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Tuesday, July 15
 

10:20am CDT

Beginning Administrator Meeting
Tuesday July 15, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
Horner Hall
Speakers
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Tuesday July 15, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
Horner Hall Hot Springs Convention Center
  Human Capital

10:20am CDT

It's a HIT! Successes and Lessons Learned in High-Impact Tutoring
Tuesday July 15, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am 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
avatar for Amy Counts

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 →
Tuesday July 15, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Math, Literacy

11:40am CDT

Child Nutrition 101: Essential Insights for School Administrators
Tuesday July 15, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
This session provides school administrators with a high-level overview of key federal child nutrition programs, including the School Breakfast Program (SBP), the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), and Special Provision Options such as the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) and Provision 2. Participants will gain insights into program implementation, eligibility requirements, and strategies for maximizing participation while streamlining administrative processes.
Speakers
PB
avatar for Krista Jackson

Krista Jackson

Program Operations, Child Nutrition, ADE, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Krista Jackson is the Associate Director of Program Operations with the Child Nutrition Unit.  Ms. Jackson has 14 years of experience working in Child Nutrition. She currently trains, hires, and supports Area Specialist who administer the Administrative and Procurement Reviews in... Read More →
Tuesday July 15, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Cybersecurity

11:40am CDT

What's behind the score?: School Rating Revised Formula
Tuesday July 15, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
As educators, understanding that the A to F grading system serves as a vital tool for gauging school performance and driving improvement initiatives is critical. It is with great pleasure that ADE announces significant enhancements to this system, aimed at fostering a more simplified approach to assessing our schools' achievements.
Speakers
HW

Hope Worsham

Asst. Commissioner of Public School Accountability, DESE
Tuesday July 15, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

1:00pm CDT

He Came Back!...The Journey of a Second Year Principal
Tuesday July 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
He survived year one and came back for year two! Fresh from surviving the first year whirlwind, join us in reflecting on the second year journey and the delightful dilemma of "what comes next?" Join us as we unravel the wonders and unexpected wobbles of this pivotal phase. Did the overflowing inbox magically organize itself? Did the budget blossom with newfound funds? Or did new adventures in community politics and surprisingly complex copier malfunctions emerge? Come hear tales of growth and maybe just a tiny bit of glorious chaos as our seasoned (well, more seasoned) leader navigates the enchanting evolution from wide-eyed newbie to confident captain!
Speakers
BM
avatar for Tony Roach

Tony Roach

Principal, Helena West Helena School District
Hello everyone,As Principal Roach, I am thrilled to share a bit about myself and my first-year experience in this role. I have always been passionate about education and have dedicated my career to making a positive impact on students and staff members alike.My first year as a principal... Read More →
Tuesday July 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

1:00pm CDT

Meaningful Access for Students with Disabilities
Tuesday July 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session will provide an overview of the Arkansas Meaningful Access and Participation Project, which supports schools in ensuring all students, including those with disabiltiies, have access to high-quality core instruction. Participants will hear success stories from participating schools and explore key data trends, lessons learned, and the projcet's impact on improving student outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Adams

Jeff Adams

SSIP Coordinator, Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
avatar for Becky McIver

Becky McIver

SSIP Coordinator, DESE
Tuesday July 15, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Special Education

3:40pm CDT

Annual Ratings Through the Years
Tuesday July 15, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Annual ratings support teacher growth goals, identify outstanding teachers, and contribute to a comprehensive summative evaluation. Learn how the Educator Effectiveness System can support administrators in providing effective, evidence driven annual ratings.
Speakers
PP

Pearce Peacock

Evaluation State Support Specialist, DESE
avatar for Trent Saracini

Trent Saracini

Educator Support System Specialist, ADE - DESE
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Tuesday July 15, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

3:40pm CDT

Building Capacity in School-Wide Positive Behavior Supports: The Journey from THRIVE to BX3
Tuesday July 15, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Discover the evolution of school-wide positive behavior supports as we explore the journey from THRIVE to BX3. THRIVE Leader Academy focuses on collaboration, dta-driven decision making, and building effective multi-tiered systems of support for behavior and mental health. Through participating in the BX3 Project, building-level teams further develop these systems with coaching provided by the Arkansas Behavior Support Specialists to enahance capacity and sutainability. Join us as we hear from THRIVING Arkansans, Bryant Elemnentary, and their journey with THRIVE and BX3, highlighting both successess and challenges. Gain valuable insights on how to strengthen your school's approach to positive behavior supports, improve discipline strategies, and create a more supportive learning environment for all students.
Speakers
KE

Kameron Ervin

Bryant Public Schools
SH
AM

Angela Mask

Bryant Elementary
RS
avatar for Shelia Smith
Tuesday July 15, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Student Support
 
Wednesday, July 16
 

10:20am CDT

Driving Sustained Success: Effective Use of Monitoring and Accountability Tools
Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Leaders will explore how AR App goals—developed using current needs assessment data—shape educational systems, inform monitoring efforts, and strengthen accountability partnerships with DESE. By leveraging district resources to meet the identified areas for growth, leaders will ensure that all available tools and supports are maximized to address specific needs. On-site monitoring updates and data collection will be integral to tracking progress, identifying challenges, and ensuring continuous improvement. Staying informed on these critical initiatives will better position leaders to implement a continuous cycle of improvement, enhance educational quality, and effectively utilize monitoring as a tool for sustained growth and success.
Speakers
MS

Matt Sewell

Assistant Commissioner, DESE
Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

11:40am CDT

Teacher Growth and Trend Data
Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
How do you know if a teacher is positively impacting student growth? The Teacher Growth and Trend Data module provides evidence toward teacher and school effectiveness and support place student placement.
Speakers
avatar for Sharlee Crowson

Sharlee Crowson

Educator Effectiveness Special Projects Coordinator, DESE
Sharlee Crowson has been a part of the DESE Educator Effectiveness team since 2016. During that time, she has worked in educator preparation, teacher recruitment, and educator workforce data. 
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital

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
avatar for Amy Counts

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

11:40am CDT

Developing an Emergency Operations Plan
Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
A presentation on creating an emergency operations plan (EOP) for public schools using the DESE EOP template outlines essential steps for preparedness and response. Topics include risk assessment, communication strategies, evacuation procedures, and coordination with first responders. The Safe Schools Unit emphasizes proactive planning, staff training, and student safety to ensure a swift, organized response to various emergencies.
Speakers
avatar for Jerry Keefer

Jerry Keefer

Arkansas Safe Schools Director, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Prior to joining ADE, Keefer worked as a special agent in charge of the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office since 2020. During that time, he supervised various units including the Executive Protection Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Investigations Unit, and Digital Forensics... Read More →
avatar for Jason Weatherly

Jason Weatherly

Safe School Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education - DESE
Jason is an Arkansas native. He has over twenty-five years experience in construction, building inspections, and academic facilities. Before joining the Safe Schools Unit, Jason worked for ADE DPSAFT as a Facilities Project Manager where he reviewed and inspected construction projects... Read More →
Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, School Safety

11:40am CDT

Scheduling Simplified!
Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
This session will provide an overview of how scheduling works, the factors influencing course placement, and the collaborative efforts required to build a balanced, student-centered schedule.
Speakers
avatar for Echo Dickson

Echo Dickson

APSCN Field Analyst, Arkansas Dept of Education
LL
avatar for Lupe Peña de Martínez

Lupe Peña de Martínez

Director of Student Support Services, ADE-DESE
Lupe Peña de Martínez is a native of San Diego de Alejandria, Jalisco, México. Recently celebrating her 26-year anniversary as an Arkansan, having moved to the Natural State in July 1998, by way of California. Her husband, Adelso, is a native of Belize and they have a beautiful... Read More →
Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

11:40am CDT

Behavior Boost: Practical Tools to Empower Every Educator
Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
You don’t have to be a behavior expert to make a difference—just empowered with the right tools. This engaging presentation will equip educators with easy-to-use, research-based strategies to support positive student behavior. Attendees will leave with practical tools they can implement immediately to boost classroom success, build stronger relationships, and create a more positive learning environment for all students.
Speakers
avatar for Shelia Smith
Wednesday July 16, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Student Support

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
avatar for Patrick Sawatsky

Patrick Sawatsky

Perkins & Accountability Coordinator, DCTE
avatar for Sunni Teale

Sunni Teale

Operations Manager, DCTE
avatar for Ross White

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 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, CTE

1:00pm CDT

Beyond Diapers -The Reasons and Benefits of Serving Babies!
Wednesday July 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Find out which school districts are serving infant and toddler aged children; Serving infants and toddlers in school districts is a growing trend, and the reasons behind it are both practical and impactful. Research shows that early intervention during the first three years of life—when brain development is at its peak—can significantly enhance cognitive, social, and emotional growth. High-quality early childhood settings provide nurturing environments that foster these developments, setting a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Beyond developmental benefits, serving younger children can address broader community needs. For example, it supports working families by providing reliable care and education, and it helps identify and address developmental delays early, reducing the need for intensive interventions later. Additionally, programs like Early Head Start and similar initiatives ensure access to resources for low-income families.
Speakers
BI
avatar for Andrea Martin

Andrea Martin

Superintendent, Greenland School District
Dr. Andrea Martin currently serves as Superintendent for the Greenland School District, and has worked as a Title I paraprofessional, a Language Arts, ELL and Math Teacher and an Adult Education Teacher for the Danville School District.  Additionally, her experience includes working... Read More →
LM

Lisa McGhee

Southside School District
Wednesday July 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Early Childhood

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
avatar for Amy Counts

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 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, HQIM

2:20pm CDT

Clean Data Matters: SIS and SFA – Common Errors and Solutions
Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
This session will focus on the importance of maintaining clean data within both SIS and SFA systems. Participants will learn about common data errors, their impact, and practical strategies for identifying and correcting them. The session aims to equip administrators and data stewards with the knowledge needed to ensure data accuracy and support effective program management.
Speakers
JF

Jeffrey Fetters

School Performance Program Advisor, Arkansas Department of Education
avatar for Jill Johnson

Jill Johnson

APSCN Student Applications Manager, Arkansas Department of Education
Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Data

2:20pm CDT

School Safety and Security 101
Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
A presentation on best practices in public school safety and security, highlighting key strategies for ensuring a secure learning environment. Topics include emergency preparedness, threat assessment, access control, staff training, and student engagement. The Safe Schools Unit will discuss proactive measures, crisis response protocols, and collaboration with law enforcement to enhance school safety effectively.
Speakers
avatar for Jerry Keefer

Jerry Keefer

Arkansas Safe Schools Director, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education
Prior to joining ADE, Keefer worked as a special agent in charge of the Arkansas Attorney General’s Office since 2020. During that time, he supervised various units including the Executive Protection Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Investigations Unit, and Digital Forensics... Read More →
avatar for Jason Weatherly

Jason Weatherly

Safe School Coordinator, Arkansas Department of Education - DESE
Jason is an Arkansas native. He has over twenty-five years experience in construction, building inspections, and academic facilities. Before joining the Safe Schools Unit, Jason worked for ADE DPSAFT as a Facilities Project Manager where he reviewed and inspected construction projects... Read More →
Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, School Safety

2:20pm CDT

What's behind the score?: School Rating Revised Formula
Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
As educators, understanding that the A to F grading system serves as a vital tool for gauging school performance and driving improvement initiatives is critical. It is with great pleasure that ADE announces significant enhancements to this system, aimed at fostering a more simplified approach to assessing our schools' achievements.
Speakers
HW

Hope Worsham

Asst. Commissioner of Public School Accountability, DESE
Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability

3:40pm CDT

Maximizing Time & Meeting Standards: Smart Strategies for New Administrators
Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
New to administration? Learn what must be happening in your building to meet accreditation standards while maximizing student success. This session will cover essential requirements, creative RTI implementation, and strategies to make the most of your available time. Explore flexible scheduling options and innovative ways to blend subjects—math and science, literacy and social studies—to create engaging, interdisciplinary learning. Walk away with practical, grade-span-specific strategies to lead your school with confidence and creativity.
Speakers
avatar for Jeanie Johnson

Jeanie Johnson

Coordinator of Special Projects, DESE
As Coordinator of Special Projects for Public School Accountability, I bring a wide range of experiences to my role. I have 16 years of experience as a teacher, counselor, and administrator. In my unit, we work with districts to ensure compliance with State and Federal Laws, Rules... Read More →
avatar for Brooke McCain

Brooke McCain

Director of Monitoring & Accreditation, DESE
With 15 years in education, I’ve led efforts to support school improvement across districts of all sizes. As a state leader in accountability and accreditation, I’m focused on driving systems that promote excellence—through letter grades, graduation outcomes, and clear standards... Read More →
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability
 
Thursday, July 17
 

11:40am CDT

Annual Ratings Through the Years
Thursday July 17, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Annual ratings support teacher growth goals, identify outstanding teachers, and contribute to a comprehensive summative evaluation. Learn how the Educator Effectiveness System can support administrators in providing effective, evidence driven annual ratings.
Speakers
PP

Pearce Peacock

Evaluation State Support Specialist, DESE
avatar for Trent Saracini

Trent Saracini

Educator Support System Specialist, ADE - DESE
avatar for Andy Sullivan

Andy Sullivan

Director of Educator Effectiveness, DESE
Thursday July 17, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Human Capital, Educator Effectiveness

11:40am CDT

Harnessing the Power of AI: Creating Meaningful Access for Students with IEPs
Thursday July 17, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Creating meaningful access for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to thrive requires more than physical presence. It demands thoughtful (and sometimes challenging) adaptation and modification of curriculum and acitivities to ensure meaningful access and participation. This session explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can revolutionize the process of modifying student work, empowering educators to provide personalized support efficeitnly and effectively.
Speakers
JS
Thursday July 17, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Special Education

1:00pm CDT

Driving Sustained Success: Effective Use of Monitoring and Accountability Tools
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
Leaders will explore how AR App goals—developed using current needs assessment data—shape educational systems, inform monitoring efforts, and strengthen accountability partnerships with DESE. By leveraging district resources to meet the identified areas for growth, leaders will ensure that all available tools and supports are maximized to address specific needs. On-site monitoring updates and data collection will be integral to tracking progress, identifying challenges, and ensuring continuous improvement. Staying informed on these critical initiatives will better position leaders to implement a continuous cycle of improvement, enhance educational quality, and effectively utilize monitoring as a tool for sustained growth and success.
Speakers
MS

Matt Sewell

Assistant Commissioner, DESE
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Operations, Accountability
 
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