#triconference24: Full Schedule

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12:25pm CDT

3-5 Think Tank

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

314

Come together with your colleagues to share ideas, explore resources, and collaborate within and across grade levels.

Speakers

Davina Jozwiak

Instructional Coach, Chauncey H Duker School

Before starting her role as an instructional coach at Riverwood, Natalie was the instructional coach at Landmark for four years. Natalie taught 3rd, 4th and 5th grades at both Edgebrook and Duker for 21 years and is an adjunct instructor at Aurora University, teaching undergraduate... Read More →

Wendy Shelton

Instructional Coach, McHenry School District 15

Wendy has been working at Valley View School as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, and instructional coach. In her 20 years as a classroom teacher, she has always been curious about student engagement and learning using math games. Ask her about her favorite math games and... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
314

Session III, 3-5

12:25pm CDT

403b/457 - One Of Your Biggest Opportunities

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

307

All about 403(b)s and 457s! This workshop will cover the basics of these tax-advantaged plans, why invest in a 403(b) or 457, and the features of traditional vs. Roth plans.

Speakers

Zac Craggs

Jim Ludwig

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
307

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

6-8 Think Tank

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

315

Come together with your colleagues to share ideas, explore resources, and collaborate within and across grade levels.

Speakers

Marisa Ruscitti

Multilingual Instructional Coach K-8, McHenry School District 15

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
315

Session III, 6-8

12:25pm CDT

A PLC Overview: Critical Questions & Three Big Ideas

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 401

Participants will leave this workshop with an understanding of the three big ideas and the four critical questions of a PLC. This is a great workshop for anyone who needs a refresher or for anyone who is new to professional learning communities.

Speakers

Carla Braun

Director of Continuous School Improvement & Professional Learning, CUSD 201 Westmont

This is my second year as the director of continuous school improvement and professional learning in Westmont, Illinois, a K–12 school district. Prior to that, I was a principal at Glen Oaks Elementary School in Hickory Hills where we were designated as a National Blue Ribbon School... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 401

Session III, K-12

12:25pm CDT

Across the BRIDGE Introduction

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

Security Door 25 at the Upper Campus (nearest exit to the District Office in the North Lot)

Introduction to community based learning and how Across the BRIDGE is a gateway to possible employers for each student. We will meet at security door 25 and drive over to Across the BRIDGE in our district vans that current clients utilize on a daily basis. Participants will create items that students make on a daily basis and experience learning through the eyes of a transition student.

Speakers

Rob Ridley

BRIDGES Instructor, MCHS 156

Hello there! My name is Rob Ridley and this is my 12th year in special education and my 12th year at District 156. This is my second year in the Transition Program (BRIDGES) and I am so excited to share all the amazing opportunities that our students have to practice real world skills... Read More →

Kelly Shaver

BRIDGES Instructor, MCHS District 156

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
Security Door 25 at the Upper Campus (nearest exit to the District Office in the North Lot)

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Artificial Intelligence: Friend or Foe?

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 373

After refueling at lunch, stop in and kick up your feet for a laidback discussion on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it can affect the teaching and learning in your classroom. No need to be an expert - this is for those just scratching the surface or those of you who are already AI gurus. Education is about teamwork and learning from one another, so this will be a great time to ask questions, share how you are using AI, bounce ideas off one another, and more. We hope to discuss favorite AI tools, the benefits of using AI, policies for school/classroom use, and plans for utilizing AI in the classroom, especially so students begin to understand it better and not abuse it.

Speakers

Jen Lachel

Instructional Tech Coordinator, Harrison School, D36

Hello All! I am a mom 👨‍👨‍👦‍👦, wife & educator who loves to stay curious🧐 and help others! I started my career at Harrison in 2008 as a first-grade teacher and am currently an instructional technologist. I love staying educated on everything Edtech and curriculum... Read More →

Colleen Ringa

Literacy Teacher, Harrison School District 36

I’m a runner and a vegetarian, a mom and a wife, a middle child and a California-native. I found my way to Illinois thanks to a very handsome man and a funeral home. I’ve been teaching middle school language arts for almost 20 years and frequently find new things to attempt in... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 373

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Be Glad to Use GLAD

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

311

Come for a brief introduction to Project GLAD® (Guided Language Acquisition Design) GLAD® is a model for rigorous professional learning based on a collection of research-based, effective classroom strategies. The model enhances teachers’ design and delivery of standards-based instruction through an integrated approach, intending to build language proficiency and academic comprehension.

Speakers

Alise Gaughan

District 15 Multilingual Coach

D15 EL Coach

Megan Waxler

ELD Teacher, Duker School

Edgar De La Mora

Coordinator of Multilingual Services, CCSD 15

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
311

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Building A Healthy Relationship Between Educators & Traumatized Students

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

309

This session is for educators who want to increase their ability to support students who have experienced trauma. Combining skills from the 5-Step Growth and Resiliency Model© as well as trauma-informed approaches, educators will have an opportunity to build self-awareness for self-care, observe boundaries, appropriately respond to students’ needs and develop skills to create a safe space in their classroom.

Speakers

Audrey Grunst, LCSW

CEO/Therapist, Simply Bee

Audrey Grunst has been a provider in the mental health field since 2007, most known for her therapy skills in outpatient and intensive therapeutic programs. She opened Simply Bee in 2018 after spending 10 years in residential, group homes, intensive outpatient and partial hospital... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
309

Session III, 6-12

12:25pm CDT

Building Thinking Classrooms

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 363

Explanation of the first tool kit (vertical nonpermanent surfaces, random grouping, tasks) as well as other tips and tricks that have helped me (questioning, notes, thin slicing problems).

Canva Presentation

Speakers

Dana Opalinski (Lebrecht)

Math Teacher, McHenry High School-West Campus

My name is Dana and I am entering my 8th year of teaching at MCHS. I currently teach Algebra 1 with Earned Honors Credit as well as the ML Sheltered sections for Algebra 1. I just got married this summer! I have two dogs, two cats, and a bunny! I love being outside and spending time... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 363

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Collaborative Empowerment: The Dynamic Duo of Counselors and Social Workers in AVID Student Success

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 413

Explore the transformative impact of counselors, social workers, and educators within the AVID program, as they provide essential support, mentorship, and guidance to students. This presentation delves into real-life success stories, practical strategies, and the holistic approach to help AVID students navigate challenges and foster personal and academic growth. Observe the dynamic results of teamwork, enabling students to overcome challenges and achieve their highest potential.

Speakers

Svetlana Fastovskaya

social worker, Wheeling High School

I am a school social worker, Latino Family Nights, Snowball, and SHADES club sponsor.

Bruce Varela

Arturo Fuentes

Counselor

AVID counselor, social worker Conference Session pdf

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 413

Session III, 9-12

12:25pm CDT

Cut, Edit, Action: Mastering Instagram Reels (iPhone and Instagram required)

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 409

iPhone and Instagram required: I'm sure you've seen many TikToks and Instagram Reels in the past few years, but have you ever tried to make your own? Join this workshop designed to make video editing less intimidating, while we explore Instagram reels. (similar to TikToks) Throughout the session, you'll learn essential skills such as importing multiple videos, trimming clips, incorporating text and titles, and exporting your creations for use in classrooms, social media platforms, or any other desired outlet. Embrace video editing as your ally, realizing your first take doesn’t have to be perfect.

Speakers

Carly Byer

Digital Content Specialist, McHenry Community High School District 156

I am the Digital Content Specialist at McHenry Community High School District 156. I currently manage the website, social media, take photos and create videos. I previously worked at Vanderbilt University where I helped professors incorporate digital media into their curriculum. I... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 409

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Earning College Credit in High School

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

237 - College / Career Center

McHenry High School offers a variety of ways for students to earn college credit, including Dual-Credit courses, Advanced Placement Exams, and the Illinois Seal of Biliteracy. Attend this session to learn how students and families can save money and time!

Speakers

Kristen Mueller

Director of Admissions & Recruitment, McHenry County College

My passion is providing opportunities to access to higher education for all.

Cara Schultz

Director of College and Career Readiness, McHenry County College

I have nearly 15 years of experience in higher education, with a specialization in dual credit programs since 2012. I hold a master's degree in Adult and Higher Education from Northern Illinois University. As a community college graduate, I have a personal understanding of the exceptional... Read More →

Ava Moderhack

I am the Dual Credit Advisor here to support high school students on their college academic journey!

Curtis Menke

College & Career Counselor, McHenry Community High School District 156

Curtis is in his 20th year as a member of McHenry High School's Student Services team. For his first 16 years, he served as a generalist School Counselor. He is presently in his 4th year as the district's College & Career Counselor. Curtis helps students and families work towards... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
237 - College / Career Center

Session III, 8-12

12:25pm CDT

Engaging The Struggler

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 411

This session will provide participants with a variety of strategies and recommendations for working with students who struggle to engage in the classroom. We will address topics such as assessment, executive functioning, building a culturally responsive classroom, and supporting students with scaffolds and differentiation.

Speakers

Lauren Morley

Bilingual Math Teacher, Mundelein High School

My name is Lauren and I am about to enter my tenth year as a bilingual math educator at Mundelein High School. In 2019, I founded the Consortium for Teachers of Multilingual Learners in Secondary Mathematics - an annual summit at which local math educators meet for the purpose of... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 411

Session III, 6-12

12:25pm CDT

Help! My Student is Stuttering

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

313

I'll be giving basic information about stuttering, and what teachers can do (and shouldn't do) when a child has significant stuttering behaviors in the classroom.

Speakers

Nancy Brodson

SLP, d15

Presentation1 pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
313

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Maximizing Learning Impact: Leveraging Assessments for Secondary Classroom Success

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 406

School systems are increasingly data-rich, but educators often struggle to use this data to differentiate instruction and provide timely feedback to meet the needs of every student. This session details practical approaches for effective and easy-to-implement reteaching strategies in multiple content areas in secondary classrooms. Michelle Marrillia provides specific examples of creating a system of regrouping and differentiated instruction based on assessment data.

Speakers

Michelle Marrillia

Solution Tree

Michelle Marrillia, an educator since 1996, has a diverse background as a classroom teacher, school administrator, educational presenter, and instructional coach. She has a passion for training coaches in professional learning communities (PLC), developing teacher leaders, implementing... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 406

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Maximizing you Retirement Savings: Understanding and Utilizing The TRS SSP 457(b) Plans

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 366

In this workshop, participants will learn about the benefits and features of the of the TRS SSP 457(b) plan for eligible employees. I will discuss how this plan can help individuals save for retirement, maximize tax advantages, and achieve their long-term financial goals. Participants will also receive guidance on how to enroll in the plan, select investment options, and make contributions to build a secure retirement future.

Speakers

Tonya Coleman

Retirement Education Specialist, TRS SSP - Voya

I'm your local TRS SSP 457(b) Retirement Education Specialist and available to provide ongoing support to help meet your needs, including: * Plan information and enrollment assistance * Financial wellness education * Personalized account reviews * Individual... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 366

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Motivating Disengaged Students

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 402

Participants will learn about and discuss current research in education and best practices to make a difference in the lives of students, examine research on why students disengage from the learning process and what we can do to help them become more successful, and explore specific ideas and solutions that work in harmony with PLCs.

Speakers

Jack Baldermann

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 402

Session III, K-12

12:25pm CDT

New Kids’ Lit with Classroom and SEL Connections for Grades K-8

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

303

Learn about some new children's titles that can be used in the classroom to meet SEL requirements and will support new curriculum standards.

Speakers

Alie Stansbury

Youth Services Department Manager, McHenry Public Library District

Bertha Salazar

Youth Services Associate- Bilingual School Services, McHenry Public Library District

My name is Bertha Salazar and I am your library Liaison for grades K-5. I have an Associate of Applied Science degree in Early Childhood Education from McHenry County College. I started my career as a bilingual preschool teacher at Head Start in Crystal Lake, teaching and communicating... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
303

Session III, K-8

12:25pm CDT

Pre-K to 2nd Grade Think Tank

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

316

Come together with your colleagues to share ideas, explore resources, and collaborate within and across grade levels.

Speakers

Megan Young

Instructional Coach, Edgebrook Elementary School

Megan has been teaching for over 20 years. She has taught fourth grade, been a Reading Specialist, LMC director and is currently an instructional coach. She enjoys collaborating with others and learning from them.

Jenni Atkinson

Instructional Coach, McHenry District 15

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
316

Session III, PreK-2

12:25pm CDT

Processes & Routines for Successful Math PLCs

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 403

In this workshop, participants will learn the tools, routines, and tenets of a DuFour Award-winning PLC Math team.

Speakers

Katrina Zorbas

Marc Delisle

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 403

Session III, 6-12

12:25pm CDT

Restorative Practices in the Classroom

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 369

This workshop focuses on how teachers can use basic restorative practices in their classroom to facilitate meaningful conversations with students. This includes the use of affective statements and how to align conversations with the CASEL SEL framework. The workshop will also show the connection between Restorative Practices and the district's Portrait of a Graduate. Teachers will learn strategies to use informal affective questioning, behavior management strategies, and formal restorative conferencing. Finally, the session will conclude with interactive scenarios where participants will be able to practice their newly learned skillset in a small group setting.

Speakers

Nick Valenziano

Business Teacher, McHenry Community High School

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 369

Session III, K-12

12:25pm CDT

SPOLIGHT SPEAKER: Chris Singleton

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

Auditorium

Speakers

Chris Singleton

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
Auditorium

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Station Rotation For All

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 370

Station rotation is so much more than just setting up stations and having students rotate around the room. Learn how to purposefully group students, how to structure your stations, and how to make a “linear agenda” go horizontal. This blended model requires no flexing at all. You will get to see examples across content areas and hear some tips and tricks from teachers who have tried it out. Be prepared to keep an open mind as to how you could incorporate this strategy into your teaching!

Speakers

Megan Edwards

Family Consumer Sciences, McHenry West High School

Leah Pelletier

BioMed Teacher/Learning Coach, McHenry Community High School

12th Year High School PLTW Biomedical Science Teacher, Learning Coach, Promoter of Curiosity, Leadership Developer, Empowered Woman.

Station Rotation 21624 (1) pptx

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 370

Session III, PreK-12

12:25pm CDT

Student Apathy: Root Causes & Solutions

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 372

Have you experienced frustration with the lack of student motivation in your area of expertise? Does it seem like students don’t care as much as you would like? This workshop will address those issues and explore the root causes of student apathy. Participants will be exposed to research in regards to student apathy and the impact on students and staff. Participants will leave with techniques and strategies to address apathy and improve student learning.

Speakers

Sean Sterner

Eric Born

Greg Eiserman

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 372

Session III, 6-12

12:25pm CDT

Taking Nearpod to the Next Level: K-5

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

305

In this session, we will focus on the power of feedback in Nearpod. Teachers will learn how to use Nearpod's live feedback features as well as how to differentiate for a variety of learning styles, linguistic needs and readiness levels using Nearpod lessons, activities and interactive videos. Participants will also learn how to leverage our newest updates!

Speakers

Brittany Granquist

Illinois District Customer Success Manager, Renaissance - Nearpod

Brittany Granquist is a former educator with 10 years of experience. With a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education and a Masters Degree in Mathematics Education, Brittany has married her love of EdTech and pedagogy as a Nearpod District Customer Success Manager!

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
305

Session III, K-5

12:25pm CDT

The ABCs of SEL: How to Build Autonomy, Belonging, and Competency in Your Classroom

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

317

Participants will take away tools and strategies to support the development of autonomy, belonging, and competency in their classrooms. They will discover ways to help students establish voice and choice, create spaces where students cultivate meaningful relationships, and feel independent and successful. This session is designed to positively affect students and teachers (plus, we have giveaways!!).

Speakers

Jenny Mihevc

Rich Vannoy

SEL Coordinator, Retired - McHenry School District #15

Dawn Roberts

Kindergarten

My name is Dawn Roberts. This is my 20th year of teaching (Kindergarten, Pre-K, and 1st). I currently teach Kindergarten at Hilltop Elementary School in McHenry. My recent master's project consisted of research surrounding self-regulation strategies for students and teachers. That... Read More →

ABCs of SEL Presentation pdf

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
317

Session III, PreK-3

12:25pm CDT

The Case For Pop Culture In The Classroom

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 362

The workshop will explain the research and benefits of using popular culture not just as a tool, but as the backbone of curriculum in the secondary classroom. It will include discussion on how to integrate films, television, video games, etc. into a variety of different subjects and examples of such classes.

Speakers

Abby Kirby

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 362

Session III, 6-12

12:25pm CDT

TRS Benefits: Start to Finish for Tier 2 Members (1st day of contribution in ANY Illinois pension system after 1/1/2011)

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT

CSTI 367

You may have a whole career in education and are thinking about retiring soon. Or you may be early in career and wondering how to plan far into the future. Or education may be your second career. This workshop will help you understand what you need to consider to maximize the benefits you will have in retirement ... whether that is 5 years away or 40!

Speakers

Sandie Benhart

Outreach Coordinator, Teachers Retirement System

I work with TRS members, Regional Offices of Education, District Business Managers and the IRTA/IEA organizations to help our membership understand their retirement or disability benefits as well as to explain survivor benefits for loved ones. This incorporates both Tier I and Tier... Read More →

Friday August 30, 2024 12:25pm - 1:15pm CDT
CSTI 367

Session III, PreK-12