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Wednesday, July 15
 

7:30am EDT

Coffee/Breakfast Snacks/Registration (Fueling Station)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 7:30am - 8:15am EDT

Wednesday July 15, 2026 7:30am - 8:15am EDT
Golden Bear Boulevard

8:15am EDT

"Countdown to Launch" Music
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:15am - 8:30am EDT
Join us in the PAC before the "welcome" and first keynote presentation for a lively mini-concert by local band favorite, "Hit or Miss."
Speakers
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:15am - 8:30am EDT
Performing Arts Center

8:30am EDT

Ready to Launch: Welcome to the 2026 Summer Institute!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:30am - 8:45am EDT
Join Bob Hunt, Superintendent of Upper Arlington Schools and Emmy, Ellen, Kathy, and Kristin from Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership as they welcome participants to the 2026 Summer Institute.
Speakers
avatar for Bob Hunt

Bob Hunt

Superintendent, Upper Arlington Schools

avatar for Ellen Erlanger

Ellen Erlanger

Co-Founder and Director of Professional Learning, Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership

avatar for Kathy Meyer

Kathy Meyer

Co-Founder and Director of Professional Learning, Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership
Partnerships for ALL
avatar for Emmy Beeson

Emmy Beeson

Executive Director, Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership
Greetings fellow travelers.  Thank you for joining us in the this journey to reconnect to the Joy of Teaching and Learning.  When I was a school leader, through trial and error, I fell in love with authentic learning experiences for staff and students because I saw teachers who... Read More →
avatar for Kristin Bourdage

Kristin Bourdage

Director of Professional Learning, Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership
Dr. Kristin Bourdage is a passionate educator with more than 32 years of experience as a middle school and Title I Reading teacher, literacy coach, education researcher, professor of education, district administrator, and professional learning leader. She currently serves as a professional... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:30am - 8:45am EDT
Performing Arts Center

8:45am EDT

The Future of Learning Is Human
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am EDT
What becomes possible when we design schools around the capacities that make us irreplaceably human?In this interactive keynote, educator, author, and possibilitarian Sam Chaltain and learning scientist and people researcher Dr. Jane Shore invite participants into a shared exploration of what it means to be human in a rapidly changing world, and what that means for the future...
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Speakers
avatar for Sam Chaltain

Sam Chaltain

samchaltain.com, Writer/Storyteller
Sam Chaltain is an educator, author, and possibilitarian whose work explores what becomes possible when we reimagine the assumptions underlying school and learning.
avatar for Jane Shore

Jane Shore

Founder, School of Thought
"I'm a learning scientist, school co-founder, visual thinker, and self-described peopleologist who studies and designs for what people make possible for one another.Come find me if you want to talk about: People-Based Learning, designing schools and gatherings where people learn with... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am EDT
Performing Arts Center

10:00am EDT

Connect and Reflect: “Creating Schools That Are Out of This World!”
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT
We're on an important mission together. So let's "connect and reflect" in small groups to explore how we can make a difference together!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 10:00am - 10:55am EDT
Field House

11:10am EDT

Juggling Potential to Achieve Authentic Learning & Leadership
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm EDT
Trying to bring the fullness of yourself into the work you do? Be encouraged to walk the tightrope of melding hobbies, passions, and workplace initiatives in an effort to master the juggling act of leveraging your potential. Through stories, actual juggling, and crowd participation, Dr. Jen Mott will leave you inspired to reassess the talents you can tap into in order to bring the fullness of who...
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Speakers
avatar for Jen Mott

Jen Mott

Assistant Principal & Athletic Director, Mason City Schools
Dr. Jen Mott has been with Cincinnati Circus Company since 2006 as a juggler, stilt-walker, balloon artist, and fire performer. She also began college that same year. Since then, she earned both her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education for Spanish and completed her Master’s... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 11:10am - 12:00pm EDT
Performing Arts Center

12:05pm EDT

Lunch and Networking
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:05pm - 1:15pm EDT
There are multiple lines to alleviate long waits! 
Wednesday July 15, 2026 12:05pm - 1:15pm EDT
Golden Bear Boulevard

1:25pm EDT

Authentic Learning as an “Achievement Culture” Cure
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
We are in the midst of a youth mental health crisis that is reaching a critical stage. Many of our students experience anxiety and depression; some describe living in a constant state of stress. Teen anxiety and depression levels are particularly high in affluent communities where students feel extreme pressure to achieve. In this session, we will examine the problem with input from a student, a...
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Speakers
avatar for Steve Shapiro

Steve Shapiro

Co-Founder, Our Family Culture
Steve Shapiro is a veteran school reimaginer, with over 30 years of K-12 classroom teaching experience, 15 concurrent years as a high school humanities program director, and four years as a district leader of experiential learning. In response to the unsettling state of youth mental... Read More →
NS

Nancy Shapiro

Co-Founder, Our Family Culture
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W1401

1:25pm EDT

Blue Lobster Lessons: Designing Unforgettable Learning Experiences! (REPEATED JULY 16, 11:00 am to 11:55 am, Room W2102)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
What if schools intentionally cultivated “blue lobster” classrooms—rare, unforgettable learning experiences that students talk about for years? Blue lobsters occur only once in every two million lobsters because of a rare genetic trait. In the same way, extraordinary classrooms are created through intentional habits, bold creativity, meaningful relationships, engaging instruction, and...
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Speakers
avatar for Buddy Berry

Buddy Berry

Superintendent, EIS
Dr. Buddy Berry is the superintendent of Eminence Independent Schools in Kentucky. He founded the innovative model “School on FIRE” (Framework of Innovation for Reinventing Education). Buddy was recognized by the Obama Administration as one of the top 100 School Superintendents... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W2102

1:25pm EDT

From Quiet to Curious: Building Question-Asking Skills in Grades 6–12 Through Authentic Interviews (SESSION REPEATED JULY 15, 2:30 pm to 3:25 pm, Room W1102)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
Teenagers interview people all the time—patients in healthcare pathways, local industry partners in CTE, experts for research projects, even peers and families. But very few have ever been explicitly taught how to ask professional‑quality questions.This interactive workshop, based on the forthcoming book From Quiet to Curious: A Teacher’s Guide to Building Question-Asking Skills in Grades...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Annalies Corbin

Annalies Corbin

Founder & CEO, PAST Foundation
Annalies Corbin is the Founder, President & CEO of the PAST Foundation, an internationally recognized nonprofit that designs and implements STEM‑rich, inquiry-based learning experiences with schools, districts, and industry partners. With a background in anthropology and STEM education... Read More →
avatar for Erika Reeves

Erika Reeves

Bodies Learning Lab, Metro Early College STEM High School
Erika Reeves is a veteran educator, Master Teacher, and STEM Bodies Coordinator at Metro Early College High School in Columbus, Ohio. She teaches advanced Anatomy & Physiology while leading innovative biomedical career pathways that connect students with authentic research and healthcare... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W1102

1:25pm EDT

How Do We Intentionally Teach Critical Thinking Skills? (SESSION REPEATED JULY 16, 11:00 am - 11:55 am)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
Critical thinking shouldn't just be a happy accident—it’s a skill that can and should be taught with purpose. In this session, participants will explore practical strategies for embedding critical thinking into daily instruction across content areas. We’ll unpack what “critical thinking” really means, examine its key components, and identify common misconceptions that get in the way of...
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Speakers
avatar for Todd Stanley

Todd Stanley

Gifted Services Coordinator, Pickerington Local Schools

Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W2103

1:25pm EDT

Learning Through One Another—A People-Based Learning Consultancy (SESSION REPEATED JULY 15, 3:35 pm - 4:30 pm, Room W2101)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
What if one of the greatest learning resources at this conference isn't on the program, but sitting beside you?Join Sam Chaltain and Jane Shore for an interactive session built around the Consultancy Protocol, a People-Based Learning approach that helps participants think more deeply about authentic challenges by learning with and through one another.Come with a problem of practice you're...
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Speakers
avatar for Sam Chaltain

Sam Chaltain

samchaltain.com, Writer/Storyteller
Sam Chaltain is an educator, author, and possibilitarian whose work explores what becomes possible when we reimagine the assumptions underlying school and learning.
avatar for Jane Shore

Jane Shore

Founder, School of Thought
"I'm a learning scientist, school co-founder, visual thinker, and self-described peopleologist who studies and designs for what people make possible for one another.Come find me if you want to talk about: People-Based Learning, designing schools and gatherings where people learn with... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W2101

1:25pm EDT

Portrait to Practice to Project: A Case Study in District Transformation Fueled by Authentic Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
Seven years ago, Belpre City Schools formally adopted its Portrait of a Graduate. Learn about Belpre's innovative professional development program that built educator capacity to create authentic educational units for all learners and create alignment within the system. Find out how that success led to the passage of the district's first capital improvement bond in sixty years, and get a sneak...
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Speakers
JG

Jeffrey Greenley

Superintendent, Belpre City School District
Dr. Jeffrey Greenley currently serves as Superintendent of Belpre City School District and is in his eighth year. He is a published author in authentic educational system design and has championed that work since becoming part of EdLeader 21 and the Battelle for Kids SOAR Cohort... Read More →
EW

Erica Wright

Director of Teaching and Learning, Belpre City Schools

avatar for Jenn Fuller

Jenn Fuller

Project Executive, Principal, Fanning Howey
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W2107

1:25pm EDT

Teaching with Joy, Leading with Heart
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
Teaching with Joy, Leading with Heart invites educators to reconnect with the purpose and passion that brought them to this work. In the midst of increasing demands, this session focuses on practical, meaningful ways to cultivate joy across school communities. Participants will explore how small shifts in mindset, relationships and daily practices can create a more positive, energized environment...
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Speakers
avatar for Katie Appel

Katie Appel

Instructional Coach, Bexley City Schools

avatar for Megan Reeve

Megan Reeve

School Counselor, Bexley City Schools
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W2108

1:25pm EDT

The Ecosystem Equation: Activating Partnerships for Authentic STEM Learning
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
This interactive session explores how schools and communities can leverage their local ecosystems to create authentic, student-centered learning experiences that drive meaningful change. Co-facilitated through a partnership between the DO STEM Ecosystem leadership and the Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership Design Incubator, this session combines an example of design thinking in...
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Speakers
avatar for Jessica Short

Jessica Short

Chief of Operations, DO STEM
Jessica Short is the Chief of Operations at DO STEM, driving initiatives to advance STEM education in the Dayton region. Passionate about innovation and equity, she fosters collaboration between educators, students, and industry leaders, ensuring impactful programs that prepare future... Read More →
avatar for Kristin Bourdage

Kristin Bourdage

Director of Professional Learning, Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership
Dr. Kristin Bourdage is a passionate educator with more than 32 years of experience as a middle school and Title I Reading teacher, literacy coach, education researcher, professor of education, district administrator, and professional learning leader. She currently serves as a professional... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W1103

1:25pm EDT

The View from the Ship: Navigating Shifting Tides in Gifted Education
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
Systems leadership means holding fast to a shared vision while successfully navigating changing regulatory conditions, maintaining optimism, and supporting everyone on board. Reflecting on a 20-year voyage through the shifting tides of Ohio’s gifted education system, this session explores the history of our field and the lessons learned along the way. Come chart a course for the future as we...
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Speakers
avatar for Karen Rumley

Karen Rumley

Director of Instructional Program, Kent City Schools
Karen Rumley is retiring as the Director of Instructional Program for Kent City Schools, where she has coordinated district-wide curriculum initiatives and provided professional development to support student learning. She also served as the district’s testing coordinator, federal... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W2106

1:25pm EDT

When Student Centered Learning Includes Students (SESSION REPEATED JULY 15, 2:30 pm to 3:25 pm in Room W2408)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
Students from THE Ohio State University Student Leadership Research Collaborative (OSU SLRC)and Dr. Keith Bell The student team of Emma Rathburn, Najma Omar and Grace Vepouyoum from Groveport Madison High School and Neil Teri and Kennedi Freeman from New Albany High School will present on the Student Considerations for Implementation of AI Policies in Ohio School Districts. Through Youth...
See More →
Speakers
DK

Dr. Keith Bell, Sr.

OSU Student Leadership Collabortive, The Ohio State University, College of Education and Human Ecology
During a lengthy career as a teacher, principal, central-office administrator and ultimately a district superintendent, Keith Bell often preached to students that learning is a lifelong pursuit.Bell worked in six districts, almost all in central Ohio schools since starting as a high-school... Read More →
GV

Grace Vepouyoum

Student, Groveport Madison High School
avatar for Neil Teri

Neil Teri

Student, New Albany High School
NO

Najma Omar

Student, Groveport Madison High School
KF

Kennedi Freeman

Student, New Albany High School
ER

Emma Rathburn

Student, Groveport Madison High School
Wednesday July 15, 2026 1:25pm - 2:20pm EDT
W2408

2:30pm EDT

Beyond the Script: Bringing Joy and Authenticity to Mandated Literacy Curriculums (REPEATED JULY 15, 3:35 p.m. to 4:30 pm, W2407)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
Are you looking to bring engagement, authenticity, and joy into learning while working within state and district mandated literacy curriculums?  Join this collaborative roundtable discussion to share ideas, strategies, and practical examples that help students connect more deeply with required content.  Participants will leave with fresh inspiration and actionable approaches for making...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Hamm

Lisa Hamm

Kindergarten Teacher, Olentangy Local Schools, Heritage Elementary School

Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W2407

2:30pm EDT

Big Brand Brilliance
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
What’s your brand as an educator? How are you known by your students? What is your teacher “street cred”? Whatever your brand is, this session can help make you more purposeful about your instruction. Come learn how to “better your brand” by taking a deep dive into how the “Big Brands” run things. Learn from some of the principles that drive Disney, Starbucks, Nike,...
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Speakers
avatar for Buddy Berry

Buddy Berry

Superintendent, EIS
Dr. Buddy Berry is the superintendent of Eminence Independent Schools in Kentucky. He founded the innovative model “School on FIRE” (Framework of Innovation for Reinventing Education). Buddy was recognized by the Obama Administration as one of the top 100 School Superintendents... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W2102

2:30pm EDT

Cardboard and Curriculum
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
Think outside the box by teaching with the box! You don't need a massive budget or a high-tech makerspace to bring powerful, hands-on learning into your classroom. This interactive session explores how to transform everyday recyclable materials—from cardboard boxes to plastic caps—into dynamic learning tools that seamlessly integrate into your existing daily routines.We will look past basic...
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Speakers
avatar for Emily Byers

Emily Byers

Director of Technology and Innovation, Jonathan Alder Local Schools
Emily Byers is the Director of Technology and Innovation at Jonathan Alder Local Schools, where she dedicates her career to redefining what it means to learn. Emily blends deep academic expertise with a vibrant passion for hands-on, creative thinking. She specializes in STEM education... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W1105

2:30pm EDT

Connecting Math with the Great Outdoors
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
It's time to get outside with your math standards. By using a backward design process, this session will show you how you can get your class to see math in the real world, even if that is just outside of your building. Learn about how to connect your standards to gardening and outdoor education, and get some time to think through what ideas you have!

This session qualifies for Gifted PD hours.
Speakers
avatar for Shelly Bloom

Shelly Bloom

Gifted Intervention Specialist, Tremont Elementary School, Upper Arlington City Schools
I am a Gifted Intervention Specialist at the elementary level, specializing in math instruction. The content I deliver to my students ranges from focuses on extension and going in depth, as well as compacting and accelerating material. I have been teaching for 15 years and have always... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W1302

2:30pm EDT

From Meh to Memorable: Leadership Strategies that Build Student Agency
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
Many schools today feel stuck in what could be called the “Meh Era” of schooling: students are present but disengaged, and learning often feels transactional rather than meaningful. In this session, Nikole James explores how school leaders can move beyond compliance-driven systems and intentionally design structures that foster student agency, ownership, and purpose.Participants will learn...
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Speakers
NJ

Nikole James

Assistant Principal, New Albany High School
Nikole James is an Assistant Principal at New Albany High School and is currently in her 22nd year in education. She is a doctoral student in Educational Studies at The Ohio State University, where her research focuses on student agency and meaningful engagement in secondary schools... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W2302

2:30pm EDT

From Quiet to Curious: Building Question-Asking Skills in Grades 6–12 Through Authentic Interviews (SESSION REPEATED JULY 15, 1:25 pm to 2:20 pm, Room W1102)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
Teenagers interview people all the time—patients in healthcare pathways, local industry partners in CTE, experts for research projects, even peers and families. But very few have ever been explicitly taught how to ask professional‑quality questions.This interactive workshop, based on the forthcoming book From Quiet to Curious: A Teacher’s Guide to Building Question-Asking Skills in Grades...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Annalies Corbin

Annalies Corbin

Founder & CEO, PAST Foundation
Annalies Corbin is the Founder, President & CEO of the PAST Foundation, an internationally recognized nonprofit that designs and implements STEM‑rich, inquiry-based learning experiences with schools, districts, and industry partners. With a background in anthropology and STEM education... Read More →
avatar for Erika Reeves

Erika Reeves

Bodies Learning Lab, Metro Early College STEM High School
Erika Reeves is a veteran educator, Master Teacher, and STEM Bodies Coordinator at Metro Early College High School in Columbus, Ohio. She teaches advanced Anatomy & Physiology while leading innovative biomedical career pathways that connect students with authentic research and healthcare... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W1102

2:30pm EDT

Making Executive Functioning Skills Visible (SESSION REPEATED JULY 16, 9:55 am - 10:50 am)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
Executive functioning skills (EFS) are the building blocks to a successful person, and yet how purposeful are we in teaching these skills? When a student lacks focus, do we give them strategies for being more focused or do we simply tell them to be more focused? If a student is poor at organization, are we explicitly showing them what well organized looks like? As teachers, especially of the...
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Speakers
avatar for Todd Stanley

Todd Stanley

Gifted Services Coordinator, Pickerington Local Schools

Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W2103

2:30pm EDT

Meeting the Needs of Our Community: A K-5 Year-Long Service-Learning Project
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
How young is too young to raise social consciousness in students? Discover how a year-long service- learning project empowered K-5 students in Upper Arlington. Kids were able to learn about food and housing insecurity, including actionable steps that included making Move-In Kits for Home for Families and building and installing five free little pantries in Central Ohio. Walk away with an...
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Speakers
avatar for Kelli Wilcox

Kelli Wilcox

Kindergarten Teacher, Barrington Elementary, Upper Arlington Schools

avatar for Katie Benton

Katie Benton

Fourth Grade Progressive Teacher, District Service Learning Leader, Barrington Elementary School, Upper Arlington City Schools
Katie Benton has been an elementary school teacher for 25 years. She has been a service learning leader in Upper Arlington City Schools for the past 20 years and has worked on numerous high quality service learning projects across K-12.
AS

Ashley Stechschulte

2nd Grade Teacher, Barrington Elementary, Upper Arlington Schools


Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W2406

2:30pm EDT

Teaching ELA with a Purpose (and a Puppy)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
This session highlights a 6th-grade ELA service-learning project with a local dog rescue organization. In this four-week unit, students investigate a challenge faced by a local animal rescue organization, raise awareness to support adoptions, use a “see a problem, solve a problem” mindset, and of course use their ELA skills. Through daily interaction with a classroom puppy, guest presentations...
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Speakers
avatar for Rachel Jones

Rachel Jones

6th Grade ELA, Fairbanks Middle School, Fairbanks Local School District
Serving in education for the past 28 years, I have taught 4 grade levels and am currently a 6th grade ELA teacher with Fairbanks Local School District in Union County. I thoroughly enjoy learning projects that give my students engaging real-world experiences that connect them with... Read More →
avatar for Kristin Bourdage

Kristin Bourdage

Director of Professional Learning, Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership
Dr. Kristin Bourdage is a passionate educator with more than 32 years of experience as a middle school and Title I Reading teacher, literacy coach, education researcher, professor of education, district administrator, and professional learning leader. She currently serves as a professional... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W2401

2:30pm EDT

When Student Centered Learning Includes Students (SESSION REPEATED JULY 15, 1:25 pm to 2:20 pm in Room W2408)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
Students from THE Ohio State University Student Leadership Research Collaborative (OSU SLRC)and Dr. Keith Bell The student team of Emma Rathburn, Najma Omar and Grace Vepouyoum from Groveport Madison High School and Neil Teri and Kennedi Freeman from New Albany High School will present on the Student Considerations for Implementation of AI Policies in Ohio School Districts. Through Youth...
See More →
Speakers
DK

Dr. Keith Bell, Sr.

OSU Student Leadership Collabortive, The Ohio State University, College of Education and Human Ecology
During a lengthy career as a teacher, principal, central-office administrator and ultimately a district superintendent, Keith Bell often preached to students that learning is a lifelong pursuit.Bell worked in six districts, almost all in central Ohio schools since starting as a high-school... Read More →
KF

Kennedi Freeman

Student, New Albany High School
NO

Najma Omar

Student, Groveport Madison High School
ER

Emma Rathburn

Student, Groveport Madison High School
avatar for Neil Teri

Neil Teri

Student, New Albany High School
GV

Grace Vepouyoum

Student, Groveport Madison High School
Wednesday July 15, 2026 2:30pm - 3:25pm EDT
W2408

3:35pm EDT

Authentic Learning in Action (SESSION REPEATED JULY 16, 9:55AM TO 10:50AM)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
Come one, come all! No previous skill required - just the willingness to try something new (think juggling and/or balloon twisting!) in an effort to truly feel what authentic learning is like. With many metaphors and direct connections to the work we do, this session will allow participants to try a new skill and build meaningful connections to how authentic learning for everyone in a school --...
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Speakers
avatar for Jen Mott

Jen Mott

Assistant Principal & Athletic Director, Mason City Schools
Dr. Jen Mott has been with Cincinnati Circus Company since 2006 as a juggler, stilt-walker, balloon artist, and fire performer. She also began college that same year. Since then, she earned both her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education for Spanish and completed her Master’s... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W1103

3:35pm EDT

Beyond the Script: Bringing Joy and Authenticity to Mandated Literacy Curriculums (REPEATED JULY 15, 2:30 p.m. to 3:25 pm, W2407)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
Are you looking to bring engagement, authenticity, and joy into learning while working within state and district mandated literacy curriculums? Join this collaborative roundtable discussion to share ideas, strategies, and practical examples that help students connect more deeply with required content. Participants will leave with fresh inspiration and actionable approaches for making learning...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Hamm

Lisa Hamm

Kindergarten Teacher, Olentangy Local Schools, Heritage Elementary School

Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W2407

3:35pm EDT

Designing With, Not For: How Student Partnerships Drive Innovation
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
At Roto, we spend our days creating immersive exhibits and experiences for museums and cultural institutions. While exhibit development often begins with designers, educators, and subject matter experts, some of our most valuable insights come from the students who interact with our ideas along the way. Their questions, creativity, and unexpected perspectives help us create stronger experiences...
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Speakers
avatar for Jessie Hughes

Jessie Hughes

School Program and Evaluation Manager, Roto
Jessie brings 13+ years of classroom experience, specializing in STEM for 8th graders. Her expertise includes curriculum development and providing Professional Development for teachers. With a Bachelor’s in Middle Childhood Education and a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction... Read More →
avatar for Erek Nass

Erek Nass

Project Director, Roto
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W2403

3:35pm EDT

Getting Students to Think: Simple Ways to Get Outside the Curriculum
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
With scripted math curriculums and complicated standards, it can be hard to find ways to naturally integrate opportunities for critical thinking...the kind of math and sorts of problems that you truly encounter in the real world. In this session, you will solve a variety of problems and complete various exercises that are low prep, high reward, and don't take away significant time from your...
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Speakers
avatar for Shelly Bloom

Shelly Bloom

Gifted Intervention Specialist, Tremont Elementary School, Upper Arlington City Schools
I am a Gifted Intervention Specialist at the elementary level, specializing in math instruction. The content I deliver to my students ranges from focuses on extension and going in depth, as well as compacting and accelerating material. I have been teaching for 15 years and have always... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W1302

3:35pm EDT

It's All About Culture
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
Authentic learning requires much more than passive compliance. So how do we help students develop the mindsets and habits that will support authentic learning success? We must focus on the single force that provides the context of all human experience: CULTURE. In this interactive session, Steve will help you identify the specific student qualities that lead to effective authentic learning...
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Speakers
avatar for Steve Shapiro

Steve Shapiro

Co-Founder, Our Family Culture
Steve Shapiro is a veteran school reimaginer, with over 30 years of K-12 classroom teaching experience, 15 concurrent years as a high school humanities program director, and four years as a district leader of experiential learning. In response to the unsettling state of youth mental... Read More →
NS

Nancy Shapiro

Co-Founder, Our Family Culture
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W1401

3:35pm EDT

Leading Through Learning: Rethinking How Schools Learn and Adapt
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
Schools are rich with data. Every day, student work, formative assessments, and parent interactions give us invaluable feedback. Yet too often, our systems move more slowly than our classrooms. By the time we can truly act on insights, the moment has passed. As educators, we are constantly making thoughtful, brilliant adjustments, we are just doing it inside structures that weren't built for...
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Speakers
LH

Liz Hamen

Agile Lead, Nationwide
As an Agile Transformation Coach at Nationwide, my mission is to design scalable frameworks that empower teams to take true ownership of their work. I work to leverage my knowledge and expertise to deliver innovative and value-driven solutions that lead to high-value outcomes. Drawing... Read More →
avatar for Jamie Peeso

Jamie Peeso

Vice President, JP Morgan Chase

avatar for Linda Amici

Linda Amici

Educator, Westerville City Schools
Linda Amici is an educator passionate about empowering future leaders to “be the change” the world needs. As a middle school instructional coach for the Westerville City School District and part-time faculty member for Otterbein University, she seeks to inspire those around... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W2108

3:35pm EDT

Learning Through One Another—A People-Based Learning Consultancy (SESSION REPEATED JULY 15, 1:25 pm - 2:20 pm, Room W2101)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
What if one of the greatest learning resources at this conference isn't on the program, but sitting beside you?Join Sam Chaltain and Jane Shore for an interactive session built around the Consultancy Protocol, a People-Based Learning approach that helps participants think more deeply about authentic challenges by learning with and through one another.Come with a problem of practice you're...
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Speakers
avatar for Sam Chaltain

Sam Chaltain

samchaltain.com, Writer/Storyteller
Sam Chaltain is an educator, author, and possibilitarian whose work explores what becomes possible when we reimagine the assumptions underlying school and learning.
avatar for Jane Shore

Jane Shore

Founder, School of Thought
"I'm a learning scientist, school co-founder, visual thinker, and self-described peopleologist who studies and designs for what people make possible for one another.Come find me if you want to talk about: People-Based Learning, designing schools and gatherings where people learn with... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W2101

3:35pm EDT

Let's Get Cross-Curricular!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
Are you a teacher who is looking for more Accomplished marks on your OTES evaluation? Are you looking to be more collaborative with your colleagues and branch out cross-curricularly? This session will present on several Spanish cross-curricular projects. Materials will be available. Questions and feedback will be welcome!
Speakers
avatar for Jenna Bollinger

Jenna Bollinger

Spanish Teacher, Galion High School
High school Spanish teacher of nine years. Lover of all animals, particularly cats, euchre, reading, and traveling. I love looking at things under a microscope and I will always ask why.
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W1408

3:35pm EDT

Portrait of a Learner: Designing the Student of the Future... Today!
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
This session takes a deep dive into the glue that holds personalized learning together. Come hear real examples on how to transform your learning outcomes with dynamic, specific suggestions. Highlights include an overview of Graduate/ Learner Profiles, Exemplars, and Innovative Learning Outcomes. Participants will be taken on a guided journey of how to weave Next Practice with Best Practice to...
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Speakers
avatar for Buddy Berry

Buddy Berry

Superintendent, EIS
Dr. Buddy Berry is the superintendent of Eminence Independent Schools in Kentucky. He founded the innovative model “School on FIRE” (Framework of Innovation for Reinventing Education). Buddy was recognized by the Obama Administration as one of the top 100 School Superintendents... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W2102

3:35pm EDT

Using Inquiry Learning to Create Authentic Learners, Not Students
Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
Learning can sometimes feel very passive in schools. Teachers are the ones with the knowledge, and their task is to pass this along to their students. Or is it? Wouldn't learning be more natural if we allowed the kids to ask the questions and to chase their answers? This is what inquiry learning allows students to do. They pose the question, they decide how they are going to answer it, they choose...
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Speakers
avatar for Todd Stanley

Todd Stanley

Gifted Services Coordinator, Pickerington Local Schools

Wednesday July 15, 2026 3:35pm - 4:30pm EDT
W2103

4:30pm EDT

2026 Summer Institute Feedback Form/Contact Hour Certificate: Day 1, and "Now What"?? Information
Wednesday July 15, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Thank you for your participation at the 2026 Summer Institute on July 15.  Please take a few moments to complete the Feedback form for Day 1 only. Once you have completed and submitted the form (no later than July 22), you will be emailed a contact hour certificate by July 29.Please contact Emmy Beeson at [email protected] with any questions.Now What??Let’s...
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Wednesday July 15, 2026 4:30pm - 5:00pm EDT

4:40pm EDT

Summer Institute Ashland Graduate Credit Information (Optional)
Wednesday July 15, 2026 4:40pm - 4:50pm EDT
As part of the 2026 Summer Institute for Authentic Learning and Leadership (July 15–16), participants have the opportunity to earn two (2) semester hours of graduate credit through Ashland University.Participants who choose to earn graduate credit are responsible for the reduced tuition fee of $338 ($169 per credit hour).Please use the link below to review...
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Speakers
avatar for Kristin Bourdage

Kristin Bourdage

Director of Professional Learning, Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership
Dr. Kristin Bourdage is a passionate educator with more than 32 years of experience as a middle school and Title I Reading teacher, literacy coach, education researcher, professor of education, district administrator, and professional learning leader. She currently serves as a professional... Read More →
Wednesday July 15, 2026 4:40pm - 4:50pm EDT
N Commons 1st Floor
 
Thursday, July 16
 

8:30am EDT

Mission Authentic Learning: Moonshot Thinking to Imagine, Create, and Act!
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:40am EDT
Every great innovation in learning and leadership begins with imagining new possibilities and is fueled by the inspiration of others who have dared to dream big. In this interactive experience, participants will harness the power of their imaginations to identify an authentic challenge, hear from past Summer Institute keynoters “mission messages,” envision a creative solution, and develop...
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Speakers
avatar for Emmy Beeson

Emmy Beeson

Executive Director, Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership
Greetings fellow travelers.  Thank you for joining us in the this journey to reconnect to the Joy of Teaching and Learning.  When I was a school leader, through trial and error, I fell in love with authentic learning experiences for staff and students because I saw teachers who... Read More →
avatar for Kristin Bourdage

Kristin Bourdage

Director of Professional Learning, Partnerships for Authentic Learning and Leadership
Dr. Kristin Bourdage is a passionate educator with more than 32 years of experience as a middle school and Title I Reading teacher, literacy coach, education researcher, professor of education, district administrator, and professional learning leader. She currently serves as a professional... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 8:30am - 9:40am EDT
Performing Arts Center

9:55am EDT

Authentic Learning in Action (SESSION REPEATED JULY 15, 3:35 PM TO 4:30 PM)
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
Come one, come all! No previous skill required - just the willingness to try something new (think juggling and/or balloon twisting!) in an effort to truly feel what authentic learning is like. With many metaphors and direct connections to the work we do, this session will allow participants to try a new skill and build meaningful connections to how authentic learning for everyone in a school --...
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Speakers
avatar for Jen Mott

Jen Mott

Assistant Principal & Athletic Director, Mason City Schools
Dr. Jen Mott has been with Cincinnati Circus Company since 2006 as a juggler, stilt-walker, balloon artist, and fire performer. She also began college that same year. Since then, she earned both her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education for Spanish and completed her Master’s... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W1105

9:55am EDT

Give Better Than Facebook: Using Givebutter and Give Lively to Fund Your Ideas
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
The PAST Foundation recently added its first dedicated fundraising role. As schools and nonprofits navigate funding changes and challenges, our newest colleague (Chief Advancement Officer Bridget Tharp) shares best practices for teachers who want to raise funds for STEM activities, classroom supplies and more. Participants will learn:Why to avoid Facebook for fundraising purposes and what to...
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Speakers
avatar for Bridget Tharp

Bridget Tharp

Chief Advancement Officer (Fundraising/Development), The PAST Foundation
Bridget Tharp is Chief Advancement Officer at The PAST Foundation. Bridget leads fundraising strategy and relationship building for the organization. She joined PAST in 2026 after 12 years of experience in fundraising and strategic communications. Before PAST, her work included fundraising... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W1103

9:55am EDT

Launching Authentic Learning: STEM Strategies That Are Out of This World
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
Step into an out‑of‑this‑world learning experience where educators become explorers, immersing themselves in what high‑quality STEM instruction feels like when it truly takes off. Rather than observing strategies from afar, participants will engage in hands‑on, collaborative missions that model the inquiry, creativity, problem‑solving, and learner agency at the center of...
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Speakers
avatar for Sarah Redick

Sarah Redick

STEM Education Program Specialist, Ohio Department of Education and Workforce
Sarah Redick holds a PhD in STEM Education, as well as master's degrees in Educational Technology and Middle Childhood Education, and a bachelor's degree in Chemistry. She has over a decade of teaching experience, at both the middle school and post-secondary levels. Dr. Redick... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W2108

9:55am EDT

Making Executive Functioning Skills Visible (SESSION REPEATED JULY 15, 2:30 pm - 3:25 pm, Room W2103)
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
Executive functioning skills (EFS) are the building blocks to a successful person, and yet how purposeful are we in teaching these skills? When a student lacks focus, do we give them strategies for being more focused or do we simply tell them to be more focused? If a student is poor at organization, are we explicitly showing them what well organized looks like? As teachers, especially of the...
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Speakers
avatar for Todd Stanley

Todd Stanley

Gifted Services Coordinator, Pickerington Local Schools

Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W2103

9:55am EDT

Mini-Moments of Magic: Small Shifts for a Joyful Classroom Community
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
In this session, we will explore the question of how we can protect the soul of our classrooms without falling behind on curriculum or other mandates.  We will share and brainstorm intentional, low-lift, high-impact strategies designed to foster authentic belonging and joy. We will create a “toolkit for belonging” of micro-shifts that fit into the transitions, morning meetings, and even...
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Speakers
avatar for Adie Young

Adie Young

1st Grade Teacher, Cassingham Elementary School - Bexley City Schools
Adie Young has been cultivating curiosity and classroom community for 13 years, with the last eight spent in first grade at Cassingham Elementary School in Bexley Known for her heart-centered approach, Adie focuses on the foundational belief that student achievement begins with strong interpersonal connections.  She is passionate about creating high-energy, joy-infused learning environments where students feel safe to take risks and—most... Read More →
JF

Julie Fitzgerald

First Grade Teacher, Cassingham Elementary, Bexley City Schools

Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W2106

9:55am EDT

Out of This World Learning: Cultivating Community and Leadership Through Our Middle School Farmers Market
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
Step into a learning experience that is truly out of this world, where community, creativity, and authentic learning come together in the Hastings Middle School Farmers Market. In this session, you will explore how a fully student-driven marketplace was designed, planned, and operated by sixth graders who took on real-world roles across planning, marketing, and finance teams.While one group...
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Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Blank

Elizabeth Blank

Teacher, Hastings Middle School, Upper Arlington City Schools
Elizabeth Blank has been a dedicated educator at Hastings Middle School for 20 years. She is passionate about teaching, her students, and creating meaningful learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. With a love for the outdoors and gardening, Elizabeth works to connect... Read More →
BJ

Beth Joseph

Teacher, Hastings Middle School, Upper Arlington Schools

Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W2107

9:55am EDT

Parents’ Role in Supporting Authentic Learning
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
Teachers often lament that parents aren’t doing things at home that produce students with the habits and dispositions for authentic learning success. But how do we help parents do better? This session will explore tools that help parents raise kids who come to school ready for success in authentic learning projects. Let’s get beyond frustration with parents and move toward solutions that put...
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Speakers
avatar for Steve Shapiro

Steve Shapiro

Co-Founder, Our Family Culture
Steve Shapiro is a veteran school reimaginer, with over 30 years of K-12 classroom teaching experience, 15 concurrent years as a high school humanities program director, and four years as a district leader of experiential learning. In response to the unsettling state of youth mental... Read More →
NS

Nancy Shapiro

Co-Founder, Our Family Culture
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W1302

9:55am EDT

Passion Night... From Vision to Impact
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
Educators from Galion Intermediate School will share their journey of designing and implementing a school-wide Passion Night focused on authentic learning and student engagement. This session will walk participants through the full process—planning, execution, and reflection—providing practical strategies and real examples that can be adapted to any school setting.Participants will explore how...
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Speakers
avatar for Matt Dick

Matt Dick

Galion Intermediate Principal, Galion Intermediate, Galion City Schools
Galion Intermediate Principal 3-5 GradesApprox 370 studentsFinishing 2nd year as a principal and 6th year in administration.20 years in education10 years as Head Football Coach and 20 years of coaching experience.
KG

Katie Guy

5th ELA, Galion Intermediate, Galion City Schools

KS

Kelly Showecker

5th ELA/IS, Galion Intermediate, Galion City Schools
MH

Maura Hartley

4th ELA, Galion Intermediate, Galion City Schools
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W1401

9:55am EDT

Reimagining Special Education: Voice, Goals, and Real-World Learning
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
I’ll start things off with a short look at my journey as an intervention specialist—highlighting what changes I have made- like open communication, student-friendly IEP goals, elevating student voice, and bringing learning to life through authentic experiences and STEM projects.Then it’s your turn. We’ll collaborate, break into small, focused groups, and give you time to start shaping...
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Speakers
avatar for Theresa Knapp

Theresa Knapp

Intervention Specialist, Heritage Elementary Olentangy Schools
Theresa has been an elementary intervention specialist with Olentangy schools for 23 years.  She also teaches special education courses at Otterbein University as an adjunct professor.  Theresa enjoys bringing joyful, authentic learning to her students.  On the weekends, she loves... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W2101

9:55am EDT

The Gift of Student Voice: Creating Schools and Classrooms Where Student Voices Matter
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
Student voice is more than simply allowing students to share opinions—it is about empowering young people to become active participants, leaders, problem-solvers, and change agents within their schools and communities. When students feel heard, valued, and trusted, classrooms transform from places of compliance into environments filled with ownership, engagement, innovation, and purpose.In this...
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Speakers
avatar for Buddy Berry

Buddy Berry

Superintendent, EIS
Dr. Buddy Berry is the superintendent of Eminence Independent Schools in Kentucky. He founded the innovative model “School on FIRE” (Framework of Innovation for Reinventing Education). Buddy was recognized by the Obama Administration as one of the top 100 School Superintendents... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W2102

9:55am EDT

Thinking Beyond the Structured Literacy Curriculum
Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
Join a second and third grade teacher as they reflect on their journey of using a structured literacy curriculum in their classrooms for the first time. Hear various ways that they have enriched their students’ experience by adding in creativity challenges, service-learning projects, and other authentic reading and writing experiences. Learn how the structured curriculum and the enrichment meets...
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Speakers
avatar for Karmyn Metzger

Karmyn Metzger

2nd Grade Teacher / Instructional Coach, Worthington City Schools
Sarah Pence and Karmyn Metzger are Worthington City Schools educators. Sarah has been teaching in Worthington for 14 years, in both third and fourth grade. Karmyn has been teaching for 13 years, in both second and third grade. They enjoy focusing on the whole child and getting to... Read More →
avatar for Karen Rumley

Karen Rumley

Director of Instructional Program, Kent City Schools
Karen Rumley is retiring as the Director of Instructional Program for Kent City Schools, where she has coordinated district-wide curriculum initiatives and provided professional development to support student learning. She also served as the district’s testing coordinator, federal... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Pence

Sarah Pence

Teacher, Worthington City Schools

Thursday July 16, 2026 9:55am - 10:50am EDT
W1102

11:00am EDT

Blue Lobster Lessons: Designing Unforgettable Learning Experiences! (REPEATED JULY 15, 1:25 pm - 2:20 pm, Room W2102)
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
What if schools intentionally cultivated “blue lobster” classrooms—rare, unforgettable learning experiences that students talk about for years? Blue lobsters occur only once in every two million lobsters because of a rare genetic trait. In the same way, extraordinary classrooms are created through intentional habits, bold creativity, meaningful relationships, engaging instruction, and...
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Speakers
avatar for Buddy Berry

Buddy Berry

Superintendent, EIS
Dr. Buddy Berry is the superintendent of Eminence Independent Schools in Kentucky. He founded the innovative model “School on FIRE” (Framework of Innovation for Reinventing Education). Buddy was recognized by the Obama Administration as one of the top 100 School Superintendents... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W2102

11:00am EDT

Building a Culture of Kindness in Your School and Classroom
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
As school districts continue to face challenges related to attendance, staff morale and student engagement, leaders are searching for strategies that support both people and performance. This session examines how kindness can be intentionally leveraged to strengthen student outcomes while also reinvigorating staff and improving overall school culture.
Speakers
MC

Mike Collins

COO, Values-In-Action / President, MCG Strategies, Values-In-Action

Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W2406

11:00am EDT

Career and College Ready Pathway Idea Incubator
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Transform "random acts of authentic learning" into sustainable student success. In this fast-paced incubator, we explore the journey from Pedagogy to Pathway, shifting the focus from isolated projects to integrated systems. You’ll bring an initial concept, a project, a partnership, or a program, and use our “Spark Framework” to stress-test its alignment with college and career readiness....
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Speakers
avatar for Michele D Timmons

Michele D Timmons

Foounder and CEO, EnvisionEdPlus
As Founder and CEO of EnvisionEdPlus, Michele Timmons envisions a future where EACH young person thrives - in school and beyond. Michele oversees a high-quality, diverse team that supports formal and informal education-based organizations across the preschool - grade 12 spectrum... Read More →
TM

Tricia Moore

Chief Operations Officer, EnvisionEdPlus

Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W2408

11:00am EDT

Community Connections
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Looking for a way to connect your classroom to your community? I am presenting on 2 projects I completed this year that have led to connections within my school's community. The projects can translate to any age or grade level and can find their way into many different content levels/areas.    
Speakers
BP

Ben Pinciotti

K-5 Art Teacher, Cassingham Elementary, Bexley City Schools
I am an elementary Art Teacher with Bexley City Schools, nestled close to downtown Columbus, Ohio. I have been teaching Art for 20 years. I am always looking for new ways to bring in new techniques, projects and experiences into my classroom that revolve around creativity, Art, storytelling... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W2403

11:00am EDT

Fostering Student Agency Through Authentic Advisory Systems
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
This interactive workshop is designed to equip participants with strategies to foster student agency through intentional practices that can enhance any classroom setting. Participants will explore the foundations of advisory systems, clarifying an advisor’s role and discovering practical ways to build impactful, meaningful relationships with students. The session will cover essential concepts...
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Speakers
avatar for Alyssa Reder

Alyssa Reder

Director, OSLN Central OH STEM Hub, The PAST Foundation
Alyssa first joined PAST in 2014 as an Administrative Assistant to STEM Programming and Research. In 2021, her role shifted to STEM Program Coordinator where she coordinated, created, and collaborated within all areas of PAST, including work with students, educators and industry... Read More →
avatar for Paige Shalter Bruening, PhD

Paige Shalter Bruening, PhD

Director of Microschools & Project & Grant Coordination, The Past Foundation

Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W2401

11:00am EDT

How Do We Intentionally Teach Critical Thinking Skills? (SESSION REPEATED JULY 15, 1:25 pm - 2:20 pm)
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Critical thinking shouldn't just be a happy accident—it’s a skill that can and should be taught with purpose. In this session, participants will explore practical strategies for embedding critical thinking into daily instruction across content areas. We’ll unpack what “critical thinking” really means, examine its key components, and identify common misconceptions that get in the way of...
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Speakers
avatar for Todd Stanley

Todd Stanley

Gifted Services Coordinator, Pickerington Local Schools

Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W2103

11:00am EDT

Minds in Motion: A Creative STEM Journey for Every Child
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Join me as I share my journey of bringing design thinking and STEM projects into a classroom for students with mild to moderate disabilities. I’ll share the goals I set, the wins we celebrated, and the lessons learned along the way. This session is interactive—you’ll have the chance to offer feedback and ideas that will help shape the next phase of this evolving STEM adventure.
Speakers
avatar for Theresa Knapp

Theresa Knapp

Intervention Specialist, Heritage Elementary Olentangy Schools
Theresa has been an elementary intervention specialist with Olentangy schools for 23 years.  She also teaches special education courses at Otterbein University as an adjunct professor.  Theresa enjoys bringing joyful, authentic learning to her students.  On the weekends, she loves... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W2101

11:00am EDT

Shaping Perspectives through Podcasting
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Have you ever wondered how to turn student voice into meaningful, real-world impact? In this session, explore how students in grades 4–12 research, write, and produce original podcasts for the NPR Student Podcast Challenge—an authentic, student-driven learning experience that blends literacy, creativity, and civic engagement. Participants will see how this project empowers students to...
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Speakers
avatar for Cat Rinko-Gay

Cat Rinko-Gay

Gifted Intervention Specialist, Barrington Elementary School, Upper Arlington City Schools
Cat Rinko-Gay has worked in gifted education for 15 years. She began her career as a learning specialist and 3rd grade teacher at an all-gifted school in New York City. Since moving to Ohio, she has worked as a Gifted Intervention Specialist for the past 4 years, focusing on ELA and... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W1408

11:00am EDT

The Galion Pizza Problem
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
This presentation will showcase the successes and challenges of an authentic learning project my students completed in my 6th grade math class. Students had to decide which pizza place in our town was the best value based on the number of toppings. They used concepts of linear equations, tables and graphs along with customer service and taste to make their decisions.This project showed how algebra...
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Speakers
avatar for Rachel Gangwer

Rachel Gangwer

6th Grade Math Teacher, Galion Middle School- Galion City Schools
Rachel is a 6th grade math teacher at Galion Middle School. She has been teaching middle school math for 22 years. Her passion is working with students and seeing the "aha" moment when they finally understand a difficult concept. She also enjoys spending time with her family, camping... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W2407

11:00am EDT

The New Science of Leadership
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
Every leader leads in their own unique way. But most leaders fail in one of four common ways. In this session, we'll focus on those failures: How do they present in your life? What effects do they have in your home and work spaces?Participants will have a chance to self-diagnose the failure they are most prone to at this stage in their career. Then we'll work through a few exercises designed to...
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Speakers
avatar for Sarah Lagrotteria

Sarah Lagrotteria

Head educator, Just Bloom School
Sarah Lagrotteria (MA, Stanford) runs the Just Bloom training program, based on Dr. Angus Fletcher’s pioneering theory of creative leadership. In 2019, Sarah was honored as one of 50 women nationwide as a Tory Burch Foundation Fellow for women entrepreneurs. Just Bloom’s tra... Read More →
Thursday July 16, 2026 11:00am - 11:55am EDT
W2402

12:00pm EDT

Lunch and Networking
Thursday July 16, 2026 12:00pm - 1:10pm EDT
There are several lines to alleviate long waits!
Thursday July 16, 2026 12:00pm - 1:10pm EDT
Golden Bear Boulevard

1:20pm EDT

What? So What? Now What? Collaborative Reflection and Planning Time
Thursday July 16, 2026 1:20pm - 2:10pm EDT
What ideas did you imagine with Kristin and Emmy during their keynote address? What "tiny experiments" might you pursue as encouraged by Sam and Jane? As shared by Jen, how will you build your students' passions as well as your own into your plans? What ideas and experiences have been meaningful to you over the last two days? Looking ahead to the new school year, what would you and your colleagues...
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Thursday July 16, 2026 1:20pm - 2:10pm EDT
TBD

2:20pm EDT

Now What?? -- Preparing for Re-entry
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:20pm - 3:00pm EDT
We hope the Institute has been productive and inspiring, but Now What??Our opening keynoters, Jane Shore and Sam Chaltain, will “bookend” our time together by facilitating a very special closing celebration. They’ll share additional observations and new artwork just for us, and they’ll invite insights and shout-outs from the audience. Our special musical guest, Stephanie Doyle, will...
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Speakers
avatar for Sam Chaltain

Sam Chaltain

samchaltain.com, Writer/Storyteller
Sam Chaltain is an educator, author, and possibilitarian whose work explores what becomes possible when we reimagine the assumptions underlying school and learning.
avatar for Jane Shore

Jane Shore

Founder, School of Thought
"I'm a learning scientist, school co-founder, visual thinker, and self-described peopleologist who studies and designs for what people make possible for one another.Come find me if you want to talk about: People-Based Learning, designing schools and gatherings where people learn with... Read More →
avatar for Stephanie Doyle

Stephanie Doyle

Music Teacher, St. Christopher Catholic School
Thursday July 16, 2026 2:20pm - 3:00pm EDT
Performing Arts Center

3:00pm EDT

2026 Summer Institute Feedback Form/Contact Hour Certificate: Day 2
Thursday July 16, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
Thank you for your participation at the 2026 Summer Institute on July 16. Please take a few moments to complete the Feedback form for Day 2. Once you have completed and submitted the form (no later than July 23), you will be emailed a contact hour certificate around July 30.

Please contact Emmy Beeson, [email protected], with any questions.
Thursday July 16, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
 
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