Jessica’s journey and experience as an inquiry educator fuel her passion and global work in coaching both teachers and leaders in their roles across a variety of rich contexts. She understands the power of curiosity and how we can leverage it to guide next steps, creating the space... Read More →
Megan Milmine, a high school English teacher, shares how she transforM.Ed. her classroom culture by intentionally embedding collaboration to foster empathy among students. Grounded in the belief that meaningful academic growth is deeply connected to social-emotional development, Megan drew from Thrivers, Building Thinking Classrooms, Kagan Cooperative Learning, and The Strategic Teacher to create a learning environment where students not only worked together—but grew together. While her work took place in a high school setting, the strategies and outcomes are adaptable across all grade levels and content areas. This session will leave you with ideas and inspiration to foster empathy through collaboration can shift not just how students learn—but how they relate to one another and the world around them.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Phoenix Union High School District
Megan Milmine is a high school ELA teacher in the Phoenix Union High School District. During her 20th year in education, she returned to the classroom after spending the last eight years as an instructional coach, teacher mentor, and professional development specialist. Her hope as... Read More →
As busy educators, finding time to read books that stretch our practice can be difficult, and choosing just one can seem even harder. Each year, the Teacher Solutions Team explores motivating educational works to apply and enhance our teacher leadership. In this session, participants will get a glimpse into the team's learning and take “bite” out of “Understanding How We Learn” by Jude Weinstein Jones and Megan Sumeracki. The discussion will highlight basics of human cognitive processes and strategies for effective learning.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Madison School District
Hannah has been an Arizona educator for 13 years. She currently works for Madison School District in central Phoenix. She has previously taught grades 1-3, been a reading interventionist, and is currently a data analyst. She works with all things assessment, improvement systems, and... Read More →
Do you ever wish you had a personal assistant? Someone you could bounce ideas off of, someone who could proofread your work, someone who could do a bit of research for you and then report back? What about someone who could do monotonous work for you so that you have time for more interesting tasks? In this introductory session, we will explore how generative AI (artificial intelligence) tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot can fill that role and be used to help boost your thinking and productivity. Bring your laptop as you’ll get hands-on practice using a chatbot, discover effective communication strategies to harness its potential as a thought partner, and gain valuable insights to apply to your own professional practice. Note: We will not be discussing student use of AI in this session.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Paradise Valley Unified District
Hannah Carnahan is a National Board Certified teacher. She has served the Paradise Valley Unified School District for 18 years, transitioning from teaching middle and high school math to her current role as a Technology Integration Facilitator. She is dedicated to empowering educators... Read More →
Discover how to turn everyday phenomena into powerful science lessons that spark curiosity and critical thinking. In this hands-on session, you’ll explore the Ambitious Science Teaching framework and learn how to design lessons that are both engaging and equitable. Bring a laptop and a science lesson you've used recently—we'll work together to add in engaging elements. You'll leave with practical strategies and clear next steps to make science instruction more meaningful for all learners.
Every teacher is a leader—whether in the classroom, among colleagues, or within the broader school community. This session celebrates the leadership you already demonstrate daily and offers practical strategies to build on your strengths. Through reflection, discussion, and collaborative activities, we’ll explore how to recognize the influence you have, amplify your impact, and foster positive change from wherever you stand. Whether you're leading students, mentoring peers, or shaping school culture, this session will leave you feeling empowered, appreciated, and equipped to continue leading from your current role and realize that everyone is a leader who can make a difference.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Lake Havasu Unified School District
With over 30 years of experience in education, Cathy Bailey-Bagby has dedicated her career to nurturing young learners and supporting early childhood education. She began her journey as a kindergarten teacher and preschool coordinator in Parker, Arizona, later continuing to teach... Read More →
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Lake Havasu Unified School District
With 30 years of experience in education, Tania Gray brings a deep passion for teaching and learning to every presentation. She spent 23 years teaching high school English at Lake Havasu High School, where she also served as English Department Chair. Currently, she is in her third... Read More →
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Lake Havasu Unified School District
Courtney Zampogna is a dedicated educator with 13 years of experience teaching both 1st and 3rd grade. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Differentiated Instruction. As a National Board Certified Teacher with a specialization in Literacy, Courtney... Read More →
Struggling to solve a problem? Wish you had a way to break down the barriers standing in your way? Join us for a dynamic and interactive session where we’ll explore Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in action. Through a hands-on simulation, we’ll uncover hidden barriers, collaborate with peers, and develop practical strategies to create more welcoming and effective solutions. Whether you're new to UDL or looking to deepen your understanding, this session will equip you with the tools to approach challenges with a fresh perspective!
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Mesa Public Schools
Jess Pio has been with Mesa Public Schools for 19 years. She has worked as a teacher, a school improvement coach, and now as an Assistant Principal. She has master’s degrees in early childhood education and educational leadership. She is a National Board Certified Teacher. This... Read More →
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Glendale Elementary School District
Tracey Regan has been serving students of all abilities for over 30 years. She has taught in preschool, special education, and as a special education achievement advisor. She holds a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction and is newly certified in educational leadership... Read More →
Ecucators at all levels and in all roles are welcome as we discover how to harness your personal power to influence change in your community and beyond. Through an engaging blend of discussion, self-reflection, and actionable strategies, participants will explore what power means, how to embrace it authentically, and ways to leverage it for impactful advocacy. Whether you're seeking to lead in your classroom, school, or community, this session will leave you energized and ready to make a difference.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Phoenix Union High School District
Since the start of her career, Connie’s work in education has centered on passion and purpose. Grounded in her belief that access, opportunity, and asset-based thinking are essential elements to cultivating strong learning environments, she has shaped her path to learn and grow... Read More →
In this session, you’ll explore how student interests and local connections can spark meaningful, community-driven learning experiences. Together, we’ll break down the key elements of designing a community-engaged learning unit and consider how it can align with your role, content, and learners. You'll map out how this approach could look in your own context and discover ways to stay connected through a collaborative network. As part of the experience, you’ll have the opportunity to join an in-person or online CEL cohort and/or the CommunityShare network to continue growing your practice.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Cartwright School District
Rebecca Brinkman is a fourth-grade teacher in Phoenix, Arizona. She has taught at the same school for her entire 18-year career. Her campus is a second home and it has a strong family feel to it. This is what draws her back every year. She has taught 2nd grade for ten years, 3rd grade... Read More →
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Sahuarita School District
Rebecca Oravec is a middle school math teacher in Sahuarita Unified School District, just south of Tucson, AZ. After seven years of teaching art, she transitioned to mathematics in 2024 and is currently pursuing a second Masters in Education alongside a certification in Special Education... Read More →
Inquiry is teaching practice that is used as a framework for learning in our classrooms, but what happens when leaders use this philosophy as a mindset to lead & inspire their teachers? In this session, we’ll explore the seven dispositions of an inquiry leader, identifying how these attributes empower all learners. By identifying the why and how behind these essential dispositions, we’ll interrogate where these are already within our practice and how we can refine those that aren’t quite so visible. At the end of this session, you’ll walk away with a clearer picture of who you are as a leader and a tangible guide for next steps that honor your own professional practice as well as those you serve.
Jessica’s journey and experience as an inquiry educator fuel her passion and global work in coaching both teachers and leaders in their roles across a variety of rich contexts. She understands the power of curiosity and how we can leverage it to guide next steps, creating the space... Read More →
Explore how student data can do more than track academic progress—it can help foster stronger connections among students. The presenter will share how data was used to identify student needs and design social lunchtime programs that created opportunities for students to build meaningful peer relationships. Attendees will learn about the entire process, from data collection to implementation, along with practical strategies for creating student-centered social spaces. Whether aiming to support students who feel disconnected or enhance the overall school climate, this session offers real-world insights and tools to help educators get started.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Flowing Wells Unified School District
Jaime Camero is a K-6 STEAM teacher and mentor teacher in the Flowing Wells Unified School District in Tucson. She is a National Board Certified Teacher and has been teaching for 21 years. Jaime received her bachelor's degree in elementary education from University of the Southwest... Read More →
As busy educators, finding time to read books that stretch our practice can be difficult, and choosing just one can seem even harder. Each year, the Teacher Solutions Team explores motivating educational works to apply and enhance our teacher leadership. In this session, participants will get a glimpse into the team's learning, take a “bite” out of “Atomic Habits” by James Clear, and leave with direct applications. The discussion will highlight the four laws of habit creation and apply them to their work life and home life.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Madison School District
Hannah has been an Arizona educator for 13 years. She currently works for Madison School District in central Phoenix. She has previously taught grades 1-3, been a reading interventionist, and is currently a data analyst. She works with all things assessment, improvement systems, and... Read More →
Discover how coaching can happen in everyday moments—not just formal meetings—by rethinking what coaching looks like in your role. In this session, teachers, administrators, and teacher leaders will reflect on your current environment, assess your readiness to engage in or offer coaching, and explore where meaningful conversations can take root. Through real scenarios and practical tools, you'll identify ways to support growth in yourself and others. Leave with ideas and strategies to help build a culture of continuous learning, no matter your title.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Phoenix Union High School District
Jennifer (Jennie) Flores is an instructional coach with an emphasis on supporting quantitative literacy for the Phoenix Unified High School District. She received her master’s in education from the University of Arizona and has been teaching high school mathematics and providing... Read More →
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Flowing Wells Unified School District
Jillian Powers is a second-grade teacher in Flowing Wells Unified School District in Tucson. She received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with an emphasis in social studies from Northern Arizona University and her master’s in curriculum and instruction from Western... Read More →
Artificial intelligence is transforming education, offering innovative ways to support both teachers and students. In this interactive session, we’ll explore how MagicSchool.ai can enhance literacy instruction and personalize learning with ease. Discover 5 powerful tools—Decodables, Text Levelers, Vocabulary Lists, Rubric Generator, and UDL Choice Boards—and learn how they can streamline lesson planning, expand student choice, and elevate instruction. Through hands-on practice, you’ll gain practical strategies for integrating AI-driven resources into your daily routine, saving time while maximizing student engagement. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or administrator, this session will equip you with actionable insights to leverage AI effectively for student success. Please bring your own laptop or device for the most interactive experience.
In this session, discover how participating in the Arizona TeacherSolutions Team shaped one teacher’s practice and inspired a commitment to continuous growth. Explore how Professional Inquiry Cycles can lead to powerful shifts in classroom instruction and school-wide impact. Learn how centering student voice not only transforms classroom culture but can also inform meaningful change at the district level.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Lake Havasu Unified School District
With over 30 years of experience in education, Cathy Bailey-Bagby has dedicated her career to nurturing young learners and supporting early childhood education. She began her journey as a kindergarten teacher and preschool coordinator in Parker, Arizona, later continuing to teach... Read More →
As busy educators, finding time to read books that stretch our practice can be difficult, and choosing just one can seem even harder. Each year, the Arizona K12 Center staff explores motivating works to apply and enhance our leadership and collaboration. In this session, participants will get a glimpse into the staff's learning, take a “bite” out of Thanks for the Feedback by Stone and Heen, and leave with direct applications. The discussion will highlight the three types of feedback and navigating feedback in education.
Paula Watkins, NBCT, M.Ed., spent 21 years as a teacher before becoming a program director at the Arizona K12 Center. Her work centers teacher leadership with one goal in mind: to improve the experiences for students across Arizona by supporting and uplifting the voices of teacher... Read More →
Do you ever wish you had a personal assistant? Someone you could bounce ideas off of, someone who could proofread your work, someone who could do a bit of research for you and then report back? What about someone who could do monotonous work for you so that you have time for more interesting tasks? In this introductory session, we will explore how generative AI (artificial intelligence) tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot can fill that role and be used to help boost your thinking and productivity. Bring your laptop as you’ll get hands-on practice using a chatbot, discover effective communication strategies to harness its potential as a thought partner, and gain valuable insights to apply to your own professional practice. Note: We will not be discussing student use of AI in this session.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Paradise Valley Unified District
Hannah Carnahan is a National Board Certified teacher. She has served the Paradise Valley Unified School District for 18 years, transitioning from teaching middle and high school math to her current role as a Technology Integration Facilitator. She is dedicated to empowering educators... Read More →
Discover how to turn everyday phenomena into powerful science lessons that spark curiosity and critical thinking. In this hands-on session, you’ll explore the Ambitious Science Teaching framework and learn how to design lessons that are both engaging and equitable. Bring a laptop and a science lesson you've used recently—we'll work together to add in engaging elements. You'll leave with practical strategies and clear next steps to make science instruction more meaningful for all learners.
This session offers a high-level overview of key federal and state laws—IDEA, the Office for Civil Rights, student discipline, and Title IX—and how they intersect with your role as an educator. Facilitated by a former special education teacher turned top education lawyer, this session invites open conversation, questions, and reflection to help you feel more confident navigating the legal landscape that shapes today’s schools.
Before Hope became a lawyer, she was a special education teacher and school administrator for nearly 20 years in the New York City public schools in self-contained classes, separate special education schools, day treatment programs and hospital schools. Hope earned a B.S. cum laude in... Read More →
How do we curate spaces to cultivate curiosity yet showcase the “messiness of learning? During this session participants learn about harnessing the power of place and our natural spaces to provoke the thinking of our learners. From outdoor learning to the walls that line our hallways and classrooms, we’ll investigate their purpose as the “third teacher”. Additionally, this session lays the groundwork for making and keeping the thinking visible , determining what’s “worthy” of showcasing during our units of inquiry. Far from Pinterest worthy walls and displays, both inquiry leaders and classroom teachers will compare and contrast inquiry schools around the globe, reflecting on the ways Constructivist and our own values are reflected in our spaces.
Jessica’s journey and experience as an inquiry educator fuel her passion and global work in coaching both teachers and leaders in their roles across a variety of rich contexts. She understands the power of curiosity and how we can leverage it to guide next steps, creating the space... Read More →
Get ready to dig into the "why" behind student thinking in math! In this interactive session, you'll explore powerful thinking routines that help students make sense of math concepts—not just memorize them. Try out hands-on strategies, including manipulatives, to uncover common misconceptions and encourage deeper understanding. You'll leave with a small, ready-to-use math task and fresh ideas for building confident, flexible thinkers in your 4th-8th grade classroom.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Flagstaff Unified School District
With 13 years dedicated to elementary education, Kathleen Malkhassian is an enthusiastic advocate for learning, currently working as an Instructional Coach at Thomas Elementary in Flagstaff, Arizona. Holding a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction from WGU, Kathleen's dedication... Read More →
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Fort Huachuca Accommodation Schools
Angel Mayo is a National Board Certified Teacher in Middle Childhood Generalist with a master's in Curriculum and Instruction from WGU. She has taught in Arizona for 10 years and currently teaches 6th grade math at Colonel Smith Middle School on Fort Huachuca, Arizona. Known for her... Read More →
In this interactive session, K-12 educators and administrators will explore practices that honor the backgrounds, experiences, and strengths of all students. You’ll engage with strategies that promote thinking, fairness, connection, and reflection to build stronger classroom communities. You’ll leave with actionable strategies and a personalized plan to create a learning environment where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. No matter your role, you’ll gain insight on how to influence school-wide change with purpose and impact.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Flowing Wells Unified School District
Jaime Camero is a K-6 STEAM teacher and mentor teacher in the Flowing Wells Unified School District in Tucson. She is a National Board Certified Teacher and has been teaching for 21 years. Jaime received her bachelor's degree in elementary education from University of the Southwest... Read More →
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Phoenix Union High School District
Megan Milmine is a high school ELA teacher in the Phoenix Union High School District. During her 20th year in education, she returned to the classroom after spending the last eight years as an instructional coach, teacher mentor, and professional development specialist. Her hope as... Read More →
After this session, you'll confidently navigate even the toughest IEP meetings. Join us for a dynamic, collaborative session where you'll hear directly from opposing counsel representing both students and schools. Learn how to manage the emotions and complexities when an attorney joins an IEP meeting, and deepen your understanding of the laws through the lens of students' and schools' rights and responsibilities. Come for the showdown, stay for the learning!
Before Hope became a lawyer, she was a special education teacher and school administrator for nearly 20 years in the New York City public schools in self-contained classes, separate special education schools, day treatment programs and hospital schools. Hope earned a B.S. cum laude in... Read More →
Heather R. Pierson joined Udall Shumway PLC in 2009. She is a member of the School Law section, representing the firm’s education law clients throughout the State. Ms. Pierson comes to Udall Shumway PLC uniquely qualified in the area of education law. Prior to joining Udall... Read More →
Artificial intelligence is transforming education, offering innovative ways to support both teachers and students. In this interactive session, we’ll explore how MagicSchool.ai can enhance literacy instruction and personalize learning with ease. Discover 5 powerful tools—Decodables, Text Levelers, Vocabulary Lists, Rubric Generator, and UDL Choice Boards—and learn how they can streamline lesson planning, expand student choice, and elevate instruction. Through hands-on practice, you’ll gain practical strategies for integrating AI-driven resources into your daily routine, saving time while maximizing student engagement. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or administrator, this session will equip you with actionable insights to leverage AI effectively for student success. Please bring your own laptop or device for the most interactive experience.
Every teacher is a leader—whether in the classroom, among colleagues, or within the broader school community. This session celebrates the leadership you already demonstrate daily and offers practical strategies to build on your strengths. Through reflection, discussion, and collaborative activities, we’ll explore how to recognize the influence you have, amplify your impact, and foster positive change from wherever you stand. Whether you're leading students, mentoring peers, or shaping school culture, this session will leave you feeling empowered, appreciated, and equipped to continue leading from your current role and realize that everyone is a leader who can make a difference.
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Lake Havasu Unified School District
With over 30 years of experience in education, Cathy Bailey-Bagby has dedicated her career to nurturing young learners and supporting early childhood education. She began her journey as a kindergarten teacher and preschool coordinator in Parker, Arizona, later continuing to teach... Read More →
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Lake Havasu Unified School District
With 30 years of experience in education, Tania Gray brings a deep passion for teaching and learning to every presentation. She spent 23 years teaching high school English at Lake Havasu High School, where she also served as English Department Chair. Currently, she is in her third... Read More →
Arizona TeacherSolutions Team, Lake Havasu Unified School District
Courtney Zampogna is a dedicated educator with 13 years of experience teaching both 1st and 3rd grade. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Education and a Master’s degree in Differentiated Instruction. As a National Board Certified Teacher with a specialization in Literacy, Courtney... Read More →
Over the past decade, Brandon P. Fleming has emerged as one of the most awarded and sought-after educators, entrepreneurs, authors, and speakers worldwide. Fleming’s incredible story of transformation, detailed in his book Miseducated, has gained such national acclaim that it is... Read More →
Wrap up Day 1 by connecting with fellow educators and the brilliant minds behind our keynotes! Join us for a relaxed and energizing networking reception where you’ll have the chance to meet both keynote authors, get your books signed, and engage in meaningful conversations that extend the day’s learning. This is also a great opportunity to connect with your team—use this time to share insights, reflect together, and begin planning how you’ll bring your new learning back to your schools. Light refreshments will be served.
