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Monday, July 13
 

10:00am CDT

Flip the Script: Assessment Remix
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Tired of the "teach to the test" cycle? Join us for a hands-on exploration of assessment strategies that reflect what your students know. In this session, we’re ditching the Scantron and Google Form in favor of high-engagement alternatives. We will dive into the versatility of Choice Boards, the storytelling power of Podcasts, and the visual synthesis of One Pagers. You’ll also learn how to spark deep classroom discourse with Parlay Ideas and empower students with the “You Write the Test” approach. Leave with a digital toolkit ready to transform your next unit.
Presenters
avatar for Nikki Minoso

Nikki Minoso

Teacher, ELA, Spanish Fort High
avatar for Allison Fisher

Allison Fisher

English Teacher, Daphne High School
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 206

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

Using Primary Sources to Engage Your Students
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
In this hands-on session, I’ll show you how to use high-interest hooks that turn your students into history detectives. You’ll learn how to use primary sources to anchor your lessons and activate deep inquiry.
Presenters
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 →
Monday July 13, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 207

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

Teaching Magic Without a Wand: AI Tools That Actually Save Time
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing education, but many teachers are unsure where to start. This session introduces Magic School AI as a practical classroom and planning tool that supports differentiation, lesson design, assessment creation, and student engagement. Participants will explore real classroom examples and leave with ready-to-use AI prompts aligned to curriculum standards.
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 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 16

11:00am CDT

The Discussion Revolution: Building Student Agency, One Round Table at a Time with Parlay Ideas
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Transform your classroom from a teacher-led lecture into a vibrant, student-driven community with Parlay Ideas. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll explore the Parlay Universe to find ready-made prompts that spark critical thinking and dive into the Written Round Table to see how anonymous peer feedback empowers even your quietest students. You’ll experience a Live Round Table firsthand to see how real-time data and discussion mapping can facilitate civil discourse and provide instant engagement analytics. Join us to learn how to step back as a lecturer and step up as a coach, using Parlay to make every student’s voice visible and every discussion measurable.
Presenters
avatar for Nikki Minoso

Nikki Minoso

Teacher, ELA, Spanish Fort High
Monday July 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 206

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

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

12:00pm CDT

How to Time Travel
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
How to create AI videos, placing you in the middle of your content.

Presenters
WC

Will Carnley

Social Studies Teacher, Robertsdale High School
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 3

12:00pm CDT

In District Fundraising for Clubs/Teams
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Baldwin County Public School’s After School Care program introduces the In-District Contract. These contracts allow high school and middle school organizations to earn funds by making presentations and teaching lessons to elementary school students during the After School program. These contracts are available for summer, fall, and spring semesters, offering opportunities for all groups to earn money for their organizations and recruit future members.
Presenters
avatar for Jacque Helms

Jacque Helms

ASC Coordinator, Central Office Staff
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 255

12:00pm CDT

Set the Stage, Spark the Learning: Space + Strategy for Student Engagement
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Bring learning to life! Discover how to turn standards into high-energy, engaging experiences through strategic instruction, flexible spaces, and impactful room transformations. Walk away with ready-to-use ideas that amplify student voice, support all learners, and make engagement the norm, not the exception.
Presenters
avatar for Sarah Nisewonger

Sarah Nisewonger

Third Grade Teacher, Fairhope East Elementary
Sarah Nisewonger has been teaching for 12 years. After spending 11 years teaching first grade, she recently completed her first year as a third grade teacher at Fairhope East Elementary. She is EMINTS and Kagan trained, STEAM certified and attended the Ron Clark Academy, an experience... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 16

12:00pm CDT

Level Up Learning with Explain Everything Whiteboard Activities
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Ready for new ways to engage your students with more dynamic lessons? In this session, we'll explore the powerful tools and templates within Explain Everything to build effective, interactive activities. You'll leave with the confidence and practical skills to create your own high-quality, instructional content.
Presenters
avatar for Kristin Dupuy

Kristin Dupuy

Teaching & Learning Consultant, Trafera
Kristin is a former middle school educator from Ascension Parish with 17 years of classroom experience. She received her undergraduate degree from Louisiana Tech University and her graduate degree from Southeastern Louisiana University. Kristin has been honored with the title of Teacher... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 95

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

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

Brain Pop Unleashed: Master The New Features for Fall!
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Join us for a hands-on exploration of BrainPOP's newest tools and features designed to transform your classroom instruction. Learn how to personalise learning, leverage powerful analytics, and boost student engagement with practical strategies you can implement immediately. Walk away confident and ready to unlock the full potential of BrainPOP in your teaching.
Presenters
avatar for Jenny McAllister

Jenny McAllister

Ed Tech, Central Office Staff
Hello! My name is Jenny McAllister. I'm a fifteen-year veteran middle school science teacher who recently left the classroom to join Ed Tech. I'm the point of contact for Pear Deck, BrainPOP, and Magic School (secondary). This fall, I will be leading the STEAM cohort for BCBE and... Read More →
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 5

2:00pm CDT

What’s Next with eMINTS: Updates & Opportunities
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Are you a veteran of eMINTS? Or, considering joining the next training cohort? This workshop is meant for both teachers that have already been through eMINTS training and also for those that have been considering joining. We will “sample” the latest materials, resources, and then experience three of our newest hands-on topics that are featured in or inspired by our most recent grant research.
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 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 214

2:00pm CDT

Revolutionary Writing: Helping Students Think Through Sentences
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Strong writing begins with strong thinking. This session introduces the Writing Revolution (Hochman Method) and shows how explicit sentence-level instruction improves student writing across all subjects. Teachers will learn practical strategies that support struggling writers while strengthening academic writing for all learners.
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 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 16

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

2:00pm CDT

Retro Report: Bringing Real-World Relevance to Science, History, and ELA
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
How does a 40-year-old news story help a student understand today’s biology lab, tomorrow’s history essay, or next week’s novel? Join us for a hands-on exploration of Retro Report, a free library of short-form documentaries that bridge the gap between historical events and modern-day impacts. Whether you are a Science teacher exploring the ethics of medical breakthroughs, a History teacher connecting past policies to current headlines, or an English teacher analyzing bias and narrative structure, Retro Report offers the primary source material you need. We will dive into their subject-specific collections, explore ready-to-use lesson plans, and learn how to use investigative storytelling to build critical thinking and media literacy skills in every classroom.
Presenters
avatar for Nikki Minoso

Nikki Minoso

Teacher, ELA, Spanish Fort High
Monday July 13, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 206
 
Tuesday, July 14
 

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

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

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

10:00am CDT

Flip the Script: Assessment Remix
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Tired of the "teach to the test" cycle? Join us for a hands-on exploration of assessment strategies that reflect what your students know. In this session, we’re ditching the Scantron and Google Form in favor of high-engagement alternatives. We will dive into the versatility of Choice Boards, the storytelling power of Podcasts, and the visual synthesis of One Pagers. You’ll also learn how to spark deep classroom discourse with Parlay Ideas and empower students with the “You Write the Test” approach. Leave with a digital toolkit ready to transform your next unit.
Presenters
avatar for Nikki Minoso

Nikki Minoso

Teacher, ELA, Spanish Fort High
avatar for Allison Fisher

Allison Fisher

English Teacher, Daphne High School
Tuesday July 14, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 206

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

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

ACAP Bootcamp: Mastery in Motion
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
In this session, participants will explore an ACAP Bootcamp model in which students are strategically grouped across classrooms and rotate through a series of focused instructional stations led by multiple teachers. Each data-driven station is designed to address a specific ACAP-aligned standard or skill, allowing students to engage in concentrated practice through varied instructional approaches that directly address student needs and support improved performance on the ACAP assessment.
Presenters
TB

Tyler Barber

Teacher-Math, Daphne Middle School
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 252

11:00am CDT

Targeted ACAP Prep
Tuesday July 14, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am 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 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 202

12:00pm CDT

The Discussion Revolution: Building Student Agency, One Round Table at a Time with Parlay Ideas
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Transform your classroom from a teacher-led lecture into a vibrant, student-driven community with Parlay Ideas. In this hands-on workshop, we’ll explore the Parlay Universe to find ready-made prompts that spark critical thinking and dive into the Written Round Table to see how anonymous peer feedback empowers even your quietest students. You’ll experience a Live Round Table firsthand to see how real-time data and discussion mapping can facilitate civil discourse and provide instant engagement analytics. Join us to learn how to step back as a lecturer and step up as a coach, using Parlay to make every student’s voice visible and every discussion measurable.
Presenters
avatar for Nikki Minoso

Nikki Minoso

Teacher, ELA, Spanish Fort High
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 206

12:00pm CDT

Diving into the Data
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
In this session, you’ll get an overview of the different reports available in Progress Learning, learn which reports to bring to a parent/teacher conference or PLC meeting, pull small groups, and more.
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 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 202

12:00pm CDT

Not One More Thing: Embedding Kagan Structures Into Instruction
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Teachers often feel overwhelmed by new strategies layered on top of existing expectations. What if engagement didn’t require adding one more thing to your plate? In this interactive session, participants will learn how Kagan cooperative learning structures can replace traditional instructional routines within lessons. Discover simple “structure swaps” that transform lecture, questioning, and practice into highly engaging learning experiences. Teachers will leave with practical strategies that increase participation and accountability—without increasing planning time.
Presenters
avatar for Makenzie Cunningham

Makenzie Cunningham

Instructional Coach, Rosinton Elementary
Makenzie Cunningham is an instructional coach at Rosinton with 11 years of experience in education. She has taught second, third, and fourth grades, as well as special education for pre-K through first grade. Makenzie has completed both Kagan Coaching and Instructional Coaching certifications... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 3

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

Level Up Learning with Explain Everything Whiteboard Activities
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Ready for new ways to engage your students with more dynamic lessons? In this session, we'll explore the powerful tools and templates within Explain Everything to build effective, interactive activities. You'll leave with the confidence and practical skills to create your own high-quality, instructional content.
Presenters
avatar for Kristin Dupuy

Kristin Dupuy

Teaching & Learning Consultant, Trafera
Kristin is a former middle school educator from Ascension Parish with 17 years of classroom experience. She received her undergraduate degree from Louisiana Tech University and her graduate degree from Southeastern Louisiana University. Kristin has been honored with the title of Teacher... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 95

12:00pm CDT

Ignite Your Classroom with PBLs
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Create community, improve communication skills, and incorporate problem-solving through engaging project-based learning lessons. PBLs are a great way to build creativity in students and cover many standards at once. They connect to real-world occupations and inspire students' futures. These lessons make learning fun and more memorable. They are easy to develop for your classroom no matter which subject you teach. For this 2-hour session, we will use Gemini's GEMs as AI helps us to build a PBL unit to use in your classroom next year.
Presenters
avatar for Laura Morin

Laura Morin

Gifted Teacher, Magnolia Elementary
Tuesday July 14, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 93

1:00pm CDT

How to Time Travel
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
How to create AI videos, placing you in the middle of your content.
Presenters
WC

Will Carnley

Social Studies Teacher, Robertsdale High School
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 3

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

Retro Report: Bringing Real-World Relevance to Science, History, and ELA
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
How does a 40-year-old news story help a student understand today’s biology lab, tomorrow’s history essay, or next week’s novel? Join us for a hands-on exploration of Retro Report, a free library of short-form documentaries that bridge the gap between historical events and modern-day impacts. Whether you are a Science teacher exploring the ethics of medical breakthroughs, a History teacher connecting past policies to current headlines, or an English teacher analyzing bias and narrative structure, Retro Report offers the primary source material you need. We will dive into their subject-specific collections, explore ready-to-use lesson plans, and learn how to use investigative storytelling to build critical thinking and media literacy skills in every classroom.
Presenters
avatar for Nikki Minoso

Nikki Minoso

Teacher, ELA, Spanish Fort High
Tuesday July 14, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm CDT
Room 206

2:00pm CDT

Digital Literacy for Secondary Students
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Here we'll review the current requirements for Digital Literacy in the Alabama ELA course of study and how to move beyond them to help students navigate a web of AI fakes and misinformation. Topics will revolve around reliable sources, bias, and triangulation. Widely useful for any course that requires students to complete online research assignments and even for teachers and administrators who need an updated and modern understanding of source reliability.
Presenters
avatar for Michelle Stockman

Michelle Stockman

Teacher, Robertsdale High School
I am currently serving as a senior English and AP English Language teacher at Robertsdale High School, but I have taught ELA in grades 6-12 in both Alabama and Tennessee during my time as a teacher. I have also served as a Reading Intervention teacher and mentor on the elementary... Read More →
Tuesday July 14, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm CDT
Room 5

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
 
Wednesday, July 15
 

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

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

In District Fundraising for Clubs/Teams
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Baldwin County Public School’s After School Care program introduces the In-District Contract. These contracts allow high school and middle school organizations to earn funds by making presentations and teaching lessons to elementary school students during the After School program. These contracts are available for summer, fall, and spring semesters, offering opportunities for all groups to earn money for their organizations and recruit future members.
Presenters
avatar for Jacque Helms

Jacque Helms

ASC Coordinator, Central Office Staff
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 255

10:00am CDT

History That Feels Real: Teaching Critical Thinking with Retro Report
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Students often struggle to connect historical events to modern issues. This session introduces Retro Report, a resource that uses journalism and documentary storytelling to connect past events to current conversations. Teachers will explore ready-to-use lessons that promote inquiry, media literacy, and civil discourse while aligning with social studies and literacy standards.
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 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Room 16

11:00am CDT

Teaching Magic Without a Wand: AI Tools That Actually Save Time
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing education, but many teachers are unsure where to start. This session introduces Magic School AI as a practical classroom and planning tool that supports differentiation, lesson design, assessment creation, and student engagement. Participants will explore real classroom examples and leave with ready-to-use AI prompts aligned to curriculum standards.
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 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 16

11:00am CDT

Digital Literacy for Secondary Students
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
The current requirements for Digital Literacy in the Alabama ELA course of study and how to move beyond them to help students navigate a web of AI fakes and misinformation. Widely useful for any course that requires students to complete online research assignments and even for teachers and administrators who need an updated understanding of source reliability.
Presenters
avatar for Michelle Stockman

Michelle Stockman

Teacher, Robertsdale High School
I am currently serving as a senior English and AP English Language teacher at Robertsdale High School, but I have taught ELA in grades 6-12 in both Alabama and Tennessee during my time as a teacher. I have also served as a Reading Intervention teacher and mentor on the elementary... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Room 5

12:00pm CDT

ACAP Bootcamp: Mastery in Motion
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
In this session, participants will explore an ACAP Bootcamp model in which students are strategically grouped across classrooms and rotate through a series of focused instructional stations led by multiple teachers. Each data-driven station is designed to address a specific ACAP-aligned standard or skill, allowing students to engage in concentrated practice through varied instructional approaches that directly address student needs and support improved performance on the ACAP assessment.
Presenters
TB

Tyler Barber

Teacher-Math, Daphne Middle School
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm CDT
Room 252

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
 
Gulf Regional Innovative Teaching Conference - GRITC 2026
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