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Join us this fall to learn research-based, equity-centered strategies to increase well-being, enhance belonging, and deepen engagement for students in your community. Don’t miss this professional development conference for K-12 educators and school partner teams. You will connect with fellow educators, experts, and thought leaders who are transforming the student experience in K-12 schools across the country, deepen your professional learning, and leave inspired and empowered with concrete strategies for your K-12 school community.

Workshops marked with a ⭐ are student-friendly.
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Friday, September 27
 

1:00pm EDT

Registration
Friday September 27, 2024 1:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
LaCava EDR
Friday September 27, 2024 1:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
LaCava EDR
  Snack

1:30pm EDT

Conference Kick-Off
Friday September 27, 2024 1:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
LaCava EDR
Presenters
avatar for Denise Pope

Denise Pope

Co-Founder & Strategic Advisor, Challenge Success
Denise Pope, Ph.D., is a Senior Lecturer at the Stanford University Graduate School of Education. She is the author of, “Doing School”: How We Are Creating a Generation of Stressed Out, Materialistic, and Miseducated Students (Yale University Press, 2001), which was awarded Notable... Read More →
avatar for Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell

Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell

Director of Programs, Challenge Success
Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell, M.Ed., A proud first-generation Taiwanese American, mother, educator, and creative, Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell has served over thirteen years in the education ecosystem. As a current Director of Programs at Challenge Success and Educational Leadership Advisor at... Read More →
Friday September 27, 2024 1:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
LaCava EDR

2:15pm EDT

Catalyst for Change - Orientation for Challenge Success School Partnership Teams (For School Teams/Groups Only)
Friday September 27, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
LaCava EDR
In this session designed for CS teams, connect with your team members, begin strategizing for the work ahead, and explore pathways to support student well-being, engagement and belonging for the upcoming school year.
Presenters
avatar for Margaret Dunlap

Margaret Dunlap

Senior School Design Partner, Transformative Coaching & Leadership, Challenge Success
Margaret Dunlap, M.A., is the Senior School Design Partner for Challenge Success. With a background spanning over 35 years, she has held multifaceted roles in education leadership, coaching, and program management. She supports schools in transformative reform endeavors, championing... Read More →
avatar for Jon Kleiman

Jon Kleiman

School & District Partnership Manager, Challenge Success
Jon Kleiman, M.A., is a School and District Partnership Manager. He oversees the operation of the school program, providing coordination, resources, and management to Challenge Success schools on the East Coast. Jon has worked in the education space in several capacities, from creating... Read More →
avatar for Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell

Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell

Director of Programs, Challenge Success
Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell, M.Ed., A proud first-generation Taiwanese American, mother, educator, and creative, Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell has served over thirteen years in the education ecosystem. As a current Director of Programs at Challenge Success and Educational Leadership Advisor at... Read More →
Friday September 27, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
LaCava EDR

2:15pm EDT

Student Pulse Check: Strategies for Well-Being, Engagement and Belonging
Friday September 27, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Jennison 308
How are your students doing these days? In this session, we will highlight recent Challenge Success survey data about student well-being, engagement, and belonging, and we will model tools for data-driven decisionmaking to solve common student challenges. Join us to learn how to do “pulse checks” at your own school and to consider school and classroom changes that will help students thrive.
Presenters
avatar for Denise Pope

Denise Pope

Co-Founder & Strategic Advisor, Challenge Success
Denise Pope, Ph.D., is a Senior Lecturer at the Stanford University Graduate School of Education. She is the author of, “Doing School”: How We Are Creating a Generation of Stressed Out, Materialistic, and Miseducated Students (Yale University Press, 2001), which was awarded Notable... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Miles

Sarah Miles

Director of Research, Challenge Success
Sarah Miles, M.S.W., Ph.D., is the Director of Research for Challenge Success. She oversees the organization’s Research team, leads research efforts on how schools and classrooms can best support student learning and engagement, and partners with Challenge Success member schools... Read More →
Friday September 27, 2024 2:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Jennison 308

4:00pm EDT

Administrators Connect: Building a Foundation for Educational Transformation
Friday September 27, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Jennison 308
In this session, you’ll connect with fellow administrators, explore how to sustainably guide school change efforts, and discuss ways to navigate common roadblocks that might emerge.
Presenters
avatar for Denise Pope

Denise Pope

Co-Founder & Strategic Advisor, Challenge Success
Denise Pope, Ph.D., is a Senior Lecturer at the Stanford University Graduate School of Education. She is the author of, “Doing School”: How We Are Creating a Generation of Stressed Out, Materialistic, and Miseducated Students (Yale University Press, 2001), which was awarded Notable... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Miles

Sarah Miles

Director of Research, Challenge Success
Sarah Miles, M.S.W., Ph.D., is the Director of Research for Challenge Success. She oversees the organization’s Research team, leads research efforts on how schools and classrooms can best support student learning and engagement, and partners with Challenge Success member schools... Read More →
Friday September 27, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Jennison 308

4:00pm EDT

Educators/Counselors Connect: Inspiring School Change
Friday September 27, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
LaCava EDR
In this session, you’ll meet and hear from fellow educators, explore ways to leverage classroom wisdom to inspire positive school change, and address strategies for effectively navigating and overcoming common roadblocks that might emerge.
Presenters
avatar for Jon Kleiman

Jon Kleiman

School & District Partnership Manager, Challenge Success
Jon Kleiman, M.A., is a School and District Partnership Manager. He oversees the operation of the school program, providing coordination, resources, and management to Challenge Success schools on the East Coast. Jon has worked in the education space in several capacities, from creating... Read More →
Friday September 27, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
LaCava EDR

4:00pm EDT

Parents/Caregivers Connect: Fostering Community Engagement
Friday September 27, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Jennison 307
In this session, you’ll connect with fellow parents/caregivers who have taken leadership roles on their school teams and discuss ways to navigate common roadblocks that might emerge. We will also explore how to engage parents/caregivers in your school community through various methods including teacher-parent forums and innovative approaches to book clubs and topic discussions.
Presenters
avatar for Margaret Dunlap

Margaret Dunlap

Senior School Design Partner, Transformative Coaching & Leadership, Challenge Success
Margaret Dunlap, M.A., is the Senior School Design Partner for Challenge Success. With a background spanning over 35 years, she has held multifaceted roles in education leadership, coaching, and program management. She supports schools in transformative reform endeavors, championing... Read More →
Friday September 27, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Jennison 307

4:00pm EDT

Students Connect: Elevating Youth Voices for Change ⭐
Friday September 27, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Jennison 312
At Challenge Success, we believe student voice is an essential component to improving the school experience. In this student-only session, learn how to leverage your voice to advocate for change in your school community. Engage with other students to gain practical strategies to improve student outcomes in well-being, belonging, and engagement.
Presenters
avatar for Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell

Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell

Director of Programs, Challenge Success
Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell, M.Ed., A proud first-generation Taiwanese American, mother, educator, and creative, Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell has served over thirteen years in the education ecosystem. As a current Director of Programs at Challenge Success and Educational Leadership Advisor at... Read More →
avatar for ChèRee Wiley

ChèRee Wiley

School Partnership Coach, Challenge Success
Friday September 27, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Jennison 312

5:15pm EDT

Dinner
Friday September 27, 2024 5:15pm - 6:15pm EDT
LaCava EDR
Friday September 27, 2024 5:15pm - 6:15pm EDT
LaCava EDR
  Meal

6:15pm EDT

Evening Program: Conversations that Matter - Dialogue Night in Action
Friday September 27, 2024 6:15pm - 7:15pm EDT
LaCava EDR
At Challenge Success, we have developed a powerful communication protocol that allows parents/caregivers and educators to dialogue with students. Join us to witness a sample Dialogue Night in action, featuring powerful adult-student conversations and effective ways to engage in productive discussions in your community.
Presenters
avatar for Denise Pope

Denise Pope

Co-Founder & Strategic Advisor, Challenge Success
Denise Pope, Ph.D., is a Senior Lecturer at the Stanford University Graduate School of Education. She is the author of, “Doing School”: How We Are Creating a Generation of Stressed Out, Materialistic, and Miseducated Students (Yale University Press, 2001), which was awarded Notable... Read More →
Friday September 27, 2024 6:15pm - 7:15pm EDT
LaCava EDR
 
Saturday, September 28
 

8:30am EDT

Breakfast, Welcome Day 2
Saturday September 28, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Saturday September 28, 2024 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
  Meal

9:45am EDT

Cultivating Mental Resilience with Mindfulness and More ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 316
In trying times, how can individuals and schools not just survive but thrive in the face of challenges? Join author, international speaker, and Harvard psychologist Dr. Chris Willard as we uncover the foundations of resilience and performance. Drawing from mindfulness, positive psychology, anthropology, neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and more, we will explore tools that have bolstered human resilience for generations. This session will provide numerous time-efficient, research-based takeaway tips for both personal and school-wide growth, transforming challenges into creative opportunities.
Presenters
avatar for Christopher Willard, PsyD

Christopher Willard, PsyD

Teaching Associate in Psychiatry, Harvard Medical Center
Dr. Christopher Willard, (Psy. D.) is a clinical psychologist, author and consultant based in Massachusetts. He has spoken in over thirty five countries, and has presented at two TEDx events. He is the author of twenty books, including Alphabreaths, Growing Up Mindful, and Mental... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 316

9:45am EDT

Design for Deeper Learning with the AI-Kaleidoscope ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 307
High Tech High Graduate School of Education’s Kaleidoscope framework supports educators in designing transformative learning experiences. However, designing for and with learners takes time and creative energy. This workshop introduces collaborative protocols for community-oriented projects and strategies for using the AI-companion to High Tech High’s Kaleidoscope Framework as a resource for lifting some of the cognitive weight of design.
Presenters
avatar for Aatash Parikh

Aatash Parikh

Founder, Inkwire
Aatash Parikh is an educator, an engineer, and the founder of Inkwire, a platform that aims to make transformational learning experiences accessible to students and teachers everywhere. Aatash has worked as a software engineer at companies like Google & Khan Academy and as a middle... Read More →
avatar for Kali Frederick

Kali Frederick

Professional Learning Designer, High Tech High Graduate School of Education
Creatively non-compliant and embracer of wild ideas. I am a Professional Learning Designer with the High Tech High Graduate School of Education. With 15 years teaching experience in both a comprehensive NYC public school and PBL classrooms at High Tech High and inspired by bell hooks... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 307

9:45am EDT

Faculty & Staff Well-Being: Strategies for a Healthy School Community
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 314
You can’t have a healthy school community without centering adult well-being. In this workshop, we draw from current research and data from our Faculty & Staff Survey to identify significant adult stressors and insights for potential school changes. Join Denise to reflect on your own well-being and explore ways your school can reduce stress and foster a healthier school climate
Presenters
avatar for Denise Pope

Denise Pope

Co-Founder & Strategic Advisor, Challenge Success
Denise Pope, Ph.D., is a Senior Lecturer at the Stanford University Graduate School of Education. She is the author of, “Doing School”: How We Are Creating a Generation of Stressed Out, Materialistic, and Miseducated Students (Yale University Press, 2001), which was awarded Notable... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 314

9:45am EDT

Figuring Out vs. Finding Out: Building Intellectual Endurance for High School Students ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 312
How can educators cultivate intellectual endurance in and out of the classroom? This workshop provides a space for educators to identify and diagnose the challenges learners face when engaging in intellectual work collaboratively. We will explore a framework and strategies that foster deeper engagement with both content and peers. Participants will conduct a self-audit and leave with new methods to frame existing learning experiences, centering on learners and engagement rather than solely on assessment and achievement.
Presenters
avatar for Tom Marshall

Tom Marshall

Social Studies Dept. Chair, Dawson School Lafayette, Colorado
Social Studies Department & Faculty. I support teachers to develop learner-centered experiences and connect with their "why" of education. In the classroom, I have eighteen years of experience as a secondary humanities educator in both public and independent schools. My primary academic... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 312

9:45am EDT

Pedagogy that Engages: Tools to Increase Motivation, Joy, and Deeper Learning
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 315
We know that students learn better and retain more information when they are genuinely engaged in classroom lessons. This workshop will examine the recent research behind student engagement and explore ways to rethink your curricula to foster deeper learning and increase student joy and motivation to learn.
Presenters
avatar for Margaret Dunlap

Margaret Dunlap

Senior School Design Partner, Transformative Coaching & Leadership, Challenge Success
Margaret Dunlap, M.A., is the Senior School Design Partner for Challenge Success. With a background spanning over 35 years, she has held multifaceted roles in education leadership, coaching, and program management. She supports schools in transformative reform endeavors, championing... Read More →
avatar for Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell

Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell

Director of Programs, Challenge Success
Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell, M.Ed., A proud first-generation Taiwanese American, mother, educator, and creative, Kimberly Tsai Cawkwell has served over thirteen years in the education ecosystem. As a current Director of Programs at Challenge Success and Educational Leadership Advisor at... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 315

9:45am EDT

Reimagining Feedback Through the Lens of Positive Psychology
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 313
An essential aspect of effective teaching and leadership lies in the practice of evaluation and feedback. However, this process often falls short, lacking authenticity and failing to instigate reflection and growth. How can we use research from positive psychology to create a culture of frequent feedback that encourages our faculty to see themselves as leaders? How can we teach our faculty to use this research to meaningfully evaluate their students? In this workshop, we'll dive into research on positive psychology, appreciative inquiry, and positive deviance, exploring how we can apply these ideas to the ways we evaluate our students, faculty, and school leaders.
Presenters
avatar for Heather B. Mock

Heather B. Mock

Head of School, Sandia Preparatory School
Heather Bushnell Mock is the Head of School at Sandia Preparatory School in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In her 25+ years as an educator, she has come to view herself as a “warm demander” and has grown to embrace the social and emotional development of the student as the most effective... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 313

9:45am EDT

Student-Driven Learning: A Future-Focused Approach to Teaching and Learning ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 310
In times of generative AI, machine learning, and easy access to knowledge, how can students be in the driver’s seat of their learning experience? In our school, student-directed projects are at the core of our approach. Students are active explorers driven to answer an essential question they’ve created. As they design their learning experience, they become problem-solvers and critical thinkers, content experts, and collaborators. Hear about how our school’s journey to enact this change fundamentally shifted the perception of what school could be.
Presenters
avatar for Kader Adjout

Kader Adjout

Director of Teaching, Learning, and Innovation, Beaver Country Day School
https://bcdschool.org/contact/kader-adjout/
Saturday September 28, 2024 9:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jennison 310

11:15am EDT

A Healthier Approach to College Admissions
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 316
The college admissions process can be a source of stress and anxiety for students and parents/caregivers alike. This research-based workshop addresses many of the important questions we hear from families, such as: What do college rankings really measure? Are students who attend more selective colleges better off later in life? What is “fit” and why does it matter? Participants will learn practical strategies to help reduce unnecessary pressure around the college admissions process and ways to support their student’s overall well-being and readiness for life in college and beyond.
Presenters
avatar for Jon Kleiman

Jon Kleiman

School & District Partnership Manager, Challenge Success
Jon Kleiman, M.A., is a School and District Partnership Manager. He oversees the operation of the school program, providing coordination, resources, and management to Challenge Success schools on the East Coast. Jon has worked in the education space in several capacities, from creating... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 316

11:15am EDT

AI in Action: Equity, Experimentation, and Educational Leadership
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 308
This workshop offers a strategic platform for school leaders to begin to actively experiment with use of AI, fostering equity and innovation in our schools. Through dynamic discussions, participants will share their AI experiences, learn to recognize AI bias, and master the "PROMPT Recipe" for creating impactful AI interactions.
Presenters
avatar for Dr. Stacie Chana

Dr. Stacie Chana

Founder, TechEd Maven Consulting
With a career spanning over 20 years in urban education leadership, Dr. Stacie Chana serves at the forefront of TechEd Maven Consulting, where educational excellence meets cutting-edge technology. In the era of the fourth and soon to be fifth industrial revolutions, she passionately... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 308

11:15am EDT

Capable Kids: A Strengths-Based Approach to Executive Functioning in the Classroom and at Home ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 315
In this session, we’ll explore strategies for nurturing a child's executive functioning development at school and home, including specifics for neurodivergent and gifted learners. We will cover what executive functioning skills are; how those skills connect to learning, sleep, well-being, and school success; and delve into related research. We will also explore what to do when expectations aren’t developmentally-appropriate for some learners, and the benefits of a strengths-based approach to increasing student engagement
Presenters
avatar for Caitlin Greer Meister

Caitlin Greer Meister

Founder, The Greer Meister Group
Caitlin Greer Meister is a specialist in strengths-based learning, executive functioning, and neurodiversity-affirming practices. She is also a mom of two. Caitlin is Orton-Gillingham trained and holds a certificate in Instructional Leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.Through... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 315

11:15am EDT

Designing with Purpose: Improving Homework and Classroom Assignments ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 307
Homework is a hot topic today for educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Teachers struggle to meet standards and prepare students for tests without assigning unreasonable amounts of work; students report that homework is one of their top sources of stress; and parents grapple with the competing demands of family time, sleep, and extracurriculars. This workshop examines critical questions for educators to consider: What is the purpose of homework? How much is appropriate? How can I make classroom assignments as effective as possible?  In this workshop, you’ll get answers to these important questions.
Presenters
avatar for Margaret Dunlap

Margaret Dunlap

Senior School Design Partner, Transformative Coaching & Leadership, Challenge Success
Margaret Dunlap, M.A., is the Senior School Design Partner for Challenge Success. With a background spanning over 35 years, she has held multifaceted roles in education leadership, coaching, and program management. She supports schools in transformative reform endeavors, championing... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 307

11:15am EDT

Fueling School Change with Data
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 312
In this workshop session, a team of educators from The Miami Valley School (MVS) will demonstrate how they used data generated by the Challenge Success Student Survey to drive positive school change. This session will focus on three main areas of the student experience: homework, academic engagement, and stress management. This interactive workshop will invite the audience to imagine how they might source data to drive change in their own school communities.
Presenters
avatar for N. Blair Munhofen III, EdD

N. Blair Munhofen III, EdD

Director of Upper School, The Miami Valley School
Over the past 14 years, Blair worn many hats at The Miami Valley School (MVS): history and English teacher, advisor, college counselor, and coach (of sports he didn't play). He currently serves as the Director of Upper School, and his favorite part of his job is mentoring students... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 312

11:15am EDT

Reflection and Meaning-Making Practicum: Tools for Metabolizing Experiences with Students ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 310
Reflection has the power to transform both negative and positive experiences. Everyone needs reflective practices to learn from their experiences, fully process what has occurred, and make informed changes or decisions in the future. This is especially crucial for young people who encounter trauma, adversity, or new experiences. This session aims to equip educators with effective reflection practices to facilitate meaning-making. Join us for a highly interactive session to explore the role of reflection in cognitive and emotional development, understand how it contributes to resilience, and practice various reflective activities.
Presenters
avatar for Amy Besida

Amy Besida

Chief Programming Officer, Embarc
Amy Besida is the Chief Programming officer of Embarc. She joined the Embarc team 8 years ago with over a decade of experience in instructional coaching, teaching, and mentoring. Her journey in education spans from urban classrooms to school leadership positions, where she has consistently... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 11:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Jennison 310

12:30pm EDT

Lunch
Saturday September 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Saturday September 28, 2024 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
  Meal

1:30pm EDT

All it Takes is One: Leveraging Advisory to Forge Strong Student-Teacher Connections
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 310
A key metric in the Challenge Success survey is the percentage of students who report that they have an adult to go to at school with a personal problem. In response to learning that some of our students did not have “One Trusted Adult” (Raney, 2019), we revamped our advisory program to foster more frequent and meaningful staff/student interactions without an academic agenda. In this session, we will share our journey to re-design advisory to ensure every student connects with at least one trusted adult at school, along with strategies and tips for staff and students to enhance these connections.
Presenters
avatar for Beth Blair, MA, LPC-S

Beth Blair, MA, LPC-S

Lead Counselor, The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering
Beth Blair attended The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She graduated with her master's in counseling in 2002. She has 20+ years of experience in the field of mental health/counseling and has worked in a variety of settings including... Read More →
avatar for Michelle Cundiff, M.Ed.

Michelle Cundiff, M.Ed.

Director of Residence Life, The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering
Michelle Cundiff is a student affairs professional with over a decade of experience with a focus on residential life. She has managed staff and students and supported parents/guardians in the residential and day student population. She has a master's degree in higher education administration... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 310

1:30pm EDT

Blueprints for Belonging: How to Create a Supportive School Culture ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 307
In this session, we will translate the theory of meeting students' emotional needs into practical strategies for building a positive classroom culture. Through self-reflection, small group dialogue, and large group discussions, participants will explore the impact that emotional memories have on one’s life and learning experiences. We’ll explore how to create an inclusive, celebratory, and validating school environment that promotes success and happiness for all and participants will leave with a drafted culture-building action plan.
Presenters
avatar for David Levine

David Levine

Director, Teaching Empathy Institute
David Levine, Director of Teaching Empathy Institute, is an award-winning educator, curriculum designer, author, recording artist, and documentary film maker. He has over 30 years of experience working in a multitude of educational settings across the globe as a classroom teacher... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 307

1:30pm EDT

Cultivating a School-Wide Culture of Mindfulness ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 313
As mindfulness programs become ever-present in schools across the country, how can you ensure your school’s approach is aligned with your school-wide goals and values? How can you make it feel relevant to your students, so it doesn't become another "add-on" that feels disconnected from the rest of the school day? This session will offer participants guiding questions and tips for engaging community members as key participants in creating a mindful school culture, with intention and authenticity, to cultivate a sense of community and belonging.
Presenters
avatar for Emily Fleming

Emily Fleming

Founder, Yoga In Classrooms And Schools Consulting
Emily Fleming (MAT, RYT500, RCYT) is a certified educator with over a decade of classroom teaching experience, a certified yoga instructor and the founder of Yoga In Classrooms And Schools Consulting (YCSC).Emily spent 8 years teaching yoga and mindfulness as a daily enrichment class... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 313

1:30pm EDT

Increase Student Engagement Through the Immersion Method
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 308
At the Miami Valley School (MVS), experiential learning has been the cornerstone of our approach for 60 sixty years. Using the Immersion Method (IM) – a pedagogical approach that promotes powerful learning experiences – we have been able to consistently engage students across grade levels. Participants will be introduced to the different facets of how IM is implemented at MVS, including our January Term, signature grade-level projects, and daily classroom practices. Attendees will walk away with concrete ideas for how to try IM in their own schools.
Presenters
avatar for Deb Spiegel

Deb Spiegel

Assistant Head of School, The Miami Valley School
Deb Spiegel, M.S., is currently the Assistant Head of School at The Miami Valley School where she has worked for the last 18 years. During that time she has worn many hats; Upper School Math faculty, Dean of Freshmen, Mathematics Department Chair, Dean of Students, ISACS Accreditation... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 308

1:30pm EDT

Reframing Assessment
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 315
The term "assessment" traces its roots to the French verb "s’asseoir," meaning "to sit," reflecting the original intent of a teacher and learner sitting together to discuss what is possible to learn, design, and create. In this workshop, participants will explore stories and student examples that illustrate how reimagining assessment can focus on potential and future growth. This approach fosters a sense of agency in both students and teachers, empowering them to think and operate differently while cultivating an engaging and dynamic learning environment.
Presenters
avatar for Tom Thorpe

Tom Thorpe

Founder and Director, The REDI Lab
Tom Thorpe is the founder and Director of the REDI Lab @ Colorado Academy (research entrepreneurship, design, and inquiry). A facilitator at national and international conferences and for schools, organizations, and companies across the globe, Tom brings the art of storytelling to... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 315

1:30pm EDT

Transdisciplinary Inquiry: Students as Explorers! ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 314
Students often learn in isolated silos, but when given the chance to explore, they draw from various disciplines and go beyond departmental constraints to understand issues. In this spotlight, we'll share approaches for promoting transdisciplinary inquiry through action-oriented, collaborative exploration of authentic tasks, fostering student agency, choice, and interest. This nonlinear approach enables deeper learning as students construct, make meaning, and transfer knowledge, viewing the world through multiple lenses. Join us to discuss and share ideas that promote student inquiry through an integrated approach to learning.
Presenters
avatar for Kader Adjout

Kader Adjout

Director of Teaching, Learning, and Innovation, Beaver Country Day School
https://bcdschool.org/contact/kader-adjout/
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 314

1:30pm EDT

“Get Them in the Door” Strategies: Proactive Approaches to Encourage Student Visits to the Counseling Office
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 312
Proactive "get-them-in-the-door" approaches have led to a 30% increase in student visits to the counseling office at The Miami Valley School in just two years. This workshop will explore strategies such as utilizing a "therapy" dog, optimizing room design and setup, fostering strong adult-student relationships through an advisory program, and implementing student leadership committees. Whether you are a teacher, school counselor, or administrator, you will leave with new approaches to better connect with your students.
Presenters
avatar for Aaron Eechaute-Lopez

Aaron Eechaute-Lopez

Counselor, The Miami Valley School
Aaron Eechaute-Lopez is a second year school counselor from Dayton, OH. Prior to his role as a school counselor, he spent eleven years as a English teacher in public, private, magnet, alternative, and independent settings. His educational philosophy revolves around making proactive... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 1:30pm - 2:05pm EDT
Jennison 312

2:10pm EDT

All it Takes is One: Leveraging Advisory to Forge Strong Student-Teacher Connections
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 310
A key metric in the Challenge Success survey is the percentage of students who report that they have an adult to go to at school with a personal problem. In response to learning that some of our students did not have “One Trusted Adult” (Raney, 2019), we revamped our advisory program to foster more frequent and meaningful staff/student interactions without an academic agenda. In this session, we will share our journey to re-design advisory to ensure every student connects with at least one trusted adult at school, along with strategies and tips for staff and students to enhance these connections.
Presenters
avatar for Beth Blair, MA, LPC-S

Beth Blair, MA, LPC-S

Lead Counselor, The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering
Beth Blair attended The University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She graduated with her master's in counseling in 2002. She has 20+ years of experience in the field of mental health/counseling and has worked in a variety of settings including... Read More →
avatar for Michelle Cundiff, M.Ed.

Michelle Cundiff, M.Ed.

Director of Residence Life, The Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering
Michelle Cundiff is a student affairs professional with over a decade of experience with a focus on residential life. She has managed staff and students and supported parents/guardians in the residential and day student population. She has a master's degree in higher education administration... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 310

2:10pm EDT

Blueprints for Belonging: How to Create a Supportive School Culture ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 307
In this session, we will translate the theory of meeting students' emotional needs into practical strategies for building a positive classroom culture. Through self-reflection, small group dialogue, and large group discussions, participants will explore the impact that emotional memories have on one’s life and learning experiences. We’ll explore how to create an inclusive, celebratory, and validating school environment that promotes success and happiness for all and participants will leave with a drafted culture-building action plan.
Presenters
avatar for David Levine

David Levine

Director, Teaching Empathy Institute
David Levine, Director of Teaching Empathy Institute, is an award-winning educator, curriculum designer, author, recording artist, and documentary film maker. He has over 30 years of experience working in a multitude of educational settings across the globe as a classroom teacher... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 307

2:10pm EDT

Cultivating a School-Wide Culture of Mindfulness ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 313
As mindfulness programs become ever-present in schools across the country, how can you ensure your school’s approach is aligned with your school-wide goals and values? How can you make it feel relevant to your students, so it doesn't become another "add-on" that feels disconnected from the rest of the school day? This session will offer participants guiding questions and tips for engaging community members as key participants in creating a mindful school culture, with intention and authenticity, to cultivate a sense of community and belonging.
Presenters
avatar for Emily Fleming

Emily Fleming

Founder, Yoga In Classrooms And Schools Consulting
Emily Fleming (MAT, RYT500, RCYT) is a certified educator with over a decade of classroom teaching experience, a certified yoga instructor and the founder of Yoga In Classrooms And Schools Consulting (YCSC).Emily spent 8 years teaching yoga and mindfulness as a daily enrichment class... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 313

2:10pm EDT

Increase Student Engagement Through the Immersion Method
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 308
At the Miami Valley School (MVS), experiential learning has been the cornerstone of our approach for 60 sixty years. Using the Immersion Method (IM) – a pedagogical approach that promotes powerful learning experiences – we have been able to consistently engage students across grade levels. Participants will be introduced to the different facets of how IM is implemented at MVS, including our January Term, signature grade-level projects, and daily classroom practices. Attendees will walk away with concrete ideas for how to try IM in their own schools.
Presenters
avatar for Deb Spiegel

Deb Spiegel

Assistant Head of School, The Miami Valley School
Deb Spiegel, M.S., is currently the Assistant Head of School at The Miami Valley School where she has worked for the last 18 years. During that time she has worn many hats; Upper School Math faculty, Dean of Freshmen, Mathematics Department Chair, Dean of Students, ISACS Accreditation... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 308

2:10pm EDT

Reframing Assessment
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 315
The term "assessment" traces its roots to the French verb "s’asseoir," meaning "to sit," reflecting the original intent of a teacher and learner sitting together to discuss what is possible to learn, design, and create. In this workshop, participants will explore stories and student examples that illustrate how reimagining assessment can focus on potential and future growth. This approach fosters a sense of agency in both students and teachers, empowering them to think and operate differently while cultivating an engaging and dynamic learning environment.
Presenters
avatar for Tom Thorpe

Tom Thorpe

Founder and Director, The REDI Lab
Tom Thorpe is the founder and Director of the REDI Lab @ Colorado Academy (research entrepreneurship, design, and inquiry). A facilitator at national and international conferences and for schools, organizations, and companies across the globe, Tom brings the art of storytelling to... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 315

2:10pm EDT

Transdisciplinary Inquiry: Students as Explorers! ⭐
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 314
Students often learn in isolated silos, but when given the chance to explore, they draw from various disciplines and go beyond departmental constraints to understand issues. In this spotlight, we'll share approaches for promoting transdisciplinary inquiry through action-oriented, collaborative exploration of authentic tasks, fostering student agency, choice, and interest. This nonlinear approach enables deeper learning as students construct, make meaning, and transfer knowledge, viewing the world through multiple lenses. Join us to discuss and share ideas that promote student inquiry through an integrated approach to learning.
Presenters
avatar for Kader Adjout

Kader Adjout

Director of Teaching, Learning, and Innovation, Beaver Country Day School
https://bcdschool.org/contact/kader-adjout/
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 314

2:10pm EDT

“Get Them in the Door” Strategies: Proactive Approaches to Encourage Student Visits to the Counseling Office
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 312
Proactive "get-them-in-the-door" approaches have led to a 30% increase in student visits to the counseling office at The Miami Valley School in just two years. This workshop will explore strategies such as utilizing a "therapy" dog, optimizing room design and setup, fostering strong adult-student relationships through an advisory program, and implementing student leadership committees. Whether you are a teacher, school counselor, or administrator, you will leave with new approaches to better connect with your students.
Presenters
avatar for Aaron Eechaute-Lopez

Aaron Eechaute-Lopez

Counselor, The Miami Valley School
Aaron Eechaute-Lopez is a second year school counselor from Dayton, OH. Prior to his role as a school counselor, he spent eleven years as a English teacher in public, private, magnet, alternative, and independent settings. His educational philosophy revolves around making proactive... Read More →
Saturday September 28, 2024 2:10pm - 2:45pm EDT
Jennison 312

3:00pm EDT

Closing Session
Saturday September 28, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Saturday September 28, 2024 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
 
The Challenge Success 2024 Fall Conference at Bentley University
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