Aledo ISD Empower 2026

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

B109

Limited Capacity seats available

For years, stations have gotten a bad reputation:

“They’re chaotic.”

“Students aren’t really learning.”

“I can’t meet with every group.”

“It’s too much prep.”

“I don’t have the resources.”

But what if stations aren’t the problem — just the system?

This session will help K-2 teachers lose the negative mindset about stations in 10 practical, doable, classroom-ready literacy stations.

Speakers

Julie Johnson

2nd grade teacher

Shara Hetherington

2nd grade Teacher, McCall Elementary

Carrie Young

2nd Grade Teacher, Aledo ISD

Sophie Collins

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B109

Classroom Management

Audience PreK-2nd
Subject Cross-disciplinary
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

10:15am CDT

I have an answer, do you have a question?

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

B112

Limited Capacity filling up

In this session, you will explore powerful strategies for helping learners at all levels develop high-level, curiosity-driven questions that promote deeper understanding and critical thinking. Together, we'll uncover ways to build a classroom culture where students feel confident, motivated, and excited to generate their own meaningful questions. You'll leave with ready-to-use techniques, engaging activities, and a renewed sense of inspiration to spark curiosity and elevate inquiry in your classroom!

Speakers

Robin Newkirk

7th grade science teacher, Aledo Middle School

I have been teaching for 19 years. I am currently a 7th grade science teacher at AMS and just completed my 8th year there. Building relationship with my school community is very important to me.

Adriane Jenkins

7th Grade Teacher - Aledo Middle School

7th Grade Science - Aledo ISD
I am finishing year 12 in Education. 5 years were at the Elementary level teaching Science, Social Studies, and Math. This year I finished my 7th year in Middle School Science. My passion is encouraging students to use their strengths to find success in the classroom and int... Read More →

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B112

Cross-disciplinary

Company High-level Questioning
Audience 6th-8th
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

10:15am CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K–5): Navigating the Platform & Exploring Your New Curriculum

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

Lecture Hall

Limited Capacity filling up

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

Deanne Torres

Math Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
Lecture Hall

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

10:15am CDT

Fluent and Fearless

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

B108

Limited Capacity seats available

Teachers will implement a consistent five-minute daily fluency routine, followed by targeted word work that reinforces grade-appropriate phonics and syllabication skills—supporting automaticity, accuracy, and deeper meaning-making. This work lays the foundation to build higher level vocabulary knowledge that cultivates fluent and fearless readers.

Speakers

Hannah McConnell

Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Tiffany Stokes

Tiffany Stokes is a 4th grade Reading/Language Arts and Social Studies teacher at Vandagriff Elementary in Aledo, Texas. This year, she was honored to receive the 2023 Marvas Collins AISD Teacher of the Year. She is a graduate of the University of North Texas who loves being a teacher... Read More →

Kaylee Jones

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B108

Audience 3rd-5th
Subject Fluency
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, GT, ESL

10:15am CDT

Writing with Checklists

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

A107

Limited Capacity seats available

Learn how to empower your students to write their best using a checklist!

Speakers

Lara Blanchard

Sherie Griswold

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
A107

Audience 3rd-5th
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

10:15am CDT

Glow & Grow: Making Writing Feedback Work

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

B106

Limited Capacity seats available

Join us to explore how meaningful feedback can transform student writing! In this session, we’ll dive into teacher-led conferences, peer-to-peer feedback, and using Magic School to provide structured, actionable comments. Participants will learn strategies for building a culture of accountable talk, guiding students to give and receive “glows and grows,” and supporting all learners, including gifted and ESL students, through targeted, growth-focused feedback. Walk away with practical tools to make writing conferences engaging, efficient, and truly impactful.

Speakers

Hope Tuel

6th - 8th ESL, Aledo ISD

Emily Kelley

5th Grade RLA, Walsh Elementary

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B106

Student Feedback

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th
Subject Reading/Language Arts
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, GT, ESL

10:15am CDT

Yes, you CANVA!

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

A101

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Create It, Teach It: Join us as we explore and create lessons utilizing Canva to enhance student engagement and achievement. A portion of this session will be focused on a Canva "Make and Take" to better prepare you for the upcoming school year.

Speakers

Stacey Utley

1st Grade Teacher

Maggie Tass

Jennifer Sarvis

1st Grade Teacher

Ashton Adams

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
A101

Technology

Audience PreK-2nd, 9th-12th
Subject Student Engagement
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

1:00pm CDT

Small Moves, Big Gains Part 1

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

B201

Limited Capacity seats available

Small Moves Big Gains, by Nancy Motley, Seidlitz Senior Educational Consultant, focuses on how small, everyday teacher habits can increase student talk, deepen thinking, and improve learning. This session highlights simple, high-impact strategies that make classrooms more interactive, language-rich, and student-centered — without adding extra work. You’ll leave with practical ideas you can use right away to help students talk more, think more, and achieve more.

Speakers

Kayla Cope

ESL Program Specialist, Aledo ISD Administration

Hi Bearcats!I'm excited to be starting my 24th year in public education and my 14th year as an ESL Specialist. It’s a true privilege to support the Emerging Bilingual families and staff of Aledo ISD!I began my teaching career in College Station ISD, working with 5th and 6th grade... Read More →

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B201

Academic Discussion

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, Administrators, PreK-2nd
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX

1:00pm CDT

From Surface to Synthesis: Two Power Routines for Deeper Thinking

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

B206

Limited Capacity filling up

In this interactive workshop, teachers will learn two research-based questioning routines that help students ask better questions, make meaningful connections, and think more deeply about content. By using protagonists, participants will explore the Question Pencil Routine—a framework that helps students generate intentional questions across eight question stems—and the Hexagonal Questioning Routine—a collaborative strategy that makes conceptual connections visible and builds higher-order thinking skills. Through hands-on practice, teachers will discover how to implement these routines in their classrooms, scaffold for diverse learners (including English language learners), and use these strategies to guide student inquiry and learning. Perfect for teachers seeking to move beyond surface-level questions and foster genuine curiosity and engagement!

Speakers

Hannah McConnell

Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Zan Banks

4th Grade RLA/SS

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B206

High-level Questioning

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, PreK-2nd
Subject Cross-disciplinary
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

1:00pm CDT

Amplify Desmos Math 3–5: Inside the Math Block (Model Lesson)

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

B210

Limited Capacity filling up

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

Marissa Torres

Aledo ISD

Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B210

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

1:00pm CDT

Amplify Desmos Math K–2: Inside the Math Block (Model Lesson)

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

Library

Limited Capacity filling up

Speakers

Barb Williams

Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Library

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

1:00pm CDT

Stemscopes Success: Navigate, Plan, Teach

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

B104

Limited Capacity seats available

Get an introduction to Stemscopes Math, our newly adopted curriculum for grades 6 through Algebra I. In this session, teachers will explore the digital platform and gain an overview of how the curriculum is organized to support instruction. Participants will be guided through key features of the site, including where to locate lessons, resources, and instructional supports for planning and implementation. By the end of the session, teachers will have a clearer understanding of the structure of the curriculum and feel more confident navigating the platform as they begin preparing to use Stemscopes in their classrooms.

Speakers

Tammy Schank

Math Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Keely Hulme

Math Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B104

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2, 6th-8th
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

1:00pm CDT

Yes, Even If You "Don't Like Poetry": Practical Strategies for Deep Analysis

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

B110

Limited Capacity seats available

Poetry can feel intimidating — abstract, confusing, even inaccessible. But what if it’s actually the most efficient way to teach rigorous comprehension? In this hands-on session, we’ll demystify poetry and model simple, repeatable protocols that help readers unpack meaning, analyze craft, and support claims with evidence. Because poems can be brief, students can go deeper — and those thinking skills transfer seamlessly to novels, primary sources, and beyond. Even if you just need a moment surrounded by beautiful words and well-crafted lines, this session is for you.

Speakers

Staci Hammer

RLA Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD

Staci Hammer coordinates the reading language arts curriculum for Aledo ISD. Her passions include developing teacher expertise and empowering students to identify as readers, writers, listeners, speakers, and thinkers.

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B110

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, Administrators
Subject Reading/Language Arts
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

1:00pm CDT

Making Thinking Visible: Increasing Rigor Through Interactive Science Notebooking

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

B112

Limited Capacity seats available

Teachers will learn fresh ideas about science notebooking, including differentiation strategies, vocabulary supports, and ways to increase rigor and relevance.

Speakers

Haley Loftin

Elizabeth Garcia

GT Specialist, Aledo ISD

Liz has been in education for 15 years and holds a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership with a specialization in GT. She is passionate about STEM, differentiation, and creating meaningful, hands-on experiences for students.

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B112

Science

Audience 3rd-5th, PreK-2nd
Subject Science
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

1:00pm CDT

Stage to Classroom: Strengthening Rigor, Discourse, and Literacy Across Content Areas

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

B204

Limited Capacity seats available

This session introduces practical theatre-based strategies that increase cognitive engagement, academic language development, and depth of understanding across content areas. Through structured approaches such as perspective reading, hot seating, tableaux, and guided discourse, teachers will learn how to strengthen literacy, student voice, and standards-driven rigor while supporting multilingual learners and diverse levels of readiness.

Speakers

Joseph Dassinger

Theatre Director, Aledo High School

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B204

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, PreK-2nd
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX

2:45pm CDT

From Silence to Insight: Unlocking Student Thinking with Chalk Talks

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

B203

Limited Capacity seats available

What happens when students discuss ideas without speaking? Powerful thinking. In this session, teachers will experience a Chalk Talk from the student perspective and learn how this simple strategy can transform classroom discussions. We’ll explore how silent written conversations can build participation, deepen thinking, and naturally lead to stronger questions and richer dialogue. Participants will leave with ready-to-use prompts, facilitation tips, and strategies to help students move from quick answers to thoughtful, higher-level responses.

Speakers

Tiffany Nakamura

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B203

Academic Discussion

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, PreK-2nd
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX

2:45pm CDT

Building the Culture, Designing the Work: Creating Meaningful Collaboration in Secondary Classrooms

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

B107

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Creating meaningful collaboration in the classroom requires more than simply placing students in groups—it requires intentionally building a learning environment where students feel safe sharing ideas, taking risks, and thinking beyond traditional approaches. This professional development session will focus on practical strategies teachers can use to foster a classroom culture that encourages collaboration, creativity, and student ownership of learning. The session will also address adaptations of familiar collaborative structures to incorporate technology, accommodate large class sizes, and enhance rigorous and creative thinking.

Speakers

Rachel Grier

Sarah Zedler

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B107

Collaboration

Audience 9th-12th
Subject Math, Reading/Language Arts
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

2:45pm CDT

Understanding EB Needs and How to Help Close the Gap

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

A109

Limited Capacity seats available

Essential information all teachers of EBs need to know and ways we can unlock their potential, including strategies that can work for any student.

Speakers

Audrey Mann

Teacher

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
A109

Emergent Bilingual Students

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, PreK-2nd
Subject Cross-disciplinary
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX

2:45pm CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K-2): mClass and Boost Learning

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

Library

Limited Capacity filling up

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

Deanne Torres

Math Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
Library

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

2:45pm CDT

McGraw-Hill High School Math: Navigating the Platform and Exploring the Curriculum

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

B202

Limited Capacity seats available

Get an introduction to McGraw Hill, our newly adopted curriculum for grades Geometry, PAP Geometry, Algebra II and Pre-cal. In this session, teachers will explore the digital platform and gain an overview of how the curriculum is organized to support instruction. Participants will be guided through key features of the site, including where to locate lessons, resources, and instructional supports for planning and implementation. By the end of the session, teachers will have a clearer understanding of the structure of the curriculum and feel more confident navigating the platform as they begin preparing to use McGraw Hill in their classrooms.

Speakers

Keely Hulme

Math Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B202

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2, 9th-12th
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

2:45pm CDT

5 Questions for Any Text

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

B110

Limited Capacity filling up

This professional learning session introduces Marilyn Perle’s “5 Questions for Any Text” as a simple, powerful framework for helping students read more deeply and think critically about what they encounter. Participants will explore how the five questions guide students to analyze purpose, audience, message, and perspective across any type of text. Educators will leave with ready-to-use prompts that support stronger comprehension, discussion, and media literacy across content areas.

Speakers

Staci Hammer

RLA Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B110

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th
Subject Reading/Language Arts
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

2:45pm CDT

High Impact, Low Overwhelm: Practical RLA Moves That Strengthen Student Thinking

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

B109

Limited Capacity seats available

Explore seven high-leverage RLA instructional shifts that deepen student thinking and discussion—without adding extra planning, materials, or grading.

Speakers

Katelyn Smith

RLA Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Hi everyone! I’m Katelyn Smith, and I’m the 6-12 RLA Instructional Specialist. While AHS has been my home for several years, I’ve really enjoyed finding a new home at both AMS and MMS and getting to know those campuses this year. Although RLA is my primary focus and where my... Read More →

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B109

Audience 6th-8th, 9th-12th
Subject Reading/Language Arts
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

2:45pm CDT

Visual Supports in the Classroom

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

B201

Limited Capacity seats available

In this session, teachers will learn how to implement visual supports for their students to increase independence, student engagement and success in the general and special education classrooms.

Speakers

Dawn McNair

teacher, Aledo ISD

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B201

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, PreK-2nd
Subject Visual Supports
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX

2:45pm CDT

Leverage AI to Transform Critical Writing in Math

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

B204

Limited Capacity seats available

In this professional learning session, teachers will explore how to use MagicSchool to support and extend students’ critical writing in mathematics. Participants will learn strategies for guiding students through structured math responses, deepening reasoning, and strengthening justification of answers using tools that scaffold thinking without reducing rigor. The session will include practical examples, ready-to-use prompts, and opportunities to design activities that align with grade-level standards while increasing student ownership of mathematical communication. Teachers will leave with actionable strategies to enhance both problem-solving and written explanation in their classrooms.

Speakers

Amanda Coomer

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B204

Technology

Audience 3rd-5th, Administrators
Subject Math, Artificial Intelligence
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

8:30am CDT

Lead the Way, Capture the Heart: Aligning LEAD with the EXCEL Model

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

B108

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

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

Classroom Management

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, PreK-2nd
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX

8:30am CDT

Building Meaning Before Reading

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

B104

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

Cathy Williams

Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD

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

Emergent Bilingual Students

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX

8:30am CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K–5): Differentiation Strategies Built Into the Curriculum

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

A103

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

Lindsey Rutherford

4th Grade Math/Science Teacher

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
A103

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2, K-5th
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

8:30am CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K–5): Navigating the Platform & Exploring Your New Curriculum

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

Library

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Deanne Torres

Math Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
Library

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

8:30am CDT

Let’s Talk STEMscopes! Language & Vocabulary Supports for Math Success

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

B109

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

Emily Lyle

Math Teacher, Aledo ISD

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
B109

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2, 6th-8th
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

8:30am CDT

Simple is as Simple does at the Teacher Table

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

B112

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

Rebekah Getz

Katie Harbour

First Grade Teacher, Aledo ISD

Friday May 29, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
B112

Audience PreK-2nd
Subject Reading/Language Arts
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

10:15am CDT

Amplify Desmos Math 3–5: Inside the Math Block (Model Lesson)

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

B108

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Marissa Torres

Aledo ISD

Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B108

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

10:15am CDT

Amplify Desmos Math K–2: Inside the Math Block (Model Lesson)

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

A103

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Barb Williams

Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
A103

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

10:15am CDT

Figuring out Fluency

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

B206

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

Stacey Roberson

3rd Grade Math, Aledo ISD

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B206

Math

Audience 3rd-5th
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

10:15am CDT

Stemscopes Math (6–Alg I): Making Math Relevant Through Real-World Connections

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

A105

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

Kailea Click

Skye Lindgron

6th & 7th Math Teacher, Aledo Middle School

Grace McCurdy

Madison Klein

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
A105

Math

Audience 6th-Algebra 1
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL

10:15am CDT

Active Literacy: High Engagement Strategies for PreK–2 Readers

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

B201

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

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

Audience PreK-2nd
Subject Early Literacy
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL

10:15am CDT

Ignite, Engage, Inspire: Driving Instruction Through Rigor and Relevance

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

B104

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

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!

Donna Bonaldi

Teacher, Aledo ISD

William Smith

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

Student Engagement

Audience 6th-8th, 9th-12th
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX

10:15am CDT

Many Goals, One Classroom: The Workshop Model in a Resource Setting

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

B202

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.

Speakers

Erin Gray

Kathryn Wilson

Brandi Shackelford

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
B202

Audience 3rd-5th, PreK-2nd
Subject Reading/Language Arts, Math, Special Education
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX

10:15am CDT

Winning at WIN- Connect Map and IXL

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

A101

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

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.

Brittany Crimmings

Friday May 29, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
A101

Using Data Effectively

Audience 3rd-5th
Subject Reading/Language Arts, Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

1:00pm CDT

From Simple to Strategic: Advancing Questioning Practices in Early Learning

Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

B108

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

Cathy Remigio

1st Grade Teacher

Katie Harbour

First Grade Teacher, Aledo ISD

Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B108

High-level Questioning

Audience PreK-2nd
Subject Cross-disciplinary
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

1:00pm CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K–5): Differentiation Strategies Built Into the Curriculum

Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

Library

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Lindsey Rutherford

4th Grade Math/Science Teacher

Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
Library

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2, K-5th
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

1:00pm CDT

Stay Stong, End Smart: Engagement & Closures That Actually Work

Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

B109

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

Karen Lasater

Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
B109

Student Engagement

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, PreK-2nd
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

1:00pm CDT

Beyond the Classroom: Integrating GT and ESL Learning Through VR

Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

A109

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

Emily Mooney

GT Specialist- Stuard & Vandagriff Elementaries, Aledo ISD

Nora Hawkins

Jill Hall

Friday May 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
A109

Technology

Audience 3rd-5th, 6th-8th, 9th-12th, PreK-2nd, Administrators
Subject STEM
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, ESL, FLEX, GT

2:45pm CDT

Amplify Desmos Math (K-2): mClass and Boost Learning

Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

A103

Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers

Deanne Torres

Math Curriculum Coordinator, Aledo ISD

Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
A103

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

2:45pm CDT

Light Up Learning with IXL Spark Studio

Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

B108

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

Tammy Schank

Math Instructional Specialist, Aledo ISD

Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B108

Math

Audience 3rd-5th, K-2, 3rd-6th
Subject Math
Credit 1.5hr., CPE, FLEX, ESL, GT

2:45pm CDT

Empowering Educators: Morphological Strategies and Tools for Supporting Struggling Readers with Vocabulary and Comprehension

Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

B107

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

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.

Kelly Dyson

Friday May 29, 2026 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
B107