ENGAGE 2025 Professional Learning Conference: Full Schedule

Lunch Options or Bring Lunch for Game Show theme Party happening in the Student Union!

8:30am CDT

Camp Canvas! Fundamentals and Getting Started

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

Navigating a new learning platform like Canvas might seem like exploring uncharted territory, but fear not - with the guidance of our seasoned counselors, you'll be blazing trails in no time! Feeling lost with Pages, Quizzes, and Assignments? We'll cover all that and s'more! You'll head home a happy camper, with a detailed trail map and a pack full of engaging ideas.

Presenters

Rene Egle

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Instructional Technologist

Melissa Griffith

Teacher Support Specialist, Northwest ISD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-110 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

8:30am CDT

Ticket to Ride the Reading Express Train

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-109

Do you want to get your students excited about reading? In this session 3 Northwest ISD librarians will share how they implemented whole campus reading programs at the elementary and middle school levels. Participants will leave with ideas on how to get students excited about reading and ideas for creating a culture of readers on their campus.

Presenters

Sarah Jones

Librarian, Justin ES / Northwest ISD

Katherine Evetts

Chisholm Trail MS Librarian, Northwest ISD

Jamie Eikenberry

Secondary Librarian, Northwest ISD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-109 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA ELA
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Literacy

8:30am CDT

Enhancing Special Education with AI: Tools, Strategies, and Best Practices

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-112

This session explores how AI can be leveraged to support special education by creating accessible and accommodated materials, assisting with IEP writing, and enhancing overall student success. Participants will discover practical tools, learn best practices, and gain insights into integrating AI to improve efficiency and effectiveness in meeting diverse student needs.

Presenters

Elizabeth Elliott-Norman

Northwest ISD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-112 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Planning Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA Special Education
Audience Secondary
TOPIC Differentiation

8:30am CDT

Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) - July 22

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-133

Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach school staff, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge or is in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.

Presenters

Katie Beer

Jamie Farber

Director of Counseling, Northwest ISD

Ryan Laney

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-133 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL | Professional Practices & Responsibilities, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Behavior

10:15am CDT

Level Up Your Canvas Course!

Tuesday July 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-110

Are you ready to power up your Canvas course? Join us on an epic quest where we'll equip you with powerful tools to explore the secret levels and hidden gems of Canvas. Dive into powerful external tools to integrate your favorite tech resources without ever leaving Canvas. Activate Mastery Paths to raise your differentiation ranking, and challenge your students with varying assignment and quiz question types. Achievement unlocked! From magical messaging options that make parent contact easy, to cheat codes that give you Canvas superpowers, we've got it all! So grab your controller (a.k.a. fully charged laptop) and let's get started!

Presenters

Kristy Butler

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Amber Robinson

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Melissa Griffith

Teacher Support Specialist, Northwest ISD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS AC-110 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

10:15am CDT

Mindset Matters for Success: Helping Students Help Themselves to Succeed

Tuesday July 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-208

Our fantastic, elastic brains were designed to help us learn. We can empower our students to overcome challenging life situations by teaching them how to bounce back and fall forward. A student's ability to tolerate tension determines their growth potential. Learn how we can help our kids become strong, self-aware, and unstoppable students.
(5th-12th grades)

Presenters

Shannon Anderson

Author, Brain Coach, Professor, Motivational Speaker, www.shannonisteaching.com

Shannon Anderson has taught for 25 years, from first grade through college level. She also served as the gifted coordinator for her school district and on the board of directors for the Indiana State Literacy Association. A highlight of her teaching career was being named one of the... Read More →

Tuesday July 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS AC-208 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience Secondary
TOPIC GT Update

10:15am CDT

Effective teacher strategies vs. Interventions vs. Accommodations vs. Modifications

Tuesday July 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-139

Too often we use these words interchangeably, but in reality these four words are very different. In this session, educators will learn how these supports are different and who can have access to each.

Presenters

Jennifer Bailey

MTSS Coordinator, Northwest ISD

Jennifer Bailey, M.Ed is Northwest ISD’s MTSS Coordinator. Jennifer began her career 25 years ago as a special education teacher. Since then, she has taught general education, English as a Second Language, targeted intervention for reading and math, and supported title one schools... Read More →

Lilia Vasquez

504/At-Risk Coordinator

Tuesday July 22, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS AC-139 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Planning Instruction Learning Environment Professional Practices & Responsibilities

CONTENT AREA All Contents, Special Education, MTSS
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Support Services

1:00pm CDT

B is for Belonging: How to Create Positive, Inclusive Classrooms

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-208

Creating a sense of belonging starts with building strong, meaningful foundations through connection. When kids feel accepted as they form their identities, there are positive mental health effects. When kids feel like they don't belong, they feel isolated, less capable, and unworthy of various opportunities. In this session, many ideas will be shared to create a classroom atmosphere where kids see themselves reflected and respected.
(K-5th grades)

Presenters

Shannon Anderson

Author, Brain Coach, Professor, Motivational Speaker, www.shannonisteaching.com

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-208 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience Elementary
TOPIC GT Update

1:00pm CDT

Increasing Engagement in Your Reading and Listening Center

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-107

Partnering with your librarian
How to create a functional listening center
Creating a welcoming space
Creating activities to go with a theme/read aloud for story retell

Presenters

Lauren Cary

Pre-K Teacher

Stacey Kromer

Sped Teacher, OA Peterson Elementary

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-107 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment Professional Practices & Responsibilities

CONTENT AREA PreK
Audience Elementary

1:00pm CDT

Ready- Set- Grow MAP Growth can be used to measure if all students are growing throughout the year. (Elementary)

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-141

MAP Growth is a universal screener that measures what 2nd-5th know and what they’re ready to learn next through targeted skills and TEKS. In this session, you will learn how to pull reports from MAP and set goals.
Report: Student Profile and Goal setting

Presenters

Jennifer Gill

MTSS Interventionist

Tina Marshall

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-141 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Planning Instruction Learning Environment Professional Practices & Responsibilities

CONTENT AREA ELA, Math
Audience Elementary
TOPIC Data

1:00pm CDT

Manage Student Chromebooks at the Speed of Light with Lightspeed Classroom

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-204

Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, all NISD teachers will have the ability to manage student Chromebooks with Lightspeed Classroom. This platform empowers teachers to view and control student screens in real-time, limit browsing and close off-task tabs, send messages or links directly to student devices, and monitor AI activity in class. Come to this informational session to learn about the platform, get a preview of what it can do, and ask questions.

Presenters

Jason Sanders

Director of Instructional Technology, Northwest ISD

tinyurl.com/Jason-DIT

Michael Merlan

Cybersecurity Engineer, Northwest ISD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-204 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Professional Practices & Responsibilities Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

1:00pm CDT

Rubric Road: Your Game Plan for Effective Grading

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-103

Just like a well-designed game board, rubrics provide structure, direction, and purpose—helping educators and students alike move confidently toward their goals. This session will equip secondary SOAR teachers with the tools to level up your grading game using rubrics that are transparent, student-centered, and aligned with learning objectives.

Presenters

Elizabeth Elliott-Norman

Northwest ISD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-103 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Planning Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA Special Education
Audience Secondary
TOPIC Differentiation

2:45pm CDT

Bombs, Balms & Bridges: The Power of Words

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-244

A teacher’s words have immeasurable power to make or break students. This session focuses on communicating in ways that empower and include all students, regardless of skin color, background, gender, ability, or disability. We will explore students’ rights to be free from discrimination and harassment at school, and steps school staff should take to ensure those rights are honored.

Presenters

Christie Hobbs

General Counsel, Northwest ISD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-244 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Leadership

2:45pm CDT

Creating Safe & Productive Learning Environments

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-115

A safe and productive learning environment is the foundation for students’ emotional and intellectual development. In this interactive session, participants will explore real-world classroom scenarios that highlight how thoughtful learning environments can foster cultural understanding, emotional safety and well-being, positive peer relationships, and active student engagement. Educators will leave with practical strategies to create inclusive spaces where all learners feel seen, supported, and motivated to thrive.

Presenters

Audra Rowell

Advanced Academics Coordinator, Northwest ISD

Audra has been involved with gifted education for the majority of her career. Having taught 5th GT, she was involved in curriculum writing and professional development. Upon leaving the classroom, she became a GT coordinator for elementary services in Irving for 9 years. For the past... Read More →

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-115 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC GT Update

2:45pm CDT

Talk Nerdy to Me: Boosting Academic Discourse

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-207

This session focuses on the importance of fostering effective academic discourse in the classroom, a key component for enhancing student learning and critical thinking skills. We will explore strategies for creating an environment where students are encouraged to engage in meaningful dialogue, ask thought-provoking questions, and challenge ideas respectfully. Through a combination of theory and practical examples, this session will provide educators with the tools needed to cultivate an inclusive classroom environment that nurtures intellectual curiosity and academic dialogue. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to enhance student participation, deepen understanding, and promote critical engagement with academic content.

Presenters

Megan Walker

Intervention Specialist, Northwest ISD

Heather Stepp

6th/7th Grade Science, Northwest ISD

Valerie Sims

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-207 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA Science
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Assessment

2:45pm CDT

Train Your Brain to Ramp up Resilience

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-208

Help students discover what they were meant to do, set goals, and start taking action steps toward their goals. Participants will learn about our amazing brain and how it can optimize our chances for success. Strategies for conquering fears and doubts will be shared. You will also learn ways to guide students in discovering more about themselves and how to maximize their time and energy with an amazing mindset and set of habits. You may be inspired to go after some of your dreams too!
(K-8th grades)

Presenters

Shannon Anderson

Author, Brain Coach, Professor, Motivational Speaker, www.shannonisteaching.com

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-208 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience Elementary
TOPIC GT Update

2:45pm CDT

Reach All the People with ParentSquare

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-203

Looking to streamline classroom communication and engagement? Look no further than ParentSquare! From coordinating class parties and recruiting volunteers to sending reminders and organizing activities, ParentSquare makes it easy. It syncs with calendars, sends automatic reminders, and keeps families connected to the classroom. We’ll explore the Studio Editor to create eye-catching newsletters, use group codes for targeted communication, and learn how to share classroom photos to give parents a peek into daily learning moments. Join us to unlock ParentSquare’s full potential as your all-in-one communication hub!

Presenters

Kelli Sanders

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Rayna Strader

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-203 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment Professional Practices & Responsibilities

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

8:30am CDT

Behaviors Beckon: Your Behavior Bestie is Here to Help!

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-102

Discover the two most common approaches to behavior management and explore a fresh, transformative philosophy that you can start using in your classroom today! Gain practical strategies for setting meaningful behavior goals with your students and see firsthand how it shifts their mindset—and yours—for lasting success.

Presenters

Sandra Dougherty

Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-102

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Behavior

8:30am CDT

Power Struggles in View: Practical Tips for a Peaceful Crew

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-110

Power struggles with students can quickly derail learning and create unnecessary stress for both educators and learners. In this engaging session, we’ll explore common power struggles that arise in the classroom—such as defiance, refusal to follow directions, and attention-seeking behaviors. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, participants will gain practical, research-backed strategies to de-escalate conflicts, set clear boundaries, and foster a positive classroom environment. Walk away with proactive techniques to build respect, maintain authority without confrontation, and keep your classroom running smoothly—no tug-of-war required!

Presenters

Stephanie McDonald

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-110 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Behavior

8:30am CDT

Read. Talk. Swap.

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-103

Join us for a fun and relaxing time to talk books and swap for a new read to close out your summer break. Pleasure reading books of all genres are welcome.

Presenters

Sara Erikson

Secondary Teacher Support Specialist, NISD Curriculum & Instruction

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-103 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Data

8:30am CDT

Reach All the People with ParentSquare

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-203

Presenters

Kelli Sanders

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Rayna Strader

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-203 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment Professional Practices & Responsibilities

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

8:30am CDT

Stop Treating Chat GPT Like Google. Do This Instead.

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-137

ChatGPT is more than just a search engine—it's a dynamic tool that can enhance lesson planning, differentiate instruction, and support student learning in powerful ways. In this session, teachers will explore strategies for using AI effectively, moving beyond simple searches to leveraging ChatGPT for content creation, feedback, and critical thinking activities. Walk away with practical applications and time-saving techniques to make AI work for you in the classroom!

Presenters

Darsi Bickley

K-12 Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator, Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-137 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Planning Instruction Learning Environment Professional Practices & Responsibilities

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

8:30am CDT

Edugence Assessments Unlocked: Assign, Secure, and Solve

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-118

Ready to level up your Edugence skills—together? With students now testing online, it’s game time for you and your teammates to conquer the platform! In this co-op session, we’ll show you how to assign assessments like a pro, activate the lockdown browser or unassigned absent students for secure play, and understand online proctoring. You'll also pick up quick fixes and insider tips to defeat common lockdown triggers and troubleshoot challenges like a true team. Join forces, share strategies, and walk away ready to win the Edugence game.

Presenters

Amanda Piper-McClure

Instructional Resource & Technology Manager, Northwest Independent School District

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-118 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Planning Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Edugence

8:30am CDT

Manage Student Chromebooks at the Speed of Light with Lightspeed Classroom

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-204

Presenters

Jason Sanders

Director of Instructional Technology, Northwest ISD

tinyurl.com/Jason-DIT

Michael Merlan

Cybersecurity Engineer, Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-204 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Professional Practices & Responsibilities Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

8:30am CDT

Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) - July 23

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-133

Presenters

Katie Beer

Ryan Laney

Cooper Spruill

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-133 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL | Professional Practices & Responsibilities, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Behavior

10:15am CDT

✨OUR Favorite Things ✨

Wednesday July 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-204

Chrome Extensions, Keyboard Shortcuts, and Hacks, OH MY! We are SO excited to share our FAVORITE THINGS with you! This is a session you will not want to miss! Whether you are Admin, Office Staff, Teachers, or someone who uses a computer daily, this session is. for. you. Come learn about all the ways to make your life easier with all these magical tricks. We promise, you will not be disappointed!

Presenters

Kristy Butler

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Jordana Kaiser

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS AC-204 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

10:15am CDT

Emergent Tree Feedback Board and Classroom Set Up

Wednesday July 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-105

This presentation has been designed to clarify the details of using feedback boards and classroom set up through Emergent Tree.

Presenters

C. Shanea Branch

Behavior Intervention Specialist, Northwest ISD

Lisa Mankoff

Shannon Gibson

Wednesday July 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS AC-105 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, YES

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Behavior

10:15am CDT

Collaborative Consult Toolkit

Wednesday July 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-139

No power tools required, but we will help you equip yourself with cross-curricular tools and strategies to serve any student in any class without being a content expert. Open to all Special Ed and Gen Ed teachers who provide CC support.

Presenters

Elizabeth Elliott-Norman

Northwest ISD

Sara Erikson

Secondary Teacher Support Specialist, NISD Curriculum & Instruction

Wednesday July 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS AC-139 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Planning Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents, Special Education
Audience All Levels

10:15am CDT

Level Up Student Writing For All

Wednesday July 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-137

Wanna level up you're reading and writing strategies for all learners? This session explores innovative reading and writing strategies designed to engage diverse learning styles and needs across all content areas. Participants will discover practical techniques to support all learners through differentiated instruction, with a focus on research-backed approaches that foster comprehension, creativity, and critical thinking for all students.

Presenters

Jacob Lilly

8th Grade US History, Northwest ISD

Lauren Smith

Wednesday July 23, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS AC-137 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Planning Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience Secondary
TOPIC Content Literacy

1:00pm CDT

At the Movies: Queen of Katwe

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-201

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.

Presenters

Audra Rowell

Advanced Academics Coordinator, Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-201 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC GT Update

1:00pm CDT

Canvas Course Creation Camp

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-113

Join us for a dedicated work session where you can focus on building, refining, and organizing your Canvas courses. This professional development session provides structured time, support, and resources to help you enhance course content, streamline navigation, and incorporate best practices for online learning. Collaborate with colleagues, ask questions, and leave with a more polished and effective Canvas course ready for your students!

Presenters

Rene Egle

Instructional Technologist, Northwest ISD

Instructional Technologist

Melissa Griffith

Teacher Support Specialist, Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-113 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

1:00pm CDT

What do middle school GTs love to do?

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-102

we will facilitate a conversation about what GTs are super excited about in Middle school, what works and what doesn't. not content specific, just great practices that they love.

Presenters

Ashley Dacus

Baylie Salazar

Beca Perryman

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-102

Learning Environment, YES

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience Secondary
TOPIC Differentiation, GT Update

1:00pm CDT

Teach Smarter, Not Harder!

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:00pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-137

Want to reduce daily stress, minimize repetitive tasks, and create a more student-centered learning environment? This session will explore practical strategies for streamlining classroom management and instruction using a combination of student-led responsibilities, AI tools, and digital automation. Learn how to implement effective student jobs that empower learners while improving classroom flow, integrate AI tools to enhance lesson planning and feedback, and leverage digital solutions like Securly Pass Kiosk and Canvas templates to simplify administrative tasks. Walk away with actionable strategies to boost efficiency, reclaim valuable teaching time, and create a more engaging and organized classroom experience for both you and your students. Time will included to incorporate teacher creation of the automations.

Presenters

Samantha Norton

Crystal Righton

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:00pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-137 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience Secondary

2:45pm CDT

Book Clubbing: Game on

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-139

Imagine book clubs where students aren't just reading, but truly engaging with texts, with each other, and with ideas that transform their understanding. In this interactive session, we'll dive deep into the art of fostering rich, meaningful conversations that go beyond surface-level comprehension.

Presenters

Martha Yosko

Instructional Coach- ELA 2-5, Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-139 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA ELA
Audience Elementary
TOPIC Instructional Strategies

2:45pm CDT

DAEP: All The Things!

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-114

A session for any secondary staff who want to know more about what we do at DAEP. We are a support campus and our mission is to teach in all aspects. We will discuss our routines and procedures of course. But more importantly, we will discuss how we try to have our classrooms mirror those of the home campus, through restorative practices, our behavior framework, and through alignment with the district scope and sequence.

Presenters

Diana Foster

Principal, Northwest ISD

Rhett King

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-114 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience Secondary
TOPIC Leadership

2:45pm CDT

The Relationship Recipe: Ingredients for Positive Connections

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-110

Attendees will collaborate and learn how to embrace the importance of strong teacher-student bonds and how they contribute to a positive learning environment inside their classrooms. Besides a short roundtable discussion, a brainstorming session will help teachers find all the right ingredients to promote positive engagement with their students. Of course there will cute handouts and snacks!

Presenters

Jess Croshaw

CTE Teacher: Photography and Yearbook, Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-110 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Content
Audience Secondary
TOPIC Behavior

2:45pm CDT

Anchor Charts in Action: Tools for Thinking and Learning

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-133

Anchor charts are powerful tools that make thinking visible and help students retain key concepts. In this hands-on session, teachers will explore best practices for creating effective anchor charts and then have dedicated time to design charts they can immediately use in their classrooms. Walk away with ready-to-use resources that support student learning and engagement!

Presenters

Kendra Langston

Social Studies Teacher; Collegiate Academy and Early College High School Facilitator, Northwest ISD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-133 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Planning Instruction Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Content Literacy

2:45pm CDT

Intentional Planning for Student discourse: Academic and Social Language

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT

BNHS AC-101

Literacy development includes oral language development. In this session, you will learn instructional strategies to promote student discourse.

Presenters

Kayla Caprio

RTI/ ESL Interventionist

Wednesday July 23, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm CDT
BNHS AC-101

Planning Instruction Learning Environment Professional Practices & Responsibilities

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Instructional Strategies

8:30am CDT

At the Movies: Big Hero Six

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-201

Presenters

Audra Rowell

Advanced Academics Coordinator, Northwest ISD

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-201 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC GT Update

8:30am CDT

It's All Debatable

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-101

How to Engage Students With Debate Topics on Any Level

Presenters

Brian Bloss

6th Grade World Cultures

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-101

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA ELA, Social Studies
Audience Secondary
TOPIC Differentiation

8:30am CDT

What You Need To Know About That App Your Kid Uses

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-110

The internet can be a scary place as an adult with children, but it doesn't have to be! Be informed and make decisions with your kids together as a digitally responsible family. This session will cover some of the more dangerous cell phone applications available to young people, talk about steps you can take as a parent to protect your children, and provide many resources to continue learning at home. Come learn about that app your kid uses, and what you can do about it.
tinyurl.com/AppsToKnow

Presenters

Jason Sanders

Director of Instructional Technology, Northwest ISD

tinyurl.com/Jason-DIT

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-110 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Technology

8:30am CDT

High-Leverage Classroom Management Strategies

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT

BNHS AC-108

Practical classroom management strategies & mindsets that boost student motivation to follow classroom expectations. Delve into the difference between a skill gap and a performance gap in regards to student behavior. Experience a tried and true Conflict Resolution strategy that empowers students to solve their own problems with their peers.

Presenters

Sarah Waterman

Northwest ISD

Patrice Brake

Elementary Teacher Support Specialist, Northwest ISD Curriculum & Instruction

Teacher Support Specialist for Northwest ISD; serving new teachers to NISD.

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am CDT
BNHS AC-108 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Professional Practices & Responsibilities Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience Elementary
TOPIC Behavior

8:30am CDT

Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) - July 24

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 2:30pm CDT

BNHS AC-133

Presenters

Katie Beer

Susie Boelens

Amani Pereira

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 2:30pm CDT
BNHS AC-133 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL | Professional Practices & Responsibilities, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Behavior

10:15am CDT

Art to Soothe the Soul

Thursday July 24, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS ART-102

Neurographic art is "Art for the non-artist". We will practice meditation and deepen mindfulness while creating a drawing with ink and watercolors. This art therapy lesson is a cross curricular fusion of art, science, and psychology.

Presenters

Adriane Lovern

HS Art, Northwest ISD

Thursday July 24, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS ART-102 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment, SEL

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Differentiation

10:15am CDT

From Chaos to Curiosity: Engaging Activities for Indoor Recess

Thursday July 24, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-107

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!

Presenters

Caitlin Andrews

GT Specialist, Northwest ISD

Caitlin Andrews is a GT Specialist in Northwest ISD with over 14 years of experience in providing gifted services in both self-contained and pull-out classrooms. She is advocate for twice-exceptional students, a passion that has only grown since her own son was identified as dyslexic... Read More →

Lindsey Hart

G/T Specialist, Northwest ISD

Lindsey Hart is a GT Specialist in Northwest ISD with over 16 years of experience in providing gifted services in both classroom and pull-out settings. She advocates tirelessly for twice-exceptional students, and works closely with teachers and other specialists to develop curriculum... Read More →

Catherine Baker

GT Specialist, Northwest ISD

Cathy Baker is a GT Specialist and advocate for gifted students in Northwest ISD.

Thursday July 24, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS AC-107 2775 Bobcat Blvd, Trophy Club, TX 76262, USA

Learning Environment

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience Elementary
TOPIC Instructional Strategies, GT Update

10:15am CDT

Learning the Gen-Alphabet

Thursday July 24, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-101

Learn phrases and topics commonly used by students to better understand student conversations, make connections, build relationships, and become the "cool teacher".

Presenters

Marleigh Stone

Thursday July 24, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT
BNHS AC-101

Learning Environment, YES

CONTENT AREA All Contents
Audience All Levels
TOPIC Differentiation

10:15am CDT

Unlock the Power of the Enneagram: A Journey of Self-Awareness and Growth

Thursday July 24, 2025 10:15am - 11:45am CDT

BNHS AC-110

Discover the universal relevance of the Enneagram in this transformative session designed for individuals across all roles and industries. Whether you're new to the tool or looking to deepen your understanding, you'll explore the nine personality types and dive into the core motivations, fears, and desires that drive human behavior. Learn how these inner patterns influence relationships, decision-making, and team dynamics. Through reflection and practical application, you'll gain insights to enhance personal growth, strengthen connections, and elevate your professional effectiveness. Join us and begin your journey toward greater self-awareness and lasting transformation.

Presenters