ELevate 2025: Full Schedule

8:00am CDT

QSSSA and the Importance of Oracy in All Classrooms

Tuesday June 3, 2025 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Explore the power of the Question, Signal, Stem, Share, Assess routine (QSSSA) to spark meaningful academic conversations in all classrooms. Dive into why structured interactions are essential for student engagement and how this simple, flexible strategy can create more language-rich, interactive learning environments. Gain fresh insights and inspiration to help every student find their voice.

Speakers

Sally Barnes

Seidlitz Education

Isaac Marquez

Education Consultant, Seidlitz Education

Isaac Márquez is a consultant and content developer with Seidlitz Education with expertise in teaching emergent bilingual students. As a seasoned educator with a global background, Isaac offers a distinctive perspective shaped by his diverse experiences. As a bilingual instructional... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Keynote Fort Zumwalt West High School

School/Company Seidlitz Education

9:00am CDT

A Mastery-Based Approach to Supporting Newcomers

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 101

Newcomers are an incredibly diverse set of students who have a variety of characteristics, life goals and prior experiences with schooling. A mastery-based approach takes each individual student from where they are to where they need to be. Explore the detailed steps necessary to grow academically and linguistically within the zone of proximal development.

Speakers

Ryan Rumpf

Principal Consultant, Global Educators

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Global Educators

9:00am CDT

Culturally Responsive Class Discussions

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 102

Let's talk about the unspoken rules of speaking. If you are discouraged by disproportionate participation in class discussions and wondering how to engage your culturally and linguistically diverse students, this session is for you. Explore scholarly research on classroom talk and cultural ground rules of communication. Paricipate in hands-on activities related to creating culturally responsive tools for launching and assessing class discussions.

Speakers

Karissa Sywulka Mitchell

Director of STL Teaching Fellows, Saint Louis University

Karissa Sywulka Mitchell directs the STL Teaching Fellows at Saint Louis University, a Master of Arts in Teaching pathway that includes alternative teaching certification. Karissa has over a decade of K-12 teaching experience as a teacher in Social Science and Instrumental Music... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience Content Teachers
School/Company Saint Louis University

9:00am CDT

How to Embed ML Communication Practices in Daily School Operations

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 103

More and more schools are feeling an increasing demand on multilingual family communication systems. Despite the best of intentions, families are often excluded from important information and school relationships, students miss out on critical services, and districts are left legally vulnerable due to gaps in multilingual communication systems and culture. Explore the most common myths and pitfalls schools encounter, as well as how to fix it. Addressing multilingual communication can lead to greater inclusivity, better well-being and academic outcomes for kids, and higher staff morale.

Speakers

Anne Turan

Consultant (former EL Coordinator, former Assistant Principal, former classroom teacher), Together Language

Teacher and leader in literacy and language acquisition (bilingual, Spanish immersion, ESL); founder of "Together, Language", offering workshops, team training, and an accelerator program to help schools achieve federal compliance and stronger school cultures for inclusivity and equity... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Together Language

9:00am CDT

Supporting Multilingual Learners through a Multitiered System of Supports

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 104

Explore how educators can implement a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to meet the diverse needs of MLs. Learn how to integrate academic, behavioral and social-emotional supports within a tiered framework to promote language development and equitable learning opportunities. Explore effective strategies for core instruction (Tier 1), targeted interventions (Tier 2) and intensive supports (Tier 3), with a focus on culturally responsive practices and progress monitoring. Gain practical tools to enhance ML success in any educational setting.

Speakers

Genise Henry

Other, UT Austin Meadows Center

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 104 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company University of Texas at Austin - Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk

9:00am CDT

Nurturing Real Family Connections

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 123

Creating collaborative relationships with caregivers is essential for the success of all students. Family engagement goes beyond school walls and looks different for every family. By embracing and honoring the varied ways caregivers support literacy, teachers and administrators can create a positive school culture where students and families thrive. Come prepared to exchange dreams, ideas, thoughts and suggestions for building and maintaining caregiver relationships within our communities.

Speakers

Daisy Skelly

EL Educator, Parkway C-2

Tuesday June 3, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Student & Family Support

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Parkway School District

10:30am CDT

Purposeful Sentences: Supporting Expressive Language and Meaning-Making

Tuesday June 3, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Room 102

Move beyond isolated grammar lessons and into purposeful, content-rich language development. Discover how sentence frames and scaffolded sentence-level activities can support MLs in building grammatical complexity while engaging in meaningful academic expression. Gain strategies for connecting grammar, vocabulary and meaning through both speaking and writing int the context of learning.

Speakers

Rob Greenhaw

MELL Instructional Consultant, Education Plus

Rob serves EdPlus members by providing consultation to schools that are working to implement high-quality, comprehensive and collaborative educational programs for English Learners. Rob also conducts professional development workshops that focus on providing practical strategies to... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

10:30am CDT

Teaching Science to MLs

Tuesday June 3, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Room 101

Discover practical strategies for teaching the language of science. Explore how targeted language-learning techniques can boost content mastery and academic language skills. Through structured conversations and meaningful vocabulary use, learn how to empower every student to succeed in the science classroom.

Speakers

Isaac Marquez

Education Consultant, Seidlitz Education

Tuesday June 3, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

School/Company Seidlitz Education

10:30am CDT

Teaching Social Studies to MLs

Tuesday June 3, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Room 123

Explore innovative ways to make social studies accessible and meaningful for MLs at all proficiency levels. Through hands-on examples and interactive strategies, learn how to engage and support MLs while accelerating language acquisition and maximizing content mastery. Gain a bank of ideas to transform your social studies classroom into a content and language-rich environment.

Speakers

Sally Barnes

Seidlitz Education

Tuesday June 3, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

School/Company Seidlitz Education

10:30am CDT

Supporting the Mental Well-Being of ML

Tuesday June 3, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Room 103

Drawing fron the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) framework of the eight dimensions of well-being, delve into strategies and practices to support the holistic mental health of MLs and the staff who support the learners.

Speakers

John Converse

Director of Restorative Practices, EducationPlus

John Converse is a restorative practitioner who brings 19 years of educational experience to life in his interactions with others. He has a set of skills that foster belonging and connection through the art of restorative practices. He is a certified trainer with the International... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company EducationPlus

11:30am CDT

Lunch & Vendor | Non-Profit Visits

Tuesday June 3, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm CDT

Commons

Grab lunch and visit our vendors and non-profits.

Tuesday June 3, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm CDT
Commons Fort Zumwalt West High School

12:30pm CDT

Creating Accessible Learning Experiences with Seesaw

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 102

Every child deserves to learn at high levels. Explore tools that make learning accessible and fun for all. Gain actionable strategies for inclusive teaching.

Speakers

Anna McGuire

Instructional Coach, Mehlville R-IX

Instructional Innovation + Data Privacy Specialist at Mehlville School District. I previously taught second grade for 9 years. In my current role, I enjoy empowering teachers to empower their students to create with technology. Come learn how AI can enhance instructional planning... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Mehlville School District

12:30pm CDT

Empowering Newcomers: Yes, They Can! Boosting Engagement for Success

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 101

Explore practical strategies, tools and resources to help newcomer MLs access content, engage meaningfully and thrive in the classroom. From scaffolding techniques and visual supports to technology tools and community connections, gain ready-to-use ideas that foster confidence and success for newcomers. Whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach or administrator, this session will equip you with actionable steps to ensure that all students feel empowered to learn.

Speakers

Angelica Mitchell

EL Educator, Ritenour

I've worked with multilingual students for the entirety of my teaching career. Now in my 26th year of teaching, I continue to learn and grow as a professional. My students have helped shape and equip me in beautiful ways. It is my honor and delight to serve this beautiful populat... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company International Welcome Center- Ritenour School District

12:30pm CDT

Teaching Science to MLs

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 123

Speakers

Isaac Marquez

Education Consultant, Seidlitz Education

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

School/Company Seidlitz Education

12:30pm CDT

Utilizing School-based PD Teams to Support MLs

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 104

Explore a school-based professional development program designed to promote dialogue and outcomes for MLs. The program starts with a self-assessment tool to help teachers evaluate their current practices, followed by ten self-paced modules. These modules focus on essential topics related to equity and best practices for supporting MLs. Review success stories from Missouri schools that have completed the program and receive access to the TEAMS USA course website, a downloadable workbook and a facilitator’s guide to support your learning experience.

Speakers

Heather LeCureux

TESOL facilitator, practicum supervisor, Missouri State University

The Show Me Multiliteracy project disseminates best practices to school teams and develops educators' capacity to support emerging multilingual students' literacy development in both English and their home languages.

Nikki Stockdell

Fort Zumwalt School District

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 104 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Missouri State University

12:30pm CDT

Best Practices for Educators Who Work with Interpreters

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 103

Explore the process when attending interpreted meetings with bilingual parents and what to expect from an interpreter. Discover the "rules" for interpreted meetings and what to expect from an interpreter. Learn strategies to develop school staff as interpreters and use external agencies to increase parent satisfaction with school meetings.

Speakers

Rita Brusca-Vega

Other, NAETISL

NAETISL advocates for emergent bilingual students, families, school districts, school administrators, teachers, educational translators and interpreters of spoken languages and other community stakeholders, by striving to enhance the quality of translation and interpretation through... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Student & Family Support

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company National Association of Educational Translators and Interpreters of Spoken Languages

1:30pm CDT

How Long Should it Take for my ML Students to Learn English?

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 102

Ever wonder how long it should take your MLs to become proficient in English? Focusing on second language acquisition, delve into the progression of language learning from initial exposure to proficiency. Through activities and interactive discussions, experience and deepen your understanding of the characteristics and challenges associated with each stage, as well as an awareness of strategies that effectively support MLs at various points along their language acquisition journey.

Speakers

Reah Morabith

MELL Instructional Specialist, Heart of MO RPDC

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience Content Teachers
School/Company Heart of Missouri RPDC

1:30pm CDT

Teaching Social Studies to MLs

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 123

Speakers

Sally Barnes

Seidlitz Education

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

School/Company Seidlitz Education

1:30pm CDT

The Power of Video: Reaching Newcomers with AI-Generated Voiceovers

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 101

Review a blended instructional routine using video and AI to reach newcomer students. Explore the tools and strategies necessary to provide access to grade level content to newcomers from many language backgrounds.

Speakers

Ryan Rumpf

Principal Consultant, Global Educators

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Global Educators

1:30pm CDT

Understanding the Language of Identity and Access

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 104

Delve into key insights from Corwin’s new publication, Language of Identity, Language of Access. Explore the value of translanguaging over code-switching and examine the complexity of the English language, shaped by both Latin and Germanic roots. Discover the benefits of emphasizing function-driven language in the classroom and gain practical strategies to support students in developing their language skills at the word, sentence and discourse levels—empowering them to navigate the language of access with confidence.

Speakers

Diana Hsu

EL Educator, Ladue

Jennifer Riesenmy

District Leader, Ladue

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 104 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Ladue School District

1:30pm CDT

Words in Action: Collaborative Writing with Multilingual Learners

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 103

Explore how to practice and model language in a way that is relevant and meaningful for students. Collaborative writing utilizes all four domains: listening, speaking, reading and writing. This instructional method incorporates vocabulary by theme and models conventions of English for all students.

Speakers

Sylvia Steiner

EL Educator, Ritenour School District

Tuesday June 3, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Ritenour School District

2:30pm CDT

Operationalizing Access and Belonging: Strategies to Build Inclusive ML Organizations

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 102

Educational leaders play a critical role in ensuring that all students and families—especially MLs and those with communication-related disabilities—can meaningfully engage with their schools. Explore how to embed language and communication access into core organizational operations through inclusive systems, policies and practices. Grounded in federal requirements and equity-centered frameworks, examine strategies to assess current practices, identify operational gaps and build sustainable, responsive structures. Discover tools and guidance to strengthen language and communication access at the school or district level. Gain actionable steps to align organizational practices with the needs of multilingual and disabled communities.

Speakers

Manar Swaby

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

2:30pm CDT

Streamlining ML Systems: Efficient Paperwork on a Budget

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 123

This session focuses on managing EL documentation efficiently. Learn about creating and maintaining ILPs, ELD consult forms, releveling processes and master caseload management. Tools for sharing data with schools and general education teachers will be introduced, ensuring streamlined communication and compliance. Gain a better understanding of EL paperwork systems and effective use of digital tools for sharing information.

Speakers

Sheri Lawson

EL Educator, Hazelwood

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

School & Community Resources

Audience EL Specialists
School/Company Hazelwood School District

2:30pm CDT

From Idea to the Airwaves: Starting Your Own Podcast for ML Students & Families

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 101

Podcasts are an innovative way to connect with MLs and their families, providing accessible content that informs, educates and builds community. Learn how to take a podcast from idea to launch, exploring simple tools and strategies to create engaging audio content. Discover how to plan, record and distribute a podcast tailored to your school community, ensuring linguistic and cultural inclusivity. No prior experience is needed, just a desire to amplify voices and strengthen connections through storytelling and technology. Please bring your own device to this session.

Speakers

Jonathon Lee

Educational Consultant, EducationPlus

Jonathon is a Google Certified Trainer currently working with EducationPlus as a member of both METC & the RPDC. Jonathon provides training all over the state on how to integrate technology tools into instruction. Jonathon has presented at METC, Innovation Institute of Springdale... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Student & Family Support

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company EducationPlus

2:30pm CDT

Influencers vs. Community: MLs and the Pull of the Digital Age

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 104

Explore social media's impact on MLs. Inspired by The Anxious Generation, analyze excerpts and collaboratively develop support strategies. Gain practical strategies to support the well-being of MLs in this digital age. No prior reading needed.

Speakers

Erin Lawson

EducationPlus

Erin serves EdPlus member districts by developing tailored learning opportunities and professional development programs. Erin has 20 years of education experience in a variety of roles including 6th-grade teacher, district technology coach and Director of Professional and Program... Read More →

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 104 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Student & Family Support

Audience Content Teachers, EL Specialists

2:30pm CDT

Preparing for the ACCESS Test All Year

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 103

Explore practical ways to prepare students for the annual ACCESS test throughout the school year, beginning with goal setting in August. Tips and tools will be shared for monitoring growth in all 4 domains. These could be used with individual students, small groups or even the whole class (if in a co-teaching environment). Many of the skills needed to take the ACCESS test are applicable to all tests and helping students feel confident in their test-taking abilities can boost proficiency scores.

Speakers

Rob Greenhaw

MELL Instructional Consultant, Education Plus

Daisy Skelly

EL Educator, Parkway C-2

Tuesday June 3, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Summative and Formative Assessment

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Parkway School District

8:00am CDT

The Journey to Belonging

Wednesday June 4, 2025 8:00am - 8:50am CDT

Keynote

Across the U.S. and around the world, people leave their homelands in pursuit of a better life. What happens when they arrive? Explore the complex realities of social mobility, tracing the journeys of new immigrants and the challenges they face in navigating the American education system. Through vivid storytelling, examine how school communities serve as both gateways and barriers, and what must change to ensure every student has a fair chance to succeed.

Speakers

Jo Napolitano

Wednesday June 4, 2025 8:00am - 8:50am CDT
Keynote Fort Zumwalt West High School

9:00am CDT

A Comprehensive Approach to SPED Referrals for MLs

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 104

When MLs struggle academically, it is difficult to decipher the root cause. Explore the stages of language acquisition, culture’s impact on how we teach and learn, DESE resources and ways to form a collaborative multidisciplinary team to ensure MLs’ unique needs are considered.

Speakers

Rhonda Hittenberger Ortiz

Instructional Coach, Missouri State University

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 104 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Missouri State University Agency for Teaching, Leading, and Learning

9:00am CDT

Mission: Word Possible: Crack the Code of Academic Language

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 103

Be a part of a mission that’s anything but impossible! Explore engaging, research-based strategies to unlock the power of academic vocabulary for both MLs and general education students. Gain hands-on activities and practical tips to enhance vocabulary instruction and engage students in mastering academic language.

Speakers

Kimm O'Connor

EducationPlus

Mariah Cunningham

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience Content Teachers, EL Specialists

9:00am CDT

Supporting MLs Supports All: Instructional Strategies in Science

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 102

Science often feels like its own specialized language, so how do we support MLs to make sense of science while also learning English? Experience the instructional planning and strategies that support not only ML students, but ALL students! Although we will engage in a mySci K-8 lesson, the strategies experienced can be applied to any science instructional materials.

Speakers

Heather Milo

Science Instructional Specialist, Washington University in St. Louis / Institute for School Partnership (ISP)

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience Content Teachers
School/Company Washington University in St. Louis / Institute for School Partnership (ISP)

9:00am CDT

"Translators" Watch Party: The Burden and Brilliance of Language Brokering

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 123

Watch the short documentary "Translators" and reflect on the powerful—though often unfair—roles many ML students take on as family interpreters. The film reveals the deep responsibility our MLs often carry and how, through navigating adult spaces, they develop leadership, advocacy and strengths that too often go unrecognized in schools. What does it mean for a child to translate the adult world, and how can we, as educators, recognize both the cost and the capacity in that experience?

Speakers

Rob Greenhaw

MELL Instructional Consultant, Education Plus

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Student & Family Support

Audience Content Teachers, EL Specialists

9:00am CDT

Enhancing Tier 1 Instruction Through ML Data Insights

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT

Room 101

Engage in a design sprint to explore how multilingual data analysis can drive stronger Tier 1 classroom instruction—beyond identifying students for interventions. Discover strategies that move educators beyond simply completing data templates and instead empower them to analyze language-rich insights that support MLs equitably. Learn how to structure and facilitate data meetings that ensure Tier 1 instruction is responsive, inclusive and designed to meet the diverse linguistic needs of all students.

Speakers

Sonya Murray-Darden

MLDS Specialist, EducationPlus

Dr. Kristen Taylor

Wednesday June 4, 2025 9:00am - 10:20am CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Summative and Formative Assessment

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company MLDS Specialist

10:30am CDT

Building Confidence and Community with Math Games from Around the World

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Room 102

Position the MLs in your classroom for success! Experience how strategy games from around the world develops critical thinking skills and community within the classroom.

Speakers

Julie Antill

MELL Instructional Specialist, SEMO RPDC

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience Content Teachers, EL Specialists

10:30am CDT

Leading Effective and Equitable English Language Development (ELD) Instruction

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Room 104

Discover the knowledge and tools needed to lead effective and equitable English Language Development (ELD) instruction for MLs of English. The information provided will be based on OELA’s 5 Evidence-Based Instructional Practices for English Learners. Through the examination of a model ELD lesson, practical approaches for differentiating instruction across various proficiency levels will be provided. Additionally, an equity-focused checklist will be shared to enhance the ability to observe and support ELD practices. School leaders will leave with actionable insights to ensure compliance while fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Speakers

Dr. Laura Grayson

Literacy Consultant

Benchmark Education Company provides students and teachers with the resources they need to become problem-solvers, decision-makers and joyful learners. Our mission is for every student to find lifelong inspiration, growth and success through literacy, language and knowledge devel... Read More →

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Room 104 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Benchmark Education Company

10:30am CDT

Flip the Script

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Room 101

Struggling to engage with colleagues? This interactive session equips educators of MLs with practical strategies to build stronger relationships and navigate professional challenges. Through hands-on activities—like role-playing and group discussions—you’ll explore both proactive approaches to prevent pushback and reactive techniques to resolve conflicts effectively. Expect real talk, actionable insights and collaborative problem-solving that will enable you to engage in productive teamwork. Gain fresh strategies to create a more supportive and cooperative teaching environment!

Speakers

Mary Hendricks-Harris

Leadership and Improvement Specialist, EducationPlus

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

Audience EL Specialists
School/Company Education Plus

10:30am CDT

When Schools' Dedication to Newcomers Transcends Their Legal Obligation

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Room 123

Some school districts are finding ways to support older newcomers even when they have no legal obligation to do so. In California, where general education students over 17 have limited enrollment protections, the cash-strapped Oakland Unified School District has prioritized these learners. On the other hand, another school district has reinstated barriers that cut a student's education short. What can we learn from these two contrasting approaches? Explore the critical gap between policy and practice to uncover strategies that ensure every newcomer has access to learning, regardless of age.

Speakers

Jo Napolitano

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

10:30am CDT

Collaboration, Counseling and Culture

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT

Room 103

Explore how to collaborate across counseling, social work and classroom settings to meet the needs of our MLs with high trauma. Explore research, and gain resources and strategies to help students feel safe and included in their new school.

Speakers

Suzanne Marsh

EL Educator, St. Charles R-VI

Suzy Marsh has been teaching English Language Development in SCSD at Jefferson Intermediate since 2016. Suzy has focused on creating rhythms of inclusive communication to allow for more participation of minority families. Outside of school, Suzy is the Director of We Love St. Charles... Read More →

Kelly Millian

Wednesday June 4, 2025 10:30am - 11:20am CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Student & Family Support

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company City of St. Charles School District

11:30am CDT

Lunch & Vendor | Non-Profit Visits

Wednesday June 4, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm CDT

Commons

Grab lunch and visit our vendors and non-profits.

Wednesday June 4, 2025 11:30am - 12:20pm CDT
Commons Fort Zumwalt West High School

12:30pm CDT

A Comprehensive Approach to SPED Referrals for MLs

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 104

Speakers

Rhonda Hittenberger Ortiz

Instructional Coach, Missouri State University

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 104 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Missouri State University Agency for Teaching, Leading, and Learning

12:30pm CDT

Using AI to Accommodate Multilingual speakers

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 103

Learn and test a variety of AI tools that can be used to modify and scaffold content materials for MLs at different levels of language proficiency on their literacy and proficiency-building journeys. Discover how to create modified assignments in different content areas for MLs at various levels along with teaching techniques that can assist MLs in content classrooms.

Speakers

Viktoriia Kisil

EL Educator, Cape Girardeau 63

This presentation will focus on introducing the ways of using AI as a tool in teaching multilingual learners on different levels of language proficiency. The presenter will introduce and demonstrate how AI can be used to modify and scaffold content materials for English Language Learners... Read More →

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Cape Girardeau Public School District

12:30pm CDT

When Schools' Dedication to Newcomers Transcends Their Legal Obligation

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 123

Speakers

Jo Napolitano

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

12:30pm CDT

Promoting Multiliteracy: Exploring Successful Projects and Funding Opportunities

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 102

Discover projects implemented by educators in Missouri that promote multiliteracy within their classrooms and schools, with the aim of developing their own goals in this area. Explore relevant examples with an opportunity to reflect on these practices and brainstorm ideas that could be effectively adapted to your own educational contexts. Potential funding sources to support the implementation of these initiatives will be shared.

Speakers

Heather LeCureux

TESOL facilitator, practicum supervisor, Missouri State University

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Student & Family Support

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Missouri State University

12:30pm CDT

ML Assessment: Formative to Summative

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT

Room 101

Explore effective assessment strategies for MLs, from daily formative checks to summative evaluations. Learn to scaffold assessments, analyze student data and use tools like WIDA Can Do Descriptors, Quizizz and Padlet. Gain strategies to track language growth and support ML success.

Speakers

Karuna Dwivedi

ELL Specialist, Riverview Gardens School District

Wednesday June 4, 2025 12:30pm - 1:20pm CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Summative and Formative Assessment

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Riverview Gardens School District

1:30pm CDT

Early Literacy Strategies for SLIFE and Newcomer Students

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 101

Many of our newcomers and SLIFE students do not have literacy skills or they may be lacking in their first language. This means that when they come to the U.S., they are unable to transfer reading skills to English. When we have these students, we have to start at ground zero with literacy instruction. Particularly with older students, this can be a challenge because materials and tasks are usually based around very young students. Learn how to adapt and adjust these activities for all students, including older ones.

Speakers

Lonni Long

EL Educator, Troy R-III

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists
School/Company Troy Middle School/Lincoln County R-iii School District

1:30pm CDT

Empowering MLs through Easy Classroom Strategies

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 103

Explore engaging, multimodal resources available on the Discovery Education Experience platform, designed specifically to motivate and support multilingual language learners. Unlock practical, high-level strategies aimed at enhancing oral language development, fostering academic vocabulary growth and incorporating scaffolded writing opportunities. Discover intentional instructional techniques that empower educators to create a dynamic learning environment, ensuring every language learner thrives in their speaking, reading and writing. Don’t miss this chance to enrich your tool kit with effective strategies that make a difference.

Speakers

Marissa Geyer

Partnerships Manager, Discovery Education

Discovery Education nurtures curiosity in every classroom by providing comprehensive learning experiences, high-quality educational content and resources, and best-in-class support and community. Our award-winning engaging, easy-to-use, and effective teaching and learning solutions... Read More →

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Discovery Education

1:30pm CDT

Diversity Awareness in Action with Students

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 102

FZiAM is a district-wide program that was created to acknowledge, educate and celebrate our differences. Our district has a mission to grow and develop social and global awareness, moral responsibility, cultural proficiency and promotion of acceptance among students and staff. Our fundamental keys to success are awareness, connection and engagement.

Speakers

Julie Jamieson

Mary Shive

EL Educator, Ft. Zumwalt R-II

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Fort Zumwalt

1:30pm CDT

Empowering Multilingual Learners to Thrive in the School Setting - The Administrator's Role

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 104

Venture into the role of the school administrator and learn how to empower your MLs to become successful students both at school and at home. Explore best practices and practical applications in this interactive session to provide stronger support for your students and their families.

Speakers

Ted Huff

EducationPlus

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 104 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

Audience Content Teachers, EL Specialists

1:30pm CDT

EL and Special Education: Navigating Dual Services

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT

Room 123

Serving students who qualify for both EL and Special Education services requires thoughtful coordination and informed decision-making. Explore the intersection of these two programs, learn effective pre-referral strategies and gain tools for monitoring progress and supporting dually identified students. Examine best practices for exit criteria and procedures to ensure services remain responsive and appropriate.

Speakers

Stacey Kastner

EL Educator, Francis Howell R-III

Wednesday June 4, 2025 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Student & Family Support

Audience Content Teachers, EL Specialists

2:30pm CDT

The Go To Strategies: Your “Go To” For Meeting MLs’ Learning Needs

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 102

Do you find yourself spending time searching for research-based strategies to meet the various needs of your MLs? The GO TO Strategies document from Project EXCELL contains over 75 research-based strategies addressing all four language domains specifically for instructing MLs. Strategies are embedded throughout the session for participants to experience while they explore the document and understand how it is organized. This session is recommended for ESOL and content teachers working with MLs in grades K-12. Educators will be invited to include the Go To Strategies in a future lesson during hands-on planning time.

Speakers

Elizabeth Trapp

EL Educator, St. Louis City

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 102 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers

2:30pm CDT

Opening the Door to Young Multilingual Scientists

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 104

Explore how important elementary science is in developing literacy, engagement and language for MLs. Discover how the Missouri Learning Standards and WIDA Key Language Uses work together to create multilingual scientists. Join the fun as we experience science in action!

Speakers

Julie Antill

MELL Instructional Specialist, SEMO RPDC

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 104 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Instructional Practices for English Learners

Audience Content Teachers, EL Specialists

2:30pm CDT

Keeping Secondary MLs Engaged: Strategies for Confidence and Progress

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 103

Explore strategies for building MLs’ self-confidence and keeping them engaged in their learning. Topics will include setting realistic goals, encouraging participation, valuing diverse accents, incorporating interactive games, fostering curiosity about students' backgrounds and motivating learners to take risks. Discover how educators can model language acquisition and support students in developing key motivation and self-monitoring skills.

Speakers

Maysoon Shiaa

EL Educator, Ritenour

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 103 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

Audience EL Specialists
School/Company Ritenour School District

2:30pm CDT

Lead to Help All Succeed

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 101

Learn how school leaders can foster a culture where all students—especially MLs—feel welcomed, valued and supported. Explore how relationship-building, student-centered leadership, and a deep understanding of family and community contexts can transform a school’s approach to MLs. Reflect on how your leadership practices can shape inclusive policies and daily decision-making that uplift every learner.

Speakers

Caroline Koetting

Building Leader, St. Frances Cabrini Academy 2

Margaret Karl

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 101 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Leadership & School Culture

Audience Content Teachers, EL Specialists

2:30pm CDT

Spanish Kickstarter Workshop

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT

Room 123

Prepare educators in all roles with practical Spanish that would be most relevant for building relationships with Spanish-speaking students and families in the school setting.

Speakers

Anne Turan

Consultant (former EL Coordinator, former Assistant Principal, former classroom teacher), Together Language

Wednesday June 4, 2025 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Room 123 Fort Zumwalt West High School

Student & Family Support

Audience EL Specialists, Content Teachers
School/Company Together Language

3:30pm CDT

Afternoon Snack & Prize Giveaway

Wednesday June 4, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm CDT

Commons

Wednesday June 4, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm CDT
Commons Fort Zumwalt West High School