ADE Summit 2025: Full Schedule

arrow_back View All Dates

10:20am CDT

(Con)CURRENTLY Speaking

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT

As the landscape of concurrent enrollment continues to evolve, it’s critical to move beyond outdated information and align on what’s next. While best practices vary widely across institutions, success ultimately hinges on effective communication and strong partnerships. During this panel discussion, we will help to clarify common misconceptions, explore enrollment, registration, and placement through a student affairs lens, and emphasize how relationship-building is the key to navigating the changing concurrent enrollment environment.

Speakers

Mason Campbell

Assistant Director for Policy and Student Success, Arkansas Division of Higher Education

Alisha Lewis

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Division of Higher Education

Alisha Lewis began service to the Arkansas Department of Higher Education in March 2017 where she serves as the Associate Director of Communications. Through Arkansas State Transformation, her role transitioned to Chief Communication Director for the new encompassing Department... Read More →

Kimberly Long

Kisa Morman

K-12 Math Program Manager, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education

A native of Little Rock, Kisa Morman is a dedicated K-12 Math Public School Program Manager with 24 years of experience in education. Her vision is to elevate math by ensuring students master numeracy skills, experience effective interventions, and foster STEM innovation through problem-solving... Read More →

Krystal Nail

Director, Office of GT & AP, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Connie Poteet

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, CTE

10:20am CDT

Enhancing Quality and Child Outcomes Through High-Quality Instructional Materials in Early Childhood

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT

TBA

High-quality instructional materials play a critical role in shaping young children's learning experiences and developmental outcomes. This session will explore how evidence-based, developmentally appropriate materials support early cognitive, social-emotional, and language development. Participants will gain insights into selecting and implementing instructional materials that align with best practices in early childhood education. Through discussion and real-world examples, we will examine how these materials enhance classroom engagement, promote equitable learning opportunities, and contribute to positive child outcomes. Educators, administrators, and early childhood professionals will leave with practical strategies for integrating high-quality instructional resources into their programs to maximize learning success.

Speakers

Alicia Atwood

Pre-K RISE Specialist, Arkansas Department of Education

Lori Bridges

Director of Early Childhood Programs, Arkansas Department of Education

Kelly Haley

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, HQIM, Early Learning

10:20am CDT

Leading with AI: Tools to Empower School Administrators

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT

TBA

This interactive session is designed specifically for school and district administrators seeking to harness the power of artificial intelligence in their daily work. Participants will explore real AI tools that can streamline communication, automate routine tasks, support data-driven decision-making, and improve staff productivity. No technical expertise required—just bring a device and discover how AI can work for you behind the scenes.

Speakers

Brooke Singletary

Tyra Hobson

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, AI

10:20am CDT

Oral Language is Key to Comprehension (K-2)

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT

TBA

Many children benefit from explicit instruction in the language strands associated with comprehension, including inferencing. Participants will analyze a text and learn some interactive instructional routines and activities that will boost their students’ oral language skills to lead to better reading comprehension.

Speakers

Margie Gillis

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

10:20am CDT

The Writing Revolution: Explicit Writing Instruction in Service of Learning

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT

TBA

There is a Writing Revolution happening in Arkansas! To connect the science of reading to writing, DESE is excited to partner for a fourth year with a team from The Writing Revolution (TWR) to offer a synchronous course called Advancing Thinking Through Writing I for all content teachers in grades K-12. This high-quality professional learning (HQPL) introduces participants to the Hochman method, an explicit set of sequenced strategies for teaching expository writing that can be integrated into any content. In this session, participants will receive an overview of Hochman Method writing strategies along with ways to leverage writing in every grade and content area. Participants will learn about this through-year professional learning opportunity which will be provided by DESE to districts this fall at no charge.

Free copies of the book, The Writing Revolution, will be available while they last.

Speakers

Serena White

Director of State and District Partnerships, The Writing Revolution

Implementation of The Writing Revolution

Alex Chalonec

A former teacher, Alexandria is currently Co-Director of Academics at The Writing Revolution. In collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Education, Alexandria led an initiative working with educators to embed the Hochman Method into the state’s ELA curriculum for grades 3... Read More →

Kiersten Peltier

Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

11:40am CDT

Inside Work-Based Learning: From Learning to Earning

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT

TBA

This session takes a closer look at Work-Based Learning (WBL) in Arkansas, highlighting how it equips students with real-world skills while helping businesses develop a strong talent pipeline. Participants will hear from a student who shares how WBL shaped their career path and provided practical experience beyond the classroom. The session will also feature insights from a business and industry partner, demonstrating the value of WBL in meeting workforce needs and building connections with future employees. Join us for an inside look at how WBL is preparing Arkansas students for success.

Speakers

Amanda Porter

Ross White

State CTE Director, Arkansas Department of Education

Ross White, Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), brings a wealth of CTE experience and knowledge to the division. Before serving as vice principal at Siloam Springs High School, a position he has held since July 2019, White was the director of the school’s CTE program... Read More →

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, CTE

11:40am CDT

It's a HIT! Successes and Lessons Learned in High-Impact Tutoring

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT

TBA

In this session, participants will gain a comprehensive overview of high-impact tutoring data for math and literacy from the 2024-2025 school year. We will explore the various tutoring programs implemented across the state, focusing on key metrics such as frequency, dosage, attendance, and assessment data. Participants will also hear firsthand from district representatives who have each implemented different tutoring models—whether in-person, virtual, or asynchronous—and gain insights into what they believe is crucial for a successful tutoring program. The session will conclude with an introduction to the tools and resources available to districts currently implementing high-impact tutoring initiatives.

Speakers

Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education

Since 2003, I have worked in K-12 education in Massachusetts, Texas, Maryland, and Arkansas. During that time, I have worked in both rural and urban school districts, teaching students in fifth to twelfth grade. In 2019, I joined the Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education... Read More →

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Math, Literacy

Tag Beginning Administrator

11:40am CDT

Key Levers for Instructional Leaders: Strengthening Science Instruction Through Observation and Feedback

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT

TBA

In this session, participants will explore observation trends in science classrooms through the lens of five key instructional levers for leaders: Structures for Learning, Aligned Content, Direct Instruction, Student Practice, and Assessment/Differentiation. Attendees will examine how these impact areas shape student learning and engagement while learning innovative strategies to enhance student discourse and shift the cognitive lift from teacher to student.

Speakers

Katie Chacon

Science Program Manager, Arkansas Department of Education

Sarabecca Mgalle

Director, TNTP

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Science

Tag TLC

11:40am CDT

The Power of Sleep: A Game-Changer for Learning and Life

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT

TBA

Does sleep really matter? Absolutely—and this session will show you why. Discover how quality sleep transforms learning, health, and daily performance for both students and educators. Learn to assess sleep needs, adopt strategies for better rest, and unlock the incredible benefits of a good night’s sleep. You’ll leave with practical tools to improve well-being in and out of the classroom.

Speakers

Eric Saunders

Associate Deputy Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Dr. Eric Saunders serves as the Associate Deputy Commissioner for District Operations at the Arkansas Department of Education. With over 25 years in education, his leadership experience spans nearly every level of the K–12 system—from classroom teacher and coach to superintendent... Read More →

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Brain Science

11:40am CDT

Teaching and Learning Collaborative: Strengthening System and Instructional Coherence Through High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) and High-quality Professional Learning (HQPL)

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 1:10pm CDT

Horner Hall

System and instructional coherence don’t happen by chance—they are intentionally built through aligned leadership, shared vision, and the thoughtful use of high-quality instructional materials and professional learning. In this collaborative session, district curriculum leaders will explore how leveraging HIQM and HQPL can serve as powerful conduits for supporting teachers, aligning instruction to standards, and ensuring consistent, grade-level learning experiences across classrooms. Participants will examine real-world examples, engage in cross-district dialogue, and reflect on strategies to build coherence from the district office to the classroom. Leave with a clearer roadmap for using materials not just as resources but as catalysts for instructional transformation.

Speakers

Jamila Newman

Vice President of Transformation, TNTP

As Vice President of Transformation, Jamila Newman strengthens the quality of TNTP’s work in the field and drives the learning, codification, and ongoing knowledge management that supports our client-facing teams. Prior to this role, Jamila served as a Senior Partner, leading a... Read More →

Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 1:10pm CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center

Instruction, Lunch & Learn

Tag TLC

1:00pm CDT

3E Blueprint: Building Pathways to Enrollment, Enlistment, and Employment

Wednesday July 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

TBA

This interactive session provides an in-depth overview of the three pillars of Success-Ready Pathways—Enrollment, Enlistment, and Employment (3E). Attendees will explore how each pathway prepares students for postsecondary success and gain insights into best practices for supporting students in meeting pathway requirements. Through facilitated discussion and collaborative think-tank activities, school leaders will have the opportunity to brainstorm innovative strategies and develop actionable plans to expand completion avenues for each pathway. Join us as we explore ways to strengthen pathways that ensure all students leave high school ready for their next step.

Speakers

Patrick Sawatsky

Perkins & Accountability Coordinator, DCTE

Sunni Teale

Operations Manager, DCTE

Ross White

State CTE Director, Arkansas Department of Education

Wednesday July 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, CTE

Tag Beginning Administrator

1:00pm CDT

Cheating or Innovating? Rethinking Academic Integrity in an AI-Driven World

Wednesday July 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

TBA

Artificial intelligence is reshaping education—but is it a threat to academic integrity or a tool for deeper learning? As AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini become commonplace, educators face a critical challenge: How do we uphold academic honesty without stifling innovation?

In this interactive session, we’ll explore how Virtual Arkansas is tackling AI-driven academic integrity and rethinking traditional approaches to plagiarism and assessments. But AI isn’t just changing how students work—it’s also becoming a powerful assistant for teachers. From streamlining feedback to enhancing lesson planning, AI can support educators in creating more meaningful, engaging learning experiences.

Join us as we move beyond “catching cheaters” to fostering ethical AI use, designing smarter assessments, and leveraging AI as a partner in education. Expect practical strategies, real-world examples, and a fresh perspective on AI as both a student tool and a teacher ally. Leave with actionable insights to transform AI from an academic integrity dilemma into an opportunity for growth!

Speakers

Paula McDougald

Lead Course Design Specialist, Virtual Arkansas

Paula McDougald joined Virtual Arkansas in 2015 as a high school math teacher and transitioned to the design department in 2018. Now the Assistant Director of Design and Development, she manages course design projects and oversees organizational branding. With 17 years in education... Read More →

Samantha Carpenter

Arch Ford ESC- Virtual Arkansas, Arch Ford ESC- Virtual Arkansas

Samantha Carpenter is the Core Campus and Adjunct Principal at Virtaul Arkansas. With 17 years of experience as an educator, she has spent the most recent as an administrator at Virtual Arkansas. She has taught on both the higher-ed and secondary level, and courses taught include... Read More →

Brooke Suyal

Wednesday July 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, AI

1:00pm CDT

Mystery League

Wednesday July 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

TBA

Offered by DESE in partnership with AR IDEAS, this session introduces educators to Mystery League and its accompanying resources. Participants will explore how to use the episodes to enhance social studies instruction and promote community engagement in the K-4 classroom. Discover creative ways to integrate this engaging series into your curriculum and inspire young learners to connect with their communities through inquiry-based learning.

Speakers

Jessica Saum

Collaboration and Inclusion Coordinator, 2022 Arkansas Teacher of the Year, Cabot Public Schools

Jessica Saum is a special educator, author, military spouse and is the 2022 Arkansas Teacher of the Year. Jessica previously worked as a self-contained special education teacher in Cabot, Arkansas and is known not only for her excellence in the classroom but for her advocacy work... Read More →

Sajni Kumpuris

Director of Education, Arkansas PBS

Sajni Kumpuris is the Director of Education at Arkansas PBS. Since joining ARPBS in 2019, Kumpuris has led several initiatives in partnership with the Arkansas Department of Education, including Rise and Shine, AR AMI, and ArkansasIDEAS, which produces teacher professional development... Read More →

Wednesday July 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Social Studies

2:20pm CDT

Integrating the Writing Revolution Across K–12 Math, Science, and Social Studies

Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT

TBA

Discover how The Writing Revolution (TWR) strategies can transform instruction beyond the ELA classroom. This session will showcase real examples of TWR in action across various subjects and grade levels, including high school. Educators and administrators will see firsthand how structured writing techniques can strengthen student thinking, comprehension, and communication in disciplines like science, social studies, and math. Whether you're new to TWR or looking to expand its impact, this session offers a practical glimpse into its versatility and effectiveness—helping you envision how it could benefit schools or districts.

Speakers

Serena White

Director of State and District Partnerships, The Writing Revolution

Implementation of The Writing Revolution

Alex Chalonec

Kiersten Peltier

Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

2:20pm CDT

Supporting Accelerated Learning with Cambridge Education Programs

Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT

TBA

Explore the power of accelerated learning with a deep dive into Cambridge Advanced International Education programming. This session will introduce educators and administrators to the wide array of programs offered by Cambridge International, including the prestigious Cambridge Advanced curriculum and the globally recognized AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) Diploma. Discover how to implement these high-rigor opportunities in your school to enhance student learning and support postsecondary pathways in employment, enrollment, and enlistment. Learn how Cambridge programs can be a key driver in personalized success plans and academic excellence.

Speakers

Joette Viggiano

Joette Viggiano, School Development Manager for the Southeast U.S. with Cambridge, has 16 years of educational experience which began with teaching Cambridge Lower Secondary Science. With a bachelor’s degree in Biology and a master’s degree in Administration and Supervision, her... Read More →

Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Accelerated Learning

2:20pm CDT

Tying It All Together: The Science of Reading for Students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT

TBA

How can children with limited or no auditory access learn to read a language primarily based on sounds? This session features research-based strategies that are aligned with Science of Reading principles to target the unique learning styles and abilities of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and includes engaging resources you can use with all of your students to support literacy and language development.

Speakers

Stacey Tatera

Deaf Education Specialist, CAYSI Project Director, Arkansas Department of Education

Working together with Arkansas Schools to EDUCATE & CELEBRATE students who are Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing, wherever they learn 🤟

Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy, Special Education

2:20pm CDT

Unlocking the Power of Curriculum-Based Professional Learning

Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT

TBA

This session will explore two years of Curriculum-Based Professional Learning (CBLP) data collected from over 60 districts. Learn about CBPL, begin to assess your readiness level for CBPL, and learn about the Arkansas Professional Learning Partner Guide (AR PLPG). Representatives from participating districts will talk about their experience with through-year coaching for their literacy curricula across the K-12 grade spans.

Speakers

Amy Counts

Director of Curriculum Projects, Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education

Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, HQIM

Tag Beginning Administrator, TLC

3:40pm CDT

Accelerated Learning- Opportunites, Systems, and Priorities

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT

TBA

This session will explore strategies for expanding accelerated learning opportunities for students within your school. Participants will examine key considerations related to designing and implementing effective systems, aligning priorities, and creating broader access to advanced coursework. The discussion will focus on how schools can intentionally build and sustain opportunities that support high achievement and meaningful postsecondary pathways for all learners.

Speakers

Krystal Nail

Director, Office of GT & AP, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education

Kiffany Pride

Assistant Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Kiffany Pride currently serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Learning Services for Arkansas’ Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). With 27 years of experience, Dr. Pride has recently served as the Director of Curriculum and Assessment and RISE Assessor for the... Read More →

Ross White

State CTE Director, Arkansas Department of Education

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Accelerated Learning

3:40pm CDT

AI in Action: Real-World Use Cases for School Administration and Curriculum Planning

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT

TBA

Explore practical applications of AI in K-12 education through compelling stories from school leaders. Learn how AI is streamlining administrative tasks, enhancing curriculum development, and improving district planning. Discover actionable insights and resources to help your district leverage AI effectively.

Speakers

Adam Musto

Director of Computer Science Education, Arkansas Department of Education

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, AI

3:40pm CDT

Busting Brain Myths

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT

TBA

Join us on a fascinating journey to discover the truth behind some common myths about how the brain works. These misconceptions can sometimes lead to less effective teaching and wasted effort. In this session, we'll learn how to tell the difference between scientific facts and popular myths, making sure our teaching methods are based on real brain science. Let's work together to ensure our students get the best education possible, grounded in accurate and reliable information!

Speakers

Eric Saunders

Associate Deputy Commissioner, Arkansas Department of Education

Busting Brain Myths Notes and Citations pdf

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Brain Science

3:40pm CDT

Implementing The Writing Revolution: Insights from Arkansas Educators - A Panel Discussion

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT

TBA

Join a panel of Arkansas teachers and administrators who are actively implementing The Writing Revolution (TWR) strategies in their schools. Facilitated by TWR experts, this session will provide an honest discussion of the successes, challenges, and lessons learned in integrating structured writing instruction across various grade levels and subjects. Panelists will share practical strategies for effective implementation and guidance on how other districts and schools can adopt TWR practices to enhance student writing outcomes. Whether you're just exploring TWR or looking to refine your approach, this session offers valuable insights and actionable steps to support student success.

Speakers

Amber Pirnique

Disciplinary Literacy Program Manager, Arkansas Department of Education

Currently serving as Disciplinary Literacy Program Manager for DESE, Amber Pirnique began her education career in 1999 in Waxahachie, Texas, graduating with degrees in secondary education: History and English. She taught in the Dallas Fort Worth area and in rural Missouri. Before... Read More →

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy

3:40pm CDT

Oral Language is Key to Comprehension (3rd – 5th Grade)

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT

TBA

Speakers

Margie Gillis

Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA

Instruction, Literacy