D5TOGETHER

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

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

10:00am EDT

Awareness: Sex Trafficking 101

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

Theresa Perry

Switch

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3317

General Information

Session Focus Trauma Informed Practices
Grade Level High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Directors, Instructional Coaches, Instructional Technology Coaches, Interventionists, Mental Health Therapists, Nurses, Parent Educators, School Administrators, School Counselors, School Psychologists, Teachers, Teachers Assistants, Support Staff

10:00am EDT

Getting Started the D5 Way

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

Ashley Williams

Coordinator of Induction and Mentoring, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
3352

General Information

Session Focus Other
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role School Administrators, Teachers, Induction Teachers

10:00am EDT

Your New Favorite Teacher Websites that Drive Class Engagement

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

Laura Kate Lane

Math Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

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

Instructional Technology

Session Focus Collaborative Learning
Grade Level Middle (6-8), High (9-12)
Subject Mathematics, Science, STEM
Role Teachers

10:00am EDT

School Counselors and teachers working together to support student success

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

Chelsea Eubanks

School Counselor, Florence Chapel Middle

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

Mental Health & Well-Being

Session Focus Supporting Students
Grade Level Elementary (3 -5), Middle (6-8)
Subject English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, CTE, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Interventionists, School Administrators, School Counselors, Teachers

10:00am EDT

Teaching in Circles (The good kind)

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

Heather Bowles

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

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

Student Engagement & Motivation

Session Focus Differentiation & Student Support
Grade Level Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

10:00am EDT

Instructional Cha-Chas: Chunking for Better Understanding

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

Ashley Watts

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

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

Teaching & Learning

Session Focus Data Driven Decisions Using Assessment & Feedback
Grade Level Middle (6-8), High (9-12)
Subject English Language Arts, CTE, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

11:00am EDT

Getting Started the D5 Way

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

Ashley Williams

Coordinator of Induction and Mentoring, District Office

Friday July 31, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am EDT
3352

General Information

Session Focus Other
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role School Administrators, Teachers, Induction Teachers

11:00am EDT

Your New Favorite Teacher Websites that Drive Class Engagement

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

Laura Kate Lane

Math Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

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

Instructional Technology

Session Focus Collaborative Learning
Grade Level Middle (6-8), High (9-12)
Subject Mathematics, Science, STEM
Role Teachers

11:00am EDT

Teaching in Circles (The good kind)

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

Heather Bowles

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

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

Student Engagement & Motivation

Session Focus Differentiation & Student Support
Grade Level Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

11:00am EDT

Instructional Cha-Chas: Chunking for Better Understanding

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

Ashley Watts

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

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

Teaching & Learning

Session Focus Data Driven Decisions Using Assessment & Feedback
Grade Level Middle (6-8), High (9-12)
Subject English Language Arts, CTE, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

12:00pm EDT

Brainstorming Behaviors: Creative Ways to Find Function and Develop Strategies in the Classroom

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

Amy Bowman

Behavior Interventionist, Duncan Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3322

Classroom Management & Behavior

Session Focus Behavior & Classroom Management
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Bus Drivers, K5 Assistants, Teachers, Teachers Assistants

12:00pm EDT

The Library as a Classroom Extension: Tools, Resources, and Support for Teachers at Byrnes High School

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

Media Center (3343)

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

Victoria Dickerson

Librarian, James F. Byrnes High

Dickreson

Sheila Roberts

Librarian, James F. Byrnes High

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

Content-Specific Sessions

Session Focus Other
Grade Level High (9-12)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

12:00pm EDT

Awareness: Sex Trafficking 101

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

Theresa Perry

Switch

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
3317

General Information

Session Focus Trauma Informed Practices
Grade Level High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Directors, Instructional Coaches, Instructional Technology Coaches, Interventionists, Mental Health Therapists, Nurses, Parent Educators, School Administrators, School Counselors, School Psychologists, Teachers, Teachers Assistants, Support Staff

12:00pm EDT

Make It Cute with Canva 💕✨: The Basics

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

Sydney Mims

Teacher, Berry Shoals Elementary

Chelsea Thompson

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

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

Instructional Technology

Session Focus Instructional Technology & AI
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

12:00pm EDT

Using Pear Deck to Increase Engagement in the Classroom: Interactive Learning Strategies for Every Classroom

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

Krysti Ward

6th Grade Math Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Christina Ferrell

6th Grade ELA Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Friday July 31, 2026 12:00pm - 12:50pm EDT
2236

Instructional Technology

Session Focus Data Driven Decisions Using Assessment & Feedback
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

12:00pm EDT

From Overwhelm to Ownership: ADHD, Executive Function, & AVID in Action

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

Dr. Amberley Raushenberger

PLTW/AVID Site Coordinator, Lyman Elementary

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

Special Populations, AVID

Session Focus Differentiation & Student Support
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Interventionists, Teachers

12:00pm EDT

From Markup to Deeper Meaning: Mastering the AVID Critical Reading Process

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

Geoff Turner

AVID Elective Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

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

Student Engagement & Motivation, AVID

Session Focus Student Engagement & Classroom Practice
Grade Level Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Science, Social Studies, STEM
Role Teachers

12:00pm EDT

The Instructional Cha-Chas: Chew

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

Kelly Jewett

Continuous Improvement Facilitator, James F. Byrnes High

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

Teaching & Learning

Session Focus Student Engagement & Classroom Practice
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers, Instructional Coaches

1:00pm EDT

The Library as a Classroom Extension: Tools, Resources, and Support for Teachers at Byrnes High School

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

Media Center (3343)

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

Victoria Dickerson

Librarian, James F. Byrnes High

Dickreson

Sheila Roberts

Librarian, James F. Byrnes High

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

Content-Specific Sessions

Session Focus Other
Grade Level High (9-12)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

1:00pm EDT

Awareness: Sex Trafficking 101

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

Theresa Perry

Switch

Friday July 31, 2026 1:00pm - 1:50pm EDT
3317

General Information

Session Focus Trauma Informed Practices
Grade Level High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Directors, Instructional Coaches, Instructional Technology Coaches, Interventionists, Mental Health Therapists, Nurses, Parent Educators, School Administrators, School Counselors, School Psychologists, Teachers, Teachers Assistants, Support Staff

1:00pm EDT

Competition Robotics Workshop

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

Tommy Peake

Teacher, Byrnes Freshman Academy

Peyton Proffit

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

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

Innovation & Future-Focused Topics

Session Focus Other
Grade Level Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, STEM
Role Teachers

1:00pm EDT

"No More Guesswork": Schoology and PowerSchool Made Easy

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

Brandie Pearson

6th grade teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Beverly Foster

6th grade teacher, Abner Creek Middle

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

Instructional Technology

Session Focus Other
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, Physical Education, CTE, STEM
Role Instructional Coaches, Interventionists, School Administrators, Teachers, Instructional Technology Coaches, Literacy Coaches, Math Coaches, School Counselors

1:00pm EDT

From Overwhelm to Ownership: ADHD, Executive Function, & AVID in Action

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

Dr. Amberley Raushenberger

PLTW/AVID Site Coordinator, Lyman Elementary

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

Special Populations, AVID

Session Focus Differentiation & Student Support
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Interventionists, Teachers

1:00pm EDT

From Markup to Deeper Meaning: Mastering the AVID Critical Reading Process

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

Geoff Turner

AVID Elective Teacher, Beech Spring Middle

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

Student Engagement & Motivation, AVID

Session Focus Student Engagement & Classroom Practice
Grade Level Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Science, Social Studies, STEM
Role Teachers

1:00pm EDT

Trust--It Starts With the Small Things

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

Rhea Dobson

Senior Aerospace Science Instructor, James F. Byrnes High

Patricia White

Science Department Chair, James F. Byrnes High

Adam Clarke

Aerospace Science Instructor, James F. Byrnes High

Wesley Helseth

Aerospace Science Instructor, James F. Byrnes High

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

Student Engagement & Motivation

Session Focus Other
Grade Level Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Physical Education, Science, STEM, Social Studies
Role School Administrators, Teachers

2:00pm EDT

Brainstorming Behaviors: Creative Ways to Find Function and Develop Strategies in the Classroom

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

Amy Bowman

Behavior Interventionist, Duncan Elementary

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3322

Classroom Management & Behavior

Session Focus Behavior & Classroom Management
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Bus Drivers, K5 Assistants, Teachers, Teachers Assistants

2:00pm EDT

Awareness: Sex Trafficking 101

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

Theresa Perry

Switch

Friday July 31, 2026 2:00pm - 2:50pm EDT
3317

General Information

Session Focus Trauma Informed Practices
Grade Level High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Directors, Instructional Coaches, Instructional Technology Coaches, Interventionists, Mental Health Therapists, Nurses, Parent Educators, School Administrators, School Counselors, School Psychologists, Teachers, Teachers Assistants, Support Staff

2:00pm EDT

"No More Guesswork": Schoology and PowerSchool Made Easy

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

Beverly Foster

6th grade teacher, Abner Creek Middle

Brandie Pearson

6th grade teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

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

Instructional Technology

Session Focus Other
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, Physical Education, CTE, STEM
Role Instructional Coaches, Interventionists, School Administrators, Teachers, Instructional Technology Coaches, Literacy Coaches, Math Coaches, School Counselors

2:00pm EDT

Make It Cute with Canva 💕✨: The Basics

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

Chelsea Thompson

Teacher, James F. Byrnes High

Sydney Mims

Teacher, Berry Shoals Elementary

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

Instructional Technology

Session Focus Instructional Technology & AI
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

2:00pm EDT

Using Pear Deck to Increase Engagement in the Classroom: Interactive Learning Strategies for Every Classroom

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

Christina Ferrell

6th Grade ELA Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

Krysti Ward

6th Grade Math Teacher, Florence Chapel Middle

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

Instructional Technology

Session Focus Data Driven Decisions Using Assessment & Feedback
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers

2:00pm EDT

From Claims to Confidence: Making CER Click for Every Student

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

Heather Bowles

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

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

Student Engagement & Motivation

Session Focus Other
Grade Level Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, STEM
Role Teachers

2:00pm EDT

Let Grow: Building Student Confidence Through Independence

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

Jeff Jenkins

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

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

Student Engagement & Motivation

Session Focus Supporting Students
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role School Counselors, School Administrators, Teachers

2:00pm EDT

The Instructional Cha-Chas: Chew

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

Kelly Jewett

Continuous Improvement Facilitator, James F. Byrnes High

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

Teaching & Learning

Session Focus Student Engagement & Classroom Practice
Grade Level Early Elementary (Pre-K - 2), Elementary (3 -5), High (9-12), Middle (6-8)
Subject CTE, English Language Arts, Fine Arts, Mathematics, Modern Language, Multilingual Learners, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Special Education, STEM
Role Teachers, Instructional Coaches