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Thursday, June 12
 

7:30am CDT

Registration
Thursday June 12, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Thursday June 12, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Lobby

9:00am CDT

KEYNOTE: The Audacity to Believe: Thriving in Education's New Age
Thursday June 12, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Facing tech disruptions and rising turnover, educators need more than just survival skills. "The Audacity to Believe" empowers teachers to become changemakers, igniting inspiration and practical strategies. Michael Bonner, a renowned educator, shows you how to cultivate a "believer's" mindset within your classroom, sparking positive ripples throughout your school, county, and district.
Based on research, Mr. Bonner unveils 5 key traits of effective teacher leaders:
  • Unwavering belief in student potential: You'll discover how to foster a "can-do" attitude, ensuring every student sees themselves as capable learners.
  • Learning as the key to success: Learn how to connect academic achievement with real-world success, motivating students to invest in their education.
  • Tailored instruction for individual needs: Equip yourself with strategies to provide customized learning experiences that empower each student to excel.
  • Building resilience through failure: Explore healthy approaches to failure, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.
  • Embrace feedback for continuous improvement: Discover the power of constructive criticism for honing your craft and staying at the forefront of education.
Prepare to leave this speech feeling energized and ready to inspire the next generation! Join Michael Bonner and unlock the audacious potential within you and your students.
Speakers
avatar for Michael Bonner

Michael Bonner

CEO, Bonnerville
Michael Bonner is a renowned leader, innovator, and performance booster, who is a trailblazer in leadership development and organizational culture. He is a dynamic keynote speaker as seen on The Ellen Show, NBC Nightly News, and Time for Kids and a recent recipient of Atlanta's 40... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Ziock Ballroom

10:15am CDT

Beyond Happy and Sad: A Crash Course in Emotional Literacy
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Ever feel like your emotions are a tangled mess, leaving you confused and overwhelmed? You're not alone! In this fast-paced, engaging one-hour session, we'll dive headfirst into the world of emotional literacy, providing you with the essential tools to understand and navigate your inner landscape. This crash course is designed for anyone who wants to better understand themselves and others. Whether you're a seasoned feeler or someone who struggles to connect with their emotions, you'll walk away with practical insights and actionable steps to improve your emotional intelligence.
Speakers
avatar for Matt Weld

Matt Weld

SEL Coach, Regional Office of Education #40
Current Area 5 SEL Coach. Former Director of Online Learning and Technology, K-8 Tech Coach, JH asst. Principal, and 7th grade science and ELA teacher. Always Dad and husband, RYT-200, Google Trainer, IL Master Gardener, bibliophile, outdoorsman, DIY-er and artist.
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Talcott Room A

10:15am CDT

Building Resilience Through Play
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Description: Our workshop Building Healing and Resilience Through Play demonstrates how play can help 
youth regulate, cope with stress, and build resilience. We teach school staff how to utilize coaching behaviors 
to teach resilience including Encouragement, Fostering a Growth Mindset, Emotion Coaching, and Participant 
Choice. 


Workshop Length: The workshop described below is one hour but can be extended to 90 minutes or 2 hours. 
Additional Topics include: “Understanding Stress, the Brain and Resilience” and “How to Coach Games to 
Build Resilience.”


Guiding Questions: 
How do we build resilience through play? 
How do we reduce stress?
How can school staff create safe and supportive environments that encourage emotional expression and choice through play?


Agenda
Coaching Behavior Focus
15min
Welcome/Game/Overview
Encouragement
5min
Introduction to Resilience

10min
Let’s Play!- Keepy Uppy
Choice, Growth Mindset
10min
Calming Activities and Games
Emotion Coaching
10min
Planning to use Coaching Behaviors: Encouragement, Fostering Growth Mindset, Emotion Coaching
Review and create a plan on 
when to use them. 
5min
Closing and Feedback 



Overview:
Welcome/Game/Overview- We will welcome participants and do an overview of Urban Initiatives and our&n
Speakers
avatar for Andy Neilsen

Andy Neilsen

Lead Director of Learning, Urban Initiatives
Andy is a coach at heart. Beginning his youth development career in Chicago as a nature camp counselor, Andy has worked in affordable housing, after-school programming, and lots and lots of coach training. Excited to be returning to Urban Initiatives after five years working in local... Read More →
avatar for Elyse Tussey

Elyse Tussey

Curriculum Director, Urban Intiatives
Originally from Peoria, Arizona, Elyse attended the University of Arizona and received a BFA in Theatre Education. Before joining UI, Elyse worked as a teaching artist and actor and spent 10 years serving as a Department Head and Theater Teacher for Noble Charter Schools. An actor... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Munthe Room
  Breakout #1
  • global Y

10:15am CDT

Resilient Roots: Culturally Responsive SEL as a Foundation for Student Strength
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
This session explores how culturally responsive SEL practices not only honor student identities but also serve as powerful tools for building resilience. By recognizing the cultural strengths and lived experiences students bring to the classroom, educators can create environments where all learners feel seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Speakers
avatar for Amanda Mathews

Amanda Mathews

5th Grade Teacher, Rockton School District #140
Mathews is a dedicated 5th-grade teacher with nine years of experience in education. Having taught a wide range of grade levels and worked with students from diverse backgrounds, she is passionate about building meaningful relationships and fostering connections.  She thrives on... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Talcott Room B
  Breakout #1
  • global Y

10:15am CDT

The Resilient Youth Program: Prevention is the Best Medicine
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
In this interactive and engaging session, you will learn 10 research-backed resiliency building techniques and tactics to motivate all students to practice them.  You will also be introduced to a prevention-based mental health curriculum, The Resilient Youth Program, and learn ways this program is being integrated into existing educational frameworks here in Illinois.
Speakers
avatar for Tom Klisiewicz

Tom Klisiewicz

Founder and President, Smart Health Wellness and Performance
As the Founder and President of Smart Health Wellness and Performance, Tom Klisiewicz is dedicated to teaching youth and teens practices that build their resilience, strengthen their mental health and help them achieve success in all aspects of their lives. He has been an educator... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Nelson Room
  Breakout #1
  • global Y

10:15am CDT

Understanding the Essential Priority in Addressing Student Behavior Post-COVID
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Post COVID, educator burnout and disruptive student behavior has soared to record highs. It has left fragile educational systems stretched to the max. In this session, audience members will gain a new lens, the Polyvagal Theory, through which to interpret the current state of education. Not only will participants be able to view the current crisis differently, they will begin to understand what needs to be done differently to effectively address the current moment.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Read Daniels

Emily Read Daniels

Founder, HERE this NOW
Daniels is an internationally recognized trauma specialist and trainer in the trauma-informed schools movement and has served thousands through in-person and virtual professional development training, workshops, conferences, webinars, and keynote addresses.Emily is very proud to have... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Ziock Ballroom A

10:15am CDT

Unpacking Anger: Tools for Big Feelings
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Stress and intense emotions like anxiety, anger, and shame weigh on students and staff alike. Plus, many students seem to be lacking the frustration tolerance needed for academic success. While there are no quick fixes for life’s complex challenges, this hands-on workshop will provide an SEL toolbox refill…with a few takeaways for the child inside us all.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Sinarski

Jessica Sinarski

Founder, BraveBrains
Jessica Sinarski, LPCMH is an author, educator, and the founder of BraveBrains. She partners with school districts and child welfare agencies around the world, translating neuroscience into action steps for kids and adults alike. Jessica ignites both passion and know-how in audiences... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Ziock Ballroom B

10:15am CDT

Words that Fuel: Empowering Students through Affirming Interactions
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Words have impact! Harness the power of affirmations to enhance student relationships and classroom morale. In this workshop, learn how intentional affirming interactions can cultivate empathy, build trust, nurture students' strengths, and deepen connections, fostering inclusion and a sense of belonging. Using a healing-centered, strengths-based approach, you’ll master the art of delivering affirmations effectively and guiding students to support one another. Create a more affirming, inclusive, and positive classroom and school culture.
Speakers
avatar for TJ Jordan

TJ Jordan

Owner, Authentic Connections
TJ Jordan, LCPC is a dynamic facilitator, trainer and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has mastered the art of engaging and empowering youth and training the adults who serve them. His innovative approach to youth empowerment is a culmination of over 15 years of direct... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Talcott Room C
  Breakout #1
  • global Y

11:15am CDT

LUNCH! Take a break, or attend a Lunch & Learn Session
Thursday June 12, 2025 11:15am - 12:15pm CDT
TBA
Thursday June 12, 2025 11:15am - 12:15pm CDT
TBA

12:15pm CDT

Building a Connected Campus: A Whole-School Approach to Social-Emotional Learning
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
In this engaging session, you will learn how to design, implement, and adapt a comprehensive school-wide Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) program tailored to meet the unique needs of your school community. We will explore practical programs, proven strategies, and innovative ideas that drive meaningful SEL integration. Attendees will leave with clear, actionable steps and personalized action plans to support SEL success within their schools. Throughout the session, there will be opportunities for interactive Q&A to ensure that your specific questions and challenges are addressed. Join David Lerch, Principal of ROE 45 Safe School, for an informative experience on building and sustaining an impactful SEL initiative. 
Speakers
avatar for David Lerch

David Lerch

Safe School Director & Educational Programs Coordinator, ROE 45 - Red Brick Safe School
David Lerch has been teaching for 17 years. He graduated with his bachelor’s degree from Illinois College in 2007, his master’s degree from SIUE in 2010 and his EDS in Principalship from SIUE in 2023.  He’s taught a variety of grades from 5th grade to 8th grade. He has also... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Talcott Room C

12:15pm CDT

Cultivating Conditions for Regulation and Connection in Schools
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Felt safety is a relatively new term in education. It contrasts with concepts of school safety that are focused on securing the school environment or reducing violent incidents and physical harm. These valid school safety efforts (i.e. active shooter drills, fire drills, metal detectors, resource officers, locked doors, bullet-proof glass, etc) remind us that danger is ever-lurking. In this conference session, participants learn and experience the concept of felt–safety — a regulated state in the body. They gain an embodied understanding of how this ventral vagal state supports sequential brain development and prosocial behaviors in the classroom (adult and student).
Speakers
avatar for Emily Read Daniels

Emily Read Daniels

Founder, HERE this NOW
Daniels is an internationally recognized trauma specialist and trainer in the trauma-informed schools movement and has served thousands through in-person and virtual professional development training, workshops, conferences, webinars, and keynote addresses.Emily is very proud to have... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Ziock Ballroom A

12:15pm CDT

From Vision to Vibe: Promoting SEL-ebration Schoolwide
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Twice a year, Sycamore Middle School collaboratively implements a school-wide day focused on SEL.  We call this, our SEL-ebration Day.  This is a day we put action behind the culture we intend to collecively create with emphasis on positive relationships, mindful community, and joy of learning.  The video below will give you a good sense of what we set out to accomplish with one of these SEL-ebrations days:


Introducing the SMS SEL-ebration Day


Our hope is to share the vision and value behind this day as well as provide the tools you might need to start planning a day like this for your school too!
Speakers
avatar for Justin Hames

Justin Hames

Assistant Principal, Sycamore Middle School, District 427
Hames started his career in education in 2010 as a science teacher at Sycamore Middle School. He has served as the Science Department Chair since 2014. He is also a member and co-leader of the Guiding Professional Learning Community (PLC) Coalition at SMS where he assisted the team... Read More →
avatar for Katherine Katz

Katherine Katz

Art Teacher, Sycamore Middle School, District 427
Katz teaches art education to students grades 6-12 as well as serving as director of the district art show and sponsor the high school art club.  She has fifteen years of experience working with a wide range of children from pre-school through high school. Every day is a new opportunity... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Tadie

Jessica Tadie

ELA Teacher, Sycamore Middle School, District 427
Tadie is currently a teacher at Sycamore Middle School.
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Munthe Room
  Breakout #2
  • global Y

12:15pm CDT

It Starts With: Thoughts + Feelings = Actions ...A recipe for school-wide compassion
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT


While the climate, culture, and well-being of a school is the responsibility of everyone in the building, sometimes we center only the needs of students and forget the needs of the adults.  This workshop focuses on introducing CBT/Collective Wellbeing Framework and the associated assessment and toolkit.  Participants will learn the CBT/ Collective Wellbeing framework and be guided through assessing their own school, analyzing the data, and determining next steps so they can leave with a professional learning experience tailored to the specific needs of their school community.
Speakers
avatar for Devon LaRosa

Devon LaRosa

Chief of High Schools, Chicago Public Schools
Devon supports high school leaders to ensure that all students receive a world-class education.  He believes in taking a student-centered approach to education that focuses on equity and rigorous academic experiences.
avatar for Carla Tantillo Philibert

Carla Tantillo Philibert

CEO, Mindful Practices
Carla Tantillo Philibert, is the author of Cooling Down Your Classroom (2012), and the Everyday SEL series (Routledge, 2016 & 2017). Carla has a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction, is a certified yoga teacher and is a founding teacher and curriculum director of a high... Read More →
avatar for Kierra Pickens

Kierra Pickens

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Key Points Counseling
Dr. Kierra Pickens is a counseling private practice owner and international psychologist with over a decade of experience working in the mental health field. Dr. Pickens has a professional  background in community mental health, inpatient and residential psychiatric facility mental... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Nelson Room
  Breakout #2
  • global Y

12:15pm CDT

My Cruising Altitude
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
In order to Celebrate Resillence, we must understand that success is born of challenges.       Every day we wake and with pure will, push against the constant weight of gravity to rise  above.  We defy odds with persistence and meet the turbulent ascent of our being with an    expectation of grace and contentment.  Wherever that journey may take us, we strive to find the best of ourselves and maintain a life in balance…our cruising altitude.
Speakers
avatar for Heidy LaFleur

Heidy LaFleur

Founder, CEO, Heidy with a Why, Inc.
Heidy LaFleur is a vibrant and common sense leader with an explosive passion for helping people understand trauma, the life-changing impact of true leadership & the critical importance of social emotional learning. She is a forever teacher, former school principal and most importantly... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Ziock Ballroom B
  Breakout #2
  • global Y

12:15pm CDT

The Benefits of Being a Trauma Informed School and Why It's Important. A Principal's Story
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
During the breakout session Jeff will share Stanton School's story of being a targeted school due to chronic absenteeism to earning a commendable status in just one year.  This year, with Jeff at the helm, Stanton School received its second consecutive commendable rating because of the committed work he and his staff did and continue to do as a trauma informed school. Jeff will share how his staff, including the bus drivers, became certified trauma informed specialists, how to improve daily rountines and practices by being resilience focused, and how changing the mindset from punitive to "Opportunities to Be Better" have impacted the student's behavior and social emotional growth.  Stanton School's growth is validated by the data through significant improvements in student behaviors and daily attendance. 
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Sefcik

Jeff Sefcik

Principal, Fox Lake Grade School District 114 - Stanton School
Thirty-three years ago, Jeff began his career as a high school teacher and baseball coach at Driscoll Catholic High School in Addison, Illinois. During his ten years at Driscoll, he taught History and coached Varsity Baseball earning an impressive career record of 251 wins and 102... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Talcott Room A
  Breakout #2
  • global Y

12:15pm CDT

Unlocking Potential: Empowering Educators to Support Students Impacted by Trauma
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Who holds the key to ensuring our students reach their fullest potential? YOU are the key! This presentation aims to provide educators of all levels with an understanding of what trauma really means, how it may present within our students,  its effects on the brain, and how this knowledge can shift our mindsets as educators in supporting our students. The goal is to equip educators with tools to foster supportive, safe, connected and empathetic learning environments that nurture the social, emotional, and academic development of all students, especially those affected by trauma. It takes just one genuine connection to change the trajectory of someone's life.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Nauman

Sarah Nauman

School Counselor, Dorothy Simon Elementary: Winnebago School District
Sarah Nauman, MSEd, LCPC, PEL is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and an ISCA 2024 School Counselor of the Year Honoree that has spent over a decade in the field of counseling including roles within clinical and mental health counseling and school counseling.  She is currently... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 12:15pm - 1:15pm CDT
Talcott Room B
  Breakout #2
  • global Y

1:30pm CDT

Building Bridges: Connecting with Students Amid Trauma and Resilience
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Students who have experienced trauma often navigate the world with a heightened sense of caution, making it challenging for educators to build trust and connection. Yet, strong relationships are the foundation of healing and resilience. In this interactive breakout session, participants will explore practical strategies to foster meaningful relationships with students who may be guarded, skeptical, or struggling to trust adults.
Through real student insights—such as the powerful advice to "stay consistent, hear me out, and care about my well-being as a whole student"—we will unpack what it truly means to show up for students in ways that feel safe and supportive. Attendees will engage in discussions, scenario-based activities, and reflection exercises to better understand how consistency, active listening, and holistic care can transform interactions with students facing adversity.



Speakers
avatar for Jason Smith

Jason Smith

Owner/Facilitator/Trainer, RestoreTogether
Jason Smith is currently the Dean of Students at Dundee-Crown High School in Carpentersville, IL. He started his journey at Dundee-Crown in August 2015 and is still enjoying his tenure as Dean of Students. Jason is charged with shaping the collective climate and culture of the school... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Talcott Room A

1:30pm CDT

Creating Your Own Happiness in Education
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Teaching is rewarding but also demanding. Together, we will explore practical strategies to create internal happiness, set healthy boundaries, and maintain a positive mindset. Learn how to harness gratitude, manage stress, and reclaim your energy to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Let’s shift from surviving to thriving—because happy educators create happy classrooms!
Speakers
avatar for Mae Scott

Mae Scott

Instructional Coach, ROE 45
Mae Scott is an innovative instructional coach and passionate educator with over 20 years of experience in teaching and professional development. She has dedicated her career to empowering educators with practical strategies that integrate technology and social-emotional learning... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Talcott Room B

1:30pm CDT

From Eye Rolls to Aha Moments: Helping Staff Rethink Student Behavior
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Harness the power of brain science to transform learning and behavior in your school! Join Your Amazing Brain author Jessica Sinarski as she breaks down complex concepts into engaging, classroom-friendly strategies. Walk away energized, equipped, and ready to make neuroscience a powerful—and playful—part of your daily work.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Sinarski

Jessica Sinarski

Founder, BraveBrains
Jessica Sinarski, LPCMH is an author, educator, and the founder of BraveBrains. She partners with school districts and child welfare agencies around the world, translating neuroscience into action steps for kids and adults alike. Jessica ignites both passion and know-how in audiences... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Ziock Ballroom A

1:30pm CDT

Practical Strategies for Building Resilience in Students
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
This presentation will explore practical practices and activities designed to foster resilience in students.   Participants will learn how to implement co-regulation strategies that gradually scaffold toward self-regulation, empowering students to manage emotions and challenges with confidence.   The session will also highlight restorative conversations for conflict resolution and accountability, along with rounding to build connections and support student well-being.  Attendees will leave with practical tools and techniques that can be immediately integrated into their school spaces to support student growth and resilience.
Speakers
avatar for Faith McNamee

Faith McNamee

Summit Academy-Assistant Director of School Improvement, ROE #4
After spending 3 years teaching special education at the elementary level and 7 years as a middle school teacher in an alternative school serving students with significant emotional needs, McNamee jumped on board at Summit Academy this year in an admin role. This new adventure began... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Talcott Room C

1:30pm CDT

Start Strong to Stay Strong!
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
"Start Strong to Stay Strong!" is a session designed to equip educators with the tools and strategies necessary to establish a conducive learning environment right from the beginning of each school day. The program emphasizes the implementation of rituals and routines aimed at fostering a sense of safety, belonging, community, and self-efficacy among students. By incorporating elements such as personalized greetings, purposeful partnering, community building activities, dedicated family time, and goal setting exercises, educators will learn how to create a nurturing atmosphere that sets the stage for successful learning experiences.

Participants will explore the significance of each component of the "Strong Start" framework and discover practical techniques for seamlessly integrating them into their daily routines. By prioritizing relationship-building and social-emotional development, educators will not only enhance student engagement but also cultivate a classroom culture where every individual feels valued and supported.

Moreover, "Strong Start" recognizes the crucial role of a positive classroom climate in optimizing tier one instruction. By laying the groundwork for a cohesive learning community, educators can facilitate more effective teaching and learning experiences, ultimately leading to improved academic outcomes for all students.

Join us in "Start Strong to Stay Strong!" and embark on a journey towards creating a classroom environment where students thrive, relationships flourish, and learning happens from the very first bell.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Hand

Elizabeth Hand

Instructional Coach, Rockford Public School District #205
Hand is currently the instructional coach at McIntosh Elementary School in Rockford Public Schools.  This is her 3rd year at McIntosh and her 8th year as a coach.  Prior to coaching, she taught middle school English/Language Arts for 23 years.
avatar for Erin Salberg

Erin Salberg

Principal, Rockford Public School District #205
Salberg is currently the principal at McIntosh Elementary School in Rockford Public Schools.  This is her 4th year at McIntosh.  Prior to that she was principal of Nashold Early Childhood Center for 5 years.  She was an elementary school teacher before becoming a principal.
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Ziock Ballroom B
  Breakout #3
  • global Y

1:30pm CDT

Teaching with Heart: Harnessing Emotional Intelligence for Classroom Success
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
In today’s classrooms, emotional intelligence (EQ) is just as essential as academic knowledge.   We, as teachers, have to understand our 
own emotional intelligence and then leverage that in our classroom community.  This engaging and interactive session will 
explore how educators can harness the power of emotional intelligence to build stronger relationships, manage stress, and create a more 
supportive learning environment. Participants will gain practical strategies to enhance self-awareness, regulate emotions, and foster 
meaningful connections with students and colleagues. 
Speakers
avatar for Linsey McDanel

Linsey McDanel

Kindergarten Teacher, FSD 145
McDanel has been a kindergarten teacher for 21 years. She has a special education and elementary education license. Her and her husband have 5 children, 3 of which have been adopted through foster care. It was through their needs and our inadequacies that McDanel and her husband found... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Munthe Room
  Breakout #3
  • global Y

1:30pm CDT

Thrive & Adapt: Executive Function Strategies for Overcoming Challenges
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
This session is led by the executive function experts of The Goalden System. As former educators Krissy and Kate are aware of the demands of overcoming obstacles and incorporate their understanding into this mindset-shifting presentation. Experience an interactive session and learn about what executive function skills are, how they help us thrive, and how improving these skills can support a more resilient community. Executive function skills are life-long foundational skills that can help empower individuals and improve overall well-being. By incorporating executive function skill development into community support structures, school districts and community agencies can become more aware of their own needs, identify resources and develop a toolbox of strategies that build confidence and resiliency.
Speakers
avatar for Krissy Metzler

Krissy Metzler

Co-Founder & Coach The Goalden System, The Goalden System
Krissy Metzler (M.A. Special Education), co-founder of The Goalden System, is a Chicagoland native who served as a high school English and writing teacher prior to becoming an executive function coach. Throughout her journey in the classroom, embedding executive function skills was... Read More →
avatar for Kate Wade

Kate Wade

Co-Founder & Coach The Goalden System, The Goalden System
With a background in educating students throughout the country, Kate Wade (M.Ed. Education Psychology) has honed her ability to communicate educational principles and support individuals in advancing their executive function abilities. Kate and Krissy Metzler (M.A. Special Education... Read More →
Thursday June 12, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm CDT
Nelson Room
  Breakout #3
  • global Y

2:45pm CDT

ENDNOTE: Laugh, Learn, and Lead On: Overcoming Burnout with Resilience
Thursday June 12, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm CDT
Speakers
avatar for Carla Tantillo Philibert

Carla Tantillo Philibert

CEO, Mindful Practices
Carla Tantillo Philibert, is the author of Cooling Down Your Classroom (2012), and the Everyday SEL series (Routledge, 2016 & 2017). Carla has a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction, is a certified yoga teacher and is a founding teacher and curriculum director of a high... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Wamser

Ryan Wamser

SEL Hub Grant Director, ROE #40
School administrator currently directing SEL grant programs in southwestern Illinois. Love helping connect educators with relevant professional development as well as coordinating and presenting SEL/Ed leadership topics.
Thursday June 12, 2025 2:45pm - 3:45pm CDT
Ziock Ballroom
 
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