THS SPARK 2026: Full Schedule

8:00am EDT

Breakfast & Mingle

Thursday August 13, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT

TBA

Thursday August 13, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
TBA

General

8:30am EDT

Mindfulness for Educators

Thursday August 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT

Gymnsium

A guided journey for teachers and staff supporting neurodivergent learners — exploring tools and practices to build resilience, restoration, and a deep sense of well-being, both at work and at home.

Speakers

Julie Cassaday

Speaker, Life Coach, and Reiki Master, Tanglewood Life Coaching

Julie Cassaday is the founder of her company, Tanglewood, and is trained as a Speaker, Life Coach, and Reiki Master. After more than 30 years working in Sales, Julie left the corporate world in 2017 to focus on caregiving for her parents and serving others through Tanglewood.In... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
Gymnsium

Keynote

9:30am EDT

Morning Announcements

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:30am - 9:45am EDT

TBA

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:30am - 9:45am EDT
TBA

General

9:55am EDT

The Power Of Ignoring And Other Behavior Management Ticks That Really Work

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT

TBA

Have you ever gotten into a power struggle with a student, only to end up frustrated or angry? Are you looking for some practical tips for behavior management that will actually free up your time to teach your students? This session will explore some practical, time tested behavior management techniques that help you feel more confident and successful with day to day management of students.

Speakers

Martha Schneider

Program Director, The Harbour School

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT
TBA

Classroom Management & Student Behavior

9:55am EDT

Proper Woodshop Measuring and 5 Tape Measure Mistakes

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT

TBA

The tape measure is basically like an extra set of eyes. The tape measure sees things our normal eyes can't detect and reveals Truth where we would otherwise be left to guesswork but it is surprisingly easy to misuse a tape if you don't handle it quite right. In this session I'm going to explain the five most common tape measure mistakes I see.

Speakers

John Schneider

Woodshop Manager, The Harbour School

I am John Schneider, a woodworker. In the past I have spent a large portion of my career in banking but I have always had a passion for woodworking. Recently I have become a full-time woodshop teacher in the Harbour School. While I have spent my lifetime trying to perfect the art... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT
TBA

Interactive Curriculum & Community Resources

9:55am EDT

Using Local Resources in the Maryland Area for Classroom Instruction, Club Activities, and Personal Enjoyment

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT

TBA

Discover the hidden treasures waiting just beyond your classroom! Maryland and its surrounding neighbors offer many educational, cultural, historical, scientific, and recreational resources that that can be used for field trips, guest speakers or hands on projects in the community. From fascinating museums and historic landmarks to nature centers, state parks, performing arts venues, colleges,...
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Speakers

Ted Neikirk

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

Ted Neikirk has taught in multiple settings and multiple social studies subjects. He loves hiking, music, the arts, exploring different cultures, history of all types, camping, winter sports, kayaking, and loves to explore and share historical towns and natural areas in the Maryland... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT
TBA

Interactive Curriculum & Community Resources

9:55am EDT

Leveling the Playing Field with Assistive Tech

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT

TBA

Discover how to transform standard Apple devices into powerful engines for equity and inclusion. This session dives deep into the built-in, free accessibility features of iPadOS and macOS that support neurodiverse learners, and students with physical or visual impairments.

Professional Development Points (PDPs): Special Education

Speakers

Amy Adams

Technology Coordinator, The Harbour School

Amy Adams has been a member of The Harbour School community for 24 years. She works as the Technology Coordinator at the Baltimore campus. Amy enjoys teaching others about technology and learning new things too. She is the Technology Academy advisor and has presented at the MSE... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT
TBA

Neurodiversity & Inclusive Learning Support, PDP: Special Education

9:55am EDT

Listening Differently: The Hidden Language of Echolalia and Self Talk

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT

TBA

Listening Differently is an engaging, practical session designed to help educators better understand why students use self talk and echolalia—and how to respond effectively. Participants will explore the different types of echolalia and uncover the meaningful purposes behind these behaviors, from communication and processing to self-regulation and connection. Through dynamic videos and real-life...
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Speakers

Alexis Evans

Speech Language Pathologist, The Harbour School

Erin Jarvis

Speech Language Pathologist, The Harbour School

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT
TBA

Neurodiversity & Inclusive Learning Support, PDP: Special Education

9:55am EDT

From Defensive to Collaborative: Building Parent Partnerships That Actually Work

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT

TBA

This session focuses on building strong, collaborative relationships with families through meaningful communication and trust. We will explore strategies for: navigating difficult conversations with confidence, handling conflict professionally, and keeping parents informed without teacher burnout. The session will also highlight practical ways to help families feel respected, supported, and valued...
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Speakers

Kate McCann

Teacher, MS, The Harbour School

I am a special education teacher with experience supporting students with a wide range of academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs. I am passionate about creating positive, collaborative relationships between schools and families and helping students feel supported both in... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT
TBA

Parent & Family Collaboration

9:55am EDT

Proactive and Reactive Communication

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT

TBA

This session shares a practical, solutions-focused communication framework to help educators, service providers, and school staff navigate everyday professional challenges. Centered on keeping students at the heart of decision-making and viewing feedback as an opportunity to grow, participants will learn strategies to reduce professional friction before it starts. The session explores ways to...
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Speakers

Trevor Barton

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

Trevor has been a math and engineering teacher at The Harbour School for over 10 years. He is a true leader everyone looks to for direction or advice. In his free time, he enjoys brewing beer, smoking meat and woodworking. He brings his vast knowledge of 3D printing and engaging personality... Read More →

Tina Esser

Social Worker, The Harbour School

Tina has been a social worker at Harbour for 6 years, and has been working in education for 18 years. She is most proud of co-founding the Baltimore campus Gender and Sexualities Alliance in 2020, and providing training for Harbour staff on creating safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT
TBA

Parent & Family Collaboration

9:55am EDT

Homeownership 101 for Maryland Educators

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT

TBA

Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to figure out credit, saving money, down payment options, monthly payments, and whether you are even ready. In this presentation, Scott Eisgrau will walk you through the homebuying process in a clear, practical, no-pressure way. We will talk about how to prepare your credit, how much money you may really need, what...
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Speakers

Scott Eisgrau

Scott has worked in retail mortgage lending since 1990 after graduating with a degree in Communications from Towson University. Scott is currently a SVP and a Producing Branch Manager at Atlantic Coast Mortgage, consistently winning top honors and accolades for his customer service... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT
TBA

Teacher Wellness & Professional Growth

9:55am EDT

Keeping Pace: Strategies for Meeting IEP Deadlines

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT

TBA

Staying on top of IEP timelines can be challenging while balancing instruction, meetings, progress monitoring, and daily classroom responsibilities. This professional development session will equip special educators with strategies for organizing, prioritizing, and managing IEP paperwork to ensure compliance and reduce stress. Participants will explore efficient systems for tracking due dates,...
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Speakers

Tricia Davis

Student Services Coordinator, The Harbour School

11 years at Harbour, Baltimore Campus. Received my masters through the NDMU program.
First 2 years in lower school - as an assistant then lead teacher
Next - Middle school for 6 years (math-4yrs, math & science - 1 yr & social studies - 1yr) , 4 years as team leader.Now, it's been 4 years as Student Services Coordinator... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 9:55am - 10:40am EDT
TBA

Teacher Wellness & Professional Growth

10:50am EDT

Improv: The Secret to Pivoting in the Moment

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT

TBA

Rooted in the idea of flexibility, responsiveness, and creativity, improvisation helps teachers adapt in real time to student needs, foster a more inclusive classroom environment, and build stronger connections with learners. During the session, participants will explore core improvisational strategies such as active listening, “yes, and” thinking, and collaborative problem-solving. Through...
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Speakers

Kelli Kardell

Teacher - Performing Arts, The Harbour School

Kelli Kardell is the lead performing arts teacher at Baltimore. She has been a teacher for 6 years and been involved in theater for 20 years in some fashion. With a degree in production management and multiple acting classes focused on improvisation under her belt over the years she... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT
TBA

Classroom Management & Student Behavior

10:50am EDT

Should I Suspend For This?

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT

TBA

Knowing when to suspend a student can feel tricky. At Harbour, the staff member witnessing the behavior makes the decision if a behavior is severe enough to suspend a student. The handbook leaves staff a lot of leeway on when a behavior is suspendable based on circumstances that include student understanding. If managing the moment were not enough, suspending a student often includes "arm chair...
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Speakers

Renee Catlin

Program Director, Annapolis, The Harbour School

Renée is the Program Director at our Annapolis campus and is beginning her 29th year at Harbour Prior to that, she was a transition specialist, a high school teacher and our School Testing and Student Evaluation Coordinator. She lives on the Eastern Shore of Maryland with her sons... Read More →

Martha Schneider

Program Director, The Harbour School

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT
TBA

Classroom Management & Student Behavior

10:50am EDT

More Than Meets the Eye: Transforming Student Learning with Graphic Novels

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT

TBA

Discover how graphic novels can transform learning for students of all abilities! This conference will explore how graphic novels support differentiated instruction by increasing accessibility, boosting engagement, and helping diverse learners make meaningful connections with content. Whether you're new to using graphic novels in the classroom or looking for fresh ideas, you'll leave with...
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Speakers

Laura Carroll

Librarian / Media Assistant, The Harbour School

Laura has a Master of Library and Information Science from Syracuse University. She is an avid consumer of media (written, audio, visual, etc) and has a passion for teaching literacy in that area. Laura loves reading (of course), gardening, and playing non-violent video games. A mother... Read More →

Paul Kennedy

Assistant Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

Paul is a lead assistant teacher at Harbour, embarking on his 9th year of this journey. He loves bringing his background in the performing arts into the English classroom through expressive reading and character exploration. Paul is a Social Work graduate from UMBC and a fan of non-fiction... Read More →

Katie Kenner

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

Katie is in her 8th year of working as a part of Harbour’s High School English team. She loves reading stories and novels that leave the students wanting more, and a lasting impression for years to come. She is a fan of many types of genres, topics, and themes. Outside of the classroom... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT
TBA

Interactive Curriculum & Community Resources, PDP: Special Education

10:50am EDT

True Crime in the Classroom

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT

TBA

Join us for an interactive professional development session that explores how to bring the excitement of true crime investigations into the high school ELA classroom. Participants will learn how to design hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences that strengthen reading, writing, speaking, listening, and critical thinking skills. Through realistic crime-solving scenarios, students become...
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Speakers

Kate Bylen

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

Kate Bylen holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Notre Dame of Maryland University and joined the Harbour team in 2018. Before joining Harbour, she spent two years teaching Middle School English Language Arts in a Baltimore City Public School. During her first five years at Harbour... Read More →

Sarah Schmid

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

Sarah Schmid has a Master of Educational Studies from Johns Hopkins University. She joined the Harbour team in 2024 after 5 years teaching elementary and special education for Baltimore City Schools. She has a passion for teaching students the beauty of reading and literature, and... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT
TBA

Interactive Curriculum & Community Resources, PDP: Content and Pedagogy

10:50am EDT

Lost in Thought or Lost in Translation? Distinguishing Disengagement from Language Disorders in the Classroom

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT

TBA

When a student stares blankly at a worksheet, fails to follow multi-step directions, or struggles to initiate a task, they aren't necessarily unmotivated or distracted. For many students, that "blank stare" isn't a lack of attention— it is a sign of a language difficulty or disorder. This session is designed to help classroom staff identify the signs of receptive and expressive language...
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Speakers

Nadia Hasheminejad

Speech Language Pathologist, The Harbour School

Gabrielle Woska

Speech/Language Therapist, The Harbour School

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT
TBA

Neurodiversity & Inclusive Learning Support, PDP: Special Education

10:50am EDT

MSDE Certificate Endorsements

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT

TBA

With MSDE’s introduction of three new endorsements—Postsecondary Education, Career and Work Readiness, and Community Citizenship—students pursuing a certificate of completion with the Alternative Educational Framework now have a formal framework to showcase mastery of vital life skills. This session explores how Harbour’s program aligns with these new standards and how our students can...
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Speakers

Taylor Mirshahi

Curriculum Coordinator, The Harbour School

Taylor Mirshahi is currently the Annapolis Curriculum Coordinator. Before moving to the Annapolis campus 7 years ago, Taylor worked at the Baltimore campus, teaching middle school Reading and Writing for 8 years. Taylor loves music, reading, and traveling.

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT
TBA

Neurodiversity & Inclusive Learning Support, PDP: Content and Pedagogy

10:50am EDT

A Parent's Perspective from Parents of Special Needs Kids

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT

TBA

We will talk about our experience as parents of special needs kids and the incidents (good and bad) that are etched in our memories. How you can create a positive experience for families.

Speakers

Susan Bronstein

Administrative Assistant, The Harbour School

Susan Bronstein is the Administrative Assistant at the Baltimore Campus. Her daughter Sydney (now 29) graduated from Harbour in 2018 and went on to a day program for adults with Autism.

Todd Hargest

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

Todd is a Master Teacher and team leader in the Baltimore High School. Todd's daughter, Juliana is 11 was diagnosed with Autism and is non verbal. Juliana is a student at Kennedy Krieger.

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT
TBA

Parent & Family Collaboration

10:50am EDT

Homeownership 101 for Maryland Educators

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT

TBA

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT
TBA

Teacher Wellness & Professional Growth

10:50am EDT

Why Can't Leadership Do it's Job?

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT

TBA

Staff expects leadership to do its job. Why can't it? Participants will be asked to engage in a free ranging discussion of what they want leadership to do for them. Truthful answers will be given in response.

Speakers

Dr J

Executive Director, The Harbour School

Dr. Jacobs started The Harbour School in 1982. She was a child advocate for 3 years. Before that time she was a struggling bureaucrat with important jobs wondering when she would get to do something that mattered to kids. Oh and she was a history teacher and a special ed classroom... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 10:50am - 11:35am EDT
TBA

Teacher Wellness & Professional Growth

11:45am EDT

How to Shine Bright through the Chaos

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

This presentation explores practical strategies for effectively managing your classroom while also prioritizing your mental health and well-being. Participants will learn techniques for establishing positive classroom routines, managing challenging behaviors, setting realistic expectations, maintaining work-life balance, and reducing stress. The presentation emphasizes the importance of self-care,...
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Speakers

Dayna Bayer

Teacher, LS, The Harbour School

This is a brief bio.

Suzanne Eisgrau

Assistant Teacher, LS, The Harbour School

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Classroom Management & Student Behavior

11:45am EDT

Right or Relational?- Relationship building in the classroom

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

This talk will apply relationship therapy principles to classroom management. Identify losing and winning strategies for building relationships with students and coworkers. Learn how to address power struggles and choose being in relationship with others over being right.

Speakers

Sara Westendorff

Social Worker, The Harbour School

Sara Westendorff earned her Master’s in Social Work and Bachelor of Arts from West Virginia University, and holds a Graduate Certificate in LGBT Health Policy and Practice from The George Washington University. She has level one training through Relational Life Therapy. Sara joined... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Classroom Management & Student Behavior

11:45am EDT

Creating Windows of Opportunity Through the Use of Nature in Your Lessons

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

Are you looking for a fresh way to excite your students about your content? Do you have students who learn best when they are moving or who love being outside? Come to this session to learn about the many ways that you can engage your students in your content in a natural setting or through nature activities and topics. Recent research has found surprising ways that classes held outside or engaged...
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Speakers

Ted Neikirk

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

Stephen Paino

Vocational Manager - Landscaping, The Harbour School

Steve Paino has been the Landscaping teacher and leader of Wetlands village business at the Baltimore Campus since 2017. He has excited countless students about horticulture an landscaping careers and involved them in managing the landscapes at the Baltimore campus. Steve is the chair... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Interactive Curriculum & Community Resources, PDP: Content and Pedagogy

11:45am EDT

Special interests, Hyperfixations, and Fight Club

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

Wondering why so many of our students seem to have intense interests? Come learn about what special interests and hyperfixations are, and how important they are to our students lives. Hear from personal accounts from both a neurodivergent teacher with a hyperfixation, and from Harbour students themselves.

Professional Development Points (PDPs): Special Education

Speakers

Rhyan Haynie

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

Rhyan is the Lead Technology and engineering teacher at the Annapolis Harbour School campus. Neurodivergent themselves, Rhyan is passionate about authentic autism advocacy.

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Neurodiversity & Inclusive Learning Support, PDP: Special Education

11:45am EDT

Proactive Communication

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

Have you ever received an email from a parent that made you feel some kind of
way? We all have! Let's talk about how we can have proactive (not reactive)
conversations with parents/guardians. Collaboration with parents leads to better
success for our students and that's our overall goal, right? Right!

Speakers

Leigh Ann Fletcher

High School Teacher, The Harbour School

Leigh Ann Fletcher has worked here for 11 years and has worked in Social Studies, ELA and Math classes. Currently, a mom of two under 3 years old and pregnant. She finds that amid the chaos, there are always good moments that make it all worth it. A little positivity can go a long... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Parent & Family Collaboration

11:45am EDT

AI for Education

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

AI won’t replace teachers… but teachers who know how to use AI might just reclaim their time. Join us for a hands-on session where we’ll learn how to write effective AI akprompts, explore practical AI tools, and discover ways to make planning, writing, organizing, and everyday tasks a whole lot easier (and maybe even a little more fun).Professional Development Points (PDPs): Content and...
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Speakers

Amy Adams

Technology Coordinator, The Harbour School

Kim Harrison

Curriculum Coordinator, The Harbour School

I have worked at Harbour for over 20 years and I love it! I started at the Baltimore campus as an assistant teacher, taught high school science, middle school science and math before moving into Administration. I was an IEP Coordinator for 5 years, and I am currently the Curriculum... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Teacher Wellness & Professional Growth, PDP: Content and Pedagogy

11:45am EDT

Empty Cups Fill No one

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

How often do you take care of the kids at school -- nearly all day, nearly every day. How often are you taking care of yourself -- probably not enough. Let's talk about why self care is essential.

Speakers

Rhonda Ford

Clinical Coordinator/Pyschologist, The Harbour School

I have been the psychologist at the Baltimore campus since 2003 -- definitely seen a LOT and looking forward to answering questions and sharing experiences.

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Teacher Wellness & Professional Growth

11:45am EDT

Time Management - The art of multitasking

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

Teaching ways to manage your time efficiently in order to achieve success. Do you wait to the last minute to start something? Are you a procrastinator? I will teach you some strategies to stay above water when you feel like you are drowing.

Speakers

Ann Pascoe

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

This is Ann's tenth year as a high school teacher at the Baltimore campus. She teaches Social Studies, Economics, and Wellness and is deeply involved in campus life through a wide variety of programs and activities. Ann serves as the Baltimore Alumni Club Organizer, Harbour Magic... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Teacher Wellness & Professional Growth

11:45am EDT

Visualize It. Create It. Achieve It.

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

Join us for a creative and inspiring workshop focused on setting intentions for the school year or general year ahead. Participants will learn how to create a personalized vision board using Canva or traditional craft materials while reflecting on professional and personal goals, personal growth, wellness, and work-life balance. Leave with a meaningful visual reminder of the aspirations and...
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Speakers

Kate McCann

Teacher, MS, The Harbour School

Amanda Young

Teacher, HS, The Harbour School

I am a Lead Teacher at The Harbour School's Baltimore Campus and currently teach High School Mathematics. I am passionate about helping students build confidence in theirs abilities while making learning meaningful, engaging, and accessible. I enjoy blending creativity with education... Read More →

Thursday August 13, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Teacher Wellness & Professional Growth

12:30pm EDT

Lunch & Special Announcements

Thursday August 13, 2026 12:30pm - 3:00pm EDT

TBA

Thursday August 13, 2026 12:30pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

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