ENGAGE 2025 Professional Learning Conference

Building Thinking Classrooms by Peter Liljedahl is a research-based teaching framework designed to foster deep thinking, collaboration, and engagement in students. It shifts traditional, passive learning to an active, inquiry-based approach where students work together to solve problems. By using vertical non-permanent surfaces (like whiteboards) and randomized groupings, it increases student participation and encourages critical thinking. This strategy transforms boring lessons into interactive experiences, getting kids up and moving while promoting discussion, problem-solving, and deeper understanding. Applicable to all content areas, Building Thinking Classrooms provides educators with practical strategies to create dynamic, student-centered learning environments.

Join us for an engaging session on disciplinary literacy and the power of writing across all subjects!

Together, we'll explore what disciplinary literacy looks like in practice, align with district expectations, and hear directly from students about their experiences. We'll also celebrate the great work already happening in our classrooms and discover new ways to deepen student engagement through questioning and writing opportunities using Depth & Complexity icons.

This session is designed for educators across all grade levels and content areas—everyone is welcome! Let’s learn, collaborate, and grow together. We can’t wait to see you there!

These session will explore gifted learners through popular culture. Teachers will watch one of the movie options on their own, complete a short task, and then come together to discuss giftedness through the lens of Hollywood. Visit the GT Update site for directions.

When the weather keeps students inside, recess can quickly turn from a break to a battleground. This session will equip you with creative, purposeful activities that transform indoor recess from chaotic energy to focused curiosity. Discover engaging games, hands-on challenges, and movement-based strategies that foster social-emotional growth, teamwork, and critical thinking — all while giving students the brain break they need. Walk away with ready-to-use ideas that will keep kids active, engaged, and eager for their next indoor adventure!