2025 Utah Rural Schools Conference: Full Schedule

Only Purchase One Ticket for Each Individual Attendee
Full URSA 2025 Session Schedule will be published here NO LATER than June 1. Please check back soon!

2:50pm MDT

Adding in AI for Accessibility with Google Tools

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT

Lecture Hall

This session explores how to leverage AI-powered features within Google tools to enhance accessibility for all students. Attendees will learn how to utilize tools MusicFX, Say What You See, Notebook LM, and Google Learn to create an inclusive classroom environment. The session will cover practical strategies such as voice typing for students with writing difficulties, AI-powered translation tools for multilingual learners, and accessibility features in NotebookLM to support all learners. Additionally, learners will see how to incorporate Google's AI experiments into everyday instruction to support all learners. Participants will leave with actionable tips on how to integrate these tools into daily classroom routines, ensuring every student can engage with learning materials effectively.

NOTE: This session repeats on Friday, July 11 at 11:00 am 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: Mac Laptop, Windows Laptop, Android Tablet / Smartphone, iPad / iPhone, Windows Tablet / Smartphone, Chromebook

Speakers

Emma Moss

DTL Specialist, Canyons SD

Emma's main role is as a Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist and AI Project Co-Lead in Canyons School District. Emma also currently serves as the Artificial Intelligence for K-12 Education Program Director. In addition to her current roles, Emma Moss founded the Utah AI Collaborative... Read More →

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 →

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm 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.

Learning Strand or Track Educational Technology
Subject Area Special Education, Media Literacy
Audience All of the above
Grade Level All Grade Levels

2:50pm MDT

Designing Support for students with Executive Function Skill challenges

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT

Room #147

Executive function skills encompass cognitive processes like planning, organizing, working memory, and self-regulation. These skills are crucial for academic success and daily life. Students with ADHD and Autism often struggle with these functions, leading to difficulties in school and social settings. Effective supports and interventions can be the catalyst for these students' academic success. In this presentation, you will learn about executive function skills, how the brain operates and manages these skills, and how to create effective interventions for students in need of extra support.

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

Speakers

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 →

Lauren Ezzell

Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Central Utah Educational Services

Lauren Ezzell is a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a Licensed Behavior Analyst (LBA). She has a Master’s Degree in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis and has been with CUES since 2019. Lauren is passionate about providing behavior-analytic... Read More →

Katie Clark

BCBA, School Psychologist Intern, NUES - Northern Utah Educational Services

Educational Background: EdS- School Psychology BYU (August 2025) , MA Applied Behavior Analysis – Ball State University – Muncie, IN, BA Psychology – Flagler College – St. Augustine, FL Licensed BCBA for NUES Hobbies & Interests: Soccer, Skiing, Camping, Mtn. Biking, Cooking... Read More →

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #147 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.

Learning Strand or Track Instructional Coaching, Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Assessment & Data Management
Subject Area Special Education, Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists, Instructional Coaches, Curriculum Specialists
Grade Level All Grade Levels

2:50pm MDT

Reaching Every Student: How Utah is Using Early Warning Systems to Support Student Success

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT

Room #134

In an era where personalized support is more critical than ever, Utah is leading the way in using data-driven tools to reach and teach every student. This session will explore the state’s implementation of Panorama Student Success as a statewide Early Warning System (EWS), designed to proactively identify students who may be at risk of falling off track and ensure timely, targeted interventions.
Schools and districts across the state are using Panorama Student Success to monitor key indicators such as attendance, behavior, and coursework in one centralized platform. This system empowers educators with real-time, actionable insights to support students.
Attendees will learn how Panorama Student Success aligns with Utah’s broader vision for supporting a positive and safe school culture, and hear examples of how educators are using this tool to build intervention plans, collaborate across teams, and ensure no student falls through the cracks. We’ll also highlight the importance of cross-district collaboration and state leadership in scaling an EWS that serves student populations statewide.
Whether you’re exploring how to strengthen your own student support systems or looking to build a similar initiative, this session will offer practical takeaways, lessons learned, and inspiration from Utah’s ongoing journey to reach every student, every day.

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

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

Speakers

Nicole DellaRocco

Senior Account Director, Panorama Education

Nicole DellaRocco is a Senior Account Director at Panorama Education, where she partners with state and district leaders across the country to support student success through data-driven practices. In her role, Nicole works closely with organizations like the Utah State Board of Education... Read More →

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm 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., Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Educational Technology, Assessment & Data Management
Subject Area Language Arts, Mathematics, STEM / STEAM, Special Education, Career and Technical Education, Mental/Behavioral Health, Other
Audience Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators
Grade Level All Grade Levels

2:50pm MDT

Roles and Responsibilities for Faculty and Staff for ALL Learners

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT

Room #148

The "Roles and Responsibilities for Faculty and Staff for ALL Learners" presentation will focus on the essential roles and responsibilities that educators and staff members must embrace to ensure an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. The session will highlight the importance of understanding diverse learner needs, including students with varying abilities, backgrounds, and learning styles. Faculty and staff will be encouraged to develop a mindset of equity, fostering an environment where every learner has the opportunity to succeed. Key points will include differentiating instruction, providing accommodations and support services, promoting active engagement, and establishing clear communication between staff, students, and families. Participants will explore best practices for collaboration, such as working with special education teams, utilizing technology tools, and creating personalized learning plans. Additionally, the presentation will emphasize the significance of professional development, continuous self-reflection, and being proactive in addressing challenges in the classroom. The goal is to empower faculty and staff to take collective responsibility for all learners' success, ensuring that each student feels valued, understood, and supported in their educational journey.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Android Tablet / Smartphone

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Android Tablet / Smartphone, Windows Tablet / Smartphone

Speakers

Tony Pellegrini

Professor and Department Chair, Southern Utah University

Tony Pellegrini is a professor of Education at Southern Utah University. He received his B.A from Brigham Young University, his M.Ed. from Utah State University, and terminal degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, before eventually becoming school principal at Blanding Elementary... Read More →

Jenna Olson

Principal, Monticello Elementary

Jenna Olson is a highly motivated and self-directed educator with extensive experience in both teaching and school administration. Currently serving as the principal at Monticello Elementary School, she has successfully led the school through post-COVID challenges, fostering a thriving... Read More →

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #148 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Leadership
Subject Area Special Education
Audience Teachers, District / School Administrators
Grade Level All Grade Levels

9:45am MDT

Pathways to Success: Positive School Experiences Supporting Students with Disabilities

Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Room #142

Join us for an insightful session as we explore Utah's Post School Outcomes! Dive into the results of a comprehensive research study analyzing five years of data from the annual post school outcomes survey. Discover the trends and positive experiences identified by students and families during high school that have led to success after graduation. We'll discuss how these findings can significantly impact planning for the transition to adulthood for students with disabilities in Utah. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and practical strategies to support our students' journey to a successful future.

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

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 →

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 →

Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #142 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.

Learning Strand or Track Other
Subject Area Special Education, Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals
Grade Level Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

9:45am MDT

Tier 1 Text: Scaffolded Reading Techniques to Engage Every Student

Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT

Room #148

This two-hour interactive presentation will consist of an overview of the University of Utah Reading Clinic’s research-based Tier 1 Text model with a focus on how this model allows teachers to support and reach every student. The purpose of this model is to assist students in building fluency and comprehension for immediate and transfer text.

This instructional model can be used with any and all adopted curricula and supports Utah State ELA Standards. The research base for the UURC Tier 1 Text model is broad and includes Logan’s (1997) automaticity theory; Stahl, Kuhn, and Schwanenflugel’s (2003, 2005, 2006, 2008) empirical and applied work related to fluency oriented reading instruction; and Beck and McKeown’s (1996, 2004, 2006, 2010) questioning the author empirical and applied work. Recent research is showing significant improvements for students receiving UURC Tier 1 Text instruction (Opatz & Kocherhans, 2023).

Specific scaffolding strategies will be demonstrated and practiced. Some of these strategies include preview with graphic organizer, various comprehension supports, echo read, review, whole class choral re-read, documenting new ideas on graphic organizer.

Specific engagement strategies are built into these procedures and will be demonstrated: Echo reading, choral reading, echo spelling, scaffolded comprehension questioning, location/action prompts, roving the classroom, graphic organizer work.

The last thirty minutes of the presentation will be dedicated to Q&A related to presentation content as well as UURC services and professional development opportunities available to rural schools.

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

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Some device with internet access for the end of the presentation

Speakers

Breyanna Evans

Intervention Specialist, University of Utah Reading Clinic

Breyanna Evans received her Bachelor of Science 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... Read More →

Rachelle Packer

Intervention Specialist, University of Utah Reading Clinic

Rachelle Packer (M.Ed.) earned a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences from Brigham Young University, and a Master’s of Education degree in Reading and Literacy from the University of Utah with an Advanced Reading Endorsement and an Intervention Endorsement. Rachelle has been a... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #148 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Other
Subject Area Language Arts, ESL, Special Education, Instructional Coaching
Audience Teachers, District / School Administrators, Instructional Coaches
Grade Level All Grade Levels

11:10am MDT

Scrible 101: Free Research and Writing Platform for Newbies

Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT

Room #233

Did you know that Scrible is a FREE award winning resource for all public/charter school teachers and students in Utah? If you've never used Scrible or are just getting started, come learn how to use this powerful platform to streamline research and elevate writing in your class. We'll get you set up, walk you through creating an assignment, annotating online articles and more. We'll also review how you can use Scrible to prevent AI plagairism and scaffold the writing process for students.

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

Shilpa Duvoor

Head of Customer Success, Scrible

Shilpa has over 20 years of experience in education as a teacher, school leader, leadership coach, and a customer success leader in edtech startups. She has worked with innovative ed tech companies and districts all over the United States. She is the Head of Customer Success at Scrible... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #233 1759 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.

Learning Strand or Track Educational Technology, Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy
Subject Area Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, World Languages, Special Education, Leadership, Instructional Coaching, Media Literacy
Audience Teachers, Library Media Specialists, EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists
Grade Level Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

11:10am MDT

A Love Affair With Picture Books Across the Standards

Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT

Room #143

Join us for an exciting session where you will discover how picture books can support the Utah Core Standards across all subjects! You will leave with fun ideas that can be applied to any picture books you own, as well as a wealth of book titles to add to your wish list!

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

Teresa Pugmire

PreK-12 Learning Coach, Northeastern Utah Educational Services

Teresa serves as a Learning Coach for rural schools in northeastern Utah. In her role, she supports teachers, coaches, and administrators in enhancing literacy and math outcomes for their schools. Additionally, she is an adjunct professor at Brigham Young University, where she teaches... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #143 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Utah Core Curriculum, Instructional Coaching, Other
Subject Area Language Arts, ESL, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, Instructional Coaching
Audience Teachers, Library Media Specialists, Instructional Coaches, Curriculum Specialists
Grade Level PK - 2, 3 - 4, 5 - 6, Elementary - grades K - 6

11:10am MDT

Learning How to be Diagnostic. Evidence-Based Interventions Made Easy and How to Intensify Them for Each Tier.

Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 2:40pm MDT

Room #145

This collaborative learning opportunity will present the research-based information obtained from Matt Burns's book Effective School Interventions and combine it with research by Stevenson and Reed 2017 (Instruction for intensify interventions), The National Center for Intensify Instruction, The Taxonomy of Intensify Instruction by Fuch et al. 2017 and the High-Level Practices (CDC). So when a teacher returns to their classroom, they will be able to pinpoint what intervention each student needs (through diagnosis) and then adjust its intensity. Attendees, please be prepared to share information about successes and failures with the intervention, in confidence.

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, iPad / iPhone

Speakers

Sheryl Vernon

School Psychologist, CUES - Central Utah Educational Services

Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 2:40pm MDT
Room #145 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

2 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Instructional Coaching, Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Assessment & Data Management, Other
Subject Area Language Arts, Performing Arts / Visual Arts, Music, Computer Science, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, World Languages, Special Education
Audience Teachers, District / School Administrators, Instructional Coaches
Grade Level All Grade Levels

11:30am MDT

Mindset Shifts: Actionable Growth Mindset Techniques

Thursday July 10, 2025 11:30am - 11:47am MDT

Room #144

This presentation proposes a practical framework and actionable steps for integrating Carol Dweck's "Mindset" principles into special education classrooms. We will explore the transformative power of shifting from a fixed to a growth mindset, emphasizing the importance of educators embodying these principles to foster authentic implementation. Many students, particularly those with special needs, perceive setbacks as indicators of inherent limitations, hindering their progress and discouraging further effort. We will outline the core concepts of fixed and growth mindsets, illustrating their impact on learning and resilience through real-world examples from educational research. Subsequently, we will present actionable strategies for fostering a growth mindset, focusing on the effective use of specific praise. Finally, educators will leave with a concrete implementation plan to integrate these practices into their classrooms. https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1B1gwrJgE8YTccayKsuzy8ur90_cLPxB69fjIp_33k4c/edit?usp=sharing
https://www.amazon.com/Mindset-Psychology-Carol-S-Dweck/dp/0345472322

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: Not Applicable

Speakers

Dani Tuttle

Special Education Teacher, Preschool Supervisor

Thursday July 10, 2025 11:30am - 11:47am MDT
Room #144 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

20 minute focus on specific solutions or tools (Over The Shoulder), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Other
Subject Area Special Education, Other
Audience Teachers
Grade Level All Grade Levels

1:40pm MDT

Next Up in Postsecondary Transition: We’ve Got You Covered!

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 1:57pm MDT

Room #144

It’s show time! Introducing Utah’s very first interagency website on postsecondary transition: Utah Transition Elevated, newly launched in August of 2024! Learn about this comprehensive resource that serves as a “one stop shop” for everything related to preparing youth with disabilities for adult life. Utah Transition Elevated supports efforts to improve services and outcomes for youth. There is something for everyone - parents and families, youth, community partners and educators. You name it, we’ve got it - employment, education, independent living, healthcare – the list goes on. Bring your own device to dive into all the rich content and tools available to add to your toolkit of resources.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Any device that can access the Internet.

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Any device that can access the Internet.

Speakers

Crystal Emery

SSIP and Secondary Transition Specialist for Students with Disabilities, Utah State Board of Education

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 →

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 1:57pm MDT
Room #144 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

20 minute focus on specific solutions or tools (Over The Shoulder), Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Other
Subject Area Special Education
Audience All of the above
Grade Level Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

1:40pm MDT

Scrible 102: Scaffolding Research and Writing in ELA & Social Studies

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT

Room #233

Scrible, an award winning FREE resource for all Utah public/charter school teachers and students, is chock full of features that can help students and teachers scaffold the research and writing process. Learn how to use Scrible's advanced features to strengthen students' writing and media literacy skills. We will review how to track student progress, provide timely and specific feedback, and effectively use the Scrible Writer doc add-on.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: Highly suggested to use a laptop or tablet of any kind and not a mobile device.

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

Shilpa Duvoor

Head of Customer Success, Scrible

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Room #233 1759 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Educational Technology, Instructional Coaching, Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy
Subject Area Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, World Languages, Special Education
Audience Teachers, Library Media Specialists, EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists, Instructional Coaches
Grade Level Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

3:10pm MDT

Self-Determination is on the Menu!

Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT

Room #144

Welcome to Determination Diner where self-determination is on the menu!
Have you attempted to figure out how to embed functional skills into academic content?
Have you tried to actively involve students in their IEP meetings but you're not sure how?
Is self-determination on your menu of instructional choices?
Self-determination/self-advocacy has been identified as a research-based predictor of postschool success; the elements of which can be incorporated into postsecondary transition planning to support students in creating effective postsecondary transition plans. So, bring your appetite and join us for a session catered to your needs!
We will provide a brief overview of self-determination, after which participants will choose from a menu of self-determination to apply to their respective settings. Work with us and other participants in this session to select a resource and develop and action plan to use the resource. Collaboration will be fostered, and resources will be provided to take with you. There will be time to share out to learn from each other about the use of the resources.
Join us for an incredible dining experience of self-determination appetizers, main course items, desserts and chef's specials!
Bon appétit!

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, Chromebook

Speakers

Deanna Taylor

Postsecondary Transition Specialist, Utah State Board of Education

Julianne Hunter

Doctoral Student | Graduate Research Assistant, USU - Utah State University

Stephen Kwiatek

Assistant Professor, USU - Utah State University

Stephen M. Kwiatek, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of special education at Utah State University (USU). Stephen’s research interests focus on preparing youth with disabilities for equitable postschool lives through three strands: (a) general education teacher involvement in college... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Room #144 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Other
Subject Area Special Education, Other
Audience Teachers, Instructional Coaches
Grade Level Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

3:10pm MDT

Try Walking In My Shoes

Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT

Room #133

This presentation will provide helpful information on strategies to assist children who have a variety of different learning abilities. Teachers will have an opportunity to see through the eyes of these differently abled students, and experience some of the different struggles these students may face in the classroom. This presentation will also provide many helpful strategies to make the classroom a more welcoming and safe place for students of all abilities.

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

Speakers

BethAnne Chidester

Severe Special Ed Teacher, Manti High School

BethAnne has taught special education for 20 years. She has a deep passion for working with people with different abilities and loves to share with others what she's learned in and out of the classroom.

Hillary Palmer

Occupational Therapist, South Sanpete School District

Hillary has a Master's Degree in Occupational Therapy and is entering her 10th year of school based occupational therapy practice. She has worked with kids from the ages of 3 up until they age out of high school, and has worked with kids of all different ability levels. She offers... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Room #133 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Hands-On-Activities, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
Subject Area Special Education, Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers
Grade Level All Grade Levels

3:10pm MDT

Practical Classroom Management: Addressing the Current Behavioral Changes

Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT

Room #145

This presentation aims to equip educators with practical, research-based strategies to manage elevated student behavior while fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. As behavioral challenges in classrooms continue to rise, teachers are often left balancing academic expectations with the need to support students exhibiting disruptive, defiant, or emotionally intense behaviors. This session is ideal for general and special education teachers, paraprofessionals, and school leaders seeking practical tools for immediate application.

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

Speakers

Lauren Ezzell

Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Central Utah Educational Services

Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Room #145 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

Learning Strand or Track School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
Subject Area Special Education, Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, Instructional Coaches
Grade Level All Grade Levels

9:45am MDT

Diffusing Defiance- Navigating Resistance Effectively

Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Room #145

What to Do When All You Hear is, “No!”in this presentation, participants will discover effective behavioral strategies to navigate and transform resistance into cooperation. Attendees will learn a basic understanding in why this behavior occurs, how to reframe objections, use positive reinforcement, and build rapport to create a more collaborative environment. By the end, they will be equipped with practical tools to foster understanding and encourage positive outcomes in challenging interactions.

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

Katie Clark

BCBA, School Psychologist Intern, NUES - Northern Utah Educational Services

Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #145 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
Subject Area Special Education, Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience All of the above
Grade Level All Grade Levels

9:45am MDT

How to Solve the AI Plagiarism Problem: Process over Product

Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

Room #233

ChatGPT spawned the massive issue of "AI plagiarism." Research shows 44% of secondary students are likely to use AI to do their schoolwork instead of doing it themselves. AI detectors fail to reliably catch this problem. What to do? Assess writing as a process, not just the paper! Scrible prevents AI plagiarism by making the entire writing process visible to teachers. It does for writing what we've always asked students to do in math - show your work. Come learn how this pedagogically sound approach - “process over product” - safeguards authentic learning and academic integrity.

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

Shilpa Duvoor

Head of Customer Success, Scrible

Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #233 1759 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Educational Technology, Leadership, Instructional Coaching, Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy
Subject Area Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, World Languages, Special Education
Audience All of the above
Grade Level Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

11:00am MDT

Adding in AI for Accessibility with Google Tools

Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Room #131

This session explores how to leverage AI-powered features within Google tools to enhance accessibility for all students. Attendees will learn how to utilize tools MusicFX, Say What You See, Notebook LM, and Google Learn to create an inclusive classroom environment. The session will cover practical strategies such as voice typing for students with writing difficulties, AI-powered translation tools for multilingual learners, and accessibility features in NotebookLM to support all learners. Additionally, learners will see how to incorporate Google's AI experiments into everyday instruction to support all learners. Participants will leave with actionable tips on how to integrate these tools into daily classroom routines, ensuring every student can engage with learning materials effectively.

NOTE: This session repeats on Wednesday, July 9 at 2:50 pm in the Lecture Hall.

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

Emma Moss

DTL Specialist, Canyons SD

Kelli Cannon

Digital Learning Specialist, Jordan School District

Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #131 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.

Learning Strand or Track Educational Technology
Subject Area Special Education, Media Literacy
Audience All of the above
Grade Level All Grade Levels

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

Crystal Emery

SSIP and Secondary Transition Specialist for Students with Disabilities, Utah State Board of Education

Deanna Taylor

Postsecondary Transition Specialist, Utah State Board of Education

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.

Learning Strand or Track Other
Subject Area Special Education, Other
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals
Grade Level Elementary - grades K - 6, Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

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

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.