2025 Utah Rural Schools Conference: Full Schedule

Welcome to URSA 2025 at Park City High School!

1:30pm MDT

Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

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

Speakers

Elyse Arrington

ELA Teacher & Reading Interventionist, Utah Teacher Fellow, East High School, Utah Teacher Fellows

Elyse E-Z-E Arrington has worked as a secondary Reading interventionist, Language Arts teacher, and Restorative Justice practitioner for seven years at East High School. Elyse graduated with her MA from Columbia University’s Teachers College in NYC and was a founding teacher at... Read More →

Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #144 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Learning Strand or Track Utah Core Curriculum
Subject Area Language Arts, Social Studies
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, Instructional Coaches, Curriculum Specialists
Grade Level Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

1:30pm MDT

The Role of Prevention and Intervention in school behavior

Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Room #234

This session will cover the importance of prevention and intervention plans as it relates to school behavior issues. The presenter will define both areas and give examples of behavioral strategies in both areas. Prevention will focus on PBIS strategies, and intervention will focus on the most common pediatric disorders seen in classrooms and behavioral strategies for success.

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

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

Speakers

Heidi Mucha

Pediatric Psychologist, Wasatch Pediatric Neuropsychology

Dr. Mucha works as a pediatric psychologist at Wasatch Pediatric Neuropsychology and specializes in ADHD, Anxiety, Learning Disorders and Behavior Disorders. She worked with schools and districts on the implementation of PBIS, RTI and MTSS for 20 years and has taught graduate courses... Read More →

Mucha Rural Schools 2025 pdf

FERPA HIPAA pdf

Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #234 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 Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators
Grade Level All Grade Levels

1:30pm MDT

Navigating the Landscape of School Mental Health: A Comprehensive Systems Approach

Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT

Room #145

The Utah School Mental Health Collaborative (USMHC) Model is a statewide initiative designed to enhance school-based mental health systems through evidence-based practices, technical assistance, training, and community partnerships. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the USMHC framework, guiding participants through the process of implementing a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) for student mental health.

Attendees will be taken on a journey to explore the three-tiered approach of the USMHC Model, beginning with Tier 1, which focuses on school-wide mental health promotion, faculty engagement, and the integration of prevention initiatives. The session will highlight data-driven decision-making using tools like SWTRS and SSWQ, discuss universal screening practices in alignment with Utah laws and USBE-approved screeners (e.g., PHQ, GAD), and examine sustainable funding strategies.

The discussion will then shift to Tier 2, emphasizing targeted interventions for students at increased risk, and Tier 3, which provides intensive individualized support and refined referral processes. Presenters will also address strategies to assist students whose needs extend beyond Tier 3 services.

A key feature of this session is demonstrating how districts and schools can use the SHAPE Assessment to evaluate the strengths and areas for improvement within their comprehensive school mental health system. Presenters will explore how SHAPE results can inform long-term mental health improvement efforts and strategic planning, ensuring sustainable and data-driven enhancements to school mental health infrastructure. Participants will leave with practical tools and strategies for implementing a sustainable, evidence-based school mental health system and learn how the USMHC can support their efforts in advancing student and educator 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: Not Applicable

Speakers

Trevor Olsen

Associate Director of Training and Technical Support, Utah School Mental Health Collaborative - University of Utah

Trevor Olsen Ed.S. is an Associate Director with the University of Utah’s School Mental Health Collaborative (USMHC). USMHC is dedicated to enhancing well-being in educational settings. In his role, Trevor works with schools and school districts to evaluate and create plans to enhance... Read More →

Chathuri (Chat) Illapperuma-Wood

Partnerships Director, Utah School Mental Health Collaborative - University of Utah

Dr. Chathuri (Chat) Illapperuma-Wood Ph.D. is the Partnerships Director at the Utah School Mental Health Collaborative and the U-TTEC Lab within the College of Education at the University of Utah. A nationally certified school psychologist and board-certified behavior analyst, she... Read More →

Matthew T. Smith

Associate Director of Training and Technical Support, Utah School Mental Health Collaborative - University of Utah

Matthew Smith M.Ed. is an Associate Director of Training and Technical Support at the Utah School Mental Health Collaborative (USMHC) within the University of Utah's Department of Educational Psychology, is dedicated to enhancing well-being in educational settings. He excels at evaluating... Read More →

Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #145 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 School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
Subject Area Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators
Grade Level All Grade Levels

1:30pm MDT

Using TBRI and Connection to Teach Content and Standards

Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT

Room #136

This presentation will take the idea of TBRI and show how to implement it in the classroom and wrap it around curriculum. TBRI was created for caregivers but has a clear application to the classroom. This session will give schools some of the tools necessary to teach the curriculum while also meeting student needs.

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

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

Speakers

Amie Huggins

TBRI Coach for Schools, Raise the Future

Amie Huggins is a 30 year classroom teacher. She is also a TBRI Practitioner and the co-author of the book, Creating a Connected Classroom. She works for a non-profit called Raise the Future and through them has developed the curriculum, Tools for Transformation. This curriculum... Read More →

Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #136 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Learning Strand or Track Utah Core Curriculum, Instructional Coaching, School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
Subject Area Leadership, Instructional Coaching
Audience Teachers, Library Media Specialists, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, Instructional Coaches, Curriculum Specialists
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

Shared file URSA NUES/CUES 2025 Executive Function .pdf

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 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 →

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

A veteran educator, Kristin specializes in creating inclusive and effective learning environments for students with diverse needs. She focuses on systemic improvement as an MTSS and Intervention Specialist, coaching educators to deliver high-impact, individualized support.), Kristin... Read More →

URSA NUES:CUES 2025 Executive Function pdf

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #147 1762 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

Utilizing the New Focused Graduation Pathway to Keep Students Engaged

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

Room #232

Too often students who are severely credit deficient become hopeless and drop out of school. The new Focused Graduation Pathway (FGP) provides these students with the opportunity to stay in school and acquire the necessary high school level knowledge and skills needed to pass the GED® test. The FGP will provide a student with a High School Credential and allow them to graduate in the same year as their peers. This session will provide a brief overview of the GED® test and the FGP, including how to bring the pathway into your school or district.

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

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

Speakers

Stephanie Patton

Adult Education Coordinator, Utah State Board of Education

Stephanie's career has focused on working with underrepresented populations in various positions, including teaching and counseling at an alternative school; working as an advisor for Educational Talent Search; directing an adult education program; and working with adult education... Read More →

URSA Focused Graduation Pathway pptx

Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #232 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Utah Core Curriculum, Leadership, Other
Subject Area Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Adult Education, Leadership
Audience Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators
Grade Level High School - grades 9 - 12

9:45am MDT

AI and Privacy: What Every Teacher Needs to Know

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

Room #241

Want to leverage the power of AI in your classroom but worried about student privacy? This session is for you! We'll cover the basics of AI and privacy, including:
- What is AI and how can it be used in education?
- What are the privacy risks of using AI?
- How can you protect student privacy when using AI?
- We'll also provide you with practical tips and resources to help you use AI safely and responsibly.

NOTE: This session repeats on Friday, July 11 at 9:45 am in Room #145.

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

Speakers

John Lyman

Student Data Privacy Specialist, Utah State Board of Education

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

Nicole Sanchez

Student Data Privacy Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education

Nicole Sanchez is a former junior high teacher and instructional coach, and is now a Student Data Privacy Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. Nicole especially loves to work with districts and charter schools across the state to help them improve their privacy practices... Read More →

Jeremy Zabriskie

Data Privacy and Security Specialist, Utah State Board of Education

Jeremy comes to the data privacy team from his previous role as IT Manager at a K6 charter school. While there, he served as the Data Manager and Information Security Officer, in addition to teaching computer science classes. Jeremy’s fervor for cybersecurity is proven by his multiple... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #241 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 Educational Technology, Leadership, Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy
Subject Area Instructional Coaching, Media Literacy
Audience Teachers, Library Media Specialists, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists, Instructional Coaches, Technology Coordinators / Facilitators
Grade Level All Grade Levels

9:45am MDT

Elevate Your Institution's Competetive Advantage with Family Engagement

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

Room #238

Amidst a changing educational environment and increasing competition, this conversational session provides actionable insights into how strategic family engagement can be your institution's most powerful competitive advantage.

We'll move beyond the challenges of declining enrollment to explore concrete methods for building strong family partnerships that attract and retain students. Discover data-driven best practices and identify underutilized resources to elevate your institution's standing and ensure its long-term success through meaningful family involvement.

Join this dynamic conversation to learn practical approaches that will set your institution apart for the future.

Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #238 1758 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Other
Subject Area Leadership, Other
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, Instructional Coaches
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 Transition to Postsecondary Specialist for Students with Disabilities, Utah State Board of Education

Crystal Emery 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 →

2025 URSA HS Experiences Leading to Positive PSO pdf

Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #142 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Empowering Rural Schools Through the Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP): Navigating Opportunities and Challenges.

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

Room #243

This two-hour session is designed to equip Utah rural school administrators with the knowledge and tools to effectively leverage the Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP) to enhance student success and optimize school resources. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the 2024-2025 SEATS process, including enrollment, compliance requirements, and strategies to navigate closeout statuses such as withdrawals, loss of eligibility, and performance benchmarks. The presentation will highlight how SOEP can address challenges unique to rural districts, such as teacher shortages, budget constraints, and limited course offerings, providing students with expanded learning opportunities.
Administrators will explore practical strategies to monitor student engagement, align incentives for success, and ensure compliance with USBE Code and Rule. Real-world case studies and interactive discussions will provide insights into overcoming common challenges while maximizing SOEP's benefits. Budgetary considerations, strategic resource allocation, and collaboration opportunities with stakeholders will also be addressed. The session will conclude with a Q&A segment, offering tailored solutions to individual concerns and actionable next steps. This presentation is an essential resource for rural administrators seeking to enhance educational equity and efficiency through online learning solutions.

Participants MUST HAVE one of the following platforms/devices in order to participate in this session: any sort of smart phone

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

Meagan Johnston

SOEP Program Manager, USBE - Utah State Board of Education

Meagan Johnston is the Program Manager for the Statewide Online Education Program (SOEP) and a dedicated advocate for student choice and equitable access to education. With 21 years of experience in the public education system, Meagan has taught in both the traditional and online... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #243 1755 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

2 hour In-Depth exploration workshop, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required., Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Other
Subject Area Not Applicable
Audience Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists
Grade Level Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

11:10am MDT

Important Lessons in School Safety from a Behavioral Health Perspective

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

Room #134

Targeted violence against schools continues to take place at an alarming rates across our nation, leading to increased fears and anxiety, and threating the very function of schools. Educators are faced with the enormous task of maintaining a safe and welcoming learning environment which is essential to ensuring that students can learn and grow into their best selves. Examining the details behind these horrific events is a terrible yet necessary task. In this session, Utah's School Safety Center's Behavioral Health Specialist, Scott Eyre, will share key findings discovered within his research in an effort to empower educators with the information they need to prevent future violence.

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

Scott Eyre

Emergency Recovery Planning in Schools, Utah Department of Health and Human Services

Scott Eyre serves as the School Based Mental Health Specialist for Utah’s School Safety Center. He works for the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Substance Use and Mental Health and is a member of the Education Advisory Board to the State Security Chief. Scott’s... Read More →

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

Learning Strand or Track Leadership, School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Other
Subject Area Mental/Behavioral Health, Other
Audience Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, All of the above
Grade Level Elementary - grades K - 6, Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

11:10am MDT

Taking a Unified Approach to Meet School Prevention Requirements

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

Room #238

In accordance with Utah law, every school is mandated to develop and implement a substance use prevention plan, also known as a positive behaviors plan, as well as a suicide prevention plan. This presentation will explore how these two essential plans can be integrated to maximize efficiency and effectiveness. By recognizing the overlapping requirements and similar strategies inherent in both plans, school leaders can streamline their efforts, saving valuable time while enhancing their prevention work. Attendees will learn how to create a unified approach that addresses both substance use and suicide prevention, ensuring comprehensive support for students. This session will provide practical insights and actionable strategies for developing cohesive plans that foster positive behaviors and mental health, ultimately contributing to a safer and more supportive school environment.

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

Speakers

Cathy Davis

Prevention Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education

Since 2014, Cathy Davis, M.Ed. has served as the Suicide Prevention Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) focusing on suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention (after a suicide) efforts.
She began her education career in 1994 as a science educator. She taught ecology, biology, and health sciences (anatomy and physiology) for over eighteen years at Murray High School. For seven of those years, she created curriculum and managed a school success program for dropout... Read More →

Clarissa Stebbing

Prevention Specialist, Utah State Board of Education

Clarissa joined the Utah State Board of Education (USBE) as a Prevention Specialist in 2019, where she is primarily responsible for substance use prevention and coordinating the Prevention Block Grant.

Her career began at a substance use disorder treatment center for adolescents, where she gained valuable insight into the importance of prevention. She then went on to spend 11 years working at a non-profit organization where she coordinated community and school-based mentoring programs... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #238 1758 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1 hour traditional lecture/audience participation, Beginner - limited to no experience; no prerequisite skills required., Intermediate - basic core competency; some prerequisite skills required.

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

1:40pm MDT

Rock Band - The Secret to Building Meaningful Music Programs in Rural Schools

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 4:10pm MDT

Gym: LUNCH Hall

Table #4: Great music changes lives, but making and playing great music in a rock band can change the world. To quote Jack Black from The School of Rock, "One Great Rock Show Can Change the World!" Are you interested in building a meaningful, life-changing and school-culture changing music program at your school, or do you already have a music program that needs a little more spice and pizzazz? Then this is the presentation for you. Rock Band represents all genres of popular music heard on the radio - rock, country, pop, punk, hip hop, etc. Most importantly, it represents the popular music that connects our students to the world in which they live. In this presentation/workshop, I will share experiences from my own life and 20 plus years of teaching that reinforce the idea of Rock Band and popular music as essential elements of modern music programs. I will teach you how to build Rock Band programs in your school on a limited budget. Lastly, I will demonstrate with volunteers from the audience how to create a performing rock ensemble on day 1 using ukuleles. And if I am able, I will include live performances from the Rich High School Rock Band.

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

Chris Woods

Music Teacher, Rich High School

Chris has been a music educator, songwriter, composer, and performer for over 20 years. He began his teaching career at a small after-school academy in Park City in which he taught guitar lessons to students ages 10-50. When he became a full-time teacher, he was able to expand the... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 4:10pm MDT
Gym: LUNCH Hall

2 hour Playground - hands-on and discussion, Advanced - considerable experience; significant prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Leadership, Instructional Coaching, School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
Subject Area Performing Arts / Visual Arts, Music
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators
Grade Level Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8, High School - grades 9 - 12

1:40pm MDT

Lead From the Classroom to the Community

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 4:10pm MDT

Black Box Theater

Table #5: Discover how early-career teachers can step into leadership as Community Outreach Leads by building strong partnerships between schools, families, and local organizations. This session explores how this role provides teachers with opportunities to grow professionally, strengthen relationships with students and families (especially marginalized communities) and create meaningful school-community connections.

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: No

Speakers

Fangaafa Tuifua

Teacher, Teacher Fellows

Fangaafa Fataimoemanu Tu’ifua, known to her students as Ms. Fatai, is currently a 5th grade teacher at Canyons School District and serves as a Hope Street Group Utah Teacher Fellow. She was Teacher of the Year 2023-2024 at East Midvale Elementary. Her greatest investment as a teacher-leader... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 4:10pm MDT
Black Box Theater 1761 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

2 Hour Poster Session - informal discussions, Advanced - considerable experience; significant prerequisite skills required.

Learning Strand or Track Leadership
Subject Area Leadership, Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers, Library Media Specialists, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists, Instructional Coaches
Grade Level All Grade Levels

3:10pm MDT

Building Bridges: Practical Strategies to Empower Teachers To Help All Language Learners Succeed

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

Room #147

Helping ESL students succeed can be challenging, especially when negative academic transitions lead to poor performance, low self-esteem or even school dropout. How can we better engage these students and motivate them to improve their English skills and communicate more effectively?
In this session, you'll learn practical strategies and resources to support ESL learners in diverse classrooms. We'll explore ways to create an inclusive environment, break down language barriers, and help students transition smoothly into their academic journey. Whether you teach in a dual-language program, world language classroom, or work with multilingual students in a regular classroom,You’ll walk away with easy-to-apply, powerful tools to help your learners thrive and reach their full potential.

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

Talia A. Casares

DLI Teacher, North Sanpete School District

Talia A. Casares, originally from Mexico City, moved to the U.S. to pursue a degree in Spanish teaching. She holds a Master’s in Spanish Pedagogy from Brigham Young University and has earned endorsements in Dual Language Immersion (DLI), TESOL, STEM, and Educational Technology... Read More →

Patricia Zavala

DLI Teacher, North Sanpete School District

Patricia Zavala is a 5th-grade Spanish Dual Immersion teacher at North Sanpete School District with nearly 30 years of experience teaching Spanish and English in diverse classroom settings. She has taught in language institutes, bilingual, and multilingual schools in her hometown... Read More →

Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Room #147 1762 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 ESL, World Languages
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, Instructional Coaches, Curriculum Specialists
Grade Level All Grade Levels

3:10pm MDT

Raising Resilient Kids In A Tech Heavy World

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

Room #238

As a counselor, Nate has had the unique experience of hearing from kids what they are going through in this digital age. In this presentation, Nate sheds light on the digital landscape kids are navigating. He also give insights for educators and parents on how to help preserve their kids' childhood and promote resiliency in this tech heavy world. You'll learn about tech boundaries, how to approach sensitive topics with kids, and more.

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

Nate Webb

Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Room #238 1758 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Learning Strand or Track Educational Technology, School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy
Subject Area Mental/Behavioral Health, Media Literacy
Audience Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators
Grade Level All Grade Levels

3:10pm MDT

Utah Out-of-School-Time Needs Assessment--Findings and Next Steps

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

Room #237

In partnership with the Utah Department of Workforce Services, Office of Child Care (DWS-OCC), the Utah Afterschool Network (UAN), and the Utah State Board of Education (USBE), the UEPC - Utah Education Policy Center conducted a statewide needs assessment of out-of-school time programs for elementary aged students during the 2023-24 school year. The purpose of this needs assessment was to study existing out-of-school time (OST) program opportunities intentionally designed to meet the needs of students and families throughout the state, identify any current gaps in services for youth and families, and explore the availability of resources to support OST program teams in meeting these needs.

The planning, data collection, data analysis and reporting of the findings and considerations for this needs assessment were organized according to six OST topic areas: (1) Access and Availability, (2) Programming Capacity, (3) Program Quality and Continuous Improvement, (4) Partnerships, (5) Alignment with the School Day, and (6) Availability of Resources and Funding.This conference session will explore the central themes that emerged in these six areas, highlighting the important role that OST programs play in providing critical services (e.g., safe environment, homework help, nutritious snacks) for many Utah students and their families in rural communities. Participants in this session will also explore considerations for future OST programs, including accessing and utilizing additional OST program resources, considering partnerships within and beyond their local communities to provide additional resources and program support, and intentionally aligning OST programs with the school 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: Not Applicable

Speakers

Lisa Wisham

Senior Research & Evaluation Associate and School & District Improvement Specialist, Utah Education Policy Center

Lisa Wisham, M.Ed., is a Senior Research & Evaluation Associate and School & District Improvement Specialist at the Utah Education Policy Center (UEPC). For the past nine years, she has worked with the UEPC team to provide on-site and virtual support, data collection, leadership coaching... Read More →

URSA 2025 Presentation Utah OST Needs Assessment pdf

Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Room #237 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Learning Strand or Track Other
Subject Area Other
Audience Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators
Grade Level Elementary - grades K - 6

9:45am MDT

AI and Privacy: What Every Teacher Needs to Know

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

Room #145

Want to leverage the power of AI in your classroom but worried about student privacy? This session is for you! We'll cover the basics of AI and privacy, including:
- What is AI and how can it be used in education?
- What are the privacy risks of using AI?
- How can you protect student privacy when using AI?
- We'll also provide you with practical tips and resources to help you use AI safely and responsibly.

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

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

Speakers

John Lyman

Student Data Privacy Specialist, Utah State Board of Education

Nicole Sanchez

Student Data Privacy Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education

Jeremy Zabriskie

Data Privacy and Security Specialist, Utah State Board of Education

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

Learning Strand or Track Educational Technology, Leadership, Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy
Subject Area Instructional Coaching, Media Literacy
Audience Teachers, Library Media Specialists, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists, Instructional Coaches, Technology Coordinators / Facilitators
Grade Level All Grade Levels

9:45am MDT

Antecedents in the Classroom: What's the Function?

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

Room #147

This presentation will provide educators with a background in function-based thinking and antecedent interventions in the classroom. We will review common challenging behavior seen in the classroom such as disruption and noncompliance, how to consider potential functions of those behaviors, and how to select antecedent interventions to support students and prevent challenging behavior. Antecedent interventions are interventions that educators can use as a way to support students before challenging behavior begins through small manipulations in the environment and their own behavior, and can be easy to implement consistently with success.

ParticipantsMAY FIND IT USEFUL to 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: No

Speakers

Emma Preston

Doctoral Candidate, Utah State University

Emma Preston is a fourth year doctoral candidate in Utah State University's Disabilities Disciplines program specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis. She has an M.S. in Special Education and is working towards her Board Certified Behavior Analyst credential. She has been working... Read More →

Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #147 1762 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 School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
Subject Area Special Education, Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals
Grade Level Elementary - grades K - 6, Middle School / Jr. High - grades 6 - 8

11:00am MDT

Self Care: What is it?

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

Room #145

We will discuss what self care is and what it is not

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

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

Speakers

Sheryl Vernon

School Psychologist, CUES - Central Utah Educational Services

Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #145 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Learning Strand or Track Educational Technology, Utah Core Curriculum, Leadership, Instructional Coaching, Professional Learning Communities (PLCs & PLNs), School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Digital Citizenship & Media Literacy, Assessment & Data Management
Subject Area Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers, Library Media Specialists, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists, Instructional Coaches, 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 Transition to Postsecondary Specialist for Students with Disabilities, Utah State Board of Education

Deanna Taylor

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

Deanna Taylor is a Postsecondary Transition for Students with Disabilities Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. Her public education career has spanned over 40 years as a music teacher, special education teacher, special education director and college instructor in three... Read More →

2025 Rural Schools Presentation Predictors Final pdf

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

Creating a predictable environment for optimal behavior In our schools and classrooms

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

Room #237

Environments are the key to safety and security for our students. When we can provide environments that are consistent with behavioral principals we create an environment with fewer behavioral struggles and students that are happy and well adjusted.

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

Speakers

Elizabeth Howcroft

Board Certified Behavior Analyst, LBA, licensed Special Education Teacher, Northeastern Educational Services

Liz was born and raised in rural Utah where she has worked with students and families of students with high educational and behavior needs for the past 20 years. Liz has worked in education, foster care, early intervention, and the clinic setting both in home and in clinic.
Liz... Read More →

Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #237 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Learning Strand or Track School-based Mental & Behavioral Health
Subject Area Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers, Library Media Specialists, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, District / School Administrators, EdTech Coach/Digital Teaching & Learning Specialists, Instructional Coaches, Technology Coordinators / Facilitators
Grade Level All Grade Levels

11:00am MDT

Engendering Hope in Teachers and Students: Using the Skills of Improv and Storytelling in Education

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

Room #146

This presentation will cover the skills of storytelling and how research has confirmed the place of narrative in improving student hope levels. The concept of improv will also be presented as a means for students in any class to create stories with expression, and how these activities can also increase teacher self efficacy and PLC collective efficacy.

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

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

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

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

Speakers

Jacob Earnest

Literature and Improv Instructor at American Heritage, Doctoral Candidate in Education at USU, American Heritage School, Utah State University

Jacob Earnest is a full-time teacher of literature and improvisational theatre in American Fork. He also is finishing his doctoral work in Education from Utah State University. His research focus is on the use of oral storytelling and its relationship to student hope and narrative... Read More →

Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #146 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Learning Strand or Track Leadership, Instructional Coaching, School-based Mental & Behavioral Health, Other
Subject Area Language Arts, Performing Arts / Visual Arts, Mental/Behavioral Health
Audience Teachers, Counselors or School-based Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals, Instructional Coaches
Grade Level All Grade Levels, High School - grades 9 - 12

1:30pm MDT

The Dignity Index: How to disagree without being disagreeable

Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

ED 204 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 204

The Dignity Index is an eight-point scale that can be used for both students and staff to learn how to disagree without being disagreeable. Classrooms are where students discuss ideas. And the discussions of ideas can and should lead to disagreement to create new ideas. For this process to work students must learn the skills of civil discussion, especially as the ideas in social studies or English classrooms become more complex and never have a single right answer. We will discuss the Dignity Index and how it meets both state and national standards while discussing the ideas of your content. During the discussion, we will both practice using the Index in the high school classroom as well as reflecting on its positive impacts for students and teachers outside your classroom.

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

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

Speakers