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Wednesday, June 12
 

8:30am CDT

KEYNOTE: Personal Climate and Culture... It's Up to You

Gerry uses his videos to develop a strategy for making the workplace a pleasant place where faculty, administrators, and support staff all maintain mutual respect, regardless of personal differences, resulting in more efficient and fulfilled workers. In his virtual presentations, he uses object lessons to make these strategies meaningful.

Gerry will share policies that he has incorporated that promote a healthy respectful working relationship even when opinions differ. He will also share ideas that maximize opportunities to get to know staff members and create camaraderie, taking advantage of 15 seconds here and there throughout the day.

Speakers
avatar for Gerry Brooks

Gerry Brooks

Founder, Gerry Brooks
Gerry Brooks has been an educator for 25 years, beginning as a third-grade teacher in Palm Bay, FL. He earned his master’s in administration and has been an elementary principal for 12 years.Originally using humorous videos to encourage his staff, Gerry has become a national encourager... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 8:30am - 9:45am CDT
Ziock Ballroom

10:00am CDT

Leveraging AI for Wellness

Explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence in mental health with technology leader and mental health advocate, Mandy Froehlich. This session delves into how AI can offer personalized strategies for tackling procrastination, suggest coping mechanisms, and assist in self-care and mindfulness practices. This session promises actionable insights into improving emotional well-being in educational settings.

Participants will need a personal device for this session to explore different AI tools! Together, we will create a document using AI that will be your Personalized Wellness Plan for Building Resilience using AI tools. Additionally, Mandy will be providing and activity handout and space for participants to experiment with specific AI prompts using various tools, record the outputs received, and reflect on their potential applications. This hands-on approach facilitates exploration of AI capabilities and encourages creative thinking about integrating AI into educational practices or personal wellness strategies. 

Speakers
avatar for Mandy Froehlich

Mandy Froehlich

Educator, Consultant, Author
A former educator and Director of Innovation and Technology turned author, and technology and mental health consultant, Mandy Froehlich’s passion lies in reinvigorating educators back into their profession and support in their pursuit of divergent teaching. She consults with organizations... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Munthe Room

10:00am CDT

Ready... Set...RELATIONSHIPS! Through the Lens of Literacy

This session will equip and empower educational stakeholders with the systems and structures needed to build relational trust through social-emotional learning relational practices. Participants will learn the dynamics of relational trust relating to staff to staff, students to staff, admin to staff, and parents to school. In this session, participants will learn skills and strategies to implement relational practices to strengthen the culture of their school/classroom. Implementing relational practices can be used to shift classroom management proactively, which ultimately creates a thriving environment in which fun, effective teaching and learning can take place.  Come learn all about differentiated ways to implement relational practices within elementary education from a trauma-informed/restorative justice approach through the lens of literacy instruction! You will leave this session eager to implement relational practices within your classroom/school, along with the resources to support you in doing so!

Although this session will use literacy instruction as a model, the main focus will be how to build relational trust in any elementary classroom or school environment.

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Ebony Wrenn

Dr. Ebony Wrenn

Educational Consultant, National Nonprofit Director, Connection Consultants
Dr. Ebony Wrenn,  is a trailblazer in the field of urban education and a highly sought after mentor, speaker, leader, and educator. Her journey as an educator started her senior year of high school after she was awarded the Golden Apple Foundation scholarship for aspiring educators... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Karen Walker

Dr. Karen Walker

Dean of Student Support Programming, Rockford University
Dr. Karen Walker is an experienced educator, administrator, and education consultant. She directs initiatives to increase student success and retention at the collegiate level while also serving as a Literacy Consultant for Grades K-12. She has taught in the elementary grades as... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Nelson Room

10:00am CDT

Restorative Self-Core

We all need time to restore and reflect on harm we may cause to others or more importantly ourselves. This presentation will allow participants to create a safe space to look at themselves through self-reflection and address their needs to be engaged in positive and healthy relationships.



Speakers
avatar for Jason Smith

Jason Smith

Dean of Students & Restorative Trainer/Facilitator, Restore Together
Jason Smith is currently the Dean of Students at Dundee-Crown High School in Carpentersville, IL. Jason started at Dundee-Crown in August 2015. He is charged with shaping the collective climate and culture of the school and engaging others in building a positive school culture. Additionally... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Talcott Room A

10:00am CDT

Routines & Relationships Rule!

Building relationships and structuring routines in the classroom can help create an environment where ALL students want to learn. Adam's ideas for creating a welcoming and community-like atmosphere will have you ready to head back to school and excited to start your year! Learn ideas for building relationships with students, learn strategies for creating positive expectations and routines, and leave with ideas you can put in place right away!

Speakers
avatar for Adam Peterson

Adam Peterson

Speaker, Author, Educator, Adam Peterson Education
Adam Peterson is an award-winning educator, best-selling author, and a nationally recognized speaker.  After spending more than a decade as a kindergarten teacher, Adam now uses his knowledge and talents to inspire, educate, and motivate other teachers to create classrooms that encourage... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Ziock Ballroom B

10:00am CDT

The Connected Classroom Advantage

This laugh-filled master class unveils both the art and science of engagement by merging soft skills with Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) best practices.

The 'Connected Classroom' aims to transform classroom cultures from competitive to collaborative to bolster minds of all kinds. This dynamic and highly interactive experience showcases strategies for better teams and a stronger classroom dynamic. By applying improvisational techniques this session focuses on enhancing Communication, Collaboration, and Confidence. This Unlikely Teacher evolved from a challenged learner and now offers a range of team-building exercises designed for educators striving to foster deeper connections among increasingly disconnected students.


Speakers
avatar for Tim Clue

Tim Clue

Educator, Comedian, & Motivational Speaker
Long before he was an educator, professional speaker, comic, published playwright and father, Tim was an undiagnosed hyper-active dyslexic rug rat raised in a small rural town outside of Chicago. By 24, Tim was an award-winning college professor and coach of a nationally-recognized... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Ziock Ballroom A

10:00am CDT

Trauma-Informed and Suicide Awareness Training

Suicide rates are at an all-time high. Clients seeking help have experienced multiple traumas in their life. It is common to become desensitized to the pain and hopelessness that our clients are experiencing. During this workshop, we will focus on the impact of counter-transference and critical benefits of empathy in providing care for the traumatized client; introduction to the complexity problem and the emotional health continuum; impact of clients' risk factors and protective factors; and definition and implementation of techniques to differentiate between a client being in a passive risk of suicide and imminent risk for suicide.

Speakers
avatar for Kevin Polky

Kevin Polky

Founder, KP Counseling
Kevin Polky is the Founder of KP Counseling, the largest counseling agency in the Northern Illinois area. He currently serves as the Executive Director of KP Counseling, as well as Red Oak Counseling, the second largest counseling agency in the Milwaukee-Wisconsin region. Kevin is... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Talcott Room B

10:00am CDT

Why Social Justice Pedagogy & Why Now?: Unlocking the Educational Possibilities of Social Justice Stances

More than ever, especially in the wake of Illinois new Culturally Responsive Teaching and Leading Standards, educators need practical strategies for enacting culturally responsive pedagogy in their classrooms.This presentation by Dr. Eric Junco offers a compelling call to action for educators to embrace transformative teaching practices that address systemic inequalities and foster critical thinking. It highlights the importance of creating an inclusive curriculum that reflects the diversity of student experiences, thereby promoting equity and challenging the status quo. The presentation outlines 8 practical archetypal stances for enacting for implementing social justice pedagogy, including adopting roles like the Counselor, Curriculum Developer, and Activist to empower students and encourage active participation in creating a fair society.  

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Eric Junco

Dr. Eric Junco

Director for Equity at College of Education, Northern Illinois University
Dr. Eric Junco stands at the forefront of educational equity as the inaugural Director for Equity at Northern Illinois University's College of Education. With a rich background that bridges the gap between theory and practice, Dr. Junco's journey in education is marked by a pursuit... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 10:00am - 11:00am CDT
Talcott Room C

11:15am CDT

LUNCH! Take a break, or attend a Lunch & Learn Session
Wednesday June 12, 2024 11:15am - 12:00pm CDT
TBA

11:30am CDT

LUNCH: Select this if you are NOT attending a Lunch & Learn Session
Wednesday June 12, 2024 11:30am - 12:00pm CDT

11:30am CDT

Behavior Support Plans: A Teacher-Led Solution to Managing Difficult Behaviors

Struggling with big, bold and disruptive behaviors in the classroom? Don't have time to wait for a Behavior Intervention Plan? Join me to talk about Behavior Support Plans where you can design a plan, apply and document trauma-informed practices, and gather data needed for a possible Behavior Intervention Plan. The best part is it puts a teacher-developed and teacher-controlled plan in place while working in that direction.  

Speakers
avatar for Linsey McDanel

Linsey McDanel

Kindergarten Teacher & TBRI Practitioner, Jones Farrar Elementary School
Hi! I'm Linsey McDanel, I have been a kindergarten teacher for 21 years. I have a special education and elementary education license. My husband and I have 5 children, 3 of which have been adopted through foster care. It was through their needs and our inadequacies that we found TBRI... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 11:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Nelson Room

11:30am CDT

FEATURED SCHOOL: Reset. Connect. Restore. Return: How Reset Programs Will Slash Your Office Behavior Referrals in 3 Simple Steps

Discover the transformative journey of Summit Academy as they revolutionized their approach to student behavior and disciplinary actions. In a groundbreaking initiative, the school implemented a highly effective reset program that led to a remarkable reduction in student behavior referrals and exclusionary disciplinary measures. At the heart of this success is the establishment of a dedicated reset space, strategically embedded within a framework of de-escalation techniques, restorative practices, and counseling interventions.

By intervening proactively before reaching administrative offices, the reset program has proven instrumental in addressing the needs of at-risk youth. This innovative approach not only mitigates disruptive behaviors but also fosters a supportive environment for students to reset and refocus on their academic and personal growth. The results speak for themselves, as Summit Academy has experienced a substantial shift in the school culture, positioning itself as "Top 8 in the Nation for Exemplary Practices" by the National Alternative Education Association.

Join us to explore the key components of this pioneering reset program, understand the impact on student outcomes, and learn how Summit Academy has set a new standard for disciplinary practices, emphasizing empathy, understanding, and collaboration over punitive measures.

Speakers
avatar for Faith McNamee

Faith McNamee

Summit Academy-Assistant Director of School Improvement, ROE #4
After spending 3 years teaching special education at the elementary level and 7 years as a middle school teacher in an alternative school serving students with significant emotional needs, I jumped on board at Summit Academy this year in an admin role. This new adventure began a year... Read More →
avatar for Chase Dooley

Chase Dooley

MTSS Coordinator, ROE 4


Wednesday June 12, 2024 11:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Munthe Room

11:30am CDT

Practical Behavior Data Analysis Tools and Supports

This presentation will provide and educate users on a number of different data tools using Google Sheets and Google Forms. We will look at behavioral data collection tools including Antecedent Behavior Consequence Data, partial interval data, and duration data to both take data and analyze data. These tools will give visual outputs which will allow folks to quickly and easily share data with others.



Speakers
avatar for Catherine Andrews

Catherine Andrews

Behavior Coach, RPS205


Wednesday June 12, 2024 11:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Talcott Room C

11:30am CDT

Unlocking the Power of the Mind: The Skills We All Need in the Age of AI and Social Media

In the age of social media and AI, students need to develop skills beyond what are traditionally taught in school. Dive into the fascinating world of cognition with our interactive presentation, "Unlocking the Power of the Mind." Explore the 6 higher faculties—reason, intuition, perception, will, memory, and imagination—and learn how they shape our thinking and decision-making. Through engaging activities, discover practical strategies to enhance memory, critical thinking, and creativity. Perfect for educators seeking innovative teaching methods and individuals curious about the inner workings of the mind. Join us on this journey of exploration and empowerment!

Speakers
avatar for Ryan Reinecke

Ryan Reinecke

Principal, Rock Cut Elementary
With over 15 years in education, Ryan has dedicated himself to diverse roles. As a teacher, he nurtured special education, regular education, and gifted students, tailoring his approach to their unique needs. His journey as a school administrator spans early childhood through high... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 11:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Talcott Room A

11:30am CDT

Using Music as a Tool in ANY Classroom: Motivation, Focus, and Expression

Music can be an exceptional tool to use in the classroom -- it can be used to motivate and focus students as well as give them an outlet to express idea, emotions, and cope with stress. This presentation will focus on activities, methods, and ideas to effectively incorporate music in ANY classroom to better the education of students.

Get your groove on and leave with templates for assessments, journal ideas, and QR codes to playlists and videos you can use right away!

Speakers
avatar for Hayley Gotzsche

Hayley Gotzsche

Choir Teacher, Willowbrook Middle School
Hayley Gotzsche is in her 8th year teaching as a Music Educator. She received her Undergraduate Degree in Music Education from Northern Illinois University (2015) and her Masters Degree in Music Education from Western Illinois University. (2022) She has presented on varying education... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 11:30am - 12:00pm CDT
Talcott Room B

12:15pm CDT

Funny Polling for Teachers: Laughter and Wellness

This unique session leverages "dumb data" team spirit and the absurd, presenting metaphor-rich prompts to ensure engagement without the pressure of competition. It's joyous, silly, and inclusive, fostering high engagement. Wellness blossoms as teams connect, reflect, share, and laugh together over poll answers seen in real time.  This one's Ideal as a conference wrap-up or a breakout session, Funny Polling is the perfect teacher's aide for wellness and team to help ensure happy healthy teachers will continue to influence more happy healthy students.

Speakers
avatar for Tim Clue

Tim Clue

Educator, Comedian, & Motivational Speaker
Long before he was an educator, professional speaker, comic, published playwright and father, Tim was an undiagnosed hyper-active dyslexic rug rat raised in a small rural town outside of Chicago. By 24, Tim was an award-winning college professor and coach of a nationally-recognized... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Ziock Ballroom B

12:15pm CDT

Healing Through Self-Compassion & Micro-Resilience Strategies

Understanding who we are and how we can best take care of ourselves through self-care is one of the best ways to support our human and prepare our best selves for those we serve. In this session you'll realize practical strategies for the four types of self-care, and discuss resilience strategies and activities that contribute to developing a strong foundation for healing.

In the "Healing through Self-Compassion" session, participants will reflect on their current self-care practices, align them with various dimensions of self-care, and identify any gaps. They will then select from suggested activities to fill these gaps, leading to the creation of a personalized self-care goal. This process encourages a holistic approach to wellness, promoting self-compassion and a deeper commitment to personal well-being through enriched self-care practices.

Speakers
avatar for Mandy Froehlich

Mandy Froehlich

Educator, Consultant, Author
A former educator and Director of Innovation and Technology turned author, and technology and mental health consultant, Mandy Froehlich’s passion lies in reinvigorating educators back into their profession and support in their pursuit of divergent teaching. She consults with organizations... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Talcott Room C

12:15pm CDT

Mind-Full Educator: Strategies and Tools to Reduce Educator Exodus

A classroom environment can only be filled with what the educator has the capacity to pour out. To ensure learning environments are safe, collected, and calm, educators themselves must first integrate wellness practices designed to refresh and refill. This session emphasizes the importance of SEL strategies in the implementation of educator self-care. Participants will discover how to calm the parasympathetic system using techniques which support mindfulness.

Speakers
avatar for Jessica Hewitt

Jessica Hewitt

The Yet Mindset
I have been working with children for close to 15 years. Several years ago I made the transition away from public education and had the pleasure of working with families in nature. Currently, I am the Lead Teacher for an online organization educating homeschooling families from around... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Talcott Room A

12:15pm CDT

Purpose Meets Practice … Focusing on Behavior to Support REAL MTSS Work

In this session we will set the foundations of a behavioral MTSS structure and explore how to ensure all tiers of students are getting what they need to thrive.  We will look at best practice programming to support students and forecast mistakes to avoid in developing and implementing MTSS systems.

Additionally, we will lean on the perspective of our clinical therapist, Dr. Pickens, who will help participants better understand behavior management, emotional regulation, and restorative ways to support students within the MTSS structure.

Speakers
avatar for Devon LaRosa

Devon LaRosa

Chief of High Schools, Chicago Public Schools
As the chief of Network 16, Devon LaRosa supports high school leaders to ensure that all students receive a world-class education that prepares them for postsecondary success. This role is a natural transition from his previous role at Deputy Chief of Network 16, where he built strong... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Kierra Pickens

Dr. Kierra Pickens

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Key Points Counseling
My eclectic style allows me to focus on integrating clients’ morals, values, and personal history. Clients and I collaborate to discover and determine the most effective goals. I believe in guiding clients with identifying ways counseling will lead to their personal growth and achievement... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Munthe Room

12:15pm CDT

StressED to Death

Educators are facing the highest levels of stress and burnout in decades, often being forced to address and prioritize the health and well-being of others over their own. Stressed-out educators are less productive, struggle with absenteeism, and have a much higher risk for illness and major medical problems. In this session, learn about the negative impacts of stress on the body from a recovering stress-a-holic and Sudden Cardiac Arrest survivor who was quite literally stressed to death at the age of 28 while working as a school administrator. Hear Heather’s story of survival, learn about the negative impacts of stress on the body, strategies for managing and coping with the many pressures facing educators, and strategies for moving from stressed and overwhelmed to healthy and successful.

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Heather Baker

Dr. Heather Baker

Principal, Dorothy Simon Elementary School
On February 1st, 2018, Heather died on the floor at work after suffering from Sudden Cardiac Arrest at the age of 28. Working long hours each day trying to make a name for herself in the world of education, Heather never knew that you could literally become stressed to death.Since... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Nelson Room

12:15pm CDT

Tools for Team Building: Cultivating Brave School Team Structures through SEL

Grounded in cutting edge research on courage, vulnerability, empathy, and resilience, this interactive session focuses on creating systems to support healthy teams. Starting with activities designed to build connections and enhance effective communication in staff meetings and PLCs, this workshop incorporates self-reflection, discussion, and the development of key empathetic leadership moves to establish strong collaboration. Teachers and leaders will leave with simple, ready-to-use tools to harness collective strength and cultivate brave spaces for all teams to flourish.

Speakers
avatar for Courtney Donohoe

Courtney Donohoe

Director of Professional Learning, Better Together Cubed
Courtney has over a decade of experience serving in K-12 educational settings—as a teacher, administrator, literacy consultant, and school improvement coach. Her most recent work has led her to school districts around the country in service of improving district-wide systems and... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Talcott Room B

1:30pm CDT

KEYNOTE: Curing Adultitis: Your Prescription for Less Stress and More Success

Adultitis is an epidemic that is coming hard after us every single day. It can infiltrate even the best working environments, producing stress and instigating burnout. Left unchecked, Adultitis will eat your productivity, teamwork, and morale alive. Surrender need not be an option, however. In this lighthearted but hard-hitting program, Jason will arm you with the fresh perspective you need to reclaim your passion and create better harmony between work and home. He provides witty observations, humorous anecdotes, and real-world techniques that will entertain and inspire the audience to live a richer, more balanced life. You'll learn easy, practical tips for bringing more fun and less stress to the job at hand, contributing to a work environment that's more enjoyable and engaging for yourself AND those you serve. Adultitis may be a formidable foe, but Jason can help you annihilate it.

Speakers
avatar for Jason Kotecki

Jason Kotecki

Founder, Escape Adulthood
Jason Kotecki is a professional reminder-er and permission granter who moonlights as an artist, author and professional speaker. Jason and his wife Kim have made it their mission in life to help people and organizations break free from Adultitis to build better lives, businesses... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT
Ziock Ballroom

3:00pm CDT

Beyond Stereotypes: Dismantling Barriers to Male Self-Care

This session delves into the often overlooked topic of how men navigate the realm of wellness and self-care, which is traditionally dominated by female perspectives. We will explore how societal expectations and gender stereotypes shape the way men perceive and engage with self-care practices. By examining these barriers, you hope to gain insights into fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for male self-care within educational settings.

Furthermore, this session offers practical insights into promoting self-care among male students, who may find it challenging to engage with these practices, particularly in their youth. By addressing the unique needs and experiences of young men, attendees will gain valuable strategies for creating inclusive spaces where male students are encouraged to embrace self-care as an essential aspect of their personal growth and academic success.


Speakers
avatar for Devon LaRosa

Devon LaRosa

Chief of High Schools, Chicago Public Schools
As the chief of Network 16, Devon LaRosa supports high school leaders to ensure that all students receive a world-class education that prepares them for postsecondary success. This role is a natural transition from his previous role at Deputy Chief of Network 16, where he built strong... Read More →
avatar for Jason Smith

Jason Smith

Dean of Students & Restorative Trainer/Facilitator, Restore Together
Jason Smith is currently the Dean of Students at Dundee-Crown High School in Carpentersville, IL. Jason started at Dundee-Crown in August 2015. He is charged with shaping the collective climate and culture of the school and engaging others in building a positive school culture. Additionally... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Talcott Room B

3:00pm CDT

Calm the Mind, Heal the Body: A Restorative Yoga Journey

Join me for a deeply rejuvenating experience as we delve into the tranquil world of Restorative Yoga. In this serene and introspective session, participants will be guided through gentle poses and breath work designed to promote relaxation, release tension, and restore balance to the body and mind.

This session will offer a safe and nurturing environment for all levels to unwind and recharge. Through the use of supportive props and mindful guidance, participants will explore the subtle nuances of each posture, allowing for deep release and surrender.

Throughout the session, emphasis will be placed on cultivating mindfulness and presence as well as fostering a sense of inner peace and tranquility. Participants will learn to listen to their bodies, honoring their unique needs and boundaries, while cultivating a sense of compassion and self-care.

Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Kaiser

Jennifer Kaiser

SEL Specialist, ROE 4
Jennifer is a dedicated and seasoned education professional with an impressive career spanning over 25 years. Her journey in the field of education has taken her through various roles, from being a classroom teacher to serving as an interventionist, team lead, parent, and school board... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Exhibition Gallery

3:00pm CDT

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT): Drop Stress Like a Rock!

EFT is an easy to learn, effective, quick way to alleviate stress, pain, or a troubling event quickly. Once you know the technique you will be able to use it daily or when you need it. It is tapping specified pressure points on the body while thinking and feeling the stressful event. The technique helps you release it from your body.

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Ann Reynolds

Dr. Ann Reynolds

Founder, Teacher, Ann E Reynolds, ED.D
I fell in love with school and teaching when I was a student in middle school. Having completed a career of 33 years, I still love to teach. But it was not always so. After seven years of teaching, I hit a wall and nearly left. It felt as if I was at the back end of my career looking... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Nelson Room

3:00pm CDT

Keep Calm and Paint On!

This workshop will focus on how creative exercises can help teachers and students better understand themselves and the world around them, as well as be a powerful tool for self-care. You will be guided through a painting session, learn strategies to take creativity back to your classroom, and leave with a canvas artwork that you created yourself.  Even if you are not an "artist," this session is friendly for all learners -- just bring yourself and a playful mind!

Speakers
avatar for Linda DeYounge

Linda DeYounge

Professional Learning Facilitator, ROE 4
Linda DeYounge currently serves as the Professional Learning Facilitator for the Boone-Winnebago Regional Office of Education. Previously, she served as a high school English teacher for five years at Hononegah Community High School.In her time as a teacher, she focused on writing... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Munthe Room

3:00pm CDT

Know Thyself: Self-Care Starts with Self-Awareness

In the session "Understanding Yourself: The Foundation of Self-Care," we will explore the significance of self-awareness in fostering effective teamwork and empathy towards others. Through immersive and engaging activities, participants will gain valuable insights into their own motivations and communication styles. By cultivating self-awareness, attendees will develop a deeper understanding of themselves and how it contributes to embracing diverse viewpoints, impacting collaboration and communication. Key takeaways will include enhanced interpersonal skills, improved team dynamics, and a renewed emphasis on overall well-being, both individually and as a team. We invite you to join us on this journey of self-discovery and teamwork.

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Julie Sperry

Dr. Julie Sperry

Director of Program Expansion & Innovation, CharacterPlus
avatar for Michael Barolak

Michael Barolak

Founder, RestoreEDU
Michael Barolak is a transformational leader committed to creating, improving, and executing organizational systems that intentionally benefit all students, staff, and stakeholders.  With twenty four years in public education as a social worker and district administrator, Michael... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Talcott Room A

3:00pm CDT

Refresh and Renew: A mini-retreat for you!

Have you ever wanted just a moment for yourself to think, replenish and restore your energy? This mini personal retreat is designed especially for those in education, strives to recharge your spirit and reignite your passion. Led by seasoned facilitator, Laurie Guest, this session offers a tranquil oasis, providing you with invaluable moments of
self-reflection and renewal.

Discover the power of thought-provoking questions as you learn to quiet the noise of everyday life and tap into your inner wisdom. Explore practical strategies for self-care and resilience, empowering you to navigate life's challenges with grace and clarity. In this immersive retreat, you'll embark on a journey of self-discovery through a series of interactive exercises and discussion. You'll explore techniques for managing stress, cultivating inner peace, and reconnecting with the happiest version of yourself.

Session includes a free copy of Laurie’s book: Wrapped in Stillness: A personal retreat guide.

Speakers
avatar for Laurie Guest

Laurie Guest

Founder, Speaker, Author, Guest Enterprises
For over 26 years, Laurie Guest has built a reputation for being a speaker who does not disappoint. She is an award-winning columnist and the author of three books. Laurie is a certified speaking professional and a member of the CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame™ an honor held by less than... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Hospitality Suite

3:00pm CDT

Tech-ology: The Impact Technology has on our School's Ecosystem... What Do We Do?

Join us as we explore technology's impact on today’s students and their developing brains, the school ecosystem, and inside the classroom. Along the way, we’ll dig into other contributing factors to the current student mental health crisis and what we, as educators, can do to make positive changes at school that impact our student’s overall well-being. How do we thrive in both the oxygenated and the digital world? 

By the end, you’ll walk away with a new awareness geared toward helping us all navigate the digital world with less stress, more productivity, and greater wellness and awareness in mind.

Speakers
avatar for Holly Kelly

Holly Kelly

Regional Educational Technology Coordinator, Learning Technology Center of Illinois
Holly Kelly is a Regional Educational Technology Coordinator for the Learning Technology Center, serving the east central region. She facilitates professional learning opportunities for educators, administrators, and technology staff that support digital teaching and learning. Holly... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Ziock Ballroom B

3:00pm CDT

Wellness Quest: A Choose Your Own Adventure in Personal Well-Being

You will choose two sessions to rotate between when you sign up for this afternoon session. Each session will be 35 minutes in length.

SESSION ONE
Harmony in Bloom: Life in 5 Senses
Mimi Ojaghi and Jan Oncken

Join us for a rejuvenating professional development workshop focused on nurturing personal wellness and integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) into your daily life. Explore the different dimensions of wellness and discover how to cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling life. As part of this workshop, you'll have the opportunity to create a beautiful bouquet, symbolizing the growth and flourishing that comes from embracing SEL practices. Leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and equipped with strategies to enhance your personal well-being and bring SEL into your workplace.

SESSION TWO
Reflect & Refine: Empowering Educators Through Reflective Practices 
Sara Koziol

As the school year draws to a close, take this unique opportunity to delve into the art of self-reflection to foster a mindset of continuous improvement and personal growth within your teaching practice. Join this workshop to further understand the essence of reflection, tools and techniques for reflective thinking, how to cultivate a growth mindset, and how you can even teach some of these strategies to your students, as well.

SESSION THREE
Not Your Grandma's Diary: Journaling for Self-Care Cynics
Katie Goden

This workshop is designed for those who find traditional self-care practices daunting or unappealing. Explore accessible ways to incorporate moments of self-care into your daily routine with simple journaling and writing exercises, like MadLibs, without the pressure of a full self-care regimen. Discover easy writing techniques to reduce stress and enhance well-being for the skeptic!
 

SESSION FOUR
Game On!  Play isn't just for the kids
Nicole Ambrosia

Want to create opportunities for staff and students to build closer and stronger relationships, relieve stress and increase laughter and joy, and enhance creativity & self-confidence?  Come play! Join for an interactive session where you will play games that can be used with both kids and adults at school and in  classrooms and that support social and emotional skills at any grade and age level.


Wednesday June 12, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
TBA

3:00pm CDT

Wonderhunt: A Scavenger Hunt For the Weary Soul

Wonderhunt is the simple act of intentionally looking for wonder in an effort to reawaken your heart. Kim Kotecki discovered wonderhunting in the midst of a challenging season in her life, as she found herself balancing motherhood (with three kids ages five and under) while balancing a career she loved. She found that looking for wonder and capturing the beauty through (simple) photography helped her reclaim peace and joy amidst the high demands of her life. It was a scavenger hunt for her soul. 

Several years and hundreds of photos later, Kim is grateful to share the rejuvenating experience with others. Through this session Kim will share more about this healing practice, which will give you new tools to be more present in the moment, see life with new eyes of hope, find the miraculous in the mundane, and reawaken your soul in a way that changes everything.

Speakers
avatar for Jason Kotecki

Jason Kotecki

Founder, Escape Adulthood
Jason Kotecki is a professional reminder-er and permission granter who moonlights as an artist, author and professional speaker. Jason and his wife Kim have made it their mission in life to help people and organizations break free from Adultitis to build better lives, businesses... Read More →
avatar for Kim Kotecki

Kim Kotecki

Co-Founder, Escape Adulthood
Kim Kotecki is the other co-founder of Escape Adulthood. She manages the communication, calendar, travel arrangements, and all sorts of important details that have to do with Jason’s speaking engagements and the Escape Adulthood Summit. Kim co-conspires with Jason on all the big... Read More →


Wednesday June 12, 2024 3:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
Ziock Ballroom A
 
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