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Welcome to URSA 2025 at Park City High School!
Audience: All Grade Levels clear filter
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Thursday, July 16
 

8:30am MDT

Becoming Better Grownups: Rediscovering What Matters and Remembering to Fly
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am MDT
AU - Auditorium
TBD
Speakers
BM
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am MDT
AU - Auditorium 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Keynote, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

20 in 20: Rapid-Fire Strategies for Classroom Engagement
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:03am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
đź•’ Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

Buckle up for a high-speed tour of 20 actionable strategies designed to wake up your classroom. In just 20 minutes, we’ll do a full circle tour of of purposeful movement, structured talk, and seamless tech integration. You’ll leave this session with ready-to-use tactics that turn passive listeners into active participants.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Emma Moss

Emma Moss

Digital Teaching & Learning Specialist, Canyons School District
Emma Moss is a Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist and AI Project Co-Lead in Canyons School District, as well as the Artificial Intelligence for K-12 Program Director in Utah. She founded the Utah AI Collaborative and leads monthly meet-ups on AI and innovation in education... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:03am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Making Sheets Work For You
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203
Go beyond the basics and learn some ways to have Google Sheets do some of the busy work for you so that you can narrow in on the important things.  We will talk about several formulas for organizing data and even throw in some AI helps to get things just how you want them!

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Chromebook
Speakers
SK
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

AI, Bloom, and the Cognitive Gap in Educational Technology
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
Most technology integration frameworks—SAMR, TPACK, TIM—focus on tool function, not on how students think and learn. As a result, even well-intentioned ed tech use can bypass the most important question: What kind of thinking does this tool actually support?This session explores how AI and other digital tools intersect with cognition and learning. Participants will revisit Anderson and Krathwohl’s revised Bloom’s taxonomy as a cognitive framework to evaluate technology use, recognizing common pitfalls such as surface-level engagement, cognitive overload, and misplaced focus on tool novelty over mental processes. Together, we’ll analyze practical classroom examples and discuss how ed tech and AI tools can either enhance or inhibit student thinking, depending on how they’re designed into instruction.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
VO
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Brad Montague Breakout Session
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
AU - Auditorium
TBD

Speakers
BM
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
AU - Auditorium 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Keynote Breakout Session, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Commemorate America250 Utah with History, Civics, and Heart
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level)
It's been 250 years since the pivotal events of 1776. The student activities, lesson plans, and resources from America250 Utah will help you connect to the our nation's founding and our state's rich history no matter what content you teach! This session will introduce key resources for elementary, middle, and high school, with a focus on events that connect to Utah in 1776, and the individuals, groups, ideas, and actions that shaped the Revolutionary Era.America250 Utah offers hands-on opportunities to explore history, create shared experiences, and engage with this milestone celebration. You can create powerful opportunities for your students and school community to reflect on our nation’s past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look together toward the future. Presenters: Wendy Rex Atzet, PhD, and Rebecca Kirkman, Curriculum Specialist, Utah Historical Society

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Wendy Rex Atzet

Wendy Rex Atzet

Manager of K-12 Initiatives, Utah Historical Society
Wendy Rex Atzet earned her doctorate in U.S. History at the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she also served for four years as a coordinator for the state National History Day program. She was thrilled to return to National History Day in 2013 when she took the helm of this... Read More →
RK
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Printable Potential: Using 3D Printing in the Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201
💻 Format Alert: This is an extended, 2-hour hands-on session—please bring your own laptop or tablet to fully participate!

This 2-hour session will focus on basic 3D modeling and how to incorporate 3D printing in the classroom. Attendees will walk away with curated lists of 3D prints that align to standards, plug-and-play Canvas modules developed by University of Utah students, and a brand new 3D printer! 

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

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
BR
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Policy Implications for Principalship: "An Unfunded Mandate"
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer
🖼️ Format Alert: This is a relaxed, 2-hour "drop-in" poster session where you can browse at your leisure and chat informally with presenters.

It seems that education is one of the most over-politicized fields. Each year the legislature tries to "solve" all of "problems" they see in society by pushing more policies into the schools. Administrators play a big role in implementation for many of the top-down policies that are newly signed into law each year.  Sometimes the laws make a little bit of sense. Sometimes they are just a nuisance. This poster session will discuss finding from my dissertation regarding policy implementation struggles and successes for school leaders. It will also give participants an opportunity to share their biggest policy struggles with me to guide my next research project because until practitioners and legislatures see each other, not much is going to change.  Let's make policy work for Utah's rural school children!

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
BM
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Basic Self Care: What do you need to know
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204
💻 Format Alert: This is an extended, 2-hour hands-on session—please bring your own laptop or tablet to fully participate!

In this session, we will explore what self-care truly means—and what it does not. Together, we will reflect on the role of self-talk and how our internal dialogue shapes our perception of ourselves and our overall well-being. Participants will have the opportunity to assess their current self-care routines, identify areas for growth, and consider practical ways to strengthen their daily habits.

We will also introduce foundational concepts across key domains of wellness, including physical, emotional, mental, financial, spiritual, and social health. This session is designed to be both reflective and practical, offering simple, meaningful strategies that can be applied immediately.

Join us for an engaging and supportive experience focused on building awareness, fostering balance, and enhancing overall well-being.

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 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 16 years. Before that, she was a Special Education Teacher in the Nebo district for five years. She earned an associate's degree from Utah Valley University and a dual Bachelor of Science in special... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

9:45am MDT

Teaching Communication to Replace Challenging Behavior
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer
🛝 Format Alert: This is a fluid, 2-hour "drop-in" playground where you can stop by anytime to explore small-group activities at your own pace.

This hands-on session gives educators practical ways to support students with challenging behavior by teaching communication (including AAC) as a replacement skill. You’ll learn to think about the “why” behind behavior and use that information to choose and teach simple, functional communication responses that fit your setting.We will use a Behavior Skills Training format (teach, model, practice, feedback) so you can try out strategies during the session and get feedback. You’ll leave with ready-to-use tools, including behavior observation sheets, function-based communication planning guides, AAC-friendly examples, and simple data sheets designed with rural schools in mind.This session is designed for general and special education teachers, paraprofessionals, counselors, and administrators. No behavior analysis background is needed—everything will be explained in plain, classroom-focused language with real examples.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; iPad / iPhone; Android Tablet / Smartphone; Windows Tablet / Smartphone; Chromebook

Speakers
DA
RR
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium Foyer 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Supporting Students with Complex Needs
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 11:28am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
đź•’ Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

I will be sharing my student's story. How I advocated for my student with admin and families, and how that communication helped everyone be on the same page. How my team and I set up safety and regulation spaces and supports. What we learned using them thoughtfully. Strategies I used to support my staff (building buy-in, navigating tough days, dealing with all the "real-life" variables like staffing and schedules). Data collection that is simple and realistic so you are able to see patterns and ask for the right kinds of support. 

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
RJ
RR
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 11:28am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

AI as a Design Variable
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium
Educators are in the moment, deciding what teaching and learning with AI will accomplish. Research shows AI used in a cavalier manner hurts congitive ability and research shows AI can improve brain function. Both are true. This presentation introduces frameworks, strategies, and things to try tomorrow to ensure you have the best interactions with AI for you and your students.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any web enabled device
Speakers
avatar for David Long

David Long

Superintendent, Beaver County School District
David Long has served as the Beaver County School District superintendent for the last six years. During that time his team has developed P-LTE communication network for the school district that allows LTE enabled Chromebooks to connect throughout the school district, on and off campus... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
AU - Auditorium 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

AI on the Ground: Research Meets Rural Realities
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how educators plan, teach, and learn - but what does that look like in practice, especially in rural contexts? In this interactive workshop, the Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC) will facilitate a collaborative learning experience where research insights and educator expertise come together to help make sense of AI's rapidly evolving role in education and in their schools and classrooms. Drawing on recent UEPC research, participants will explore the opportunities, functions, and guardrails for responsible human-AI collaboration, including how AI can serve as a feedback partner, instructional support tool, and collaborative coach, alongside key considerations for ethics, transparency, and teacher agency. The UEPC will share findings from ongoing survey research with Utah educators about their AI use, including which tools they're using, how it's changing their practice, and what concerns and questions remain. These insights set the stage for the session's central activity: a structured, collaborative exchange in which participants share their AI experiences, strategies, cautions, and questions with peers across diverse rural school contexts. Participants will leave with:Key research insights on AI's roles in professional learning and instructionA snapshot of where Utah educators currently stand with AI integrationPractical strategies and ideas from fellow educators to support responsible human-AI collaboration Whether you're an AI enthusiast, skeptical adopter, or hopeful bystander, this session is designed to meet you where you are. Bring your experiences, your questions, and your willingness to learn alongside your peers about how AI is shaping our educational landscapes.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Kody Colvin

Kody Colvin

Assistant Director, Professional Learning & Technical Assistance, Utah Education Policy Center
Kody Colvin is the Assistant Director of Professional Learning and Technical Assistance at the Utah Education Policy Center, where he partners with schools and systems to strengthen instructional leadership, professional learning, and continuous improvement efforts. With over 15 years... Read More →
AR
JZ
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Scam Academy - Teaching Students to Outsmart the Algorithms
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level)
This session moves beyond basic digital safety checklists to teach students the crucial skill of healthy skepticism. We will introduce \"Scam Academy\" resources, which implement Civic Online Reasoning’s Three Questions. These questions help move students from being vulnerable to online manipulation to being digital detectives. Resources available for all grade levels (K-12). Let’s teach students to be smarter than the bots, influencers, and algorithms that exist to trick them!

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Dani Sloan

Dani Sloan

IT Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Dr. Dani Sloan helps educators lead, research, and teach digital citizenship. She's a UEN Product Manager and Instructor at the University of Utah. She is a former Elementary Teacher and current mom to a seventh grader. Dani is passionate about preparing students for a digital world... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Everything that Matters Begins with Trust: How to Create It, Sustain It, and Restore It
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128
This workshop helps educators examine trust as the foundation for effective learning, leadership, and school culture. Participants will review the sources of trust in a school, practice trust-building responses to common school scenarios, and leave with a concrete commitment for specific actions.  The focus will be on practical application of concepts in case studies and hands-on activities that answer the question: “What does trust look like in schools?  How do leaders and teachers create and sustain it?”

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Dale COX

Dale COX

Associate Professor, Program Director K-12 Educational Leadership, UVU - Utah Valley University
Dale Cox is an Associate Professor and the Program Director of K-12 Educational Leadership at Utah Valley University.  He received his doctorate in educational leadership from Lehigh University, his M.Ed. in educational administration from Arizona State University, and his B.A. in... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 128 - Science Center, Room 128 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Engagement 101
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level)
As Anita Archer says, "Learning is NOT a spectator sport!" If you are new to engagement or would like a refresher, this is the session for you.  We will spend the hour engaged in high-impact low prep strategies that you can use with your students starting your first week back in school.  Come prepared to think, engage, and learn in a collaborative environment. 

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Metcalf

Melissa Metcalf

Instructional Coach, South Summit School District
Melissa Metcalf is another Instructional Coach in South Summit School District. She has 13 years of experience in Alpine and South Summit School District. She has taught kindergarten, 1st grade, 3rd grade, and been a reading specialist before taking on the role of Instructional Coach... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Intro to PCBL: Guiding Principles & Strategies for Improving Learning
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102
Join us for an insightful presentation on Personalized Competency-Based Learning (PCBL) to explore effective strategies for enhancing student learning. You'll learn to set clear learning goals, establish measurable objectives, and leverage intrinsic motivators to foster a personalized learning environment. The session will also cover goal-setting, progress monitoring, and curating resources, providing practical strategies you can immediately implement in your classroom.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Android Tablet / Smartphone; iPad / iPhone; Windows Tablet / Smartphone; Chromebook

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 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 đź“š, hiking 🥾, and adventuring across Utah 🏔️. Kayla is dedicated to... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Chaos Coordinators: Frontload the Calm, Teach the Tough
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
In today’s classrooms, challenging behavior can quickly disrupt learning, but it doesn’t have to. This session focuses on how to frontload the calm through proactive, practical strategies that prevent escalation before it starts, while also equipping educators to confidently teach through tough moments when they arise.Participants will learn how to design supportive environments, use antecedent strategies, and embed clear expectations and reinforcement systems that reduce problem behavior. We’ll also explore in-the-moment response strategies that maintain safety, preserve relationships, and turn challenging situations into meaningful teaching opportunities.

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

Speakers
KC

Katie Clark

BCBA, School Psychologist Intern

avatar for Dana Blazzard

Dana Blazzard

Behavior Specialist, BCaBA, LABA, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Dana Blazzard is a licensed educator and behavior specialist who supports students across northern Utah through FBAs, BIPs, and collaboration with school teams. She is committed to creating positive environments where students can thrive.Outside of her professional work, Dana enjoys... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

11:10am MDT

Positive Childhood Experiences in the K-12 Setting
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203
As part of my work with the district, I sit on a multi-disciplinary team that focusses on preventive measures to help students and adults make healthy life-style choices. In that work, we have talked a lot about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE's), and the lasting impact that trauma can have on one’s life. We have also spent considerable time looking at Positive Childhood Experiences (PCE's), and have learned that they may have a more lasting impact on health and behavior than do ACE’s. One study concluded that “Regardless of the number of ACE’s, PCE’s were associated with lower odds of having mental, emotional, developmental, and behavioral conditions…” (2025 Study of 2022 National Children’s Health Data; 23,133 children). This leads us to believe that The Positive has a lasting impact on each of us! The work of Positive Childhood Experiences is centered in seven areas of which four are directly tied to schools: “enjoying participation in community events; having at-least two non-parent adults who took genuine interest in you; feeling supported by friends; and feeling a sense of belonging in high school.” From this work, it is evident that the experiences a child has in school can and will have a lasting positive impact in their life, to the point that it can outweigh their adverse experiences. But it doesn’t stop there, research is being conducted that shows that the effect of The Positive continues into adulthood and that positive adult experiences, the ones you and I experience in the seasons of our careers as we interact with students in our spheres of influence, may help us to overcome and persevere through life's challenges.In this session, we will look at experiences and interactions from throughout my career, and those of my colleagues, that demonstrate how public schools truly are a setting where students are able to interact with trusting adults in a way that builds resilience and capacity. We will see that in many instances it is because of people like you, dedicated educators, that students obtain the relational resilience they need to overcome adverse childhood experiences. We will reflect together on experiences in our careers where we have been positive influences in the lives of students and together increase our resolve to persevere in this amazing journey of investing ourselves in the lives of young people.  

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Phillip Bertoch

Phillip Bertoch

Human Resources Director, Duchesene County School District
Phillip Bertoch grew up in Duchesne County and graduated from Union High School in 1987. He is the product of rural schools and understands the unique challenges and opportunities that come from living in, and being educated in, a rural community. He is a thirty year career educator... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

11:31am MDT

Unmuting Your Classroom: Supporting Multilingual Learners
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:31am - 11:49am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
đź•’ Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

Empower your multilingual learners! In this session, you'll master essential AI tools for communication. We'll cover document translation using Canva, instant live captions with Google Meet and Class Tools, and creating scaffolded activities that align with language goals using the SchoolAI Chrome Extension and Gemini. Additionally, we'll detail a replicable welcome packet complete with community resources for your newcomers. Leave with immediately applicable strategies to use with your multilingual tomorrow.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Kelli Cannon

Kelli Cannon

Digital Learning Specialist, Jordan School District
Kelli Cannon has been an educator for 12 years, teaching upper elementary students prior to her current role as a Digital Learning Specialist. Kelli holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, as well as endorsements in STEM, Teaching English as a Second Language and Instructional... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:31am - 11:49am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Great Grading!
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level)
In this session, we will share how data, assessments, and grading can be intentionally designed to focus on student centered learning, provide an accurate picture of student strengths and areas for growth, and accurately communicate student proficiency to stakeholders using systems and processes each clearly understand and connect with.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
TC
AP
JW
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Teacher's are Leaders Inside and Outside of the Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204
Teachers have limited professional opportunities outside of moving away from the classroom to the district or admin offices. Educators will learn about how they can take on new leadership roles that are supported by the state board, state legislature, and may even be able to apply for stipends funded by the legislature through matching grants. These new leadership roles allow a teacher to stay in the classroom while expanding their career to new opportunities. We will explore the Utah State board approved Roles of a Teacher Leader Guidebook and the various leadership opportunities for teachers.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: As long as they have a web enabled device it will be fine.

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
SS
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Rediscovering Health Through Rural and State Partnership
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122
Duchesne County School District (DCSD) and the Healthy Environments Active Living (HEAL) Program at the Utah Department of Health and Human Services partnered to strengthen student and staff health through practical, school-based strategies focused on nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and chronic disease management. In a geographically isolated rural district with limited access to healthcare resources and only one school nurse, this partnership created an opportunity to build sustainable systems of support.A key strategy was the creation of a district-level Wellness Coordinator role to bridge schools, community partners, and public health systems. This role supported the development of school-based wellness teams composed of staff and students, who used the School Health Index (SHI) to identify priorities and guide action planning tailored to each school’s needs.Key implementation strategies included: (1) expanding staffing through the addition of school health aides to support student health needs, (2) implementing the SHI across all schools to assess policies and practices, and (3) establishing wellness councils to lead school-level planning and strengthen a culture of health. Schools also engaged in data collection efforts, including the Healthy Students and Healthy Schools Questionnaire, to inform decision-making and monitor progress.These efforts increased engagement among staff, students, and community partners, strengthened cross-sector collaboration, and built a foundation for sustainable, long-term health improvements. This partnership demonstrates how rural districts can leverage relationships, data, and simple systems to create meaningful and lasting change in school health.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
HF
MK
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
SC 122 - Science Center, Room 122 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Writing Formative Assessment Clusters
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201
💻 Format Alert: This is an extended, 2-hour hands-on session—please bring your own laptop or tablet to fully participate!

Have you seen or heard that the RISE assessments have clusters?  We will learn what assessment “clusters” are, how to write them, and then write them for use in our classrooms as part of our formative assessment process.  Participants will be able to focus on ELA, Mathematics, or Science with support from the USBE Assessment Specialists.The RISE assessments in grades 3-10 include clusters, so utilizing this assessment format in classrooms can help prepare students for the RISE assessments.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Jared Wright

Jared Wright

Elementary Math and Science Assessment Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
I have been in Education for 20+ years.  Approximately half of that time was as an elementary school teacher of students in grades 2, 3, and 4.  The other half has been in multiple roles at USBE in the Assessment and Accountability section.
avatar for Dallas Brooks

Dallas Brooks

Elementary ELA Assessment Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Dallas holds a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction as well as a K-12 Reading Endorsement. She has served as both an elementary teacher and a Title I Coordinator, bringing over a decade of experience in supporting student achievement. In her current role, Dallas specializes... Read More →
avatar for Samantha Tinkey

Samantha Tinkey

Secondary Science Assessment Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Sam Tinkey is a Secondary Science Assessment Specialist with USBE. She is an experienced educator and researcher with 11 years in Utah’s public school system, including eight years as a secondary science teacher. Her classroom experience informs her work in improving how instructional... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

The Reclaimed Classroom: Leading AI for Teaching and Learning
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202
💻 Format Alert: This is an extended, 2-hour hands-on session—please bring your own laptop or tablet to fully participate!

AI is already shaping classrooms and schools—but how can teachers and leaders use it to meaningfully improve teaching, learning, and decision-making?In this interactive session, participants will explore lessons from Utah’s AI & School Leadership Collaborative, a statewide effort focused on practical, ethical, and human-centered uses of AI in schools. We will build a shared foundation by unpacking key concepts such as traditional vs. generative AI, large language models (LLMs), bias, hallucinations, and responsible data use, including considerations around PII and “walled garden” tools.Through educator case studies and student-facing scenarios, participants will examine real-world applications of AI for instructional planning, student engagement, and leadership decision-making. Using a simple AI fluency framework (e.g., the 4Ds), participants will explore how to move from awareness to intentional implementation. The session emphasizes ethical use, human judgment, and the role of educators in AI-supported environments.By the end of this session, participants will be able to:Build foundational AI understanding, including key concepts and risksAnalyze AI use cases to identify meaningful instructional and leadership applicationsApply an AI fluency framework to guide responsible implementationIdentify ethical and data privacy considerations in school contextsDevelop one concrete next step for AI use in their setting

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; Windows Tablet / Smartphone; Chromebook

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 đź“š, hiking 🥾, and adventuring across Utah 🏔️. Kayla is dedicated to... Read More →
avatar for Kody Colvin

Kody Colvin

Assistant Director, Professional Learning & Technical Assistance, Utah Education Policy Center
Kody Colvin is the Assistant Director of Professional Learning and Technical Assistance at the Utah Education Policy Center, where he partners with schools and systems to strengthen instructional leadership, professional learning, and continuous improvement efforts. With over 15 years... Read More →
avatar for Matt Winters

Matt Winters

AI Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Matthew Winters is the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Educational Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. He was formerly a product manager and statewide trainer for Utah Education Network.He was the Utah Coalition for Educational Technology (UCET) President for 2022-2024... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

1:30pm MDT

Evidence-Based Instruction Available to Your Area from The UURC
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

In this 2 hour interactive presentation, UURC staff will demonstrate brief examples of the high quality, evidence-based, effective intervention services that can be provided to students at home or in school in rural areas across the state of Utah, providing a breakdown and analysis of the instruction provided at varying developmental reading levels with case studies to show data-based decision making. In this demonstration, participants will see scaffolded reading support in connected text across varied text complexities, as well as with words in isolation, connected with writing, and repeated reading procedures crafted to increase student fluency outcomes.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Breyanna Evans

Breyanna Evans

Reading Intervention Specialist, University of Utah Reading Clinic
Breyanna Evans received her B.S. in creative writing from Utah Valley University. Upon graduating, Breyanna worked as a reading intervention aide at Pinnacle Canyon Academy while she obtained her teaching license. She taught secondary English for three years, first for Pinnacle Canyon... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:01pm MDT

Virtual Field Trips: Instructional Resources
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:01pm - 2:19pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
đź•’ Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

In rural communities, taking a variety of field trips can be challenging. But exposing our students to different peoples and places is so important. This session will provide participants with a list of websites that host free virtual field trips, as well as instructional resources to use before, during, and after field trips to maximize their impact.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
HK

Heather Kennedy

Assistant Professor, SUU - Southern Utah University
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:01pm - 2:19pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Supporting Student Learning and Creativity with Google Vids
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215
Come explore a powerful teaching and learning tool that lives right inside your Google Workspace: Google Vids. In this session, you'll see how Google Vids can replace the work of multiple other tools, all streamlined into an AI-powered creation hub. Learn how to breathe new life into your existing slideshows, harness the power of Gemini to generate instant storyboards, and utilize "pro" features like the built-in teleprompter and AI voiceovers. Whether you want to narrate your slideshows, create how-to screen recordings or "Digital Sub Plans," or want to get your students creating videos, this session will help you learn this cinematic, collaborative learning tool—no expensive software required.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

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 Rob Bentley

Rob Bentley

Instructor and Adobe Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Rob taught secondary Spanish and Language Arts for 6 years. For the last 19 years, he's been teaching teachers how to integrate technology effectively into their curriculum. During his time at UEN, he's presented at URSA,  UELMA, UCET, ISTE, FETC, UFLA, SUMS, and the CTE conferences... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Becoming Digitally Deliberate
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109
Talmage works with teachers and staff to tackle screen time head on.Here is what we cover:The digital dangers affecting students and educators todayAdvice from the "digital doctor" on managing your own screen timeWhat is really happening to our students and why it mattersPractical tips to help kids build healthier habits with technologyStaff will walk away with:A better understanding of their own relationship with screensReal insight into what students are struggling with dailySimple, actionable strategies to help kids manage screen time in and out of the classroom

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
TE
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 109 - General Classroom Building, Room 109 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Educational Technology - including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Literacy, Mental Health, and School Engagement for Students with Learning Disabilities
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level)
Students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities are at increased risk for academic frustration, anxiety, and diminished self-esteem, which can significantly impact their connection to school. For many, repeated experiences of difficulty with reading contribute not only to skill gaps, but also to reduced engagement, increased school avoidance, and a heightened likelihood of negative school outcomes.This session will explore the relationship between literacy challenges and mental health, with a specific focus on how reading difficulties influence student engagement and overall school experience. Participants will learn how to identify these patterns and implement practical, evidence-based supports that address both academic and social-emotional needs.Grounded in research and real-world application, this session will highlight structured literacy approaches, progress monitoring, and systems of support that help students build reading proficiency while also restoring confidence and connection to school. Special attention will be given to actionable strategies Utah educators and administrators can use within MTSS frameworks to better support students with learning disabilities.Participants will leave with a renewed understanding of what matters most—ensuring that every student is not only learning to read, but also feeling successful, connected, and motivated to engage in school.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
PB
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Instructional Coaching, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required. |   School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Collaborative Roots: Building Parent-Teacher Trust to Transform Student Outcomes
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203
In public education, the relationship between a special education teacher and a parent is more than just a professional requirement -- it is the foundation of a student's support system. In close-knit, rural communities, these interactions often extend beyond the classroom, making the establishment of authentic long-term trust both a unique challenge and a significant opportunity. When a genuine partnership is formed, the focus shifts from mere legal compliance to a shared mission of student success. This interactive session, led by two veteran special education teachers and current Utah Teacher Fellows, explores practical, high-impact strategies for fostering trust that endures. We will discuss how to move beyond the formality of the annual IEP meeting to create an ongoing dialogue that honors the parent's lived expertise and the teacher's professional dedication. Participants will engage with three pillars of family partnership:The Anatomy of Trust: Identifying specific communication habits that build–or inadvertently break–rapport with families.Conflict to Collaboration: Utilizing restorative communication techniques to navigate disagreements and turn difficult conversations into collaborative breakthroughs.Measurable Outcomes: Examining how robust home-school bonds lead to increased student engagement, higher teacher efficacy, and a more supportive school culture. Attendees will leave with a practical toolkit of communication templates and “parent-friendly” guides designed to bridge the gap between classroom goals and the home environment, ensuring every stakeholder feels heard, valued, and empowered.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
SN
SW
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 203 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 203 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Leaving Children Behind: Grade Retention in the 21st Century
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level)
Grade retention refers to the practice of requesting that a child repeat a grade or to the postponement of entry into kindergarten or first grade. It has been practiced for generations in schools in the United States. High stakes testing, increased educational accountability, escalating curriculum, and multifaceted sectors of pressure have amplified the practice of grade retention despite mixed evidence of the efficacy related to this highly investigated practice. What does the research say, and what are other options? This session reports research findings across time and explores alternatives to the practice that has been part of the educational landscape for over a century.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
avatar for Pam Powell

Pam Powell

Dean and Professor in the Beverley Taylor Sorenson College of Education and Human Development, SUU - Southern Utah University
Dr. Pam Powell spent over two decades as an elementary teacher prior to her appointment in higher education at Northern Arizona University. While there, she served as Chair of the Department of Teaching and Learning and as Associate Dean of the College of Education. In the state of... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Other, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Virtual Field Trips at the Springville Museum of Art
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127
Visit an art museum from your classroom! The Springville Museum of Art offers FREE virtual tours to K-12 teachers across the state. Whether led by a Museum Educator or self-guided, these interactive virtual tours mimic coming to the Museum in person through 360/VR experiences. Art is a powerful learning tool, providing differentiation and creativity when approaching the Utah Core Standards incorporated into every tour. Meet 4th grade social studies standard requirements by exploring Grand Ambitions, an exhibition celebrating the monumental works and aspirations of Utah artists from Pre-Expansion to the present day. A guided tour through In Sight, Out of Mind brings 6th grade science standards to the classroom through paintings, photographs, and 3D objects that invite us to consider what is easily overlooked in the natural world, including the impact of human activity. Participants of this session will leave with information and resources regarding this incredible USBE funded (through the Utah State Legislature) program, as well as an opportunity to sign up for a virtual tour right then and there.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop; iPad / iPhone; Android Tablet / Smartphone; Windows Tablet / Smartphone
Speakers
PR
CW
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
SC 127 - Science Center, Room 127 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

2:50pm MDT

Demystifying Mastery: The What, the Why and the How of Proficiency Scale Construction
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level)
In a learner-centered classroom, students shouldn't have to guess what success looks like or how to get there; proficiency scales provide the essential GPS for their educational journey. This session will explore the what, why, and how of building scales that transform Utah Core standards into transparent, actionable roadmaps for every learner. We’ll define proficiency scales as a progressive continuum that breaks down complex skills into observable milestones, moving far beyond the static nature of traditional rubrics. By shifting from a "mystery grading" system that combines behaviors and understanding into one opaque measure, we can foster true learner agency, empowering students to identify exactly what they need to know and how to get there. Participants will explore a practical design process: first, exploring standards to identify essential skills; second, crafting clear descriptors for varying levels of mastery from emerging to extending; and third, integrating student voice to ensure the language is accessible and meaningful. By the end of this session, you will be equipped with the tools and concrete examples needed to replace traditional grade books with a system that turns every student into a self-directed, assessment capable learner.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: None

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any of these
Speakers
avatar for Nathan Auck

Nathan Auck

STEM Coordinator, Utah State Board of Education
Nathan Auck has engaged stakeholders at all levels of our country’s educational ecosystem, working towards better experiences and outcomes for each student. In 2015, he was awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, in 2017, he served a year-long... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
  Utah Core Curriculum, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Leadership, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Instructional Coaching, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required. |   Assessment & Data Management, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.
 

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AU - Auditorium
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BC 103 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 103
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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)
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CC Yankee Meadows - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Yankee Meadows Room (100 Level
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