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Thursday, June 26
 

8:00am CDT

Designing for Diversity: Considering inclusive frameworks to plan for all 
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
How we understand inclusion is shifting. Rather than trying to include a few students who are different, we are striving to teach TO the difference. In this session we will consider how we can integrate multiple inclusive frameworks that might guide collaborative planning teams to design for diversity, rather than retrofit for deficits.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shelley Moore

Dr. Shelley Moore

Outside Pin Consulting
Thursday June 26, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

Supporting Multilingual and Struggling Learners with AI-Driven Strategies, Innovative AI Tools to Boost Success for Multilingual and Struggling Students (I can also separate the AI Session and the teaching English to Multilingual and Struggling Learner Se
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
In this session, educators will explore practical ways to support multilingual and struggling learners using innovative AI tools. We’ll dive into how technology like ChatGPT and Khanmigo can personalize instruction, build language skills, and increase student engagement. The session will include real classroom examples, tips for implementation, and strategies for using AI to foster equity and access for all learners.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Franco

Stephanie Franco

I am an EL Specialist for the School Town of Munster and I was a Pilot for the AI program, Khanmigo., School Town of Munster
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

Navigating Indiana's New Diploma and Work-Based Learning Requirements
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
This session will explore Indiana's reimagined high school diploma framework, focusing on the integration of meaningful work-based learning (WBL) experiences that align with the state's vision for college, career, and life readiness. Attendees will explore how to align curriculum, staffing, and community partnerships to ensure successful implementation. The session will highlight scalable models for integrating WBL across diverse school settings, offer tools for tracking student progress, and discuss how to lead a culture of career-connected learning. Leaders will leave with actionable strategies to build sustainable systems that prepare every student for college, career, and lifelong success.
Speakers
avatar for Kristen Peterson

Kristen Peterson

Associate Principal, Duneland School Corporation
Kristen Peterson is the associate principal at Chesterton High School, and has been an administrator for seven years in the Duneland School Corporation. She has been an educational professional for 27 years, with 20 years as a middle school/high school teacher and coach. In her current... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

Inclusive Lesson Design for All
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
In this session we will look at some inclusive lesson design strategies that harness Universal Design principles to reduce barriers to student engagement, understanding and expression. We will reflect on the individual needs that students have and talk about how we can provide both access and challenge around a grade level learning standard.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shelley Moore

Dr. Shelley Moore

Outside Pin Consulting
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

Teaching with Heart, Brain, and Courage: Wisdom from the Land of Oz
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Explore the diverse personalities of students through the beloved characters of the Wizard of Oz. This session will provide practical strategies and tailored approaches to support and empower students, from adventurous leaders like Dorothy to problem solvers like the Scarecrow. By understanding and valuing each student’s unique traits, participants will follow the yellow brick road to foster a dynamic and supportive educational environment.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Walley

Melissa Walley

Educational Technology Specialist, Hanover Community Schools
Melissa Walley is the Educational Technology Specialist for Hanover Community School Corporation in Cedar Lake, Indiana. In her role with Hanover Community Schools, she oversees the elementary computer science curriculum and programming for the district, as well as 5-12 instructional... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

Tech for All - Exploring Alternative Computer Access Solutions
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
This presentation explores alternative input and output devices for students with physical or neurological disabilities. It discusses options like modified keyboards, switch access systems, eye-gaze devices, and voice recognition software to enable independent computer use, promoting accessibility and equitable access to technology.
Speakers
avatar for Kaitlin Hill

Kaitlin Hill

Assistive Technology Specialist through the ATLAS Project, ATLAS Project at Easterseals Crossroads
Kaitlin is the Lead Assistive Technology Specialist for K-12 schools at the ATLAS Project. She has been a practicing occupational therapist for six years and has worked with individuals across the lifespan in a variety of settings (inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, schools, and... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

Administrative Leadership
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Interested in entering the world of administration? Join me for an informative session on administrative leadership!
Speakers
DF

Douglas Friend

High School Athletic Director, School City of Hammond
30 + Years in the School City of Hammond  -  Teacher/Coach/Administration  -  1992 - Present1991/1992 - Richmond High School, Richmond, Indiana - Physical Education/Health/Special Education (SED)1989-1991 - Eastern Michigan University - Graduate Assistant (Football/Physical... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

Vibe Coding for Schools: Building Real Solutions Without Being a Coder
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
You don't need to be a software engineer to create tools that transform your classroom, school, or district. In this session, see how vibe coding — designing the emotional and functional experience first — led to real apps and automations built by an educator with no formal coding background. Learn how you can do it too, using tools you already have. No coding experience needed!
Speakers
avatar for Josh Craig

Josh Craig

Secondary Technology Coach, School City of Hammond
Josh is a former HHS Art teacher, Media Specialist, and HS Administrator. He enjoys spending time in his arts studio with his lovely and talented wife and bragging about his 4 daughters.
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

Creating a Classroom with Student Ownership Based on Furniture
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
After visiting the VS Furniture Showroom (Duneland's furniture brand), my class took a journey to understanding how choice, accessibility, and expectations can lead to a classroom of engaged students that take ownership for their own learning. Together, we created expectations, set guidelines, and created multiple layouts that would be conducive to our learning in fourth grade. Fourth grade students are now able to choose where they sit, how the learn, and adjust their choices based on their current needs.
Speakers
avatar for Samantha Pilarczyk

Samantha Pilarczyk

Duneland School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

Classcraft is Gone, Long Live ClassMana
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Learn how to gamify your classroom and engage students like never before with the new ClassMana system. This platform is still being developed and new features will continue to be added over the summer. Learn what this robust system can already do to boost classroom engagement and help with classroom management.
Speakers
avatar for David Mueller

David Mueller

Teacher, Duneland School Corporation
Hello! My name is David Mueller. I am a 4th grade teacher at Liberty Elementary School in Duneland.
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

9:15am CDT

The Do's and Don'ts of Dealing with Chronic Disruptive Behavior: Effective Strategies for Preventing and Eliminating Chronic Disruptive Behavior in Your K-12 Classroom
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am CDT
Want to know effective, yet practical and easy to use strategies, that will prevent and transform the behavior of defiant, disruptive, disrespectful, aggressive, controlling, noisy, oppositional, and maladaptive students?

In this training, you'll learn and leave with a ton of powerful and practical strategies such as:
  1. The #1 strategy that gets defiant students to cooperate and make them think it was theirs.
  2. What to say and do when confronted with behavioral tactics and traps from disruptive students.
  3. Powerful techniques that immediately stop disrespectful behavior like arguing and insults.
  4. The biggest mistakes that almost every educator makes with disruptive students—and what to do instead.
  5. Simple, yet, powerful techniques that instantly defuse confrontations and power struggles with students.
  6. The powerful technique of setting effective limits with Choice Language when students become oppositional, defiant, controlling and rude.
  7. Strategies that stop excessive talking in its tracks.
  8. The most effective "teacher approach" to use with disruptive students.
Speakers
avatar for Kevin Dill

Kevin Dill

Show and Tell Education Consulting
Thursday June 26, 2025 9:15am - 10:45am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

From Beginner to Pro: Exploring Edpuzzle and Screencastify
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Let's chat about the best components of Edpuzzle and Screencastify free and pro versions. We'll engage with the tools as we explore these tools.
Speakers
avatar for Susan Valentine

Susan Valentine

Crown Point Community School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

Innovative Economic Education: Lessons, Best Practices, and Collaborative Publishing
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Are you looking for fresh, engaging ways to teach economics and personal finance? Do you want to connect with fellow educators, share your successes, and take your practice to the next level? Join us for an interactive session designed for teachers at all grade levels who are passionate about economic education!

This workshop will introduce innovative, classroom-tested lessons for elementary, middle, and high school. Participants will have the opportunity to share their best practices, lesson ideas, and classroom strategies in a collaborative, supportive environment. The session will conclude with a call to action: forming working groups to develop and submit lesson plans, activities, or articles for publication in JET or EconEdLink.
Speakers
KB

Katrina Babb

Indiana State University - Center for Economic Education
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

Common Formative Assessment
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Looking for ways to improve student performance and outcomes? Join me to learn how to utilize common formative assessments to drive your instruction!
Speakers
JH

Josh Huwig

Administrator, Duneland School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

Accommodations vs Modifications: The process of selecting accommodations
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
During this session you will learn what accommodations and modifications are, the process for adding accommodations to an IEP, about different types of accommodations that can be included in an IEP(or even for all students), and what changes to curriculum that transform supports from an accommodation to a modification. There will be a Q&A portion to the session to assist attendees in understanding as well as give them the ability to implement accommodations and modifications. This topic relates to initiatives of fostering inclusion of ALL students and increase training opportunities for staff in inclusive processes.
Speakers
avatar for Nikki Saulters

Nikki Saulters

Duneland School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

Empowered Educators, Thriving Students: Strategies for Teacher Support and Impact
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Great teachers create great learning experiences—but how can leaders ensure educators feel valued, supported, and empowered to make a lasting impact? Based on Ensuring Teachers Matter: Where to Focus First so Students Matter Most, this session explores research-backed strategies to strengthen teacher efficacy, well-being, and instructional effectiveness. Participants will leave with actionable insights on fostering a culture of trust, growth, and high expectations. Whether you're an administrator, instructional coach, or teacher leader, this session will provide practical tools to enhance teacher retention and student success.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shelly Wilfong

Dr. Shelly Wilfong

Assistant Superintendent, Wawasee Community School Corporation
Shelly Wilfong, is assistant superintendent of Wawasee Community School Corporation in Syracuse, Indiana. She has been an educational professional for 30 years, with 19 years as a classroom teacher. Dr. Wilfong’s main responsibilities include all aspects of curriculum, instruction... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

Instruction, Data, Technology... Coaching Unconference
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
This session will be ran in a classic unconference style. This will be a great opportunity to all types of coaches to collaborate on topics that are relevant to them. There will be a facilitator in the session, who will also take notes. Here are some topics that will be posted for sharing, however, we will begin with a form and poll that will dictate what the final topics will be.

1. Strategies for engagement during professional development.
2. Strategies for coaching teachers new to the profession.
3. Logging and tracking coaching cycles .
4. Tools that have made ANY aspects of coaching life easier.

This will be a great opportunity to make connections with coaches from this area, and share strategies and ideas.
Speakers
AA

Andrew Augustyn

Instructional Coach, Merrillville Community School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

Unlocking Leadership: Cultivating Collective Leadership
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
In this dynamic and interactive professional development session, participants will explore four powerful "leadership keys"—norms of collaboration, effective communication, strengths-based leadership, and success habits—designed to unlock greater impact and confidence in their leadership journey. Through reflective activities, practical tools, and peer collaboration, educators will identify their unique leadership strengths, refine their communication style, and build habits that sustain professional growth. Whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or school leader, this session will equip you with immediately actionable strategies to lead with clarity, connection, and purpose.
Speakers
avatar for Kristen Peterson

Kristen Peterson

Associate Principal, Duneland School Corporation
Kristen Peterson is the associate principal at Chesterton High School, and has been an administrator for seven years in the Duneland School Corporation. She has been an educational professional for 27 years, with 20 years as a middle school/high school teacher and coach. In her current... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

Leveraging Vocabulary and Background Knowledge to Strengthen the Reading Rope
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Vocabulary and knowledge building are two components of language comprehension. This session discusses research-based practices for vocabulary instruction as well as knowledge-building activities that are engaging for students.
Speakers
CR

Cheryl Rothman

Other, Calumet College of St. Joseph
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

Enhancing Math Instruction with PhET Simulations
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Bring math concepts to life with interactive, hands-on exploration using PhET Simulations! In this engaging professional development session, educators will discover how to integrate PhET’s free, research-based simulations into their elementary math instruction. Participants will explore simulations that support conceptual understanding of topics such as number sense, fractions, measurement, and more. Through guided exploration and collaborative discussion, teachers will gain practical strategies for incorporating these dynamic tools to enhance student engagement, deepen understanding, and foster mathematical thinking. Leave with ready-to-use resources and ideas to bring the power of PhET to your classroom!
Speakers
avatar for Lauren Poncsak

Lauren Poncsak

Instructional Coach, Duneland School Corporation
I'm an Instructional Coach and former 6th Grade Math teacher. I'm passionate about helping teachers find the joy in their work and maximizing student impact and engagement. 
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

Skills for Success
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Introducing Mindfulness practices in everyday decisions to help students prepare for success when it comes their way!
Speakers
KA

Katie Albertin

School City of Hobart
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

10:30am CDT

How Do You Spell 'SCHOOL'?...F-U-N!
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
IREAD, ILEARN, SAT, NWEA, STAR...you name it there's an assessment our students have most likely taken (or will eventually take). In a world where standardized testing is still a "norm," it is very easy to feel the pressure to repeatedly teach, practice, reteach, remediate, assess, reassess, and repeat.

Participants attending this session will engage in and walk away with games and activities they can use in their classrooms that give everyone a break from the rigor of a regular school day, add some friendly competition, create and strengthen a real sense of community and camaraderie. Come have some fun and walk away with several fun ways to fill your classroom with laughter, joy, and good times!
Speakers
avatar for Jeff King

Jeff King

Portage Township Schools
Thursday June 26, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

11:30am CDT

Lunch
Thursday June 26, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT
Join us for delicious boxed lunches from Stracks!
Thursday June 26, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

ChatGPT: Because Every Super Teacher Needs a Sidekick
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Scripted curriculum got you feeling stuck? Let’s unleash the power of your new AI sidekick—ChatGPT. In this live demo, you’ll discover how to breathe life into dry lessons, get creative with content, and spark curiosity in your students without having to start from scratch. From creating leveled texts and reader’s theater scripts to designing student activities and vocabulary visuals, this session will show how ChatGPT can save you time and make your teaching more engaging. You’ll walk away with real tools, prompt examples, and growing confidence in your ability to use AI meaningfully in your planning. Plus, we’ll explore a few bonus AI tools that integrate beautifully with ChatGPT, giving you a solid foundation for building your own AI-powered classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Jill Hostetler

Jill Hostetler

4th Grade Teacher, Concord Community Schools
Ms. Hostetler is a veteran elementary educator with over 30 years of classroom experience. She has taught K–4, served as a literacy and tech coach, and taught online for a year. As a 4th-grade teacher, she brings curiosity, creativity, and student voice into even the most structured... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

Marines Educator Workshop Experience
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
The Marines Educator Workshop is a learning experience where you go spend a week at the Marines boot camp base in San Diego California. You spend the week observing and learning about recruits but also what life in the marines is like after they finish their training. A lot of the information presented is applicable to all branches despite it being a Marines workshop. You also get to do a lot of hands on activities that recruits experience such as the Twelve Stalls which is a section of The Gauntlet test they have to take shortly before graduation.
Speakers
avatar for Tuzdae Bartow

Tuzdae Bartow

Duneland School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

Introduction to Looker Studio
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
This will be a hands on session exploring Google's Looker Studio. This session will cover the basics of dashboard creation using Google Sheets that can be generated from various student management systems. This session is for beginners to Looker Studio who are looking to explore this tool as a way to visualize data for teams and teachers in this school year.

This will be a "hands on" session. We will be using mock data to create a basic dashboard and dip our toes in Looker Studio.
Speakers
AA

Andrew Augustyn

Instructional Coach, Merrillville Community School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

Don't Be a Statistic - A Guide to Preventing Teacher Burnout
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Teacher burnout is an epidemic in the education world. Come to learn practical strategies to help teachers maintain energy, motivation, and well-being.
Speakers
LS

Luke Starkey

Teacher, Duneland School Corporation
I teach economics and psychology at Chesterton High School (I also coach girls' basketball). This past school year I hosted a workshop based around psychology and teaching, showing different illusions that teachers and students have and how to become a more effective educator.
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

Reflection Tools and Activities for the Mattering Mindset and Your Professional Life
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Building on the core principles of Teacher Mattering, this hands-on follow-up session turns insight into action. Participants will explore a versatile set of reflection tools that help teachers and administrators notice, document, and amplify the moments that strengthen educators’ sense of being valued. Through guided reflection activities, a Teacher Mattering self-assessment, and step-by-step action-plan templates, attendees will pinpoint practical ways to weave Mattering strategies into their daily professional lives—and leave with a personalized roadmap for sustaining impact.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shelly Wilfong

Dr. Shelly Wilfong

Assistant Superintendent, Wawasee Community School Corporation
Shelly Wilfong, is assistant superintendent of Wawasee Community School Corporation in Syracuse, Indiana. She has been an educational professional for 30 years, with 19 years as a classroom teacher. Dr. Wilfong’s main responsibilities include all aspects of curriculum, instruction... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

Aligning, Refining, and Implementing a Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Attendance, academics, social-emotional and behavioral needs- There are so many facets to student success and outcomes. How can we commit to ensuring that ALL students have the supports and resources needed to achieve their full potential? We create a multi-tiered systems of supports that provide effective, responsive, and differentiated instruction and interventions to make data-driven decisions with a student-centered approach. With a clear mission, strategic process, and effective tools, we can create a system of supports that equip students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to reach their goals. Come learn how Duneland built an MTSS framework to problem-solve and support the “whole-child” to support students and close the achievement gap.
Speakers
avatar for Chelsea Bramfeld

Chelsea Bramfeld

Student Support Services Coordinator, Duneland School Corporation
Instructional Coach at Duneland School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

Hit the Trail with Sumo Bots: A Fun Spin on Hands-On Learning!
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Ready to hit the trail with hands-on STEM learning? In this interactive session, participants will explore how students can design, build, and program Micro:bit-powered sumo robots using simple materials like cardboard and motors. This engaging, competition-based project blends engineering, coding, and creativity while fostering problem-solving and collaboration. Attendees will leave with ideas to bring this high-energy robotics challenge into their classrooms. Let’s build, code, and battle our way to learning! 🚀🤖
Speakers
avatar for Heather Clarkson

Heather Clarkson

Lake Central School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

Rethinking Behavior programs
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
In this session attendees will be introduced to a more inclusive method of integrating students with behavioral and emotional needs in the general education setting. They will be provided information on successful models, flexibility, data collection, and behavior supports. Attendees will be given information on the research behind more inclusive practices and longterm outcomes. During this presentation you will hear about resources needed to successfully integrate students with behavioral and emotional needs in the general education environment. This will be based off of the redevelopment of Duneland's emotional/behavioral support programs. A Q & A session will be conducted towards the end of the presentation. Attendees will also have access to the presentation and resources.
Speakers
avatar for Nikki Saulters

Nikki Saulters

Duneland School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

Skills for Success
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Introducing Mindfulness practices in everyday decisions to help students prepare for success when it comes their way!
Speakers
KA

Katie Albertin

School City of Hobart
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

Kids These Days: What to Know About the Students We Educate
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
"Kids these days..." growing up I remember adults in my life saying this. I believe they would say it for a variety of reasons, and the main reason I believe is because they are trying to understand them. Why? Because each generation carries its own unique identity, characteristics, and DNA. Participants attending this session will leave with a better and deeper understanding of the characteristics and learning styles of both Gen Z and Generation Alpha students (the two current generations of learners in our K-12 classrooms); along with, the best practices and most highly effective teaching strategies that engage them most during the school day and for all content areas.
Speakers
avatar for Jeff King

Jeff King

Portage Township Schools
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

12:30pm CDT

The Do's and Don'ts of Dealing with Chronic Disruptive Behavior: Effective Strategies for Preventing and Eliminating Chronic Disruptive Behavior in Your K-12 Classroom
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Want to know effective, yet practical and easy to use strategies, that will prevent and transform the behavior of defiant, disruptive, disrespectful, aggressive, controlling, noisy, oppositional, and maladaptive students?

In this training, you'll learn and leave with a ton of powerful and practical strategies such as:
  1. The #1 strategy that gets defiant students to cooperate and make them think it was theirs.
  2. What to say and do when confronted with behavioral tactics and traps from disruptive students.
  3. Powerful techniques that immediately stop disrespectful behavior like arguing and insults.
  4. The biggest mistakes that almost every educator makes with disruptive students—and what to do instead.
  5. Simple, yet, powerful techniques that instantly defuse confrontations and power struggles with students.
  6. The powerful technique of setting effective limits with Choice Language when students become oppositional, defiant, controlling and rude.
  7. Strategies that stop excessive talking in its tracks.
  8. The most effective "teacher approach" to use with disruptive students.
Speakers
avatar for Kevin Dill

Kevin Dill

Show and Tell Education Consulting
Thursday June 26, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

Unleash Your Instructional Superpowers with Iorad
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Tired of repeating the same tech instructions? Discover Iorad — the superhero sidekick that transforms your screen actions into step-by-step tutorials. In this hands-on session, you’ll explore how to create and share interactive guides that save time and empower learners. Walk away with your first tutorial and a mission card to keep your superpowers sharp!
Speakers
avatar for Leslie Lareau

Leslie Lareau

Teacher, Wheeler High School
I'm a high school art teacher with 15 years experience. I love to embrace technology and help my colleagues learn how to incorporate it into their classrooms and lessons. I am hoping to transition into tech-coaching, as our district is badly in need of the assistance and we do not... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

Using Data Points to Match Students to Skills
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Teachers will: consider data to reflect on the benefits of whole group vs small group instruction, Consider data to determine structural small group options, analyze and Reflect on data to match students to skills, get a broad overview of data points and research based assessments (free) that can be used to pinpoint deficits within the 5 pillars of the Science of Reading
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Kuchar

Melissa Kuchar

School City of Hammond
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

An Introduction to Assistive Technology for Speech and Language Impairments
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
This presentation introduces assistive technology (AT) tools that support students with speech and language impairments, as defined by IDEA and Article 7. It covers different types of communication challenges, such as articulation and fluency disorders, and explores the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, speech-generating devices, and literacy apps to enhance communication and learning.
Speakers
avatar for Kaitlin Hill

Kaitlin Hill

Assistive Technology Specialist through the ATLAS Project, ATLAS Project at Easterseals Crossroads
Kaitlin is the Lead Assistive Technology Specialist for K-12 schools at the ATLAS Project. She has been a practicing occupational therapist for six years and has worked with individuals across the lifespan in a variety of settings (inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, schools, and... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

Curious About UDL? A Brief Overview
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
In this session participants will receive an overview of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), focusing on how it promotes inclusive teaching practices that support diverse learners. Participants will explore the core principles of UDL and learn how Duneland School Corporation is working to apply these strategies to enhance student engagement and success. By the end of the session, attendees will better understand UDL and its role in shaping equitable and flexible learning environments.
Speakers
avatar for Donna Biggs

Donna Biggs

Director of Teaching & Learning, Duneland School Corporation
Donna Biggs is the K-12 Director of Teaching and Learning for Duneland School Corporation in Chesterton, IN.  She has previously served as an elementary principal, high school dean, and special education teacher. Her professional interests include the development and implementation... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

Empowered Educators, Thriving Students: Strategies for Teacher Support and Impact
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Great teachers create great learning experiences—but how can leaders ensure educators feel valued, supported, and empowered to make a lasting impact? Based on Ensuring Teachers Matter: Where to Focus First so Students Matter Most, this session explores research-backed strategies to strengthen teacher efficacy, well-being, and instructional effectiveness. Participants will leave with actionable insights on fostering a culture of trust, growth, and high expectations. Whether you're an administrator, instructional coach, or teacher leader, this session will provide practical tools to enhance teacher retention and student success.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shelly Wilfong

Dr. Shelly Wilfong

Assistant Superintendent, Wawasee Community School Corporation
Shelly Wilfong, is assistant superintendent of Wawasee Community School Corporation in Syracuse, Indiana. She has been an educational professional for 30 years, with 19 years as a classroom teacher. Dr. Wilfong’s main responsibilities include all aspects of curriculum, instruction... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

Rebellion and Hope: Teaching in the Today's World (A Survival Guide)
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Inspired by the lessons of Star Wars and the universe created by George Lucas, this session will guide today's teacher through the struggles and challenges of teaching in today's world. Topics will include discussions on the changing role of the teacher, teacher leadership, teacher self-care, and the future of teaching among others.
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Wisniewski

Jeff Wisniewski

High School History Teacher, East Porter County School Corporation
27-year veteran social studies teacher.  B.A. in history from Indiana University-Bloomington.  Dual Credit instructor for Indiana University.  Current Courses:  HS US history, Dual Credit US history, Current Events, & Humanities.  Current committees: New Teacher Welcome Committee... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

Moneyball: The 2011 Cinematic Masterpiece OR Fixing All the Problems in Your Classroom, Your School, Your District, and the World!
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
This session may be the most influential presentation you will ever attend. We will use lessons from the 2011 movie "Moneyball" to cut through the noise and define problems, formulate solutions, eliminate extraneous clutter, and be empowered to make meaningful, lasting change. This session will inspire anyone from a first year teacher to a veteran administrator. You will get on base!!!!
Speakers
BH

Brian Hennigar

Duneland School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

Planting the Seeds of STEM: Nature-Based Experiences for K-12 and Beyond
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Shirley Heinze Land Trust (SHLT) works with local schools (K-12) and colleges to advance students' understanding and appreciation for their local ecosystems. SHLT advances STEM education through in-class, field trip, and internship experiences that reinforce science curriculum, provide immersive project-based and hands-on learning experiences, and expose students to career opportunities in nature and conservation. Join our session to learn more about the different student experiences SHLT can provide and participate in an activity demo to see how nature can be a powerful learning tool.
Speakers
MP

Mari Patis

Program Coordinator, Shirley Heinze Land Trust
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

Behaviors and Data Collection Training
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Join me for a professional development resource designed to help educators understand and effectively address student behavior through data-informed strategies. Based on materials by Dr. Pennington, the presentation emphasizes modern, inclusive perspectives on behavior and provides practical tools for collecting and interpreting behavioral data.

Key Topics Covered:

  1. Old vs. New Thinking: Challenges outdated views on student behavior and advocates for seeing behavior as communication rather than labeling students.
  2. Complexity of Behaviors: Explores why behaviors are hard to change, the role of the environment, and how behaviors are learned responses.
  3. Data Collection: Introduces tools and principles (like ABC—Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence) for tracking and understanding behaviors.
  4. Intervention: Covers how to implement behavior change strategies, including reinforcement, motivation, and teaching replacement behaviors.
  5. Creating Positive Classroom Environments: Encourages fostering safety, engagement, and predictability in classrooms to support all learners.
  6. Behavior is patterned and communicative, and that with the right tools, anyone can collect and use behavior data effectively.
Speakers
avatar for Anna Weir

Anna Weir

Special Education Teacher, School Town of Munster
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

High-Impact Engagement Strategies
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
In this session, participants will explore high-impact engagement strategies designed to boost student participation and improve academic outcomes. Educators will learn practical techniques to foster active learning, build classroom community, and sustain student motivation. The session will include evidence-based practices, real-world examples, and interactive discussions to support implementation across diverse learning environments. Participants will leave with actionable tools to create more dynamic and effective instructional experiences.
Speakers
NA

Niki Avina

IEPTA Center
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

1:45pm CDT

Make Your School Fun
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Our team at Wilbur Wright Middle School has been working to build a positive culture with our students and staff. We want to share our strategies and infrastructure with other teachers and building leaders. We want to encourage positivity and want our school to be a place everyone is excited to go to every day. We will discuss classroom activities along with school-wide events and systems. We will share our data and growth that we have seen on ILEARN, School Culture, and Teacher Retention. This presentation is for all levels, K-12. We have been presenting for about three years and hope to do it forever. It brings us joy to spread these ideas and to meet people doing the same, very important work we are doing.
Speakers
avatar for Bojan Jovanovic

Bojan Jovanovic

Principal, School Town of Munster
Thursday June 26, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

"On-the-Spot AI: Real-Time Solutions for Teachers with ChatGPT"
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
On-the-Spot AI: Real-Time Solutions for Teachers with ChatGPT

Tired of sitting through PD with endless slides? This session flips the script. Join us for a live, no-presentation-needed exploration of how ChatGPT can save teachers time, spark creativity, and support student learning. Bring your questions, challenges, or “I-wish-someone-could-do-this-for-me” moments—we’ll put ChatGPT to the test right on the spot.

Whether you’re looking for help writing lesson plans, rubrics, parent emails, or classroom activities, this session is all about real-time, real-teacher needs. No experience with AI required—just curiosity and a sense of humor!
Speakers
RC

Ryan Cogdill

EMS Instructor, School City Hammond
I am a CTE instructor at the Hammond Area Career Center teaching EMS. I have been an EMT since 2012, and at the end of 2022 I obtained my AEMT certification, I obtained my Primary Instructor certification in 2017 and began to teach adult EMT programs, starting at the Career Center... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

Leveraging IXL Study Plans for iLearn Checkpoints
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
With the state-wide implementation of iLearn Checkpoints, how can we use the results to best meet needs of students? IXL offers Skill Plans for students that align with each checkpoint. You'll learn how to assign skill plans to students and individualized practice as well as how to monitor student progress toward proficiency.
Speakers
avatar for Lauren Poncsak

Lauren Poncsak

Instructional Coach, Duneland School Corporation
I'm an Instructional Coach and former 6th Grade Math teacher. I'm passionate about helping teachers find the joy in their work and maximizing student impact and engagement. 
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

“Beyond the Kitchen: Growing a Program Through Passion, Partnerships, and Purpose”
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
This session explores how a high school culinary program evolved into a dynamic, community-driven experience that empowers students, connects with industry leaders, and gains local, regional and national recognition.

I’ll share how I’ve used strategic partnerships with major companies, local restaurants, and nonprofit organizations to grow visibility and opportunity for my students. From leading fundraising events with local chefs to collaborating with media outlets and civic groups to spotlight student success, this session will offer a real-world look at how intentional engagement can build a thriving, high-impact program.

We’ll cover:
• How to develop authentic industry partnerships
• Fundraising through community-based culinary events
• Using social media, press, and storytelling to boost visibility
• Collaborating with organizations to enhance student exposure
• Running student-led events that simulate real-world industry expectations
• Building student pride and professionalism through competition and service

Whether you’re running a CTE course, extracurricular club, or classroom-based initiative, this session will provide practical tools and inspiration to help you elevate your program and create life-changing experiences for students.
Speakers
avatar for Jack K Velazquez Jr

Jack K Velazquez Jr

Hammond Area Career Center
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

Creating Data Blends in Looker Studio
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
This session is for anyone looking to to create data blends in Looker Studio. Understanding the basics of Google's Looker Studio will help with this session, but are not needed if you would just like to get exposure to the tool. All are welcome. This will be a hands on session that will take multiple data sources and "blend" them together.

The goal is that participants will leave with a basic understanding of creating and using data blends in Looker Studio. This will allow for viewers of your dashboard to see data from different sources in the same charts / tables.
Speakers
AA

Andrew Augustyn

Instructional Coach, Merrillville Community School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

Reflection Tools and Activities for the Mattering Mindset and Your Professional Life
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Building on the core principles of Teacher Mattering, this hands-on follow-up session turns insight into action. Participants will explore a versatile set of reflection tools that help teachers and administrators notice, document, and amplify the moments that strengthen educators’ sense of being valued. Through guided reflection activities, a Teacher Mattering self-assessment, and step-by-step action-plan templates, attendees will pinpoint practical ways to weave Mattering strategies into their daily professional lives—and leave with a personalized roadmap for sustaining impact.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shelly Wilfong

Dr. Shelly Wilfong

Assistant Superintendent, Wawasee Community School Corporation
Shelly Wilfong, is assistant superintendent of Wawasee Community School Corporation in Syracuse, Indiana. She has been an educational professional for 30 years, with 19 years as a classroom teacher. Dr. Wilfong’s main responsibilities include all aspects of curriculum, instruction... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

I FLY, UFLI, WE ALL FLY! UFLI Foundations: Science-Based Reading Instruction for Student Success
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Join us for a deep dive into UFLI Foundations, an evidence-based phonics program grounded in the science of reading. This session will explore Scarborough’s Reading Rope infographic, focusing on unpacking its Word Recognition components to illustrate how skilled reading develops through the integration of Phonemic Awareness, Decoding and Sight Recognition. Participants will examine compelling student outcome data that demonstrates the transformative impact of UFLI instruction on reading proficiency.

We’ll also discuss how UFLI integrates with existing curriculum maps to ensure consistency and alignment across district instructional planning. A mini implementation training will include a modeled lesson, providing a practical demonstration of UFLI’s structure, routines, and instructional strategies.

Participants will receive a collection of resources created by University of Florida Literacy Institute, to support implementation, including access to the UFLI Foundations website, training videos, printable materials, manipulatives, and implementation guides. This session is ideal for educators, literacy coaches, and administrators seeking to strengthen early literacy instruction through research-based practices.
Speakers
AS

Amy Swartzell

School Town of Munster
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

Let's Build a Brain!
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Dive into the human brain—how it develops, what promotes healthy growth, what can derail it, and the long-term consequences of early experiences—through an engaging, hands-on learning experience called The Brain Architecture Game. This interactive simulation helps educators understand the powerful role that relationships, stress, and experiences play in shaping brain architecture during childhood.

Following the game, we’ll connect these ideas directly to the development of executive functioning (EF) skills—such as attention control, emotional regulation, working memory, and flexible thinking—and explore how these capacities are foundational for success in the classroom and beyond.
Speakers
avatar for Christy Jarka

Christy Jarka

Director, Trojan Learning Center, Duneland School Corporation
avatar for Jeanne Morgan

Jeanne Morgan

Teacher, Duneland School Corporation
avatar for Betsy Kazmierczak

Betsy Kazmierczak

Instructional Coach, Duneland School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

100% Participation, 100% of the Time
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
The struggle is real! Engaging K-12 students during the instructional school day is an ongoing and ever increasing challenge. With shorter attention spans and regular distractions, getting students to "lock in to learning" is quickly becoming one of the newest "arts" in our profession. Participants attending this session will walk away with highly effective strategies and activities designed to engage 100% of their students, 100% of the time. This session will equip participants with strategies that will significantly increase student engagement when they teach their content, support student learning, and assess student understanding.
Speakers
avatar for Jeff King

Jeff King

Portage Township Schools
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

Boosting Cognitive Engagement: Strategies to Activate Minds & Bodies
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
This session will explore strategies to boost cognitive engagement through movement and embodied learning. Participants will learn methods to incorporate movement-based activities into their classrooms to enhance student engagement, collaboration, and retention. Attendees will also gain insight into the research behind embodied learning and discover practical techniques to create a dynamic, inclusive classroom environment that supports all learners.
Speakers
avatar for Donna Biggs

Donna Biggs

Director of Teaching & Learning, Duneland School Corporation
Donna Biggs is the K-12 Director of Teaching and Learning for Duneland School Corporation in Chesterton, IN.  She has previously served as an elementary principal, high school dean, and special education teacher. Her professional interests include the development and implementation... Read More →
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

Learn their Language! Engaging Students IN and OUT of the classroom with social media and technology
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT

-Expect to learn more about using Youtube and social media effectively in their classroom.
-Learn real-life classroom strategies for the modern-day student.
-Learn about my methods of community and family engagement.
-Learn creative ways to engage students to own their education and become independent thinkers and doers.
I will also raffle off two of my books as a door prize to folks who attend my session. Teachers will fill out an "entrance ticket" as part of their raffle :-)
Speakers
avatar for Erick Decker

Erick Decker

U.S. History, 8th Grade, Lake Central School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304

3:00pm CDT

Teach Like a Champion
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Become familiar with the popular book "Teach Like a Champion," and strategies within the book, that can help you with your class!
Speakers
AP

Amy Phifer

Merrillville School Corporation
Thursday June 26, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Chesterton High School 2125 S 11th St, Chesterton, IN 46304
 
2025 South Shore Summer of Learning @ Duneland
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