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Full URSA 2025 Session Schedule will be published here NO LATER than June 1. Please check back soon!
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Friday, July 11
 

9:45am MDT

Bringing Stories to Life with Robotics and Balloons Over Broadway
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #235
This hands-on session will explore the innovative integration of language arts and robotics through the lens of Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet, a captivating book about Tony Sarg, the puppeteer behind the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloons. Participants will discover how storytelling, creativity, and STEM can merge as students design and program robotic “parade balloons” using simple robotics and coding. Educators will learn to combine narrative writing and comprehension skills with engineering principles, enabling students to animate their own robotic characters, enhancing comprehension, problem-solving, and engagement in both literature and technology.

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 Emily Perkins

Emily Perkins

5th Grade Teacher, Cedar Valley Elementary
Emily Perkins is the 5th grade teacher at Cedar Valley Elementary in Cedar Fort, Utah. She has been the 5th grade teacher for the last 13 years. Emily enjoys creating high-quality, engaging cross-curricular learning experiences for her students. Emily is on the district science, math... Read More →
avatar for Michelle Kantaris

Michelle Kantaris

6th Grade Teacher, Cedar Valley Elementary
Michelle Kantaris is a 6th grade teacher at Cedar Valley Elementary in Cedar Fort, Utah.. She presently teaches 6th grade with prior experience in grades K-8. Michelle has a passion for reaching students through engaging cross-curricular activities. Michelle is on the district science... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #235 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.

9:45am MDT

Navigating the Information Jungle: Strategies for Teaching Information Literacy
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #142
In today’s digital landscape, the internet serves as both a treasure trove of information and a minefield of misinformation. During this session, participants will delve into essential strategies for navigating this complex terrain. Information literacy involves critically evaluating online content to discern reliable sources. Media fluency hones the ability to decode media messages, recognize biases, and interpret visuals. The SIFT method, comprising the steps: Stop, Investigate, Find, and Trace, empowers students to dissect online information effectively. Additionally, fostering critical thinking is crucial for mitigating misinformation. Lastly, educators can creatively integrate information literacy into classrooms, ensuring that students develop essential skills for evaluating and engaging with digital content. Let’s embrace the internet’s power while staying vigilant against misinformation!

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: It would be nice if participants bring a laptop

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Bring a laptop, not an iPad or mobile device.
Speakers
avatar for Kayla Towner

Kayla Towner

Product Manager and Senior Technical Specialist, UEN - Utah Education Network
Kayla Towner, a tech enthusiast, is the Product Manager & Technology Specialist at the Utah Education Network (UEN). She loves spending time with her family - playing soccer ⚽️, listening to audiobooks 📚, hiking 🥾, & adventuring around Utah 🏔️. She’s passionate about... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #142 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.

9:45am MDT

Unlock Creativity in Your Classroom with Adobe Express
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #234
Are you ready to bring learning to life in your upper elementary classroom? Join our engaging, hands-on presentation on Adobe Express and discover how easy it is to create stunning visuals, videos, and interactive projects—no design experience needed!
What You’ll Learn:
How to craft eye-catching lesson materials in minutes
Fun, student-friendly projects like digital book reports & science posters
Time-saving templates that make teaching easier & more exciting
Best practices for seamless classroom integration
Why Attend?
Boost student engagement & creativity
Gain practical, ready-to-use classroom tools
Walk away with your own Adobe Express masterpiece!
Don’t miss out! Join us and turn your classroom into a hub of creativity & innovation!

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Must have Laptop, Mac or Tablet

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Perry

Lisa Perry

Educator/Tech Coach, Terra Academy
I am a passionate 5th-grade educator with 13 years of teaching experience, All of those in rural Utah. I strongly advocate for literacy, math, and technology, using hands-on projects, Thinking Classroom strategies, and digital tools like Adobe Express to engage my students and build... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #234 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.

9:45am MDT

AI and Privacy: What Every Teacher Needs to Know
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Lecture Hall
Want to leverage the power of AI in your classroom but worried about student privacy? This session is for you! We'll cover the basics of AI and privacy, including:
- What is AI and how can it be used in education?
- What are the privacy risks of using AI?
- How can you protect student privacy when using AI?
- We'll also provide you with practical tips and resources to help you use AI safely and responsibly.

NOTE: This session repeats on Thursday, July 10 at 9:45 am in Room 241.

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

John Lyman

Student Data Privacy Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
John is a seasoned instructional designer with a passion for innovative learning experiences. With two decades of experience, a B.S. in Developmental Psychology, and an M.Ed. in Instructional Design, he brings a unique blend of expertise. John excels in creating cutting-edge, immersive... Read More →
NS

Nicole Sanchez

Student Data Privacy Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Nicole Sanchez brings nearly a decade of experience in Arizona and Utah schools to her role as a Student Data Privacy Specialist. With a background teaching English and ESL, and later as an instructional coach, Nicole is passionate about student literacy in the digital age. For the... Read More →
JZ

Jeremy Zabriskie

Data Privacy and Security Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Jeremy comes to the data privacy team from his previous role as IT Manager at a K6 charter school. While there, he served as the Data Manager and Information Security Officer, in addition to teaching computer science classes. Jeremy’s fervor for cybersecurity is proven by his multiple... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Lecture Hall 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required., Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required., Advanced - considerable experience; significant prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

From Comics to Comprehension: Why Graphic Novels Belong in Every Classroom and School Library
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #134
In this dynamic and relevant session, K-12 educators will explore the powerful role of graphic novels in fostering literacy, critical thinking, and student engagement. We will examine how graphic novels support diverse learning needs, enhance comprehension through multimodal storytelling, and align with educational standards. Educators will gain practical strategies for integrating graphic novels into their curriculum and school libraries to support reluctant readers, English language learners, and advanced students alike. Participants will leave with research-based insights, recommended titles, and advocacy tools to champion the value of graphic novels in their schools.

NOTE: This session repeats on Thursday, July 10 at 11:10 am in Room 241.

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 Gretchen Zaitzeff

Gretchen Zaitzeff

District Library Media Specialist, Canyons School District
Gretchen Zaitzeff is the District Library Media Specialist for Canyons School District in Sandy, Utah, and the Past-President of the Utah School Library Association (USLA). She is deeply committed to professional learning, instructional leadership, and literacy, actively supporting... Read More →
avatar for Davina Sauthoff

Davina Sauthoff

K12 Library Media Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Davina Sauthoff, EdD., is the Library Media Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education, where she champions the expertise of school 🏫 librarians and their vital role in enriching the learning experiences of Utah 🌄 students. A recognized leader in the field, Davina frequently... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #134 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Google Demo Slam: 2025
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #137
This is a Demo Slam style presentation and we will host the demos in video form (This makes the presentation go very smoothly). The participants will get to see us present the videos and then vote on the video/tool that they think is the best! If you are unable to physically attend the session, that's still OK. We have had this situation in the past where one of our team members was unable to be there at UCET. We can still present your video on your behalf! The rules will be as follows: Each Google Certified Educator will submit one video Video must demonstrate use of Google tools/add-ons/extensions/etc. Demonstration portion of the video must be ≤ 2 minutes Video must include a brief introduction (may be outside of the 2 minute time limit) Video must conclude with a “SLAM".

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: Google Account
Speakers
avatar for Kelli Cannon

Kelli Cannon

Digital Learning Specialist, Jordan School District
Kelli Cannon has been an educator for twelve years, teaching upper elementary students prior to her current role as a Digital Learning Specialist. Kelli is a Utah Teacher Fellow and holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, as well as endorsements in Teaching English as... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #137 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Learning to Learn: Teaching that Supports the Science of Learning
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #237
While it may seem like a strange question, ask yourself, "Is our school's focus on teaching or learning?" As educators and leaders, we know learning is central to our mission, yet too often, our efforts and focus are focused on teaching. What can we do to be more intentional about how our students, and even staff, learn how to learn better? New research and insights from cognitive science and experts in education can help us to see the power and potential in shifting our focus to more fully utilize the science of learning in our school's teaching approaches so that we can help all learners better learn to learn.

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 Jeremy Smith

Jeremy Smith

Teacher, Lewiston Elementary
Jeremy is a teacher leader and experienced educator with a range of experience who frequently presents at state, regional, and national educational conferences on a variety of topics important to dedicated education professionals. His thoughtful solutions help educators and leaders... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #237 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

The Power of Feedback: Using Data and Reflection to Enhance Instruction
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #144
In this interactive session, we will explore how both formative and summative feedback can be powerful tools for improving teaching and student outcomes. Attendees will learn practical strategies for utilizing timely, actionable feedback to inform instruction, foster student growth, and refine teaching practices. Attendees will gain practical tools for analyzing team-based student data, fostering collaborative discussions that drive instructional decisions, and how to use AI to simplify your feedback and analyze student data. By the end of the session, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of how to use feedback, data, and reflection to create a dynamic, responsive learning environment that promotes continuous improvement for both students and educators.

NOTE: This session repeats on Wednesday, July 9 at 1:30 pm in Room 131.

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 Kelbie Jackson

Kelbie Jackson

Instructional Coach, Bear River High School
Kelbie Jackson is an Instructional Coach at Bear River High School with seven years of experience teaching English Language Arts. She is passionate about increasing literacy in secondary schools and improving student learning through teacher collaboration and Professional Learning... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #144 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Updates from the School Safety Center
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #135
Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of Utah's school safety requirements, with a focus on the latest legislation. The session will highlight the Utah School Safety Center's efforts in helping schools implement new requirements and best practices. Attendees will learn about various initiatives and resources available to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for students. This informative session will provide valuable insights into the current state of school safety and offer practical guidance and support to Local Education Agencies across the state.

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 Ashley Pistello

Ashley Pistello

School Safety Center Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Ashley joined the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) as the School Safety Center Specialist. She previously collaborated with the School Safety Center as a liaison from SafeUT and the Huntsman Mental Health Institute (HMHI). In addition to her experience as a Project Administrator... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #135 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Customized Learning: ELA and Health Education Integration
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #148
Participants will be able to plan integrated lessons between ELA and health education allowing students to use the skills they learn focusing on learner agency, customized supports, and demonstrated competency in this hands-on learning experience.

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: Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, iPad / iPhone
Speakers
avatar for Jodi Parker

Jodi Parker

Health Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Eductation
Jodi is the Health Education Specialist, Title IV, Part A State Coordinator, and a goal leader for Safe and Healthy Schools section of the strategic plan for the Utah State Board of Education. Jodi also serves on the Huntsman Cancer Institute Community Advisory Council and the board... Read More →
avatar for Christine Elegante

Christine Elegante

K-3 Literacy Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Christine Elegante is a dynamic educator who currently serves as a K-3 Literacy Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. She is passionate about education and considers herself a life-long learner. Her own educational journey began at Utah State University where she earned... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #148 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.

9:45am MDT

Elevate Learning and Leadership with the CLEAR Feedback Framework
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #138
Effective feedback is a critical driver of professional growth, instructional improvement, and leadership development. In this interactive two-hour session, educators and educational leaders will explore the CLEAR Feedback Framework developed by the Utah Education Policy Center. Grounded in research and real-world application, the CLEAR approach centers feedback that is Collaborative, Learning-Oriented, Embedded, Actionable, and Reflective.

Participants will analyze feedback scenarios, reflect on past feedback experiences, and practice applying the CLEAR framework to strengthen their ability to give and receive feedback that builds trust, supports instructional shifts, and promotes continuous learning.

By the end of this session, participants will:
• Identify the essential elements of effective feedback using the CLEAR framework
• Differentiate between productive and unproductive feedback practices
• Apply the CLEAR protocol to realistic leadership and instructional scenarios
• Develop actionable steps to integrate CLEAR feedback into their everyday roles as educators and leaders

All participants will leave with a copy of the CLEAR Feedback Protocol, sample sentence starters, and personalized action steps to support ongoing improvement in their coaching, mentoring, and instructional practice.

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 Andrea Rorrer

Andrea Rorrer

Director, UEPC - Utah Education Policy Center
Dr. Andrea K. Rorrer  is the Director of the UEPC and a Professor in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy. Andrea, who has 35 years of experience in education, received her master’s degree at the University of Virginia and her Ph.D. from the University of Texas... Read More →
avatar for Cori Groth

Cori Groth

Associate Director, Utah Education Policy Center
Cori Groth, Ph.D. Associate Director, Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC) Dr. Cori Groth is the Associate Director of the Utah Education Policy Center at the University of Utah, where she collaborates with school, district, and community leaders to strengthen programs, policies, and... Read More →
avatar for Kody Colvin

Kody Colvin

Lead Schoool & District Improvement Specialist, Utah Education Policy Center
Dr. Kody Colvin is the Lead School and District improvement specialist at the Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC). Kody spent 11 years in the Salt Lake City School District (SLCSD) as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and school administrator—assistant principal and principal... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #138 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.

9:45am MDT

Elevating Your Literacy Instruction with the Arts
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #132
How can you get more engagement in your reading lessons? Arts Integration! A visual art specialist and a music specialist will model some fun, engaging ways to enhance any literacy lessons with the arts. They will share tips, tricks, and strategies that any teacher can use to be successful in breathing more excitement into their classroom!

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 Elizabeth Brown

Elizabeth Brown

Art Coach, NUES - Northern Utah Educational Services
Liz Brown was the 2024 UAEA Art Teacher of the year for Utah. She is passionate about arts integration and children getting the opportunity to create. She has worked in education for more than 20 years, as an elementary classroom teacher, with experience in kindergarten through 6th... Read More →
AH

Amy Hickenlooper

BTS Music Specialist, Early Light Academy
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #132 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

The Exploratorium
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #133
Welcome to the Exploratorium! Join us as we show you how to upgrade student learning stations into enriched learning experiences. The Exploratorium model invites students to dive deeper into their educational quests through the vibrant realms of artistic exploration and theatrical play. In this session we will highlight four Exploratorium stations including Creature Creation, Sound Booth, Crime Scene, and Design Lab. As a bonus, we’ll also be highlighting the Presentation Station where students can share their newfound knowledge through an informance.

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
SA

Sharla Arnold

Theatre Arts Integration Specialists, Lone Peak Elementary
Sharla received her Bachelor of Science in Theatre Arts from Southern Utah University in 2001. She has experience working both behind the scenes and on stage at the Utah Shakespeare Festival, where she performed in their educational tour of MacBeth. In 2020, she completed her coursework... Read More →
avatar for Cassie Walker

Cassie Walker

BTS art teacher, Lone Peak Elementary
Cassie Walker is an art educator with over 11 years of teaching experience. She currently works as a BTS Arts teacher in Canyons School District, where she has taught for the past nine years. Cassie has an MA in arts education and a BS in elementary education. Before her current role... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #133 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:00am MDT

ELL as a Foreign Language
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #231
In many schools, the ELL class is treated as a throwaway class, with students put on a “program” and expected to learn English. Your ELL students deserve to be given a class centered on learning the English Language. Come see how a Teaching Second and Foreign Languages trained teacher arranges her classroom to put English Language Instruction front and center. All available resources will be shared with you for immediate implementation in your 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: Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, Android Tablet / Smartphone, iPad / iPhone, Windows Tablet / Smartphone, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Maggie Grindstaff

Maggie Grindstaff

Science 8 and ELL Teacher, Ephraim Middle School
Maggie trained as a TSFL teacher and has taught ESL in Guatemala as well as adult education ESL classes in several states before becoming an ESL and Bilingual teacher in Texas and Spanish classes in Louisiana. Now back in Utah, she focuses on using all available resources to teach... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #231 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.

11:00am MDT

Integrated Singing Games for the Elementary Classroom
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #147
Unlock the power of music to enhance learning across subjects with singing games that captivate, engage, and educate! In this lively, hands-on session, you'll discover how singing games can be seamlessly integrated into the elementary general education classroom to support language arts, math, social studies, and more. We’ll explore games that promote collaboration, reinforce academic concepts, and build classroom community—all while nurturing students' musical growth. Be ready to move, sing, and play as you leave with practical ideas to energize your lessons and inspire your students!

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
KH

Katie Hejazi-Far

Independent Contractor, Independent Contractor
Katie Ross Hejazi-Far graduated from West Virginia University’s School of Music with a Bachelor of Music Education and received her Master of Music Education from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. Katie taught general music in Virginia before moving to Utah where she... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #147 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.

11:00am MDT

PBL Reimagined - Unleashing Student Potential through EdTech & Community Impact
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #232
Engaging students through a project-based learning (PBL) approach allows them to take an active role in their education, fostering curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking. In this workshop, we will explore the research behind PBL and examine its real-world applications in the classroom.

Participants will begin by reviewing key studies that highlight the benefits of PBL, including increased student engagement, deeper content retention, and improved problem-solving skills. We will also examine examples of PBL projects and implementation, analyzing what makes these projects effective and how they can be adapted for different subjects and grade levels.

This session will also provide practical strategies for incorporating PBL into daily instruction, regardless of constraints such as time, curriculum requirements, or student readiness. Educators will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, brainstorm project ideas, and apply a framework for designing meaningful, student-driven learning experiences.

Additionally, we will discuss ways to integrate emerging technologies, including AI tools, to enhance PBL and support students in their inquiry process. By the end of the session, attendees will leave with concrete strategies and resources to create engaging, inquiry-based learning environments that empower students to take ownership of their education.

Whether you are new to PBL or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide valuable insights and tools to make project-based learning a transformative experience in your classroom.

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, UEN - Utah Education Network
Lora Gibbons is a UEN trainer dedicated to helping educators create exciting learning experiences for their students. Lora earned a master's degree in Instructional Design and Educational Technology from the University of Utah and a bachelor's degree in Biology Composite Teaching... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm 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.

11:00am MDT

Pedagogy First: Guiding Principles for Using AI to Empower Students
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Lecture Hall
Learn how to utilize AI in your classroom in ways that go beyond hype and truly foster deep learning. In this session, we’ll briefly review the underlying mechanics of large language models before proposing four guiding principles to help you implement AI strategically in your classroom: task alignment, cognitive awareness, digital literacy, and human-centeredness. Using these principles as a lens, we’ll workshop classroom scenarios and discuss the ways artificial intelligence can support and empower our students when implemented strategically.

NOTE: This session repeats on Thursday, July 10at 9:45 am in Room 244.

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: Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, Android Tablet / Smartphone, iPad / iPhone, Windows Tablet / Smartphone, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Nicole Johnson

Nicole Johnson

Academic Advisor & Content Specialist, UEN - Utah Education Network
Nicole is an educational technology specialist who equips school counselors with the tools they need to implement comprehensive school counseling programs and increase equitable student outcomes through technology. She also provides academic planning and advising for teachers looking... Read More →
avatar for Braxton Thorley

Braxton Thorley

Senior Technology Trainer, UEN - Utah Education Network
Braxton specializes in using technology to personalize learning and utilizing artificial intelligence to promote student success. Before joining UEN’s professional development team, Braxton worked as a high school language arts teacher and digital learning coach in Jordan School... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Lecture Hall 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.

11:00am MDT

Self Care: What is it?
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #145
We will discuss what self care is and what it is not

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

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
Speakers
avatar for Sheryl Vernon

Sheryl Vernon

School Psychologist, CUES - Central Utah Educational Services
Sheryl Vernon is a School Psychologist Ed.S. at CUES, where she covers diagnostic testing and Trust Based Relationship Intervention for the region. She received her degree from Brigham Young University.Before working at CUES, Sheryl ran the Crayon Academy Preschool from her home for... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #145 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.

11:00am MDT

USETS - Your toolkits of One-Pagers Elevating Science
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #134
Feeling overwhelmed by the shift to phenomenon-based science? We've got you covered! Join us to explore a curated library of one-page tools developed by USBE and State Science Education Leaders, specifically designed to support Utah educators. These concise resources offer clear descriptions, practical rubrics, and valuable resources to help you implement three-dimensional science in your classroom. Discover how to reach and teach every student with these powerful, easy-to-use tools.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Device to access internet and google docs

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 Specialist, 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 Michelle Berg

Michelle Berg

Science/STEM Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Michelle Berg is a passionate educator and STEM champion with over 16 years of experience in education. She is dedicated to fostering wonder, sense-making, and problem-solving in learning experiences for all students. Michelle has served in various roles, including elementary educator... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #134 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.

11:00am MDT

Utah Science Assessment Updates
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #234
Change happens, and there have been some changes in science assessment in Utah. Come hear about the updates and have all of your questions answered.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Various ways to access the internet

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any way to access the internet
Speakers
ST

Samantha Tinkey

Secondary Science Assessment Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #234 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.

11:00am MDT

Adventure Awaits: Guiding Students with Disabilities to Postschool Success
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #135
Join us for an exciting session packed with valuable information and resources for educators, youth with disabilities, and families preparing for the transition to adulthood. Transitioning from in-school to post school settings can be a thrilling journey for students with disabilities. We'll dive into the positive predictors of postschool success and explore how these insights can pave the way for a bright future.
We'll break down the postsecondary transition process requirements as detailed in IDEA (2004) in a clear and engaging manner. One of the key steps in the IDEA process is connecting students to outside agencies. We'll highlight how transitioning to adulthood is a team effort, involving not just special educators but a whole community of support, along with a variety of community-based experiences to close gaps and provide robust services to prepare for further education, employment, and independent living.
Our discussion will also cover the specific skills students need to succeed in postschool settings, including education, employment, and independent living. We'll introduce a fantastic tool developed in collaboration with the Utah State Board of Education and local institutions of higher education, which identifies critical skills for success.
Finally, we'll share a treasure trove of resources to help stakeholders navigate the postsecondary transition process in productive and meaningful ways. Get ready to explore several padlets filled with local and national resources and Utah’s new postsecondary transition website designed to support educators and families alike.

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: Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, Android Tablet / Smartphone, iPad / iPhone, Windows Tablet / Smartphone, Chromebook
Speakers
CE

Crystal Emery

SSIP and Secondary Transition Specialist for Students with Disabilities, Utah State Board of Education
Crystal Emery, PhD is a secondary transition professional with over 25 years of experience working with young children and adolescents. She is certified as an early intervention specialist, a Coach for Early Childhood Professionals, an Employment Specialist, and a Customized Employment... Read More →
avatar for Deanna Taylor

Deanna Taylor

Postsecondary Transition Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Deanna Taylor, M.S., M.Ed., is a Postsecondary Transition Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. Her public education career has spanned more than 40 years as a music teacher, special education teacher, special education director and college instructor. Deanna has master’s... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #135 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:00am MDT

Creating a predictable environment for optimal behavior In our schools and classrooms
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #237
Environments are the key to safety and security for our students. When we can provide environments that are consistent with behavioral principals we create an environment with fewer behavioral struggles and students that are happy and well adjusted.

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

Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Howcroft

Elizabeth Howcroft

Board Certified Behavior Analyst, LBA, licensed Special Education Teacher, Northeastern Educational Services
Liz was born and raised in rural Utah where she has worked with students and families of students with high educational and behavior needs for the past 20 years. Liz has worked in education, foster care, early intervention, and the clinic setting both in home and in clinic. Liz has... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #237 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:00am MDT

Creative Writing Made Simple
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #233
Whether for you or for the students in your classroom, creative writing can be a wonderful tool. Come learn five simple components of writing fiction or creative nonfiction so you can get started writing today.

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: No
Speakers
avatar for Becca Wilhite

Becca Wilhite

Admin assistant, NUES
Becca Wilhite writes books, sometimes under her own name and sometimes as Rebecca Anderson. She loves hiking, Broadway shows, rainstorms, food, forests, books, and movies. She lives in the mountains and adores the ocean, and dreams of travel but loves staying home. Happiness is dabbling... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #233 1759 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner

11:00am MDT

Engendering Hope in Teachers and Students: Using the Skills of Improv and Storytelling in Education
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #146
This presentation will cover the skills of storytelling and how research has confirmed the place of narrative in improving student hope levels. The concept of improv will also be presented as a means for students in any class to create stories with expression, and how these activities can also increase teacher self efficacy and PLC collective efficacy.

Experiences and research data from the presenters doctoral work will also be included.

It is anticipated that the presentation will be displayed through PowerPoint, lecture, and voluntary audience participation.

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
JE

Jacob Earnest

Literature and Improv Instructor at American Heritage, Doctoral Candidate in Education at USU, American Heritage School, Utah State University
Jacob Earnest is a full-time teacher of literature and improvisational theatre in American Fork. He also is finishing his doctoral work in Education from Utah State University. His research focus is on the use of oral storytelling and its relationship to student hope and narrative... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm 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.

11:00am MDT

HELP! My Students Can't Write...Advancing Thinking Through Writing K-5
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #137
Are your students struggling to write? We will look at the Science of Writing, LETRS strategies, and use a guide to advancing thinking through writing in all subjects and grades. You will leave with a pacing guide and hands on experience for explicitly teaching sentence skills and paragraph skills K-5. We will focus on carefully sequencing instruction, building from sentences to compositions. Using sentence builders, four square writing method, Dr. Anita Archer explicit instruction strategies, and The Writing Revolution you will leave with a clear understanding of how to intentionally plan writing across all subject areas. The Writing Revolution (TWR) provides a clear method of instruction that you can use no matter what subject or grade level you teach.

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
Speakers
avatar for Amy Mahoney

Amy Mahoney

Prek-12, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Amy is a Learning Coach at Northeastern Utah Educational Services that supports PreK-12th grade. Amy provides on-going professional learning for teachers, paraprofessionals, building coaches, administrators and district directors. She engages in coaching cycles, PLCs, and science... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #137 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required., Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

11:00am MDT

Scrible: Elevate Student Research and Writing in Your K-12 Classroom
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #235
In this 60-minute session, K-12 educators will discover how Scrible empowers students to conduct effective online research and streamline the writing process. Learn how to leverage Scrible's annotation, citation, and organization tools to foster critical thinking and academic integrity. We'll explore practical strategies for integrating Scrible into various subject areas and grade levels, helping students develop essential research and writing skills for success.

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: Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, Android Tablet / Smartphone, iPad / iPhone, Windows Tablet / Smartphone, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Chris Haught

Chris Haught

Media Specialist, Southwest Educational Development Center
Chris Haught is the Technology/Media Mentor at Southwest Educational Service Center (SEDC), a regional Service Center that serves six district and seven charter ELA’s.Chris works closely with the region’s librarians providing support and training on Utah’s Online Library, the... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm 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.

11:00am MDT

Singleton PLCs: We Survived, and Thrived!
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #238
Monticello High School, with its "singleton" teachers, couldn't use traditional PLCs. Instead, they adopted the Critical Friends (CF) model. This allowed teachers across disciplines to collaborate, analyze student work, and share best practices. The CF model created effective PLCs, despite the school's unique structure. Monticello now shares this success, offering a solution for schools with similar singleton challenges.

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 KC Olson

KC Olson

Principal, Monticello High School
KC Olson, principal of Monticello High School, is dedicated to facilitating student and teacher growth and well-being. He has many years of experience in education as a teacher and administrator within the San Juan and Washington County School Districts. He earned his B.S. in physical... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #238 1758 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:00am MDT

The Adventure Awaits: A Teachers Guide to unlocking their Leadership Potential.
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #142
A teacher's guide to unlocking their own leadership and potential. There will be handouts for educators to take home to utilize in the future. The goal of the workshop is to help teachers enhance their own leadership skills, take the innate leadership abilities they have then build off of them .

Speakers
avatar for Kelbie Jackson

Kelbie Jackson

Instructional Coach, Bear River High School
Kelbie Jackson is an Instructional Coach at Bear River High School with seven years of experience teaching English Language Arts. She is passionate about increasing literacy in secondary schools and improving student learning through teacher collaboration and Professional Learning... Read More →
avatar for Courtnee Justice

Courtnee Justice

Teacher/Instructional Coach, Emery High
Courtnee Justice has been teaching for 15 years. She has an MS Educational leadership and MA in language arts. Courtnee taught seven years as a 6th grade elementary teacher, then she moved to secondary language arts, she has taught all ELA grades at her high school. Courtnee spent... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #142 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
  1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.
 
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