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Monday, July 13
 

8:00am CDT

AMSTI K-2 Choral Counting & Counting Collections
Monday July 13, 2026 8:00am - 11:00am CDT
This 3-hour session focuses on the development of an understanding of numbers, and
providing the foundation for understanding place value. Participants will participate in
counting routines and explore one-to-one correspondence, rote count sequence,
counting on, cardinality, subitizing, and their implications in K-5 mathematics
classrooms.
Presenters
avatar for Jennifer Fagerstrom

Jennifer Fagerstrom

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
I am passionate about building educator confidence, strengthening instructional systems, and ensuring all students experience meaningful mathematics learning. My career has progressed from classroom teacher to building-based math coach to multi-district mathematics specialist, giving... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 8:00am - 11:00am CDT
Room D - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

AMSTI K-5 Math Alabama Course of Study Training
Monday July 13, 2026 8:00am - 11:00am CDT
K-5 Mathematics Foundational Training session is a pre requisite for this session. This
3-hour session is a dive into the Alabama 2019 Course of Study: Mathematics where
participants will explore the conceptual framework of the ALCOS (four critical
components: Position Statements, Student Math Practices, Math Teaching Practices,
and the Alabama Content Standards). Participants will become familiar with the
structure of the ALCOS, discover themes and learning progressions, and uncover
connections and relationships between components that are critical for effective
elementary mathematics instruction.
Presenters
avatar for Candyce Tracy

Candyce Tracy

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Monday July 13, 2026 8:00am - 11:00am CDT
Room B - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

AMSTI K-5 Math Foundations Training
Monday July 13, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
This 1-day session is a prerequisite for AMSTI K-5 math content area trainings. It
focuses on an overview of pedagogical strategies, the student and teacher math
practices, and the power of collective teacher efficacy. Participants will analyze
evidence of student understanding to inform planning of next instructional steps.
Presenters
avatar for Brooke Love

Brooke Love

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Monday July 13, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
Room C - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

AMSTI NUMBERS 3-5 Fractions and Decimals (Day 1 of 3)
Monday July 13, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
*Note: If you enroll in this session, you must attend ALL 3 full days of the sessions to receive credit.

This 3-day module focuses on fractional equivalence, fraction magnitude, operations, and the connection between fractional and decimal representation, and operations with decimals. Days 1 and 2 will highlight fractions and day 3 will highlight decimals.
Presenters
AR

Andrea Robinson

AMSTI Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Position at Company ABC.
avatar for Becky Soumeillan

Becky Soumeillan

AMSTI Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Monday July 13, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
Room A - 9th Grade Academy

10:00am CDT

Sugar and Spice...Not Always Nice: Understanding and Addressing Relational Aggression in Girls
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This session provides school counselors, educators, and support staff with a practical understanding of relational aggression among girls, using key insights from the book, Queen Bees and Wannabes. Participants will explore the secret society of girls, how social dynamics, peer influence, and communication patterns impact behavior, and how adults can respond in ways that build connection, accountability, and healthy relationships.
Presenters
avatar for Sherry Rainbolt

Sherry Rainbolt

Prevention and Support Supervisor, Central Office Staff
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 254

10:00am CDT

General PowerSchool Q&A
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Get answers to your PowerSchool questions and learn how to make the most of its features.
Presenters
JM

Joseph Marshall

Enterprise Systems Professional, Other
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 32

10:00am CDT

PowerSchool SIS Basics / Tips and Tricks
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Learn the essentials and expert tips to navigate PowerSchool SIS efficiently.
Presenters
JM

Joseph Marshall

Enterprise Systems Professional, Other
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 28

10:00am CDT

MagicSchool Teacher Level 1: From First Login to First Win: Building a Strong MagicSchool Rollout for Back to School
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
New to MagicSchool? This beginner-friendly, level one training session for teachers is designed to help you hit the ground running. Learn how to use MagicSchool to quickly generate lesson plans, differentiate instruction, support diverse learners, and streamline everyday tasks. Walk away with simple, high-impact workflows you can use immediately—no prior experience required.
Presenters
avatar for Destinie Thomas

Destinie Thomas

PD & Community Specialist, MagicSchool
Destinie Thomas is a Professional Development and Community Specialist at MagicSchool, where she helps educators discover how AI can make teaching more joyful, efficient, and equitable. She has spent her career creating engaging learning experiences—whether coaching teachers, leading... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 92

10:00am CDT

Low Tech/Know Tech: Powerful Lessons Unplugged
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
When you KNOW tech, a powerful lesson doesn't have to be designed around a device! This session is intended to showcase low-tech and no-tech strategies that spark curiosity, plug into creativity, and power up engagement without sticking students behind a Chromebook. Sometimes, less really is more, and this session is intended to show you how with easy-to-implement ideas that are fun for both your students and you, the teacher!
Presenters
avatar for Jaime Tillman

Jaime Tillman

Curriculum Leader, Daphne Middle School
AA

Alyssa Abdeltif

Teacher, Baldwin Preparatory Academy
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 202

10:00am CDT

Every Student Engaged, Every Lesson--A Taste of Kagan Cooperative Learning
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 11:50am CDT
This session is a dynamic, hands-on session designed to give teachers, district leaders, and school leaders a firsthand look at the power of Kagan Cooperative Learning. Led by a certified Kagan trainer, participants will experience first-hand the power of structuring learning intentionally. Come learn how to transform student engagement by replacing Call On One with structures that engage EVERY learner.
Presenters
avatar for Aaron Diaz

Aaron Diaz

Director of Implementation Support, Kagan Publishing and Professional Development
Dr. Aaron Diaz has served as a bus driver, coach, teacher, assistant principal, and principal. He is passionate about improving pedagogy, teacher support, community engagement, relationshipbuilding, and strategic planning—especially through the use of Kagan Cooperative Learning... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 271

11:00am CDT

From IEP to Independence: Transition Assessments in the Digital Age
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Explore how technology can transform transition planning for secondary students with IEPs. This session highlights digital tools and strategies to conduct meaningful transition assessments, analyze results efficiently, and use data to empower students toward post-school success. Participants will leave with practical ideas to streamline assessments and enhance student engagement using technology.
Presenters
NC

Nancy Caruthers

Teacher, Robertsdale High School
CH

Cassondra Hardy

Special Education Inclusion for Eng 12 & Case Manager, Robertsdale High School
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 95

11:00am CDT

Unlock the Power of Kami
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Join us to discover how Kami empowers every learner by turning everyday lessons into interactive experiences. During this hands-on session, we will explore the tools together and learn how to easily enhance lessons you are already teaching in the classroom. You'll leave with ideas that will support students throughout the learning journey and make student engagement soar.
Presenters
avatar for Janet Burnett

Janet Burnett

Teacher Success Manager, Kami & Book Creator
Janet Burnett is a Teaching & Learning Coordinator for Kami and Book Creator, but also a lifelong educator.  With 28 years of experience in education as a teacher and Technology Specialist, she is passionate about helping teachers “power-up” daily lessons while bringing joy to... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 254

11:00am CDT

General PowerSchool Q&A
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Get answers to your PowerSchool questions and learn how to make the most of its features.
Presenters
JM

Joseph Marshall

Enterprise Systems Professional, Other
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 32

11:00am CDT

Unlocking the Reluctant Writer: Practical Strategies to Boost Secondary Students' Writing Craft
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Reluctant high school writers often shut down when facing an essay—blank-page panic, weak ideas, poor structure, or zero motivation for timed prompts. This session delivers practical, ready-to-use strategies to help even the poorest writers succeed.
Presenters
avatar for Patsy Brantley

Patsy Brantley

ESL teacher, Robertsdale High School
I LOVE what I get to do every day! I hold a Doctorate in Teacher Leader and National Board Certification in English as a New Language.
MD

Maria Diaz

EL Teacher, Robertsdale High
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 252

11:00am CDT

MagicSchool Teacher Level 2: Level Up Your AI-Powered Teaching
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Ready to go beyond the basics? In this Level 2 session, educators will deepen their use of MagicSchool to design more targeted instruction, refine differentiation, and create higher-quality materials with greater efficiency. Learn how to customize outputs, build reusable workflows, and apply MagicSchool across planning, assessment, and student support. Walk away with advanced strategies that elevate your practice and maximize impact in the classroom.
Presenters
avatar for Destinie Thomas

Destinie Thomas

PD & Community Specialist, MagicSchool
Destinie Thomas is a Professional Development and Community Specialist at MagicSchool, where she helps educators discover how AI can make teaching more joyful, efficient, and equitable. She has spent her career creating engaging learning experiences—whether coaching teachers, leading... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 92

11:00am CDT

PowerSchool SIS Incidents
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Manage and track student incidents with ease using Simple.
Presenters
avatar for Lance Lewis

Lance Lewis

Supervisor Registrar and SIS Operations, Other
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 28

11:00am CDT

K-6 Math Evidence Based Practice #1: Systematic Instruction
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 12:50pm CDT
Join the the Office of Mathematics Improvement to take a dive into Evidence Based Practice #1, Systematic Instruction. Unlock the power of Systematic Instruction! Learn how clear goals, sequenced steps, scaffolds, and timely feedback boost student success. Walk away with practical tools and fresh ideas to energize your teaching!
Presenters
avatar for Connie Arnold

Connie Arnold

OMI Region 10 Coordinator, Office of Mathematics Improvement
Connie Arnold is the Regional Coordinator for the Office of Mathematics Improvement (OMI) at the Alabama State Department of Education. With over 15 years of experience in education, she has served as a classroom teacher, librarian, and Secondary Math Specialist with the Alabama... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 12:50pm CDT
Room 270

12:00pm CDT

Smart, Strategic, Intentional: Using CERT to Drive ACT Success
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Discover how to use CERT strategically, not just as an assessment tool, but as a powerful resource for driving intentional instruction, targeted remediation, and meaningful ACT growth. In this session, high school teachers and leaders will explore practical ways to leverage key CERT features, reports, and student supports to strengthen classroom instruction, inform PLC conversations, and promote student ownership of learning. Walk away with actionable ideas and practical strategies.
Presenters
avatar for Lauren Lavender

Lauren Lavender

ACT AIM Presenter, ACT AIM
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 17

12:00pm CDT

7 Challenges that Showcase STEM in the Middle Grades (4-8)
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Discover seven classroom-tested STEM missions designed to shift students from passive observers to active problem-solvers with minimal setup and maximum curiosity. In this session focused on middle grades (4-8) learning, participants will explore and adapt 7 ready-to-implement STEM challenges that directly connect math/science concepts to Alabama's new 2025 Digital Literacy & Computer Science (DLCS) Standards. These intentionally designed student activities promote collaboration and build skills like computational thinking, iterative processing, and real-world application of learning. This session will include time for unpacking grade level standards to make meaningful connections, trying out STEM challenges that increase student engagement, and collaborating on how to customize a STEM experience that lets students apply their math, science and engineering skills.
Presenters
avatar for Timothy Johnson

Timothy Johnson

Regional Technology Specialist, Alabama Technology in Motion, Region 10
avatar for Angela Clark

Angela Clark

Regional Technology Specialist, Alabama Technology in Motion, Region 7
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 254

12:00pm CDT

AMSTI 3-5 Counting Collections and Choral Counting
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
In this ½ day session participants will discuss the importance of counting and how fundamental it is to learning mathematics in elementary school. It is the basis upon which operations with whole numbers, estimation, and algebraic thinking build. Through the powerful instructional routines of Choral Counting and Counting Collections,
students are engaged in rich mathematics, which can be utilized to pursue a broad range of mathematical goals throughout the upper grades in elementary school. By increasing the magnitude of the counting collection or by including packaged items, students can explore several mathematical concepts and develop a deep, conceptual understanding of quantity. The math routines in this professional learning are tailored for grades 3-5.
Presenters
avatar for Jennifer Fagerstrom

Jennifer Fagerstrom

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
I am passionate about building educator confidence, strengthening instructional systems, and ensuring all students experience meaningful mathematics learning. My career has progressed from classroom teacher to building-based math coach to multi-district mathematics specialist, giving... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Room D - 9th Grade Academy

12:00pm CDT

AMSTI K-5 Math Alabama Course of Study Training
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
K-5 Mathematics Foundational Training session is a pre requisite for this session. This
3-hour session is a dive into the Alabama 2019 Course of Study: Mathematics where
participants will explore the conceptual framework of the ALCOS (four critical
components: Position Statements, Student Math Practices, Math Teaching Practices,
and the Alabama Content Standards). Participants will become familiar with the
structure of the ALCOS, discover themes and learning progressions, and uncover
connections and relationships between components that are critical for effective
elementary mathematics instruction.
Presenters
avatar for Candyce Tracy

Candyce Tracy

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Room B - 9th Grade Academy

1:00pm CDT

Section 504 101: From Questions to Confidence
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
This training will cover the purpose of Section 504, eligibility criteria, and the process for identifying, evaluating, and supporting students with disabilities.By the end of the training, coordinators and administrators will feel more confident navigating the 504 process and supporting staff, students, and families. 📚
Presenters
avatar for Dionne Dunton

Dionne Dunton

Supervisor, Central Office Staff
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 93

1:00pm CDT

Fantastic 5-Minute Tips Ready to Use in Your Classroom!
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Looking for some simple, effective strategies and routines that will enhance your classroom during the upcoming school year? Did you know that eMINTS has a ton of free tips, resources and strategy cards on various topics including technology integration, building classroom culture, and using reflective practice with students? Come experience the tips live and in person, and then feel free to use them all year long!
Presenters
avatar for Haylee Anderson

Haylee Anderson

Instructional Specialist, eMINTS National Center
Haylee Anderson is currently an instructional specialist with eMINTS National Center. She has previously been a high school English and Spanish and a middle school ELA educator in Missouri. Her family is the most important thing in the world to her. She lives in Southwest Missouri... Read More →
avatar for Doug Caldwell

Doug Caldwell

Instructional Specialist, eMINTS
Inspiring education with digital learning!
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 214

1:00pm CDT

One Screen to Run the Room: Engagement and Management Made Simple
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Managing transitions, attention, and pacing can make or break a lesson. Classroom Screen provides a simple digital solution for timers, directions, grouping tools, and engagement supports. In this session, teachers will learn how to streamline routines, increase student independence, and create visually structured learning environments.
Presenters
avatar for Stacey Tatum

Stacey Tatum

6th Grade Science/Social Studies, Elberta Elementary
Hello! My name is Stacey Tatum, and I am a 6th Grade Science and Social Studies teacher at Elberta Elementary School. This year marks my first year teaching 6th grade after spending several years in 3rd grade, where I developed a deep passion for understanding how students learn to... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 16

1:00pm CDT

General PowerSchool Q&A
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Get answers to your PowerSchool questions and learn how to make the most of its features.
Presenters
JM

Joseph Marshall

Enterprise Systems Professional, Other
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 32

1:00pm CDT

PowerSchool SIS Reporting and SubReports
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Dive into reporting features to gather valuable insights from PowerSchool SIS data.
Presenters
WW

William Waldrop

Enterprise Systems Professional, Other
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 28

1:00pm CDT

MagicSchool Student Level 1: Getting Started with AI for Learning
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
New to MagicStudent? This introductory session helps students and educators understand how to use AI as a tool for learning, not shortcuts. Explore how MagicStudent can support brainstorming, studying, writing, and organization while promoting responsible and ethical use. Walk away with simple, practical ways to help students build confidence, stay engaged, and use AI to enhance—not replace—their thinking.
Presenters
avatar for Destinie Thomas

Destinie Thomas

PD & Community Specialist, MagicSchool
Destinie Thomas is a Professional Development and Community Specialist at MagicSchool, where she helps educators discover how AI can make teaching more joyful, efficient, and equitable. She has spent her career creating engaging learning experiences—whether coaching teachers, leading... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 92

1:00pm CDT

Teach Smarter, Not Harder: Curriculum‑Aligned Content with Discovery Education
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Discover how Discovery Education simplifies planning with ready‑to‑use, standards‑aligned videos, activities, and lesson supports across all subjects K-12. Walk away with resources you can teach with tomorrow.
Presenters
avatar for Tomi Rush

Tomi Rush

Sr. Partner Success Manager, Discovery Education
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 255

1:00pm CDT

Every Student Engaged, Every Lesson--A Taste of Kagan Cooperative Learning
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
This session is a dynamic, hands-on session designed to give teachers, district leaders, and school leaders a firsthand look at the power of Kagan Cooperative Learning. Led by a certified Kagan trainer, participants will experience first-hand the power of structuring learning intentionally. Come learn how to transform student engagement by replacing Call On One with structures that engage EVERY learner.
Presenters
avatar for Aaron Diaz

Aaron Diaz

Director of Implementation Support, Kagan Publishing and Professional Development
Dr. Aaron Diaz has served as a bus driver, coach, teacher, assistant principal, and principal. He is passionate about improving pedagogy, teacher support, community engagement, relationshipbuilding, and strategic planning—especially through the use of Kagan Cooperative Learning... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 271

1:00pm CDT

Illuminated Learning: Engaging Students with Blacklight Activities
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
In this interactive workshop, educators will discover how blacklight activities can boost student engagement across subjects.
Learn the science behind UV light, explore creative lesson ideas, and see hands-on demos with fluorescent materials, invisible ink, and glow-in-the-dark elements.
After exploring classroom applications, participants will take part in a printmaking activity under blacklight and experiment with a variety of fluorescent and neon art materials.
Teachers will leave with practical, ready-to-use strategies, along with a product list and links to all materials used in the workshop.
Presenters
avatar for Joyce Garrison

Joyce Garrison

teacher, Rosinton Elementary
Hello!I am excited to be returning to GRITC as a presenter!
I graduated with my bachelors of fine art and master's of education from the University of Montevallo, which is located in Montevallo, AL.
I am married and we live in Loxley. I teach elementary art and I absolutely love it... Read More →
avatar for Nancy Timmons

Nancy Timmons

Middle School Art Teacher, Central Baldwin Middle
I have been teaching visual arts in Baldwin County for seven years, working with students from Pre-K through 8th grade. I studied art, religion, and philosophy at the University of West Florida and currently teach 8th grade art, where I enjoy blending creative skill-building with... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 45 - Art Room

1:00pm CDT

Executive Functioning-Why we act like we do!!!
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
This session will provide an in-depth training on Executive Functioning to better understand why students act like they do and how we can support positive changes.
Presenters
LA

Leigh Anne McPherson

Spec Ed Supervisor, Central Office Staff
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 202

1:00pm CDT

K-6 Math Evidence Based Practice #2: Multimodal Instruction
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Join the the Office of Mathematics Improvement to take a dive into Evidence Based Practice #1, Multimodal Instruction. Make math meaningful with Multimodal Instruction! Use hands-on tools, visuals, symbols, and talk to support all learners. Help students deepen their understanding and apply math in real-world ways.
Presenters
avatar for Connie Arnold

Connie Arnold

OMI Region 10 Coordinator, Office of Mathematics Improvement
Connie Arnold is the Regional Coordinator for the Office of Mathematics Improvement (OMI) at the Alabama State Department of Education. With over 15 years of experience in education, she has served as a classroom teacher, librarian, and Secondary Math Specialist with the Alabama... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 270

2:00pm CDT

Basics to Breakthroughs: Designing intentional learning with Kami
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Join us to explore how to strategically leverage Kami’s features to create highly engaging, personalized learning experiences. In this hands-on session, you will learn to create custom content scaffolding and provide critical, in-the-moment student support. We will discuss how to use Kami tools to tailor the environment for every learner. You’ll leave with a versatile toolkit of instructional strategies and a proven roadmap for fostering student independence.
Presenters
avatar for Janet Burnett

Janet Burnett

Teacher Success Manager, Kami & Book Creator
Janet Burnett is a Teaching & Learning Coordinator for Kami and Book Creator, but also a lifelong educator.  With 28 years of experience in education as a teacher and Technology Specialist, she is passionate about helping teachers “power-up” daily lessons while bringing joy to... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 254

2:00pm CDT

SIS - Searchbar Tips and Tricks
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Dive into Seachbar and Multiselect features to gather valuable insights from PowerSchool SIS data.
Presenters
TS

Tabitha Syde

Utility Registrar, Other
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 28

2:00pm CDT

MagicSchool Student Level 2: Deeper Learning with AI-Powered Support
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Take student learning to the next level with MagicStudent. In this session, participants will explore more advanced ways students can use AI to strengthen critical thinking, refine writing, and engage in meaningful problem-solving. Learn how to guide students in using AI for feedback, revision, and deeper understanding—while reinforcing academic integrity. Walk away with practical strategies to help students use MagicStudent as a true learning partner.
Presenters
avatar for Destinie Thomas

Destinie Thomas

PD & Community Specialist, MagicSchool
Destinie Thomas is a Professional Development and Community Specialist at MagicSchool, where she helps educators discover how AI can make teaching more joyful, efficient, and equitable. She has spent her career creating engaging learning experiences—whether coaching teachers, leading... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 92
 
Tuesday, July 14
 

8:00am CDT

AMSTI 4-5 NUMBERS: Decimals (Completion of Day 3)
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
**Note: This session is a second part to the 4-5 AMSTI NUMBERS Fractions and Decimals sessions that were offered during the school year. Since those sessions did not get to the decimals component, this session will focus on decimals.

This 1 day module focuses on the connection between fractional and decimal representations and operations with decimals.
Presenters
avatar for Candyce Tracy

Candyce Tracy

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
avatar for Kristi Ellard

Kristi Ellard

AMSTI K-5 Math Specialist, AMSTI

Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
Room B - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

AMSTI K-2 Geometry
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
**Note: AMSTI Math Foundations Training (K-5 or 6-12) is a REQUIRED prerequisite to be able to attend and participate in this course.

This one-day session focuses on identifying, analyzing, composing, and decomposing
shapes and laying the foundation for early fractional reasoning in K-2. Participants will
learn that geometry in K-2 is much more than identifying shapes as they explore the
learning progressions related to geometric reasoning, discover the power of purposeful
geometry experiences in the classroom, discuss strategies to incorporate geometry
into the full academic year, and analyze evidence of students understanding to inform
planning of next instructional steps.
Presenters
avatar for Brooke Love

Brooke Love

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
Room C - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

AMSTI K-5 Math Foundations Training
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
This 1-day session is a prerequisite for AMSTI K-5 math content area trainings. It
focuses on an overview of pedagogical strategies, the student and teacher math
practices, and the power of collective teacher efficacy. Participants will analyze
evidence of student understanding to inform planning of next instructional steps.
Presenters
avatar for Jaymie Gregg

Jaymie Gregg

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
Room D - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

AMSTI NUMBERS 3-5 Fractions and Decimals (Day 2 of 3)
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
*Note: If you enroll in this session, you must attend ALL 3 full days of the sessions to receive credit.

This 3-day module focuses on fractional equivalence, fraction magnitude, operations, and the connection between fractional and decimal representation, and operations with decimals. Days 1 and 2 will highlight fractions and day 3 will highlight decimals.
Presenters
AR

Andrea Robinson

AMSTI Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Position at Company ABC.
avatar for Becky Soumeillan

Becky Soumeillan

AMSTI Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
Room A - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

ACT AIM Reading Training (Pre-Registered Participants ONLY)
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:30pm CDT
ACT AIM Reading Training (2 days- Pre-Registered Participants ONLY)
Presenters
Tuesday July 14, 2026 8:00am - 3:30pm CDT
Room G - 9th Grade Academy

9:00am CDT

Practical AI for Educators: Enhancing Instruction, Feedback, and Efficiency Without Losing the Human Touch
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming education, but many educators remain unsure how to use AI tools ethically, effectively, and confidently in their daily practice. This session provides a practical, educator‑centered introduction to using AI as a support—not a replacement—for teaching and learning.
Participants will explore real classroom examples of how AI tools such as generative text assistants can be used to streamline lesson planning, personalize feedback, differentiate instruction, and support student engagement while maintaining academic integrity. The session also addresses common concerns, including ethical use, bias, transparency, and appropriate classroom boundaries.
Designed for educators at any experience level with AI, this session emphasizes hands‑on strategies that can be implemented immediately. Attendees will leave with concrete prompts, workflow ideas, and guidance for introducing AI responsibly to students.
Presenters
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 206

9:00am CDT

Getting Started with Progress Learning
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This will be an introductory session to learn how to create and manage your classes, assessments, and assignments. We’ll give you a tour of our mature secondary student dashboard. You’ll also learn about our variety of reports to monitor student progress and maximize student achievement.
Presenters
avatar for Becca Baker

Becca Baker

Training Manager, Progress Learning
Becca was an elementary teacher for 10 years before joining Progress Learning. She taught 4th and 5th-grade math and science in the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX area. She joined Progress Learning in 2021 as a Program Trainer and has led the team since 2023.
GU

Gabriella Unanue

Program Trainer, Progress Learning

Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 202

9:00am CDT

You Can't Teach A Nervous System That's On Fire: Understanding Student Dysregulation in the Age of Social Media
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Something has shifted in our classrooms. Educators across grade levels and subject areas are reporting the same thing: students who cannot focus, cannot regulate, cannot tolerate uncertainty, and cannot connect the way they once could. And most professional development has responded by adding more — more curriculum, more programs, more policy, more things for already-exhausted educators to implement.

This session takes a different approach entirely.

You Can't Teach a Nervous System That's On Fire is a deep, honest, and surprisingly hopeful look at what is actually happening to the students sitting in our classrooms — through the lens of neuroscience, social media research, and the realities of growing up in an era of unprecedented collective overwhelm.

Participants will leave with:

A clear, accessible understanding of how chronic social media consumption is affecting the adolescent nervous system

The ability to recognize and reframe specific student behaviors through a neurological lens — transforming how they see and respond to their most challenging students

Practical, evidence-informed strategies to support student regulation that require no new budget and no additional programs

Language and tools to share with parents navigating these same challenges at home

This is not a session about blaming phones, diagnosing students, or adding to anyone's workload. It is a session about understanding — because when you truly understand what you are looking at, everything about how you show up changes.

And that changes what is possible in the room.
Presenters
avatar for Kristi Bush

Kristi Bush

Keynote Speaker, Social Media Safety Educator, KNB Communications
Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 20 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Library

9:00am CDT

ParentSquare - Level Up Your Communication: Going Above and Beyond with Family Engagement
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Ready to boost your family's engagement and excitement? In this interactive session, we’ll show you how to streamline communication and boost family engagement using Groups, Post Add-Ons, and Appointment Sign-Ups. Walk away with simple, powerful tools to connect with families and staff—without adding more to your plate.
Presenters
avatar for Scott Hardison

Scott Hardison

Training Specialist, ParentSquare
I am a Training Specialist at ParentSquare. My role is to educate ParentSquare customers on how to best utilize the product for effective school-to-home communication.
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 252

9:00am CDT

Interact Differently: Reimagining Teaching with Interactive Displays & Digital Signage
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Today’s classrooms require more than just a display — they require tools that actively engage students, support teachers, and create more dynamic learning environments. In this session, educators will explore how interactive displays and digital signage can transform the way teaching and learning happen in the classroom and across campus. Attendees will walk away with practical tips, creative classroom use cases, and simple strategies for using built-in tools from Clear Touch to increase collaboration, participation, and instructional impact.
Presenters
avatar for Madison  Hunt

Madison Hunt

Account Manager, Clear Touch

Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 93

9:00am CDT

General PowerSchool Q&A
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Get answers to your PowerSchool questions and learn how to make the most of its features.
Presenters
JM

Joseph Marshall

Enterprise Systems Professional, Other
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 32

9:00am CDT

PowerSchool SIS Basics / Tips and Tricks
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Learn the essentials and expert tips to navigate PowerSchool SIS efficiently.
Presenters
JM

Joseph Marshall

Enterprise Systems Professional, Other
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 28

9:00am CDT

MagicSchool Teacher Level 2: Level Up Your AI-Powered Teaching
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Ready to go beyond the basics? In this Level 2 session, educators will deepen their use of MagicSchool to design more targeted instruction, refine differentiation, and create higher-quality materials with greater efficiency. Learn how to customize outputs, build reusable workflows, and apply MagicSchool across planning, assessment, and student support. Walk away with advanced strategies that elevate your practice and maximize impact in the classroom.
Presenters
avatar for Destinie Thomas

Destinie Thomas

PD & Community Specialist, MagicSchool
Destinie Thomas is a Professional Development and Community Specialist at MagicSchool, where she helps educators discover how AI can make teaching more joyful, efficient, and equitable. She has spent her career creating engaging learning experiences—whether coaching teachers, leading... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 92

9:00am CDT

Teach Smarter, Not Harder: Curriculum‑Aligned Content with Discovery Education
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Discover how Discovery Education simplifies planning with ready‑to‑use, standards‑aligned videos, activities, and lesson supports across all subjects K-12. Walk away with resources you can teach with tomorrow.
Presenters
avatar for Tomi Rush

Tomi Rush

Sr. Partner Success Manager, Discovery Education
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 255

9:00am CDT

Intro to Google Classroom
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
This session will introduce the features and functions of Google Classroom. Participants will have the opportunity to follow along and get started creating their own digital environments.
Presenters
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 96

9:00am CDT

K-6 Math Evidence Based Practice #3: Mathematical Language
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:50am CDT
Join the the Office of Mathematics Improvement to take a dive into Evidence Based Practice #3, Mathematical Language. Build math language & understanding! Learn how to use visuals, manipulatives, and rich discourse to boost comprehension and confidence. Walk away with ready-to-use strategies to make math meaningful and accessible for all learners.
Presenters
avatar for Connie Arnold

Connie Arnold

OMI Region 10 Coordinator, Office of Mathematics Improvement
Connie Arnold is the Regional Coordinator for the Office of Mathematics Improvement (OMI) at the Alabama State Department of Education. With over 15 years of experience in education, she has served as a classroom teacher, librarian, and Secondary Math Specialist with the Alabama... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 9:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 270

10:00am CDT

Nurturing Norms: Crafting Classroom Community with Confidence
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This session empowers educators to create structured yet flexible classroom environments by providing a comprehensive understanding of classroom norms. Through interactive and practical activities, participants will explore the what, why, and how of norm-setting, fostering a positive learning atmosphere that enhances student engagement and academic success. The hands-on approach ensures that educators leave with actionable strategies ready for immediate application in their educational settings.
Presenters
avatar for Haylee Anderson

Haylee Anderson

Instructional Specialist, eMINTS National Center
Haylee Anderson is currently an instructional specialist with eMINTS National Center. She has previously been a high school English and Spanish and a middle school ELA educator in Missouri. Her family is the most important thing in the world to her. She lives in Southwest Missouri... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 214

10:00am CDT

ParentSquare - Level Up Your Communication: Going Above and Beyond with Family Engagement
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Ready to boost your family's engagement and excitement? In this interactive session, we’ll show you how to streamline communication and boost family engagement using Groups, Post Add-Ons, and Appointment Sign-Ups. Walk away with simple, powerful tools to connect with families and staff—without adding more to your plate.
Presenters
avatar for Scott Hardison

Scott Hardison

Training Specialist, ParentSquare
I am a Training Specialist at ParentSquare. My role is to educate ParentSquare customers on how to best utilize the product for effective school-to-home communication.
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 252

10:00am CDT

General PowerSchool Q&A
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Get answers to your PowerSchool questions and learn how to make the most of its features.
Presenters
JM

Joseph Marshall

Enterprise Systems Professional, Other
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 32

10:00am CDT

MagicSchool Teacher Level 3: Transform Your Practice with Advanced AI Workflows
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Take your MagicSchool expertise to the next level. In this advanced session, educators will learn how to build and refine powerful, repeatable workflows that drive deeper learning, personalization, and efficiency across their practice. Explore strategic use cases for data-informed instruction, complex differentiation, and cross-role collaboration. Walk away ready to lead, model, and scale high-impact MagicSchool use across your school or district.
Presenters
avatar for Destinie Thomas

Destinie Thomas

PD & Community Specialist, MagicSchool
Destinie Thomas is a Professional Development and Community Specialist at MagicSchool, where she helps educators discover how AI can make teaching more joyful, efficient, and equitable. She has spent her career creating engaging learning experiences—whether coaching teachers, leading... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 92

10:00am CDT

Google Gemini: Your Classroom Assistant
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Dive into the features of Google Gemini, an AI chatbot that can help you create plans, assist in designing instruction, and customize your bot to meet your needs.
Presenters
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 96

10:00am CDT

PowerSchool SIS Incidents
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Manage and track student incidents with ease using Simple.
Presenters
avatar for Lance Lewis

Lance Lewis

Supervisor Registrar and SIS Operations, Other
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 28

10:00am CDT

The Teacher’s Spellbook: Google Scripts + Gemini Edition
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Step into The Teacher’s Spellbook and discover how to transform your daily tasks into automated “magic” using Google Apps Script and Google Gemini. This session is designed for educators with little to no coding experience who want to save time, reduce repetitive work, and streamline classroom and administrative workflows.

Participants will explore how Google tools like Sheets, Forms, and Slides can be enhanced with simple scripts to automate tasks such as sending emails, organizing data, generating reports, and creating presentations. The real “cheat code” of the session is learning how to use Google Gemini to write these scripts—no coding background required.

Through real-world examples, including large-scale event management and classroom applications, attendees will leave with practical strategies, ready-to-use prompts, and the confidence to begin automating their own workflows immediately.
Presenters
avatar for Miranda Mosley

Miranda Mosley

Instructional Technology Resource Teacher, MCPSS
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 3

10:00am CDT

Tie Dye - Good Vibes
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:50am CDT
Learn to Tie Dye! Make and take your very own original tie dye!
This is great session for teacher teams, field trips, clubs, field day grade colors, or just a reward for the students you love!
Tie-Dye a class or the whole school!
We will show you how easy it is to set up and have PEACE that it's something everyone can accomplish with fun success!!

Please bring ONE 100% cotton T-shirt and drop in the bucket of solution that morning before you go to the other wonderful sessions,
so it will be ready for you to create your colorful creation!
Presenters
avatar for Joyce Garrison

Joyce Garrison

teacher, Rosinton Elementary
Hello!I am excited to be returning to GRITC as a presenter!
I graduated with my bachelors of fine art and master's of education from the University of Montevallo, which is located in Montevallo, AL.
I am married and we live in Loxley. I teach elementary art and I absolutely love it... Read More →
avatar for Nancy Timmons

Nancy Timmons

Middle School Art Teacher, Central Baldwin Middle
I have been teaching visual arts in Baldwin County for seven years, working with students from Pre-K through 8th grade. I studied art, religion, and philosophy at the University of West Florida and currently teach 8th grade art, where I enjoy blending creative skill-building with... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 45 - Art Room

11:00am CDT

Practical AI for Educators: Enhancing Instruction, Feedback, and Efficiency Without Losing the Human Touch
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming education, but many educators remain unsure how to use AI tools ethically, effectively, and confidently in their daily practice. This session provides a practical, educator‑centered introduction to using AI as a support—not a replacement—for teaching and learning.
Participants will explore real classroom examples of how AI tools such as generative text assistants can be used to streamline lesson planning, personalize feedback, differentiate instruction, and support student engagement while maintaining academic integrity. The session also addresses common concerns, including ethical use, bias, transparency, and appropriate classroom boundaries.
Designed for educators at any experience level with AI, this session emphasizes hands‑on strategies that can be implemented immediately. Attendees will leave with concrete prompts, workflow ideas, and guidance for introducing AI responsibly to students.
Presenters
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 206

11:00am CDT

5 Ways to Get Students Involved in a Cooperative Team
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Using cooperative learning in the classroom can be a challenge! Let’s break this down and discuss specific steps and examples that keep team members involved and working positively towards your lesson goals.
Presenters
avatar for Doug Caldwell

Doug Caldwell

Instructional Specialist, eMINTS
Inspiring education with digital learning!
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 214

11:00am CDT

PowerSchool SIS Reporting and SubReports
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Dive into reporting features to gather valuable insights from PowerSchool SIS data.
Presenters
WW

William Waldrop

Enterprise Systems Professional, Other
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 28

11:00am CDT

K-6 Math Evidence Based Practice #4: Assessment and Feedback
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 12:50pm CDT
Join the the Office of Mathematics Improvement to take a dive into Evidence Based Practice #4, Assessment and Feedback. Turn feedback into a game-changer! Learn how to use it as a tool for student ownership, motivation, and growth. Walk away with strategies to make feedback meaningful and impactful in your classroom.
Presenters
avatar for Connie Arnold

Connie Arnold

OMI Region 10 Coordinator, Office of Mathematics Improvement
Connie Arnold is the Regional Coordinator for the Office of Mathematics Improvement (OMI) at the Alabama State Department of Education. With over 15 years of experience in education, she has served as a classroom teacher, librarian, and Secondary Math Specialist with the Alabama... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 12:50pm CDT
Room 270

12:00pm CDT

Taking the Mystery Out of Executive Function
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Learn to identify specific executive function skills and how they influence academic, behavioral, and social development in children and young adults. Leave with practical activities you can implement in the classroom to bolster students’ executive function skills!
Presenters
CJ

Chaelah Jenkins

Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Advanced Behavioral and Educational Consulting, LLC
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 267

12:00pm CDT

Sugar and Spice...Not Always Nice: Understanding and Addressing Relational Aggression in Girls
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
This session provides school counselors, educators, and support staff with a practical understanding of relational aggression among girls, using key insights from the book, Queen Bees and Wannabes. Participants will explore the secret society of girls, how social dynamics, peer influence, and communication patterns impact behavior, and how adults can respond in ways that build connection, accountability, and healthy relationships.
Presenters
avatar for Sherry Rainbolt

Sherry Rainbolt

Prevention and Support Supervisor, Central Office Staff
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 254

12:00pm CDT

Collaboration over Chaos: Simple Systems for Powerful Group Leanring
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Effective collaboration does not happen by chance — it is intentionally designed through structured routines, purposeful tasks, and a classroom culture that values student thinking.

Participants will experience collaborative structures from a learner perspective and examine practical systems that support productive group work, including flexible grouping methods, role development, formative monitoring strategies, and reflection protocols.
Presenters
avatar for Annie Freeman

Annie Freeman

Curriculum Leader, Robertsdale High School
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 16

12:00pm CDT

Big Feelings, Big Behaviors: Helping Students Reset in K–6
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Big feelings. Big behaviors. Real solutions.

If you’ve ever felt your classroom shift in seconds from calm to chaos, this session is for you. Join us for an energizing, no-fluff deep dive into how to confidently handle escalating behaviors without power struggles, shutdowns, or lost learning time.

You’ll learn how to catch the early warning signs before things blow up, use game-changing de-escalation language that actually works, and put proactive strategies in place that help students regulate and refocus. Built for K–6 educators, this session is packed with real talk, real strategies, and ready-to-use teacher scripts you can take back and use immediately.

Walk in curious—leave feeling confident, equipped, and ready to take back your classroom.
Presenters
avatar for Angela Hurst

Angela Hurst

K3 Project Success Teacher, Pine Grove Elementary

I am a dedicated educator with 22 years of experience teaching 3rd and 4th grade. I currently serve as a Project Success Teacher, where I work closely with Tier 3 behavior intervention students to support their growth and success. I’m a proud wife to David and mom to DJ and Zach... Read More →
SM

Savanah Miller

Special Education Teacher

Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 19

12:00pm CDT

ParentSquare - Game Plan for Groups: Athletics & Activities Edition
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Coaches and club leaders—this one’s for you. Learn how to set up and manage your team using Groups, from adding guest users to organizing practices and games with the calendar. We’ll also cover post permissions and powerful add-ons so you can keep everyone informed, engaged, and ready for game day. Bring all of your questions and let's go!
Presenters
avatar for Scott Hardison

Scott Hardison

Training Specialist, ParentSquare
I am a Training Specialist at ParentSquare. My role is to educate ParentSquare customers on how to best utilize the product for effective school-to-home communication.
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 91

12:00pm CDT

Unlocking the Reluctant Writer: Practical Strategies to Boost Secondary Students' Writing Craft
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Reluctant high school writers often shut down when facing an essay—blank-page panic, weak ideas, poor structure, or zero motivation for timed prompts. This session delivers practical, ready-to-use strategies to help even the poorest writers succeed.
Presenters
avatar for Patsy Brantley

Patsy Brantley

ESL teacher, Robertsdale High School
I LOVE what I get to do every day! I hold a Doctorate in Teacher Leader and National Board Certification in English as a New Language.
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 201

12:00pm CDT

MagicSchool Student Level 1: Getting Started with AI for Learning
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
New to MagicStudent? This introductory session helps students and educators understand how to use AI as a tool for learning, not shortcuts. Explore how MagicStudent can support brainstorming, studying, writing, and organization while promoting responsible and ethical use. Walk away with simple, practical ways to help students build confidence, stay engaged, and use AI to enhance—not replace—their thinking.
Presenters
avatar for Destinie Thomas

Destinie Thomas

PD & Community Specialist, MagicSchool
Destinie Thomas is a Professional Development and Community Specialist at MagicSchool, where she helps educators discover how AI can make teaching more joyful, efficient, and equitable. She has spent her career creating engaging learning experiences—whether coaching teachers, leading... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 92

12:00pm CDT

AI-Powered Studying with NotebookLM
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Unleash the power of your personalized and protected AI assistant with NotebookLM. Find out how to create accessible study guides and learning aides for you and your students.
Presenters
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 96

1:00pm CDT

Fantastic 5-Minute Tips Ready to Use in Your Classroom!
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Looking for some simple, effective strategies and routines that will enhance your classroom during the upcoming school year? Did you know that eMINTS has a ton of free tips, resources and strategy cards on various topics including technology integration, building classroom culture, and using reflective practice with students? Come experience the tips live and in person, and then feel free to use them all year long!
Presenters
avatar for Doug Caldwell

Doug Caldwell

Instructional Specialist, eMINTS
Inspiring education with digital learning!
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 214

1:00pm CDT

ParentSquare - Data-Driven Communication & Secure Family Engagement
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Designed for principals and administrators, this session focuses on turning insights into action. Explore how to leverage ParentSquare reports to monitor engagement and make informed decisions, while also learning how to securely share important documents with families. We’ll also cover best practices for launching StudentSquare at your site and how to use data to keep a real-time pulse on communication across your school. Walk away with practical strategies to communicate with confidence.
Presenters
avatar for Scott Hardison

Scott Hardison

Training Specialist, ParentSquare
I am a Training Specialist at ParentSquare. My role is to educate ParentSquare customers on how to best utilize the product for effective school-to-home communication.
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 91

1:00pm CDT

Strengthening Secondary MTSS Through High School PST and Grade Level PLC Collaboration
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Discover how Robertsdale High redesigned its Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Problem Solving Team (PST) processes to strengthen Tier 1 instruction and guide targeted interventions through collaboration with Grade Level PLCs. Participants will explore how PLCs and PST teams analyze academic, attendance, and behavioral data through a shared problem-solving framework. The session highlights practical tools including meeting protocols, RTI-Scheduler integration, teacher feedback systems, and collaborative decision-making structures. Attendees will leave with replicable strategies for aligning PLC collaboration with MTSS systems to increase teacher ownership, strengthen collaboration, and improve student outcomes.
Presenters
NC

Nancy Caruthers

Teacher, Robertsdale High School
avatar for Annie Freeman

Annie Freeman

Curriculum Leader, Robertsdale High School
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 16

1:00pm CDT

MagicSchool Student Level 2: Deeper Learning with AI-Powered Support
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Take student learning to the next level with MagicStudent. In this session, participants will explore more advanced ways students can use AI to strengthen critical thinking, refine writing, and engage in meaningful problem-solving. Learn how to guide students in using AI for feedback, revision, and deeper understanding—while reinforcing academic integrity. Walk away with practical strategies to help students use MagicStudent as a true learning partner.
Presenters
avatar for Destinie Thomas

Destinie Thomas

PD & Community Specialist, MagicSchool
Destinie Thomas is a Professional Development and Community Specialist at MagicSchool, where she helps educators discover how AI can make teaching more joyful, efficient, and equitable. She has spent her career creating engaging learning experiences—whether coaching teachers, leading... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 92

1:00pm CDT

Formative Assessment with Pear Deck
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Learn how to engage and assess your students using Pear Deck! Create interactive slide decks that students will love to interact with while delivering content or for gauging learning.
Presenters
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 96

1:00pm CDT

Tie Dye - Good Vibes
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Learn to Tie Dye! Make and take your very own original tie dye!
This is great session for teacher teams, field trips, clubs, field day grade colors, or just a reward for the students you love! A class or the whole school! We will show you how easy it is to set up and have PEACE that it's something everyone can accomplish with fun success!!
Presenters
avatar for Joyce Garrison

Joyce Garrison

teacher, Rosinton Elementary
Hello!I am excited to be returning to GRITC as a presenter!
I graduated with my bachelors of fine art and master's of education from the University of Montevallo, which is located in Montevallo, AL.
I am married and we live in Loxley. I teach elementary art and I absolutely love it... Read More →
avatar for Nancy Timmons

Nancy Timmons

Middle School Art Teacher, Central Baldwin Middle
I have been teaching visual arts in Baldwin County for seven years, working with students from Pre-K through 8th grade. I studied art, religion, and philosophy at the University of West Florida and currently teach 8th grade art, where I enjoy blending creative skill-building with... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 45 - Art Room

2:00pm CDT

Practical AI for Educators: Enhancing Instruction, Feedback, and Efficiency Without Losing the Human Touch
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming education, but many educators remain unsure how to use AI tools ethically, effectively, and confidently in their daily practice. This session provides a practical, educator‑centered introduction to using AI as a support—not a replacement—for teaching and learning.
Participants will explore real classroom examples of how AI tools such as generative text assistants can be used to streamline lesson planning, personalize feedback, differentiate instruction, and support student engagement while maintaining academic integrity. The session also addresses common concerns, including ethical use, bias, transparency, and appropriate classroom boundaries.
Designed for educators at any experience level with AI, this session emphasizes hands‑on strategies that can be implemented immediately. Attendees will leave with concrete prompts, workflow ideas, and guidance for introducing AI responsibly to students.
Presenters
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 206

2:00pm CDT

Targeted ACAP Prep
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Build a roadmap to ACAP success with Progress Learning. Learn how to construct standards-aligned common assessments that mirror state rigor and utilize premium subject-area content. Once the data is in, we’ll show you how to instantly pivot to remediation.
Presenters
avatar for Becca Baker

Becca Baker

Training Manager, Progress Learning
Becca was an elementary teacher for 10 years before joining Progress Learning. She taught 4th and 5th-grade math and science in the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX area. She joined Progress Learning in 2021 as a Program Trainer and has led the team since 2023.
GU

Gabriella Unanue

Program Trainer, Progress Learning

Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 202

2:00pm CDT

From Data to Action: How the RHS Guiding Coalition Drives Learning, Leadership, and Results
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Join the RHS Guiding Coalition as they share how they drive student learning by analyzing data using the “Here’s What, So What, Now What” framework and how that thinking translates into real decisions at the classroom and school level. Learn how the GC clarifies schoolwide priorities, keeps PLCs aligned to essential outcomes, and protects teams from initiative overload. Discover how they build capacity in teacher leaders, model effective collaboration, and share best practices across teams. The session will also highlight how the GC monitors work of the PLCs. Walk away with practical strategies to strengthen leadership, collaboration, and results in your own team or .
Presenters
NC

Nancy Caruthers

Teacher, Robertsdale High School
avatar for Annie Freeman

Annie Freeman

Curriculum Leader, Robertsdale High School
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 16

2:00pm CDT

From Pre-Writing to Publishing: Streamlining Writing with NoRedInk Guided Essays
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Looking for a way to better support students through the writing process without doing all the heavy lifting? This session will walk you through how to use Guided Essays to scaffold student thinking, structure strong drafts, and streamline your writing instruction. You’ll explore real student results and leave with a clear plan for integrating Guided Essays into your next unit.
Presenters
avatar for Taylirre Andre

Taylirre Andre

Professional Learning Specialist, NoRedInk


avatar for Nikki Korte

Nikki Korte

Professional Development Consultant, NoRedInk

Beyond my role as a passionate ELA educator for over 15 years, I’ve served as an Academic Writing Coach and English Department Head, leading professional development, mentoring teachers, and driving schoolwide improvements. In these roles, my primary goal was to make teaching more... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 207
 
Wednesday, July 15
 

8:00am CDT

AMSTI K-5 Math Alabama Course of Study Training
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:00am - 11:00am CDT
K-5 Mathematics Foundational Training session is a pre requisite for this session. This
3-hour session is a dive into the Alabama 2019 Course of Study: Mathematics where
participants will explore the conceptual framework of the ALCOS (four critical
components: Position Statements, Student Math Practices, Math Teaching Practices,
and the Alabama Content Standards). Participants will become familiar with the
structure of the ALCOS, discover themes and learning progressions, and uncover
connections and relationships between components that are critical for effective
elementary mathematics instruction.
Presenters
avatar for Jennifer Fagerstrom

Jennifer Fagerstrom

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
I am passionate about building educator confidence, strengthening instructional systems, and ensuring all students experience meaningful mathematics learning. My career has progressed from classroom teacher to building-based math coach to multi-district mathematics specialist, giving... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:00am - 11:00am CDT
Room B - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

AMSTI 3-5 Measurement, Data, and Geometry
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
**Note: AMSTI Math Foundations (K-5 or 6-12) is a REQUIRED PREREQUISITE to attend and participate in this course.

This one-day session focuses on deepening conceptual knowledge through the use of
various models of representation for teaching and learning geometry, measurement,
and data analysis. Participants will engage in various activities that will build students'
understanding of geometry, measurement, and data analysis.
Presenters
avatar for Jaymie Gregg

Jaymie Gregg

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
Room D - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

AMSTI NUMBERS 3-5 Fractions and Decimals (Day 3 of 3)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
*Note: If you enroll in this session, you must attend ALL 3 full days of the sessions to receive credit.

This 3-day module focuses on fractional equivalence, fraction magnitude, operations, and the connection between fractional and decimal representation, and operations with decimals. Days 1 and 2 will highlight fractions and day 3 will highlight decimals.
Presenters
AR

Andrea Robinson

AMSTI Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Position at Company ABC.
avatar for Becky Soumeillan

Becky Soumeillan

AMSTI Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:00am - 3:00pm CDT
Room A - 9th Grade Academy

8:00am CDT

ACT AIM Reading Training (Pre-Registered Participants ONLY)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:00am - 3:30pm CDT
ACT AIM Reading Training (2 days- Pre-Registered Participants ONLY)
Presenters
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:00am - 3:30pm CDT
Room G - 9th Grade Academy

9:00am CDT

Taking the Mystery Out of Executive Function
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Learn to identify specific executive function skills and how they influence academic, behavioral, and social development in children and young adults. Leave with practical activities you can implement in the classroom to bolster students’ executive function skills!
Presenters
CJ

Chaelah Jenkins

Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Advanced Behavioral and Educational Consulting, LLC
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 267

9:00am CDT

You Can't Teach A Nervous System That's On Fire: Understanding Student Dysregulation in the Age of Social Media
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Something has shifted in our classrooms. Educators across grade levels and subject areas are reporting the same thing: students who cannot focus, cannot regulate, cannot tolerate uncertainty, and cannot connect the way they once could. And most professional development has responded by adding more — more curriculum, more programs, more policy, more things for already-exhausted educators to implement.

This session takes a different approach entirely.

You Can't Teach a Nervous System That's On Fire is a deep, honest, and surprisingly hopeful look at what is actually happening to the students sitting in our classrooms — through the lens of neuroscience, social media research, and the realities of growing up in an era of unprecedented collective overwhelm.

Participants will leave with:

A clear, accessible understanding of how chronic social media consumption is affecting the adolescent nervous system

The ability to recognize and reframe specific student behaviors through a neurological lens — transforming how they see and respond to their most challenging students

Practical, evidence-informed strategies to support student regulation that require no new budget and no additional programs

Language and tools to share with parents navigating these same challenges at home

This is not a session about blaming phones, diagnosing students, or adding to anyone's workload. It is a session about understanding — because when you truly understand what you are looking at, everything about how you show up changes.

And that changes what is possible in the room.
Presenters
avatar for Kristi Bush

Kristi Bush

Keynote Speaker, Social Media Safety Educator, KNB Communications
Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 20 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Library

9:00am CDT

Collaboration over Chaos: Simple Systems for Powerful Group Leanring
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Effective collaboration does not happen by chance — it is intentionally designed through structured routines, purposeful tasks, and a classroom culture that values student thinking.

Participants will experience collaborative structures from a learner perspective and examine practical systems that support productive group work, including flexible grouping methods, role development, formative monitoring strategies, and reflection protocols.
Presenters
avatar for Annie Freeman

Annie Freeman

Curriculum Leader, Robertsdale High School
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 252

9:00am CDT

Interact Differently: Reimagining Teaching with Interactive Displays & Digital Signage
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Today’s classrooms require more than just a display — they require tools that actively engage students, support teachers, and create more dynamic learning environments. In this session, educators will explore how interactive displays and digital signage can transform the way teaching and learning happen in the classroom and across campus. Attendees will walk away with practical tips, creative classroom use cases, and simple strategies for using built-in tools from Clear Touch to increase collaboration, participation, and instructional impact.
Presenters
avatar for Madison  Hunt

Madison Hunt

Account Manager, Clear Touch

Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 93

9:00am CDT

Formative Assessment with Pear Deck
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Learn how to engage and assess your students using Pear Deck! Create interactive slide decks that students will love to interact with while delivering content or for gauging learning.
Presenters
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am CDT
Room 96

9:00am CDT

Every Student Engaged, Every Lesson--A Taste of Kagan Cooperative Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:50am CDT
This session is a dynamic, hands-on session designed to give teachers, district leaders, and school leaders a firsthand look at the power of Kagan Cooperative Learning. Led by a certified Kagan trainer, participants will experience first-hand the power of structuring learning intentionally. Come learn how to transform student engagement by replacing Call On One with structures that engage EVERY learner.
Presenters
avatar for Aaron Diaz

Aaron Diaz

Director of Implementation Support, Kagan Publishing and Professional Development
Dr. Aaron Diaz has served as a bus driver, coach, teacher, assistant principal, and principal. He is passionate about improving pedagogy, teacher support, community engagement, relationshipbuilding, and strategic planning—especially through the use of Kagan Cooperative Learning... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 271

9:00am CDT

Illuminated Learning: Engaging Students with Blacklight Activities
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:50am CDT
In this interactive workshop, educators will discover how blacklight activities can boost student engagement across subjects. Learn the science behind UV light, explore creative lesson ideas, and see hands-on demos with fluorescent materials, invisible ink, and glow-in-the-dark elements. After exploring classroom applications, participants will take part in a printmaking activity under blacklight and experiment with a variety of fluorescent and neon art materials. Teachers will leave with practical, ready-to-use strategies, along with a product list and links to all materials used in the workshop.
Presenters
avatar for Joyce Garrison

Joyce Garrison

teacher, Rosinton Elementary
Hello!I am excited to be returning to GRITC as a presenter!
I graduated with my bachelors of fine art and master's of education from the University of Montevallo, which is located in Montevallo, AL.
I am married and we live in Loxley. I teach elementary art and I absolutely love it... Read More →
avatar for Nancy Timmons

Nancy Timmons

Middle School Art Teacher, Central Baldwin Middle
I have been teaching visual arts in Baldwin County for seven years, working with students from Pre-K through 8th grade. I studied art, religion, and philosophy at the University of West Florida and currently teach 8th grade art, where I enjoy blending creative skill-building with... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 9:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 45 - Art Room

10:00am CDT

Section 504 101: From Questions to Confidence
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
This training will cover the purpose of Section 504, eligibility criteria, and the process for identifying, evaluating, and supporting students with disabilities.By the end of the training, coordinators and administrators will feel more confident navigating the 504 process and supporting staff, students, and families. 📚
Presenters
avatar for Dionne Dunton

Dionne Dunton

Supervisor, Central Office Staff
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 92

10:00am CDT

Big Feelings, Big Behaviors: Helping Students Reset in K–6
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Elementary teachers are increasingly encountering students who struggle to manage big emotions that lead to disruptive or escalating behaviors. This session will equip educators with practical, classroom-tested strategies to recognize early warning signs of escalation and respond with calm, effective techniques that help students reset while maintaining a productive learning environment.

Participants will explore the stages of behavioral escalation, learn de-escalation language that prevents power struggles, and discover proactive strategies that support emotional regulation in K–6 classrooms. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use tools, teacher scripts, and behavior supports they can implement immediately.
Presenters
avatar for Angela Hurst

Angela Hurst

K3 Project Success Teacher, Pine Grove Elementary

I am a dedicated educator with 22 years of experience teaching 3rd and 4th grade. I currently serve as a Project Success Teacher, where I work closely with Tier 3 behavior intervention students to support their growth and success. I’m a proud wife to David and mom to DJ and Zach... Read More →
SM

Savanah Miller

Special Education Teacher
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 19

10:00am CDT

Where to Begin with National Board Certification
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Are you ready for the ups, downs, thrills, and chills of becoming an NBCT? Join us for an informative session on the National Board Certification process. This session will cover key aspects of the program, its benefits, and practical tips for success.
Presenters
avatar for Jaime Tillman

Jaime Tillman

Curriculum Leader, Daphne Middle School
avatar for Jacquelyn Wilson

Jacquelyn Wilson

Library Media Specialist, Stonebridge Elementary
I am the Library Media Specialist at Stonebridge Elementary. I have been an educator for 13 years. In our school library, I like to promote a culture of reading while also including a variety of makerspaces and research lessons. I am a National Board Certified Teacher and I also facilitate... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 207

10:00am CDT

Strengthening Secondary MTSS Through High School PST and Grade Level PLC Collaboration
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Discover how Robertsdale High redesigned its Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Problem Solving Team (PST) processes to strengthen Tier 1 instruction and guide targeted interventions through collaboration with Grade Level PLCs. Participants will explore how PLCs and PST teams analyze academic, attendance, and behavioral data through a shared problem-solving framework. The session highlights practical tools including meeting protocols, RTI-Scheduler integration, teacher feedback systems, and collaborative decision-making structures. Attendees will leave with replicable strategies for aligning PLC collaboration with MTSS systems to increase teacher ownership, strengthen collaboration, and improve student outcomes.
Presenters
NC

Nancy Caruthers

Teacher, Robertsdale High School
avatar for Annie Freeman

Annie Freeman

Curriculum Leader, Robertsdale High School
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 252

10:00am CDT

Session 1 | The Foundation: Integers & The Two-Step Bridge
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Focus: Level 1 – Integers and Two-Step Equations: Stop relying on "Keep-Change-Change" and other shortcuts that leave students confused. In this session, we’ll use bingo chips and unifix cubes to make positive and negative values concrete. We will then transition these visual "zero pairs" directly into solving two-step equations. You’ll walk away with a toolkit to help students see the balance before they ever write an x (variable).

A Note on Attendance: We’ve designed this series to grow with your students. If you teach upper elementary, Session 1 provides everything you need to transform your foundational math instruction. For secondary educators, this session is the "must-have" first step in a journey that bridges the gap from basic integers to multi-step equations.
Presenters
avatar for Daphne Lincoln

Daphne Lincoln

Math 8 Teacher, WJ Carroll Middle School
The 2026-2027 school year will be my 34th year in education dispersed between Mobile and Baldwin Counties--public and private. I have served in many capacities from teaching 3rd grade through Honors Algebra I. I hold degrees from the University of South Alabama, various other Professional... Read More →
avatar for Kaitlyn Cowan

Kaitlyn Cowan

Teacher, Foley Middle School
I am finishing up my third year of teaching mathematics and am passionate about creating engaging, student-centered learning experiences. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Math Education and my Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from the University of West Alabama.Before... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 93

10:00am CDT

Google Gemini: Your Classroom Assistant
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Dive into the features of Google Gemini, an AI chatbot that can help you create plans, assist in designing instruction, and customize your bot to meet your needs.
Presenters
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 96

10:00am CDT

The Teacher’s Spellbook: Google Scripts + Gemini Edition
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Step into The Teacher’s Spellbook and discover how to transform your daily tasks into automated “magic” using Google Apps Script and Google Gemini. This session is designed for educators with little to no coding experience who want to save time, reduce repetitive work, and streamline classroom and administrative workflows.

Participants will explore how Google tools like Sheets, Forms, and Slides can be enhanced with simple scripts to automate tasks such as sending emails, organizing data, generating reports, and creating presentations. The real “cheat code” of the session is learning how to use Google Gemini to write these scripts—no coding background required.

Through real-world examples, including large-scale event management and classroom applications, attendees will leave with practical strategies, ready-to-use prompts, and the confidence to begin automating their own workflows immediately.
Presenters
avatar for Miranda Mosley

Miranda Mosley

Instructional Technology Resource Teacher, MCPSS
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 3

11:00am CDT

Smart, Strategic, Intentional: Using CERT to Drive ACT Success
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Discover how to use CERT strategically, not just as an assessment tool, but as a powerful resource for driving intentional instruction, targeted remediation, and meaningful ACT growth. In this session, high school teachers and leaders will explore practical ways to leverage key CERT features, reports, and student supports to strengthen classroom instruction, inform PLC conversations, and promote student ownership of learning. Walk away with actionable ideas and practical strategies.
Presenters
avatar for Lauren Lavender

Lauren Lavender

ACT AIM Presenter, ACT AIM
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 3

11:00am CDT

F.A.M.I.L.Y. - Fair Access, Meaningful Inclusion, Leadership, and You (Belonging)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
The goal of this research-informed session is to introduce Nancy Schlossberg’s concepts of marginality and mattering through demonstrating how they can transform K-12 practice for Hispanic (ELL) and African American Students. These concepts are crucial for understanding how people adapt and thrive in environments. Participants will learn accessible definitions of marginality and mattering and why they matter for student engagement, identity, and achievement. Furthermore, we will examine common classroom and school level indicators of marginality for Spanish speaking ELL’s, and black students through short case studies and reflect on how this looks in our schools. Lastly, the goal is to explore evidence-based strategies teachers, assistant principals, and supervisors can implement immediately to increase students’ sense of mattering such as family engagement practices, targeted mentoring, and peer network interventions.
Presenters
avatar for Sharrell Edmond

Sharrell Edmond

Assistant Principal, Foley High School
Sharrell Edmond is a native of Mobile, Al. She is a proud graduate of Auburn University. While on the plains, she was able to obtain both a B.A. in Spanish and a B.A. in Theatre. She returned to Mobile where she began her teaching career with MCPSS teaching both Spanish and theatre... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 207

11:00am CDT

From Gloom to Bloom: Four Strategies for Building Positive Learning Spaces
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Discover four research-based strategies to energize your classroom by cultivating joy and emotional well-being. This fast-paced session blends Prosocial Education, active learning experiences, and classroom management strategies to boost engagement and improve classroom climate. Leave with practical techniques to foster positivity, strengthen relationships, and support learner success.
Presenters
avatar for Haylee Anderson

Haylee Anderson

Instructional Specialist, eMINTS National Center
Haylee Anderson is currently an instructional specialist with eMINTS National Center. She has previously been a high school English and Spanish and a middle school ELA educator in Missouri. Her family is the most important thing in the world to her. She lives in Southwest Missouri... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 214

11:00am CDT

From Data to Action: How the RHS Guiding Coalition Drives Learning, Leadership, and Results
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Join the RHS Guiding Coalition as they share how they drive student learning by analyzing data using the “Here’s What, So What, Now What” framework and how that thinking translates into real decisions at the classroom and school level. Learn how the GC clarifies schoolwide priorities, keeps PLCs aligned to essential outcomes, and protects teams from initiative overload. Discover how they build capacity in teacher leaders, model effective collaboration, and share best practices across teams. The session will also highlight how the GC monitors work of the PLCs. Walk away with practical strategies to strengthen leadership, collaboration, and results in your own team or .
Presenters
NC

Nancy Caruthers

Teacher, Robertsdale High School
avatar for Annie Freeman

Annie Freeman

Curriculum Leader, Robertsdale High School
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 252

11:00am CDT

Session 2 | Scaling Up: The Logic of Multi-Step Equations
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Focus: Level 2 – Multi-Step Equations: When equations get longer, students often get lost in the "clutter." We’ll explore how to use manipulatives to represent distribution and combining like terms without losing the conceptual "why." This session focuses on moving students from physical objects to pictorial representations, ensuring they understand the movement of terms across the equals sign as a logical necessity rather than a magic trick. Stop the 'magic tricks' and start the logic: Learn how to make the movement of terms across an equation make sense to every student. This is Session 2 of our three-part series. While stand-alone attendance is possible, educators will find the most success by starting with Session 1 and following the instructional bridge through to the end.
Presenters
avatar for Daphne Lincoln

Daphne Lincoln

Math 8 Teacher, WJ Carroll Middle School
The 2026-2027 school year will be my 34th year in education dispersed between Mobile and Baldwin Counties--public and private. I have served in many capacities from teaching 3rd grade through Honors Algebra I. I hold degrees from the University of South Alabama, various other Professional... Read More →
avatar for Kaitlyn Cowan

Kaitlyn Cowan

Teacher, Foley Middle School
I am finishing up my third year of teaching mathematics and am passionate about creating engaging, student-centered learning experiences. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Math Education and my Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from the University of West Alabama.Before... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 93

12:00pm CDT

Magical Strategies for Modern Classrooms with Magic School
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
This workshop will focus on the in's and out's of Magic School. You will learn to navigate the platform and explore core features designed to save you time. Figure out how easy it is to generate lesson plans, assessments, and engaging materials in minutes. Lastly, we will learn how to easily adapt instruction for diverse learners without the extra workload. This session is geared toward teachers at all levels/contents.
Presenters
AN

Andrea Niblock

English Teacher, Daphne High School
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 3

12:00pm CDT

National Boards? Yes, You Can!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Attendees will receive information on the process of achieving National Board Certification. You will learn how to navigate the NBCT site, download materials for your area of certification, and plan work for your components. Details on component weights and scoring, available resources, and tips and tricks will be shared from a National Board certified teacher.
Presenters
avatar for Shay Stewart

Shay Stewart

ESL Resource Teacher, Daphne High School
I began my teaching career in Baldwin County as a French teacher at Robertsdale High School in 1993. Since 2002, I have been an ESL Resource Teacher. My passion is to support ELs in their language and content learning and to help teachers learn scaffolds that accommodate English learners... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 91

12:00pm CDT

Sugar and Spice...Not Always Nice: Understanding and Addressing Relational Aggression in Girls
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
This session provides school counselors, educators, and support staff with a practical understanding of relational aggression among girls, using key insights from the book, Queen Bees and Wannabes. Participants will explore the secret society of girls, how social dynamics, peer influence, and communication patterns impact behavior, and how adults can respond in ways that build connection, accountability, and healthy relationships.
Presenters
avatar for Sherry Rainbolt

Sherry Rainbolt

Prevention and Support Supervisor, Central Office Staff
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 202

12:00pm CDT

AI-Powered Studying with NotebookLM
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Unleash the power of your personalized and protected AI assistant with NotebookLM. Find out how to create accessible study guides and learning aides for you and your students.
Presenters
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 96

12:00pm CDT

Play-Doh to Polygons: Making Math Stick in Upper Elementary
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Manipulatives aren’t just for primary grades. They are a powerful tool for building deep mathematical understanding in upper elementary as well. In this session, participants will explore how hands-on materials like play-doh, Magna-Tiles, and magnetic blocks can support conceptual learning in grades 4–6.
Through real classroom examples and practical strategies, teachers will learn how to help students move from concrete models to abstract thinking while increasing engagement and confidence in math. This session is ideal for upper elementary and middle school teachers looking to go beyond procedures and strengthen true understanding.
Presenters
avatar for Courtney Cunningham

Courtney Cunningham

Teacher, Rosinton Elementary
I am a sixth-grade math teacher at Rosinton Elementary School in Baldwin County, Alabama. I am passionate about creating engaging, student-centered learning experiences that combine collaboration, technology, and real-world problem solving. I am currently pursuing advanced studies... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 207

12:00pm CDT

Every Student Engaged, Every Lesson--A Taste of Kagan Cooperative Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
This session is a dynamic, hands-on session designed to give teachers, district leaders, and school leaders a firsthand look at the power of Kagan Cooperative Learning. Led by a certified Kagan trainer, participants will experience first-hand the power of structuring learning intentionally. Come learn how to transform student engagement by replacing Call On One with structures that engage EVERY learner.
Presenters
avatar for Aaron Diaz

Aaron Diaz

Director of Implementation Support, Kagan Publishing and Professional Development
Dr. Aaron Diaz has served as a bus driver, coach, teacher, assistant principal, and principal. He is passionate about improving pedagogy, teacher support, community engagement, relationshipbuilding, and strategic planning—especially through the use of Kagan Cooperative Learning... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 271

12:00pm CDT

Executive Functioning-Why we act like we do!!!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
This session will provide an in-depth training on Executive Functioning to better understand why students act like they do and how we can support positive changes.
Presenters
LA

Leigh Anne McPherson

Spec Ed Supervisor, Central Office Staff
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 243

12:00pm CDT

AMSTI K-5 Math Alabama Course of Study Training
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
K-5 Mathematics Foundational Training session is a pre requisite for this session. This
3-hour session is a dive into the Alabama 2019 Course of Study: Mathematics where
participants will explore the conceptual framework of the ALCOS (four critical
components: Position Statements, Student Math Practices, Math Teaching Practices,
and the Alabama Content Standards). Participants will become familiar with the
structure of the ALCOS, discover themes and learning progressions, and uncover
connections and relationships between components that are critical for effective
elementary mathematics instruction.
Presenters
avatar for Jennifer Fagerstrom

Jennifer Fagerstrom

AMSTI K-5 Math Mentoring Specialist, AMSTI
I am passionate about building educator confidence, strengthening instructional systems, and ensuring all students experience meaningful mathematics learning. My career has progressed from classroom teacher to building-based math coach to multi-district mathematics specialist, giving... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Room B - 9th Grade Academy

1:00pm CDT

From IEP to Independence: Transition Assessments in the Digital Age
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Explore how technology can transform transition planning for secondary students with IEPs. This session highlights digital tools and strategies to conduct meaningful transition assessments, analyze results efficiently, and use data to empower students toward post-school success. Participants will leave with practical ideas to streamline assessments and enhance student engagement using technology.
Presenters
NC

Nancy Caruthers

Teacher, Robertsdale High School
CH

Cassondra Hardy

Special Education Inclusion for Eng 12 & Case Manager, Robertsdale High School
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 202

1:00pm CDT

5 Ways to Get Students Involved in a Cooperative Team
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Using cooperative learning in the classroom can be a challenge! Let’s break this down and discuss specific steps and examples that keep team members involved and working positively towards your lesson goals.
Presenters
avatar for Doug Caldwell

Doug Caldwell

Instructional Specialist, eMINTS
Inspiring education with digital learning!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 214

1:00pm CDT

One Screen to Run the Room: Engagement and Management Made Simple
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Managing transitions, attention, and pacing can make or break a lesson. Classroom Screen provides a simple digital solution for timers, directions, grouping tools, and engagement supports. In this session, teachers will learn how to streamline routines, increase student independence, and create visually structured learning environments.
Presenters
avatar for Stacey Tatum

Stacey Tatum

6th Grade Science/Social Studies, Elberta Elementary
Hello! My name is Stacey Tatum, and I am a 6th Grade Science and Social Studies teacher at Elberta Elementary School. This year marks my first year teaching 6th grade after spending several years in 3rd grade, where I developed a deep passion for understanding how students learn to... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 16

1:00pm CDT

Session 3 | The Final Boss: Fractions & Meaningful Synthesis
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Focus: Level 3 – Fraction Coefficients & Pulling it All Together: Fractions are often the point where student confidence—and procedural memory—crumbles. In this final session, we use our established visual models to demystify reciprocal operations and fractional coefficients. Please note: This is the third session in a sequence; educators will benefit most by starting with Session 1 (“The Foundation”) to ensure they see the full conceptual bridge from basic integers to these complex multi-step solutions.
Presenters
avatar for Daphne Lincoln

Daphne Lincoln

Math 8 Teacher, WJ Carroll Middle School
The 2026-2027 school year will be my 34th year in education dispersed between Mobile and Baldwin Counties--public and private. I have served in many capacities from teaching 3rd grade through Honors Algebra I. I hold degrees from the University of South Alabama, various other Professional... Read More →
avatar for Kaitlyn Cowan

Kaitlyn Cowan

Teacher, Foley Middle School
I am finishing up my third year of teaching mathematics and am passionate about creating engaging, student-centered learning experiences. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Math Education and my Master of Education in Learning Design and Technology from the University of West Alabama.Before... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 93
 
Gulf Regional Innovative Teaching Conference - GRITC 2026
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