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Registration will open in mid-late July. Schedules are subject to change.
Friday, July 31
 

10:00am EDT

Bang On The Desk All Day
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this high-energy professional development session, teachers will discover how desk drumming with pool noodles can turn everyday classroom spaces into opportunities for engagement, collaboration, and fun. Participants will experience hands-on rhythm activities designed to boost student focus, build classroom community, support social-emotional learning, and provide meaningful movement breaks throughout the day.
Speakers
avatar for Liz Smith

Liz Smith

Music Teacher, Reidville Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3236

10:00am EDT

Grouping in the Secondary Classroom: Reducing Tech Dependence via Collaborative Work Designs
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Have you struggled to incorporate group work in your Secondary Classroom? Do your students sit at desks or even tables that foster isolation rather than collaboration? Do you find yourself relying on AI or Ed Tech software as a substitute for collaboration? Then this is the session for you! In this workshop, you will learn not only why face-to-face group work is beneficial, but also how it can easily be incorporated at the Middle and High School levels. No complicated data, no long lectures, just simple strategies that WORK!
Speakers
avatar for Nicholas Verity

Nicholas Verity

Social Studies Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
1319

10:00am EDT

A Deeper Dive into Panorama Intervention Plans
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will explore how to create and update intervention plans for interventionists and classroom teachers to support the MTSS process. Participants will practice entering data into the platform and learning how to make decisions based on the data entered into Panorama.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Williams

Katie Williams

Literacy Coach, Duncan Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3218

10:00am EDT

Bridging Into Musical Middle School
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Elementary music teachers will discuss ways to collaborate with their middle school programs, ensuring students are prepared to access music classes at the next level. They will discuss strategies and activities to bridge the gap from elementary to middle school.
Speakers
avatar for Suzanne Hughes

Suzanne Hughes

Music Teacher, River Ridge Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Orchestra Room (2424)

10:00am EDT

District 5 Bands into the Future!
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Collaborative learning and vision casting PD.
Speakers
avatar for Chris Moss

Chris Moss

Director of Bands, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Band Room (2501)

10:00am EDT

Learner Goals and Strategies for Choral Classes in District Five
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Sessions focusing on using data to drive decision-making in the choral classroom.

Teachers will share collaborative lesson plans for teaching different sets of choral skills to students. These lesson plans will cover the key areas needed to develop a successful choir program and grow student musicianship.
Speakers
avatar for Nathaniel Gunter

Nathaniel Gunter

Chorus Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Chorus Room (2422)

10:00am EDT

Navigating Math Curriculum in K-5
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
New math teachers in District 5, this session is for you! This session is designed to help teachers feel confident and prepared for the start of the school year. Participants will explore district math resources, pacing guides, and the Reveal platform while learning practical ways to plan and navigate math instruction in K-5 classrooms. 
Speakers
avatar for Katie Farr

Katie Farr

Math Instructional Coach, Reidville Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3322

10:00am EDT

Pathways with a Purpose: From Middle School Exploration to High School Completers with Industry Credentials
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
We’re not asking middle schoolers to choose a career—we’re giving them the chance to discover what’s possible before high school asks them to choose a direction.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Gordon

Heather Gordon

Director of Secondary Education, District Office

avatar for Jeff Jenkins

Jeff Jenkins

Director of Federal/Gifted Programs and School Counselors, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
1321

10:00am EDT

Awareness: Sex Trafficking 101
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Established in 2012 in Greenville County, Switch is a grassroots, non-profit organization fighting sex trafficking in Upstate communities by shining a light on exploitation and offering restoration to survivors. Switch provides five areas of outreach: Awareness, Prevention, Demand, Intervention, and Restoration. Since Switch's inception, 400 individuals have received assistance through intervention and restoration services. Greenville and Spartanburg counties rank in the top 5 counties in South Carolina for sex trafficking and exploitation. This issue cannot be ignored.
Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3317

10:00am EDT

Getting Started the D5 Way
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Attend this session to learn more about what makes Spartanburg Five unique. We'll explore how we do things in D5, the values and expectations that guide our work, and what professionalism looks like for educators in 2026. You'll leave with a better understanding of our culture, how to build strong relationships, and how to represent yourself and our district professionally.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Williams

Ashley Williams

Coordinator of Induction and Mentoring, District Office
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3352

10:00am EDT

My Teaching Certificate Expires This Year. What Do I Do?
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this session, we will review the requirements and procedures for renewing a South Carolina Teaching Certificate. Other topics to be addressed are the formative evaluation process and how the EAA affects teacher licensure and renewals.
Speakers
avatar for Matt Wofford

Matt Wofford

Coordinator of Training and Teacher Quality, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
1301

10:00am EDT

From Rubric to Revision: Using MagicSchool AI to Improve Student Writing
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Participants will learn how to input the South Carolina Writing Rubric into MagicSchool AI so students can receive standards-aligned feedback, targeted revision suggestions, and an estimated writing score—all in real time.

Rather than replacing teacher feedback, this course focuses on using AI to enhance the writing process, allowing students to independently reflect on their work, revise with purpose, and better understand rubric expectations. Teachers will explore how AI-generated feedback can promote student ownership, increase revision quality, and save instructional time.
Speakers
avatar for Lyndsey Elliott

Lyndsey Elliott

Literacy Coach, Lyman Elementary

avatar for Katie Hedden

Katie Hedden

Literacy Coach, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3238

10:00am EDT

Launch Zearn Math
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Launch Zearn Math is a foundational training designed for educators new to Zearn in grades K–5 and 6–8. Participants will explore how Zearn supports all students in engaging with grade-level math through built-in scaffolds and purposeful digital lesson design. Educators will learn how to align Zearn with their core curriculum, establish strong implementation routines at the start of the year, monitor student progress toward recommended usage goals, and use data to provide in-the-moment support for students. This session is the first in a two-part foundational training series.
Speakers
JM

Jennifer Madden

Partner Success, Zearn
Jennifer Madden, a partner success manager at Zearn, brings more than 20 years of experience in education as a teacher and school administrator in South Carolina. Most recently, she served as principal of Woodmont Middle School, where she led schoolwide academic initiatives and supported... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2355

10:00am EDT

Planning and Teaching with Canva
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Using Canva to support planning and instruction
Speakers
avatar for Katie Kinard

Katie Kinard

Literacy Coach, Wellford Academy

avatar for Bill Neyman

Bill Neyman

Math Coach, Wellford Academy

avatar for Hailey Maus

Hailey Maus

Interventionist, Wellford Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3342

10:00am EDT

Using AI in the Math Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Students trying to use AI to solve math problems is not new. But what if we could teach students to use AI responsibly by showing them the strengths and weaknesses? AI doesn't always do math correctly, so how can we use it to our benefit without just accepting its answers as truth every single time? 
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Mathews

Michelle Mathews

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
1307

10:00am EDT

Your New Favorite Teacher Websites that Drive Class Engagement
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Using PhET, Amplify Classroom, and Wayground to enhance learning in the classroom
Speakers
avatar for Laura Kate Lane

Laura Kate Lane

Math Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2232

10:00am EDT

Building Resilience and Connection: Coping Skills, Social-Emotional Learning, and Crisis Communication in the Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation equips educators, school staff, counselors, and support professionals with practical strategies to strengthen students’ emotional regulation, peer relationships, and communication skills during everyday challenges and crisis situations. Participants will explore classroom-based coping skills that help students manage stress, anxiety, frustration, and emotional dysregulation while promoting resilience and self-awareness.

The session also highlights the role of social-emotional learning (SEL) in fostering positive peer interactions, empathy, conflict resolution, and inclusive classroom culture.
In addition, the presentation focuses on effective communication strategies for crisis intervention, including de-escalation techniques, active listening, trauma-informed responses, and supportive language that promotes safety and emotional stability.

Participants will leave with actionable tools, classroom activities, and intervention strategies designed to support student well-being, strengthen school climate, and improve student outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Mercedes Moye-Nesbitt

Mercedes Moye-Nesbitt

Stepping Stones Mental Health Counselor, Spartanburg District 5
My name is Mercedes Moye’-Nesbitt, and I am the Mental Health Counselor from The Stepping Stones Group.

I am a graduate of Capella University with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked as a therapist, specializing in care for children and adolescents, for more than 5 years.  My approach is rooted in building a strong, trusting relationship with both the children... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2247

10:00am EDT

School Counselors and teachers working together to support student success
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
School counselors support academic achievement, student well-being, family communication, intervention planning, and teacher collaboration through data-informed and student-centered practices.
Speakers
avatar for Chelsea Eubanks

Chelsea Eubanks

School Counselor, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3305

10:00am EDT

Relational Capacity and Classroom Culture
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session focuses on strengthening teachers’ relational capacity to create a positive, engaging, and student-centered classroom culture. Grounded in AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) strategies, participants will explore how intentional relationship-building directly impacts student achievement, motivation, and behavior.

Educators will engage in interactive AVID-based activities, such as collaborative structures, focused note-taking, and relationship-centered check-ins, that can be implemented immediately in their classrooms. The session emphasizes creating a culture of trust, high expectations, and student voice, while also modeling strategies that promote equity and active engagement.

Participants will leave with practical tools to build meaningful connections with students, establish a supportive classroom environment, and foster a culture where all learners feel valued, challenged, and empowered to succeed.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Justus

Sarah Justus

AVID Elective Teacher/Health, James F. Byrnes High

avatar for Ashley Shearsmith

Ashley Shearsmith

Science Dept. Chair, Science/AVID Elective Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
1309

10:00am EDT

Required PD with K-2 Self Contained Teachers & K-2 Self Contained Paraprofessionals & SLPs---Augmentative & Alternative Communication in D5
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Over the past few years, District 5 has diligently been improving its Augmentative and Alternative Communication knowledge and options for our students who struggle with communication.  In this course, participants will learn about the available AAC resources, how to implement them in classes, and how to capitalize on our students' learning opportunities.
Speakers
avatar for Wendy Hite

Wendy Hite

Director of Special Services, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Media Center (3343)

10:00am EDT

What to do when saying "Calm Down" is not enough?
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Have you ever been in a situation with a student who is truly unregulated and has flipped their lid?  You said "Calm Down" or "What do you need?" and they still can't get back to zero.  We will talk about and model what to do next before calling for the cavalry.  You will learn what to do next using visuals, grounding techniques, and even steps to take before the un-regulation begins.  Teachers will walk away with effective research-based strategies to better manage those chaotic moments in the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Nancy Lingle

Nancy Lingle

STARS teacher (Special Education), Berry Shoals Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3306

10:00am EDT

Building a Culture of Literacy: Simple Ideas That Make Reading Matter
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session focuses on building a strong, joyful reading culture in elementary classrooms through simple, high-impact literacy experiences that go beyond traditional reading logs and worksheets. Participants will explore practical, classroom-ready strategies that increase student engagement and ownership in reading and writing, including book talks, reading challenges, student response journals, audio storytelling, book tastings, and student-created media such as podcasts and nonfiction projects.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Koon

Elizabeth Koon

Media Specialist, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3344

10:00am EDT

Learning Math Through Music & Movement
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
(Best for grades K-2)
Come move with us! Teachers will learn about and receive music and movement resources to help their students make more meaningful math connections.
Speakers
avatar for Leah Bomar

Leah Bomar

Kindergarten Teacher, Lyman Elementary
Bomar
avatar for Ginny Counterman

Ginny Counterman

Math Coach, Lyman Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3212

10:00am EDT

Teaching in Circles (The good kind)
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover practical strategies for using small groups and rotation stations to meet the diverse needs of all students. This workshop will explore how stations can be used to provide targeted remediation, meaningful extension opportunities, and differentiated instruction. Participants will learn effective ways to organize, manage, and streamline station rotations while gaining ready-to-use, low- to no-prep activity ideas designed for busy teachers. Walk away with tools and strategies to make small-group instruction more purposeful, efficient, engaging, and impactful.
Speakers
HB

Heather Bowles

7th Grade Science Teacher, D.R. Hill Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2239

10:00am EDT

Are You "Teacher-Tired"? Revive Your Love of Teaching!
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Do you need your "Teaching Cup" refilled?  Come learn concepts and strategies to help defeat burnout and reestablish your love for teaching.
Speakers
avatar for Brook Wiant

Brook Wiant

Math Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

avatar for Christy Hewitt

Christy Hewitt

Instructional Coach/AVID Site Coordinator, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
1303

10:00am EDT

AVID 101: An Introduction and Overview
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session provides educators with an overview of the  Elective and its role in preparing students for college, career, and life readiness. Participants will explore the foundational components of the AVID Elective for grades 6–12, including WICOR strategies (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading), Focused Note-Taking, AVID Tutorials, student goal setting, and college/career/military readiness practices. The session will also highlight how the AVID Elective supports “academic middle” students by building academic confidence, leadership skills, and a college-going mindset. Teachers will gain practical strategies and insight into how AVID methodologies can support student success across all content areas.
Speakers
avatar for Travis Watson

Travis Watson

AVID Elective Teacher and Site Coordinator, Abner Creek Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2245

10:00am EDT

Beyond Memorization: Teaching Historical Thinking through Inquiry and Empathy
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
History is not just memorizing dates, places, and old dead guys' names. It is a skill that requires inquiry, critical thinking, and empathy. Come learn about some strategies to increase engagement and historical thinking skills in all grade levels!
Speakers
avatar for William McDonald

William McDonald

8th Grade Social Studies, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2238

10:00am EDT

Daily Practices to Build Strong Mathematicians
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session focuses on building engaging daily math block routines that develop strong mathematical thinkers. Participants will explore six effective instructional practices that include number sense routines, number talks, spiral review, fluency practice, small group instruction, and guided practice, and learn how each supports student reasoning, engagement, and meaningful math discussions. Teachers will also plan purposeful math block structures that incorporate interactive practices to strengthen student learning and participation.
Speakers
DH

Dana Hodge

Math Instructional Coach, Tyger River Elementary

avatar for Amanda Redfern

Amanda Redfern

Math Instructional Coach, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3220

10:00am EDT

From Memorizing to Mapping: Rethinking How We Teach Heart Words
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
The science of reading has challenged how we teach students to learn high-frequency words.  This means we must shift from teaching students to memorize words to using orthographic mapping to help them connect sounds, spelling patterns, and meaning.  Participants should leave this session with an understanding of what brain research says about effective high-frequency word instruction, clear definitions of heart words, sight words, and high-frequency words, and practical teaching strategies to make word learning stick.
Speakers
avatar for Shauna Bartel

Shauna Bartel

Literacy Coach, Reidville Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3348

10:00am EDT

From Scribbles to Strategy: Math Notebooking in Action
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
What if your students could see their thinking, track their growth, and own their learning? Math notebooking transforms the way students engage with math by making their thinking visible and meaningful.  In this session, you’ll discover how structured math notebooks help students record strategies, capture key processes, and create personalized references they can use during classwork, homework, and test prep. When students actively do the work, they are writing, modeling, and reflecting - which deepens their understanding and builds lasting skills!  Come learn simple, effective ways to bring math notebooking to life in your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Heidi Beers

Heidi Beers

GT Teacher grades 3-5

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3214

10:00am EDT

How To: Teacher-Directed Intervention Plans
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This course will help teachers walk away with an understanding of how to set goals, create long-range plans, and carry out those plans for students who qualify for "Teacher Directed" Interventions, or even for a targeted small group for a specific skill.
Speakers
avatar for Stacy Green

Stacy Green

Math Interventionist, Lyman Elementary

SW

Samantha Westbrook

Math Interventionist, Lyman Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3318

10:00am EDT

Instructional Cha-Chas: Chunking for Better Understanding
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Based on the neuroscience of learning, Teaching with the Instructional Cha-Chas focuses on the 4 components needed to advance your students MORE than one grade level per academic year. This introductory course covers the concept of chunking information to improve retention and retrieval. Although the book is for educators in grades K-8, this practice is suitable for educators in grades 4-12, across all content areas and ability levels. Never stress again when you see the word "chunk" in an IEP or 504. After this course, you'll be looking for more things to chunk! This session is the first of the 4 strategies. The Chew component will be taught by Kelly Jewett later in the day.
Speakers
AW

Ashley Watts

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2234

10:00am EDT

Making Small Groups Work in Secondary Classrooms
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will focus on how to effectively implement differentiated small-group instruction in secondary classrooms. Teachers will learn practical strategies for grouping students, managing rotations, and designing targeted tasks that meet diverse learning needs. Participants will leave with a simple plan they can apply immediately in their own classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Paula Quinby

Paula Quinby

Instructional Coach, Abner Creek Middle

avatar for Sarah Thompson

Sarah Thompson

Instructional Coach, D.R. Hill Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2236

10:00am EDT

Math Alive in Grades 3 - 5: Using Manipulatives to Build Conceptual Understanding
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Hands-on math in upper elementary grades can be a lost art. Our session will focus on incorporating manipulatives into our instruction in order to build conceptual understanding. We will use a variety of hands-on manipulatives to build upon strategies highlighted in the South Carolina State Department's Modern Classroom Project.
Speakers
avatar for Mary Jett

Mary Jett

Math Interventionist, Duncan Elementary
Jett
avatar for Brian Murray

Brian Murray

Math Coach, Duncan Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3216
  Teaching & Learning

10:00am EDT

Notice and Note- What even is nonfiction?
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
The presenter will guide participants in a thoughtful dialogue about nonfiction and how we, as educators, can help students engage more deeply with nonfiction texts. Nonfiction is not simply “not fake.” As a genre, nonfiction extends beyond informational texts to include arguments, opinions, perspectives, and real-world issues. To develop responsible, critical readers, we must help students understand what nonfiction is, how it works, and how to evaluate the information they encounter. During this session, we will explore nonfiction stances and signposts that help students build the skills needed to read, question, and comprehend nonfiction with purpose.
Speakers
avatar for Jordan Day

Jordan Day

Teacher 5th grade, Berry Shoals Elementary
Day
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3320

10:00am EDT

Write On! Growing Young Authors
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking for practical ways to strengthen writing instruction in your K–2 classroom? This engaging PD session will show you how to bring the writing process to life through simple, effective strategies that support all learners—from emerging writers to more advanced students. You’ll walk away with ready-to-use tools for each stage of writing, ideas to boost student confidence and independence, and techniques that make writing more manageable and meaningful in your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Stanton

Ashley Stanton

Reading Interventionist, Berry Shoals Elementary

KW

Kayla Weber

1st Grade Teachers, Berry Shoals Elementary

HA

Heather Atwood

1st Grade Teachers, Berry Shoals Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3232

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

Imagine Learning
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2389

10:00am EDT

Learning.com
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Kevin Combs

Kevin Combs

SC Program Manager, Learning.com
Kevin Combs is a visionary leader at the intersection of education and technology and serves as Key Accounts Manager for South Carolina at Learning.com. With 30+ years across industry and public education, he blends technical acumen, instructional innovation, and strategic leadership... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2387

10:00am EDT

MagicSchool
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Richard Atkins

Richard Atkins

Customer Success Manager, MagicSchool
Richard Atkins is a seasoned educator and former middle school principal with over 10 years of experience in K–12 education. He is passionate about educational equity, innovation, and lifelong learning.
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2385

10:00am EDT

Panorama
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
TS

Traci Shigley

Panorama Education
Traci is a results‑driven Professional Learning Director who empowers educators to elevate student achievement and well‑being through strategic coaching and high‑quality professional development. She brings proven expertise in program management, professional learning systems... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2390

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

Promethean
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Ernie Faulkenberry

Ernie Faulkenberry

Vendor, Promethean
Changing the way we teach and collaborate
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2392

10:00am EDT

SCLearn & The Instruction HUB
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Paige Mitchell

Paige Mitchell

Office of Instructional Materials, South Carolina Department of Education
Paige Mitchell is the iHub Coordinator for the Office of Instructional Materials at the South Carolina Department of Education. In her role, Paige supports districts and schools in integrating technology into their classrooms through the SC Instruction Hub.
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
2218

10:00am EDT

Purposeful Playful Mathematics in Pre School
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This training will focus participants on being intentional while nurturing and engaging each student in his/her development of mathematical thinking, reasoning, and problem solving within data analysis, geometry, and measurement. This session will build an awareness of how development occurs through counting, sorting, classifying, and later patterning as well as how to scaffold students’ development of mathematical concepts through hands-on, purposeful play scenarios throughout the preschool day to build an understanding of geometry and measurement, focusing specifically on 2-D and 3-D shapes as well as weight using balance scales. Participants will leave with a goal and next steps in how to intentionally promote, encourage, support, and expose children to math in different everyday playful learning situations and activities for each child in their care.
Speakers
JS

Jennifer Stock

Early Learning Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Jennifer Stock is an early childhood educator with two decades of experience supporting young learners through relationship‑based, student‑centered instruction. She has served in both early childhood and elementary settings, designing engaging play‑based learning and partnering... Read More →
AW

Anna Williams

Early Learning Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 11:50am EDT
3319

10:00am EDT

Explicit Instruction
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Participants will learn quick, effective, and engaging strategies to help students retain information and to make the classroom an exciting and productive place.  You will walk away with strategies you can easily put in place, starting on Day 1!  All strategies will beautifully align with AVID strategies as well.
Speakers
BD

Brittany Daniels

Literacy Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Brittany Daniels is a National Board Certified educator and two-time graduate of the University of South Carolina with over 21 years of dedicated service to students and educators. After spending a decade in the elementary classroom, she transitioned into the role of school-based... Read More →
AG

Audrey Goninan

Literacy Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Audrey Goninan, M.Ed., is a Literacy Specialist with the Office of Instructional Supports for the South Carolina Department of Education.  In this role, she supports schools and districts in the Upstate region, with a focus on building teachers' knowledge and implementation of evidence-based... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 11:50am EDT
3315

11:00am EDT

Bang On The Desk All Day
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this high-energy professional development session, teachers will discover how desk drumming with pool noodles can turn everyday classroom spaces into opportunities for engagement, collaboration, and fun. Participants will experience hands-on rhythm activities designed to boost student focus, build classroom community, support social-emotional learning, and provide meaningful movement breaks throughout the day.
Speakers
avatar for Liz Smith

Liz Smith

Music Teacher, Reidville Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3236

11:00am EDT

Grouping in the Secondary Classroom: Reducing Tech Dependence via Collaborative Work Designs
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Have you struggled to incorporate group work in your Secondary Classroom? Do your students sit at desks or even tables that foster isolation rather than collaboration? Do you find yourself relying on AI or Ed Tech software as a substitute for collaboration? Then this is the session for you! In this workshop, you will learn not only why face-to-face group work is beneficial, but also how it can easily be incorporated at the Middle and High School levels. No complicated data, no long lectures, just simple strategies that WORK!
Speakers
avatar for Nicholas Verity

Nicholas Verity

Social Studies Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
1319

11:00am EDT

K-12 Visual Art Collaboration/Beginning of the Year Meeting
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
D5 Visual Arts educators will have the opportunity to collaborate through this interactive professional development session. Arts teachers will discuss new Visual and Performing Arts standards and share collaborative grade-level strategies. Through shared lesson examples, discussion, and collaborative learning opportunities, participants will leave prepared to begin the school year with alignment, creativity, and a strong sense of community across the district.
Speakers
avatar for Raelyn Chambliss

Raelyn Chambliss

Art Teacher, Fine Arts Department Chair, James F. Byrnes High


Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Art Room (2409)

11:00am EDT

Making Thinking Visible: The 5 Phases of AVID Notetaking in Math
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Participants will explore best practices for effective math notetaking, including strategies for capturing mathematical thinking, encouraging collaboration and reflection, and helping students move beyond copying procedures to developing conceptual understanding. The session will include hands-on activities, real classroom examples, collaborative discussions, and opportunities for teachers to apply strategies directly to their own instructional practices.
Speakers
avatar for Kamesha Gilmore

Kamesha Gilmore

Math & AVID Elective Teacher, Math Department Chair, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
1307

11:00am EDT

Getting Started the D5 Way
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Attend this session to learn more about what makes Spartanburg Five unique. We'll explore how we do things in D5, the values and expectations that guide our work, and what professionalism looks like for educators in 2026. You'll leave with a better understanding of our culture, how to build strong relationships, and how to represent yourself and our district professionally.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Williams

Ashley Williams

Coordinator of Induction and Mentoring, District Office
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3352

11:00am EDT

Setting the Stage for Success
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
The Fine Arts Center is a shared space that supports learning, creativity, performance, and student growth across District 5. This session will help staff understand how to effectively use the facility by reviewing scheduling procedures, supervision expectations, technical support processes, and operational guidelines. Together, we can create a positive and professional experience for every student and program that uses the Fine Arts Center.
Speakers
avatar for Austin Sanders

Austin Sanders

Coordinator of Media and A/V Systems, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Fine Arts Center (2540)

11:00am EDT

Launch Zearn Math
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Launch Zearn Math is a foundational training designed for educators new to Zearn in grades K–5 and 6–8. Participants will explore how Zearn supports all students in engaging with grade-level math through built-in scaffolds and purposeful digital lesson design. Educators will learn how to align Zearn with their core curriculum, establish strong implementation routines at the start of the year, monitor student progress toward recommended usage goals, and use data to provide in-the-moment support for students. This session is the first in a two-part foundational training series.
Speakers
JM

Jennifer Madden

Partner Success, Zearn
Jennifer Madden, a partner success manager at Zearn, brings more than 20 years of experience in education as a teacher and school administrator in South Carolina. Most recently, she served as principal of Woodmont Middle School, where she led schoolwide academic initiatives and supported... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2355

11:00am EDT

Practical AI in Schoology: Getting Started with PowerBuddy
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
You have limited time, diverse learners, and constant demands for meaningful feedback. What if you could plan faster without lowering quality?

In this session, you will see how Schoology’s PowerBuddy AI can support real classroom work in grades 3–12. Through a live, start-to-finish demonstration, you will learn how to turn a learning objective into an assignment, differentiate it for multiple levels, and generate aligned assessment and feedback in minutes.

This session keeps the focus on what works in practice. You will learn simple prompting strategies, see how to refine AI-generated content, and explore examples from ELA, math, science, and social studies.

You will leave with a clear workflow, ready-to-use prompts, and ideas you can apply immediately in your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for David Kalk

David Kalk

Instructional Technology Coach, District Office
David Kalk is an instructional technology coach and educational leader with more than two decades of experience helping teachers create authentic, student-centered learning experiences through thoughtful technology integration. He serves as a District Instructional Technology Coach... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2220

11:00am EDT

Your New Favorite Teacher Websites that Drive Class Engagement
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Using PhET, Amplify Classroom, and Wayground to enhance learning in the classroom
Speakers
avatar for Laura Kate Lane

Laura Kate Lane

Math Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2232

11:00am EDT

Building Resilience and Connection: Coping Skills, Social-Emotional Learning, and Crisis Communication in the Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation equips educators, school staff, counselors, and support professionals with practical strategies to strengthen students’ emotional regulation, peer relationships, and communication skills during everyday challenges and crisis situations. Participants will explore classroom-based coping skills that help students manage stress, anxiety, frustration, and emotional dysregulation while promoting resilience and self-awareness.

The session also highlights the role of social-emotional learning (SEL) in fostering positive peer interactions, empathy, conflict resolution, and inclusive classroom culture.
In addition, the presentation focuses on effective communication strategies for crisis intervention, including de-escalation techniques, active listening, trauma-informed responses, and supportive language that promotes safety and emotional stability.

Participants will leave with actionable tools, classroom activities, and intervention strategies designed to support student well-being, strengthen school climate, and improve student outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Mercedes Moye-Nesbitt

Mercedes Moye-Nesbitt

Stepping Stones Mental Health Counselor, Spartanburg District 5
My name is Mercedes Moye’-Nesbitt, and I am the Mental Health Counselor from The Stepping Stones Group.

I am a graduate of Capella University with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have worked as a therapist, specializing in care for children and adolescents, for more than 5 years.  My approach is rooted in building a strong, trusting relationship with both the children... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2247

11:00am EDT

Relational Capacity and Classroom Culture
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session focuses on strengthening teachers’ relational capacity to create a positive, engaging, and student-centered classroom culture. Grounded in AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) strategies, participants will explore how intentional relationship-building directly impacts student achievement, motivation, and behavior.

Educators will engage in interactive AVID-based activities, such as collaborative structures, focused note-taking, and relationship-centered check-ins, that can be implemented immediately in their classrooms. The session emphasizes creating a culture of trust, high expectations, and student voice, while also modeling strategies that promote equity and active engagement.

Participants will leave with practical tools to build meaningful connections with students, establish a supportive classroom environment, and foster a culture where all learners feel valued, challenged, and empowered to succeed.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Shearsmith

Ashley Shearsmith

Science Dept. Chair, Science/AVID Elective Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy

avatar for Sarah Justus

Sarah Justus

AVID Elective Teacher/Health, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
1309

11:00am EDT

The Problem With Math is English: Supporting Language in Math Classrooms
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Based on the book The Problem With Math is English, our presentation will focus on the language and comprehension challenges that many learners face and that impede their success. Students who struggle with vocabulary, meaning, syntax, and/or context due to language, literacy, or other learning barriers are at a disadvantage. The session will focus on ways to reduce the language load while maintaining mathematical rigor.
Speakers
avatar for Erin Dinger

Erin Dinger

7th grade math teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

avatar for Sarah Green

Sarah Green

6th grade math teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
1301

11:00am EDT

Building a Culture of Literacy: Simple Ideas That Make Reading Matter
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session focuses on building a strong, joyful reading culture in elementary classrooms through simple, high-impact literacy experiences that go beyond traditional reading logs and worksheets. Participants will explore practical, classroom-ready strategies that increase student engagement and ownership in reading and writing, including book talks, reading challenges, student response journals, audio storytelling, book tastings, and student-created media such as podcasts and nonfiction projects.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Koon

Elizabeth Koon

Media Specialist, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3344

11:00am EDT

Hands on Math: Building Skills Through Play and Practice
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session focuses on how math games can be used as a powerful instructional tool in the elementary classroom. Rather than viewing games as an “extra,” this session highlights how they can provide meaningful, standards-aligned practice that builds both conceptual understanding and fluency. Through hands-on experiences, teachers will explore a variety of simple, low-prep math games that actively engage students while reinforcing key skills.

Participants will learn how to intentionally select and implement games that align with grade-level standards, support small group instruction, and encourage mathematical thinking and discussion. The session emphasizes practical strategies for incorporating games into daily routines—such as math centers, small groups, and intervention time—without adding much unnecessary planning or complexity.

By the end of the session, teachers will leave with ready-to-use game ideas, a clear understanding of how games support student learning, and actionable steps for bringing more engagement and purposeful practice into their math instruction. The goal is to make math both effective and enjoyable, helping students build confidence while developing essential skills through play and consistent practice.
Speakers
KG

Kara Gillespie

4th Grade Math Teacher, Tyger River Elementary

DH

Dana Hodge

Math Instructional Coach, Tyger River Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3212

11:00am EDT

Teaching in Circles (The good kind)
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover practical strategies for using small groups and rotation stations to meet the diverse needs of all students. This workshop will explore how stations can be used to provide targeted remediation, meaningful extension opportunities, and differentiated instruction. Participants will learn effective ways to organize, manage, and streamline station rotations while gaining ready-to-use, low- to no-prep activity ideas designed for busy teachers. Walk away with tools and strategies to make small-group instruction more purposeful, efficient, engaging, and impactful.
Speakers
HB

Heather Bowles

7th Grade Science Teacher, D.R. Hill Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2239

11:00am EDT

Are You "Teacher-Tired"? Revive Your Love of Teaching!
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Do you need your "Teaching Cup" refilled?  Come learn concepts and strategies to help defeat burnout and reestablish your love for teaching.
Speakers
avatar for Christy Hewitt

Christy Hewitt

Instructional Coach/AVID Site Coordinator, Florence Chapel Middle

avatar for Brook Wiant

Brook Wiant

Math Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
1303

11:00am EDT

Accountable Talk Across Content Areas
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Building classroom discussion skills in all subjects with turn-and-talk structures, math and ELA discourse routines, and anchor charts for discussion norms.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Kinard

Katie Kinard

Literacy Coach, Wellford Academy

avatar for Bill Neyman

Bill Neyman

Math Coach, Wellford Academy

avatar for Emily Marshall

Emily Marshall

4th Grade Math Teacher, Wellford Academy

MW

Mollie Warren

4th Grade ELA Teacher, Wellford Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3342

11:00am EDT

AVID 101: An Introduction and Overview
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session provides educators with an overview of the  Elective and its role in preparing students for college, career, and life readiness. Participants will explore the foundational components of the AVID Elective for grades 6–12, including WICOR strategies (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading), Focused Note-Taking, AVID Tutorials, student goal setting, and college/career/military readiness practices. The session will also highlight how the AVID Elective supports “academic middle” students by building academic confidence, leadership skills, and a college-going mindset. Teachers will gain practical strategies and insight into how AVID methodologies can support student success across all content areas.
Speakers
avatar for Travis Watson

Travis Watson

AVID Elective Teacher and Site Coordinator, Abner Creek Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2245

11:00am EDT

Beyond Memorization: Teaching Historical Thinking through Inquiry and Empathy
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
History is not just memorizing dates, places, and old dead guys' names. It is a skill that requires inquiry, critical thinking, and empathy. Come learn about some strategies to increase engagement and historical thinking skills in all grade levels!
Speakers
avatar for William McDonald

William McDonald

8th Grade Social Studies, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2238

11:00am EDT

Instructional Cha-Chas: Chunking for Better Understanding
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Based on the neuroscience of learning, Teaching with the Instructional Cha-Chas focuses on the 4 components needed to advance your students MORE than one grade level per academic year. This introductory course covers the concept of chunking information to improve retention and retrieval. Although the book is for educators in grades K-8, this practice is suitable for educators in grades 4-12, across all content areas and ability levels. Never stress again when you see the word "chunk" in an IEP or 504. After this course, you'll be looking for more things to chunk! This session is the first of the 4 strategies. The Chew component will be taught by Kelly Jewett later in the day.
Speakers
AW

Ashley Watts

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2234

11:00am EDT

Making Small Groups Work in Secondary Classrooms
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will focus on how to effectively implement differentiated small-group instruction in secondary classrooms. Teachers will learn practical strategies for grouping students, managing rotations, and designing targeted tasks that meet diverse learning needs. Participants will leave with a simple plan they can apply immediately in their own classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Paula Quinby

Paula Quinby

Instructional Coach, Abner Creek Middle

avatar for Sarah Thompson

Sarah Thompson

Instructional Coach, D.R. Hill Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2236

11:00am EDT

Math Alive in Grades 3 - 5: Using Manipulatives to Build Conceptual Understanding
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Hands-on math in upper elementary grades can be a lost art. Our session will focus on incorporating manipulatives into our instruction in order to build conceptual understanding. We will use a variety of hands-on manipulatives to build upon strategies highlighted in the South Carolina State Department's Modern Classroom Project.
Speakers
avatar for Mary Jett

Mary Jett

Math Interventionist, Duncan Elementary
Jett
avatar for Brian Murray

Brian Murray

Math Coach, Duncan Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3216
  Teaching & Learning

11:00am EDT

Mystery at Morpheme Manor: Where Prefixes, Suffixes, and Roots Reveal the Clues to Meaning
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this interactive workshop, teachers of grades 3–5 will explore the importance of morphology in developing strong readers and writers. Participants will learn practical strategies for teaching prefixes, suffixes, and Greek and Latin roots through engaging, hands-on activities they can immediately implement in their classrooms. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use ideas and resources to strengthen vocabulary, word analysis, spelling, and reading comprehension.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Cassidy

Heather Cassidy

4th Grade Teacher, Tyger River Elementary
avatar for Emily Cox

Emily Cox

4th Grade Teacher, Tyger River Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3346

11:00am EDT

Notice and Note- What even is nonfiction?
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
The presenter will guide participants in a thoughtful dialogue about nonfiction and how we, as educators, can help students engage more deeply with nonfiction texts. Nonfiction is not simply “not fake.” As a genre, nonfiction extends beyond informational texts to include arguments, opinions, perspectives, and real-world issues. To develop responsible, critical readers, we must help students understand what nonfiction is, how it works, and how to evaluate the information they encounter. During this session, we will explore nonfiction stances and signposts that help students build the skills needed to read, question, and comprehend nonfiction with purpose.
Speakers
avatar for Jordan Day

Jordan Day

Teacher 5th grade, Berry Shoals Elementary
Day
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3320

11:00am EDT

Write On! Growing Young Authors
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking for practical ways to strengthen writing instruction in your K–2 classroom? This engaging PD session will show you how to bring the writing process to life through simple, effective strategies that support all learners—from emerging writers to more advanced students. You’ll walk away with ready-to-use tools for each stage of writing, ideas to boost student confidence and independence, and techniques that make writing more manageable and meaningful in your classroom.
Speakers
HA

Heather Atwood

1st Grade Teachers, Berry Shoals Elementary

avatar for Ashley Stanton

Ashley Stanton

Reading Interventionist, Berry Shoals Elementary

KW

Kayla Weber

1st Grade Teachers, Berry Shoals Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3232

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

i-Ready - Starting the Year Strong with Historical Data Chats (Lunch & Learn)
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will explore how to leverage historical data reports to build action plans and set meaningful goals with students. Participants will gain strategies for facilitating effective data chats and using goal setting to drive student ownership and growth ahead of the first i-Ready Inform assessment. The session will also include a preview of what’s new in i-Ready for the 2026-2027 school year. 
Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2216

11:00am EDT

Imagine Learning
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2389

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

SCLearn & The Instruction HUB
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Paige Mitchell

Paige Mitchell

Office of Instructional Materials, South Carolina Department of Education
Paige Mitchell is the iHub Coordinator for the Office of Instructional Materials at the South Carolina Department of Education. In her role, Paige supports districts and schools in integrating technology into their classrooms through the SC Instruction Hub.
Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
2218

12:00pm EDT

Brainstorming Behaviors: Creative Ways to Find Function and Develop Strategies in the Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discuss and brainstorm strategies and behavior plans that address behaviors seen in the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Bowman

Amy Bowman

Behavior Interventionist, Duncan Elementary
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3322

12:00pm EDT

Responsibility Centered Discipline
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Based on the work of Larry Thompson, Responsibility-Centered Discipline (RCD) is a proactive approach to behavior that shifts the focus from external control to developing student ownership.
Speakers
avatar for Carly Phillips

Carly Phillips

Special Educaiton Teacher, Wellford Academy
avatar for Jo Kitchens

Jo Kitchens

Student Support Specialist, Wellford Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3218

12:00pm EDT

Cue the Spotlight: D5 Theatre Teachers United for a Stellar Year!
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Theatre teachers will gain awareness of district-wide theatre offerings, community enrichment opportunities, and resources that support student engagement, creativity, and growth. Teachers will also focus on ways to strengthen their production planning and implementation.
Speakers
avatar for Taylor Smith

Taylor Smith

Theatre Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Blackbox Theater (2408)

12:00pm EDT

Engaging Students in Science with Vernier Graphical Analysis
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this interactive session, teachers will gain firsthand experience using Vernier’s Graphical Analysis software alongside a variety of probes. Participants will explore how real-time data collection and visualization can support inquiry-based learning, strengthen conceptual understanding, and make abstract scientific concepts more tangible for students. This session will include:
  • Guided exploration of Graphical Analysis software
  • Hands-on data collection using various Vernier probes
  • Sample investigation ideas tailored to different science subjects
  • Brief exploration of other free online graphing programs for teachers and students, including CODAP-Common Online Data Analysis Program
  • Discussion of classroom implementation strategies and differentiation
Speakers
avatar for Jeffrey Lamb

Jeffrey Lamb

Science Teacher, James F. Byrnes High
avatar for Jena Kuronya

Jena Kuronya

Science teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2238

12:00pm EDT

Getting Started: Navigating the New D5 Elementary Science Curriculum
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will provide a brief introduction to the new science curriculum developed this summer, focusing on helping teachers understand the overall structure for the year.

Teachers will:
  • Review the year-at-a-glance to see how content is organized across the school year
  • Explore the pacing guides to understand instructional timelines and expectations
  • Identify key units and when they will be taught

By the end of the session, teachers will have a clear understanding of the curriculum's layout and feel prepared to begin planning instruction.



Speakers
avatar for Cathy Rickman

Cathy Rickman

K-5 STEM Coach, Wellford Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3216

12:00pm EDT

Orchestra Rockstars!
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
D5 Orchestra teachers will discuss strategies for planning recruiting events for beginners and how to use peer ambassadors to "hook" new orchestra members. Teachers will also strategize ways to strengthen curriculum alignment across all grade levels to support consistent student achievement and musical development in our District 5 orchestras.
Speakers
avatar for Kelsey Grant

Kelsey Grant

Orchestra Director, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Orchestra Room (2424)

12:00pm EDT

The Library as a Classroom Extension: Tools, Resources, and Support for Teachers at Byrnes High School
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this professional development session, the Byrnes High School librarians will show how the library can support teaching and learning across (almost) all content areas through resources and partnerships, including:
  • Research lessons
  • Curated resources for classroom units
  • Literature circles & book clubs
  • Stations & escape rooms
  • Tech-based projects
We’ll also do a quick Beanstack 101 workshop, plus give you time to chat with the librarians & your PLC's about upcoming units and collaborative planning. Come see how working with the librarians makes teaching easier for YOU.

This is ONLY for teachers and staff at James F. Byrnes High School.

Speakers
avatar for Victoria Dickerson

Victoria Dickerson

Librarian, James F. Byrnes High
Dickreson
avatar for Sheila Roberts

Sheila Roberts

Librarian, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Media Center (3343)

12:00pm EDT

Awareness: Sex Trafficking 101
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Established in 2012 in Greenville County, Switch is a grassroots, non-profit organization fighting sex trafficking in Upstate communities by shining a light on exploitation and offering restoration to survivors. Switch provides five areas of outreach: Awareness, Prevention, Demand, Intervention, and Restoration. Since Switch's inception, 400 individuals have received assistance through intervention and restoration services. Greenville and Spartanburg counties rank in the top 5 counties in South Carolina for sex trafficking and exploitation. This issue cannot be ignored.
Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3317

12:00pm EDT

From Rubric to Revision: Using MagicSchool AI to Improve Student Writing
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Participants will learn how to input the South Carolina Writing Rubric into MagicSchool AI so students can receive standards-aligned feedback, targeted revision suggestions, and an estimated writing score—all in real time.

Rather than replacing teacher feedback, this course focuses on using AI to enhance the writing process, allowing students to independently reflect on their work, revise with purpose, and better understand rubric expectations. Teachers will explore how AI-generated feedback can promote student ownership, increase revision quality, and save instructional time.
Speakers
avatar for Lyndsey Elliott

Lyndsey Elliott

Literacy Coach, Lyman Elementary

avatar for Katie Hedden

Katie Hedden

Literacy Coach, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3232

12:00pm EDT

Instructional Tech Mixtape: Press Play on Purpose
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Instructional tech tools feeling like a tangled cassette tape? Like waiting to hit record when that perfect song came on the radio, this session is about being intentional in crafting lessons with a blend of analog lessons and digital tools.
Speakers
SH

Stefanie Harrison

District Instructional Technology Coach, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2212

12:00pm EDT

Level Up Learning with Kami and Focused Notes
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will equip teachers with practical strategies to enhance student engagement through digital annotation and focused note-taking. During the session, educators will learn how to upload and assign documents, model annotation techniques, and guide students in using tools like highlighting, commenting, and drawing to interact with content. Emphasis will be placed on implementing focused notes to help students actively process information by organizing key ideas, asking questions, and making connections directly on digital texts. By the end of the training, teachers will be able to integrate Kami seamlessly into their instruction, promoting deeper understanding, accountability, and active learning.
Speakers
avatar for Amber Watts

Amber Watts

AVID Elective Teacher and Math Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy
Hello! My name is Amber Watts, and I am a math teacher as well as an AVID elective teacher with 22 years in education. Outside of the classroom, I’m a mom to two amazing kids, a proud mother-in-law to a wonderful daughter-in-law, and “Honey” to one very special grandbaby—roles... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
1321

12:00pm EDT

Make It Cute with Canva 💕✨: The Basics
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking for an easy way to create classroom materials that feel both professional and cute without spending hours designing? Join this hands-on session to learn how to use Canva to create engaging, classroom-ready resources that look polished yet retain personality. We’ll show you how to access the app, choose templates that match your needs, and use simple editing tools to customize your designs with confidence. With guided practice time built in, you’ll leave with presentation slides and handouts that are not only clear and professional but also attractive, creative, and ready to impress at our upcoming meet-the-teacher night. Whether you’re brand new or just want fresh ideas, this session will give you practical tools to make your materials stand out right away.
Speakers
avatar for Sydney Mims

Sydney Mims

Teacher, Berry Shoals Elementary

avatar for Chelsea Thompson

Chelsea Thompson

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2214

12:00pm EDT

Using AI in the Math Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Students trying to use AI to solve math problems is not new. But what if we could teach students to use AI responsibly by showing them the strengths and weaknesses? AI doesn't always do math correctly, so how can we use it to our benefit without just accepting its answers as truth every single time? 
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Mathews

Michelle Mathews

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
1303

12:00pm EDT

Using Pear Deck to Increase Engagement in the Classroom: Interactive Learning Strategies for Every Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Before attending this session, please attend the Pear Deck Vendor session!

Join us for an interactive session exploring how Pear Deck can transform classroom instruction through engagement, collaboration, and real-time feedback. This presentation will introduce teachers to the many ways Pear Deck can be used across grade levels and content areas to create student-centered learning experiences. Participants will discover practical strategies for increasing participation, checking for understanding, supporting diverse learners, and making lessons more interactive without completely redesigning existing materials.

Aligned with the theme D5Together, this session highlights how technology can strengthen classroom connections, amplify student voice, and foster collaborative learning environments where every student is actively involved. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use ideas, engagement strategies, and the confidence to begin implementing Pear Deck in their own classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Krysti Ward

Krysti Ward

6th Grade Math Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

CF

Christina Ferrell

6th Grade ELA Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2236

12:00pm EDT

Using Zearn to Learn
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Zearn can help your students learn in math! Come find out how! We will tell you more about the online platform, how to access it, and how to use it to best grow your students' academic achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Stacy Green

Stacy Green

Math Interventionist, Lyman Elementary

avatar for Amanda Selman

Amanda Selman

3rd grade teacher, Lyman Elementary

avatar for Heather Ross

Heather Ross

2nd grade teacher, Lyman Elementary

avatar for Ginny Counterman

Ginny Counterman

Math Coach, Lyman Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3318

12:00pm EDT

Intentional Beginnings: Rethinking the First Week of School
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Building a positive classroom community is essential for student success. This session will provide practical strategies for creating a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where students feel valued and empowered. Whether you are a new teacher building your classroom foundation or a veteran teacher looking for a fresh restart, participants will leave with realistic, easy-to-implement ideas for routines, relationship-building, student independence, and strengthening communication with families.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley McClary

Ashley McClary

4th grade teacher, Berry Shoals Elementary

avatar for Caroline Ostheim

Caroline Ostheim

4th Grade ELA Teacher, Berry Shoals Elementary
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3234

12:00pm EDT

From Overwhelm to Ownership: ADHD, Executive Function, & AVID in Action
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session equips teachers with a deeper understanding of ADHD and executive dysfunction, and how these impact student performance, behavior, and engagement. We will explore tried-and-true AVID strategies that increase student motivation, develop ownership of learning, and maximize their learning potential.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Amberley Raushenberger

Dr. Amberley Raushenberger

PLTW/AVID Site Coordinator, Lyman Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2247

12:00pm EDT

What is Modified Instruction?
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
What is modified instruction is for special education teachers that will be providing this service in the upcoming school year.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Brannon

Melissa Brannon

Behavior Specialist, Middle Tyger Community Center

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3316

12:00pm EDT

Creating Classroom Magic Without the Cringe
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers don’t remember every worksheet they completed as kids, but they DO remember how classrooms made them feel.

This session explores practical ways to create engaging classroom experiences that build student buy-in, strengthen classroom culture, and make learning memorable without adding unrealistic prep demands. We’ll look at small shifts in presentation, routines, storytelling, gamification, and classroom identity that help turn everyday lessons into experiences students actually care about.

Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas to increase engagement while maintaining rigor and structure.
Speakers
avatar for Elise Acosta

Elise Acosta

4th Grade Teacher, Reidville Elementary
Hi! I’m Elise Eakins, and I’m heading into my 8th year of teaching at Reidville Elementary. I have a Master’s in Education with a focus in Research in Practice and a specialization in Project Based Learning. I love finding ways to make learning feel exciting, memorable, and... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2245

12:00pm EDT

From Markup to Deeper Meaning: Mastering the AVID Critical Reading Process
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In an increasingly distracted world, the physical act of marking a page remains one of the most powerful ways to anchor student attention. This interactive workshop focuses on the AVID Critical Reading Process using analog texts to build deep comprehension and rigorous thinking.
Speakers
avatar for Geoff Turner

Geoff Turner

AVID Elective Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2232

12:00pm EDT

Move to Learn: Bringing the Classroom to Life
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation explores practical and purposeful ways to incorporate movement into the general education classroom to support student engagement, focus, and academic success. Participants will examine the benefits of movement as an instructional strategy and how it can improve attention, increase participation, and enhance learning retention across content areas. The session will highlight how movement supports a variety of learners while also addressing students’ physical and social-emotional needs.

Educators will learn simple, realistic strategies that can be embedded into daily instruction without sacrificing valuable teaching time. The presentation will also demonstrate how movement can be integrated into core subjects such as math, reading, science, and social studies.

Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas, adaptable strategies for different grade levels, and tools to create a more active, engaging learning environment. This session is designed to help teachers feel confident using movement intentionally to enhance instruction and support all learners.
Speakers
avatar for Elise Archie

Elise Archie

Dance Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Dance Room (3404)

12:00pm EDT

Think Like a Computer Scientist, No Screens Required!
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Ready to bring computer science to life without a single screen? Join me for an interactive, hands-on session designed specifically for K4 through 2nd grade educators! Discover how to transform computational thinking concepts like algorithms and pattern recognition into fun unplugged classroom activities. You will walk away with example lessons of practical, budget friendly activities and strategies that get your youngest learners moving, collaborating, and thinking like computer scientists. Come ready to play!
Speakers
avatar for Clary Stapleton

Clary Stapleton

Instructional Technology Coach, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2220

12:00pm EDT

IEP Meetings: Prepared, Professional, Productive
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this session, we will outline a basic planning process for IEP meetings, review IEP meeting etiquette, and discuss how to effectively communicate information during IEP meetings.
Speakers
avatar for Sina Guffey

Sina Guffey

Special Education Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

avatar for Jessica Wiley

Jessica Wiley

Special Education Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3305

12:00pm EDT

AVID Tutorials in the General Education Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Attendees will learn about tutorials, request forms, and implementing tutorials in the general education classroom. AVID tutorials are a collaborative inquiry process where students work in small groups to deepen their understanding of rigorous academic content. Instead of giving answers, the focus is on asking questions, explaining thinking, and learning from peers.
Speakers
avatar for Christy Hewitt

Christy Hewitt

Instructional Coach/AVID Site Coordinator, Florence Chapel Middle

MS

Michael Sandlin

AVID Elective Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
1319

12:00pm EDT

Beyond Worksheets: Engaging, Active Math Practice Students (and Teachers) Actually Enjoy
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores strategies for transforming traditional math practice into engaging, interactive experiences in middle and secondary classrooms. Participants will learn how to move beyond worksheets by incorporating movement, collaboration, teacher check-ins, and self-monitoring activities that promote student independence and reflection. The focus is on creating purposeful practice that increases engagement, deepens understanding, and makes math class meaningful and more enjoyable for students.
Speakers
avatar for Brittni Yount

Brittni Yount

Math Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
1307

12:00pm EDT

Building a Powerful Math Community
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will focus on creating strong math routines, structures, and classroom expectations that support student thinking, independence, and engagement. Teachers will explore ways to begin teaching meaningful math content immediately while also intentionally building a classroom community where all students see themselves as capable mathematicians. Participants will have time to reflect, plan, and visualize what they want math to look and feel like in their classrooms this year.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Farr

Katie Farr

Math Instructional Coach, Reidville Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3346

12:00pm EDT

Move, Think, Collaborate: A Carousel Learning Approach
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Carousel Learning is an interactive instructional strategy that promotes student engagement, collaboration, and critical thinking through structured movement and purposeful discussion.

In this session, participants will explore how to effectively implement carousel learning to increase student participation and deepen understanding across content areas. This strategy is aligned with AVID’s College and Career Readiness Framework and the Foundations of Instruction, supporting clear learning objectives, strategic lesson design, and student-centered practices. Attendees will learn how to design intentional stations, develop rigorous prompts, and incorporate strategies that support diverse learners.

Through modeling and guided practice, participants will experience carousel learning from a student perspective and reflect on its impact. Participants will leave equipped with practical tools to foster engagement, accountability, and deeper learning in their classrooms daily.
Speakers
avatar for Josie Brown

Josie Brown

English Teacher, AVID Elective Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy
avatar for Christy Hewitt

Christy Hewitt

Instructional Coach/AVID Site Coordinator, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
1309

12:00pm EDT

Rethinking Grammar Instruction
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Research shows that grammar instruction in isolation doesn't stick with students.  Come and explore how to embed grammar across the ELA block.  Learn new instructional ideas that help students transfer grammar skills into meaningful reading and writing experiences.
Speakers
avatar for Shauna Bartel

Shauna Bartel

Literacy Coach, Reidville Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3348

12:00pm EDT

Shaping Young Minds: Making Geometry Come Alive
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation highlights engaging strategies for teaching geometry, including using manipulatives, modeling shapes through movement, creating songs to explore shape attributes, and applying geometric properties in creative art projects.
Speakers
avatar for Tracy West

Tracy West

Math Interventionist, Abner Creek Academy

avatar for Amanda Redfern

Amanda Redfern

Math Instructional Coach, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3220

12:00pm EDT

The Art of Productive Struggle: Small Shifts, Big Impact
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
What if the goal wasn’t just getting the right answer—but building thinkers?

This professional development session is designed for teachers, instructional coaches, interventionists, and administrators who want to move beyond passive learning and toward classrooms where students actively engage, persist, and make sense of mathematics.

Grounded in insights from the Building Thinking Classrooms conference in Connecticut, this session focuses on realistic, classroom-ready strategies that can be implemented immediately—without overwhelming teachers or disrupting existing structures.

Participants will explore how to:
  • Use small, intentional moves (e.g., random groupings, vertical workspaces, and teacher facilitation techniques) to increase engagement and accountability
  • Support all learners, including those in intervention settings, through productive challenge rather than rescue
This is not about overhauling your entire classroom overnight. Instead, it’s about identifying high-impact, low-barrier strategies that help students build confidence, perseverance, and deeper understanding—one small shift at a time.

Whether you are in the classroom, supporting teachers, or leading a school, this session will provide practical tools and a clear starting point for cultivating meaningful, l



Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melissa Gray

Dr. Melissa Gray

Math Interventionist, Abner Creek Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
1301

12:00pm EDT

The Instructional Cha-Chas: Chew
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Are you tired of using the same old instructional strategies in your classes? Are you looking for new, highly engaging, brain-based strategies to help your students achieve? Sign up for The Instructional Cha-Chas: Chew session and leave with at least 4 fun, engaging, research-based instructional strategies to take back to your students. You may also want to sign up for The Instructional Cha-Chas: Chunk session and learn how and why you should be chunking your lessons. Both sessions are based on LeeAnn Nickelson's book Teaching with the Instructional Cha-Chas.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Jewett

Kelly Jewett

Continuous Improvement Facilitator, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2234

12:00pm EDT

i-Ready - Starting the Year Strong with Historical Data Chats (Lunch & Learn)
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will explore how to leverage historical data reports to build action plans and set meaningful goals with students. Participants will gain strategies for facilitating effective data chats and using goal setting to drive student ownership and growth ahead of the first i-Ready Inform assessment. The session will also include a preview of what’s new in i-Ready for the 2026-2027 school year. 
Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2216

12:00pm EDT

Learning.com
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Kevin Combs

Kevin Combs

SC Program Manager, Learning.com
Kevin Combs is a visionary leader at the intersection of education and technology and serves as Key Accounts Manager for South Carolina at Learning.com. With 30+ years across industry and public education, he blends technical acumen, instructional innovation, and strategic leadership... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2387

12:00pm EDT

MagicSchool
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Richard Atkins

Richard Atkins

Customer Success Manager, MagicSchool
Richard Atkins is a seasoned educator and former middle school principal with over 10 years of experience in K–12 education. He is passionate about educational equity, innovation, and lifelong learning.
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2385

12:00pm EDT

Panorama
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
TS

Traci Shigley

Panorama Education
Traci is a results‑driven Professional Learning Director who empowers educators to elevate student achievement and well‑being through strategic coaching and high‑quality professional development. She brings proven expertise in program management, professional learning systems... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2390

12:00pm EDT

12:00pm EDT

Promethean
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Ernie Faulkenberry

Ernie Faulkenberry

Vendor, Promethean
Changing the way we teach and collaborate
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2392

12:00pm EDT

TeachTown Toolbox: Prep Smart, Teach Strong
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
A practical and purposeful way to prepare and use TeachTown Encore Curriculum in your classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Anna Taylor

Anna Taylor

Special Education Teacher, River Ridge Elementary

avatar for Megan Cleveland

Megan Cleveland

Special Education Teacher, River Ridge Elementary
My name is Megan Cleveland and I just finished my 5th year in special education. I love my job and I love the kids. They truly teach me so much everyday.
Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3306

1:00pm EDT

A Deeper Dive into Panorama Intervention Plans
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will explore how to create and update intervention plans for interventionists and classroom teachers to support the MTSS process. Participants will practice entering data into the platform and learning how to make decisions based on the data entered into Panorama.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Williams

Katie Williams

Literacy Coach, Duncan Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3218

1:00pm EDT

Making Thinking Visible: The 5 Phases of AVID Notetaking in Math
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Participants will explore best practices for effective math notetaking, including strategies for capturing mathematical thinking, encouraging collaboration and reflection, and helping students move beyond copying procedures to developing conceptual understanding. The session will include hands-on activities, real classroom examples, collaborative discussions, and opportunities for teachers to apply strategies directly to their own instructional practices.
Speakers
avatar for Kamesha Gilmore

Kamesha Gilmore

Math & AVID Elective Teacher, Math Department Chair, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
1307

1:00pm EDT

Navigating Math Curriculum in K-5
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
New math teachers in District 5, this session is for you! This session is designed to help teachers feel confident and prepared for the start of the school year. Participants will explore district math resources, pacing guides, and the Reveal platform while learning practical ways to plan and navigate math instruction in K-5 classrooms. 
Speakers
avatar for Katie Farr

Katie Farr

Math Instructional Coach, Reidville Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3322

1:00pm EDT

Preparing Young Voices for Audition Success
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers will learn vocal techniques to correctly teach the audition material based on the judging rubric. Teachers will also learn tips for rehearsing, recording, and submitting audition materials, ensuring a successful experience for students involved.
Speakers
avatar for Katelyn Ohler

Katelyn Ohler

Choral Director, Abner Creek Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Chorus Room (2422)

1:00pm EDT

Putting the "Personal" in Personal Finance (Economics)
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Join Mr. Robbins (Economics and Personal Finance teacher at Byrnes High School) for an interactive session as he shares creative lessons, activities, and insights from the pilot year of the new, state-required Personal Finance course. All are welcome to attend! This session brings together all educator disciplines to discuss ways to increase our students' knowledge and interest in financial literacy, money math, and more!
Speakers
avatar for Nathan Robbins

Nathan Robbins

Social Studies Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2245

1:00pm EDT

Seals of Biliteracy
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Do you know a student who is fluent in a language other than English? Let's work together to help our ML students be recognized and celebrated for their language abilities! We can do this by encouraging our ML students to earn a Seal of Biliteracy through the state of SC! In this presentation, you will learn what a Seal of Biliteracy is, who can earn a Seal of Biliteracy, the benefits that come with it, and how you can contribute to helping students earn their Seal of Biliteracy! 
Speakers
avatar for Amber Hartfield

Amber Hartfield

School Counselor, James F. Byrnes High
Hello!!!

My name is Amber Hartfield! This is my 5th year as a school counselor, but my 3rd year as a school counselor at BHS! Prior to BHS, I was at an alternative school in NC. I am excited to share with you all such amazing information on Seals of Biliteracy!

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
1303

1:00pm EDT

Stronger Together: Building a Collaborative Dance Community for the School Year
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This collaborative session invites dance educators to come together to connect, share, and plan for a successful upcoming school year. Participants will engage in guided discussions and interactive activities designed to foster meaningful collaboration across programs and grade levels. Together, we will exchange teaching strategies, explore creative approaches to choreography and classroom management, and discuss ways to support student growth both artistically and academically.

This session will also provide space to align goals, share resources, and build a supportive network of dance educators committed to elevating dance education in our schools. Whether you are a new teacher or a seasoned educator, you will leave with fresh ideas, practical tools, and meaningful connections to carry into the year ahead.
Speakers
avatar for Elise Archie

Elise Archie

Dance Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Dance Room (3404)

1:00pm EDT

The Library as a Classroom Extension: Tools, Resources, and Support for Teachers at Byrnes High School
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this professional development session, the Byrnes High School librarians will show how the library can support teaching and learning across (almost) all content areas through resources and partnerships, including:
  • Research lessons
  • Curated resources for classroom units
  • Literature circles & book clubs
  • Stations & escape rooms
  • Tech-based projects
We’ll also do a quick Beanstack 101 workshop, plus give you time to chat with the librarians & your PLC's about upcoming units and collaborative planning. Come see how working with the librarians makes teaching easier for YOU.

This is ONLY for teachers and staff at James F. Byrnes High School.

Speakers
avatar for Victoria Dickerson

Victoria Dickerson

Librarian, James F. Byrnes High
Dickreson
avatar for Sheila Roberts

Sheila Roberts

Librarian, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Media Center (3343)

1:00pm EDT

Voice and Choice: Creative Challenges for the Art Room
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers become student-artists! In this session, we will explore opportunities to encourage creative voice and choice in art-making at any level. Art-making challenges, lesson warm-ups, and reflection will be incorporated to support classroom-ready application. Come ready to make and take!
Speakers
avatar for Megan Parlow

Megan Parlow

Art Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Art Room (2409)

1:00pm EDT

Awareness: Sex Trafficking 101
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Established in 2012 in Greenville County, Switch is a grassroots, non-profit organization fighting sex trafficking in Upstate communities by shining a light on exploitation and offering restoration to survivors. Switch provides five areas of outreach: Awareness, Prevention, Demand, Intervention, and Restoration. Since Switch's inception, 400 individuals have received assistance through intervention and restoration services. Greenville and Spartanburg counties rank in the top 5 counties in South Carolina for sex trafficking and exploitation. This issue cannot be ignored.
Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3317

1:00pm EDT

Competition Robotics Workshop
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
How to align the elementary, middle school, and high school robotic competition teams, so students continue to progress in their robotics knowledge and abilities.
Speakers
TP

Tommy Peake

Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy

PP

Peyton Proffit

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
1313

1:00pm EDT

"No More Guesswork": Schoology and PowerSchool Made Easy
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will help teachers to set up their Schoology folders for students to match PowerSchool. This simple task will eliminate all of the confusion when parents are at home trying to help their students find missing work. It will also help teachers to create a common language with their students when looking for makeup assignments.
Speakers
avatar for Brandie Pearson

Brandie Pearson

6th grade teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

avatar for Beverly Foster

Beverly Foster

6th grade teacher, Abner Creek Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3236

1:00pm EDT

Level Up Learning with Kami and Focused Notes
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will equip teachers with practical strategies to enhance student engagement through digital annotation and focused note-taking. During the session, educators will learn how to upload and assign documents, model annotation techniques, and guide students in using tools like highlighting, commenting, and drawing to interact with content. Emphasis will be placed on implementing focused notes to help students actively process information by organizing key ideas, asking questions, and making connections directly on digital texts. By the end of the training, teachers will be able to integrate Kami seamlessly into their instruction, promoting deeper understanding, accountability, and active learning.
Speakers
avatar for Amber Watts

Amber Watts

AVID Elective Teacher and Math Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy
Hello! My name is Amber Watts, and I am a math teacher as well as an AVID elective teacher with 22 years in education. Outside of the classroom, I’m a mom to two amazing kids, a proud mother-in-law to a wonderful daughter-in-law, and “Honey” to one very special grandbaby—roles... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
1321

1:00pm EDT

The Perfect Pear: Transforming History Lectures into Interactive Pear Deck Lessons
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Design and develop interactive Pear Deck lessons by transforming existing Lecture presentations into engaging, student-centered learning experiences. Enhance traditional lecture materials with formative assessment questions, collaborative activities, and interactive writing prompts to increase student participation, comprehension, and critical thinking. Integrated multimedia elements and standards-aligned content to support diverse learning styles and improve classroom engagement in history instruction.











Speakers
avatar for Andrew Adams

Andrew Adams

Tech Coach

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2220

1:00pm EDT

Zearn - Tailored Support for Students with Disabilities
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Tailored Support for Students with Disabilities is designed for educators already familiar with Zearn. Participants will explore how Zearn’s Digital Lessons support students with a variety of learning needs and will learn practical strategies for implementing accommodations, identifying barriers to understanding, and supporting students through targeted conferences and intervention planning.

Prerequisite: Participants must have completed Launch Zearn Math training, either during the June 10 session or the morning session on July 31, before attending this training.
Speakers
JM

Jennifer Madden

Partner Success, Zearn
Jennifer Madden, a partner success manager at Zearn, brings more than 20 years of experience in education as a teacher and school administrator in South Carolina. Most recently, she served as principal of Woodmont Middle School, where she led schoolwide academic initiatives and supported... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2355

1:00pm EDT

Behavior and Disabilities
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Oftentimes, we wonder, is this just a behavior, or is it a student's disability? Join in for a discussion where we draw the line.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Brannon

Melissa Brannon

Behavior Specialist, Middle Tyger Community Center

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3316

1:00pm EDT

From Overwhelm to Ownership: ADHD, Executive Function, & AVID in Action
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session equips teachers with a deeper understanding of ADHD and executive dysfunction, and how these impact student performance, behavior, and engagement. We will explore tried-and-true AVID strategies that increase student motivation, develop ownership of learning, and maximize their learning potential.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Amberley Raushenberger

Dr. Amberley Raushenberger

PLTW/AVID Site Coordinator, Lyman Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2247

1:00pm EDT

ML Support: Individualized Language Acquisition Plan (ILAP) Overview
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
The Individualized Language Acquisition Plan (ILAP) is a tool used to support multilingual learners by outlining their specific language needs and progress. Within the ILAP, educators can find important information such as instructional accommodations, assessment accommodations, test results, and “Can-Do” descriptors that highlight what students are able to achieve in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
During this presentation, we will explore where to locate each of these components and how they are used to guide instruction. We will also review how to make updates to the plan as students grow, and clarify what each accommodation means so teachers can apply them effectively in the classroom. The goal is to ensure all students receive appropriate support to succeed academically while developing their language skills.
Speakers
avatar for Barbara Lee

Barbara Lee

MLP Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

avatar for Destiny Shannon

Destiny Shannon

MLP Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3303

1:00pm EDT

PCD (Teachers & TAs)
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Wendy Hite

Wendy Hite

Director of Special Services, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3302

1:00pm EDT

Collaborate, Create, Connect: Theatre Games for Every Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Simple Theatre Games to Increase Engagement, Collaboration, and Confidence in Any Classroom
Speakers
avatar for Taylor Smith

Taylor Smith

Theatre Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

avatar for DeAndra Sosa

DeAndra Sosa

Theatre Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Blackbox Theater (2408)

1:00pm EDT

From Markup to Deeper Meaning: Mastering the AVID Critical Reading Process
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In an increasingly distracted world, the physical act of marking a page remains one of the most powerful ways to anchor student attention. This interactive workshop focuses on the AVID Critical Reading Process using analog texts to build deep comprehension and rigorous thinking.
Speakers
avatar for Geoff Turner

Geoff Turner

AVID Elective Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2232

1:00pm EDT

Learning Math Through Music & Movement
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
(Best for grades K-2)
Come move with us! Teachers will learn about and receive music and movement resources to help their students make more meaningful math connections.
Speakers
avatar for Leah Bomar

Leah Bomar

Kindergarten Teacher, Lyman Elementary
Bomar
avatar for Ginny Counterman

Ginny Counterman

Math Coach, Lyman Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3212

1:00pm EDT

Trust--It Starts With the Small Things
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation will cover group dynamics and the relationship between leadership and teaching, with a focus on building Trust. The session will conclude with an experiential demonstration using Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
Speakers
avatar for Rhea Dobson

Rhea Dobson

Senior Aerospace Science Instructor, James F. Byrnes High

avatar for Patricia White

Patricia White

Science Department Chair, James F. Byrnes High

avatar for Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke

Aerospace Science Instructor, James F. Byrnes High

avatar for Wesley Helseth

Wesley Helseth

Aerospace Science Instructor, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
1319

1:00pm EDT

Using Engaging Nonfiction Text Types to Inspire Reading, Writing, and Creativity Matter
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores engaging ways to teach nonfiction by using mentor texts and creative nonfiction formats that move beyond traditional research reports. Participants will discover how different types of nonfiction—such as narrative nonfiction, graphic nonfiction, “Who Would Win?” style texts, and question-based informational writing—can inspire student reading, writing, and inquiry. The session will highlight practical classroom projects where students create their own nonfiction books, comics, podcasts, and research-based writing using accessible, low-prep strategies. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use ideas and mentor text pairings that make nonfiction more engaging, authentic, and student-driven across all grade levels.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Koon

Elizabeth Koon

Media Specialist, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3344

1:00pm EDT

Create, Snap, Grade: High-Creativity, Low-Stress Tech Assessments
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
We want our students to be creators, not just consumers. Tools like Canva, Book Creator, and Kami give them amazing canvases to show what they know. But as teachers, we need a workflow that doesn't require juggling 50 different dashboards just to put a grade in the gradebook.

In this session, we will connect the dots. Discover a foolproof cycle to create high-creativity tasks, push them out, and grade them entirely inside Schoology using a simple student screenshot method. Learn how to keep student creativity high and teacher stress low.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Paddock

Ashley Paddock

Instructional Technology Coach, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2214

1:00pm EDT

Accountable Talk Across Content Areas
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Building classroom discussion skills in all subjects with turn-and-talk structures, math and ELA discourse routines, and anchor charts for discussion norms.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Kinard

Katie Kinard

Literacy Coach, Wellford Academy

avatar for Emily Marshall

Emily Marshall

4th Grade Math Teacher, Wellford Academy

avatar for Bill Neyman

Bill Neyman

Math Coach, Wellford Academy

MW

Mollie Warren

4th Grade ELA Teacher, Wellford Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3342

1:00pm EDT

Building Vocabulary, One Word at a Time!
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This program introduces students in grades K-5 to a new vocabulary word each day, organized around a weekly theme to deepen understanding and connection. Through engaging activities such as context clue questions and micro writing extensions, students actively practice using each word in meaningful ways. The goal is to strengthen vocabulary, improve comprehension, and encourage confident communication in both speaking and writing.
Speakers
avatar for Amber Neyman

Amber Neyman

3rd Grade Teacher, Tyger River Elementary
avatar for Caroline Davis

Caroline Davis

Literacy Coach, Tyger River Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3214

1:00pm EDT

Collab Lab: Building Better Science Classroom Together
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Step into the Collab Lab—where science teachers team up to share what really works! This interactive session is all about swapping ideas, sparking inspiration, and building a collection of go-to strategies you can use right away. From can’t-miss labs and engaging process skills activities to vocabulary techniques that actually stick, you’ll leave with practical tools tested by real classrooms.

Expect a fast-paced, collaborative atmosphere filled with idea-sharing, discussion, and “why didn’t I think of that?” moments. Bring your favorite strategies, discover new ones, and connect with fellow educators who are just as passionate about great science teaching as you are.
Speakers
HB

Heather Bowles

7th Grade Science Teacher, D.R. Hill Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2234

1:00pm EDT

Daily Practices to Build Strong Mathematicians
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session focuses on building engaging daily math block routines that develop strong mathematical thinkers. Participants will explore six effective instructional practices that include number sense routines, number talks, spiral review, fluency practice, small group instruction, and guided practice, and learn how each supports student reasoning, engagement, and meaningful math discussions. Teachers will also plan purposeful math block structures that incorporate interactive practices to strengthen student learning and participation.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Redfern

Amanda Redfern

Math Instructional Coach, Abner Creek Academy

DH

Dana Hodge

Math Instructional Coach, Tyger River Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3220

1:00pm EDT

Diving into Desmos at D5
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover how the Desmos Graphing Calculator can enhance mathematics instruction through dynamic visualizations and interactive exploration. This session will introduce key features of Desmos and demonstrate practical ways to use the tool to deepen student understanding, increase engagement, and connect multiple representations of mathematical concepts. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas for incorporating Desmos into their classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Grimes

Amy Grimes

Math Teacher, James F. Byrnes High
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2238

1:00pm EDT

From Memorizing to Mapping: Rethinking How We Teach Heart Words
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
The science of reading has challenged how we teach students to learn high-frequency words.  This means we must shift from teaching students to memorize words to using orthographic mapping to help them connect sounds, spelling patterns, and meaning.  Participants should leave this session with an understanding of what brain research says about effective high-frequency word instruction, clear definitions of heart words, sight words, and high-frequency words, and practical teaching strategies to make word learning stick.
Speakers
avatar for Shauna Bartel

Shauna Bartel

Literacy Coach, Reidville Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3348

1:00pm EDT

Hands-Off / Hands-On Learning: 7th Grade Chemistry
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
The presentation will include a variety of labs and demonstrations designed to keep teachers "hands-off" and students "hands-on" in the learning process. Demonstrations will provide opportunities for student observation, leading to questioning and exploration of chemical phenomena.  Lab project ideas will be provided that allow students to investigate chemical reactions, guided by their questioning and problem-solving skills. 
Speakers
avatar for Shawn Uppole

Shawn Uppole

Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

avatar for Chandler Lehman

Chandler Lehman

Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2351

1:00pm EDT

How To: Teacher-Directed Intervention Plans
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This course will help teachers walk away with an understanding of how to set goals, create long-range plans, and carry out those plans for students who qualify for "Teacher Directed" Interventions, or even for a targeted small group for a specific skill.
Speakers
avatar for Stacy Green

Stacy Green

Math Interventionist, Lyman Elementary

SW

Samantha Westbrook

Math Interventionist, Lyman Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3318

1:00pm EDT

Move, Think, Collaborate: A Carousel Learning Approach
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Carousel Learning is an interactive instructional strategy that promotes student engagement, collaboration, and critical thinking through structured movement and purposeful discussion.

In this session, participants will explore how to effectively implement carousel learning to increase student participation and deepen understanding across content areas. This strategy is aligned with AVID’s College and Career Readiness Framework and the Foundations of Instruction, supporting clear learning objectives, strategic lesson design, and student-centered practices. Attendees will learn how to design intentional stations, develop rigorous prompts, and incorporate strategies that support diverse learners.

Through modeling and guided practice, participants will experience carousel learning from a student perspective and reflect on its impact. Participants will leave equipped with practical tools to foster engagement, accountability, and deeper learning in their classrooms daily.
Speakers
avatar for Josie Brown

Josie Brown

English Teacher, AVID Elective Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy
avatar for Christy Hewitt

Christy Hewitt

Instructional Coach/AVID Site Coordinator, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
1309

1:00pm EDT

Mystery at Morpheme Manor: Where Prefixes, Suffixes, and Roots Reveal the Clues to Meaning
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this interactive workshop, teachers of grades 3–5 will explore the importance of morphology in developing strong readers and writers. Participants will learn practical strategies for teaching prefixes, suffixes, and Greek and Latin roots through engaging, hands-on activities they can immediately implement in their classrooms. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use ideas and resources to strengthen vocabulary, word analysis, spelling, and reading comprehension.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Cassidy

Heather Cassidy

4th Grade Teacher, Tyger River Elementary
avatar for Emily Cox

Emily Cox

4th Grade Teacher, Tyger River Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3346

1:00pm EDT

Small groups, Big Gains: Designing Effective Instructional Groups
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Participants will examine the purpose and impact of small-group instruction in grades 3-5, use student data to form flexible, purposeful groups, and design targeted lessons with a clear skill focus, strategic teacher moves, and engaging student tasks. Teachers will also explore instructional resources that can streamline planning, differentiate instruction, and promote alignment across classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Lyndsey Elliott

Lyndsey Elliott

Literacy Coach, Lyman Elementary

avatar for Katie Hedden

Katie Hedden

Literacy Coach, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3232

1:00pm EDT

The Art of Productive Struggle: Small Shifts, Big Impact
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
What if the goal wasn’t just getting the right answer—but building thinkers?

This professional development session is designed for teachers, instructional coaches, interventionists, and administrators who want to move beyond passive learning and toward classrooms where students actively engage, persist, and make sense of mathematics.

Grounded in insights from the Building Thinking Classrooms conference in Connecticut, this session focuses on realistic, classroom-ready strategies that can be implemented immediately—without overwhelming teachers or disrupting existing structures.

Participants will explore how to:
  • Use small, intentional moves (e.g., random groupings, vertical workspaces, and teacher facilitation techniques) to increase engagement and accountability
  • Support all learners, including those in intervention settings, through productive challenge rather than rescue
This is not about overhauling your entire classroom overnight. Instead, it’s about identifying high-impact, low-barrier strategies that help students build confidence, perseverance, and deeper understanding—one small shift at a time.

Whether you are in the classroom, supporting teachers, or leading a school, this session will provide practical tools and a clear starting point for cultivating meaningful, l



Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melissa Gray

Dr. Melissa Gray

Math Interventionist, Abner Creek Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
1301

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

Imagine Learning
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2389

1:00pm EDT

Learning.com
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Kevin Combs

Kevin Combs

SC Program Manager, Learning.com
Kevin Combs is a visionary leader at the intersection of education and technology and serves as Key Accounts Manager for South Carolina at Learning.com. With 30+ years across industry and public education, he blends technical acumen, instructional innovation, and strategic leadership... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2387

1:00pm EDT

MagicSchool
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Richard Atkins

Richard Atkins

Customer Success Manager, MagicSchool
Richard Atkins is a seasoned educator and former middle school principal with over 10 years of experience in K–12 education. He is passionate about educational equity, innovation, and lifelong learning.
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2385

1:00pm EDT

Panorama
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
TS

Traci Shigley

Panorama Education
Traci is a results‑driven Professional Learning Director who empowers educators to elevate student achievement and well‑being through strategic coaching and high‑quality professional development. She brings proven expertise in program management, professional learning systems... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2390

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

Promethean
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Ernie Faulkenberry

Ernie Faulkenberry

Vendor, Promethean
Changing the way we teach and collaborate
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2392

1:00pm EDT

SCLearn & The Instruction HUB
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Paige Mitchell

Paige Mitchell

Office of Instructional Materials, South Carolina Department of Education
Paige Mitchell is the iHub Coordinator for the Office of Instructional Materials at the South Carolina Department of Education. In her role, Paige supports districts and schools in integrating technology into their classrooms through the SC Instruction Hub.
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
2218

1:00pm EDT

MakeMusic 101
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
These trainings are largely driven by the teacher's  Prior Knowledge Survey, which will be sent to staff before the training. Potential topics all circle around expanding MakeMusic use with more effective and efficient teacher rehearsal and practice strategies. It's also a great opportunity to deep-dive into different parts of the program, such as our Assignment tool, Sightreading Studio, and Foundations Series.
Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Band Room (2501)

1:00pm EDT

Scaffolding Preschooler’s Early Writing Skills in all Areas
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Writing is just one part of a busy early childhood classroom, but even in little doses, a nurturing approach can work wonders and help children connect the natural writer inside them to a life of expressing themselves on paper. The Early Learning Specialist will explore a framework teachers can use to provide writing opportunities, easily evaluate children's writing, and help children take the next step in their writing development. This session will address the importance of fostering early writing skills, how writing typically develops in young children, and how teachers can actively support this development.  Examples of writing every day in every centers will be stressed.
Speakers
AW

Anna Williams

Early Learning Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education

JS

Jennifer Stock

Early Learning Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Jennifer Stock is an early childhood educator with two decades of experience supporting young learners through relationship‑based, student‑centered instruction. She has served in both early childhood and elementary settings, designing engaging play‑based learning and partnering... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3319

2:00pm EDT

Brainstorming Behaviors: Creative Ways to Find Function and Develop Strategies in the Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discuss and brainstorm strategies and behavior plans that address behaviors seen in the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Bowman

Amy Bowman

Behavior Interventionist, Duncan Elementary
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3322

2:00pm EDT

Responsibility Centered Discipline
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Based on the work of Larry Thompson, Responsibility-Centered Discipline (RCD) is a proactive approach to behavior that shifts the focus from external control to developing student ownership.
Speakers
avatar for Jo Kitchens

Jo Kitchens

Student Support Specialist, Wellford Academy

avatar for Carly Phillips

Carly Phillips

Special Educaiton Teacher, Wellford Academy
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3218

2:00pm EDT

Engaging Students in Science with Vernier Graphical Analysis
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this interactive session, teachers will gain firsthand experience using Vernier’s Graphical Analysis software alongside a variety of probes. Participants will explore how real-time data collection and visualization can support inquiry-based learning, strengthen conceptual understanding, and make abstract scientific concepts more tangible for students. This session will include:
  • Guided exploration of Graphical Analysis software
  • Hands-on data collection using various Vernier probes
  • Sample investigation ideas tailored to different science subjects
  • Brief exploration of other free online graphing programs for teachers and students, including CODAP-Common Online Data Analysis Program
  • Discussion of classroom implementation strategies and differentiation
Speakers
avatar for Jena Kuronya

Jena Kuronya

Science teacher, James F. Byrnes High

avatar for Jeffrey Lamb

Jeffrey Lamb

Science Teacher, James F. Byrnes High
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2238

2:00pm EDT

Getting Started: Navigating the New D5 Elementary Science Curriculum
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will provide a brief introduction to the new science curriculum developed this summer, focusing on helping teachers understand the overall structure for the year.

Teachers will:
  • Review the year-at-a-glance to see how content is organized across the school year
  • Explore the pacing guides to understand instructional timelines and expectations
  • Identify key units and when they will be taught

By the end of the session, teachers will have a clear understanding of the curriculum's layout and feel prepared to begin planning instruction.



Speakers
avatar for Cathy Rickman

Cathy Rickman

K-5 STEM Coach, Wellford Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3216

2:00pm EDT

Harmony in Action: Building a Successful District Elementary Honors Chorus
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Elementary music teachers will identify effective audition techniques and procedures specific to the D5 Elementary Honor Choir to support successful student participation in District/Honors Chorus events. They will also discuss best practices in aligning rehearsal expectations, event logistics, timelines, and communication across all 8 elementary schools. Teachers will be led in a discussion on selecting appropriate choral repertoire for their school chorus and this honor event, with consideration of music that promotes student growth, musical excellence, and engaging performances.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley Rhoden

Ashley Rhoden

Elementary Music Teacher, River Ridge Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Chorus Room (2422)

2:00pm EDT

Putting the "Personal" in Personal Finance (Economics)
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Join Mr. Robbins (Economics and Personal Finance teacher at Byrnes High School) for an interactive session as he shares creative lessons, activities, and insights from the pilot year of the new, state-required Personal Finance course. All are welcome to attend! This session brings together all educator disciplines to discuss ways to increase our students' knowledge and interest in financial literacy, money math, and more!
Speakers
avatar for Nathan Robbins

Nathan Robbins

Social Studies Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2247

2:00pm EDT

Awareness: Sex Trafficking 101
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Established in 2012 in Greenville County, Switch is a grassroots, non-profit organization fighting sex trafficking in Upstate communities by shining a light on exploitation and offering restoration to survivors. Switch provides five areas of outreach: Awareness, Prevention, Demand, Intervention, and Restoration. Since Switch's inception, 400 individuals have received assistance through intervention and restoration services. Greenville and Spartanburg counties rank in the top 5 counties in South Carolina for sex trafficking and exploitation. This issue cannot be ignored.
Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3317

2:00pm EDT

My Teaching Certificate Expires This Year. What Do I Do?
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this session, we will review the requirements and procedures for renewing a South Carolina Teaching Certificate. Other topics to be addressed are the formative evaluation process and how the EAA affects teacher licensure and renewals.
Speakers
avatar for Matt Wofford

Matt Wofford

Coordinator of Training and Teacher Quality, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
1301

2:00pm EDT

"No More Guesswork": Schoology and PowerSchool Made Easy
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will help teachers to set up their Schoology folders for students to match PowerSchool. This simple task will eliminate all of the confusion when parents are at home trying to help their students find missing work. It will also help teachers to create a common language with their students when looking for makeup assignments.
Speakers
avatar for Beverly Foster

Beverly Foster

6th grade teacher, Abner Creek Middle

avatar for Brandie Pearson

Brandie Pearson

6th grade teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3236

2:00pm EDT

Make It Cute with Canva 💕✨: The Basics
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking for an easy way to create classroom materials that feel both professional and cute without spending hours designing? Join this hands-on session to learn how to use Canva to create engaging, classroom-ready resources that look polished yet retain personality. We’ll show you how to access the app, choose templates that match your needs, and use simple editing tools to customize your designs with confidence. With guided practice time built in, you’ll leave with presentation slides and handouts that are not only clear and professional but also attractive, creative, and ready to impress at our upcoming meet-the-teacher night. Whether you’re brand new or just want fresh ideas, this session will give you practical tools to make your materials stand out right away.
Speakers
avatar for Chelsea Thompson

Chelsea Thompson

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

avatar for Sydney Mims

Sydney Mims

Teacher, Berry Shoals Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2214

2:00pm EDT

Planning and Teaching with Canva
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Using Canva to support planning and instruction
Speakers
avatar for Katie Kinard

Katie Kinard

Literacy Coach, Wellford Academy

avatar for Hailey Maus

Hailey Maus

Interventionist, Wellford Academy

avatar for Bill Neyman

Bill Neyman

Math Coach, Wellford Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3342

2:00pm EDT

Using Pear Deck to Increase Engagement in the Classroom: Interactive Learning Strategies for Every Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Before attending this session, please attend the Pear Deck Vendor session!

Join us for an interactive session exploring how Pear Deck can transform classroom instruction through engagement, collaboration, and real-time feedback. This presentation will introduce teachers to the many ways Pear Deck can be used across grade levels and content areas to create student-centered learning experiences. Participants will discover practical strategies for increasing participation, checking for understanding, supporting diverse learners, and making lessons more interactive without completely redesigning existing materials.

Aligned with the theme D5Together, this session highlights how technology can strengthen classroom connections, amplify student voice, and foster collaborative learning environments where every student is actively involved. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use ideas, engagement strategies, and the confidence to begin implementing Pear Deck in their own classrooms.
Speakers
CF

Christina Ferrell

6th Grade ELA Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle
avatar for Krysti Ward

Krysti Ward

6th Grade Math Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2236

2:00pm EDT

Using Zearn to Learn
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Zearn can help your students learn in math! Come find out how! We will tell you more about the online platform, how to access it, and how to use it to best grow your students' academic achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Selman

Amanda Selman

3rd grade teacher, Lyman Elementary

avatar for Ginny Counterman

Ginny Counterman

Math Coach, Lyman Elementary

avatar for Heather Ross

Heather Ross

2nd grade teacher, Lyman Elementary

avatar for Stacy Green

Stacy Green

Math Interventionist, Lyman Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3318

2:00pm EDT

Zearn - Tailored Support for Students with Disabilities
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Tailored Support for Students with Disabilities is designed for educators already familiar with Zearn. Participants will explore how Zearn’s Digital Lessons support students with a variety of learning needs and will learn practical strategies for implementing accommodations, identifying barriers to understanding, and supporting students through targeted conferences and intervention planning.

Prerequisite: Participants must have completed Launch Zearn Math training, either during the June 10 session or the morning session on July 31, before attending this training.
Speakers
JM

Jennifer Madden

Partner Success, Zearn
Jennifer Madden, a partner success manager at Zearn, brings more than 20 years of experience in education as a teacher and school administrator in South Carolina. Most recently, she served as principal of Woodmont Middle School, where she led schoolwide academic initiatives and supported... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2355

2:00pm EDT

Annual Lab Safety Training for Science and STEM (science) Teachers
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Middle and high school teachers who conduct science labs are required to attend annual lab safety training. Review teacher expectations, SDS, Chemical inventory, PPE, safety equipment inspections, etc.
Speakers
avatar for Patricia White

Patricia White

Science Department Chair, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2351

2:00pm EDT

Intentional Beginnings: Rethinking the First Week of School
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Building a positive classroom community is essential for student success. This session will provide practical strategies for creating a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment where students feel valued and empowered. Whether you are a new teacher building your classroom foundation or a veteran teacher looking for a fresh restart, participants will leave with realistic, easy-to-implement ideas for routines, relationship-building, student independence, and strengthening communication with families.
Speakers
avatar for Ashley McClary

Ashley McClary

4th grade teacher, Berry Shoals Elementary

avatar for Caroline Ostheim

Caroline Ostheim

4th Grade ELA Teacher, Berry Shoals Elementary
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3234

2:00pm EDT

Back to Behavior Basics
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
By strengthening this foundation, teachers will be better equipped to respond proactively, reduce challenging behaviors, and build more positive, supportive classroom environments.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Brannon

Melissa Brannon

Behavior Specialist, Middle Tyger Community Center

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3316

2:00pm EDT

PCD (Teachers & TAs)
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Wendy Hite

Wendy Hite

Director of Special Services, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3302

2:00pm EDT

The Problem With Math is English: Supporting Language in Math Classrooms
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Based on the book The Problem With Math is English, our presentation will focus on the language and comprehension challenges that many learners face and that impede their success. Students who struggle with vocabulary, meaning, syntax, and/or context due to language, literacy, or other learning barriers are at a disadvantage. The session will focus on ways to reduce the language load while maintaining mathematical rigor.
Speakers
avatar for Erin Dinger

Erin Dinger

7th grade math teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

avatar for Sarah Green

Sarah Green

6th grade math teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT

2:00pm EDT

Creating Classroom Magic Without the Cringe
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers don’t remember every worksheet they completed as kids, but they DO remember how classrooms made them feel.

This session explores practical ways to create engaging classroom experiences that build student buy-in, strengthen classroom culture, and make learning memorable without adding unrealistic prep demands. We’ll look at small shifts in presentation, routines, storytelling, gamification, and classroom identity that help turn everyday lessons into experiences students actually care about.

Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas to increase engagement while maintaining rigor and structure.
Speakers
avatar for Elise Acosta

Elise Acosta

4th Grade Teacher, Reidville Elementary
Hi! I’m Elise Eakins, and I’m heading into my 8th year of teaching at Reidville Elementary. I have a Master’s in Education with a focus in Research in Practice and a specialization in Project Based Learning. I love finding ways to make learning feel exciting, memorable, and... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2245

2:00pm EDT

From Claims to Confidence: Making CER Click for Every Student
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Turn “I don’t know how to explain it” into confident scientific writing. In this interactive workshop, we’ll explore a student-friendly CER (Claim-Evidence-Reasoning) template that makes constructing arguments clear and manageable. Learn how to scaffold instruction so all students can succeed—then gradually raise the bar to develop deeper thinking and stronger reasoning. You’ll leave with engaging strategies, adaptable tools, and fresh ideas to make CER a natural part of your classroom.
Speakers
HB

Heather Bowles

7th Grade Science Teacher, D.R. Hill Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2232

2:00pm EDT

Hands on Math: Building Skills Through Play and Practice
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session focuses on how math games can be used as a powerful instructional tool in the elementary classroom. Rather than viewing games as an “extra,” this session highlights how they can provide meaningful, standards-aligned practice that builds both conceptual understanding and fluency. Through hands-on experiences, teachers will explore a variety of simple, low-prep math games that actively engage students while reinforcing key skills.

Participants will learn how to intentionally select and implement games that align with grade-level standards, support small group instruction, and encourage mathematical thinking and discussion. The session emphasizes practical strategies for incorporating games into daily routines—such as math centers, small groups, and intervention time—without adding much unnecessary planning or complexity.

By the end of the session, teachers will leave with ready-to-use game ideas, a clear understanding of how games support student learning, and actionable steps for bringing more engagement and purposeful practice into their math instruction. The goal is to make math both effective and enjoyable, helping students build confidence while developing essential skills through play and consistent practice.
Speakers
KG

Kara Gillespie

4th Grade Math Teacher, Tyger River Elementary

DH

Dana Hodge

Math Instructional Coach, Tyger River Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3212

2:00pm EDT

Let Grow: Building Student Confidence Through Independence
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session introduces the Let Grow approach and explores how increasing opportunities for student independence can positively impact confidence, resilience, and classroom culture. Participants will consider how small, intentional shifts can create space for students to take ownership, solve problems, and build self-efficacy. Open to counselors, teachers, and administrators, this session is designed for those interested in exploring new ways to support student growth through independence and real-world experiences.
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Jenkins

Jeff Jenkins

Director of Federal/Gifted Programs and School Counselors, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2212

2:00pm EDT

Using Engaging Nonfiction Text Types to Inspire Reading, Writing, and Creativity Matter
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores engaging ways to teach nonfiction by using mentor texts and creative nonfiction formats that move beyond traditional research reports. Participants will discover how different types of nonfiction—such as narrative nonfiction, graphic nonfiction, “Who Would Win?” style texts, and question-based informational writing—can inspire student reading, writing, and inquiry. The session will highlight practical classroom projects where students create their own nonfiction books, comics, podcasts, and research-based writing using accessible, low-prep strategies. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use ideas and mentor text pairings that make nonfiction more engaging, authentic, and student-driven across all grade levels.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Koon

Elizabeth Koon

Media Specialist, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3344

2:00pm EDT

IEP Meetings: Prepared, Professional, Productive
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this session, we will outline a basic planning process for IEP meetings, review IEP meeting etiquette, and discuss how to effectively communicate information during IEP meetings.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Wiley

Jessica Wiley

Special Education Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

avatar for Sina Guffey

Sina Guffey

Special Education Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3305

2:00pm EDT

AVID Tutorials in the General Education Classroom
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Attendees will learn about tutorials, request forms, and implementing tutorials in the general education classroom. AVID tutorials are a collaborative inquiry process where students work in small groups to deepen their understanding of rigorous academic content. Instead of giving answers, the focus is on asking questions, explaining thinking, and learning from peers.
Speakers
MS

Michael Sandlin

AVID Elective Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

avatar for Christy Hewitt

Christy Hewitt

Instructional Coach/AVID Site Coordinator, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
1319

2:00pm EDT

Beyond Worksheets: Engaging, Active Math Practice Students (and Teachers) Actually Enjoy
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores strategies for transforming traditional math practice into engaging, interactive experiences in middle and secondary classrooms. Participants will learn how to move beyond worksheets by incorporating movement, collaboration, teacher check-ins, and self-monitoring activities that promote student independence and reflection. The focus is on creating purposeful practice that increases engagement, deepens understanding, and makes math class meaningful and more enjoyable for students.
Speakers
avatar for Brittni Yount

Brittni Yount

Math Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
1307

2:00pm EDT

Diving into Desmos at D5
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover how the Desmos Graphing Calculator can enhance mathematics instruction through dynamic visualizations and interactive exploration. This session will introduce key features of Desmos and demonstrate practical ways to use the tool to deepen student understanding, increase engagement, and connect multiple representations of mathematical concepts. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas for incorporating Desmos into their classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Grimes

Amy Grimes

Math Teacher, James F. Byrnes High
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2239

2:00pm EDT

Making Morphology Fit: Integrating Word Work into Your Day
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
In this session, you will explore how morphology, the study of word parts such as prefixes, suffixes, and roots, can make your existing literacy instruction more effective. Instead of adding a new block or program, you will learn simple, high-impact ways to weave word work into routines you already use, including read-alouds, writing time, vocabulary instruction, and morning work.

You will engage in quick, hands-on activities, examine real classroom examples, and leave with a ready-to-use plan to integrate a short, repeatable morphology routine into your week. The focus is on keeping it simple, sustainable, and effective because small instructional moves, when used consistently, can lead to meaningful results for students.

Join us to strengthen your literacy instruction in a way that is manageable, meaningful, and easy to implement.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Hedden

Katie Hedden

Literacy Coach, Abner Creek Academy

avatar for Jonathan Godfrey

Jonathan Godfrey

4th Grade ELA Teacher, Abner Creek Academy

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3232

2:00pm EDT

Rethinking Grammar Instruction
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Research shows that grammar instruction in isolation doesn't stick with students.  Come and explore how to embed grammar across the ELA block.  Learn new instructional ideas that help students transfer grammar skills into meaningful reading and writing experiences.
Speakers
avatar for Shauna Bartel

Shauna Bartel

Literacy Coach, Reidville Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3348

2:00pm EDT

The Instructional Cha-Chas: Chew
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Are you tired of using the same old instructional strategies in your classes? Are you looking for new, highly engaging, brain-based strategies to help your students achieve? Sign up for The Instructional Cha-Chas: Chew session and leave with at least 4 fun, engaging, research-based instructional strategies to take back to your students. You may also want to sign up for The Instructional Cha-Chas: Chunk session and learn how and why you should be chunking your lessons. Both sessions are based on LeeAnn Nickelson's book Teaching with the Instructional Cha-Chas.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Jewett

Kelly Jewett

Continuous Improvement Facilitator, James F. Byrnes High

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2234

2:00pm EDT

Thinking About Thinking: Boosting Reading Through Metacognition
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This interactive session introduces participants to the power of metacognition in strengthening reading skills. Through engaging games and hands-on activities, participants will explore how thinking about their own thinking can improve comprehension, focus, and problem-solving. Attendees will experience practical strategies they can use immediately to help students become more aware, reflective, and independent readers.
Speakers
avatar for Caroline Davis

Caroline Davis

Literacy Coach, Tyger River Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3214

2:00pm EDT

2:00pm EDT

Imagine Learning
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2389

2:00pm EDT

Learning.com
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Kevin Combs

Kevin Combs

SC Program Manager, Learning.com
Kevin Combs is a visionary leader at the intersection of education and technology and serves as Key Accounts Manager for South Carolina at Learning.com. With 30+ years across industry and public education, he blends technical acumen, instructional innovation, and strategic leadership... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2387

2:00pm EDT

MagicSchool
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Richard Atkins

Richard Atkins

Customer Success Manager, MagicSchool
Richard Atkins is a seasoned educator and former middle school principal with over 10 years of experience in K–12 education. He is passionate about educational equity, innovation, and lifelong learning.
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2385

2:00pm EDT

Panorama
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
TS

Traci Shigley

Panorama Education
Traci is a results‑driven Professional Learning Director who empowers educators to elevate student achievement and well‑being through strategic coaching and high‑quality professional development. She brings proven expertise in program management, professional learning systems... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2390

2:00pm EDT

Promethean
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Ernie Faulkenberry

Ernie Faulkenberry

Vendor, Promethean
Changing the way we teach and collaborate
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2392

2:00pm EDT

SCLearn & The Instruction HUB
LIMITED
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
Limited Capacity seats available

Speakers
avatar for Paige Mitchell

Paige Mitchell

Office of Instructional Materials, South Carolina Department of Education
Paige Mitchell is the iHub Coordinator for the Office of Instructional Materials at the South Carolina Department of Education. In her role, Paige supports districts and schools in integrating technology into their classrooms through the SC Instruction Hub.
Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
2218
 

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