speakers
avatar for Amber Jaime

Amber Jaime

Dyslexia Specialist, AISD--Vandagriff Elementary
Dyslexia Specialist at Vanda C.A.L.P. Wrapping up my 20th year as an educator, my 9th year serving students with Dyslexia.
Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B107
 
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