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Tuesday, July 15
 

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

10:20am CDT

Syntax: A Multi-Tool for Reading Comprehension and Writing
Tuesday July 15, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
William van Cleave reminded us that “syntax matters” in reading and writing instruction. What makes syntax a multi-tool? Syntactic knowledge enables students to improve semantics, reading comprehension, and written expression. Syntax should be explicitly taught, focusing on function and connected to content. In this session, participants will learn how to systematically teach syntax to improve reading comprehension and written expression. The focus is the function of words in sentences and not about memorizing parts of speech.
Speakers
ME
Tuesday July 15, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

2:20pm CDT

Leveraging Morphological Awareness for Vocabulary and Comprehension
Tuesday July 15, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
Morphemes are the building blocks of meaning, tools for decoding, and critical structures for syntax. They are truly mesmerizing units of language that, when taught explicitly, can improve students' reading comprehension and written expression. This session will review why and how we should teach to build morphological awareness. Spoiler alert: It’s not about memorizing morphemes!
Speakers
ME
Tuesday July 15, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

3:40pm CDT

Key Levers Tool for Leaders - Comprehension
Tuesday July 15, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
In this session, participants will explore observation trends in literacy classrooms through the lens of five key instructional levers for leaders: Structures for Learning, Aligned Content, Direct Instruction, Student Practice, and Assessment/Differentiation. Participants will walk away with a deeper understanding of key "Look Fors" in literacy instruction and strategies for teaching comprehension to support grade level reading.
Speakers
TH

Tieal Hollimon

Senior Effectiveness Coach, TNTP
avatar for Sandy Shepard
Tuesday July 15, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

3:40pm CDT

Understanding the Decoding Threshold for Reading Success
Tuesday July 15, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
Unlock the science behind early reading success by diving into the concept of the Decoding Threshold. In this session, participants will explore research-based insights into how reaching a critical level of decoding accuracy transforms reading comprehension and fluency outcomes for students. We will highlight Magpie’s collaboration with Little Rock School District (LRSD) and Lighthouse Charter Schools, where intentional focus on achieving the Decoding Threshold led to measurable gains in literacy.
Tuesday July 15, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy
 
Wednesday, July 16
 

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
MG
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
SW

Serena White

Director of State and District Partnerships, The Writing Revolution
Implementation of The Writing Revolution
avatar for Alex Chalonec

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 →
KP
Wednesday July 16, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

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

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
SW

Serena White

Director of State and District Partnerships, The Writing Revolution
Implementation of The Writing Revolution
avatar for Alex Chalonec

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 →
KP
Wednesday July 16, 2025 2:20pm - 3:20pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

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
avatar for Stacey Tatera

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

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
avatar for Amber Pirnique

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
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
MG
Wednesday July 16, 2025 3:40pm - 4:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy
 
Thursday, July 17
 

10:20am CDT

K-2 Screening: Creating Profiles of Dyslexia and Other Reading Difficulties
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Early identification is key to effective intervention. In this session, educators will explore how to use K–2 screening data to create detailed learner profiles that highlight potential signs of dyslexia and other reading difficulties. Participants will examine key indicators from universal screeners, learn to interpret patterns in student performance, and discuss how to differentiate between various reading challenges. Practical strategies for documenting observations, collaborating with specialists, and communicating with families will also be shared. This session is ideal for classroom teachers, literacy coaches, and support staff committed to early literacy success.
Speakers
DT
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

10:20am CDT

Promising Practices: Innovative Interventions Solutions
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
Education Renewal Zone, Springdale School District, and the University of Arkansas will share their experience in how they successfully partnered to implement high dosage tutoring during the school day. We will share our strategy on implementing best practices for key areas including: scheduling, training, support, progress monitoring, and tutor recruitment.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsey Calhoun

Lindsey Calhoun

Director, Education Renewal Zone, ERZ: University of Arkansas
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:20am - 11:20am CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Math, Literacy, Science

11:40am CDT

Local Lead Spotlight - Using Data to Drive Foundational Literacy Development in Preschool
Thursday July 17, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
In this session, early childhood programs will share how data-driven instruction can enhance early literacy development in preschool classrooms. By leveraging assessment tools, observational data, and progress monitoring strategies, early childhood educators can identify individual student needs, tailor instruction, and create engaging literacy experiences that support language development, phonological awareness, and foundational literacy skills. Participants will learn practical approaches for collecting and analyzing data, setting developmentally appropriate goals, and using insights to guide learning experiences that foster a strong foundation for kindergarten readiness and lifelong literacy success. This session is ideal for pre-k educators, administrators, and early childhood professionals seeking to make informed decisions that support every child's literacy journey.
Speakers
avatar for Saundra Lamberson

Saundra Lamberson

State Science Specialist, DESE-Learning Services
CS

Chrissy Sain

Local Leads, Northeast Arkansas Educational Cooperative
Thursday July 17, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy, Early Learning

11:40am CDT

Powerful Strategies to Maximize the Impact of Small Group Instruction
Thursday July 17, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
Small group instruction is one of the most important times of the literacy block, yet many educators use instructional levels to determine group composition. This session will focus on how to use the foundational reading assessment subskills to effectively differentiate instruction. Participants will understand how to align instruction to the outcomes of their progress monitoring tool, how often they should change instruction, and how to quickly determine what students in kindergarten through fifth grades need during small group instruction.
Speakers
PM
Thursday July 17, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy

1:00pm CDT

Tailoring Instruction: Differentiation and Intensification for Early Literacy Support
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
This session will focus on using K–2 screening data to differentiate instruction for struggling readers. Educators will explore adapting routines and key components—phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—based on student profiles. Participants will learn to adjust intensity, pacing, and interventions for diverse needs, with a focus on flexible, responsive routines. Ideal for K–2 teachers, literacy coaches, and support staff, this session provides strategies for enhancing early literacy success.
Speakers
MG
DT
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
TBA
  Instruction, Literacy
 
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