Empower EDU: Full Schedule

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8:00am EDT

Light Breakfast

Wednesday June 17, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT

TBA

Wednesday June 17, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
TBA

Breakfast

8:30am EDT

Day Two Opening

Wednesday June 17, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am EDT

Weaver Room

Wednesday June 17, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am EDT
Weaver Room

9:15am EDT

Beyond Choice: Teaching the Thinking Skills That Drive Student Agency

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT

Latham

Student agency doesn't happen automatically. When we give students choice without teaching the thinking skills that make that freedom meaningful, many don't know what to do with it. Self-directed learners ask meaningful questions, monitor their progress, reflect on their growth, set goals, and engage with feedback in ways that move their work forward. These habits can be explicitly taught.This hands-on workshop offers practical strategies for building the thinking skills behind learner agency. Drawing on real examples from a middle school honors English classroom, the session connects research-backed strategies to everyday classroom practice.Participants will also engage in a redesign activity, applying the five habits to a classroom assignment or project to increase student ownership and metacognitive thinking. Teachers are welcome to come with an existing assignment or project in mind, or simply come ready to engage.

Speakers

Lisa Barkley

Middle Grades AIG ELA Teacher and Instructional Coach, West Lincoln Middle/Lincoln County Schools

Over the past 20 years as an English Language Arts teacher, I have been continually drawn to approaches that place students at the center of their learning. I am especially passionate about fostering self-directed learners through instruction that integrates the arts, movement, and... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT
Latham

Workshop 1

9:15am EDT

Beyond the BluePrint: Deconstructing the Conditions for Innovation

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT

Revolution Room

This session will challenge leaders to shift their mindset and actively examine the environment for innovation. We'll engage in a focused, critical analysis of the current conditions and assumptions that either foster or impede progress, both at the district level and within the individual leader. We'll dive deep into key structural and cultural resources, asking: Does our district's tolerance for risk promote experimentation, or is the fear of failure paralyzing? This session will empower leaders to not only identify existing constraints but to strategically cultivate an environment where innovative practices flourish, ultimately leading to demonstrably improved student outcomes.

Speakers

Lindsay Lewis

SparkLab Leader, Wake County Public School System

Dr. Lindsay Lewis is a knowledgeable, driven, and experienced educator with a history of working in the K-12 setting, as well as higher education and private industry. Dr. Lewis started her career teaching high school science, and she left the classroom to pursue her PhD, which she... Read More →

Patricia Hilliard

Senior Director of District Leadership, SparkNC

Dr. Patricia Hilliard is the Senior Director of District Leadership for SparkNC. She is delighted to be part of a team that strives to rethink, reimagine, and redesign public education. Dr. Hilliard brings a depth of knowledge on educational equity, instructional design, and pedagogy... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT
Revolution Room

Workshop 1

9:15am EDT

Big Ideas, Little Learners: A Practical Guide to AI Literacy in K-5

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT

White Oak 3

How do we build AI literacy with the youngest learners in our schools, and where do we even begin? This hands-on workshop introduces educators to the AI4K12 initiative's Five Big Ideas in AI, a research-based framework that makes AI concepts accessible and teachable across grade levels. Participants will explore how the framework applies specifically to K–5 learners and examine practical strategies for bringing it to life in everyday instruction. Through unplugged, screen-free activities and teacher-designed lesson examples, attendees will experience how AI literacy can be woven into existing subjects rather than treated as a separate add-on. Whether you teach reading, science, or math, or support teachers who do, this session will give you concrete tools and a clear starting point for developing AI understanding in your youngest students. Participants will leave with classroom-ready activities, a cross-curricular planning guide, and a working knowledge of the AI4K12 framework they can share with their teams.

Speakers

Carrie Robledo

Teacher, Montgomery County Schools

Carrie Robledo is a 2nd grade teacher and teacher leader in Montgomery County Schools, where she also serves as a teacher leader on ElementaryAI, a NSF grant project in partnership with NC State University. She previously served as a Computer Science Research Scholar at the Friday... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT
White Oak 3

Workshop 1

9:15am EDT

Books, Bytes, and Beyond: Saying YES to All Kinds of Literacy for 6-12 Learners

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT

TBA

As literacy evolves, we say YES to both the enduring power of print—books, interactive read-alouds, and time-honored practices—and the possibilities of digital texts, multimodal storytelling, and creative tools that expand thinking and understanding. In this session, Kristin will share thinking strategies to enhance comprehension, communication, and critical thinking across print and digital texts. She’ll provide ready-to-use lessons that personalize learning, build background knowledge, grow vocabulary, and support deeper reading. She’ll show you how to tap students’ natural curiosity with print and digital resources, resulting in learners who are inspired and empowered to develop expansive literacy skills for today’s world.

Speakers

Kristin Ziemke

International Expert in Literacy, Inquiry and Technology, Ziemke Consulting, LLC

Kristin Ziemke is a lifelong teacher and curious learner who has worked in service to young people for more than two decades. Recognized internationally for her expertise in literacy, inquiry, and technology, she partners with educators and organizations worldwide to design learning... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT
TBA

Workshop 1

9:15am EDT

Hidden Gems: Unlocking the Power of Productivity & Differentiation with Gemini Gems

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT

White Oak 1

Educators often juggle the demands of lesson planning, differentiation, and productivity—leaving little time to design fresh resources for every learning need. Enter Gemini Gems: a powerful AI tool that allows teachers to build reusable templates and tap into premade Gems for instructional and organizational support.This interactive session will have participants explore how Gems can streamline productivity while unlocking opportunities for differentiation. Users will generate task cards and rubrics to customize premade Gems, such as Storybook, for multiple reading levels, and attendees will discover practical ways to adapt content for diverse learners with just a few clicks. Whether creating reusable planning templates, engaging student choice boards, or quick formative assessments, Gems offer a flexible, time-saving solution for the classroom.Participants will leave with hands-on experiences exploring Premade Gems, designing their own Gem, and strategies for tailoring Gems to meet student needs. Before they leave, participants will have a collection of ready-to-use ideas that can be adapted across grade levels and subject areas.

Speakers

Juliette Kuhn

Instructional Design Coach, Wake County Public School System- Magnet Office

Juliette Kuhn is an Instructional Design Coach with Wake County Public School System, supporting magnet schools through innovative curriculum development and integration of design thinking practices. Juliette has served in a variety of roles over the 28 years in education, including... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT
White Oak 1

Workshop 1

9:15am EDT

STEM on the Go

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT

Proximity 2

STEM on the GO is a dynamic, mobile learning experience designed to bring science, technology, engineering, and mathematics directly to students wherever they are. This hands-on program encourages curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving through engaging, real-world STEM challenges.What makes STEM on the GO truly special is that middle school students lead the learning. Empowered as mentors and station facilitators, they guide local elementary students through interactive activities, model leadership skills, and help younger learners explore STEM concepts in fun and meaningful ways.Elementary students rotate through a variety of student-led stations, working collaboratively to design and test solutions while discovering how STEM connects to their everyday lives. The experience supports critical thinking, teamwork, and a growth mindset—igniting excitement for STEM across grade levels.

Speakers

Jennifer Blake

Teacher, McDowell County Schools, Foothills Community School

I am a passionate educator with 21 years of experience. As a National Board Certified educator, I am committed to providing students with a strong foundation in math while fostering a love for learning. Believing that every student has the potential to succeed, I tailor lessons to... Read More →

Sandra Gunter

Teacher, McDowell County Schools, Foothills Community School

I feel so blessed to be serving the families at FCS! Excellent teachers along the way fostered my learning and encouraged me to follow my dreams. I aim to pay it forward and encourage everyone to discover and follow their passions! I hold Bachelor's degrees in both Aerospace... Read More →

Katie McFarland

School Counselor, Foothills Community School/McDowell County Schools

I was grateful to start as the Counselor at FCS in February of 2021! Before I was at FCS, I worked as a teacher assistant/bus driver in Rutherford County for 4 years. I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Appalachian State University and my Master’s in School Counseling... Read More →

Tosha Ramsey

Teacher, Foothills Community School

This is my fifth year at Foothills Community School. Before becoming a teacher, I worked as an accountant and HR Manager for over 20 years. I earned my associate's degree from Isothermal Community College and my bachelor's degree from Gardner-Webb University. My husband is also... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT
Proximity 2

Workshop 1

9:15am EDT

Using Micro-Credentials to Provide Professional Development for Special Educators Seeking National Board Certification

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT

White Oak 2

The rural special education workforce faces unique challenges, from geographic isolation to limited professional development resources. This session explores a current initiative funded by the Appalachian State University Department of Labor Grant, designed to bolster teacher retention and expertise in rural North Carolina.We will begin with a high-level overview of the grant’s mission to strengthen the educator pipeline. The core of the presentation will then pivot to a practical application of the grant’s goals: the development of a micro-credentialing framework. Attendees will learn how we are deconstructing the rigorous National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) process into manageable, bite-sized achievements. By "stacking" these credentials, we provide rural educators with a clear, attainable roadmap to certification, effectively lowering the barriers to entry for advanced professional recognition.Learning ObjectivesBy the end of this session, participants will be able to:Identify the specific systemic challenges facing special education recruitment and retention in rural Appalachian communities.Understand the design and implementation of a micro-credentialing system tailored to the NBCT standards.Evaluate how modular professional development can be used to support high-stakes certification goals in under-resourced areas.

Speakers

Takiyah McCathern

Assistant Principal, Wilkes County Schools

Takiyah McCathern is a seasoned education leader with over 20 years of experience in special education and administration. She currently serves as an assistant principal, where she has led successful school turnaround efforts, improving student outcomes and boosting teacher retention... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 9:15am - 10:30am EDT
White Oak 2

Workshop 1

10:30am EDT

Break

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am EDT

TBA

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:30am - 10:45am EDT
TBA

Break

10:45am EDT

Generative AI: Completing the Picture with Critical Thinking

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Latham

There is so much excitement about AI in education. But what is "AI"? What is "generative AI"? What if the discourse isn't answering those fundamental questions?What if the researchers and academics studying linguistics and Large Language Models aren't listened to?In this session, we will complete the generative AI picture by injecting balance and critical thinking. Learn what the experts are telling us about harms, limits, and what any pedagogue needs to know.

Speakers

Tom Mullaney

Educational Consultant, Tom Mullaney Educational Consulting

Tom Mullaney (he/him) has taught for twelve-plus years in the classroom and worked with teachers as an instructional coach and PD consultant for ten years. He shared his practice at SXSW EDU, the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS), and ISTE, and wrote the TEDEd French... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
Latham

Session 1

10:45am EDT

Incoperating SDL into Whole School Improvement

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

Revolution Room

In this session, participants will explore how self-directed learning and student agency can be leveraged to support Tier 2 and Tier 3 students with behavioral needs. Grounded in practical strategies and real-world application, this workshop will highlight ways to shift students from compliance-based models to ownership-driven growth, increasing engagement, accountability, and long-term behavioral success.Participants will also examine how to embed self-directed learning practices into instructional coaching cycles. Emphasis will be placed on aligning these practices with professional development plans, school improvement goals, and MTSS frameworks to ensure consistency and sustainability across classrooms and teams.Attendees will leave with actionable tools, reflection protocols, and implementation strategies that can be immediately applied to support both student behavior outcomes and teacher growth.

Speakers

Jennifer Correll

Assistant Principal, Wilkes County

This is my 18th year in the Field of Education. I have spend the last five as an Instructional Specialist, as well as an Assistant Principal.

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
Revolution Room

Session 1

10:45am EDT

Learning, Unlocked: A Journey into Self-Directed Classrooms

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

TBA

Discover the power of Self-Directed Learning (SDL) to boost student engagement! Based on units developed in the Innovation Cohort, this interactive session walks you through a model SDL lesson. You’ll step into your students' shoes to experience a guided self-assessment and an abbreviated choice board, learning firsthand how these tools empower students to take ownership of their learning paths. Along the way, we’ll break down our pedagogical design choices and share real classroom observations demonstrating the significant spike in engagement we’ve seen since bringing SDL into our own rooms.

Speakers

Rebekka Dugger

8th grade ELA teacher, North Wilkes Middle/Wilkes County Schools

I teach 8th grade standard ELA and one section of English 1 to advanced and gifted learners. I have taught for 18 years and recently became National Board certified in ELA. I have been with the ETL program since its inception in 2022.

Emily West-Dula

6th Grade ELA/SS Teacher, Central Wilkes Middle/Wilkes County Schools

I teach 6th-grade English Language Arts and Social Studies. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in K-6 Elementary Education from Appalachian State University and bring a decade of teaching experience to the classroom. I have been with the ETL program for the past 2 years.

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
TBA

Session 1

10:45am EDT

Making Micro-credentials Work For You

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

TBA

Learn what a Micro-credential is and how it will benefit your teaching. I want to share my experience as a physical education teacher. As a non-core teacher, finding meaningful professional development can be difficult. Learn how micro-credentials give you agency in your learning, allowing you to focus on your areas of need. Micro-credentials move us from a one-size-fits-all approach to discovering where we can grow as teachers. I want to share what micro-credentials are not, for example, they're not a quick fix to fill your CEU needs. They require buy-in from teachers and, in turn, create lasting impact. Discover how micro-credentials have benefited me as a physical education teacher. Strategies that helped me discover which micro-credentials to complete, along with tips and tricks to be successful. If time allows, we will explore Digital Promise and how to successfully navigate the website. My goal is for teachers and stakeholders to understand the impact Micro-credentials have had on my teaching and the long-term benefits that other types of traditional professional development could not easily fulfill.

Speakers

Hope Mough

physical education teacher, Bethel, Watauga County Schools

I am Hope Mough, the physical education teacher at Bethel. This is my 8th year teaching, and all 8 have been at Bethel. I teach at a small rural school, and we currently have about 110 students, Kindergarten through 8th grade. I have participated in the ETL program through Appalachian... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
TBA

Session 1

10:45am EDT

Math with Ownership: Shifting Students from Passive to Powerful Learners

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

TBA

In many math classrooms, students are doing the work but not truly owning their learning. In this session, I will share how I intentionally shift my 8th grade Math and Math 1 classroom from a teacher-led environment to one where students take an active role in problem solving, discussion, and decision making.Participants will experience and explore practical strategies that build learner agency in math, including structured collaboration, meaningful problem-based tasks, and opportunities for student choice. I will share real classroom routines, examples, and scaffolds that support students in becoming more confident, independent thinkers while still maintaining rigor and alignment to standards.This will not be a sit-and-get session. Attendees will engage in a model activity, reflect on their own practice, and leave with concrete strategies they can implement immediately to increase engagement and shift ownership of learning to their students.

Speakers

Kaylah Blount

Math Teacher, Lenoir County Public Schools/ Rochelle Middle School

I am an 8th grade Math and Math 1 teacher who is passionate about helping students build confidence and independence in mathematics. I focus on creating a classroom environment where students are actively engaged in problem solving, making connections, and taking ownership of their... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
TBA

Session 1

10:45am EDT

Ready to Credential?: How to Prepare Your Institution for STEM Microcredential Implementation

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT

White Oak 1

This session will be of interest for anyone that is just beginning their institutional implementation and development of STEM microcredentials. In this session, you will be introduced to the CREDO Process which was created to support early-stage institutional readiness for STEM microcredential development. The session will walk you through the process and attendees will have the opportunity to reflect on how this process could be implemented in their local contexts.

Speakers

Rob Moore

Assistant Professor, Educational Technology, University of Florida

Dr. Rob Moore is an Assistant Professor of Educational Technology at the University of Florida and Director of the IDEATE Research Lab in the Institute for Advanced Learning Technologies. His research examines the design and implementation of semi-formal learning environments as digital... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am EDT
White Oak 1

Session 1

11:45am EDT

Lunch

Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT

TBA

Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
TBA

Lunch

12:30pm EDT

Beyond the Screen: Designing for Agency, Balance, and Deeper Learning

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT

TBA

Schools are under pressure to respond to concerns about screen time, but minutes alone do not tell the story. This session helps educators and leaders move beyond outdated binaries and toward a more useful question: what kinds of digital experiences develop agency, critical thinking, belonging, and well-being? Participants will explore how to evaluate digital media use through instructional purpose, cognitive engagement, equity, and student ownership. Grounded in the OECD Learning Compass, NC Portrait of a Graduate and classroom practice, this session offers a future-ready framework for making better decisions about technology use in learning.

Speakers

Brian Whitson

Piedmont-Triad Digital Learning Consultant, NCDPI

Brian, an ISTE certified educator, is the Digital Teaching & Learning Consultant for the Piedmont Triad Region at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. He served as an instructional design coach, technology facilitator, and STEM/science teacher in Rowan-Salisbury Schools... Read More →

Stacy Lovdahl

Western Digital Learning Consultant, NCDPI

Stacy Lovdahl has 24 years of experience as a state and district-level education technologist. She is an AI literacy trainer, the Western DTL Consultant for NCDPI, an Instructional Technology Facilitator and a formal middle school science teacher. Stacy has coached teachers and facilitated... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT
TBA

Workshop 2

12:30pm EDT

Everyone Loves Choices!

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT

TBA

This presentation will begin with my experience with micro-credentials and self directed learning, and we will dive into learning about the implementation of the use of choice boards in the classroom. We will learn about what a choice board looks like, with a few examples provided, and we will create a choice board during the session! Come ready to learn more about student agency and why it is so important at any grade level and come ready to create a lesson that can be used in your classroom!

Speakers

Chelsie Eldreth

Middle School CTE Teacher, Bethel & Valle Crucis School / Watauga County Schools

My name is Chelsie Eldreth and I am a middle school Career & Technical Education teacher in Watauga County, North Carolina. I have been teaching for over 11 years and I love to expose my students to new ideas with hands-on learning. I graduated from Appalachian State University with... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT
TBA

Workshop 2

12:30pm EDT

Hidden Gems: Unlocking the Power of Productivity & Differentiation with Gemini Gems

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT

TBA

Speakers

Jennifer Melton

STEM and Advanced Studies Coach, Zebulon Magnet Middle School

Jennifer Melton is an experienced educational leader and presenter with a passion for innovative teaching, instructional design, and meaningful learning experiences. She is dedicated to supporting educators through practical strategies, collaboration, and the thoughtful integration... Read More →

Juliette Kuhn

Instructional Design Coach, Wake County Public School System- Magnet Office

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT
TBA

Workshop 2

12:30pm EDT

Learning Without Limits: Empowering Teacher Learning, the TDPL Model, & Building Self-Directed Learners

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT

TBA

Join us for an overview of the Empowering Teacher Learning project and the framework that made it a success with educators throughout western North Carolina. In this workshop, we will reflect on the accomplishments of this five-year investment in teacher-directed professional learning (TDPL) across rural western North Carolina. What began with a pilot year shaped by pandemic disruptions has grown into a dynamic, research-informed model centered on teacher agency, coaching, and competency-based micro-credentials. Over the course of the project, teachers have expressed strong appreciation for the ETL model’s support of the re-professionalization of teaching. We welcome you to apply our micro-credential, Introducing Self-Directed Learning to Students, in your own classrooms!

Speakers

Sherry Paddie

Learning in the Professions Navigator, Appalachian State University

Sherry is a former K-12 Special Education, English Language Arts, and Drama Teacher who spent most of her teaching career in the middle school grades. After teaching, she shifted her attention to social services where she was the administrator of a food bank and Lead Advocate at a... Read More →

Jessie Peterson

Navigator for Learning in the Professions, Appalachian State University

Dr. Jessie Peterson is a Navigator for Learning in the Professions in the Office of Rural Promise Appalachian State University. She is also an Adjunct Instructor of Music at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. She holds a Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning from Clemson University, an M.M... Read More →

Janet Johnson

Finance and Compliance Manager, Appalachian State | Office of Rural Promise

Janet is a licensed CTE Business and Marketing teacher with 15 years of classroom experience. She currently serves as the Finance and Compliance Manager for Learning in the Professions and the GREAT STEM Project. In May 2024, she earned a Master of Arts in Online Engagement and Communication... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT
TBA

Workshop 2

12:30pm EDT

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT

TBA

Teachers don’t need more strategies. They need a shift in structure. This session models how to move from teacher-directed instruction to student-driven learning through phenomena, engineering practices, and a strategic use of AI while still honoring standards and accountability. This session will give attendees tools to shift from compliance laden classrooms to limitless learning environments.

Speakers

Marsha Sirkin

The Science House - Coastal Satellite Office Director, The Science House

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT
TBA

Workshop 2

12:30pm EDT

Tough Love- How to Manage Behavior While Building Relationships and Respect

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT

TBA

We all want to create a classroom that is engaging while also maintaining behaviors that allow for learning. Love and Logic is the perfect method to get this done. In this session, participants will be introduced to tried-and-true methods that can be implemented in the classroom tomorrow. They will have an opportunity to practice these methods as well as work to update/change their classroom rules and procedures to better align with this methodology.

Speakers

Erin Leatherman

Teacher/Lead Teacher, McDowell County Schools

Erin is currently in her 19th year of teaching English Language Arts. This is her 16th year in middle school, and she has taught every grade level from 7th to 12th grade. She also serves as a Lead Teacher in her school and district. She is a current participant in the Rural Teacher... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm EDT
TBA

Workshop 2

1:45pm EDT

Break/snack

Wednesday June 17, 2026 1:45pm - 2:00pm EDT

TBA

Wednesday June 17, 2026 1:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
TBA

Break

2:00pm EDT

Backpack Books: Bringing Books to Every Student, No Matter the Budget

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

TBA

What if every student had a “backpack” filled with books they could access anytime, anywhere? In this session, we’ll explore practical, budget-friendly strategies for expanding access to high-quality texts for all learners. From free digital libraries to creative classroom solutions, you’ll discover how to remove barriers and ensure every student has meaningful reading opportunities.You’ll also see how Google Gemini can be used to generate personalized “backpack books” and read-alouds tailored to students’ identities, interests, and experiences. By creating custom stories that act as mirrors and windows, educators can ensure every learner sees themselves reflected in what they read while also exploring new perspectives. Whether you’re working with limited resources or looking to reimagine literacy through AI, you’ll leave with ready-to-use ideas that make reading more inclusive, engaging, and accessible for all.

Speakers

Lindsey Sipe

Southwest Regional Consultant, NC DPI

Lindsey Sipe brings over 18 years of expertise in digital teaching and learning, beginning her career as an elementary school teacher before moving into a leadership role at the district office for one of the largest urban school districts in the nation. Currently serving in the role... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

Session 2

2:00pm EDT

From Compliance to Self-Direction: Democratizing Learning for Agency, Mobility, and Opportunity

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

TBA

From Compliance to Self-Direction: Democratizing Learning for Agency, Mobility, and OpportunityThe U.S. learning ecosystem was largely designed for standardization, sequencing, and compliance—optimizing for scale in an industrial-era model of education. While this system expanded access, it positioned learners primarily as participants in predefined pathways rather than active agents in shaping their own learning journeys. Today, this model is increasingly misaligned with the rate of technological change and a labor market that demands adaptability, continuous skill development, and the ability to navigate complex career pathways.This session explores a paradigm shift from compliance-based learning to self-direction as a foundational design principle (Boyer, 2020). Drawing on the International Society for Self-Directed Learning’s definition (2020), self-direction is framed not as an individual trait, but as a system-enabled capacity—one that can be intentionally designed for and supported at scale.We examine how three critical enablers—personalized learning pathways, competency-based frameworks, and digital credentials—collectively provide levers for enhancing and cultivating environments that embrace self-directed learning. Personalization allows learning experiences to adapt to individual goals and contexts, in real time, with relevance and meaning; competency frameworks make skills explicit, measurable, and tied to mastery rather than seat time; and digital credentials (both degree and non-degree based) render those skills visible, portable, and actionable across education and employment systems.Together, these elements shift learning from static pathways to dynamic navigation, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their education and careers. This transformation has significant implications for social mobility, enabling more equitable access to opportunity by equipping learners with the tools to understand, articulate, and leverage their skills in a rapidly evolving economy.Participants will leave with a conceptual framework for designing self-directed learning ecosystems and practical insights into how institutions, employers, and intermediaries can operationalize this shift.Additional citations and references available as required.

Speakers

Naomi Boyer

President, NOME Solutions

Dr. Naomi R. Boyer is an educational strategist and nationally recognized leader in workforce innovation, digital transformation, and adult learning systems. With more than two decades of experience spanning nonprofit leadership, higher education, and cross-sector workforce ecosystems... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

Session 2

2:00pm EDT

Getting Started with Letting Go

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

TBA

We will discuss and review different strategies for slowly incorporating agency into your instruction in order to promote more self-directed learning in your classroom.

Speakers

Allen Ingram

Middle School Social Studies, Watauga County Schools, Valle Crucis

Learner Agency, primarily an overview of SDL and how to gradually allow the traditional classroom teacher control of instruction to transition to more student driven and student created paths of learning.

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

Session 2

2:00pm EDT

Grant a Wish: Transforming Curriculum Design with AI

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

TBA

Are you looking for standards alignment, inquiry-based design, and student agency all built into units? Curriculum Genie can grant that wish by harnessing AI to help educators build brand-new lesson plans and full units, or revise existing ones, in minutes, with built-in support for North Carolina learning standards and Portrait of a Graduate competencies. Come explore how smart prompting can generate and refine differentiated, self-directed learning experiences that meet students where they are and move them forward.

Speakers

Heather Gerbus

Media Coordinator, East Forsyth Middle School

With over 20 years in middle school education, I've worn a lot of hats — ELA and social studies teacher, instructional technology facilitator, and now media coordinator. I believe strongly in inquiry-based and self-directed learning, and that getting students hands-on with their... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

Session 2

2:00pm EDT

Leading Professional Growth: Microcredentials that Drive Differentiation

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

TBA

In this session, we’ll explore how school leaders can leverage digital tools such as Curriculum Genie, CommonLit, and Project PBL to support microcredentialing and strengthen teacher capacity in differentiation across core subject areas. Aligned with our school-wide PDP goal of differentiation, participants will learn how to guide and encourage teachers as they earn targeted microcredentials that recognize their growth in designing personalized and engaging learning experiences for every student.We’ll also highlight how strategies like brag tags can motivate staff, celebrate progress, and create a culture where professional growth is visible and valued. Participants will leave with practical ideas, digital resources, and practical strategies to implement microcredentialing within their schools—empowering teachers to refine their practice while making professional learning engaging, meaningful, and impactful.

Speakers

Leslie Pope

Assistant Principal, Watauga County Schools

Leslie Pope is an accomplished educator with over 22 years of experience and currently serves as a high school assistant principal. She previously held roles as a classroom teacher, Instructional Coach, Media Coordinator, and District Instructional Technology Facilitator, demonstrating... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

Session 2

2:00pm EDT

Leveraging the Arts: Effective Arts Integration for Social-Emotional Learning

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

TBA

This session highlights a competency-based micro-credential offered through the Office of Rural Promise titled “Leveraging the Arts to Identify and Characterize Emotions.” Participants will explore how creative expression can be intentionally designed to strengthen emotional vocabulary, support social-emotional development, and improve learner engagement.Attendees will review the structure of the micro-credential, including the supporting research base, clearly defined outcomes, and evidence requirements that ensure measurable application of skills. The session will also examine how performance-based artifacts and reflection are used to demonstrate competency rather than seat-time completion.Participants will leave with adaptable lesson frameworks, practical templates, and clear “do’s and don’ts” for effective arts integration. Emphasis will be placed on designing learning experiences that are human-centered, competency-driven, and scalable across diverse learning environments.

Speakers

Melanie Watson

Band Director, Starmount Middle School, Yadkin County Schools

Melanie H. Watson has served as the Band Director at Starmount Middle School in Northwestern North Carolina since 2022. During her time at Starmount, Melanie has seen a 50% increase in students involved in the band program and was recognized as Starmount Middle’s Teacher of the... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

Session 2

2:00pm EDT

Write Together: A Cohort Model for Creating Teacher-Authored Micro‑Credentials

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

TBA

Are you ready to harness the expertise of a professional learning community to create competency-based micro-credentials for teacher professional development? Join us to learn how the Empower Teaching Learning research project equips and supports teachers in transforming their content-area knowledge and classroom experience into high-impact micro-credentials through a scaffolded research, writing, and peer review process.

Key takeaways include:

Developing a structured project plan and workflow that result in polished products mapped to educator interest and district focus
Unpacking the conventions of micro-credential writing and design
Providing support for subject matter experts in research best practices
Building community through a positive peer review process

Speakers will share tips and tools for bridging skill gaps and applying feedback for continuous improvement and capacity-building. Attendees will leave with adaptable examples, templates, and a research‑informed process model that they can implement to develop meaningful, peer-driven professional development with the potential for expansive reach.

Speakers

Tyrel Winebarger

Assistant Director - Research and Evaluation, Appalachian St University

Erin West

Assistant Director, Learning in the Professions, Appalachian State Empowering Teacher Learning

Heather Childress

Micro-credential Coordinator and ETL Navigator, Appalachian State, Empowering Teacher Leaning Grant

Heather Childress supports the self-directed professional learning of middle school teachers in western North Carolina through the Empowering Teacher Learning Project at Appalachian State University.
She holds North Carolina Department of Public Instruction licensure in Academically/Intellectually Gifted (K-12), Middle Grades Language Arts (6-9), and English (9-12), as well as National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Certification in Early Adolescence/English Language... Read More →

Jason Snyder

Research Support Specialist, Appalachian State Empowering Teacher Learning

Dr. Jason Snyder has an educational background in Geography and Applied Economics focused primarily on food systems both domestically and abroad, and has spent the past four years as an instructor in the Department of Sustainable Development at Appalachian State. While new to the... Read More →

Wednesday June 17, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
TBA

Session 2

3:00pm EDT

Empower EDU Closing

Wednesday June 17, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT

TBA

Wednesday June 17, 2026 3:00pm - 3:30pm EDT
TBA

Closing

8:00am EDT

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