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Full URSA 2025 Session Schedule will be published here NO LATER than June 1. Please check back soon!
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, UEN - Utah Education Network
Lora Gibbons is a UEN trainer dedicated to helping educators create exciting learning experiences for their students. Lora earned a master's degree in Instructional Design and Educational Technology from the University of Utah and a bachelor's degree in Biology Composite Teaching... Read More →
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.

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, Southwest Educational Development Center
Chris Haught is the Technology/Media Mentor at Southwest Educational Service Center (SEDC), a regional Service Center that serves six district and seven charter ELA’s.Chris works closely with the region’s librarians providing support and training on Utah’s Online Library, the... Read More →
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 UEN's Adobe Product Manager, Utah Education Network
Rob Bentley specializes in multimedia projects and resources for the classroom. He focuses on how teachers can effectively use video, images, and other media to teach their students, and also how to get students creating exciting media of their own such as educational computer games... Read More →
Wednesday July 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room #231 1750 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 is a full-time classroom teacher who was adopted from foster care. While working with her own kids, she discovered TBRI and has spent the last 5 years learning how to adapt it to her classroom. She is passionate about helping kids with very difficult behaviors. In her spare time... 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... 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 the Lecture Hall.

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

John Lyman

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

Nicole Sanchez

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

Jeremy Zabriskie

Data Privacy and Security Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Jeremy comes to the data privacy team from his previous role as IT Manager at a K6 charter school. While there, he served as the Data Manager and Information Security Officer, in addition to teaching computer science classes. Jeremy’s fervor for cybersecurity is proven by his multiple... Read More →
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 UEN's Adobe Product Manager, Utah Education Network
Rob Bentley specializes in multimedia projects and resources for the classroom. He focuses on how teachers can effectively use video, images, and other media to teach their students, and also how to get students creating exciting media of their own such as educational computer games... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #147 1750 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 School District
Jodi Ide is a Teacher Specialist for Canyons School District in Sandy, Utah, where she provides support to high school social studies teachers, instructional coaches, teachers and students in key areas such as digital citizenship, media literacy, news literacy, and debate. With 23... Read More →
avatar for Gretchen Zaitzeff

Gretchen Zaitzeff

District Library Media Specialist, Canyons School District
Gretchen Zaitzeff is the District Library Media Specialist for Canyons School District in Sandy, Utah, and the Past-President of the Utah School Library Association (USLA). She is deeply committed to professional learning, instructional leadership, and literacy, actively supporting... Read More →
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 UEN's Adobe Product Manager, Utah Education Network
Rob Bentley specializes in multimedia projects and resources for the classroom. He focuses on how teachers can effectively use video, images, and other media to teach their students, and also how to get students creating exciting media of their own such as educational computer games... 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 Shilpa Duvoor

Shilpa Duvoor

Head of Customer Success, Scrible
Shilpa has over 20 years of experience in education as a teacher, school leader, leadership coach, and a customer success leader in edtech startups. She has worked with innovative ed tech companies and districts all over the United States. She is the Head of Customer Success at Scrible... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #233 1759 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

PreK-12 Learning Coach, Northeastern Utah Educational Services
Teresa serves as a Learning Coach for rural schools in northeastern Utah. In her role, she supports teachers, coaches, and administrators in enhancing literacy and math outcomes for their schools. Additionally, she is an adjunct professor at Brigham Young University, where she teaches... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 11:10am - 12:10pm MDT
Room #143 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Davina Sauthoff

K12 Library Media Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Davina Sauthoff, EdD., is the Library Media Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education, where she champions the expertise of school 🏫 librarians and their vital role in enriching the learning experiences of Utah 🌄 students. A recognized leader in the field, Davina frequently... Read More →
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, Silver Summit Elementary
I have been teaching in a blended grade setting for the last 8 years. I integrate domains together. For example, Writing and ELA are both aligned with Utah's History Core Standards. Since there isn't an ELA/Writing curriculum out there that does this, I have created my own. In order... Read More →
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 Innovation Specialist, SESC - Southeast Service Center
JoLynn has been involved in public education for 18 years, with experience as a classroom teacher, site technology resource, behavior management paraprofessional, Title One paraprofessional, and coach. Her current role is a Technology Integration Specialist with SESC- Southeast Education... Read More →
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 Shilpa Duvoor

Shilpa Duvoor

Head of Customer Success, Scrible
Shilpa has over 20 years of experience in education as a teacher, school leader, leadership coach, and a customer success leader in edtech startups. She has worked with innovative ed tech companies and districts all over the United States. She is the Head of Customer Success at Scrible... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 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

Language Arts Secondary Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Naomi Watkins is the Secondary English Language Arts Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. Previously, she was a middle school ELA teacher, instructional coach, and university professor. She earned a PhD from the University of Utah.
avatar for Davina Sauthoff

Davina Sauthoff

K12 Library Media Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Davina Sauthoff, EdD., is the Library Media Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education, where she champions the expertise of school 🏫 librarians and their vital role in enriching the learning experiences of Utah 🌄 students. A recognized leader in the field, Davina frequently... Read More →
Thursday July 10, 2025 1:40pm - 2:40pm MDT
Lecture Hall 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
Gretchen Zaitzeff is the District Library Media Specialist for Canyons School District in Sandy, Utah, and the Past-President of the Utah School Library Association (USLA). She is deeply committed to professional learning, instructional leadership, and literacy, actively supporting... Read More →
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

Director, K-12 Initiatives, Utah Historical Society
Wendy Rex Atzet, Ph.D., is a public historian at the Utah Historical Society, where she manages K-12 programs such as National History Day® and I Love Utah History. She develops teacher and classroom-oriented resources for teaching Utah history, ethnic studies, and historical thinking... Read More →
EC

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
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
Commons 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.

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

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

Michelle Kantaris

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

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

Product Manager and Senior Technical Specialist, UEN - Utah Education Network
Kayla Towner, a tech enthusiast, is the Product Manager & Technology Specialist at the Utah Education Network (UEN). She loves spending time with her family - playing soccer ⚽️, listening to audiobooks 📚, hiking 🥾, & adventuring around Utah 🏔️. She’s passionate about... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #142 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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 →
NS

Nicole Sanchez

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

Jeremy Zabriskie

Data Privacy and Security Specialist, USBE - Utah State Board of Education
Jeremy comes to the data privacy team from his previous role as IT Manager at a K6 charter school. While there, he served as the Data Manager and Information Security Officer, in addition to teaching computer science classes. Jeremy’s fervor for cybersecurity is proven by his multiple... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Lecture Hall 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

Davina Sauthoff

K12 Library Media Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Davina Sauthoff, EdD., is the Library Media Specialist for the Utah State Board of Education, where she champions the expertise of school 🏫 librarians and their vital role in enriching the learning experiences of Utah 🌄 students. A recognized leader in the field, Davina frequently... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Room #134 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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 Elizabeth Brown

Elizabeth Brown

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

Amy Hickenlooper

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

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, UEN - Utah Education Network
Lora Gibbons is a UEN trainer dedicated to helping educators create exciting learning experiences for their students. Lora earned a master's degree in Instructional Design and Educational Technology from the University of Utah and a bachelor's degree in Biology Composite Teaching... Read More →
Friday July 11, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Room #232 1750 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060

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

11:00am MDT

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

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

Participants MAY FIND IT USEFUL to have one or more of the following platforms/devices during this session: No
Speakers
avatar for Becca Wilhite

Becca Wilhite

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

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.

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

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

Chris Haught

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