2026 VBCPS Summer Leadership Conference: Full Schedule

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8:00am EDT

Light Breakfast Refreshments and Networking

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT

All Attendees

8:30am EDT

General Session for All

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 9:15am EDT

All Attendees

9:30am EDT

Advancing Effective PLCs: Designing the Conditions for Collaborative Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

How do school leaders move PLC teams beyond compliance and toward meaningful collaborative learning? In this session, leaders will use the new Conditions for Effective Collaborative Teams guide to examine the systems, leadership practices, and cultural conditions that strengthen professional learning, improve tier 1 practices, and foster collective efficacy. Through discussion, reflection, and systems analysis, leaders will identify priorities for growth and determine practical next steps to strengthen collaborative practices and improve student outcomes across their schools and departments.

Speakers

Angelyn Berry

Professional Learning Coordinator, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Abigail Dougherty

PreK-12 Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

9:30am EDT

Better Together: Supporting Co-Teaching Excellence Making Instruction Work Together

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

As school administrators, we are often caught in the gap between maintaining a safe, orderly building and ensuring that students feel supported. The Behavior Intervention Support Team (BIST) model offers a powerful framework, but how do we scale its most impactful elements across schools? This collaborative, hands-on professional learning session is designed specifically for school leaders to integrate components of BIST into their daily practice, coaching, and school-wide systems. The BIST elements of skills-based coaching, common language, predictability, early intervention, and caring confrontations will be explored.

Speakers

Marissa Robinson

Special Education Coordinator, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children

Mary Telinde

Special Education Coordinator, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children

Pamela Ballard

Special Education Coordinator, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

Just Enough Systems Thinking to Be Dangerous

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

When I heard the quote on the Strategic Action Agenda — “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems” — my first thought was “that would make a great tattoo.” My second was that it would be a great session. My goal is to give you just enough systems thinking to be dangerous. We'll explore feedback loops, leverage points, and the structures quietly running our schools — without disappearing into the theoretical weeds. We'll also dig into practical tools. Because understanding your system is only half the battle. The other half is knowing where to push.

Speakers

Lisa Banicky

Executive Director, Department of Planning, Innovation and Accountability

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Rise Up

9:30am EDT

The Discipline Reset: Reducing Recidivism through Restorative Practices

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Tired of the "revolving door" of office referrals? Traditional punishment stops behavior temporarily, but it rarely changes it. Based on current research on restorative practices, this session will support school administrators with moving beyond student compliance to achieve student accountability. Attendees will gain an understanding of the principals of restorative practices and leave with tools to help move your school from a system of consequences to a culture of growth.

Speakers

Robert Wnukowski

Parent and Stakeholder Services Coordinator, Department of School Leadership

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

What You Say Matters: Communication Strategies for School Leaders

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

This session is designed to equip school leaders with practical tools to communicate clearly and effectively. Participants will receive tips and best practices for showcasing positive stories and crafting engaging newsletters. The session will also cover writing strategies for community messages during incidents, news media insights and procedures, and leveraging AI to support communication. Attendees will leave with strategies to streamline messaging, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure their school's story is shared with impact.

Speakers

Nicole Livas

Chief Communications & Community Engagement Officer, Communications & Community Engagement

Ryan DeLucie

Public Relations Coordinator, Communications & Community Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students
Strand Team Up

9:30am EDT

Beyond the Survey: Using Student Voice to Drive Responsive Supports

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

How can student voice strengthen the way schools respond to student needs? In this session, school leaders will learn to use the data related to the new Future-Ready Profile to maximize Tier 1 instruction and strengthen supports for students’ readiness to learn. Participants will use data protocols to analyze spring survey results, identify trends and areas of need, and begin translating insights into responsive action. Leaders from Great Neck Middle School will also share how their team used student survey data to shape instructional and belonging practices this year.

Speakers

Kate Miller

School Counselor, Great Neck MS

Michelle Jackson

School Improvement Specialist, Great Neck MS

Paige Scherr

Principal MS, Great Neck MS

Robert Veigel

Research Specialist, Department of Planning, Innovation and Accountability

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

Building Access for All: What School Leaders Need to Know About the ADA Title II Accessibility Requirements

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

The ADA Title II Web and Mobile Application Accessibility Rule will impact far more than division websites. School and teacher leaders play a critical role in ensuring that newsletters, presentations, classroom materials, videos, family communications, and shared documents are accessible to all users, including individuals with disabilities. This session will provide practical guidance on school-level implications of the new requirements, common accessibility barriers to avoid, and simple strategies staff can implement immediately. Participants will also learn about the division’s implementation plan, training opportunities, and support resources. This work supports the 2026–2027 Strategic Action Agenda by strengthening equitable access to communication, learning, and family engagement.

Speakers

Anna Cleveland

Department of Legal Services, Department of Legal Services

Madeline Curott

Public Relations Coordinator II, Department of Communications and Community Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Build Up

9:30am EDT

Clarity to Connection: High-Impact Family Engagement Strategies

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

This session will explore the definition of Family Engagement and FACE’s High Impact Strategies, and how they align with Compass to 2030 Goal 4. These strategies support the 2026-2027 Strategic Action Agenda to strengthen family partnerships in schools. Finally, attendees will reflect on their current practices and develop action steps to integrate these strategies into daily school routines. Walk away with a practical, ready-to-use Family Engagement Toolkit—packed with strategies to boost communication, strengthen relationships, and foster shared decision-making across your school community.

Speakers

Joyce Hawkins

Family Outreach Representative, Office of Family and Community Engagement

Admon Alexander

Director of Family and Community Engagement, Department of Communications and Community Engagement

Jacqueline Crawley Coleman

Family Outreach Representative, Office of Family and Community Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students
Strand Team Up

9:30am EDT

Cultivating Belonging through the CARE Continuum

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Every student, staff member, and family deserves to feel seen, valued, and connected. In this interactive session, participants will explore the CARE Continuum, the VBCPS belonging framework built on Connection, Achievement, Responsiveness, and Engagement, to intentionally foster belonging across your school community. Participants will identify key practices within each CARE pillar that strengthen relationships and reduce barriers to learning, and design at least one actionable strategy to implement within their classroom or building. Attendees will also examine how responsive systems support equitable outcomes for all learners. Walk away with tools you can use right away.

Speakers

Ty Harris

Director of Opportunity and Achievement, Office of Opportunity and Achievement

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility, Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

9:30am EDT

New Teacher, Different Needs: A Tiered Approach to Support

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

A provisionally licensed teacher, a traditionally prepared first-year teacher, and a veteran new to VBCPS each walk into your building, and each one needs something different. In this session, leaders will use scenario-based case studies and a tiered support framework to map what responsive, proactive support looks like at Tier 1, 2, and 3. Through collaborative table work and cross-level peer learning, participants will leave knowing what to do next when a teacher needs more than what's currently in place, because every new educator deserves to feel known and supported from day one.

Speakers

Angela Parsons

Professional Learning Specialist, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Karol Bledsoe

Professional Learning Specialist, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Build Up

9:30am EDT

Team Up Beyond the Bell: Childcare, Enrichment, and Community Partnerships That Work

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Do you know what childcare, enrichment, and career programs are available to your students, staff, and families right now? This session brings together VBCPS, Parks & Recreation, and the YMCA to show you the full picture. From before- and after-school care at your elementary schools to teen employment programs, entrepreneurship initiatives, and financial assistance options, you will learn what is already operating in your buildings and community and how to connect families to it. Leave with a resource guide, partner contacts, and the confidence to be the bridge between your school community and the support they need.

Speakers

Amy Church

Director of Employment Services, Department of Human Resources

James Avila

Coordinator of Recruitment and Retention, Department of Human Resources

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Team Up

9:30am EDT

The AI-Empowered Leader: Building Capacity and Efficiency Across Your Team

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Ready to move beyond the AI hype and into high-impact practice? This interactive breakout session explores how leaders can empower staff to use AI as a collaborative partner for professional growth. We’ll share practical strategies for using AI to streamline administrative tasks, enhance PLC collaboration, and provide personalized teacher support. Participants will engage with hands-on tools and leave with a "Quick-Start" framework to lead AI implementation at their own locations. Join us to discover how prioritizing staff capacity with AI creates a stronger, more connected school community where everyone thrives.

Speakers

Chad Huff

Instructional Technology Specialist, Corporate Landing ES

Erik Peterman

Instructional Specialist, Corporate Landing ES

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Build Up

9:30am EDT

Tools that Talk Back: Smarter Multilingual Family Communication

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Lost in Translation? Not Anymore. This interactive, next level workshop supports staff in overcoming language barriers that impact family communication and engagement. Participants will explore practical, reliable language access tools and strategies, including advanced features in PowerPoint, Canva, and other commonly used platforms. The session focuses on addressing common barriers such as inconsistent translation, unclear messaging, and limited accessibility. Leave with hands-on strategies, recommended tools, and ready to use resources to improve communication, build understanding, and better support families and students. Please bring your laptop and be ready to access PowerPoint (desktop version, as the session will include hands-on activities to explore different AI tools and resources.

Speakers

Domenica Nichols

Family Outreach Representative, Office of Family and Community Engagement

Jason Tomik

IT Specialist, Princess Anne HS

Tina Garfield

Family Outreach Representative, Office of Family and Community Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students
Strand Team Up

9:30am EDT

Inspiring Impact Through Small Group

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Independent station time is not a pause in learning; it is where automaticity develops through the intentional, repeated, distributed practice that research shows whole group instruction alone cannot provide. This session introduces administrators to a newly developed set of curriculum resources for Independent Literacy Stations aligned to HQIM and Evidence-based Reading Research, leaving leaders with a clear vision of high-quality station time and the tools to support teachers in closing the gap between taught and mastered standards. Administrators will leave with practical tools for supporting teacher practice, strengthening Tier 1 literacy instruction, and improving coherence across classrooms and grade levels.

Speakers

Lorena Kelly

Executive Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction, Department of Teaching and Learning

Robyn Cady

Early Literacy Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Ryan Goldburg

Director of Instructional Technology, Office of Instructional Technology

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Elementary School Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

Build a Culture of Writing Excellence

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Join us as we explore ways to strengthen writing instruction and inspire meaningful student growth in Grades 3–5. In this session, teachers and leaders will collaborate to use a writing continuum as a roadmap for student progress and instructional alignment. We will examine strategies for coaching and collaboration, such as the RACE framework and writing exemplars, ensuring students produce clear, evidence-based responses to reading. We will demonstrate how to leverage HMH resources and the Standards of Learning to create a unified school-wide strategy to impact student achievement while fostering a genuine love for writing.

Speakers

Angelia Ragland

ELA Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Cindy Matney

Reading Specialist, New Castle ES

Heather Quinn

Principal ES, New Castle ES

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

De-Escalation for Leaders: from Crisis to Calm

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

In today’s classrooms, educators frequently encounter students exhibiting signs of high anxiety, frustration, or interfering behavior. When a student’s emotions escalate, traditional disciplinary responses can sometimes worsen the situation. This interactive, evidence-based professional learning session equips administrators and support staff with the practical tools and psychological insights needed to defuse tense situations before they escalate into crises. Participants will learn how to read early warning signs, regulate their own stress responses, and apply verbal and non-verbal techniques that restore safety and connection to the learning environment.

Speakers

Felicia Shelton

Behavior Intervention Specialist, Office of Student Support Services

Lauren Ross

Behavior Intervention Specialist, Office of Student Support Services

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

From Poster to Practice: Bringing the Future-Ready Profile to Life

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

How do you move the Future-Ready Profile from a poster on the wall to daily student experiences? In this interactive session, you will explore the systems, leadership moves, and structures that support embedding Future-Ready Profile attributes into Tier 1 classroom practices and school culture. An administrator and teacher leader will share implementation strategies and examples from their school that bring the Future-Ready Profile to life, followed by collaborative planning time for you to identify next steps for your own building. You will leave with ready-to-use examples and actionable ideas for implementation.

Speakers

Allison Sansone

Professional Learning Specialist, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Kylie Gray

Grade 2 Teacher, Kempsville Meadows ES

Christa Markert

Principal ES, Kempsville Meadows ES

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

Leveraging the Tier 1 Behavior Checklist to Support Student Success, Elementary

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Discover how one school’s leadership team built a strategic, schoolwide system to strengthen Tier 1 behavioral and social-emotional learning practices. Using real examples, planning tools, and the VBCPS Tier 1 Universal Behavior Checklist, you'll explore practical ways to enhance support for students and staff. Together we will engage in collaborative inquiry and you will leave with actionable, customizable ideas to implement in your school this year.

Speakers

Heather Shuler

Assistant Principal ES, Windsor Oaks ES

Andrea Curney

Coordinator of Behavior Intervention,, Office of Student Support Services

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

The Foundations of Visible Learning: Cultivating Climate

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

This session opens with a direct challenge to the language we use when we talk about students and builds the case that culture is not the soft stuff, it's the precondition for all of the instructional work we're asking teachers to do. Leaders will examine how adult culture in PLCs shapes classroom culture for students, explore what collective efficacy actually requires of a faculty, and consider their own role in modeling the learning environment they want teachers to create.

Speakers

Chad Gangwer

Coordinator of Elementary Social Studies, Department of Teaching and Learning

Tiffany Mack

Elementary Language Arts Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Laura Silverman

Director of Title I Programs, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Build Up

9:30am EDT

Why Science?

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

To be successful in a rapidly changing world, students must be able to think critically, ask questions, analyze information, and use evidence. This is why science is for all! How can we ensure that all students have access to meaningful science experiences and are Future-Ready? This session will support school leaders in leveraging the practices of teacher clarity to prioritize science instruction and build a shared understanding of science as a way of thinking, not just a subject. Leaders will leave inspired and equipped with clear, actionable strategies to support high-quality science instruction in their schools.

Speakers

Tatjana Roth

Elementary Science Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Nancye Flinn

Elementary Science Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

Bridging Success: How AVID & ESL Mentorship Builds Future-Ready Students Through Leadership and Belonging

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Discover how Bayside High School launched an innovative AVID/ESL mentorship program that pairs AVID student leaders with multilingual learners to build organization, confidence, language development, and school connectedness. Participants will explore how cross-peer mentoring creates belonging while strengthening leadership and academic readiness for both groups. This interactive session will include program structures, student success stories, implementation tools, and hands-on planning strategies to replicate or adapt the model in any school setting. Attendees will leave with practical resources to build partnerships that lift students, strengthen culture, and prepare learners to be future-ready.

Speakers

Kimberly Nurse

Administrative Assistant, Bayside HS

Caitlin Riley

Assistant Principal HS, Bayside HS

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

High School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

HS Instructional Design and Decisions for Moving Forward with AI for HS Leaders

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

This session puts our AI learning into practice. As we determine our next steps with using AI to guide high school students, instructional decisions require consideration. With the widespread availability of AI in mind, how will this affect instructional design? Will educators stay the course with no changes, will they seek to make certain learning opportunities more AI resistant, or will they intentionally guide students in using AI responsibly and effectively? This session empowers school leaders to recognize and actively support the evolving changes in instructional design.

Speakers

Sheila Teri

Instructional Technology Coordinator, Office of Instructional Technology

Jennifer Clements

Instructional Technology Coordinator, Office of Instructional Technology

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

High School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

Internships by Design: Developing Career Connections for Students

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

This session will demonstrate how to develop, implement, and refine a high school course that connects students to internship opportunities with community and business partners by sharing Tallwood High School's experience with Career Strategies Seminar.

Speakers

Dorothy Varela

School Improvement Specialist, Tallwood HS

Lindsey Clouser

Social Studies Teacher, Tallwood HS

Ryan O'Meara

Principal HS, Tallwood HS

Shaheen Soorani

Assistant Principal HS, Tallwood HS

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

High School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

9:30am EDT

AI Instructional Foundations for MS Administrators

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

As school leaders, we have a unique opportunity to lead the transition from traditional practices toward a shared vision for innovation. This session reframes AI as a sophisticated co-designer rather than a hurdle. By leveraging Gemini and MagicSchool, we will explore how to design inquiry-based, AI-resistant assignments that prioritize authentic student voice. Attendees will gain actionable strategies and resources from the Social Institute to move from traditional assessments to high-engagement, student-driven learning. Join us to help staff ensure that critical thinking and original process remain at the heart of the modern curriculum.

Speakers

Charlie Hinsch

Instructional Technology Coordinator, Office of Instructional Technology

Matthew Colohan

Instructional Technology Coordinator, Office of Instructional Technology

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Middle School Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

9:30am EDT

Leveraging the Tier 1 Behavior Checklist to Support Student Success, Secondary

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Explore ideas to build a strategic, schoolwide system to strengthen Tier 1 behavioral and social-emotional learning practices. Using real examples, planning tools, and the VBCPS Tier 1 Universal Behavior Checklist, you'll explore practical ways to enhance support for students and staff. Together we will engage in collaborative inquiry, and you will leave with actionable, customizable ideas to implement in your school this year.

Speakers

Melody Cariello

School Counselor, Landstown HS

Pamela Mudway

Behavior Intervention Specialist, Office of Student Support Services

Tori Beck

Principal HS, Landstown HS

Thursday July 23, 2026 9:30am - 10:30am EDT

Secondary Administrators (MS and HS)

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

Mentoring Outside the Lines

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

What if your most impactful mentor has nothing to do with your job title? This session introduces HR Horizons, a mentoring model that intentionally pairs employees across roles and departments rather than by job alignment. Through a walkthrough of the program's monthly themes, hands-on activities, and real examples, attendees will learn how to build a mentoring initiative that strengthens peer-to-peer learning, cross-role collaboration, and fosters a sense of belonging among staff across schools and departments. Participants will leave with practical ideas for creating mentoring structures that help employees feel known, supported, connected to the mission, and engaged in meaningful professional dialogue beyond their immediate role or setting.

Speakers

Darnita Trotman

Chief Human Resources Officer, Department of Human Resources

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Build Up

10:45am EDT

Modernizing School Volunteerism with SignUpGenius Enterprise

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

This presentation will empower school administrators to modernize volunteerism, aligning with Goal 4 of Compass to 2030. Leaders will learn to replace inefficient generic tools, which often cause "sign-up fatigue" and fragmented data, with centralized system, SignUpGenius Enterprise. The focus will be on leveraging automated reminders and reporting dashboards to track participation and ensure operational accountability. Administrators will master a three-phase roadmap—set-up, launch, and growth—to transform school-wide engagement into a professional, data-driven operation that supports student achievement.

Speakers

Joyce Hawkins

Family Outreach Representative, Office of Family and Community Engagement

Rebecca Headings

Family Outreach Representative, Office of Family and Community Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Team Up

10:45am EDT

The Journey of a Post: Partnering for Stronger School Storytelling

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Ever wonder what happens between submitting a media request and seeing a post on social media? This session pulls back the curtain on the process and shows school leaders and staff how they can become stronger partners in sharing their school stories. Participants will learn practical strategies to improve event coverage requests, increase visibility through tagging and branded hashtags, and support timely, engaging content creation. The session will also provide guidance for schools interested in launching or strengthening their own social media presence while aligning with division expectations and best practices. Attendees will leave with actionable tips to help elevate and celebrate their school communities.

Speakers

Chanae Joyner

Social Media Manager, Department of Communications and Community Engagement

Madeline Curott

Public Relations Coordinator II, Department of Communications and Community Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Build Up

10:45am EDT

You Can’t Control the Chaos, But You Can Lead Through It: Navigating Complex Situations with Professionalism, Grace, and Accountability

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

School leaders are increasingly navigating emotionally charged, high-stakes situations where there is no perfect script, no clean answer, and no easy resolution. This session explores how leaders can remain grounded, responsive, and accountable while navigating conflict, pressure, competing perspectives, and complex human behavior.

Speakers

Robert Jamison

Executive Director of Student Support Services, Department of Teaching and Learning

Kimani Vaughan

Director of Elementary Schools, Department of School Leadership

Teri Breaux

Director of Elementary Schools, Department of School Leadership

Walter Brower

Senior Executive Director of High Schools, Department of School Leadership

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence, Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students
Strand Rise Up

10:45am EDT

Applying the Science of Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Join us to explore how key principles from the Science of Learning can strengthen Tier 1 instruction, advance instructional clarity, and support a culture of learning across collaborative teams. We will examine current research on how students learn, remember, and transfer knowledge, while sharing a practical framework for evaluating instructional practices. Through collaborative discussion and application, participants will identify ways to integrate science of learning principles into PLC conversations, feedback cycles, and instructional decision-making to support more intentional, high-impact learning experiences for all students.

Speakers

Angelyn Berry

Professional Learning Coordinator, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Chad Gangwer

Coordinator of Elementary Social Studies, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Build Up

10:45am EDT

Different by Design: Understanding the Power of Your Productivity Style

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Why do some team dynamics flow effortlessly while others experience constant friction? Often, the answer isn't commitment or competence - it's cognitive style. In this interactive session, you'll identify your productivity style, examine how it shapes the way you lead and collaborate, and explore what happens when different styles collide on a team. Through structured reflection and small-group discussion, you'll leave with one concrete, personalized change you can implement immediately. Whether you're a prioritizer, a planner, an arranger, or a visualizer, this session will change how you see yourself and your colleagues, and strengthen the collaborative culture we're building together.

Speakers

Angela Parsons

Professional Learning Specialist, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Shelley Erbland

Professional Learning Specialist, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Rise Up

10:45am EDT

Leading with Care: Driving Engagement and Awareness with Care Solace

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Join Care Solace for a session tailored specifically for VBCPS administrators. Moving past technical workflows, this session focuses on your strategic leadership role. Leaders will leave equipped to champion Care Solace and seamlessly guide families to counselors for a warm handoff.
During this session you will:

Learn how to identify families struggling with mental health, substance use, and social service challenges.
Discover the critical care gaps Care Solace fills
Gain key talking points to confidently describe these services to families
Be provided with a quick, behind-the-scenes demo of how school counselors utilize the system

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Build Up

10:45am EDT

More Than a Walkthrough: Building Purposeful Peer-to-Peer Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Peer-to-peer learning is a priority within the Strategic Action Agenda, but meaningful collaboration does not happen simply by placing educators in classrooms together. This session explores how school leaders can design purposeful learning walks, peer observations, and collaborative learning structures that build professional practice without relying heavily on substitutes or release time. Participants will examine practical models, scaffolds, and reflection structures that help teachers, especially newer educators, make sense of what they observe and translate it into instructional growth. Through structured discussion and collaborative idea-sharing, attendees will contribute their own experiences, challenges, and perspectives as the group collectively explores practical approaches for building sustainable, job-embedded professional learning within the realities and constraints of today’s schools.

Speakers

Rebecca Tilhou

Professional Learning Specialist, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Tatjana Roth

Elementary Science Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Kelli Bradshaw

Secondary Science Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

Partnerships With Purpose: A Playbook for School Leaders

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Strong community partnerships are intentional and align with the VBCPS strategic framework. This session provides school leaders with a practical, tiered framework for partner engagement supporting student achievement, wellbeing, real-world learning, and career exploration. Co-presented by the Partnerships and VBEF Coordinators, participants will explore the Partnership Continuum. Leaders will identify immediate, simple, strategic, and transformational commitments, leaving with clarity on available opportunities and a personalized action plan for fostering reciprocal partnerships.

Speakers

Bridget Mariano

Virginia Beach Education Foundation Coordinator, FACE Office

Jennifer McGowan

Partnership Coordinator, FACE Office

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility, Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students
Strand Team Up

10:45am EDT

Small Moments, Big Impact: Leading with Empathy to Build Staff Belonging

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

There is much talk in leadership about “building relationships” and creating “positive school climate” for our students and staff. But how do we actually DO that - authentically and consistently? In this interactive session, administrators will reflect on their own dimensions of diversity and consider how these shape their perspectives and interactions with others. We’ll move beyond sympathy to examine how interrupting the “Ladder of Inference” fosters authentic, human-centered leadership. Participants will analyze real-world staff scenarios and practice identifying internal triggers that test empathy. You will leave with actionable “handles” to maintain consistent kindness and regulated actions, ensuring your team feels seen, and valued.

Speakers

Adrienne Bracy

Admin Assistant - HS, First Colonial HS

Meredith Hobson

Coordinator of Opportunity and Achievement, Office of Opportunity and Achievement

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

10:45am EDT

The Calm After the Storm: Managing Threatening Situations

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

This session is designed to support members of school-based threat assessment teams with developing case management plans following a school threat. Participants will learn how to apply the STEP framework from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice to implement an integrated and holistic approach to case management. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in scenario-based activities.

Speakers

Robert Wnukowski

Parent and Stakeholder Services Coordinator, Department of School Leadership

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility, Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

Turn Up the Volume: Leveraging Student Voice to Elevate Instructional Clarity and Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

What if your students could show you exactly how to improve instruction, and you had a clear system to act on it? In this dynamic session, participants will dive into real student survey data, uncover actionable trends, and translate insights into consistent, high-impact classroom practices. Grounded in AVID-aligned strategies such as focused note-taking and structured processing, attendees will explore practical ways to increase clarity, engagement, and access for every learner. Participants will leave with tools, protocols, and a clear system to shift and elevate instruction and transform the trajectory of student outcomes.

Speakers

Veronica Ruiz

AVID Teacher, Salem HS

Dana Cho

Assistant Principal HS, Salem HS

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

Create, Move, Perform: Pathways to Future-Ready Learners

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Discover how Health and Physical Education, Performing Arts, and Visual Arts educators intentionally bring the VBCPS Future-Ready Profile to life in daily instruction. This session will highlight how school-based specialists embed Future-Ready attributes into authentic, student-centered learning experiences that promote rigor, empower student agency, and ensure students feel safe, known, and valued. Participants will explore practical examples of how specialists make Future-Ready attributes visible through classroom routines, instructional strategies, and the use of learning intentions and success criteria. Participants will leave with ideas for recognizing and extending Future-Ready practices across classrooms and school settings.

Speakers

Jason Stanley

Performing Arts Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Lei Dunn

K-12 Health and PE Instructional Specialis, Office of K-12 & Gifted Programs

Meredith Brookman

Fine Arts Coordinator, Office of K-12 & Gifted Programs

Amber Hester

Fine Arts Coordinator, Office of K-12 & Gifted Programs

Rebecca Davidson

Visual Arts Instructional Specialist, Office of K-12 & Gifted Programs

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Elementary and Middle School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

From Data to Action: Using WRS Reports to Lead Literacy for Every Student

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Every student in your building is on a literacy journey and now you can see the whole picture in one place. This session introduces elementary administrators to the newly developed (WRS) Report, a comprehensive report that brings together VALLSS screening data, NWEA MAP growth data, and SOL performance data into a single, actionable snapshot for every student in grades K–5. These data points have historically lived on separate reports and reviewed at separate times. The WRS Report changes that. This session will give school leaders the clarity, confidence, and concrete systems they need to move from data to action ensuring that every student, regardless of where they are on the reading continuum, is seen, supported, and growing.

Speakers

Martha Crawford

Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Robyn Cady

Early Literacy Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Abigail Dougherty

PreK-12 Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Elementary School Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

Foundations of Visible Learning: Success Criteria

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

This session makes the case that success criteria are more than a tool for teachers; they are a tool that puts learning in the hands of students. It establishes the distinction between learning intentions and success criteria and names the most common misalignments. Leaders will carry out the idea that when students have a specific and honest picture of what success looks like, they can begin to recognize their own gaps and take ownership of their learning.

Speakers

Mary Clifford

Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Meghan Mosher

Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Lorena Kelly

Executive Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready.
Strand Rise Up

10:45am EDT

From "Special Event" to Daily Standard: Coaching Sustainable Hands-On Science

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

This session equips coaches and leaders with a framework to help teachers overcome the barriers to inquiry-based learning. While experiencing the explore before explain model via a hands-on lab, participants will analyze a coaching model that integrates tech and gifted pedagogy to streamline logistics and reduce teacher workload. We will share how our approaches over the past several years are resulting in improved outcomes for our students. You will leave with a "coaching toolkit" designed to build teacher confidence, create a sustainable science lab structure, and empower staff to lead future-ready, hands-on science for every learner.

Speakers

Chad Huff

Instructional Technology Specialist, Corporate Landing ES

Jessie Comba

Gifted Teacher, Corporate Landing ES

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Build Up

10:45am EDT

Inspiring Impact in the Classroom: Bringing Co-Teaching and HQIM Reading Strategies to Life

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Discover two powerful reading strategies already embedded in your High Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) and see how to bring them to life in the everyday classroom through the lens of co-teaching. Watch us model co-teaching in action for an informational and literary text drawn directly from the curriculum. Walk away with two co-teaching models highlighting powerful reading strategies that work for all students, whether you're a classroom teacher, a co-teacher, or a leader looking to strengthen collaborative instruction.

Speakers

Alyson Szykuc

Special Education Coordinator, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children

Korrin Nash

Elementary Language Arts Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Marissa Robinson

Special Education Coordinator, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

Make Coaching Visible: Turning Instructional Coaching into a Strategic Leadership Asset

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Instructional coaching is often busy—but is it visible, strategic, and impactful? This interactive session helps coaches and school leaders move beyond one-to-one support and leverage coaching as a driver of schoolwide improvement. Grounded in Visible Learning, participants will explore how to shift from teacher clarity to student ownership of learning and use coaching cycles to spread high-impact practices. Through hands-on reflection and planning, attendees will audit current coaching structures, identify opportunities to support and amplify practice, and develop a practical plan to make coaching more visible and aligned to student outcomes. Walk away with clear next steps for immediate implementation.

Speakers

Megan Allen

Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

10:45am EDT

Progress with Purpose: Monitoring Behavior Change in MTSS, Elementary

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

This session focuses on writing high-quality, measurable behavior goals and effectively monitoring progress within an MTSS framework. Participants will learn how to develop goals that are specific, observable, and aligned with student needs. The session will also cover practical methods for collecting behavior data to track growth and guide instructional decisions. Emphasis will be placed on ensuring goals are actionable and progress monitoring is systematic, helping educators make informed adjustments to interventions. Attendees will leave with tools and strategies to strengthen both goal development and ongoing monitoring of behavior supports.

Speakers

Kelsey Jeffreys

Behavior Intervention Specialist, Office of Student Support Services

Andrea Curney

Coordinator of Behavior Intervention,, Office of Student Support Services

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

Shifting from Compliance to Ownership: Leading Inquiry-Based Science PLCs Through Clarity

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Discover how one school is using inquiry-based PLC cycles to shift science instruction from teacher compliance to authentic ownership. Through the lens of clarity and Visible Learning, this interactive session will explore how leaders supported teachers in implementing inquiry-based science and visible writing strategies that deepened student thinking and engagement. Participants will experience elements of the inquiry cycle, reflect on real challenges and successes, and leave with practical tools to launch or strengthen inquiry-focused PLCs in their own schools. Attendees will engage in collaborative processing activities, examine leadership moves that built teacher capacity, and walk away with actionable next steps for implementation.

Speakers

Alexandra Shea

Instructional Technology Specialist, Landstown ES

Allison Jordan

Principal ES, Landstown ES

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Rise Up

10:45am EDT

Unlocking the Power of a Word - Using Vocabulary for Reading and Writing Success

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

In this session, participants will explore the critical role vocabulary and oral language play in strengthening reading comprehension and developing effective writing skills. After learning how the brain stores vocabulary, we will highlight evidence-based strategies for promoting vocabulary acquisition, including approaches for morphology and processing content vocabulary. Strategies will support vocabulary growth for all populations. Participants will leave with practical tools to enhance students’ word knowledge, retention, and meaningful application across content areas. Administrators will examine how they can support consistent, evidence-based vocabulary practices across classrooms through instructional feedback, PLC conversations, and a shared vision for literacy instruction.

Speakers

Karen Kaas

Elementary Language Arts Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Nancye Flinn

Elementary Science Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

Bridging the Gap: Cultivating Respectful Dialogue Around Selective Participation with AI

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

While we have championed the selective and intentional use of AI in our high schools, we are now encountering a critical missing piece: the plan for hesitance. How do we support those who harbor deep-seated concerns? This session moves beyond the mechanics of implementation to explore the nuance of selective participation. School leaders will examine the diverse reasons why some students and teachers resist AI, from environmental ethics and data privacy to the preservation of creative integrity. Join us to discover how educators can facilitate respectful discourse that validates these concerns while providing high-quality, non-AI alternatives

Speakers

Sheila Teri

Instructional Technology Coordinator, Office of Instructional Technology

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

High School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

PLC by Design: Driving Achievement, Belonging and Collaboration

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

What does it take to move a PLC from compliance to true commitment? In this interactive session, explore a structured PLC model that drives collaboration, where teachers co-plan, refine instruction with coaching support, and lead meaningful PLC conversations. Participants will examine a practical planning document and PLC agenda aligned to data analysis, AVID strategies, Specially Designed Instruction (SDI), and gradual release. Through authentic examples and discussion, you’ll see how this approach builds teacher efficacy, streamlines workload, and improves student outcomes. Walk away with ready-to-use tools and a replicable system that drives instructional consistency, builds capacity, and fosters a strong sense of belonging among teachers.

Speakers

Jennifer Brobjorg

School Improvement Specialist, Lynnhaven MS/AAD HS

Dawn Kramer

Principal MS, Kempsville Middle School

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Middle School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Build Up

10:45am EDT

Leading AVID with Purpose: Navigating Your Leadership

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

This professional learning session is intentionally designed for deep thinking, reflection, and leadership dialogue grounded directly in What Great AVID Principals Do Differently by Brett Bowers. This session is suitable for principals, assistant principals and leadership teams and is built to move beyond compliance into ownership-oriented leadership practice. Participants will engage in structured reflection and peer-to-peer collaborative dialogue around key leadership practices from the text, examine how those practices connect to school culture and student success, and leave with actionable next steps for strengthening AVID implementation within their own school.

Speakers

Laura Wiley

AVID Coach, Department of School Leadership

Dr. James Smith

Senior Executive Director of Middle Schools, Department of School Leadership

Natalie Meiggs

Coordinator of Military Connection and Academic Support Programs, Office of Student Support Services

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Secondary Administrators (MS and HS)

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready., Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Rise Up

10:45am EDT

Progress with Purpose: Monitoring Behavior Change in MTSS, Secondary

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Speakers

Melody Cariello

School Counselor, Landstown HS

Pamela Mudway

Behavior Intervention Specialist, Office of Student Support Services

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Secondary Administrators (MS and HS)

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

10:45am EDT

The Data Whisperer’s Guide: Leading Teams from Confusion to Clarity

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

We know that data can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate it alone! And neither do your teachers. This session shares a collaborative framework for administrators, specialists, and teachers to work as a team so that PLC meetings can be functional and effective. We’ll explore how to aggregate data into simple, actionable fact sheets, as well as how to use data dashboards to drive PLC conversations. By streamlining the "how" of data analysis, we empower leadership teams to support their PLCs more effectively, ensuring that data-driven instruction feels like a shared win rather than a solo burden.

Speakers

Brittany Pirtle

Math Coach, Bayside HS

Devan Smith

Instructional Technology Specialist, Bayside HS

Samantha Wilson

Science Teacher, Bayside HS

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Secondary Attendees (MS and HS)

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Build Up

11:45am EDT

Lunch

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm EDT

All Attendees

1:00pm EDT

Just Enough Systems Thinking to Be Dangerous

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Speakers

Lisa Banicky

Executive Director, Department of Planning, Innovation and Accountability

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Rise Up

1:00pm EDT

Navigating Employee Issues with Confidence, Clarity, and Compliance

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Navigating employee issues requires both compliance knowledge and strong leadership practices. Led by HR Employee Relations and School Division Attorneys, this interactive session will help administrators build confidence in addressing employee concerns with clarity, consistency, and professionalism. Through real-world scenarios, guided policy walkthroughs, and documentation exercises, participants will strengthen their ability to navigate complex situations while fostering a professional culture where staff feel supported, respected, and connected to the division’s mission. Attendees will leave with practical tools to lead timely conversations, locate and apply policies effectively, and support positive working relationships within their schools and departments.

Speakers

Stephanie Enzmann

Director of Employee Relations, Department of Human Resources

Kamala Lannetti

School Board Attorney, Department of Legal Services

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff, Goal 5-Advance Organizational Excellence
Strand Rise Up

1:00pm EDT

App Central: Building Stronger Family Engagement through Clearer Communication Strategies

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Compass to 2030 calls us to partner with families to support students, but what can effective leaders do to help parents navigate the multitude of online platforms they're expected to use to stay engaged with their student's learning (ParentVUE, Canvas, Seesaw, ParentSquare, and list goes on and on...)? In this session, we’ll explore how leaders can leverage App Central to design and implement more coherent, schoolwide communication systems that reduce fragmentation and improve family access and engagement. Leaders will build capacity to decide and adapt communication materials best suited for their school community’s needs and foster stronger school-family partnerships and student success.

Speakers

Chanae Joyner

Social Media Manager, Department of Communications and Community Engagement

Tina Garfield

Family Outreach Representative, Office of Family and Community Engagement

David Schleck

Public Relations Coordinator, Department of Communications & Community Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students
Strand Team Up

1:00pm EDT

Belonging by Design: A.R.E. You Ready? Leadership Moves that Strengthen Staff Culture

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Strong school culture is built through relationships, connection, and trust. Using the A.R.E. (Accessible, Responsive, Engaged) visible thinking tool, this interactive session explores how leadership behaviors shape staff belonging and strengthen relational culture over time. Through rotating roundtable discussions, participants will use the tool to surface new ideas, as well as tensions and organizational realities that can unintentionally erode connection and belonging in schools. Leaders will reflect on practical ways to strengthen accessibility, responsiveness, and authentic engagement while learning from colleagues across the division and leave actionable ideas for building more connected, relational, and human-centered staff culture.

Speakers

Kelly Zimba

Professional Learning Coordinator, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Melinda Pezzella

Assistant Principal ES, Windsor Woods ES

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

1:00pm EDT

Belonging Is the New Leadership Superpower

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Think of someone on your staff who doesn't yet feel connected — to their colleagues, to the work, to the mission. Now ask: what is your leadership role in that? Belonging isn't a feel-good add-on — it's a strategic lever with an effect size of 0.48 on learning, stronger than most professional development. In this 60-minute session, administrators will explore Signature Practice #1, Classroom and School Climate, from the Illustrated Guide to Visible Learning. Veteran leaders will share how they are building a belonging culture in their schools and all participants will leave ready to implement a specific action that moves the needle on our SAA priority: every staff member feels known, supported, and connected to the mission.

Speakers

Paulette France

Professional Learning Coordinator, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Dr. Catrina Manigo

Principal ES, College Park ES

Dr. Katie Catania

Principal ES, Parkway ES

Dr. Shana Remian

Principal MS, Virginia Beach MS

Dr. Whitney Szoke

Principal MS, Larkspur MS

Dr. Leslie Ittner

Principal HS, Ocean Lakes HS

Ebony Cherry

Assistant Principal HS, Bayside HS

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

1:00pm EDT

Effective PLCs: Designing the Conditions for Collaborative Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

What does meaningful collaborative learning look like when teams are focused on improving student achievement? In this session, participants will use the Effective PLCs Tool to examine the difference between compliance-oriented meetings and collaborative practices grounded in inquiry, evidence, and collective responsibility for student learning. Through analysis, discussion, and application, leaders will strengthen their ability to recognize high-quality collaborative practice and identify the leadership actions that support productive team learning. Participants will leave with clearer look-fors for effective PLCs and practical strategies for strengthening instructional clarity, improving Tier 1 practices, and advancing student outcomes.

Speakers

Angelyn Berry

Professional Learning Coordinator, Professional Growth and Innovation (PGI)

Abigail Dougherty

PreK-12 Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Jennifer McGregor

Secondary Science Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

1:00pm EDT

The Power of Praise: Cultivating Culture and Belonging through Purposeful Peer Partnerships using the Praise Walk Framework

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

The Power of Praise transforms the traditional "walkthrough" into a joyful search for instructional bright spots and a culture of celebration. In this session, attendees will learn to facilitate cross-curricular "Praise Walks" that dissolve departmental barriers and build lasting professional alliances. Discover how witnessing great practices in a colleague’s room—regardless of content area—fosters a deep sense of belonging and collective pride. Informed by participant feedback and equipped with a turnkey toolkit, you’ll gain a non-evaluative framework to truly value your staff and cultivate a vibrant, collaborative school culture.

Speakers

Kelly Lepkowski

Gifted Teacher, Salem HS

Dr. Corey Bács

Assistant Principal HS, Salem HS

Sharon Byrd

APA Academy Coordinator, Salem HS

My leadership is grounded in the belief that creativity is not an enrichment — it is essential. I strive to build learning environments where artistic excellence, student voice, and meaningful reflection work together to shape both strong performers and thoughtful human beings... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

1:00pm EDT

Understanding & Utilizing VBCPS Mental Health Resources

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Mental health plays a vital role in student success. VBCPS offers a range of resources and supports to promote student well-being, early intervention, and crisis support. This session will help build staff awareness and confidence in identifying needs, making appropriate referrals, and connecting students and families to the right supports. Participants will engage in small group discussion and analyze scenarios that reflect common situations faced in schools.

Speakers

Martha Crawford

Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Towana Hunter

Instructional Specialist, Office of Student Support Services

Annie Chowns

School Counseling Services Coordinator, Office of Student Support Services

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility, Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

Unlocking Goal 4 Through Family Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

This interactive session equips school leaders with practical strategies to strengthen family and community engagement as a driver of Compass to 2030 Goal 4: Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students. Participants will explore the FACE Guide to Family Engagement, engage in a collaborative “Escape the Barriers” problem solving activity, and analyze real world challenges around communication, trust, equity, and access. Leaders will leave with a customized, ready to implement Family Engagement Action Plan aligned to their school’s needs and the 2026-27 Strategic Action Agenda.

Speakers

Contessa Magee

Family Outreach Representative, Office of Family and Community Engagement

Jacqueline Crawley Coleman

Family Outreach Representative, Office of Family and Community Engagement

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 4-Partner with Families and the Community to Support Students
Strand Team Up

1:00pm EDT

Beyond the Bookshelf: Maximizing Library Leadership for Student Impact

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

This session empowers administrators to leverage librarians as instructional catalysts for future-readiness. Discover how librarians serve as student-centered coaches, partnering with teachers to integrate media literacy, AI ethics, and advanced research skills. Participants will engage in collaborative dialogue to navigate misinformation and academic integrity in the AI era. Move from "resource management" to "strategic impact" by positioning your librarian as a leader who ensures every student excels as a critical, ethical digital citizen.

Speakers

Kelly Miller

Library Media Service Coordinator, Office of Instructional Technology

Courtney Porter

Library Media Specialist, First Colonial HS

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All School Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

Strengthening IEP Practices: Administrative Review and Feedback

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Administrators will grow and develop their skills as they identify key pieces in reviewing IEPS and providing meaningful feedback to teachers. This will support teachers in growing their ability to write a well-drafted IEP. Additionally, this session will enable administrators to support student growth by ensuring rigorous goals and identifying appropriate accommodations for students.

Speakers

Christine Drescher

Special Education Coordinator, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children

Mandi Cumpston

Special Education Coordinator, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

All School Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

Decoding Your School's CS Journey: Are You Prepared for Impact?

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

School leaders are essential in shifting Computer Science from a "special" to a core literacy. This session provides a high-level briefing on VBCPS’s latest CS initiatives and a showcase of high-quality resources developed through recent ACSE grants. Participants will step into their students' shoes through high-energy, unplugged activities—like Parson’s Problems and Sorting Networks—designed to demystify computational thinking, algorithms, and debugging. By experiencing the same strategies introduced to specialists this year, including hands-on work with Micro:bits, leaders will leave with clear connections for integrating CS across the curriculum.

Speakers

Sheila Teri

Instructional Technology Coordinator, Office of Instructional Technology

Charlie Hinsch

Instructional Technology Coordinator, Office of Instructional Technology

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Elementary and Middle School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

1:00pm EDT

Applying BIST Frameworks for School-Wide Impact

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Speakers

Nicole Keros

Principal ES, Thalia ES

Carolyn Barnes

Behavior Intervention Specialist, Office of Student Support Services

Kelsey Jeffreys

Behavior Intervention Specialist, Office of Student Support Services

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Elementary School Administrators

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

Beyond Prompts: Expanding Your Toolbox with Behaviors

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

When supporting students with intense social/emotional and behavioral needs, school administrators are often the "final responders" when student behaviors escalate beyond what staff can manage effectively. This session provides high-level, strategic practices designed specifically for principals and division leaders to support the management of crises with composure, empathy, and clarity.

Speakers

Alyson Szykuc

Special Education Coordinator, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children

Marissa Robinson

Special Education Coordinator, Office of Programs for Exceptional Children

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Rise Up

1:00pm EDT

Breaking the Silos: How Holland Elementary Built Impactful PLCs for Instructional Assistants

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

While Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) are a staple for certified staff, the essential "boots on the ground"—our Kindergarten and Special Education (SPED) Teacher Assistants (TAs)—are often left out of the collaborative loop. This session chronicles the 2025–2026 journey of Holland Elementary as we moved from "haphazard updates" to structured, data-driven PLCs for support staff. We will share the logistical blueprint for carving out time in a rigid elementary schedule, the specific frameworks used to empower TAs, and the measurable impact this shift had on student intervention and staff morale.

Speakers

Alainya Abdelkader

MTSS Coach, Office of Student Support Services

Beth Stone

Reading Specialist, Holland ES

Christina Cronauer

Title I Resource Teacher, Holland ES

Tara Brewer

Principal ES, Holland ES

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 3-Value and Invest in Staff
Strand Build Up

1:00pm EDT

Confident Readers, Courageous Learners

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

This session explores how educators can intentionally build students’ courage to learn by creating classroom conditions that support academic risk-taking. Participants will examine strategies such as building relational trust, designing appropriately challenging tasks, and providing incremental success criteria so students experience frequent success. Using the TIRES framework (Tasks, Input, Responses, Evidence, Success), educators will learn how to structure lessons that increase student participation, confidence, and resilience. Examples from elementary literacy and content classrooms will demonstrate how these practices help develop engaged, future-ready learners who feel empowered to take risks and persist in learning.

Speakers

Korrin Nash

Elementary Language Arts Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Leyla Caralivanos

Reading Specialist, John B. Dey ES

Tiffany Mack

Elementary Language Arts Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

Rethinking Rigor: A Schoolwide Journey to Deeper Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

This session explores how Trantwood Elementary developed and implemented a shared definition of rigor across classrooms. Participants will learn strategies to build staff buy-in, create a clear and actionable definition, and embed rigor into daily instruction. Practical tools and examples will support participants in applying this work within their own school contexts.

Speakers

Brooke Martinette

Instructional Technology Specialist, Trantwood ES

Janice Clark

Gifted Teacher, Trantwood ES

Sean Holleran

Principal ES, Trantwood ES

Stephanie Lopez

Assistant Principal ES, Trantwood ES

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

The Foundations of Visible Learning: Learning Intentions

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

This session takes on one of the most common misconceptions: that posting a learning target is the same as establishing a learning intention. It builds the case that a learning intention is not the setup for a task but a lens students carry through the entire learning experience and that when teachers genuinely work from one it changes how they plan, how they respond to students mid-lesson, and how they close a lesson. Leaders will leave with a clear framework for distinguishing strong learning intentions from task descriptions and tools that they can use immediately.

Speakers

Chad Gangwer

Coordinator of Elementary Social Studies, Department of Teaching and Learning

Lorena Kelly

Executive Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction, Department of Teaching and Learning

Robyn Cady

Early Literacy Coordinator, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Rise Up

1:00pm EDT

Vision to Action: Implementing and Sustaining Effective Mathematical Instructional Practices

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

This session supports administrators and math specialists in designing, implementing, and sustaining a shared vision for high-quality mathematics instruction over time. Using their school’s concept map, participants will refine and align a coherent math vision with the broader schoolwide vision, grounded in the 8 Effective Math Teaching Practices. Through collaborative planning, they will identify key structures, entry points, and indicators for scaling implementation over time and connecting vision to daily practice. Participants will also explore how this framework can strengthen instruction and coaching across all content areas. Administrators and math specialists are encouraged to attend together.

Speakers

Mary Clifford

Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Meghan Mosher

Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Elementary School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Build Up

1:00pm EDT

From Classroom to Credit: Creating Access and Success through CLEP

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Attendees will gain an actionable roadmap to launch or expand the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) program at their high school. We will walk through our implementation from technology setup to using Modern States modules for equitable preparation. Participants will engage in planning activities, explore tools, and leave with ready-to-use strategies to increase access, support academic growth, and create a pathway to college credit. We will show how our intentional systems remove barriers and promote academic achievement.

Speakers

Camile Peter

Technology Support Technician, First Colonial HS

Kirsten Burdsal

School Improvement Specialist, First Colonial HS

Laura Pettay

English Teacher, First Colonial HS

Melissa Disher

Coordinator, Legal Studies, First Colonial HS

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

High School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

From Separate to Synergized: Crafting Cross-Curricular Classes

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Explore how our school is designing cross-curricular learning experiences by intentionally pairing both core-level and AP level courses and aligning standards to deepen student understanding. This session focuses on the process: how teams identified meaningful course connections, collaborated to merge curricula, and built a shared vision for implementation. Participants will walk away with practical strategies, planning tools, and lessons learned to support their own cross-curricular work, whether just beginning or refining existing efforts. Join us to see how thoughtful design can create more cohesive, relevant learning experiences for students.

Speakers

Sebrina Lindsay-Law

Social Studies Teacher, Tallwood HS

Amber Daniel

Social Studies Teacher, Tallwood HS

Ashley Bergamino

Gifted Teacher, Tallwood HS

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

High School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

Thrive Time: Building a Schoolwide System for Academic Support, Enrichment, and Student Connection

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Middle schools face increasing demands to meet diverse academic needs while also supporting students’ social-emotional growth. This session, designed for administrators and instructional specialists, will highlight how our middle school designed and implemented Thrive Time, a daily, embedded block within the master schedule that provides structured academic intervention, enrichment opportunities, and relationship-building experiences for all students. Participants will learn how Thrive Time was developed as a schoolwide system rather than a standalone intervention. The session will walk through the foundational structures that ensure consistency and effectiveness across classrooms, including things like student-focused interventions, daily materials, choice boards, and school-wide AVID strategies.

Speakers

Autumn Harrison

Grade 7 English teacher, Great Neck MS

Cari Huffman

AVID Teacher, Great Neck MS

Jessica Carpenter

Instructional Technology Specialist, Great NecK MS

Briana Jennings

Assistant Principal MS, Great Neck MS

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Middle School Attendees

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

Leading AVID with Purpose: Navigating Your Leadership

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Speakers

Laura Wiley

AVID Coach, Department of School Leadership

Dr. James Smith

Senior Executive Director of Middle Schools, Department of School Leadership

Natalie Meiggs

Coordinator of Military Connection and Academic Support Programs, Office of Student Support Services

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Secondary Administrators (MS and HS)

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility

1:00pm EDT

The AI Advantage: Leading Meaningful Feedback in the Secondary Classroom

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Are your teachers struggling to provide timely, meaningful, and personalized feedback? This session explores how AI-driven platforms like Milo, NoRedInk, and Snorkl can transform the feedback loop. We’ll examine division-aligned strategies that ensure AI is used responsibly to enhance student mastery while saving teachers time. Discover how these tools provide actionable data and real-time support, and gain the vision needed to lead your staff in adopting AI practices that are both pedagogically sound and ethically grounded.

Speakers

Brandy Bertucci

Secondary Language Arts Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Shaylee Ryan

Secondary Math Instructional Specialist, Department of Teaching and Learning

Jennifer Clements

Instructional Technology Coordinator, Office of Instructional Technology

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Secondary Administrators (MS and HS)

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

THE HAND-OFF: Strengthening Partnerships Between Alternative and Comprehensive Schools

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Discover powerful strategies to help students successfully transition from alternative education settings back to comprehensive schools with confidence and support. This engaging session will explore best practices for creating smooth, student-centered transitions that promote academic success, positive behavior, and long-term growth. Participants will gain practical tools, collaborative strategies, and actionable insights to strengthen relationships, remove barriers, and ensure every student is positioned to thrive. Join us as we focus on building pathways that prepare all students to be future-ready.

Speakers

Anthony Smith

Director of Alternative Education, Renaissance Academy

Jeremy Cox

Assistant Principal HS, Renaissance Academy

Dennis Kelly Jr.

Assistant Principal HS, Renaissance Academy

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Secondary Administrators (MS and HS)

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready, Goal 2-Enhance Student Well-Being Resilience and Responsibility
Strand Lift Up

1:00pm EDT

Supporting High-Quality Instruction for English Learners: A Guide for School-Based Leaders

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

What does effective instruction for English learners (ELs) look and sound like in today’s classrooms? This session will focus on research-based instructional best practices that support language development and academic achievement for ELs across content areas. Participants will strengthen their ability to recognize these practices during classroom observations and walkthroughs, while also exploring how WIDA ACCESS scores and other student data can inform instructional decisions. Participants will receive practical tools to support teacher feedback, guide instructional improvement, and strengthen outcomes for English learners.

Speakers

Shannon Leonard

Instructional Specialist, Office of K-12 Programs and Gifted

Kathleen Cahoon-Newchock

English Language Learner Coordinator, Office of K-12 Progams and Gifted

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

Secondary Attendees (MS and HS)

Compass to 2030 Goal Goal 1-Challenge and Support Each Student to Excel and Be Future Ready
Strand Build Up

2:00pm EDT

Team Reflection

Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT

All Attendees

3:00pm EDT

Closing Session

Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

All Attendees