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“I don’t like reading” is a phrase teachers hear all too often. But, what if reading did not mean sitting in silence? Active literacy strategies like reader’s theater transform reading into a social and engaging activity that builds fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Once seen as only for the elementary grades, research now shows that reader’s theater also empowers secondary students. This session will share practical strategies — including reader’s theater, interactive fiction, and word games — that turn reluctant readers into confident participants.
Have you found understanding school finance to be difficult? You are not alone, most educators, parents and community members find it very complex and hard to understand. This session is designed to strengthen financial literacy among educators and administrators by breaking down the complexities of Missouri’s public school funding system. Participants will deepen their understanding of key components of the state’s funding formula and identify major revenue sources, including local, state, and federal contributions. The session will also explore how legislative decisions shape school funding, with opportunities to analyze proposed bills and their potential impact on districts. Through this learning, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to effectively advocate with state legislators, develop strong communication strategies with policymakers, and engage thoughtfully in education policy discussions that influence the future of their schools and communities. Participants will leave with a School Finance 101 Quick Guide and Advocacy Toolkit.
What do you do when students don’t master essential standards? This session offers a focused look at high-impact RTI practices for grades 6–12, grounded in the RTI at Work model from Solution Tree. Designed specifically for the unique structures and constraints of secondary schools, participants will explore how to identify skill gaps, group students strategically, and deliver targeted support within limited time. Built on a “by student, by standard” approach, this session highlights practical strategies for creating RTI cycles, using assessment to drive decisions, and measuring impact on student learning. This condensed session includes access to full resources.
We will dive into practical, research-backed strategies for crafting high-quality assessments that drive student growth. Participants will explore how to design a variety of assessment items and track progress effectively, ensuring assessments are clear, aligned with learning goals, and impactful. We’ll also discuss time-saving tools, including AI, to streamline the creation of proficiency scales and assessment item banks. By the end of the session, attendees will have actionable insights to enhance their assessment practices and support ongoing student progress.
