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Welcome to URSA 2025 at Park City High School!
Company: Utah Core Curriculum clear filter
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Wednesday, July 9
 

1:30pm MDT

Empowering Student Sensemaking: A Student-Driven Approach to Learning
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #232
This presentation will explore the transformative power of student-driven learning in fostering sensemaking in the classroom. Drawing on practical examples and research-based insights, the presentation will highlight how student-centered strategies, supported by technology like Nearpod, can empower students to take ownership of their learning, develop critical thinking skills, and construct meaningful understanding.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
avatar for Lora Gibbons

Lora Gibbons

Senior Technical Trainer
Utah Education Network
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #232 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Exploring Earth & Sky: Navigating Stellarium, SOS Explorer and Universe Sandbox
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #135
Bring Earth and space science to life with three powerful, free digital tools your students will love! This hands-on session introduces Stellarium, Universe Sandbox, and NOAA’s Science On a Sphere Explorer (SOSx)—interactive platforms that make complex science concepts more engaging and accessible.

Use Stellarium to take your students on a virtual journey through the night sky. They'll model lunar phases, eclipses, and seasons, explore planetary motion, and visualize the Sun-Earth-Moon system.

Then, experiment with Universe Sandbox, a physics-based space simulator where students can create their own solar systems, simulate orbital dynamics, and investigate gravitational interactions—an innovative way to deepen understanding of planetary motion and forces.

Finally, dive into SOS Explorer, a tool for visualizing real-world data on Earth’s systems. Students can explore weather patterns, long-term data, atmospheric circulation, and the natural greenhouse effect with interactive datasets from NOAA.

Each of these tools supports the Utah 6th Grade SEEd Standards, with strong alignment to Strand 6.1 (Structure and Motion within the Solar System) and Strand 6.3 (Earth’s Weather Patterns and Climate). The session emphasizes three-dimensional learning by incorporating scientific modeling, data analysis, and systems thinking.

Participants will leave with practical strategies, classroom-ready resources, and inspiration to integrate these tools into inquiry-based lessons. Whether you're new to digital platforms or looking to expand your toolkit, this session will help you elevate your science instruction.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable, Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, Chromebook
Speakers
TQ

Thomas Quayle

Education Program Specialist, Clark Planetarium
Thomas Quayle is an Education Program Specialist who brings the wonders of the universe to life. Through his work with the Clark Planetarium’s Science on a Sphere, he develops innovative curriculum that enhances both on-site field trips and immersive experiences for students. In... Read More →
avatar for Jason Trump

Jason Trump

Education Programs Supervisor, Clark Planetarium
Jason brings substantial expertise to the field of astronomy education. As the head of the education department at Clark Planetarium in Salt Lake City, he oversees statewide field trip, teacher development, elementary outreach, and summer camp programs. He holds a Bachelor of Science... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #135 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

High Engagement Writing
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #148
Come participate in a highly engaging writing experience that you can take back to modify and share with your students. This session will outline a start to finish process as an example of what is possible with the combination of tools used to create a final student product. This training will showcase WeWillWrite (grades 4-12), Google Slides, and Adobe Express in a mashup that will keep your students immersed in writing, collaborative group work, creating, and problem solving.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Device that connects to the internet

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, Android Tablet / Smartphone, iPad / iPhone, Windows Tablet / Smartphone, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Buffy Camps

Buffy Camps

6th Grade English Teacher, Helen M. Knight Elementary
I am in my 20th year of teaching. Fifteen of those have been in sixth grade, with the most recent nine years teaching English after we departmentalized.
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #148 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Rhythm, Rhyme, and the Hip-Hop Canon
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #144
What literary qualities earn a text a place in the canon? Who gets to decide? Shakespeare wisely wrote, “Even the genius asks his questions.” …Actually, Tupac Shakur penned those words. Does their value change if the author does?
What if we expanded our definition of essential literature? This session explores the literary evolution of Hip-Hop, from its cultural roots in the Bronx, NY, to its impact as a powerful form of expression. Using East High School’s 11th & 12th-grade ELA topics courses as a case study, we’ll examine how Hip-Hop texts align with Utah’s Common Core State Standards. Participants will step into the role of students, experiencing a sample lesson with texts and activities that illuminate Hip-Hop’s influence beyond music—revealing it as a lens for understanding identity, history, and the world. Walk away with practical strategies to bring Hip-Hop into your classroom and redefine what it means to teach literature.

Speakers
avatar for Elyse Arrington

Elyse Arrington

ELA Teacher & Reading Interventionist, Utah Teacher Fellow, East High School, Utah Teacher Fellows
Elyse E-Z-E Arrington has worked as a secondary Reading interventionist, Language Arts teacher, and Restorative Justice practitioner for seven years at East High School. Elyse graduated with her MA from Columbia University’s Teachers College in NYC and was a founding teacher at... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #144 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

You've Got To Move It! (Incorporating Movement in Secondary Classrooms)
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #241
Ever feel like your high school students are half-asleep by third period? Or that no matter how engaging your lesson is, they’re glued to their seats (and their phones)? It’s time to shake things up—literally!

In this high-energy session, you’ll learn 10 easy, no-prep movement strategies that get students out of their seats, engaged in learning, and actually having fun. These aren’t just “brain breaks” (though those are great too!)—these are purposeful, content-driven movement strategies that boost focus, retention, and participation.

Whether you teach ELA, Math, Science, or Social Studies, or almost ANY content, these techniques will fit seamlessly into your lessons—no extra planning required. Walk away with ready-to-use ideas that will transform your classroom from static to dynamic… and keep your students moving toward success!

Come ready to laugh, move, and learn—because, let’s be honest, nobody learns best when they’re stuck in a chair all day! 🚀🎉

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Some kind of computer to take notes with may be helpful.
Speakers
avatar for Mary Saylor

Mary Saylor

Instructional Coach, Cedar Middle School
Mary Saylor is a secondary ELA teacher turned Instructional Coach who is passionate about helping teachers create engaging classrooms without adding hours of extra work. With 16 years of classroom experience, she shares practical strategies, mindset shifts, and classroom systems that... Read More →
Incorporating Movement Lesson Plan pdf
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #241 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Accuracy & Automaticity: Science of Reading for Upper Elementary Students
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #137
In recent years, schools and districts throughout Utah have updated their reading practices to better promote student literacy. Rightfully, much of this attention has been devoted to early elementary readers. Still, some may wonder how to apply Science of Reading principles to upper elementary readers. This session outlines how to support multisyllabic word reading accuracy in Tier I as well as promote student automaticity in grade level text.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Speakers
avatar for Jake Downs

Jake Downs

Assistant Professor, Science of Reading Education, Utah State University
Dr. Jake Downs is assistant professor of Science of Reading Education at Utah State University and host of the Teaching Literacy Podcast. He is a former 4th grade teacher, instructional coach, and Elementary Literacy Coordinator for Cache County School District. Learn more about Jake... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #137 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Mild to Spicy- Turning Up the Heat on Math Rigor
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #146
We can't wait to share with you the story of how two middle school math teacher, one new and one experienced have used the RISE performance level descriptors and RISE DOK blue prints to plan backwards to increase the rigor in their classrooms. They have approached it differently, one analyzing existing assessments and the other creating new ones. Come take a look at their amazing work and receive frameworks and support to be able to apply it to your subject and/or grade level.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
JK

Jenna Keyes

7th Grade Math Teacher, South Summit Middle School
avatar for Paula Carlson

Paula Carlson

Instructional Coach, South Summit School District
Paula is in her 28th year in education. She has taught math in South Summit School District for 25 of those 28 years until THIS year when she took on the role of instruction coach. Instructional Coaching is new in South Summit School District and when you ask Paula why she is passionate... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Folkman

Stephanie Folkman

8th Grade Math Teacher, South Summit Middle School
URSA Mild to Spicy Padlet QR code docx
New URSA Mild to Spicy pdf
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #146 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Science of Reading Foundations: Building Student’s Executive Functioning Skills
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #142
Research on the foundations of literacy development emphasizes the importance of executive functioning skills such as planning, focusing, cognitive flexibility, problem solving, and information processing. Teachers can support children’s executive functioning skill development through classroom activities and play-based learning.

This session provides ideas and activities teachers can use across the elementary education years to promote executive functioning skills which are essential for supporting effective learning in literacy and across all learning domains.


Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Android Tablet / Smartphone, iPad / iPhone, Windows Tablet / Smartphone
Speakers
avatar for Jared Lisonbee

Jared Lisonbee

Preschool Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Jared Lisonbee earned a Ph. D. in Human Development with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education from Auburn University. He taught in higher education for over 10 years where his research focus was children’s physiological stress in preschool classrooms. Jared worked in Head Start... Read More →
avatar for Cristina Barrera

Cristina Barrera

Preschool Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Cristina Barrera is a dedicated Preschool Education Specialist with extensive experience in early childhood education. With a career spanning over two decades, Cristina facilitates the healthy development of young children and supports educators and families in this vital field. She... Read More →
avatar for Katrina Herd

Katrina Herd

Preschool Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Katrina has a dual BA in Early Childhood and Elementary education, a master’s in education with an emphasis in early numeracy, and she holds a current dual Utah teaching license in PK-3 and 1-8 grades with a TESOL endorsement. Katrina completed her doctorate degree in Educational... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #142 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  2 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required., Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Best Practices for Using Scrible in the Classroom
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #138
Discover how Scrible, an advanced research and writing platform, can transform the way students approach their assignments. Available to all K-12 students in Utah, Scrible allows users to seamlessly curate research, annotate sources, and generate citations—all within a single platform. In this session, you'll learn best practices for integrating Scrible into your classroom, empowering your students to enhance their research and writing skills. Join us to explore practical tips and strategies for making the most of this innovative tool.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Any type of laptop

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Again using mainly a laptop
Speakers
avatar for Kayla Towner

Kayla Towner

Senior Product Trainer, UEN - Utah Education Network
Kayla Towner is a Senior Product Trainer at the Utah Education Network (UEN) and, first and foremost, a passionate educator. She loves spending time with her family—playing soccer ⚽️, reading books 📚, hiking 🥾, and adventuring across Utah 🏔️. Kayla is dedicated to... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #138 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Polleneighbors
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #243
Garden grown and student tested, the Polleneighbors Bin is filled with 3D printed pollen, digital microscopes, and preserved flowers and pollinators from Red Butte Garden. You and your 2nd graders will dive into plant structures, functions, and patterns alongside discussions and research on pollinators and habitats. With three lessons covering SEEd Standards 2.2.1-2.2.3, this bin equips you with innovative resources to nurture your young scientists.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
HP

Heather Paulsen

Teacher Resource Coordinator, Red Butte Garden & Arboretum
Heather has over 20 years of experience in both formal and informal education K-12. Most of that has been spent in informal science education working with statewide programs that include outreach, teacher resources, professional development and writing curriculum to support state... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #243 1755 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Using TBRI and Connection to Teach Content and Standards
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #136
This presentation will take the idea of TBRI and show how to implement it in the classroom and wrap it around curriculum. TBRI was created for caregivers but has a clear application to the classroom. This session will give schools some of the tools necessary to teach the curriculum while also meeting student needs.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Mac Laptop

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
avatar for Amie Huggins

Amie Huggins

TBRI Coach for Schools, Raise the Future
Amie Huggins is a 30 year classroom teacher.  She is also a TBRI Practitioner and the co-author of the book, Creating a Connected Classroom.  She works for a non-profit called Raise the Future and through them has developed the curriculum, Tools for Transformation.  This curriculum... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #136 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Elevating Classroom Management
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #237
In my session, I will share practical, evidence-based techniques and strategies that equip teachers in rural schools with the tools and support needed to manage low-level chronic disruptions, reduce disciplinary referrals, and enhance teaching time.

By empowering teachers to effectively manage classroom behavior, my training reduces stress, reclaims valuable instructional time, and fosters an optimal learning culture that elevates instruction and teaching in order to reach every student and fulfill every teacher.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
avatar for Kenneth Applegate

Kenneth Applegate

Educator, Local Education Advocate
Kenneth Applegate believes genuine connections with students are essential for academic success. His own educational background and love of lifelong learning continues to fuel his passion to help educators embrace their callings.   He advocates for research-based, practical strategies... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #237 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required., Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required., Advanced - considerable experience; significant prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Water Wise: Engaging Science, Inspiring Stewardship
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #146
Join us for an engaging and dynamic professional development experience where science teachers across the state will gain exclusive insights into Utah’s newest curriculum designed to equip teachers with the latest tools and knowledge to bring water science, conservation, and stewardship to life in their classrooms!
The team made up of former educators, policy makers, and science specialists will dive deep into Utah’s most precious resource—water—providing overview of lessons on water cycle, watersheds, the importance of the Great Salt Lake, and the impact of water conservation on our communities and future generations.
This interactive session will provide hands-on activities and ready-to-use lesson plans to help teachers meet curriculum standards while making science exciting and relevant for students. You will gain insight into the ecology, sustainability, and management of Utah’s water systems, explore the impacts of drought and population growth, and discover ways to inspire students to become water-wise problem solvers.
Whether you're looking for innovative activities, new storytelling techniques, or strategies for incorporating real-world environmental challenges into your lessons, you will find activities to make water science fun, relevant, and impactful for students. Don’t miss this chance to expand your expertise in water science and conservation, collaborate with fellow educators, and help shape the next generation of water-wise citizens.


Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
avatar for Milo Maughan

Milo Maughan

Secondary Science Education Specailist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Milo Maughan is the Secondary Science Education Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. With a strong background in physics and a passion for innovative teaching methods, Milo has been instrumental in developing and implementing science standards that engage and inspire students... Read More →
avatar for Jill Flygare

Jill Flygare

Chief Operating Officer, Utah Water Ways/ Slow the Flow
Jill Flygare serves as the Chief Operating Officer for Utah Water Ways (UWW), where she oversees organizational operations, contract review, and the development of data systems and reporting frameworks. She also leads the establishment of organizational policies and procedures.
Prior to joining UWW, Flygare was the Senior Vice President of Economic Development and Social Impact at LSI Business Development, where she collaborated with state agencies and national organizations to secure federal grants, strengthen institutional capacity, and advance regional... Read More →
CM

Chris Miller

Implementation Specialist
Fippen Group
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #146 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Won't you be our neighbor? Free educator resources from PBS Utah
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #241
PBS content packaged in free, easy accessible resources, media galleries, interactive lessons and full lesson plans? Yes, please! This web based resource centered on PBS content from Daniel Tiger, to Nova, to Nature, to Frontline is for all teachers Prek-12 in any subject all aligned with statewide and nationwide curriculum standards. It is easy to filter for subject and grade, easy to use in the classroom, and utilizes content from the most trusted public media brand in the country. Did I mention that it's free?

NOTE: This session repeats on Thursday, July 10 at 3:10 pm in Room 134.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Windows Laptop

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
avatar for Annie Frazier

Annie Frazier

Education Manager, PBS Utah
Annie Frazier is the Education Manager for PBS Utah. She has always been passionate about children’s media and the power of education through storytelling. Annie studied Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Utah, where she received both her bachelor’s degree... Read More →
avatar for Melanie Pehrson

Melanie Pehrson

Education Coordinator, PBS Utah
An avid reader, mother of 3 small children, and a regular user of libraries, I believe in the power of public spaces and believe they are truly palaces for the people. I have worked for PBS Utah as an Education Coordinator for 3 years, in which I facilitate the distribution of educational... Read More →
PBS LearningMediaJune25 pdf
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #241 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

You've Got To Move It! (Incorporating Movement in Secondary Classrooms)
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #133
Ever feel like your high school students are half-asleep by third period? Or that no matter how engaging your lesson is, they’re glued to their seats (and their phones)? It’s time to shake things up—literally!

In this high-energy session, you’ll learn 10 easy, no-prep movement strategies that get students out of their seats, engaged in learning, and actually having fun. These aren’t just “brain breaks” (though those are great too!)—these are purposeful, content-driven movement strategies that boost focus, retention, and participation.

Whether you teach ELA, Math, Science, or Social Studies, or almost ANY content, these techniques will fit seamlessly into your lessons—no extra planning required. Walk away with ready-to-use ideas that will transform your classroom from static to dynamic… and keep your students moving toward success!

Come ready to laugh, move, and learn—because, let’s be honest, nobody learns best when they’re stuck in a chair all day! 🚀🎉

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Some kind of computer to take notes with may be helpful.
Speakers
avatar for Mary Saylor

Mary Saylor

Instructional Coach, Cedar Middle School
Mary Saylor is a secondary ELA teacher turned Instructional Coach who is passionate about helping teachers create engaging classrooms without adding hours of extra work. With 16 years of classroom experience, she shares practical strategies, mindset shifts, and classroom systems that... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #133 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

The White Whale of Reading: Effective Comprehension Instruction
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Lecture Hall
The ultimate goal of reading is comprehension. Recently, great strides have been made throughout Utah to update reading practices to better align with the Science of Reading. Still, for many, effective comprehension instruction remains elusive. How do we teach kids to understand text? What do we do when kids don't understand text? What about skills and strategies? Is knowledge-building the answer? This session outlines principles of effective comprehension instruction and provides a practical framework for tier I text instruction.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Speakers
avatar for Jake Downs

Jake Downs

Assistant Professor, Science of Reading Education, Utah State University
Dr. Jake Downs is assistant professor of Science of Reading Education at Utah State University and host of the Teaching Literacy Podcast. He is a former 4th grade teacher, instructional coach, and Elementary Literacy Coordinator for Cache County School District. Learn more about Jake... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Lecture Hall 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Utilizing the New Focused Graduation Pathway to Keep Students Engaged
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #232
Too often students who are severely credit deficient become hopeless and drop out of school. The new Focused Graduation Pathway (FGP) provides these students with the opportunity to stay in school and acquire the necessary high school level knowledge and skills needed to pass the GED® test. The FGP will provide a student with a High School Credential and allow them to graduate in the same year as their peers. This session will provide a brief overview of the GED® test and the FGP, including how to bring the pathway into your school or district.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Patton

Stephanie Patton

Adult Education Coordinator, Utah State Board of Education
Stephanie's career has focused on working with underrepresented populations in various positions, including teaching and counseling at an alternative school; working as an advisor for Educational Talent Search; directing an adult education program; and working with adult education... Read More →
URSA Focused Graduation Pathway pptx
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #232 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Writing with Purpose: Build a Collaborative and Supportive Community of Writers
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #235
Writing with Purpose: In this presentation, we will explore the importance of creating a classroom atmosphere where students feel connected to one another and to their teacher. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, students become more comfortable engaging in writing activities. We will discuss how to establish opportunities for students to collaborate, offer and receive feedback, and create a community of motivated writers. Additionally, we will highlight the critical role that writing plays across all subjects and how incorporating writing throughout the school day can strengthen students' overall learning experience. This session is designed for educators looking to cultivate a dynamic, interactive, and purposeful writing culture in their classrooms.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Not Applicable

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Not Applicable
Speakers
avatar for Jenny Blauer

Jenny Blauer

Early Learning Literacy Instructional Coach, CUES - Central Utah Educational Services
LETRS / Keys to Writing Facilitator: Jenny Blauer brings 30 years of experience as a Regular and Special Education teacher, literacy specialist, behavior specialist, and instructional coach. She is an Early Learning Instructional Coach and LETRS / Keys to Writing Facilitator for CUES... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #235 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 
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a Link to Activities in the Area
AU - Auditorium
AU - Auditorium Foyer
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103
BC 208 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 208
Black Box Theater
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level
CC Rondthaller Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Rondthaller Room (200 Level
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level)
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level
Eccles Center Theater
Ecker Middle School
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
ED 104 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 104
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
ED Level 2 Foyer, East - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Level 2 Foyer
Exhibitor Hall
GC 106 - General Classroom Building, Room 106
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201
GC 306 - General Classroom Building, Room 306
Gym: LUNCH Hall
Lecture Hall
Online Form
PCHS
Room #131
Room #132
Room #133
Room #134
Room #135
Room #136
Room #137
Room #138
Room #141
Room #142
Room #143
Room #144
Room #145
Room #146
Room #147
Room #148
Room #231
Room #232
Room #233
Room #234
Room #235
Room #237
Room #238
Room #241
Room #242
Room #243
Room #244
Room #245
SC 016 - Science Center, Room 016
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
SC 129 - Science Center, Room 129
TBD
  • 1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities
  • 1-Hour Exhibitor Session
  • 1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation
  • 2 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities
  • 2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop
  • 2 hour Playground - hands-on and discussion
  • 2 Hour Poster Session - informal discussions
  • 20 minute focus on specific solutions or tools (Over The Shoulder)
  • Activities
  • Assessment & Data Management
  • Break
  • bring printed handouts to share with attendees if needed
  • Conference Info
  • Conference Information
  • Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy
  • Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Exhibitors & Partners Hall
  • Instructional Coaching
  • Keynote
  • Keynote Breakout Session
  • Keynote Breakouts
  • Leadership
  • Lunch
  • Other
  • Presenter Workspace
  • Presenter's Lounge
  • Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs)
  • Registration
  • School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
  • Tech Support
  • Technology & AI
  • Utah Core Curriculum
  • Learning Strand or Track
  • 1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities
  • 1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation
  • 2 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities
  • 2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop
  • 2 hour Playground - hands on activities and discussions with various small groups during a 2-hour window
  • 2 Hour Poster Session - informal discussions with various small groups during a 2-hour window
  • 20 minute focus on specific solutions or tools (Over The Shoulder)
  • Activities
  • Assessment & Data Management
  • Break
  • Conference Info
  • Conference Information
  • Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy
  • Educational Technology
  • etc.
  • Exhibitors & Partners Hall
  • Instructional Coaching
  • Keynote
  • Keynote Speaker Session
  • Leadership
  • Lunch
  • Other
  • PLN's
  • Presenter Workspace
  • Presenter's Lounge
  • Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs)
  • Professional Learning Communities - PLC's
  • Registration
  • School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
  • Tech Support
  • Utah Core Curriculum
  • Subject Area
  • 3-4
  • 46085
  • 46148
  • 5-6
  • Adult Education
  • All
  • All Grade Levels
  • Career and Technical Education
  • Computer Science
  • CTE
  • Elementary - grades K - 6
  • ESL
  • Health and Physical Education
  • High School - grades 9 - 12
  • Instructional Coaching
  • Language Arts
  • Leadership
  • Mathematics
  • Media Literacy
  • Mental/Behavioral Health
  • Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8
  • Music
  • Not Applicable
  • Other
  • Performing Arts / Visual Arts
  • PK - 2
  • Professional Development
  • Science
  • Social Studies
  • Special Education
  • STEM / STEAM
  • World Languages
  • Audience
  • All of the Above
  • Conference Speakers
  • Counselors or School-based Ment
  • Counselors or School-based Mental / Behavioral Health Professionals
  • Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals
  • Curriculum Specialists
  • District / School Administrators
  • EdTech Coach / Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists
  • EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists
  • Everyone
  • Instructional Coaches
  • Library Media Specialists
  • Teachers
  • Technology Coordinators /
  • Technology Coordinators / Facilitato
  • Technology Coordinators / Facilitators
  • Grade Level
  • 3 - 4
  • 45720
  • 5 - 6
  • Adult Education
  • All Grade Levels
  • Career and Technical Education
  • Computer Science
  • Elementary - grades K - 6
  • ESL
  • Health and Physical Education
  • High School - grades 9 - 12
  • Instructional Coaching
  • Language Arts
  • Leadership
  • Mathematics
  • Media Literacy
  • Mental/Behavioral Health
  • Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8
  • Music
  • Not Applicable
  • Other
  • Performing Arts / Visual Arts
  • PK - 2
  • Science
  • Social Science
  • Social Studies
  • Special Education
  • STEM / STEAM
  • World Languages
  • Popular