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HCS Teacher Summit For Grades 6-12
Thursday, August 6
 

8:30am EDT

AIG Leads
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C204
Limited Capacity seats available
AIG Leads ONLY: This session will provide important beginning-of-year updates, expectations, timelines, resources, and procedures to support effective implementation of AIG services at each school. Participants will receive district information, collaborate with colleagues, review responsibilities, and prepare for a successful start to the school year.
Speakers
avatar for Martha Chandler

Martha Chandler

AIG Curriculum Specialist, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Wendy Nash

Wendy Nash

AIG Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C204
  AIG Leads

8:30am EDT

Mandatory Coaches Meeting
FILLING
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
O-Zone
Limited Capacity filling up
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
O-Zone
  Athletic Coaches

8:30am EDT

Policies, Procedures, and Protocols, Oh My: Strategies to Begin the Year Strong
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D206
Limited Capacity seats available


This presentation highlights strategies for establishing strong classroom management through clear policies, procedures, and protocols. It emphasizes building relationships, creating social contracts, defining expectations, assigning classroom roles, and implementing consistent routines to foster accountability, safety, communication, and student success from the start of the school year.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melody Simpson

Dr. Melody Simpson

Assistant Principal, Triton High School
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D206
  Classroom Management

8:30am EDT

Responding with Purpose: Effective Behavior Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D221
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will equip educators with proactive and responsive behavior support strategies to create positive learning environments for all students. Participants will explore the function of behavior, effective intervention techniques, and practical classroom strategies that promote student engagement, self-regulation, and positive behavioral outcomes.
Speakers
CB
KD
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D221
  Classroom Management

8:30am EDT

Start Strong: Building Routines & Procedures That Work
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B206
Limited Capacity seats available
Learn how establishing routines and procedures from day one creates structure, supports positive classroom management, and prevents common behavior challenges. This session will explore practical strategies, real-life classroom scenarios, and proactive measures to help build an organized, productive, and successful learning environment.
Speakers
avatar for Shelby Kana

Shelby Kana

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B206
  Classroom Management

8:30am EDT

The New Teacher's Toolkit: Relationships, Routines, and Results
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C233
Limited Capacity seats available
Master the chaos with proactive strategies tailored for the secondary classroom. This session focuses on building authentic relationships, establishing high-leverage routines, and utilizing de-escalation techniques that preserve student dignity. Leave with a toolkit to create a structured, respectful, and high-achieving learning environment for grades 6-12.
Speakers
GR

Ginean Royal

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C233
  Classroom Management

8:30am EDT

Access for All: Accommodations/Modifications for Diverse Learners
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D215
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will provide educators with practical strategies for implementing effective accommodations and modifications to support diverse learners in the classroom. Participants will explore the differences between accommodations and modifications, review real-world examples, and learn how to increase student access, engagement, and success while maintaining high...
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Speakers
AC

Amanda Curva

EC Coach
AH

April Hood

EC Director, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D215
  Differentiated Instruction

8:30am EDT

Support without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B227
Limited Capacity seats available
Support Without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve explores how scaffolding and chunking can support struggling learners while maintaining high expectations. Participants will learn practical strategies to break down complex tasks, promote independence, and help students access grade-level content without reducing rigor.
Speakers
AW

Alena Williford

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B227
  Differentiated Instruction

8:30am EDT

AI & the Science Geek AND The DOPE Educator Experience (GPT)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D209
Limited Capacity seats available
DOPE Science Geek GPT helps K–12 educators design engaging, standards-aligned science instruction using the DOPE Framework, Building Engineers, and the Scientific Method. Teachers upload materials or lesson ideas to generate low/no-tech investigations, literacy and writing connections, spaced review plans, and purposeful AI-supported reinforcement using platforms like Diffit and Curipod. This...
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Speakers
avatar for Sid Lathan

Sid Lathan

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Throughout my career, I have maintained a consistent objective: to secure educational experiences that bring together strong instruction and technological innovation, particularly within economically restricted areas and communities. This mission reflects my lifelong commitment to... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D209
  Educational Technology

8:30am EDT

Beyond Flashcards: Using AI to make vocabulary stick
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D228
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking for a new way to introduce vocabulary? Learn how to use AI to create personalized stories, reading passages, and activities that help students interact with new vocabulary before instruction even begins. Walk away with ready-to-use prompts and practical strategies that save time while increasing student engagement.
Speakers
CH
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D228
  Educational Technology

8:30am EDT

Blending Traditional and Digital Learning with Wayground as the Hub
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B225
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover how to use Wayground to create rigorous, student-centered learning experiences that blend traditional instruction with digital tools. Explore strategies for differentiation, MTSS support, data-driven decision making, and time-saving workflows that improve student outcomes while making planning, assessment, and intervention more efficient.
Speakers
avatar for Susanna Eaker Hitt

Susanna Eaker Hitt

Teacher
My name is Susanna Hitt. I have been a teacher in Harnett for the last 11 years, and I have 20 years of combined experience in Illinois, Missouri, California, and North Carolina.  I have a BA in Social Science with a minor in Psychology.  I hold a Master's of Educational Leadership... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B225
  Educational Technology

8:30am EDT

Ecosystems Over Islands: Building the Connected Classroom with Google Workspace
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B207
Limited Capacity seats available
What happens when the tools educators already use every day stop functioning like separate apps and start working together as one connected ecosystem? In this engaging Google Workspace-powered session, educators will explore practical strategies for using tools like Google Classroom, Gemini, NotebookLM, Slides, Gmail, and Drive to support teacher productivity, streamline workflows, and create more...
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Speakers
avatar for Christie Cloud

Christie Cloud

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
Christie Cloud is an Instructional Technology Facilitator in Harnett County, North Carolina and an adjunct professor at Thomas University. With 24 years in education, she’s passionate about empowering teachers through authentic and creative technology integration. A GaETC Rising... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B207
  Educational Technology

8:30am EDT

Leveraging Google Classroom’s Newest Tools
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B210
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers will learn to implement Google Classroom to support standards-based instruction aligned with NCDPI priorities. Using tools like practice sets, quizzes, video activities, and rubrics, participants will streamline management, leverage data for formative assessment, and differentiate instruction to meet diverse student needs in all grades 6–12.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Carson

Julie Carson

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Julie C. Carson is an experienced Technology Facilitator and Instructional Leader with 28 years in public education. Her career reflects a deep commitment to helping educators and students thrive in a digital age by blending technology integration with strong instructional practices.Julie... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B210
  Educational Technology

8:30am EDT

Tuning in Content Connection with Music using Suno AI and Brisk
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D212
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore the exciting world of AI-powered music creation in this interactive session designed for K-12 teachers. This session introduces educators to the innovative tools offered by Suno AI, a platform that simplifies music-making through artificial intelligence. Participants will gain hands-on experience as they create their own music masterpiece while discovering practical ways to integrate these...
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Speakers
avatar for Kalo Haslem

Kalo Haslem

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
I am a Teaching professional with proven experience developing and implementing multidimensional lessons covering various topics and using various tools. Specifically skilled in integrating technology tools into the classroom to support content, improve 21st-century skills, and extend... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D212
  Educational Technology

8:30am EDT

ELA Essentials: Engaging, Evidence-Based Practices for Effective Instruction
FILLING
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C222
Limited Capacity filling up
E/LA teachers will receive best practices to implement in the classroom, focused on the Gradual Release of Responsibility and high-yield instructional strategies that are based on research and student engagement. Participants will leave this collaborative session with strategies and activities that can be used to increase rigor, critical thinking skills, and collaboration.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shannon Manley

Dr. Shannon Manley

Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Dr. Shannon Manley taught English for over twenty years in Cumberland County Schools at the middle and high school levels, where she served as a department chair, mentor, professional development facilitator, Canvas trainer, and designed Canvas courses and curriculum for English IV... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C222
  English Language Arts

8:30am EDT

Hispanic Family Support and Engagement
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D234
Limited Capacity seats available
This session highlights various efforts and ideas at the high school level to better support and engage Hispanic student populations and their families. With help from the Harnett Central High School Family Engagement Specialist, Giovanni Solera, and the new Hispanic Family Support Group, the HCHS Student Services team hopes to improve our Hispanic students and their families' overall success and...
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Speakers
avatar for Courtney Osborne

Courtney Osborne

School Counselor
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D234
  Family Engagement

8:30am EDT

Interactive Review games (get off the computer and get up and move)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C235
Limited Capacity seats available
Get your students up and moving with interactive review games such as, Jeopardy, Trashketball, Taboo Vocab, The Unfair Game, Scoot, Head Shoulders Table Grab, etc. Learn various ways to make team groups, and get students excited to review content without the use of their computers.
Speakers
avatar for Kimberly Kisch
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C235
  Formative Assessment

8:30am EDT

5 Strategies to Enhance Your Teaching in 2026
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C231
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will focus on 5 research-based strategies that can be used in any content area. These strategies are highly effective in raising student achievement (according to John Hattie's research) and form the foundation for strong Tier 1 instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Hinojoza

Rachel Hinojoza

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C231
  Instructional Strategies

8:30am EDT

Anchor the Learning, Elevate the Thinking
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B228
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will explore how anchor charts can support learning in middle and high school classrooms by making complex thinking visible and providing students with a consistent visual reference point. Teachers will learn strategies for using anchor charts to differentiate instruction, scaffold challenging content, reinforce multi-step procedures, and promote student...
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Speakers
avatar for Kelli Crews

Kelli Crews

6th Grade ELA Teacher, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B228
  Instructional Strategies

8:30am EDT

Marzano Mastery Approaches: Teaching Strategies
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C210
Limited Capacity seats available
Ready to energize your instruction and boost student achievement? Join us as we explore Marzano’s high-impact teaching strategies that engage learners, strengthen mastery, and make every lesson more effective. Walk away with practical, classroom-ready techniques you can use the very next day!
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson

Instructional Coach, Dunn Middle School
Jennifer Johnson is an experienced educational leader with more than 25 years in education, dedicated to improving teaching, learning, and student achievement. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles, teaching middle school Social Studies... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C210
  Instructional Strategies

8:30am EDT

Supporting Struggling Readers in ALL Content Areas
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C238
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will provide an overview of research-based approaches that benefit middle and high school struggling readers. Participants will explore how to support students using accelerated instructional strategies, and how to embed multiple accelerators into instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Abate
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C238
  Instructional Strategies

8:30am EDT

Leading Through Excellence: A Teacher's Role in Safety, Instruction, and Achievement.
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Auditoruim
Limited Capacity seats available
Mandatory: Sessions are available at 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 12:40 and 1:40
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Blackburn

Courtney Blackburn

Director, Harnett County Schools

Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Auditoruim
  Mandatory

8:30am EDT

Building Thinking Classrooms Style Instruction
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D211
Limited Capacity seats available
An introduction to the Building Thinking Classrooms model by Peter Lilljedahl. Increasing student conversation and interaction in small groups. Focus on math and math adjacent instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Patricia Shaffer

Patricia Shaffer

Teacher, Overhills High School
This year I will be teaching Math 1 first semester and Math 3 second semester. I would love to team up with some teachers and create a cross school PLC. 
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D211
  Mathematics

8:30am EDT

Say More Than the Answer: Math Discourse That Works
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C206
Limited Capacity seats available
Get students talking- and thinking! This session will focus on practical strategies to build meaningful math discourse. Participants will explore structured routines and teacher moves that spark conversation and thinking. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use strategies to move students beyond answers to deeper understanding. Comment end
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Sturkie

Danielle Sturkie

District Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C206
  Mathematics

8:30am EDT

Walls, Whiteboards, and Wonder
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C230
Limited Capacity seats available
Transform your math classroom with one simple shift: get students up and thinking. In this hands-on session, you’ll experience Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces in action, learn what makes tasks truly engaging, and leave with a ready-to-use activity that gets students talking, collaborating, and thinking deeply—starting tomorrow.
Speakers
DP

Diane Phillips

District Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C230
  Mathematics

8:30am EDT

Aiming for Accomplished: A Deep Dive into NCEES
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B215
Limited Capacity seats available
We will take an in-depth look at the NCEES instrument, equipping teachers with a clear understanding of the behaviors, evidence, and artifacts that demonstrate Accomplished-level performance.
Speakers
avatar for Carol Blalock

Carol Blalock

Recruitment and Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Michelle Vuncannon

Michelle Vuncannon

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B215
  Professional Growth

8:30am EDT

National Board Certification
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B221
Limited Capacity seats available


Do you want to learn how to earn more money while maximizing student learning? Research shows students taught by National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) achieve at higher levels, especially minority and low-income students. NBCTs are recognized as instructional experts and leaders—this session will guide you through the process and benefits of certification.
Speakers
avatar for Alisha Washington

Alisha Washington

Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
National Board Information
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B221
  Professional Growth

8:30am EDT

Recognizing and Responding to Student Mental Health Needs
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B204
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will gain an overview of common student mental health concerns, including trauma, suicide risk, and self-harm. Participants will learn to recognize warning signs, respond using supportive and trauma-informed strategies, and follow district protocols to address student mental health needs appropriately and compassionately within the school setting.
Speakers
avatar for Jessalyn Pedone

Jessalyn Pedone

Student Support Services Coordinator/Mental Health Support Team Lead, Harnett County Schools
I'm passionate about all things social work and mental health and feel incredibly fortunate to do work that allows me to support others every day. Outside of work, you'll usually find me baking something sweet, exploring new destinations with my family, or making memories with the... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B204
  SEL

8:30am EDT

Supporting Student Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Success
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B223
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores evidence-based strategies to foster student growth. Participants will learn to implement proactive interventions, embed social and emotional learning into daily routines. Participants will gain practical tools to manage classroom behaviors, support emotional regulation, and create a positive environment where every student can succeed.
Speakers
avatar for Natalie McCurley
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B223
  SEL

8:30am EDT

Connection Before Content
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C216
Limited Capacity seats available
Connection Before Content will explore how to incorporate inquiry-based instruction into unit plans.
Speakers
avatar for Alicia Ferguson

Alicia Ferguson

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett High
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C216
  Student Engagement

8:30am EDT

Mic Drop Moments: Using Discourse for Increased Student Engagement and Deeper Learning
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C213
Limited Capacity seats available
Boost student talk, collaboration, and critical thinking by designing purposeful student discourse opportunities. Explore how to set the stage with thinking and inking, and walk away with ready to use strategies that make talking a tool that sparks deeper student learning.
Speakers
avatar for Karen Parker

Karen Parker

Assistant Principal
avatar for Julia Greenstine

Julia Greenstine

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C213
  Student Engagement

8:30am EDT

Teaching Beyond Compliance: Designing Classrooms Where Students Think, Talk, and Learn
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B224
Limited Capacity seats available


In today's distraction-filled world, engagement must be intentionally designed—not hoped for. Learn practical strategies for creating classrooms where students move beyond compliance to think critically, participate meaningfully, and take ownership of their learning.
Speakers
HM

Heather McCracken

Instructional Coach, Highland Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
B224
  Student Engagement

8:30am EDT

Using Games in Secondary Classrooms
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D233
Limited Capacity seats available
Games are not just for elementary students! Learn about using games in secondary instruction– the research behind it, some of the benefits, and some realistic examples of how it can be effective, not just for review, but also for practice and assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Janel Gates
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D233
  Student Engagement

8:30am EDT

Bridging the Gap: A Teacher's Guide to Section 504
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D213
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will describe and explain Section 504 policies and procedures. Learn about the laws that define the program, the process required for referrals and Eligibility Determinations, and creating effective 504 Accommodation Plans. Implementation of accommodations in the classroom setting as well as maintaining legal compliance will be explored while transforming the legal jargon into...
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Speakers
AC
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D213
  Student Support

8:30am EDT

Seeing Success: Visual Schedules & Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D226
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will explore the importance of visual schedules and supports in promoting communication, independence, predictability, and positive behavior for students with autism and other diverse needs. Participants will learn practical strategies for implementing visual supports across classroom settings, review real-world examples, and leave with ready-to-use ideas to support student success...
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Speakers
NW

Nada Werner

EC Coach
AS
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
D226
  Student Support

8:30am EDT

Finding Calm in the Chaos
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C232
Limited Capacity seats available
Join us for a series of accessible movements and breathing exercises designed to bring calm and a quick reset to your hectic school day. Every practice can be done right from your desk, seated or standing—no extra equipment or change of clothes required!
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Deason

Michelle Deason

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Highland Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C232
  Teacher Wellness

8:30am EDT

Time Management Tips
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C215
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers tend to struggle with managing their time between job responsibilities and home. These are tips to help teachers protect their mental and physical health by prioritizing work and home life responsibilities.
Speakers
AF

Ann Fennell

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
C215
  Teacher Wellness

8:30am EDT

All Aboard: Navigating CTE Success(Double Block)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 10:20am EDT
Cafeteria
Limited Capacity seats available
Required for CTE Teachers:Set sail for a successful school year during this session designed to help CTE educators navigate policies, curriculum, and expectations with confidence. Participants will embark on a journey that provides a clear roadmap for the year ahead while building a shared vision for student success. Just as every successful voyage requires a well-prepared crew, a reliable...
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Speakers
avatar for Lindsey Hardee

Lindsey Hardee

CTE Director, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 10:20am EDT
Cafeteria
  CTE Teachers

8:30am EDT

ESL Teachers (Double Block)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 10:20am EDT
C201
Limited Capacity seats available
ESL Teachers ONLY: This professional development session will review key ESL policies, procedures, and expectations for the start of the school year. Topics include student identification and placement, service delivery, compliance requirements, documentation, assessment, communication, and important timelines. The session will ensure staff are aligned and prepared for a successful start to the...
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Speakers
avatar for Yully Roldan

Yully Roldan

ESL Lead Teacher
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 10:20am EDT
C201
  ESL Teachers

8:30am EDT

ECS Teachers (3 hours): Launch Week: Building Routines, Relationships, and Success in the ECS/SCMS Classrooms
FULL
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 11:20am EDT
B201
Limited Capacity full
ECS/SCMS Teachers ONLY: This half-day professional development session is designed to help ECS/SCMC educators prepare for a successful start to the school year. Participants will explore effective first-week strategies for establishing classroom routines, building positive relationships, creating structured learning environments, and supporting student behavior and engagement from day one....
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Speakers
avatar for Jessica Ross

Jessica Ross

EC Coach
JH

Jennifer Hatcher

EC Coordinator
Thursday August 6, 2026 8:30am - 11:20am EDT
B201
  ECS/SCMS Teachers

9:30am EDT

Mandatory Coaches Meeting
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
O-Zone
Limited Capacity seats available

Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
O-Zone
  Athletic Coaches

9:30am EDT

Policies, Procedures, and Protocols, Oh My: Strategies to Begin the Year Strong
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D206
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation highlights strategies for establishing strong classroom management through clear policies, procedures, and protocols. It emphasizes building relationships, creating social contracts, defining expectations, assigning classroom roles, and implementing consistent routines to foster accountability, safety, communication, and student success from the start of the school year.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melody Simpson

Dr. Melody Simpson

Assistant Principal, Triton High School
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D206
  Classroom Management

9:30am EDT

Responding with Purpose: Effective Behavior Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D221
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will equip educators with proactive and responsive behavior support strategies to create positive learning environments for all students. Participants will explore the function of behavior, effective intervention techniques, and practical classroom strategies that promote student engagement, self-regulation, and positive behavioral outcomes.
Speakers
CB
KD
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D221
  Classroom Management

9:30am EDT

Start Strong: Building Routines & Procedures That Work
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B206
Limited Capacity seats available
Learn how establishing routines and procedures from day one creates structure, supports positive classroom management, and prevents common behavior challenges. This session will explore practical strategies, real-life classroom scenarios, and proactive measures to help build an organized, productive, and successful learning environment.
Speakers
avatar for Shelby Kana

Shelby Kana

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B206
  Classroom Management

9:30am EDT

The New Teacher's Toolkit: Relationships, Routines, and Results
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C233
Limited Capacity seats available
Master the chaos with proactive strategies tailored for the secondary classroom. This session focuses on building authentic relationships, establishing high-leverage routines, and utilizing de-escalation techniques that preserve student dignity. Leave with a toolkit to create a structured, respectful, and high-achieving learning environment for grades 6-12.
Speakers
GR

Ginean Royal

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C233
  Classroom Management

9:30am EDT

Access for All: Accommodations/Modifications for Diverse Learners
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D215
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will provide educators with practical strategies for implementing effective accommodations and modifications to support diverse learners in the classroom. Participants will explore the differences between accommodations and modifications, review real-world examples, and learn how to increase student access, engagement, and success while maintaining high...
See More →
Speakers
AC

Amanda Curva

EC Coach
AH

April Hood

EC Director, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D215
  Differentiated Instruction

9:30am EDT

Support without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B227
Limited Capacity seats available
Support Without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve explores how scaffolding and chunking can support struggling learners while maintaining high expectations. Participants will learn practical strategies to break down complex tasks, promote independence, and help students access grade-level content without reducing rigor.
Speakers
AW

Alena Williford

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B227
  Differentiated Instruction

9:30am EDT

AI & the Science Geek AND The DOPE Educator Experience (GPT)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D209
Limited Capacity seats available
DOPE Science Geek GPT helps K–12 educators design engaging, standards-aligned science instruction using the DOPE Framework, Building Engineers, and the Scientific Method. Teachers upload materials or lesson ideas to generate low/no-tech investigations, literacy and writing connections, spaced review plans, and purposeful AI-supported reinforcement using platforms like Diffit and Curipod. This...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sid Lathan

Sid Lathan

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Throughout my career, I have maintained a consistent objective: to secure educational experiences that bring together strong instruction and technological innovation, particularly within economically restricted areas and communities. This mission reflects my lifelong commitment to... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D209
  Educational Technology

9:30am EDT

Beyond Flashcards: Using AI to make vocabulary stick
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D228
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking for a new way to introduce vocabulary? Learn how to use AI to create personalized stories, reading passages, and activities that help students interact with new vocabulary before instruction even begins. Walk away with ready-to-use prompts and practical strategies that save time while increasing student engagement.
Speakers
CH
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D228
  Educational Technology

9:30am EDT

Blending Traditional and Digital Learning with Wayground as the Hub
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B225
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover how to use Wayground to create rigorous, student-centered learning experiences that blend traditional instruction with digital tools. Explore strategies for differentiation, MTSS support, data-driven decision making, and time-saving workflows that improve student outcomes while making planning, assessment, and intervention more efficient.
Speakers
avatar for Susanna Eaker Hitt

Susanna Eaker Hitt

Teacher
My name is Susanna Hitt. I have been a teacher in Harnett for the last 11 years, and I have 20 years of combined experience in Illinois, Missouri, California, and North Carolina.  I have a BA in Social Science with a minor in Psychology.  I hold a Master's of Educational Leadership... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B225
  Educational Technology

9:30am EDT

Ecosystems Over Islands: Building the Connected Classroom with Google Workspace
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B207
Limited Capacity seats available
What happens when the tools educators already use every day stop functioning like separate apps and start working together as one connected ecosystem? In this engaging Google Workspace-powered session, educators will explore practical strategies for using tools like Google Classroom, Gemini, NotebookLM, Slides, Gmail, and Drive to support teacher productivity, streamline workflows, and create more...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Christie Cloud

Christie Cloud

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
Christie Cloud is an Instructional Technology Facilitator in Harnett County, North Carolina and an adjunct professor at Thomas University. With 24 years in education, she’s passionate about empowering teachers through authentic and creative technology integration. A GaETC Rising... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B207
  Educational Technology

9:30am EDT

Leveraging Google Classroom’s Newest Tools
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B210
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers will learn to implement Google Classroom to support standards-based instruction aligned with NCDPI priorities. Using tools like practice sets, quizzes, video activities, and rubrics, participants will streamline management, leverage data for formative assessment, and differentiate instruction to meet diverse student needs in all grades 6–12.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Carson

Julie Carson

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Julie C. Carson is an experienced Technology Facilitator and Instructional Leader with 28 years in public education. Her career reflects a deep commitment to helping educators and students thrive in a digital age by blending technology integration with strong instructional practices.Julie... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B210
  Educational Technology

9:30am EDT

Tuning in Content Connection with Music using Suno AI and Brisk
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D212
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore the exciting world of AI-powered music creation in this interactive session designed for K-12 teachers. This session introduces educators to the innovative tools offered by Suno AI, a platform that simplifies music-making through artificial intelligence. Participants will gain hands-on experience as they create their own music masterpiece while discovering practical ways to integrate these...
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Speakers
avatar for Kalo Haslem

Kalo Haslem

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
I am a Teaching professional with proven experience developing and implementing multidimensional lessons covering various topics and using various tools. Specifically skilled in integrating technology tools into the classroom to support content, improve 21st-century skills, and extend... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D212
  Educational Technology

9:30am EDT

ELA Essentials: Engaging, Evidence-Based Practices for Effective Instruction
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C222
Limited Capacity seats available
E/LA teachers will receive best practices to implement in the classroom, focused on the Gradual Release of Responsibility and high-yield instructional strategies that are based on research and student engagement. Participants will leave this collaborative session with strategies and activities that can be used to increase rigor, critical thinking skills, and collaboration.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shannon Manley

Dr. Shannon Manley

Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Dr. Shannon Manley taught English for over twenty years in Cumberland County Schools at the middle and high school levels, where she served as a department chair, mentor, professional development facilitator, Canvas trainer, and designed Canvas courses and curriculum for English IV... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C222
  English Language Arts

9:30am EDT

Hispanic Family Support and Engagement
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D234
Limited Capacity seats available
This session highlights various efforts and ideas at the high school level to better support and engage Hispanic student populations and their families. With help from the Harnett Central High School Family Engagement Specialist, Giovanni Solera, and the new Hispanic Family Support Group, the HCHS Student Services team hopes to improve our Hispanic students and their families' overall success and...
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Speakers
avatar for Courtney Osborne

Courtney Osborne

School Counselor
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D234
  Family Engagement

9:30am EDT

Interactive Review games (get off the computer and get up and move)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C235
Limited Capacity seats available
Get your students up and moving with interactive review games such as, Jeopardy, Trashketball, Taboo Vocab, The Unfair Game, Scoot, Head Shoulders Table Grab, etc. Learn various ways to make team groups, and get students excited to review content without the use of their computers.
Speakers
avatar for Kimberly Kisch
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C235
  Formative Assessment

9:30am EDT

5 Strategies to Enhance Your Teaching in 2026
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C231
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will focus on 5 "tried and true" instructional strategies that can be used in any 6–12 classroom, regardless of content area.  Whether you're refining practices you've used for years or looking for fresh ideas to enhance your teaching, you'll leave with practical, research-based strategies that can strengthen your instructional toolbox.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Hinojoza

Rachel Hinojoza

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C231
  Instructional Strategies

9:30am EDT

Anchor the Learning, Elevate the Thinking
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B228
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will explore how anchor charts can support learning in middle and high school classrooms by making complex thinking visible and providing students with a consistent visual reference point. Teachers will learn strategies for using anchor charts to differentiate instruction, scaffold challenging content, reinforce multi-step procedures, and promote student...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Kelli Crews

Kelli Crews

6th Grade ELA Teacher, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B228
  Instructional Strategies

9:30am EDT

Marzano Mastery Approaches: Teaching Strategies
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C210
Limited Capacity seats available
Ready to energize your instruction and boost student achievement? Join us as we explore Marzano’s high-impact teaching strategies that engage learners, strengthen mastery, and make every lesson more effective. Walk away with practical, classroom-ready techniques you can use the very next day!
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson

Instructional Coach, Dunn Middle School
Jennifer Johnson is an experienced educational leader with more than 25 years in education, dedicated to improving teaching, learning, and student achievement. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles, teaching middle school Social Studies... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C210
  Instructional Strategies

9:30am EDT

Small Shifts, Big Impact: Making Differentiation Practical
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C204
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore practical ways to move beyond “one-size-fits-all” instruction through intentional differentiation. This session focuses on strategies for adjusting content, process, and product to keep learning challenging, meaningful, and achievable for all students while supporting rigor, engagement, and growth across the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Martha Chandler

Martha Chandler

AIG Curriculum Specialist, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Wendy Nash

Wendy Nash

AIG Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C204
  Instructional Strategies

9:30am EDT

Supporting Struggling Readers in ALL Content Areas
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C238
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will provide an overview of research-based approaches that benefit middle and high school struggling readers. Participants will explore how to support students using accelerated instructional strategies, and how to embed multiple accelerators into instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Abate
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C238
  Instructional Strategies

9:30am EDT

Leading Through Excellence: A Teacher's Role in Safety, Instruction, and Achievement.
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Auditoruim
Limited Capacity seats available
Mandatory: Sessions are available at 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 12:40 and 1:40
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Blackburn

Courtney Blackburn

Director, Harnett County Schools

Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Auditoruim
  Mandatory

9:30am EDT

Building Thinking Classrooms Style Instruction
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D211
Limited Capacity seats available
An introduction to the Building Thinking Classrooms model by Peter Lilljedahl. Increasing student conversation and interaction in small groups. Focus on math and math adjacent instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Patricia Shaffer

Patricia Shaffer

Teacher, Overhills High School
This year I will be teaching Math 1 first semester and Math 3 second semester. I would love to team up with some teachers and create a cross school PLC. 
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D211
  Mathematics

9:30am EDT

Say More Than the Answer: Math Discourse That Works
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C206
Limited Capacity seats available
Get students talking- and thinking! This session will focus on practical strategies to build meaningful math discourse. Participants will explore structured routines and teacher moves that spark conversation and thinking. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use strategies to move students beyond answers to deeper understanding. Comment end
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Sturkie

Danielle Sturkie

District Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C206
  Mathematics

9:30am EDT

Walls, Whiteboards, and Wonder
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C230
Limited Capacity seats available
Transform your math classroom with one simple shift: get students up and thinking. In this hands-on session, you’ll experience Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces in action, learn what makes tasks truly engaging, and leave with a ready-to-use activity that gets students talking, collaborating, and thinking deeply—starting tomorrow.
Speakers
DP

Diane Phillips

District Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C230
  Mathematics

9:30am EDT

Aiming for Accomplished: A Deep Dive into NCEES
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B215
Limited Capacity seats available
We will take an in-depth look at the NCEES instrument, equipping teachers with a clear understanding of the behaviors, evidence, and artifacts that demonstrate Accomplished-level performance.
Speakers
avatar for Carol Blalock

Carol Blalock

Recruitment and Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Michelle Vuncannon

Michelle Vuncannon

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B215
  Professional Growth

9:30am EDT

National Board Certification
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B221
Limited Capacity seats available


Do you want to learn how to earn more money while maximizing student learning? Research shows students taught by National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) achieve at higher levels, especially minority and low-income students. NBCTs are recognized as instructional experts and leaders—this session will guide you through the process and benefits of certification.
Speakers
avatar for Alisha Washington

Alisha Washington

Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
National Board Information
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B221
  Professional Growth

9:30am EDT

Recognizing and Responding to Student Mental Health Needs
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B204
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will gain an overview of common student mental health concerns, including trauma, suicide risk, and self-harm. Participants will learn to recognize warning signs, respond using supportive and trauma-informed strategies, and follow district protocols to address student mental health needs appropriately and compassionately within the school setting.
Speakers
avatar for Jessalyn Pedone

Jessalyn Pedone

Student Support Services Coordinator/Mental Health Support Team Lead, Harnett County Schools
I'm passionate about all things social work and mental health and feel incredibly fortunate to do work that allows me to support others every day. Outside of work, you'll usually find me baking something sweet, exploring new destinations with my family, or making memories with the... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B204
  SEL

9:30am EDT

Supporting Student Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Success
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B223
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores evidence-based strategies to foster student growth. Participants will learn to implement proactive interventions, embed social and emotional learning into daily routines. Participants will gain practical tools to manage classroom behaviors, support emotional regulation, and create a positive environment where every student can succeed.
Speakers
avatar for Natalie McCurley
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B223
  SEL

9:30am EDT

Connection Before Content
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C216
Limited Capacity seats available
Connection Before Content will explore how to incorporate inquiry-based instruction into unit plans.
Speakers
avatar for Alicia Ferguson

Alicia Ferguson

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett High
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C216
  Student Engagement

9:30am EDT

Mic Drop Moments: Using Discourse for Increased Student Engagement and Deeper Learning
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C213
Limited Capacity seats available
Boost student talk, collaboration, and critical thinking by designing purposeful student discourse opportunities. Explore how to set the stage with thinking and inking, and walk away with ready to use strategies that make talking a tool that sparks deeper student learning.
Speakers
avatar for Karen Parker

Karen Parker

Assistant Principal
avatar for Julia Greenstine

Julia Greenstine

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C213
  Student Engagement

9:30am EDT

Teaching Beyond Compliance: Designing Classrooms Where Students Think, Talk, and Learn
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B224
Limited Capacity seats available


In today's distraction-filled world, engagement must be intentionally designed—not hoped for. Learn practical strategies for creating classrooms where students move beyond compliance to think critically, participate meaningfully, and take ownership of their learning.
Speakers
HM

Heather McCracken

Instructional Coach, Highland Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
B224
  Student Engagement

9:30am EDT

Using Games in Secondary Classrooms
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D233
Limited Capacity seats available
Games are not just for elementary students! Learn about using games in secondary instruction– the research behind it, some of the benefits, and some realistic examples of how it can be effective, not just for review, but also for practice and assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Janel Gates
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D233
  Student Engagement

9:30am EDT

Bridging the Gap: A Teacher's Guide to Section 504
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D213
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will describe and explain Section 504 policies and procedures. Learn about the laws that define the program, the process required for referrals and Eligibility Determinations, and creating effective 504 Accommodation Plans. Implementation of accommodations in the classroom setting as well as maintaining legal compliance will be explored while transforming the legal jargon into...
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Speakers
AC
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D213
  Student Support

9:30am EDT

Seeing Success: Visual Schedules & Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D226
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will explore the importance of visual schedules and supports in promoting communication, independence, predictability, and positive behavior for students with autism and other diverse needs. Participants will learn practical strategies for implementing visual supports across classroom settings, review real-world examples, and leave with ready-to-use ideas to support student success...
See More →
Speakers
NW

Nada Werner

EC Coach
AS
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
D226
  Student Support

9:30am EDT

Finding Calm in the Chaos
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C232
Limited Capacity seats available
Join us for a series of accessible movements and breathing exercises designed to bring calm and a quick reset to your hectic school day. Every practice can be done right from your desk, seated or standing—no extra equipment or change of clothes required!
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Deason

Michelle Deason

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Highland Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C232
  Teacher Wellness

9:30am EDT

Time Management Tips
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C215
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers tend to struggle with managing their time between job responsibilities and home. These are tips to help teachers protect their mental and physical health by prioritizing work and home life responsibilities.
Speakers
AF

Ann Fennell

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
C215
  Teacher Wellness

10:30am EDT

Mandatory Coaches Meeting
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
O-Zone
Limited Capacity seats available

Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
O-Zone
  Athletic Coaches

10:30am EDT

Policies, Procedures, and Protocols, Oh My: Strategies to Begin the Year Strong
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D206
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation highlights strategies for establishing strong classroom management through clear policies, procedures, and protocols. It emphasizes building relationships, creating social contracts, defining expectations, assigning classroom roles, and implementing consistent routines to foster accountability, safety, communication, and student success from the start of the school year.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melody Simpson

Dr. Melody Simpson

Assistant Principal, Triton High School
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D206
  Classroom Management

10:30am EDT

Responding with Purpose: Effective Behavior Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D221
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will equip educators with proactive and responsive behavior support strategies to create positive learning environments for all students. Participants will explore the function of behavior, effective intervention techniques, and practical classroom strategies that promote student engagement, self-regulation, and positive behavioral outcomes.
Speakers
CB
KD
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D221
  Classroom Management

10:30am EDT

Start Strong: Building Routines & Procedures That Work
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B206
Limited Capacity seats available
Learn how establishing routines and procedures from day one creates structure, supports positive classroom management, and prevents common behavior challenges. This session will explore practical strategies, real-life classroom scenarios, and proactive measures to help build an organized, productive, and successful learning environment.
Speakers
avatar for Shelby Kana

Shelby Kana

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B206
  Classroom Management

10:30am EDT

The New Teacher's Toolkit: Relationships, Routines, and Results
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C233
Limited Capacity seats available
Master the chaos with proactive strategies tailored for the secondary classroom. This session focuses on building authentic relationships, establishing high-leverage routines, and utilizing de-escalation techniques that preserve student dignity. Leave with a toolkit to create a structured, respectful, and high-achieving learning environment for grades 6-12.
Speakers
GR

Ginean Royal

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C233
  Classroom Management

10:30am EDT

Access for All: Accommodations/Modifications for Diverse Learners
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D215
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will provide educators with practical strategies for implementing effective accommodations and modifications to support diverse learners in the classroom. Participants will explore the differences between accommodations and modifications, review real-world examples, and learn how to increase student access, engagement, and success while maintaining high...
See More →
Speakers
AC

Amanda Curva

EC Coach
AH

April Hood

EC Director, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D215
  Differentiated Instruction

10:30am EDT

Support without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B227
Limited Capacity seats available
Support Without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve explores how scaffolding and chunking can support struggling learners while maintaining high expectations. Participants will learn practical strategies to break down complex tasks, promote independence, and help students access grade-level content without reducing rigor.
Speakers
AW

Alena Williford

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B227
  Differentiated Instruction

10:30am EDT

AI & the Science Geek AND The DOPE Educator Experience (GPT)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D209
Limited Capacity seats available
DOPE Science Geek GPT helps K–12 educators design engaging, standards-aligned science instruction using the DOPE Framework, Building Engineers, and the Scientific Method. Teachers upload materials or lesson ideas to generate low/no-tech investigations, literacy and writing connections, spaced review plans, and purposeful AI-supported reinforcement using platforms like Diffit and Curipod. This...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Sid Lathan

Sid Lathan

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Throughout my career, I have maintained a consistent objective: to secure educational experiences that bring together strong instruction and technological innovation, particularly within economically restricted areas and communities. This mission reflects my lifelong commitment to... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D209
  Educational Technology

10:30am EDT

Beyond Flashcards: Using AI to make vocabulary stick
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D228
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking for a new way to introduce vocabulary? Learn how to use AI to create personalized stories, reading passages, and activities that help students interact with new vocabulary before instruction even begins. Walk away with ready-to-use prompts and practical strategies that save time while increasing student engagement.
Speakers
CH
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D228
  Educational Technology

10:30am EDT

Blending Traditional and Digital Learning with Wayground as the Hub
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B225
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover how to use Wayground to create rigorous, student-centered learning experiences that blend traditional instruction with digital tools. Explore strategies for differentiation, MTSS support, data-driven decision making, and time-saving workflows that improve student outcomes while making planning, assessment, and intervention more efficient.
Speakers
avatar for Susanna Eaker Hitt

Susanna Eaker Hitt

Teacher
My name is Susanna Hitt. I have been a teacher in Harnett for the last 11 years, and I have 20 years of combined experience in Illinois, Missouri, California, and North Carolina.  I have a BA in Social Science with a minor in Psychology.  I hold a Master's of Educational Leadership... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B225
  Educational Technology

10:30am EDT

Ecosystems Over Islands: Building the Connected Classroom with Google Workspace
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B207
Limited Capacity seats available
What happens when the tools educators already use every day stop functioning like separate apps and start working together as one connected ecosystem? In this engaging Google Workspace-powered session, educators will explore practical strategies for using tools like Google Classroom, Gemini, NotebookLM, Slides, Gmail, and Drive to support teacher productivity, streamline workflows, and create more...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Christie Cloud

Christie Cloud

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
Christie Cloud is an Instructional Technology Facilitator in Harnett County, North Carolina and an adjunct professor at Thomas University. With 24 years in education, she’s passionate about empowering teachers through authentic and creative technology integration. A GaETC Rising... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B207
  Educational Technology

10:30am EDT

Leveraging Google Classroom’s Newest Tools
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B210
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers will learn to implement Google Classroom to support standards-based instruction aligned with NCDPI priorities. Using tools like practice sets, quizzes, video activities, and rubrics, participants will streamline management, leverage data for formative assessment, and differentiate instruction to meet diverse student needs in all grades 6–12.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Carson

Julie Carson

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Julie C. Carson is an experienced Technology Facilitator and Instructional Leader with 28 years in public education. Her career reflects a deep commitment to helping educators and students thrive in a digital age by blending technology integration with strong instructional practices.Julie... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B210
  Educational Technology

10:30am EDT

Tuning in Content Connection with Music using Suno AI and Brisk
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D212
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore the exciting world of AI-powered music creation in this interactive session designed for K-12 teachers. This session introduces educators to the innovative tools offered by Suno AI, a platform that simplifies music-making through artificial intelligence. Participants will gain hands-on experience as they create their own music masterpiece while discovering practical ways to integrate these...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Kalo Haslem

Kalo Haslem

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
I am a Teaching professional with proven experience developing and implementing multidimensional lessons covering various topics and using various tools. Specifically skilled in integrating technology tools into the classroom to support content, improve 21st-century skills, and extend... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D212
  Educational Technology

10:30am EDT

ELA Essentials: Engaging, Evidence-Based Practices for Effective Instruction
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C222
Limited Capacity seats available
E/LA teachers will receive best practices to implement in the classroom, focused on the Gradual Release of Responsibility and high-yield instructional strategies that are based on research and student engagement. Participants will leave this collaborative session with strategies and activities that can be used to increase rigor, critical thinking skills, and collaboration.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shannon Manley

Dr. Shannon Manley

Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Dr. Shannon Manley taught English for over twenty years in Cumberland County Schools at the middle and high school levels, where she served as a department chair, mentor, professional development facilitator, Canvas trainer, and designed Canvas courses and curriculum for English IV... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C222
  English Language Arts

10:30am EDT

Hispanic Family Support and Engagement
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D234
Limited Capacity seats available
This session highlights various efforts and ideas at the high school level to better support and engage Hispanic student populations and their families. With help from the Harnett Central High School Family Engagement Specialist, Giovanni Solera, and the new Hispanic Family Support Group, the HCHS Student Services team hopes to improve our Hispanic students and their families' overall success and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Osborne

Courtney Osborne

School Counselor
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D234
  Family Engagement

10:30am EDT

Interactive Review games (get off the computer and get up and move)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C235
Limited Capacity seats available
Get your students up and moving with interactive review games such as, Jeopardy, Trashketball, Taboo Vocab, The Unfair Game, Scoot, Head Shoulders Table Grab, etc. Learn various ways to make team groups, and get students excited to review content without the use of their computers.
Speakers
avatar for Kimberly Kisch
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C235
  Formative Assessment

10:30am EDT

5 Strategies to Enhance Your Teaching in 2026
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C231
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will focus on 5 "tried and true" instructional strategies that can be used in any 6–12 classroom, regardless of content area.  Whether you're refining practices you've used for years or looking for fresh ideas to enhance your teaching, you'll leave with practical, research-based strategies that can strengthen your instructional toolbox.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Hinojoza

Rachel Hinojoza

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C231
  Instructional Strategies

10:30am EDT

Anchor the Learning, Elevate the Thinking
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B228
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will explore how anchor charts can support learning in middle and high school classrooms by making complex thinking visible and providing students with a consistent visual reference point. Teachers will learn strategies for using anchor charts to differentiate instruction, scaffold challenging content, reinforce multi-step procedures, and promote student...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Kelli Crews

Kelli Crews

6th Grade ELA Teacher, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B228
  Instructional Strategies

10:30am EDT

Marzano Mastery Approaches: Teaching Strategies
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C210
Limited Capacity seats available
Ready to energize your instruction and boost student achievement? Join us as we explore Marzano’s high-impact teaching strategies that engage learners, strengthen mastery, and make every lesson more effective. Walk away with practical, classroom-ready techniques you can use the very next day!
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson

Instructional Coach, Dunn Middle School
Jennifer Johnson is an experienced educational leader with more than 25 years in education, dedicated to improving teaching, learning, and student achievement. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles, teaching middle school Social Studies... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C210
  Instructional Strategies

10:30am EDT

Small Shifts, Big Impact: Making Differentiation Practical
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C204
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore practical ways to move beyond “one-size-fits-all” instruction through intentional differentiation. This session focuses on strategies for adjusting content, process, and product to keep learning challenging, meaningful, and achievable for all students while supporting rigor, engagement, and growth across the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Martha Chandler

Martha Chandler

AIG Curriculum Specialist, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Wendy Nash

Wendy Nash

AIG Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C204
  Instructional Strategies

10:30am EDT

Supporting Struggling Readers in ALL Content Areas
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C238
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will provide an overview of research-based approaches that benefit middle and high school struggling readers. Participants will explore how to support students using accelerated instructional strategies, and how to embed multiple accelerators into instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Abate
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C238
  Instructional Strategies

10:30am EDT

Leading Through Excellence: A Teacher's Role in Safety, Instruction, and Achievement.
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
Auditoruim
Limited Capacity seats available
Mandatory: Sessions are available at 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 12:40 and 1:40
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Blackburn

Courtney Blackburn

Director, Harnett County Schools

Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
Auditoruim
  Mandatory

10:30am EDT

Building Thinking Classrooms Style Instruction
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D211
Limited Capacity seats available
An introduction to the Building Thinking Classrooms model by Peter Lilljedahl. Increasing student conversation and interaction in small groups. Focus on math and math adjacent instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Patricia Shaffer

Patricia Shaffer

Teacher, Overhills High School
This year I will be teaching Math 1 first semester and Math 3 second semester. I would love to team up with some teachers and create a cross school PLC. 
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D211
  Mathematics

10:30am EDT

Say More Than the Answer: Math Discourse That Works
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C206
Limited Capacity seats available
Get students talking- and thinking! This session will focus on practical strategies to build meaningful math discourse. Participants will explore structured routines and teacher moves that spark conversation and thinking. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use strategies to move students beyond answers to deeper understanding. Comment end
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Sturkie

Danielle Sturkie

District Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C206
  Mathematics

10:30am EDT

Walls, Whiteboards, and Wonder
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C230
Limited Capacity seats available
Transform your math classroom with one simple shift: get students up and thinking. In this hands-on session, you’ll experience Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces in action, learn what makes tasks truly engaging, and leave with a ready-to-use activity that gets students talking, collaborating, and thinking deeply—starting tomorrow.
Speakers
DP

Diane Phillips

District Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C230
  Mathematics

10:30am EDT

Aiming for Accomplished: A Deep Dive into NCEES
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B215
Limited Capacity seats available
We will take an in-depth look at the NCEES instrument, equipping teachers with a clear understanding of the behaviors, evidence, and artifacts that demonstrate Accomplished-level performance.
Speakers
avatar for Carol Blalock

Carol Blalock

Recruitment and Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Michelle Vuncannon

Michelle Vuncannon

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B215
  Professional Growth

10:30am EDT

National Board Certification
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B221
Limited Capacity seats available


Do you want to learn how to earn more money while maximizing student learning? Research shows students taught by National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) achieve at higher levels, especially minority and low-income students. NBCTs are recognized as instructional experts and leaders—this session will guide you through the process and benefits of certification.
Speakers
avatar for Alisha Washington

Alisha Washington

Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
National Board Information
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B221
  Professional Growth

10:30am EDT

Recognizing and Responding to Student Mental Health Needs
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B204
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will gain an overview of common student mental health concerns, including trauma, suicide risk, and self-harm. Participants will learn to recognize warning signs, respond using supportive and trauma-informed strategies, and follow district protocols to address student mental health needs appropriately and compassionately within the school setting.
Speakers
avatar for Jessalyn Pedone

Jessalyn Pedone

Student Support Services Coordinator/Mental Health Support Team Lead, Harnett County Schools
I'm passionate about all things social work and mental health and feel incredibly fortunate to do work that allows me to support others every day. Outside of work, you'll usually find me baking something sweet, exploring new destinations with my family, or making memories with the... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B204
  SEL

10:30am EDT

Supporting Student Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Success
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B223
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores evidence-based strategies to foster student growth. Participants will learn to implement proactive interventions, embed social and emotional learning into daily routines. Participants will gain practical tools to manage classroom behaviors, support emotional regulation, and create a positive environment where every student can succeed.
Speakers
avatar for Natalie McCurley
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B223
  SEL

10:30am EDT

Connection Before Content
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C216
Limited Capacity seats available
Connection Before Content will explore how to incorporate inquiry-based instruction into unit plans.
Speakers
avatar for Alicia Ferguson

Alicia Ferguson

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett High
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C216
  Student Engagement

10:30am EDT

Mic Drop Moments: Using Discourse for Increased Student Engagement and Deeper Learning
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C213
Limited Capacity seats available
Boost student talk, collaboration, and critical thinking by designing purposeful student discourse opportunities. Explore how to set the stage with thinking and inking, and walk away with ready to use strategies that make talking a tool that sparks deeper student learning.
Speakers
avatar for Karen Parker

Karen Parker

Assistant Principal
avatar for Julia Greenstine

Julia Greenstine

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C213
  Student Engagement

10:30am EDT

Teaching Beyond Compliance: Designing Classrooms Where Students Think, Talk, and Learn
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B224
Limited Capacity seats available


In today's distraction-filled world, engagement must be intentionally designed—not hoped for. Learn practical strategies for creating classrooms where students move beyond compliance to think critically, participate meaningfully, and take ownership of their learning.
Speakers
HM

Heather McCracken

Instructional Coach, Highland Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
B224
  Student Engagement

10:30am EDT

Using Games in Secondary Classrooms
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D233
Limited Capacity seats available
Games are not just for elementary students! Learn about using games in secondary instruction– the research behind it, some of the benefits, and some realistic examples of how it can be effective, not just for review, but also for practice and assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Janel Gates
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D233
  Student Engagement

10:30am EDT

Bridging the Gap: A Teacher's Guide to Section 504
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D213
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will describe and explain Section 504 policies and procedures. Learn about the laws that define the program, the process required for referrals and Eligibility Determinations, and creating effective 504 Accommodation Plans. Implementation of accommodations in the classroom setting as well as maintaining legal compliance will be explored while transforming the legal jargon into...
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Speakers
AC
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D213
  Student Support

10:30am EDT

Seeing Success: Visual Schedules & Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D226
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will explore the importance of visual schedules and supports in promoting communication, independence, predictability, and positive behavior for students with autism and other diverse needs. Participants will learn practical strategies for implementing visual supports across classroom settings, review real-world examples, and leave with ready-to-use ideas to support student success...
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Speakers
NW

Nada Werner

EC Coach
AS
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
D226
  Student Support

10:30am EDT

Finding Calm in the Chaos
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C232
Limited Capacity seats available
Join us for a series of accessible movements and breathing exercises designed to bring calm and a quick reset to your hectic school day. Every practice can be done right from your desk, seated or standing—no extra equipment or change of clothes required!
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Deason

Michelle Deason

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Highland Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C232
  Teacher Wellness

10:30am EDT

Time Management Tips
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C215
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers tend to struggle with managing their time between job responsibilities and home. These are tips to help teachers protect their mental and physical health by prioritizing work and home life responsibilities.
Speakers
AF

Ann Fennell

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 10:30am - 11:20am EDT
C215
  Teacher Wellness

12:40pm EDT

Mandatory Coaches Meeting
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
O-Zone
Limited Capacity seats available

Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
O-Zone
  Athletic Coaches

12:40pm EDT

Policies, Procedures, and Protocols, Oh My: Strategies to Begin the Year Strong
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D206
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation highlights strategies for establishing strong classroom management through clear policies, procedures, and protocols. It emphasizes building relationships, creating social contracts, defining expectations, assigning classroom roles, and implementing consistent routines to foster accountability, safety, communication, and student success from the start of the school year.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melody Simpson

Dr. Melody Simpson

Assistant Principal, Triton High School
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D206
  Classroom Management

12:40pm EDT

Responding with Purpose: Effective Behavior Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D221
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will equip educators with proactive and responsive behavior support strategies to create positive learning environments for all students. Participants will explore the function of behavior, effective intervention techniques, and practical classroom strategies that promote student engagement, self-regulation, and positive behavioral outcomes.
Speakers
CB
KD
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D221
  Classroom Management

12:40pm EDT

Start Strong: Building Routines & Procedures That Work
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B206
Limited Capacity seats available
Learn how establishing routines and procedures from day one creates structure, supports positive classroom management, and prevents common behavior challenges. This session will explore practical strategies, real-life classroom scenarios, and proactive measures to help build an organized, productive, and successful learning environment.
Speakers
avatar for Shelby Kana

Shelby Kana

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B206
  Classroom Management

12:40pm EDT

The New Teacher's Toolkit: Relationships, Routines, and Results
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C233
Limited Capacity seats available
Master the chaos with proactive strategies tailored for the secondary classroom. This session focuses on building authentic relationships, establishing high-leverage routines, and utilizing de-escalation techniques that preserve student dignity. Leave with a toolkit to create a structured, respectful, and high-achieving learning environment for grades 6-12.
Speakers
GR

Ginean Royal

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C233
  Classroom Management

12:40pm EDT

Access for All: Accommodations/Modifications for Diverse Learners
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D215
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will provide educators with practical strategies for implementing effective accommodations and modifications to support diverse learners in the classroom. Participants will explore the differences between accommodations and modifications, review real-world examples, and learn how to increase student access, engagement, and success while maintaining high...
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Speakers
AC

Amanda Curva

EC Coach
AH

April Hood

EC Director, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D215
  Differentiated Instruction

12:40pm EDT

Support without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B227
Limited Capacity seats available
Support Without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve explores how scaffolding and chunking can support struggling learners while maintaining high expectations. Participants will learn practical strategies to break down complex tasks, promote independence, and help students access grade-level content without reducing rigor.
Speakers
AW

Alena Williford

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B227
  Differentiated Instruction

12:40pm EDT

AI & the Science Geek AND The DOPE Educator Experience (GPT)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D209
Limited Capacity seats available
DOPE Science Geek GPT helps K–12 educators design engaging, standards-aligned science instruction using the DOPE Framework, Building Engineers, and the Scientific Method. Teachers upload materials or lesson ideas to generate low/no-tech investigations, literacy and writing connections, spaced review plans, and purposeful AI-supported reinforcement using platforms like Diffit and Curipod. This...
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Speakers
avatar for Sid Lathan

Sid Lathan

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Throughout my career, I have maintained a consistent objective: to secure educational experiences that bring together strong instruction and technological innovation, particularly within economically restricted areas and communities. This mission reflects my lifelong commitment to... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D209
  Educational Technology

12:40pm EDT

Beyond Flashcards: Using AI to make vocabulary stick
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D228
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking for a new way to introduce vocabulary? Learn how to use AI to create personalized stories, reading passages, and activities that help students interact with new vocabulary before instruction even begins. Walk away with ready-to-use prompts and practical strategies that save time while increasing student engagement.
Speakers
CH
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D228
  Educational Technology

12:40pm EDT

Blending Traditional and Digital Learning with Wayground as the Hub
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B225
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover how to use Wayground to create rigorous, student-centered learning experiences that blend traditional instruction with digital tools. Explore strategies for differentiation, MTSS support, data-driven decision making, and time-saving workflows that improve student outcomes while making planning, assessment, and intervention more efficient.
Speakers
avatar for Susanna Eaker Hitt

Susanna Eaker Hitt

Teacher
My name is Susanna Hitt. I have been a teacher in Harnett for the last 11 years, and I have 20 years of combined experience in Illinois, Missouri, California, and North Carolina.  I have a BA in Social Science with a minor in Psychology.  I hold a Master's of Educational Leadership... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B225
  Educational Technology

12:40pm EDT

Ecosystems Over Islands: Building the Connected Classroom with Google Workspace
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B207
Limited Capacity seats available
What happens when the tools educators already use every day stop functioning like separate apps and start working together as one connected ecosystem? In this engaging Google Workspace-powered session, educators will explore practical strategies for using tools like Google Classroom, Gemini, NotebookLM, Slides, Gmail, and Drive to support teacher productivity, streamline workflows, and create more...
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Speakers
avatar for Christie Cloud

Christie Cloud

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
Christie Cloud is an Instructional Technology Facilitator in Harnett County, North Carolina and an adjunct professor at Thomas University. With 24 years in education, she’s passionate about empowering teachers through authentic and creative technology integration. A GaETC Rising... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B207
  Educational Technology

12:40pm EDT

Leveraging Google Classroom’s Newest Tools
FILLING
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B210
Limited Capacity filling up
Teachers will learn to implement Google Classroom to support standards-based instruction aligned with NCDPI priorities. Using tools like practice sets, quizzes, video activities, and rubrics, participants will streamline management, leverage data for formative assessment, and differentiate instruction to meet diverse student needs in all grades 6–12.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Carson

Julie Carson

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Julie C. Carson is an experienced Technology Facilitator and Instructional Leader with 28 years in public education. Her career reflects a deep commitment to helping educators and students thrive in a digital age by blending technology integration with strong instructional practices.Julie... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B210
  Educational Technology

12:40pm EDT

Tuning in Content Connection with Music using Suno AI and Brisk
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D212
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore the exciting world of AI-powered music creation in this interactive session designed for K-12 teachers. This session introduces educators to the innovative tools offered by Suno AI, a platform that simplifies music-making through artificial intelligence. Participants will gain hands-on experience as they create their own music masterpiece while discovering practical ways to integrate these...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Kalo Haslem

Kalo Haslem

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
I am a Teaching professional with proven experience developing and implementing multidimensional lessons covering various topics and using various tools. Specifically skilled in integrating technology tools into the classroom to support content, improve 21st-century skills, and extend... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D212
  Educational Technology

12:40pm EDT

ELA Essentials: Engaging, Evidence-Based Practices for Effective Instruction
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C222
Limited Capacity seats available
E/LA teachers will receive best practices to implement in the classroom, focused on the Gradual Release of Responsibility and high-yield instructional strategies that are based on research and student engagement. Participants will leave this collaborative session with strategies and activities that can be used to increase rigor, critical thinking skills, and collaboration.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shannon Manley

Dr. Shannon Manley

Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Dr. Shannon Manley taught English for over twenty years in Cumberland County Schools at the middle and high school levels, where she served as a department chair, mentor, professional development facilitator, Canvas trainer, and designed Canvas courses and curriculum for English IV... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C222
  English Language Arts

12:40pm EDT

Hispanic Family Support and Engagement
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D234
Limited Capacity seats available
This session highlights various efforts and ideas at the high school level to better support and engage Hispanic student populations and their families. With help from the Harnett Central High School Family Engagement Specialist, Giovanni Solera, and the new Hispanic Family Support Group, the HCHS Student Services team hopes to improve our Hispanic students and their families' overall success and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Osborne

Courtney Osborne

School Counselor
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D234
  Family Engagement

12:40pm EDT

Interactive Review games (get off the computer and get up and move)
FULL
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C235
Limited Capacity full
Get your students up and moving with interactive review games such as, Jeopardy, Trashketball, Taboo Vocab, The Unfair Game, Scoot, Head Shoulders Table Grab, etc. Learn various ways to make team groups, and get students excited to review content without the use of their computers.
Speakers
avatar for Kimberly Kisch
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C235
  Formative Assessment

12:40pm EDT

5 Strategies to Enhance Your Teaching in 2026
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C231
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will focus on 5 "tried and true" instructional strategies that can be used in any 6–12 classroom, regardless of content area.  Whether you're refining practices you've used for years or looking for fresh ideas to enhance your teaching, you'll leave with practical, research-based strategies that can strengthen your instructional toolbox.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Hinojoza

Rachel Hinojoza

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C231
  Instructional Strategies

12:40pm EDT

Anchor the Learning, Elevate the Thinking
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B228
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will explore how anchor charts can support learning in middle and high school classrooms by making complex thinking visible and providing students with a consistent visual reference point. Teachers will learn strategies for using anchor charts to differentiate instruction, scaffold challenging content, reinforce multi-step procedures, and promote student...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Kelli Crews

Kelli Crews

6th Grade ELA Teacher, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B228
  Instructional Strategies

12:40pm EDT

Marzano Mastery Approaches: Teaching Strategies
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C210
Limited Capacity seats available
Ready to energize your instruction and boost student achievement? Join us as we explore Marzano’s high-impact teaching strategies that engage learners, strengthen mastery, and make every lesson more effective. Walk away with practical, classroom-ready techniques you can use the very next day!
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson

Instructional Coach, Dunn Middle School
Jennifer Johnson is an experienced educational leader with more than 25 years in education, dedicated to improving teaching, learning, and student achievement. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles, teaching middle school Social Studies... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C210
  Instructional Strategies

12:40pm EDT

Small Shifts, Big Impact: Making Differentiation Practical
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C204
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore practical ways to move beyond “one-size-fits-all” instruction through intentional differentiation. This session focuses on strategies for adjusting content, process, and product to keep learning challenging, meaningful, and achievable for all students while supporting rigor, engagement, and growth across the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Martha Chandler

Martha Chandler

AIG Curriculum Specialist, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Wendy Nash

Wendy Nash

AIG Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C204
  Instructional Strategies

12:40pm EDT

Supporting Struggling Readers in ALL Content Areas
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C238
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will provide an overview of research-based approaches that benefit middle and high school struggling readers. Participants will explore how to support students using accelerated instructional strategies, and how to embed multiple accelerators into instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Abate
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C238
  Instructional Strategies

12:40pm EDT

Leading Through Excellence: A Teacher's Role in Safety, Instruction, and Achievement.
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
Auditoruim
Limited Capacity seats available
Mandatory: Sessions are available at 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 12:40 and 1:40
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Blackburn

Courtney Blackburn

Director, Harnett County Schools

Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
Auditoruim
  Mandatory

12:40pm EDT

Building Thinking Classrooms Style Instruction
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D211
Limited Capacity seats available
An introduction to the Building Thinking Classrooms model by Peter Lilljedahl. Increasing student conversation and interaction in small groups. Focus on math and math adjacent instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Patricia Shaffer

Patricia Shaffer

Teacher, Overhills High School
This year I will be teaching Math 1 first semester and Math 3 second semester. I would love to team up with some teachers and create a cross school PLC. 
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D211
  Mathematics

12:40pm EDT

Say More Than the Answer: Math Discourse That Works
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C206
Limited Capacity seats available
Get students talking- and thinking! This session will focus on practical strategies to build meaningful math discourse. Participants will explore structured routines and teacher moves that spark conversation and thinking. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use strategies to move students beyond answers to deeper understanding. Comment end
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Sturkie

Danielle Sturkie

District Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C206
  Mathematics

12:40pm EDT

Walls, Whiteboards, and Wonder
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C230
Limited Capacity seats available
Transform your math classroom with one simple shift: get students up and thinking. In this hands-on session, you’ll experience Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces in action, learn what makes tasks truly engaging, and leave with a ready-to-use activity that gets students talking, collaborating, and thinking deeply—starting tomorrow.
Speakers
DP

Diane Phillips

District Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C230
  Mathematics

12:40pm EDT

Aiming for Accomplished: A Deep Dive into NCEES
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B215
Limited Capacity seats available
We will take an in-depth look at the NCEES instrument, equipping teachers with a clear understanding of the behaviors, evidence, and artifacts that demonstrate Accomplished-level performance.
Speakers
avatar for Carol Blalock

Carol Blalock

Recruitment and Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Michelle Vuncannon

Michelle Vuncannon

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B215
  Professional Growth

12:40pm EDT

National Board Certification
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B221
Limited Capacity seats available


Do you want to learn how to earn more money while maximizing student learning? Research shows students taught by National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) achieve at higher levels, especially minority and low-income students. NBCTs are recognized as instructional experts and leaders—this session will guide you through the process and benefits of certification.
Speakers
avatar for Alisha Washington

Alisha Washington

Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
National Board Information
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B221
  Professional Growth

12:40pm EDT

Recognizing and Responding to Student Mental Health Needs
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B204
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will gain an overview of common student mental health concerns, including trauma, suicide risk, and self-harm. Participants will learn to recognize warning signs, respond using supportive and trauma-informed strategies, and follow district protocols to address student mental health needs appropriately and compassionately within the school setting.
Speakers
avatar for Jessalyn Pedone

Jessalyn Pedone

Student Support Services Coordinator/Mental Health Support Team Lead, Harnett County Schools
I'm passionate about all things social work and mental health and feel incredibly fortunate to do work that allows me to support others every day. Outside of work, you'll usually find me baking something sweet, exploring new destinations with my family, or making memories with the... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B204
  SEL

12:40pm EDT

Supporting Student Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Success
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B223
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores evidence-based strategies to foster student growth. Participants will learn to implement proactive interventions, embed social and emotional learning into daily routines. Participants will gain practical tools to manage classroom behaviors, support emotional regulation, and create a positive environment where every student can succeed.
Speakers
avatar for Natalie McCurley
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B223
  SEL

12:40pm EDT

Connection Before Content
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C216
Limited Capacity seats available
Connection Before Content will explore how to incorporate inquiry-based instruction into unit plans.
Speakers
avatar for Alicia Ferguson

Alicia Ferguson

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett High
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C216
  Student Engagement

12:40pm EDT

Mic Drop Moments: Using Discourse for Increased Student Engagement and Deeper Learning
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C213
Limited Capacity seats available
Boost student talk, collaboration, and critical thinking by designing purposeful student discourse opportunities. Explore how to set the stage with thinking and inking, and walk away with ready to use strategies that make talking a tool that sparks deeper student learning.
Speakers
avatar for Karen Parker

Karen Parker

Assistant Principal
avatar for Julia Greenstine

Julia Greenstine

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C213
  Student Engagement

12:40pm EDT

Teaching Beyond Compliance: Designing Classrooms Where Students Think, Talk, and Learn
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B224
Limited Capacity seats available


In today's distraction-filled world, engagement must be intentionally designed—not hoped for. Learn practical strategies for creating classrooms where students move beyond compliance to think critically, participate meaningfully, and take ownership of their learning.
Speakers
HM

Heather McCracken

Instructional Coach, Highland Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
B224
  Student Engagement

12:40pm EDT

Using Games in Secondary Classrooms
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D233
Limited Capacity seats available
Games are not just for elementary students! Learn about using games in secondary instruction– the research behind it, some of the benefits, and some realistic examples of how it can be effective, not just for review, but also for practice and assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Janel Gates
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D233
  Student Engagement

12:40pm EDT

Bridging the Gap: A Teacher's Guide to Section 504
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D213
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will describe and explain Section 504 policies and procedures. Learn about the laws that define the program, the process required for referrals and Eligibility Determinations, and creating effective 504 Accommodation Plans. Implementation of accommodations in the classroom setting as well as maintaining legal compliance will be explored while transforming the legal jargon into...
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Speakers
AC
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D213
  Student Support

12:40pm EDT

Seeing Success: Visual Schedules & Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D226
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will explore the importance of visual schedules and supports in promoting communication, independence, predictability, and positive behavior for students with autism and other diverse needs. Participants will learn practical strategies for implementing visual supports across classroom settings, review real-world examples, and leave with ready-to-use ideas to support student success...
See More →
Speakers
NW

Nada Werner

EC Coach
AS
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
D226
  Student Support

12:40pm EDT

Finding Calm in the Chaos
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C232
Limited Capacity seats available
Join us for a series of accessible movements and breathing exercises designed to bring calm and a quick reset to your hectic school day. Every practice can be done right from your desk, seated or standing—no extra equipment or change of clothes required!
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Deason

Michelle Deason

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Highland Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C232
  Teacher Wellness

12:40pm EDT

Time Management Tips
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C215
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers tend to struggle with managing their time between job responsibilities and home. These are tips to help teachers protect their mental and physical health by prioritizing work and home life responsibilities.
Speakers
AF

Ann Fennell

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 12:40pm - 1:30pm EDT
C215
  Teacher Wellness

1:40pm EDT

Mandatory Coaches Meeting
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
O-Zone
Limited Capacity seats available

Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
O-Zone
  Athletic Coaches

1:40pm EDT

Policies, Procedures, and Protocols, Oh My: Strategies to Begin the Year Strong
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D206
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation highlights strategies for establishing strong classroom management through clear policies, procedures, and protocols. It emphasizes building relationships, creating social contracts, defining expectations, assigning classroom roles, and implementing consistent routines to foster accountability, safety, communication, and student success from the start of the school year.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melody Simpson

Dr. Melody Simpson

Assistant Principal, Triton High School
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D206
  Classroom Management

1:40pm EDT

Responding with Purpose: Effective Behavior Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D221
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will equip educators with proactive and responsive behavior support strategies to create positive learning environments for all students. Participants will explore the function of behavior, effective intervention techniques, and practical classroom strategies that promote student engagement, self-regulation, and positive behavioral outcomes.
Speakers
CB
KD
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D221
  Classroom Management

1:40pm EDT

Start Strong: Building Routines & Procedures That Work
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B206
Limited Capacity seats available
Learn how establishing routines and procedures from day one creates structure, supports positive classroom management, and prevents common behavior challenges. This session will explore practical strategies, real-life classroom scenarios, and proactive measures to help build an organized, productive, and successful learning environment.
Speakers
avatar for Shelby Kana

Shelby Kana

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B206
  Classroom Management

1:40pm EDT

The New Teacher's Toolkit: Relationships, Routines, and Results
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C233
Limited Capacity seats available
Master the chaos with proactive strategies tailored for the secondary classroom. This session focuses on building authentic relationships, establishing high-leverage routines, and utilizing de-escalation techniques that preserve student dignity. Leave with a toolkit to create a structured, respectful, and high-achieving learning environment for grades 6-12.
Speakers
GR

Ginean Royal

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C233
  Classroom Management

1:40pm EDT

Access for All: Accommodations/Modifications for Diverse Learners
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D215
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will provide educators with practical strategies for implementing effective accommodations and modifications to support diverse learners in the classroom. Participants will explore the differences between accommodations and modifications, review real-world examples, and learn how to increase student access, engagement, and success while maintaining high...
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Speakers
AC

Amanda Curva

EC Coach
AH

April Hood

EC Director, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D215
  Differentiated Instruction

1:40pm EDT

Support without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B227
Limited Capacity seats available
Support Without Spoon-Feeding: Helping Struggling Learners Achieve explores how scaffolding and chunking can support struggling learners while maintaining high expectations. Participants will learn practical strategies to break down complex tasks, promote independence, and help students access grade-level content without reducing rigor.
Speakers
AW

Alena Williford

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B227
  Differentiated Instruction

1:40pm EDT

AI & the Science Geek AND The DOPE Educator Experience (GPT)
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D209
Limited Capacity seats available
DOPE Science Geek GPT helps K–12 educators design engaging, standards-aligned science instruction using the DOPE Framework, Building Engineers, and the Scientific Method. Teachers upload materials or lesson ideas to generate low/no-tech investigations, literacy and writing connections, spaced review plans, and purposeful AI-supported reinforcement using platforms like Diffit and Curipod. This...
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Speakers
avatar for Sid Lathan

Sid Lathan

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Throughout my career, I have maintained a consistent objective: to secure educational experiences that bring together strong instruction and technological innovation, particularly within economically restricted areas and communities. This mission reflects my lifelong commitment to... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D209
  Educational Technology

1:40pm EDT

Beyond Flashcards: Using AI to make vocabulary stick
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D228
Limited Capacity seats available
Looking for a new way to introduce vocabulary? Learn how to use AI to create personalized stories, reading passages, and activities that help students interact with new vocabulary before instruction even begins. Walk away with ready-to-use prompts and practical strategies that save time while increasing student engagement.
Speakers
CH
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D228
  Educational Technology

1:40pm EDT

Blending Traditional and Digital Learning with Wayground as the Hub
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B225
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover how to use Wayground to create rigorous, student-centered learning experiences that blend traditional instruction with digital tools. Explore strategies for differentiation, MTSS support, data-driven decision making, and time-saving workflows that improve student outcomes while making planning, assessment, and intervention more efficient.
Speakers
avatar for Susanna Eaker Hitt

Susanna Eaker Hitt

Teacher
My name is Susanna Hitt. I have been a teacher in Harnett for the last 11 years, and I have 20 years of combined experience in Illinois, Missouri, California, and North Carolina.  I have a BA in Social Science with a minor in Psychology.  I hold a Master's of Educational Leadership... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B225
  Educational Technology

1:40pm EDT

Ecosystems Over Islands: Building the Connected Classroom with Google Workspace
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B207
Limited Capacity seats available
What happens when the tools educators already use every day stop functioning like separate apps and start working together as one connected ecosystem? In this engaging Google Workspace-powered session, educators will explore practical strategies for using tools like Google Classroom, Gemini, NotebookLM, Slides, Gmail, and Drive to support teacher productivity, streamline workflows, and create more...
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Speakers
avatar for Christie Cloud

Christie Cloud

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
Christie Cloud is an Instructional Technology Facilitator in Harnett County, North Carolina and an adjunct professor at Thomas University. With 24 years in education, she’s passionate about empowering teachers through authentic and creative technology integration. A GaETC Rising... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B207
  Educational Technology

1:40pm EDT

Leveraging Google Classroom’s Newest Tools
FILLING
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B210
Limited Capacity filling up
Teachers will learn to implement Google Classroom to support standards-based instruction aligned with NCDPI priorities. Using tools like practice sets, quizzes, video activities, and rubrics, participants will streamline management, leverage data for formative assessment, and differentiate instruction to meet diverse student needs in all grades 6–12.
Speakers
avatar for Julie Carson

Julie Carson

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Julie C. Carson is an experienced Technology Facilitator and Instructional Leader with 28 years in public education. Her career reflects a deep commitment to helping educators and students thrive in a digital age by blending technology integration with strong instructional practices.Julie... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B210
  Educational Technology

1:40pm EDT

Tuning in Content Connection with Music using Suno AI and Brisk
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D212
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore the exciting world of AI-powered music creation in this interactive session designed for K-12 teachers. This session introduces educators to the innovative tools offered by Suno AI, a platform that simplifies music-making through artificial intelligence. Participants will gain hands-on experience as they create their own music masterpiece while discovering practical ways to integrate these...
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Speakers
avatar for Kalo Haslem

Kalo Haslem

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools
I am a Teaching professional with proven experience developing and implementing multidimensional lessons covering various topics and using various tools. Specifically skilled in integrating technology tools into the classroom to support content, improve 21st-century skills, and extend... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D212
  Educational Technology

1:40pm EDT

ELA Essentials: Engaging, Evidence-Based Practices for Effective Instruction
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C222
Limited Capacity seats available
E/LA teachers will receive best practices to implement in the classroom, focused on the Gradual Release of Responsibility and high-yield instructional strategies that are based on research and student engagement. Participants will leave this collaborative session with strategies and activities that can be used to increase rigor, critical thinking skills, and collaboration.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Shannon Manley

Dr. Shannon Manley

Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Dr. Shannon Manley taught English for over twenty years in Cumberland County Schools at the middle and high school levels, where she served as a department chair, mentor, professional development facilitator, Canvas trainer, and designed Canvas courses and curriculum for English IV... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C222
  English Language Arts

1:40pm EDT

Hispanic Family Support and Engagement
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D234
Limited Capacity seats available
This session highlights various efforts and ideas at the high school level to better support and engage Hispanic student populations and their families. With help from the Harnett Central High School Family Engagement Specialist, Giovanni Solera, and the new Hispanic Family Support Group, the HCHS Student Services team hopes to improve our Hispanic students and their families' overall success and...
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Speakers
avatar for Courtney Osborne

Courtney Osborne

School Counselor
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D234
  Family Engagement

1:40pm EDT

Interactive Review games (get off the computer and get up and move)
FILLING
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C235
Limited Capacity filling up
Get your students up and moving with interactive review games such as, Jeopardy, Trashketball, Taboo Vocab, The Unfair Game, Scoot, Head Shoulders Table Grab, etc. Learn various ways to make team groups, and get students excited to review content without the use of their computers.
Speakers
avatar for Kimberly Kisch
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C235
  Formative Assessment

1:40pm EDT

5 Strategies to Enhance Your Teaching in 2026
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C231
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will focus on 5 "tried and true" instructional strategies that can be used in any 6–12 classroom, regardless of content area.  Whether you're refining practices you've used for years or looking for fresh ideas to enhance your teaching, you'll leave with practical, research-based strategies that can strengthen your instructional toolbox.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Hinojoza

Rachel Hinojoza

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C231
  Instructional Strategies

1:40pm EDT

Anchor the Learning, Elevate the Thinking
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B228
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session will explore how anchor charts can support learning in middle and high school classrooms by making complex thinking visible and providing students with a consistent visual reference point. Teachers will learn strategies for using anchor charts to differentiate instruction, scaffold challenging content, reinforce multi-step procedures, and promote student...
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Speakers
avatar for Kelli Crews

Kelli Crews

6th Grade ELA Teacher, Western Harnett Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B228
  Instructional Strategies

1:40pm EDT

Marzano Mastery Approaches: Teaching Strategies
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C210
Limited Capacity seats available
Ready to energize your instruction and boost student achievement? Join us as we explore Marzano’s high-impact teaching strategies that engage learners, strengthen mastery, and make every lesson more effective. Walk away with practical, classroom-ready techniques you can use the very next day!
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Johnson

Jennifer Johnson

Instructional Coach, Dunn Middle School
Jennifer Johnson is an experienced educational leader with more than 25 years in education, dedicated to improving teaching, learning, and student achievement. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles, teaching middle school Social Studies... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C210
  Instructional Strategies

1:40pm EDT

Small Shifts, Big Impact: Making Differentiation Practical
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C204
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore practical ways to move beyond “one-size-fits-all” instruction through intentional differentiation. This session focuses on strategies for adjusting content, process, and product to keep learning challenging, meaningful, and achievable for all students while supporting rigor, engagement, and growth across the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Martha Chandler

Martha Chandler

AIG Curriculum Specialist, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Wendy Nash

Wendy Nash

AIG Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C204
  Instructional Strategies

1:40pm EDT

Supporting Struggling Readers in ALL Content Areas
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C238
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will provide an overview of research-based approaches that benefit middle and high school struggling readers. Participants will explore how to support students using accelerated instructional strategies, and how to embed multiple accelerators into instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Andrea Abate
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C238
  Instructional Strategies

1:40pm EDT

Leading Through Excellence: A Teacher's Role in Safety, Instruction, and Achievement.
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
Auditoruim
Limited Capacity seats available
Mandatory: Sessions are available at 8:30, 9:30, 10:30, 12:40 and 1:40
Speakers
avatar for Courtney Blackburn

Courtney Blackburn

Director, Harnett County Schools

Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
Auditoruim
  Mandatory

1:40pm EDT

Building Thinking Classrooms Style Instruction
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D211
Limited Capacity seats available
An introduction to the Building Thinking Classrooms model by Peter Lilljedahl. Increasing student conversation and interaction in small groups. Focus on math and math adjacent instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Patricia Shaffer

Patricia Shaffer

Teacher, Overhills High School
This year I will be teaching Math 1 first semester and Math 3 second semester. I would love to team up with some teachers and create a cross school PLC. 
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D211
  Mathematics

1:40pm EDT

Say More Than the Answer: Math Discourse That Works
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C206
Limited Capacity seats available
Get students talking- and thinking! This session will focus on practical strategies to build meaningful math discourse. Participants will explore structured routines and teacher moves that spark conversation and thinking. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use strategies to move students beyond answers to deeper understanding. Comment end
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Sturkie

Danielle Sturkie

District Instructional Coach, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C206
  Mathematics

1:40pm EDT

Walls, Whiteboards, and Wonder
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C230
Limited Capacity seats available
Transform your math classroom with one simple shift: get students up and thinking. In this hands-on session, you’ll experience Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces in action, learn what makes tasks truly engaging, and leave with a ready-to-use activity that gets students talking, collaborating, and thinking deeply—starting tomorrow.
Speakers
DP

Diane Phillips

District Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C230
  Mathematics

1:40pm EDT

Aiming for Accomplished: A Deep Dive into NCEES
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B215
Limited Capacity seats available
We will take an in-depth look at the NCEES instrument, equipping teachers with a clear understanding of the behaviors, evidence, and artifacts that demonstrate Accomplished-level performance.
Speakers
avatar for Carol Blalock

Carol Blalock

Recruitment and Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
avatar for Michelle Vuncannon

Michelle Vuncannon

Recruitment & Retention Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B215
  Professional Growth

1:40pm EDT

National Board Certification
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B221
Limited Capacity seats available


Do you want to learn how to earn more money while maximizing student learning? Research shows students taught by National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) achieve at higher levels, especially minority and low-income students. NBCTs are recognized as instructional experts and leaders—this session will guide you through the process and benefits of certification.
Speakers
avatar for Alisha Washington

Alisha Washington

Coordinator, Harnett County Schools
National Board Information
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B221
  Professional Growth

1:40pm EDT

Recognizing and Responding to Student Mental Health Needs
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B204
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will gain an overview of common student mental health concerns, including trauma, suicide risk, and self-harm. Participants will learn to recognize warning signs, respond using supportive and trauma-informed strategies, and follow district protocols to address student mental health needs appropriately and compassionately within the school setting.
Speakers
avatar for Jessalyn Pedone

Jessalyn Pedone

Student Support Services Coordinator/Mental Health Support Team Lead, Harnett County Schools
I'm passionate about all things social work and mental health and feel incredibly fortunate to do work that allows me to support others every day. Outside of work, you'll usually find me baking something sweet, exploring new destinations with my family, or making memories with the... Read More →
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B204
  SEL

1:40pm EDT

Supporting Student Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Success
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B223
Limited Capacity seats available
This session explores evidence-based strategies to foster student growth. Participants will learn to implement proactive interventions, embed social and emotional learning into daily routines. Participants will gain practical tools to manage classroom behaviors, support emotional regulation, and create a positive environment where every student can succeed.
Speakers
avatar for Natalie McCurley
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B223
  SEL

1:40pm EDT

Connection Before Content
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C216
Limited Capacity seats available
Connection Before Content will explore how to incorporate inquiry-based instruction into unit plans.
Speakers
avatar for Alicia Ferguson

Alicia Ferguson

Instructional Coach, Western Harnett High
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C216
  Student Engagement

1:40pm EDT

Mic Drop Moments: Using Discourse for Increased Student Engagement and Deeper Learning
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C213
Limited Capacity seats available
Boost student talk, collaboration, and critical thinking by designing purposeful student discourse opportunities. Explore how to set the stage with thinking and inking, and walk away with ready to use strategies that make talking a tool that sparks deeper student learning.
Speakers
avatar for Karen Parker

Karen Parker

Assistant Principal
avatar for Julia Greenstine

Julia Greenstine

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C213
  Student Engagement

1:40pm EDT

Teaching Beyond Compliance: Designing Classrooms Where Students Think, Talk, and Learn
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B224
Limited Capacity seats available


In today's distraction-filled world, engagement must be intentionally designed—not hoped for. Learn practical strategies for creating classrooms where students move beyond compliance to think critically, participate meaningfully, and take ownership of their learning.
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
B224
  Student Engagement

1:40pm EDT

Using Games in Secondary Classrooms
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D233
Limited Capacity seats available
Games are not just for elementary students! Learn about using games in secondary instruction– the research behind it, some of the benefits, and some realistic examples of how it can be effective, not just for review, but also for practice and assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Janel Gates
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D233
  Student Engagement

1:40pm EDT

Bridging the Gap: A Teacher's Guide to Section 504
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D213
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will describe and explain Section 504 policies and procedures. Learn about the laws that define the program, the process required for referrals and Eligibility Determinations, and creating effective 504 Accommodation Plans. Implementation of accommodations in the classroom setting as well as maintaining legal compliance will be explored while transforming the legal jargon into...
See More →
Speakers
AC
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D213
  Student Support

1:40pm EDT

Seeing Success: Visual Schedules & Supports
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D226
Limited Capacity seats available
Educators will explore the importance of visual schedules and supports in promoting communication, independence, predictability, and positive behavior for students with autism and other diverse needs. Participants will learn practical strategies for implementing visual supports across classroom settings, review real-world examples, and leave with ready-to-use ideas to support student success...
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Speakers
NW

Nada Werner

EC Coach
AS
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
D226
  Student Support

1:40pm EDT

Finding Calm in the Chaos
FULL
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C232
Limited Capacity full
Join us for a series of accessible movements and breathing exercises designed to bring calm and a quick reset to your hectic school day. Every practice can be done right from your desk, seated or standing—no extra equipment or change of clothes required!
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Deason

Michelle Deason

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Highland Middle School
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C232
  Teacher Wellness

1:40pm EDT

Time Management Tips
LIMITED
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C215
Limited Capacity seats available
Teachers tend to struggle with managing their time between job responsibilities and home. These are tips to help teachers protect their mental and physical health by prioritizing work and home life responsibilities.
Speakers
AF

Ann Fennell

Instructional Coach
Thursday August 6, 2026 1:40pm - 2:30pm EDT
C215
  Teacher Wellness
 

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