Region 10 Literacy Conference has ended

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Region 10 Literacy Conference

The Rest of the Story will engage teachers, coaches, and leaders in literacy conversations that go beyond The Science of Reading. Join us as we become part of the stories from well-known authors and experts in literacy. See you at Region 10 on May 3, 2024 for an incredible day of learning!

This learning opportunity is offered for grades K-12 educators. When registering, participants will need to select the K-5 or the 6-12 strand of the conference.

Registration is FREE but space is limited. Registration is now closed for this event.

8:00am CDT

Registration, Breakfast & Coffee

Friday May 3, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

9:00am CDT

Welcome Message in Session 1 Rooms

Friday May 3, 2024 9:00am - 9:15am CDT

9:15am CDT

Applying the Science of Reading through the Brain's "Backdoor" to Deliver Phonics Faster (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Did you know that the brain has a backdoor for learning that’s easily hacked into? Using brain science as a roadmap, discover how to take advantage of early developing “backdoor” learning systems to fast-track the phonics code kids need to read. Research on the science of reading brings us closer to understanding how the brain learns to read, but not how the brain actually learns. This distinction is critical when considering that the “end user” of phonics instruction could be a 5 year old licking the carpet and eating his shoe, OR a struggling upper grade reader with gaping holes in skill ability. Complex and abstract phonics terminology (e.g. diphthongs, trigraphs, fricatives, nasalizations, liquids etc.) can be overwhelming, even for teachers! This is because our brains are wired to make meaningful connections, and it's easier to learn and store information when there's a familiar or emotional hook to hang it on. The "feeling-based” (affective) networks are primed for learning long before the “higher-level” (executive) processing centers are formed. By aligning abstract phonics skills with familiar feelings and behaviors, like having a crush and feeling embarrassed (au/aw) or playing rough and getting hurt (ou/ow), the sounds become more predictable, making them easier for kids to learn and remember. This session will leave you armed and ready to deliver phonics faster and GET KIDS READING!
bit.ly/SoRgroup.

Speakers

Katie Garner

Katie Garner (author of Secret Stories® Cracking the Reading Code with the Brain in Mind) is an international keynote speaker, author, literacy consultant and teacher with 25 years of classroom experience and a passion for infusing neuroscience into phonics instruction. Her "backdoor... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Collin Room

9:15am CDT

Driving Effective and Engaging Phonics Instruction into the Classroom Tomorrow (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Let's begin with the "slide" and its importance in the reading classroom. Did you know initial consonants, blends, and digraphs can be practiced with vowels? As a participant, you will learn the three most vital reasons for using the slide vs ending word families.
Next, learn about quick, corrective feedback using kinesthetic cues, so let's get moving.
Now, we're ready to talk syllable types and how to decode multi-syllabic words.
Let's wrap this up with a Decode-Off! (Who's feeling competitive?)

Speakers

Jenny Kier

Jenny Kier is a Lead Education Consultant for Reading Horizons. She has a Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M and a Masters of Liberal Studies from Rice University. Prior to working at Reading Horizons Jenny was an elementary classroom and emerging bilingual teacher. In 2020, Jenny... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Kaufman Room

9:15am CDT

Growing the Elementary ECR (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Come explore the rubric, prompt, and process for writing the new extended constructed response in a language-rich, collaborative way. Engage in the process with your peers and leave with numerous resources to use with your students as they respond to reading.

Speakers

Tosh McGaughy

Tosh McGaughy received her Bachelors in English from The University of Texas at Austin and her Masters in Educational Leadership from UNT. She taught secondary English and became a certified Abydos trainer before becoming a district digital learning specialist. She supported Region... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Grayson Room

9:15am CDT

Introduction to Research Based Instructional Strategies (RBIS) for RLA (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Exploring the 4 practices that should be present in every classroom for student success.

Speakers

Rhonda Leon

Rhonda Leon, M.S. is a native Texan and has a passion for education, supporting teachers and chocolate. Over the past 32 years, Rhonda’s educational adventures have taken her toEcuador, Guatemala, Russia, Mexico, Brazil and the DominicanRepublic. She has taught 2 year olds through... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Hunt Room

9:15am CDT

Moving Towards a Community of Effective Practice: The Science of Reading Also Applies to English Learners (Audience: K-12th Grades)

In the last five years, our field has experienced an avalanche of new research findings essential for improved classroom instruction. Dr. Fierro will help organize this information based on brain science, show how we can lighten the cognitive workload for many, especially our English learners, and how these findings can ultimately lead to improved learning outcomes for all.

Speakers

Dr. Antonio Fierro

Dr. Antonio A. Fierro is a former Texas State Teacher of the Year and is currently the Vice President of Professional Learning and Academics with the 95 Percent Group. For almost 20 years, he was a member of the national LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Dallas Room

9:15am CDT

Teaching Reading IS Rocket Science! Building Upon Effective Literacy Instruction (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Speakers

Dr. Pam Kastner

Pam Kastner, Ed.D., is an educational consultant at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) Harrisburg, where she serves as the state lead for literacy in Pennsylvania. Dr. Kastner along with the PaTTAN Literacy team has led Pennsylvania’s Dyslexia Screening... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Ellis Room

9:15am CDT

Foundational Skills: The Building Blocks for Reading Success (Audience: 6th-12th Grades)

A robust body of research, known as the science of reading, tells us that systematic, explicit foundational skills instruction is crucial for students as they are learning to read and write. Although automatic and accurate word recognition skills are only one-half of Scarborough’s Rope, mastery of phonemic awareness, phonics, and fluency are recognized as the best predictors of reading success (NRP, 2000). This session provides a deeper understanding of current research and effective instruction in phonological awareness, phonics, word recognition, and fluency.

Speakers

Stacie Leitzel

Stacey Leitzel is Director of Professional Learning Services for Zaner-Bloser. She resides in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. She has been in education for over 25 years and has taught several grade levels in the elementary and middle school. While a teacher, Stacey earned... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Austin Room 2nd Floor

9:15am CDT

Increasing Teacher Clarity: Standards Exemplars in Small-Group Reading Intervention (Audience: 6th-12th Grades)

Are you looking to increase student reading achievement through small-group instruction and support authentic reading experiences? This session explores a small-group instructional sequence focusing on teacher clarity, exemplars, the gradual release of responsibility, a variety of modes of student responses, and alignment to standards. Participants will take part in a demonstration lesson and reflect upon data from implementation.

Speakers

Dr. Stephen Winton

Stephen Winton, Ed.D., is an Assistant Professor of Literacy Education at the University of Houston–Downtown. He previously served as a Literacy Specialist in Klein Independent School District and has worked as a teacher, assistant principal, and curriculum director at other districts... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Bowie Room 2nd Floor

9:15am CDT

Navigating Slumps in Reading Motivation (Audience: 6th-12th Grades)

While some readers have increased their reading volume and interest during the global pandemic years, others report they don't have the emotional or intellectual energy to read or have lost their joy. Throughout our lives, readers encounter slumps in reading motivation and interest. How can readers find our way back to reading when we don't feel like reading much? In this session, Donalyn Miller will share suggestions from thousands of readers of all ages for navigating reading slumps. Session includes numerous book recommendations and resources.

Speakers

Donalyn Miller

Donalyn Miller is an award-winning teacher and author who taught upper elementary and middle school language arts and social studies in Texas. She was 2010 Region XI Elementary Teacher of the Year. In 2018, Donalyn was awarded TCTELA’s Edmund J. Farrell Distinguished Lifetime Achievement... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Lamar Room 2nd Floor

9:15am CDT

The AI We Really Need: Authentic Interactions to Craft Our Story Together (Audience: 6th-12th Grades)

In modern education, it’s easy to feel isolated and divided. Join Chase Mielke, a seasoned educator, coach, and well-being expert, in this dynamic and engaging keynote session. Together, we’ll explore practical approaches to nurturing togetherness, building resilience, and fostering a positive atmosphere within your school. We’ll learn how to construct a more harmonious and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

Speakers

Chase Mielke

Chase Mielke is an award-winning educator, writer, and speaker focusing on preventing teacher burnout and increasing student engagement. He has been awarded multiple honors, including being a Michigan Teacher of the Year nominee and a Allegan County “Outstanding People for Education... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Houston Room 2nd Floor

9:15am CDT

What Does the Science of Reading Look Like in a Middle School Classroom (Audience: 6th-8th Grades)

Speakers

Najah Rayburg

Professional Learning Specialist, Literacy K-8/ South Central Region Amplify Education Najah was a classroom teacher in Texas for ten years before joining Amplify in 2020. During her time in the classroom, she served as a Grade Level Lead Teacher and Mentor Teacher. She also served... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Crockett Room 2nd Floor

10:45am CDT

Applying the Science of Reading through the Brain's "Backdoor" to Deliver Phonics Faster (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Did you know that the brain has a backdoor for learning that’s easily hacked into? Using brain science as a roadmap, discover how to take advantage of early developing “backdoor” learning systems to fast-track the phonics code kids need to read. Research on the science of reading brings us closer to understanding how the brain learns to read, but not how the brain actually learns. This distinction is critical when considering that the “end user” of phonics instruction could be a 5 year old licking the carpet and eating his shoe, OR a struggling upper grade reader with gaping holes in skill ability. Complex and abstract phonics terminology (e.g. diphthongs, trigraphs, fricatives, nasalizations, liquids etc.) can be overwhelming, even for teachers! This is because our brains are wired to make meaningful connections, and it's easier to learn and store information when there's a familiar or emotional hook to hang it on. The "feeling-based” (affective) networks are primed for learning long before the “higher-level” (executive) processing centers are formed. By aligning abstract phonics skills with familiar feelings and behaviors, like having a crush and feeling embarrassed (au/aw) or playing rough and getting hurt (ou/ow), the sounds become more predictable, making them easier for kids to learn and remember. This session will leave you armed and ready to deliver phonics faster and GET KIDS READING!
bit.ly/SoRgroup.

Speakers

Katie Garner

Katie Garner (author of Secret Stories® Cracking the Reading Code with the Brain in Mind) is an international keynote speaker, author, literacy consultant and teacher with 25 years of classroom experience and a passion for infusing neuroscience into phonics instruction. Her "backdoor... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Collin Room

10:45am CDT

Growing the Elementary ECR (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Come explore the rubric, prompt, and process for writing the new extended constructed response in a language-rich, collaborative way. Engage in the process with your peers and leave with numerous resources to use with your students as they respond to reading.

Speakers

Tosh McGaughy

Tosh McGaughy received her Bachelors in English from The University of Texas at Austin and her Masters in Educational Leadership from UNT. She taught secondary English and became a certified Abydos trainer before becoming a district digital learning specialist. She supported Region... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Grayson Room

10:45am CDT

Introduction to Research Based Instructional Strategies (RBIS) for RLA (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Exploring the 4 practices that should be present in every classroom for student success.

Speakers

Rhonda Leon

Rhonda Leon, M.S. is a native Texan and has a passion for education, supporting teachers and chocolate. Over the past 32 years, Rhonda’s educational adventures have taken her toEcuador, Guatemala, Russia, Mexico, Brazil and the DominicanRepublic. She has taught 2 year olds through... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Hunt Room

10:45am CDT

Moving Towards a Community of Effective Practice: The Science of Reading Also Applies to English Learners (Audience: K-12th Grades)

In the last five years, our field has experienced an avalanche of new research findings essential for improved classroom instruction. Dr. Fierro will help organize this information based on brain science, show how we can lighten the cognitive workload for many, especially our English learners, and how these findings can ultimately lead to improved learning outcomes for all.

Speakers

Dr. Antonio Fierro

Dr. Antonio A. Fierro is a former Texas State Teacher of the Year and is currently the Vice President of Professional Learning and Academics with the 95 Percent Group. For almost 20 years, he was a member of the national LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Dallas Room

10:45am CDT

Teaching Reading IS Rocket Science! Building Upon Effective Literacy Instruction (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Speakers

Dr. Pam Kastner

Pam Kastner, Ed.D., is an educational consultant at the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN) Harrisburg, where she serves as the state lead for literacy in Pennsylvania. Dr. Kastner along with the PaTTAN Literacy team has led Pennsylvania’s Dyslexia Screening... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Ellis Room

10:45am CDT

The Link Between Texas Reading Academies & Classroom Application (Audience: K-3rd Grades)

Speakers

Vicki Reynolds

Vicki Reynolds spent 37 years in education. She was a classroom teacher for 28 years. Her experience includes teaching deaf and hard of hearing students, serving as a Reading Specialist, and teaching kindergarten and second grade. Before retiring in 2023, Vicki spent 9 nine years... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Kaufman Room

10:45am CDT

Foundational Skills: The Building Blocks for Reading Success (Audience: K-12th Grades)

A robust body of research, known as the science of reading, tells us that systematic, explicit foundational skills instruction is crucial for students as they are learning to read and write. Although automatic and accurate word recognition skills are only one-half of Scarborough’s Rope, mastery of phonemic awareness, phonics, and fluency are recognized as the best predictors of reading success (NRP, 2000). This session provides a deeper understanding of current research and effective instruction in phonological awareness, phonics, word recognition, and fluency.

Speakers

Stacie Leitzel

Stacey Leitzel is Director of Professional Learning Services for Zaner-Bloser. She resides in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. She has been in education for over 25 years and has taught several grade levels in the elementary and middle school. While a teacher, Stacey earned... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Austin Room 2nd Floor

10:45am CDT

Increasing Teacher Clarity: Standards Exemplars in Small-Group Reading Intervention (Audience: 6th-12th Grades)

Are you looking to increase student reading achievement through small-group instruction and support authentic reading experiences? This session explores a small-group instructional sequence focusing on teacher clarity, exemplars, the gradual release of responsibility, a variety of modes of student responses, and alignment to standards. Participants will take part in a demonstration lesson and reflect upon data from implementation.

Speakers

Dr. Stephen Winton

Stephen Winton, Ed.D., is an Assistant Professor of Literacy Education at the University of Houston–Downtown. He previously served as a Literacy Specialist in Klein Independent School District and has worked as a teacher, assistant principal, and curriculum director at other districts... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Bowie Room 2nd Floor

10:45am CDT

Navigating Slumps in Reading Motivation (Audience: 6th-12th Grades)

While some readers have increased their reading volume and interest during the global pandemic years, others report they don't have the emotional or intellectual energy to read or have lost their joy. Throughout our lives, readers encounter slumps in reading motivation and interest. How can readers find our way back to reading when we don't feel like reading much? In this session, Donalyn Miller will share suggestions from thousands of readers of all ages for navigating reading slumps. Session includes numerous book recommendations and resources.

Speakers

Donalyn Miller

Donalyn Miller is an award-winning teacher and author who taught upper elementary and middle school language arts and social studies in Texas. She was 2010 Region XI Elementary Teacher of the Year. In 2018, Donalyn was awarded TCTELA’s Edmund J. Farrell Distinguished Lifetime Achievement... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Lamar Room 2nd Floor

10:45am CDT

The AI We Really Need: Authentic Interactions to Craft Our Story Together (Audience: K-12th Grades)

In modern education, it’s easy to feel isolated and divided. Join Chase Mielke, a seasoned educator, coach, and well-being expert, in this dynamic and engaging keynote session. Together, we’ll explore practical approaches to nurturing togetherness, building resilience, and fostering a positive atmosphere within your school. We’ll learn how to construct a more harmonious and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

Speakers

Chase Mielke

Chase Mielke is an award-winning educator, writer, and speaker focusing on preventing teacher burnout and increasing student engagement. He has been awarded multiple honors, including being a Michigan Teacher of the Year nominee and a Allegan County “Outstanding People for Education... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Houston Room 2nd Floor

10:45am CDT

What Does the Science of Reading Look Like in a Middle School Classroom (Audience: 6th-8th Grades)

Speakers

Najah Rayburg

Professional Learning Specialist, Literacy K-8/ South Central Region Amplify Education Najah was a classroom teacher in Texas for ten years before joining Amplify in 2020. During her time in the classroom, she served as a Grade Level Lead Teacher and Mentor Teacher. She also served... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Crockett Room 2nd Floor

11:45am CDT

Lunch Provided

Lunch will be provided. Participants will select from a variety of boxed lunches and each in their selected Session 3 room.

Friday May 3, 2024 11:45am - 12:45pm CDT

12:45pm CDT

"Feeding Two Birds with One Worm": Integrating the Reading of Science to Implement the Science of Reading (Audience: K-5th Grades)

This workshop will demonstrate for K-6 teachers how to integrate diverse read aloud texts and incorporate an equity and excellence framework in science while maintaining the complexity of Texas’ grade level science and reading and language arts standards. The facilitator will provide strategically crafted lessons that promote the understanding of the three-dimensional science framework, academic and domain specific vocabulary, and high-quality text-dependent questions. Participants will get a hands-on, minds-on experience using read aloud text to integrate meaningful science content with explicit language and literacy standards to create innovative learning experiences. All participants will receive CLOSE reading tools and lesson samples.

Speakers

Dr. Beryl Irene Bailey

Dr. Beryl Irene Bailey is an accomplished educator, language, and literacy researcher, school and district-based administrator, curriculum developer and national consultant. She has 38.5 vested years of educational experience, within Connecticut’s Public-School system, serving New... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Dallas Room

12:45pm CDT

Artfully Teaching the Science of Reading (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Teaching reading a science and an art. instruction should be based on evidence, but it should also be engaging. This session demonstrates how to use the research to deliver creative, authentic, and aesthetic instruction.

Speakers

Dr. Chase Young

Dr. Chase Young, a former elementary school teacher and literacy coach, is a professor of literacy, and current editor of Literacy Research and Instruction. In 2023, he received several awards, including the A.B. Herr Awards for his service, scholarly activities, and overall contribution... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Ellis Room

12:45pm CDT

From Short Vowels to Complex Syllables: A Comprehensive Approach to Phonics Intervention (Audience: K-5th Grades)

When it comes to learning foundational skills, science points to HOW students learn to read and this helps educators better align instructional strategies and activities to ignite the parts of the brain that lead to skilled reading and spelling. In this session, we will highlight diagnostic assessment to inform foundational skills intervention, examine the components of an intervention lesson, and learn evidence-based instructional routines that provide the intensity required for effective literacy intervention.

Speakers

Cara Warren

Playing school as a child was Cara Warren’s most favorite pastime, so being a teacher was the only career she ever considered! After 25 years in education, Cara proudly leads Texas as 95 Percent Group’s regional literacy leader. From teaching first and second grade, to being a... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Kaufman Room

12:45pm CDT

Introduction to Research Based Instructional Strategies (RBIS) for RLA (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Exploring the 4 practices that should be present in every classroom for student success.

Speakers

Rhonda Leon

Rhonda Leon, M.S. is a native Texan and has a passion for education, supporting teachers and chocolate. Over the past 32 years, Rhonda’s educational adventures have taken her toEcuador, Guatemala, Russia, Mexico, Brazil and the DominicanRepublic. She has taught 2 year olds through... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Hunt Room

12:45pm CDT

Making the Shift to the Science of Reading (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Speakers

Michelle Giruado

Michelle Giraudo has over 10 years of experience being a classroom teacher, literacy specialist and instructional coach. Throughout those ten years, Michelle has taught with Amplify in the classroom and supported teachers and leaders in Kindergarten through Fifth grade. As a Lead... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Grayson Room

12:45pm CDT

Structured Reading Strategies for Students of Diverse Linguistic Backgrounds (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Within a scaffolded and safe instructional environment, everyone - including newcomer, beginning, and intermediate Emergent Bilingual students - can participate equitably in structured academic reading activities. Through interactive exchanges, students deepen their content knowledge and experience opportunities to practice critical vocabulary. Additionally, these practices strengthen relationships among classmates who might not otherwise have an opportunity to learn from one another. Through implementation of a few simple strategies and practices, it is possible to increase student engagement and retention of information while building both their confidence in themselves as readers as well as their empathy for other humans.

Speakers

Tina Beene

Tina Beene is an independent educational consultant and author who began her career as a bilingual language arts and social studies teacher in Irving ISD before becoming an Emergent Bilingual program coordinator and curriculum writer for elementary and secondary language arts as well... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Collin Room

12:45pm CDT

Enhancing Classroom Learning: Improved Questioning for Teachers and Students Using AI (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Creating meaningful questions in lessons is crucial for enhancing student achievement. Detailed processes for using generative AI to develop questions are described, including prompting terms, analysis of the output for specific outcomes, and creation of multiple levels of questions to support ALL students. Different strategies for teachers to improve their digital literacies through exploring generated questions/results, strategically creating and embedding questions used during instruction, creating formative and summative assessments, and designing project-based learning activities. The presenters share examples of AI generated questions from different content areas, grounded in TEKS standards. Personal internet connected devices are recommended to participate in application.

Speakers

Dr. Jacqueline Ingram

Dr. Jacqueline Ingram is an Associate Clinical Professor and the Middle Level Program Coordinator at Sam Houston State University (SHSU). She teaches courses focused on the middle grades including literacy methods; curriculum and assessment; and current trends, issues, effective programs... Read More →

Dr. Jill Pagels

Dr. Pagels is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor at Sam Houston State University. In addition to teaching courses in initial teacher education preparation programs, she is the Program Area Coordinator for the Year Long Residency. In this role, she not only supervises teacher... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Bowie Room 2nd Floor

12:45pm CDT

Making Complex Text Accessible to Secondary Emergent Bilinguals (Audience: 6th-12th Grades)

This interactive, practical session addresses the specific needs of emergent bilinguals who have reached the ‘developing’ stage of language acquisition. These students in grades 5-12 can decode text, but they may not always understand what they’ve read. This session provides concrete strategies for making even grade level content texts comprehensible for these students.

Speakers

Beth Skelton

Beth has over 30 years of experience as a language educator and holds a master’s degree in multicultural teacher education. She has worked with early childhood, elementary, middle, high school and adult language learners in rural, urban, suburban, and international school settings... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Houston Room 2nd Floor

12:45pm CDT

Reading and Writing Strategies that Support Emergent Bilinguals (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Reading and Writing Strategies That Support Emergent Bilinguals Description: This hands-on session will use mentor texts to analyze structures to acquire a deeper understanding of the content. Various language proficiency strategies to help Emergent Bilinguals move from an intermediate to an advanced level will be modeled. Participants will also learn how to support dual-language learners by understanding the benefits of translanguaging and cross-linguistic connections. Door prizes will be provided.

Speakers

Dr. Ric Villasanta

Ric Villasanta is a dynamic educator and trainer who immigrated to the United States from Panama during high school. He holds a Bachelor of Education degree in language learning from the University of Wisconsin, a Master’s degree in Bilingual and ESL Teaching and Learning from Houston... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Lamar Room 2nd Floor

12:45pm CDT

Unlocking the Science of Reading for High School Students (Audience: 9th-12th Grades)

Speakers

Dr. Arthur Unobskey

After 30 years in public education, as a teacher, administrator, and superintendent, I decided in July 2021 to focus my energies entirely on addressing the adolescent literacy crisis, partnering with my wife, Deborah Reck.‍Almost two-thirds of all high school students can’t read... Read More →

Isela Alvidrez

Isela Alvidrez has been a teacher for the past 18 years. She has taught at all levels, ranging from pre-k to 11th grade to adult ESL. She has taught 10th grade ELAR for the past two years at Tornillo High School (about 40 miles southeast of El Paso), her alma mater. Over the past... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Crockett Room 2nd Floor

12:45pm CDT

Weaving a Bigger Story: How Mentor Texts and Vocabulary Instruction Influence Student Voice and Toolboxes through Writing (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Students today are not only struggling with sharing authentic voices and ideas, but they also continue to be challenged to use shortcuts and “easy fixes” for writing through AI and other simple tools that only further mask the creativity and skill they have within. If narrative writing is the bedrock of all good writing, and if storytelling can help students to understand structure and argument, then studying mentors who do everything well should help students grow as readers and writers at the same time. With a nod to both Hollis Scarborough’s Reading Rope and Joan Sedita’s Writing Rope, this interactive session will weave together the important skill sets of using mentor texts and studying academic vocabulary to enhance the writing skills of students and boost the creativity and confidence of teachers. Good readers and writers are successful on standardized assessments. Join the conversation and workshop to find out how.

Speakers

Molly Adams

Molly Adams currently works as a Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator for English Language Arts and Social Studies, grades 6-12, in Royse City ISD, and has taught in grades 7-12 since 2000. She also recently served as as a curriculum and instruction coach for 3 years, helping promote... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 12:45pm - 1:45pm CDT
Austin Room 2nd Floor

2:15pm CDT

"Feeding Two Birds with One Worm": Integrating the Reading of Science to Implement the Science of Reading (Audience: K-5th Grades)

This workshop will demonstrate for K-6 teachers how to integrate diverse read aloud texts and incorporate an equity and excellence framework in science while maintaining the complexity of Texas’ grade level science and reading and language arts standards. The facilitator will provide strategically crafted lessons that promote the understanding of the three-dimensional science framework, academic and domain specific vocabulary, and high-quality text-dependent questions. Participants will get a hands-on, minds-on experience using read aloud text to integrate meaningful science content with explicit language and literacy standards to create innovative learning experiences. All participants will receive CLOSE reading tools and lesson samples.

Speakers

Dr. Beryl Irene Bailey

Dr. Beryl Irene Bailey is an accomplished educator, language, and literacy researcher, school and district-based administrator, curriculum developer and national consultant. She has 38.5 vested years of educational experience, within Connecticut’s Public-School system, serving New... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Dallas Room

2:15pm CDT

Artfully Teaching the Science of Reading (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Teaching reading a science and an art. instruction should be based on evidence, but it should also be engaging. This session demonstrates how to use the research to deliver creative, authentic, and aesthetic instruction.

Speakers

Dr. Chase Young

Dr. Chase Young, a former elementary school teacher and literacy coach, is a professor of literacy, and current editor of Literacy Research and Instruction. In 2023, he received several awards, including the A.B. Herr Awards for his service, scholarly activities, and overall contribution... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Ellis Room

2:15pm CDT

Assessment FOR Learning: The Science of Screening

Students enter school at various levels of proficiency. It is necessary to differentiate and scaffold literacy instruction to meet students’ individual needs which can be determined by initial and ongoing reading assessments. This session explores the connection between what we teach and what we assess, the varied types of reading assessments that support students’ reading development, and how we use the accumulating data to inform our instruction.

Speakers

Angela Cammarata

Angela Cammarata is a dedicated educational consultant and literacy advocate with more than 18 years of experience in the field of education. Throughout her career, she has held diverse roles including teacher, literacy coach, curriculum and instruction specialist, assessment specialist... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Kaufman Room

2:15pm CDT

Introduction to Research Based Instructional Strategies (RBIS) for RLA (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Exploring the 4 practices that should be present in every classroom for student success.

Speakers

Rhonda Leon

Rhonda Leon, M.S. is a native Texan and has a passion for education, supporting teachers and chocolate. Over the past 32 years, Rhonda’s educational adventures have taken her toEcuador, Guatemala, Russia, Mexico, Brazil and the DominicanRepublic. She has taught 2 year olds through... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Hunt Room

2:15pm CDT

Making the Shift to the Science of Reading (Audience: K-5th Grades)

Speakers

Michelle Giruado

Michelle Giraudo has over 10 years of experience being a classroom teacher, literacy specialist and instructional coach. Throughout those ten years, Michelle has taught with Amplify in the classroom and supported teachers and leaders in Kindergarten through Fifth grade. As a Lead... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Grayson Room

2:15pm CDT

Structured Reading Strategies for Students of Diverse Linguistic Backgrounds (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Within a scaffolded and safe instructional environment, everyone - including newcomer, beginning, and intermediate Emergent Bilingual students - can participate equitably in structured academic reading activities. Through interactive exchanges, students deepen their content knowledge and experience opportunities to practice critical vocabulary. Additionally, these practices strengthen relationships among classmates who might not otherwise have an opportunity to learn from one another. Through implementation of a few simple strategies and practices, it is possible to increase student engagement and retention of information while building both their confidence in themselves as readers as well as their empathy for other humans.

Speakers

Tina Beene

Tina Beene is an independent educational consultant and author who began her career as a bilingual language arts and social studies teacher in Irving ISD before becoming an Emergent Bilingual program coordinator and curriculum writer for elementary and secondary language arts as well... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Collin Room

2:15pm CDT

Enhancing Classroom Learning: Improved Questioning for Teachers and Students Using AI (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Creating meaningful questions in lessons is crucial for enhancing student achievement. Detailed processes for using generative AI to develop questions are described, including prompting terms, analysis of the output for specific outcomes, and creation of multiple levels of questions to support ALL students. Different strategies for teachers to improve their digital literacies through exploring generated questions/results, strategically creating and embedding questions used during instruction, creating formative and summative assessments, and designing project-based learning activities. The presenters share examples of AI generated questions from different content areas, grounded in TEKS standards. Personal internet connected devices are recommended to participate in application.

Speakers

Dr. Jacqueline Ingram

Dr. Jacqueline Ingram is an Associate Clinical Professor and the Middle Level Program Coordinator at Sam Houston State University (SHSU). She teaches courses focused on the middle grades including literacy methods; curriculum and assessment; and current trends, issues, effective programs... Read More →

Dr. Jill Pagels

Dr. Pagels is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor at Sam Houston State University. In addition to teaching courses in initial teacher education preparation programs, she is the Program Area Coordinator for the Year Long Residency. In this role, she not only supervises teacher... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Bowie Room 2nd Floor

2:15pm CDT

Making Complex Text Accessible to Secondary Emergent Bilinguals (Audience: 6th-12th Grades)

This interactive, practical session addresses the specific needs of emergent bilinguals who have reached the ‘developing’ stage of language acquisition. These students in grades 5-12 can decode text, but they may not always understand what they’ve read. This session provides concrete strategies for making even grade level content texts comprehensible for these students.

Speakers

Beth Skelton

Beth has over 30 years of experience as a language educator and holds a master’s degree in multicultural teacher education. She has worked with early childhood, elementary, middle, high school and adult language learners in rural, urban, suburban, and international school settings... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Houston Room 2nd Floor

2:15pm CDT

Reading and Writing Strategies that Support Emergent Bilinguals (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Reading and Writing Strategies That Support Emergent Bilinguals Description: This hands-on session will use mentor texts to analyze structures to acquire a deeper understanding of the content. Various language proficiency strategies to help Emergent Bilinguals move from an intermediate to an advanced level will be modeled. Participants will also learn how to support dual-language learners by understanding the benefits of translanguaging and cross-linguistic connections. Door prizes will be provided.

Speakers

Dr. Ric Villasanta

Ric Villasanta is a dynamic educator and trainer who immigrated to the United States from Panama during high school. He holds a Bachelor of Education degree in language learning from the University of Wisconsin, a Master’s degree in Bilingual and ESL Teaching and Learning from Houston... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Lamar Room 2nd Floor

2:15pm CDT

Unlocking the Science of Reading for High School Students (Audience: 9th-12th Grades)

Speakers

Dr. Arthur Unobskey

After 30 years in public education, as a teacher, administrator, and superintendent, I decided in July 2021 to focus my energies entirely on addressing the adolescent literacy crisis, partnering with my wife, Deborah Reck.‍Almost two-thirds of all high school students can’t read... Read More →

Isela Alvidrez

Isela Alvidrez has been a teacher for the past 18 years. She has taught at all levels, ranging from pre-k to 11th grade to adult ESL. She has taught 10th grade ELAR for the past two years at Tornillo High School (about 40 miles southeast of El Paso), her alma mater. Over the past... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Crockett Room 2nd Floor

2:15pm CDT

Weaving a Bigger Story: How Mentor Texts and Vocabulary Instruction Influence Student Voice and Toolboxes through Writing (Audience: K-12th Grades)

Students today are not only struggling with sharing authentic voices and ideas, but they also continue to be challenged to use shortcuts and “easy fixes” for writing through AI and other simple tools that only further mask the creativity and skill they have within. If narrative writing is the bedrock of all good writing, and if storytelling can help students to understand structure and argument, then studying mentors who do everything well should help students grow as readers and writers at the same time. With a nod to both Hollis Scarborough’s Reading Rope and Joan Sedita’s Writing Rope, this interactive session will weave together the important skill sets of using mentor texts and studying academic vocabulary to enhance the writing skills of students and boost the creativity and confidence of teachers. Good readers and writers are successful on standardized assessments. Join the conversation and workshop to find out how.

Speakers

Molly Adams

Molly Adams currently works as a Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator for English Language Arts and Social Studies, grades 6-12, in Royse City ISD, and has taught in grades 7-12 since 2000. She also recently served as as a curriculum and instruction coach for 3 years, helping promote... Read More →

Friday May 3, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Austin Room 2nd Floor

3:15pm CDT

Closing, Surveys, and Giveaways

Friday May 3, 2024 3:15pm - 3:30pm CDT