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Welcome to URSA 2025 at Park City High School!

Subject: Library Media Specialists clear filter
Wednesday, July 9
 

1:30pm MDT

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

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

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

Lora Gibbons

Senior Technical Trainer
Utah Education Network
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #232 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1:30pm MDT

Beyond the Page: Elevating Students with Digital Resources
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Step into the dynamic world of digital literacy and discover how to transform your classroom with two powerful resources: Teaching Books and Sora ebooks. This session will equip K-12 educators with practical strategies to enhance student engagement and deepen comprehension through multimedia content and digital access.
Are you looking for innovative ways to bring books to life? We'll explore Teaching Books, a treasure trove of author interviews, book trailers, lesson plans, and more, designed to spark curiosity and connect students with literature on a deeper level. Learn how to leverage these resources to introduce new units, generate excitement for reading, and support diverse learning needs.
Then, dive into Sora, your school's digital library, and discover the ease and accessibility of ebooks and audiobooks. We'll demonstrate how to navigate this user-friendly platform, assign digital materials, and track student progress. Learn how to provide equitable access to a vast collection of titles, support struggling readers with built-in accessibility features, and encourage independent reading.
Join us to discover how to seamlessly integrate Teaching Books and Sora into your curriculum, creating a comprehensive digital literacy experience that goes "Beyond the Page" and empowers your students to become lifelong readers and learners.

Link to presentation here

NOTE: This session repeats on Thursday, July 10 at 3:10 pm in Room 242.

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

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

Chris Haught

Media Specialist, SEDC - Southwest Educational Development Center
Chris Haught is the Technology/Media Mentor at Southwest Educational Service Center (SEDC), a regional Service Center that serves six district and seven charter ELA’s.Chris works closely with the region’s librarians providing support and training
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #235 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1:30pm MDT

What's New and Exciting in Adobe Express?
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Adobe Express continues to evolve in innovative and exciting ways. This session will showcase the latest (and best) new features, including the amazing new mobile app, the powerful Classrooms feature, useful Google Drive and Canva integrations, how to make your own assignment templates, and more! You'll come away from this session even more ready to Express yourself with this most useful Adobe tool.

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, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Rob Bentley

Rob Bentley

Instructor and Adobe Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Rob taught secondary Spanish and Language Arts for 6 years. For the last 19 years, he's been teaching teachers how to integrate technology effectively into their curriculum. During his time at UEN, he's presented at URSA,  UELMA, UCET, ISTE, FETC, UFLA, SUMS, and the CTE conferences... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #231 1763 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1:30pm MDT

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

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

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

Amie Huggins

TBRI Coach for Schools, Raise the Future
Amie Huggins is a 30 year classroom teacher.  She is also a TBRI Practitioner and the co-author of the book, Creating a Connected Classroom.  She works for a non-profit called Raise the Future and through them has developed the curriculum, Tools for Transformation.  This curriculum... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #136 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

2:50pm MDT

Full Class Missions: Bridge the Gap Between Learning and Application for RISE Success
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Join us for an interactive session where you'll discover Mission.io, the ultimate learning adventure that’s free for all rural schools! We’ll guide you through setting up your account, launching your first student mission, and exploring data that shows how schools using Mission.io see RISE scores improve at twice the rate.

This isn’t just another ed-tech tool, it’s a game-changing experience that blends immersive learning with real-world application. Watch as students become engaged problem-solvers, mastering concepts in a way that sticks.

Come ready to explore, set up your school’s free access, and see firsthand how Mission.io is transforming education. Your students are ready for liftoff, are you? 🚀

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, Chromebook
Speakers
BH

Brooks Heder

Founder, Mission.io
Founder of the internationally award winning program Mission.io, Brooks is committed to making cutting-edge educational tools accessible to all, ensuring that every rural school has free access to Mission.io.

Brooks finds joy helping others experience something new and amazing. Something that makes people want to do and be better. Brooks loves making people laugh, smile, and view life with a more positive attitude. In every interaction he hopes to be more then just someone you know, but yo... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
Room #233 1759 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
 
Thursday, July 10
 

9:45am MDT

AI and Privacy: What Every Teacher Needs to Know
Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
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
avatar for John Lyman

John Lyman

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

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 →
JZ

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

9:45am MDT

Amplify Classroom Voices with Adobe Podcast
Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Learn how Adobe Podcast can help you and your students create engaging audio content, making learning more interactive and fun. Master the ins and outs of Adobe Podcast, from recording to editing. It could be perfect for boosting student engagement and adding a fresh dimension to your teaching toolkit. Ready to amplify your classroom experience? Join us and turn up the volume on learning.

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, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Rob Bentley

Rob Bentley

Instructor and Adobe Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Rob taught secondary Spanish and Language Arts for 6 years. For the last 19 years, he's been teaching teachers how to integrate technology effectively into their curriculum. During his time at UEN, he's presented at URSA,  UELMA, UCET, ISTE, FETC, UFLA, SUMS, and the CTE conferences... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #147 1762 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

9:45am MDT

From Past to Press: Teaching News Literacy Strategies through Social Studies Historical Thinking
Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
In this session, classroom and library educators will explore historical thinking skills alongside news literacy strategies, gaining insights into their interconnectedness. As they deepen their understanding, educators will be equipped to help students make meaningful connections between historical analysis and media literacy, seamlessly integrating both into standards-based content curriculum.

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 of the above
Speakers
avatar for Jodi Ide

Jodi Ide

Teacher Specialist, Canyons SD
Jodi Ide has taught high schoolers and educators to question everything—except her music preferences and the Oxford comma. A social studies specialist with a soft spot for media literacy-themed picture books, she’s on a mission to make sure “once upon a time” doesn’t mean... Read More →
avatar for Gretchen Zaitzeff

Gretchen Zaitzeff

District library media specialist, Canyons School District
As co-lead of the Utah Information, News, and Media Literacy Collaborative, Gretchen Zaitzeff brings a strong background in fostering critical media engagement and empowering educators to integrate information, news, and media literacy across the curriculum. She works as the District... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #134 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

9:45am MDT

Introducing K-2 Computer Science using Robotics
Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
In this session we will unpack the Utah Computer Science Standards for grades K-2. Using Sphero INDI robots we will practice hands-on CS aligned activities that will introduce concepts such as algorithms, programming, and computational thinking to your 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, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Nathan Wilson

Nathan Wilson

Technology Integration Specialist, SESC - Southeast Education Service Center
Nathan is a Technology Integration Specialist for the Southeast Education Service Center serving Carbon, Emery, Grand, and San Juan school districts. Nathan has been an educator for 25 years, and has been with SESC for 13 years. He also serves as SESC’s STEM & Robotics manager... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #242 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

11:10am MDT

Bringing Characters to Life Using Adobe Character Animator
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 11:27am MDT
Discover the magic of Adobe Character Animator as you step into the future of storytelling. Learn how to create engaging, animated characters that can lip-sync in real-time with your own voice (or your students' voices), bringing lessons to life in an interactive and fun way. You'll learn how to make characters sync to your face, shoulders, and hands so you can both speak and act in character. Adobe Character Animator is provided free of charge to Utah public school teachers in grades K-12, and to public school students in grades 7-12. Join us and transform the way you connect with your students through the power of animation!

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
avatar for Rob Bentley

Rob Bentley

Instructor and Adobe Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Rob taught secondary Spanish and Language Arts for 6 years. For the last 19 years, he's been teaching teachers how to integrate technology effectively into their curriculum. During his time at UEN, he's presented at URSA,  UELMA, UCET, ISTE, FETC, UFLA, SUMS, and the CTE conferences... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 11:27am MDT
Room #144 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

11:10am MDT

Scrible 101: Free Research and Writing Platform for Newbies
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
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
avatar for Emily Shank

Emily Shank

Exhibitor Partner, 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. Shilpa met Victor Karkar, CEO and co-founder of Scrible, and helped pilot early versions of Scrible in her classes! She is now the Head... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #233 1759 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

11:10am MDT

A Love Affair With Picture Books Across the Standards
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
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
avatar for Teresa Pugmire

Teresa Pugmire

Academic Achievement Coach, Park City School District
PadletLink- https://padlet.com/thegtpugs/ursa-2025-books-across-the-standards-xtqgr9l5s45pe0k2
Teresa serves as an Academic Achievement Coach for Park City School District. In her role, she supports teachers, coaches, and administrators in enhancing literacy and math outcomes for their schools. Additionally, she serves as an adjunct professor at Brigham Young University, wher... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Lecture Hall 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

11:10am MDT

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

NOTE: This session repeats on Friday, July 11 at 9:45 am in Room 134.

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

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

Gretchen Zaitzeff

District library media specialist, Canyons School District
As co-lead of the Utah Information, News, and Media Literacy Collaborative, Gretchen Zaitzeff brings a strong background in fostering critical media engagement and empowering educators to integrate information, news, and media literacy across the curriculum. She works as the District... Read More →
avatar for Davina Sauthoff

Davina Sauthoff

K12 Library Media Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Davina Sauthoff, EdD. is the Library Media Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. She loves reading, 📚 spending time with family 💟 which includes two pups. She is passionate about leveraging the expertise of school  🏫 librarians  and the vital role the school... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #241 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

11:10am MDT

Power Tools: Differentiate For All Your Learners Without Teacher Burn-Out
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
We've all faced it. The dilemma of how to best meet the diverse needs of ALL our students and still provide the same instruction to all. In this session, I will show you ways to easily re-level texts for struggling readers or readers who need to be challenged; quickly produce a text that meets the requirements of a given Core Standard that is age-appropriate for your students; and easily translate any assignment for students who don't speak the language you are teaching in. And, did I mention that it won't take you hours to do?

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

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

Dari Thacker

4th/5th Grade Teacher
South SummitSilver Summit Elementary
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #234 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1:40pm MDT

Elevating ELA Engagement with Adobe Express
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Discover how Adobe Express can transform your K-6 CKLA curriculum and invigorate your students' learning experiences! This session will showcase practical examples of how Adobe Express tools like Character Animator, graphic design templates, video editing, and Guided Activities can be used to create visually appealing and interactive activities that reinforce CKLA concepts and ELA standards. Learn how to bring stories and content to life with digital storybooks, historical figure trading cards, design character analysis posters, , and more. While we'll highlight successful implementations within CKLA, the creative strategies and Adobe Express techniques shared are easily adaptable to any ELA curriculum or subject area, empowering students to express their understanding in dynamic new ways.

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, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for JoLynn Torgerson

JoLynn Torgerson

Technology Integration Specialist, Southeast Education Service Center

Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Room #241 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1:40pm MDT

Scrible 102: Scaffolding Research and Writing in ELA & Social Studies
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
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
avatar for Emily Shank

Emily Shank

Exhibitor Partner, 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. Shilpa met Victor Karkar, CEO and co-founder of Scrible, and helped pilot early versions of Scrible in her classes! She is now the Head... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Room #233 1759 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1:40pm MDT

Unlocking Authentic Expression: How AI Empowers Writers
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Can AI truly help us express ourselves more genuinely? Absolutely! This session explores how educators can leverage the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to help students find and refine their authentic voices. We'll move beyond the hype and delve into practical AI-powered strategies that support every stage of the writing process, fostering creativity, confidence, and a love of writing in students.


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

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: any device
Speakers
avatar for Naomi Watkins

Naomi Watkins

Secondary ELA Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Dr. Naomi Watkins is the Secondary English Language Arts Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education, where she provides strategic oversight for ELA instruction, standards, and adolescent literacy. With over 20 years of experience in education and a Ph.D. specializing in adolescent... Read More →
avatar for Davina Sauthoff

Davina Sauthoff

K12 Library Media Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Davina Sauthoff, EdD. is the Library Media Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. She loves reading, 📚 spending time with family 💟 which includes two pups. She is passionate about leveraging the expertise of school  🏫 librarians  and the vital role the school... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Room #132 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1:40pm MDT

Reel Rights: Curating, Streaming, and Copyright Essentials for Schools
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
In an era where digital media is as ubiquitous as print, schools and their libraries are increasingly tasked with providing access to engaging film collections and content and navigating the complex world of streaming and copyright. This presentation is designed to equip administrators, classroom teachers and school librarians with the knowledge and practical tools necessary to build a film collection and provide access to content that not only captivates and informs your students but also adheres to educational, legal and ethical standards.

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

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

Gretchen Zaitzeff

District library media specialist, Canyons School District
As co-lead of the Utah Information, News, and Media Literacy Collaborative, Gretchen Zaitzeff brings a strong background in fostering critical media engagement and empowering educators to integrate information, news, and media literacy across the curriculum. She works as the District... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Room #134 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1:40pm MDT

Teaching Ethnic Studies in Utah: New Requirements, Trusted Materials
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Are you wondering how to incorporate Utah’s ethnic studies requirements in your classroom? Join us for an enlightening session to explore a range of culturally appropriate resources that connect Utah’s historic and contemporary immigrant communities.

Incorporating ethnic studies materials into your lessons offers valuable opportunities to share the experiences, cultures, and contributions of diverse ethnic groups in Utah. This includes Indigenous peoples, members of the LDS community, African Americans, Latinos, Pacific Islanders, and Asian Americans, both within Utah and beyond. Utilizing the Utah Historical Society’s I Love Utah History website and other educator resources, attendees will learn how to integrate trusted, curated content to explore the rich histories and contemporary communities of Utah's many cultures.

We will also delve into the UEN Ethnic Studies Resource Hubs to discover innovative ways to teach about various cultures, their history, and their contributions to building the United States of America.

This session will equip educators with the resources and background knowledge needed to create a classroom environment that connects the past with the present, honors and reflects the varied experiences of Utahns of diverse ethnicities, and celebrates Utah's vibrant cultural tapestry.

You will receive free, digital materials that will help you integrate culturally informed ethnic studies resources and inquiry-based learning strategies into your teaching practices.


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, Chromebook
Speakers
avatar for Wendy Rex Atzet

Wendy Rex Atzet

Manager of K-12 Initiatives, Utah Historical Society
Wendy Rex Atzet earned her doctorate in U.S. History at the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she also served for four years as a coordinator for the state National History Day program. She was thrilled to return to National History Day in 2013 when she took the helm of this... Read More →
avatar for Etiana Coley Mells

Etiana Coley Mells

Ethnic Studies Education Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Etiana Coley Mells is a sociocultural anthropologist and an educator currently serving as the Ethnic Studies Education Specialist and a federal grant manager focused on incorporating ethnic studies into K-12 classrooms and promoting safe and healthy schools at the Utah State Board... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Room #133 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

1:40pm MDT

Lead From the Classroom to the Community
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 4:10pm MDT
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
avatar for Fangaafa Tuifua

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

3:10pm MDT

Beyond the Page: Elevating Students with Digital Resources
Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Step into the dynamic world of digital literacy and discover how to transform your classroom with two powerful resources: Teaching Books and Sora ebooks. This session will equip K-12 educators with practical strategies to enhance student engagement and deepen comprehension through multimedia content and digital access.
Are you looking for innovative ways to bring books to life? We'll explore Teaching Books, a treasure trove of author interviews, book trailers, lesson plans, and more, designed to spark curiosity and connect students with literature on a deeper level. Learn how to leverage these resources to introduce new units, generate excitement for reading, and support diverse learning needs.
Then, dive into Sora, your school's digital library, and discover the ease and accessibility of ebooks and audiobooks. We'll demonstrate how to navigate this user-friendly platform, assign digital materials, and track student progress. Learn how to provide equitable access to a vast collection of titles, support struggling readers with built-in accessibility features, and encourage independent reading.
Join us to discover how to seamlessly integrate Teaching Books and Sora into your curriculum, creating a comprehensive digital literacy experience that goes "Beyond the Page" and empowers your students to become lifelong readers and learners.
Link to slides used

NOTE: This session repeats on Wednesday, July 9 at 1:30 pm in Room 235.

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

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

Chris Haught

Media Specialist, SEDC - Southwest Educational Development Center
Chris Haught is the Technology/Media Mentor at Southwest Educational Service Center (SEDC), a regional Service Center that serves six district and seven charter ELA’s.Chris works closely with the region’s librarians providing support and training
Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Room #242 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

3:10pm MDT

Movement Integration for K-6 classes
Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Let’s get up and move the curriculum! In this one-hour presentation, you will receive 10 NEW 10-minute movement lessons to move with students. We will explore Math, Science, Language Arts, and Social Studies. To see what this looks like with students follow this LINK: https://youtu.be/5SPi2VXYKok

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

Ashley Boyack

Professional Development Director, University of Utah Tanner Dance
ASHLEY BOYACK received her BFA from the University of Utah and MAT from the University of Northern Colorado. She joined the Lawrence Arts Center in 2010, where she was Artistic Director of the Youth Dance Theater. While at LAC she created the modern dance curriculum and served as... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 3:10pm - 4:10pm MDT
Room #234 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
 
Friday, July 11
 

9:45am MDT

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

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

Emily Perkins

5th Grade Teacher
Emily Perkins is the 5th grade teacher at Cedar Valley Elementary in Cedar Fort, Utah. She has been the 5th grade teacher for the last 14 years. Emily enjoys creating high-quality, engaging cross-curricular learning experiences for her students. Emily is on the district science team... Read More →
avatar for Michelle Kantaris

Michelle Kantaris

6th grade teacher, Cedar Valley Elementary
Michelle is a 6th grade teacher at Cedar Valley Elementary in Cedar Fort, Utah. She has prior experience in grades K-8. Michelle has a passion for reaching students through engaging cross-curricular activities. Michelle is on the district science team and has been involved in co-teaching... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #235 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

9:45am MDT

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

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

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

Kayla Towner

Senior Product Trainer, UEN - Utah Education Network
Kayla Towner is a Senior Product Trainer at the Utah Education Network (UEN) and, first and foremost, a passionate educator. She loves spending time with her family—playing soccer ⚽️, reading books 📚, hiking 🥾, and adventuring across Utah 🏔️. Kayla is dedicated to... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #142 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

9:45am MDT

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

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

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

Lisa Perry

Educator/Tech Coach, Terra Academy
I am a passionate 5th-grade educator with 13 years of teaching experience, All of those in rural Utah. I strongly advocate for literacy, math, and technology, using hands-on projects, Thinking Classroom strategies, and digital tools like Adobe Express to engage my students and build... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #234 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

9:45am MDT

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

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

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

John Lyman

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

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 →
JZ

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

9:45am MDT

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

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

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

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

Gretchen Zaitzeff

District library media specialist, Canyons School District
As co-lead of the Utah Information, News, and Media Literacy Collaborative, Gretchen Zaitzeff brings a strong background in fostering critical media engagement and empowering educators to integrate information, news, and media literacy across the curriculum. She works as the District... Read More →
avatar for Davina Sauthoff

Davina Sauthoff

K12 Library Media Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Davina Sauthoff, EdD. is the Library Media Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education. She loves reading, 📚 spending time with family 💟 which includes two pups. She is passionate about leveraging the expertise of school  🏫 librarians  and the vital role the school... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #134 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

9:45am MDT

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

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

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

Liz Brown

BTS Arts Integration Coach, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Liz Brown is a BTS Art Integration Coach for NUES. She was the 2025 Utah Art Educator of the Year for the National Art Education Association and the 2024 Art Educator of the Year for the Utah Art Education Association. She is passionate about arts integration and children getting... Read More →
AH

Amy Hickenlooper

BTS Music Specialist, Early Light Academy
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #132 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

11:00am MDT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lora Gibbons

Senior Technical Trainer
Utah Education Network
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #232 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

11:00am MDT

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

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

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

Sheryl Vernon

School Psychologist, CUES - Central Utah Educational Services
Sheryl Vernon is a School Psychologist Ed.S. at CUES, where she covers diagnostic testing and Trust Based Relationship Intervention for the region. She received her degree from Brigham Young University.
Before working at CUES, Sheryl ran the Crayon Academy Preschool from her home for 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 →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #145 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

11:00am MDT

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

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

Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Howcroft

Elizabeth Howcroft

Board Certified Behavior Analyst, LBA, licensed Special Education Teacher, Northeastern Educational Services
Liz was born and raised in rural Utah where she has worked with students and families of students with high educational and behavior needs for the past 20 years. Liz has worked in education, foster care, early intervention, and the clinic setting both in home and in clinic.
Liz... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #237 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

11:00am MDT

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

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

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

Chris Haught

Media Specialist, SEDC - Southwest Educational Development Center
Chris Haught is the Technology/Media Mentor at Southwest Educational Service Center (SEDC), a regional Service Center that serves six district and seven charter ELA’s.Chris works closely with the region’s librarians providing support and training
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #235 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
 
Wednesday, July 15
 

1:30pm MDT

Craft Your Digital Teaching Assistant: Building Custom AI Assistants with Google Gemini Gems
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Come discover how to move beyond basic prompting and start building your own specialized AI team. Using Google Gemini Gems, you will learn how to "program" custom AI assistants tailored to your specific classroom or administrative needs—no coding required. You'll also learn about an existing library of pre-made Gemini Gems you can easily copy and start using right away! Make sure to bring your own laptop or Chromebook to this session and leave with a personalized digital assistant ready to tackle your unique tasks.

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

Speakers
avatar for Rob Bentley

Rob Bentley

Instructor and Adobe Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Rob taught secondary Spanish and Language Arts for 6 years. For the last 19 years, he's been teaching teachers how to integrate technology effectively into their curriculum. During his time at UEN, he's presented at URSA,  UELMA, UCET, ISTE, FETC, UFLA, SUMS, and the CTE conferences... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

1:30pm MDT

Sing It. Draw It. Learn It!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

Discover engaging, practical strategies for integrating visual art and music into the elementary classroom to deepen student learning and creativity. This interactive session will explore hands-on activities, cross-curricular connections, and standards-aligned lessons that blend sound, color, movement, and expression. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas that foster collaboration, critical thinking, and joyful learning while supporting academic content across subjects. Perfect for K–5 educators looking to bring meaningful arts integration into their teaching practice.

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

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

Liz Brown

BTS Arts Integration Coach, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Liz Brown is a BTS Art Integration Coach for NUES. She was the 2025 Utah Art Educator of the Year for the National Art Education Association and the 2024 Art Educator of the Year for the Utah Art Education Association. She is passionate about arts integration and children getting... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
 
Thursday, July 16
 

9:45am MDT

Canva Reimagined: Unlock the Magic
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Move beyond static slides and embrace active learning! Join us for an immersive look into Canva’s Magic Studio. We’ll show you how to use Magic Media and Magic Design to transform K-12 lessons into personalized, interactive experiences. Plus, discover "next level" tools like Magic Activities, Canva Sheets, and Code for me—empowering students to build apps and games without writing code. Turn students into creators and unlock a world of magic that makes school future-ready.

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

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

Kayla Towner

Senior Product Trainer, UEN - Utah Education Network
Kayla Towner is a Senior Product Trainer at the Utah Education Network (UEN) and, first and foremost, a passionate educator. She loves spending time with her family—playing soccer ⚽️, reading books 📚, hiking 🥾, and adventuring across Utah 🏔️. Kayla is dedicated to... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
ED 102 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 102 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

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

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

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

Wendy Rex Atzet

Manager of K-12 Initiatives, Utah Historical Society
Wendy Rex Atzet earned her doctorate in U.S. History at the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she also served for four years as a coordinator for the state National History Day program. She was thrilled to return to National History Day in 2013 when she took the helm of this... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
CC Sage Valley - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Sage Valley Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:45am MDT

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

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

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

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:45am - 12:10pm MDT
GC 201 - General Classroom Building, Room 201 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

10:27am MDT

Partnership Power! Bringing Poetry to Life with Statewide Competitions from the Division of Arts & Museums
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:27am - 10:45am MDT
🕒 Format Alert: This is a fast-paced, 20-minute showcase that is grouped together with two other quick sessions in this time block.

The Utah Division of Arts & Museums administers two different statewide competitions for 9-12 grade students designed to bring poetry to life for young learners while advancing literacy, confidence and public speaking skills.

Poetry Out Loud is a nationwide contest that starts at the local level with individual classrooms and schools. Lesson plans and other teacher resources are available to help teachers integrate the contest into their curriculum. Participating schools can request free on-site workshops with the state poet laureate. Students select from a collection of great works of poetry to memorize and recite, and local contest winners move on to the regional and then the state level, where cash prizes are awarded, and one Utah student will get a free trip to Washington D.C. for the national finals to compete for the $20,000 grand prize.

We also hold a statewide poetry writing competition called Poetry Ourselves. Students are encouraged to enter their own original works in both English and Spanish. Free workshops on bilingual poetry are available from our agency to encourage engagement from language learners in your school. Winners receive cash awards and a trip to Salt Lake to read their work at the state finals event in March.

We are committed to expanding this program to every corner of the state. Join us to learn how you can participate in the coming year.

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
Thursday July 16, 2026 10:27am - 10:45am MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Scam Academy - Teaching Students to Outsmart the Algorithms
This session moves beyond basic digital safety checklists to teach students the crucial skill of healthy skepticism. We will introduce \"Scam Academy\" resources, which implement Civic Online Reasoning’s Three Questions. These questions help move students from being vulnerable to online manipulation to being digital detectives. Resources available for all grade levels (K-12). Let’s teach students to be smarter than the bots, influencers, and algorithms that exist to trick them!

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

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

Dani Sloan

IT Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Dr. Dani Sloan helps educators lead, research, and teach digital citizenship. She's a UEN Product Manager and Instructor at the University of Utah. She is a former Elementary Teacher and current mom to a seventh grader. Dani is passionate about preparing students for a digital world... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

1:30pm MDT

Art Tools and Teacher Tricks
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

Looking to bring more creativity into your classroom without the mess or stress? In this hands-on workshop, elementary classroom teachers will learn practical tips and tricks for confidently using and managing basic art supplies. From watercolors to oil pastels colored pencils and more, we’ll explore what’s worth buying, what to skip, and how to get the most out of the supplies you already have. How can you use and manage these supplies more effectively?Participants will learn art hacks for the classroom that will minimize chaos and maximize instructional time. We’ll also cover easy-to-teach techniques that help students use supplies correctly and responsibly, saving money and reducing waste. Whether you’re art-loving or art-avoidant, you’ll leave with ready-to-use strategies that make creative activities smoother, more efficient, more successful and more engaging.Perfect for any teachers who want big creative impact with basic supplies!

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

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

Liz Brown

BTS Arts Integration Coach, NUES - Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Liz Brown is a BTS Art Integration Coach for NUES. She was the 2025 Utah Art Educator of the Year for the National Art Education Association and the 2024 Art Educator of the Year for the Utah Art Education Association. She is passionate about arts integration and children getting... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:30pm - 3:50pm MDT
GC 306 - General Classroom Building, Room 306 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

2:50pm MDT

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

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

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

Rob Bentley

Instructor and Adobe Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Rob taught secondary Spanish and Language Arts for 6 years. For the last 19 years, he's been teaching teachers how to integrate technology effectively into their curriculum. During his time at UEN, he's presented at URSA,  UELMA, UCET, ISTE, FETC, UFLA, SUMS, and the CTE conferences... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:50pm - 3:50pm MDT
ED 215 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 215 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
 
Friday, July 17
 

9:50am MDT

AI Tools for Digital Storytelling: Google Vids and Adobe Podcast
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
Unlock the potential of AI to transform how your students create, narrate, and publish their ideas. This session focuses on two powerful tools: Google Vids, which streamlines video creation, and Adobe Podcast for professional-grade audio and video enhancements and editing. You'll learn how these tools can rapidly accelerate the process of turning a simple idea into a fully-produced piece of digital media.

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

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

Rob Bentley

Instructor and Adobe Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Rob taught secondary Spanish and Language Arts for 6 years. For the last 19 years, he's been teaching teachers how to integrate technology effectively into their curriculum. During his time at UEN, he's presented at URSA,  UELMA, UCET, ISTE, FETC, UFLA, SUMS, and the CTE conferences... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:50am MDT

Courtside Culture - Lessons in Leadership from Basketball's Greatest Minds
Think there isn't anything that translates from the hardwood to the hallways? Think again. This session breaks down the leadership strategies used by basketball's greatest minds and applies them to the educational setting. You will leave with a concrete set of principles to foster safety & purpose, and transform even the most challenging classes or faculties into a cohesive, championship-level team.

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

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

Dani Sloan

IT Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Dr. Dani Sloan helps educators lead, research, and teach digital citizenship. She's a UEN Product Manager and Instructor at the University of Utah. She is a former Elementary Teacher and current mom to a seventh grader. Dani is passionate about preparing students for a digital world... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 10:50am MDT
CC Shooting Star - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Shooting Star Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

9:50am MDT

Grow Lab
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 12:10pm MDT
🧠 Format Alert: This is an immersive, 2-hour deep-dive workshop designed for intensive, uninterrupted coverage of this topic.

With lessons that support SEEd standard 3.2.1, Grow Lab evolved from an award-winning classroom program Red Butte offered for over two decades. In addition to engaging with the curriculum, this workshop provides you with your own grow frame and supplies to grow plants in your classroom at no cost to you. The seeds you receive are Wisconsin Fast Plants® (Brassica rapa); these plants complete their life cycle, from planting seeds to harvesting the seeds, in 40 days. This allows you and your 3rd graders to develop and refine models of changes that happen throughout the life cycle of Fast Plants® in real time. 

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

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

Heather Paulsen

Teacher Resource Coordinator, Red Butte Garden & Arboretum
Heather has over 20 years of experience in both formal and informal education K-12. Most of that has been spent in informal science education working with statewide programs that include outreach, teacher resources, professional development and writing curriculum to support state... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 9:50am - 12:10pm MDT
BC 208 - Braithwaite Liberal Arts Center, Room 208 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Navigating the Noise: Empowering News-Literate Students with Checkology
In a digital landscape filled with "fake news," deepfakes, and algorithmic bias, how do we teach students to verify instead of just vilify? Enter Checkology, a powerful, browser-based platform that brings real-world journalists into the classroom to teach the core skills of news literacy.This session will guide educators through the platform’s interactive modules, which challenge students to distinguish between news, opinion, and propaganda. We will explore how to use the "Check Center" to verify viral claims and how to integrate these lessons into ELA, Social Studies, and Library Media curricula. Participants will leave with a ready-to-implement strategy for building a more skeptical, informed, and civically engaged student body.

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

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

Chris Haught

Media Specialist, SEDC - Southwest Educational Development Center
Chris Haught is the Technology/Media Mentor at Southwest Educational Service Center (SEDC), a regional Service Center that serves six district and seven charter ELA’s.Chris works closely with the region’s librarians providing support and training
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Charles Hunter - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Charles Hunter Room (100 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Bringing Characters to Life Using Adobe Character Animator
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Discover the magic of Adobe Character Animator as you step into the future of storytelling. Learn how to create engaging, animated characters that can lip-sync in real-time with your own voice (or your students' voices), bringing lessons to life in an interactive and fun way. You'll learn how to make characters sync to your face, shoulders, and hands so you can both speak and act in character. Adobe Character Animator is provided free of charge to Utah public school teachers in grades K-12, and to public school students in grades 7-12. Join us and transform the way you connect with your students through the power of animation!

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

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: Mac Laptop; Windows Laptop
Speakers
avatar for Rob Bentley

Rob Bentley

Instructor and Adobe Product Manager, UEN - Utah Education Network
Rob taught secondary Spanish and Language Arts for 6 years. For the last 19 years, he's been teaching teachers how to integrate technology effectively into their curriculum. During his time at UEN, he's presented at URSA,  UELMA, UCET, ISTE, FETC, UFLA, SUMS, and the CTE conferences... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
ED 202 - Emma Eccles Jones Education Building, Room 202 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Unplug and Play: Teaching Computational Thinking Skills Through Game Play
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Learn how to use board games, card games, and pony beads to teach Computational Thinking skills and add some (more) fun back into your classroom. During this session, you will learn how to use games to teach and reinforce Computational Thinking skills. Worried you don't teach Computational Thinking? You do! Computational Thinking (CT) is taught and used in almost every subject. By the end of this session, you will know what CT is, how to use it, and you will have got to play a game or two. So, win-win all around.

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

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

Kelli Cannon

Digital Learning Specialist, Jordan School District
Kelli Cannon has been an educator for 12 years, teaching upper elementary students prior to her current role as a Digital Learning Specialist. Kelli holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology, as well as endorsements in STEM, Teaching English as a Second Language and Instructional... Read More →
avatar for Traci Rindlisbach

Traci Rindlisbach

Elementary Computer Science Specialist, Jordan School District-Digital Teaching and Learning
Traci Rindlisbach is the Elementary Computer Science and Digital Specialist in Jordan School District. She has been an educator for 17 years. She has helped create and implement Computer Science rotations into Jordan District elementary schools: K-6. Traci loves talking about and... Read More →
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
SC 129 - Science Center, Room 129 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720

11:10am MDT

Beyond the Read Aloud: Bringing Stories to Life
What if stories did more than get read aloud? What if they moved, sang, and invited every learner into the experience? In this hands-on session led by an elementary school librarian, participants will experience how picture books, music, movement, puppetry, and visual storytelling can be used to help K-5 students explore big ideas such as identity, diversity, courage, and belonging. Educators will step into the role of students as they participate in immersive storytelling experiences designed to build empathy, deepen thinking, and amplify student voices. This workshop begins with action and teaches through experience. Participants will leave with practical strategies that help classrooms and libraries become places where stories spark joy, deepen understanding, and bring students together through shared experiences.

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

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: None
Speakers
Friday July 17, 2026 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
CC Whiting Room - R. Haze Hunter Alumni Center, Whiting Room Room (200 Level) 351 W. University Blvd., Cedar City, UT 84720
 
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