ELEVATE! Dallas 2026 - Conference Brochure

C o n f e r e n c e G u id e

www.elevateyourclassroom.com

Who We Are At Elevate, we bring together innovative educators to nurture every child’s potential through researchinformed learning. Our interactive sessions inspire professional growth and empower educators to create engaging, inclusive classrooms where all students thrive.

Founded in Research

Next Day Implementation

Vetted Speakers

All ELEVATE conference sessions are based on research and/or evidence-based content and practices, and guaranteed to be presented in a way that engages attendees in hands-on activities and models instructional best-practices.

Every session you attend will provide you with lesson ideas and activity resources that you can take back to your classroom and use immediately!

At ELEVATE, we set the bar high!

All presenters are required to support their presentation content with current research, model best-practice instructional methods, incorporate active-engagement strategies within their sessions, and provide complementary lesson plans/activities for attendees to take back and use immediately in their classrooms.

IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

PRESENTING PARTNER

CHARITY PARTNER

GOLD PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNERS

BRONZE PARTNERS

3

Topics Covered at Elevate Dallas Science of Reading

English Language Arts

Math

Writing

Science

Social Studies

The Arts

CrossCurricular

Play-Based Social Emotional Fine Motor Learning Learning

Data-Driven Instruction

Classroom Management

School Leadership

School Culture

Student Engagement

Access & Opportunity

Community & Belonging

FEATURING our keynote speakers MR. GR

@kindergartensm EG orgasboard

ANG JERE CnH ggifted @mscha

and our special guest BROWSKI JOE DOM o m br o w s ki @joe_d

MICHAEL BO NNER @michaelbonn

er _

NN RTMA mc A H K JAC hartmannk @jack

www.elevateyourclassroom.com

JOIN US IN DALLAS, TX!

Join us as we take teaching to new heights!

G ay lor d T ex an

150 1 Ga ylo rd Tr ail Gr ap ev ine , TX 76 05 1

We have discounted room rates!

Limited rooms available so be sure to book your room as soon as possible.

Ticket 2-for-1 Full Access Passes Full-Access Pass Full-Access Tickets at the Door

BOOK HOTEL

Dates

Price

For a Limited Time

pe r tic ke t!

Limited Tickets Available

$400

Until SOLD OUT

$600

$300

DID YOU KNOW...

WE ACCEPT PURCHASE ORDERS! TO REGISTER BY P.O.

PO FORM

IMPORTANT INFO Complete our online form in it's entirety. (to be completed by 1 person for the entire PO) Upload your actual PO using the link provided on the form. If you do not have your PO yet, STOP and get it completed.

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QUESTIONS, EMAIL US AT CONTACT@ELEVATEYOURCLASSROOM.COM DOWNLOAD OUR W9 - CLICK HERE

S C H E D U L E

Join us as we take teaching to new heights!

G ay lor d T ex an

150 1 Ga ylo rd Tr ail Gr ap ev ine , TX 76 05 1

SUNDAY, JUNE 21ST 1pm - 3pm

Pre-Conference: ABC Bootcamp

4pm - 6pm

Registration

6pm - 7:15pm

Opening Keynote

MONDAY, JUNE 22ND 8:00am

Announcements

8:15am - 9:15am

Keynote

9:45am - 10:45am

Breakout Sessions

11:00am - 12:00pm

Breakout Sessions

12:00pm - 1:15pm

Lunch (on your own)

1:15pm - 1:45pm

Partner Session

2:00pm - 3:00pm

Breakout Sessions

3:15pm - 4:15pm

Breakout Sessions

6:00pm - 8:00pm

Party

TUESDAY, JUNE 23RD 8:00am

Announcements

8:15am - 9:15am

Keynote

9:45am - 10:45am

Breakout Sessions

11:00am - 12:00pm

Breakout Sessions

12:00pm - 1:30pm

Lunch (on your own)

1:30 - 2:30pm

Breakout Sessions

2:45 - 3:45pm

Closing Keynote with Mr. Greg

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND ELEVATE Join a growing community of over 100k primary educators who follow Elevate Your Classroom and co-founder Mr. Greg Smedley-Warren.

Learn from award-winning and nationally recognized classroom educators and educational leaders who remain practitioners in schools across the country.

Participate in conference sessions founded in research and created with the teacher in mind.

Enjoy keynotes and inspiration from nationally renowned educators Specific administrator sessions so school and district leaders can support the work you are doing.

Network and stay connected with fellow primary educators and leaders as you experience a worldclass conference that will provide immediate takeaways for your classroom.

Opportunity to continue your learning after the conference by joining Elevate! Academy for a full year of online, on-demand professional development.

What You Get at Elevate!

O v e r tw o d a y s o f li v e ly a n d e n r ic h in g s e s s io n s a c r o ss c o n te n t a r e a s

te for C e r t if ic a H o u r s ct 1 2 C o n t a s s io n a l of Profe ment D e v e lo p

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A gi an t ve nd or ha ll fo r yo u to le ar n ab ou t th e lat es t pr od uc ts an d se rv ice s fo r yo ur cla ss ro om an d pe rs on al we ll- be in g

An E levat Your Class e T-Sh room irt

T im e t o and cha meet t p r e s e n t e w it h rs a n d d is c o f u t u r e in u n t s f o r -pe a n d v ir t u r s o n al E le v a t e events!

Dallas Keynote

The Drawers We Pull From: Handles, Same Lessons TheNew Drawers We Pull From

By Greg Smedley-Warren | Keynote

GREG SMEDLEY-WARREN

d @kindergartensmorgasboar

In this laugh-out-loud, tear-up-a-little, glitterfilled keynote, Mr. Greg dives headfirst into The Drawers We Pull From: Finding Magic, Mess, and Meaning in Teaching. Spoiler alert: some of those drawers are organized, some are a hot mess, and one might still have a melted crayon from 2013.

Greg reminds us that teaching is equal parts chaos and joy. It's a celebration of the everyday magic teachers create—and a love letter to the weird, wild, and wonderful world of education.

About Greg Meet Greg Smedley-Warren, affectionately known as “Mr. Greg,” an experienced, current kindergarten educator and the creative mind behind The Kindergarten Smorgasboard. With an impressive 19-year teaching journey, Greg’s expertise spans various grade levels, including a brief stint in fifth grade and two years in second grade. However, it was a reluctant transition to kindergarten that unveiled his true passion and calling.

Never wanting to teach kindergarteners, Greg’s journey took a turn when he discovered an instant connection on the very first day of kindergarten.

From that moment on, he knew kindergarten was his calling. Beyond the classroom, Greg is a family man, cherishing moments with his loved ones in Nashville, Tennessee. Alongside his husband Jason, fondly referred to as “The Mister,” Greg shares his home with their daughter, Adelynn, and their dog, Dolly.

Recognized as the 2014 Teacher of the Year, Greg’s influence extends far beyond his classroom walls, as an international speaker, presenter, and co-founder of the ELEVATE! conference for teachers. A passionate curriculum developer, Greg’s dedication to educational excellence shines through in all his endeavors, driven by his unwavering commitment to empowering both students and fellow educators alike.

Dallas Keynote

Joe Dombrowski The Drawers We Pull From About Joe

BROWSKI JOE DOMm browski @joe_do

Recently named one of Variety’s Top 10 Comics to Watch, Detroit native Joe Dombrowski first caught the world’s attention in 2017 with a viral April Fools’ Day spelling test prank that led to multiple appearances on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Don’t get it twisted, though—it takes 20 years to be an overnight sensation! Joe’s been performing stand-up since his third-grade talent show, and he hasn’t stopped since.

Today, Joe tours internationally with material that highlights his marriage, being a new dad, his accidentally hilarious parents and unforgettable years as an elementary school teacher. His comedy has been featured on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal, the New York Comedy Festival, and Netflix Is a Joke Fest.

Joe is also the co-host of the hit live comedy/game show My Straight Friends, running monthly at The World Famous Comedy Store in Los Angeles and Emerald City Comedy Club in Seattle. Off stage, he co-hosts the podcast Social Studies with Netflix reality star and fellow teacher, Gaspare Randazzo. Joe currently resides in Seattle, Washington where he hopes to run for Mayor sometime. And

by Mayor he means PTA president.

Dallas Keynote

Michael Bonner The Drawers We Pull From About Michael

ER MICHAEL BONN _ @michaelbonner

Michael Bonner is a renowned leader, innovator, and performance booster, who is a trailblazer in leadership development and organizational culture. He is a dynamic keynote speaker as seen on The Ellen Show, NBC Nightly News, and Time for Kids and a recent recipient of Atlanta's 40 under 40 awards . He is the CEO of Bonnerville, a business that promotes the value of self-care and a highly respected team member at the famed Ron Clark Academy.

He empowers leaders to build genuine relationships and establish a positive organizational culture, vision and team development. His seminars challenge listeners to reflect, strategize, and execute in order to increase their efficiency in the workplace and personal areas. He empowers listeners to build genuine relationships with their teams and colleagues because "You cannot demand a withdrawal from someone you have never invested in."

Michael Bonner's transformative approach leaves C-suite and nonprofit leaders, educators, and administrators confident and prepared to become world-changing citizens who garner significant impact.

To learn more about Michael Bonner, visit michael-bonner.com and follow him on all social media platforms at @michaelbonner_.

Dallas Keynote

Jere Chang The Drawers We Pull From About Jere

NG JERE CHAte d @mschanggif

Jere Chang, an Atlanta area classroom teacher for over 25 years, is an award winning TikTok star with over 2 million followers and is a dynamic and highly engaging speaker. Spending time with “Ms. Chang,” isn’t just viewing a reel or a TikTok trend. Her motivational talks about gifted education, inclusion, and creative thinking are visits in radical kindness, inspiration, and laughter.

Chang invites audiences into her classroom, family vacations with her wife and two young sons, even her lunch box to look deeply into something familiar with innovation and curiosity. Unlike most social media stars, Chang is honest. She doesn’t cover up her teaching goofs, her aging face, or her misunderstood classroom décor but points them out with a great sense of reflexivity and humor. Her goal: to have audiences walk away feeling refreshed, safe, cared for and valued.

From the moment she starts to talk, it’s time to get real.

Invited twice to the Whitehouse with 30 other influencers on LGBTQ+ issues, Ms. Chang is an international speaker who draws standing room only crowds. With 10 years in gifted education and three Master’s degrees in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), college administration, and applied linguistics, she speaks on a variety of topics focused on creativity and inclusion.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters At Elevate you get to create your own schedule. The following pages contain all of the breakout sessions available for you to choose from.

Mary Amoson

AMOSON MARY ringkindergarten @sha

Mary is an enthusiastic and passionate Kindergarten teacher from Georgia with 21 years of experience. She holds a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education and an Educational Specialist Degree in Instructional Technology. Recently, Mary earned an endorsement in Dyslexia. In addition to teaching full-time, Mary finds joy presenting to educators across the country for more than 16 years. She loves sharing engaging ideas, hands-on activities, and rigorous content that has worked with her own kindergartners through her website, Sharing Kindergarten. Mary is committed to instilling passion in teachers because she believes that passion is truly the secret to increasing learning and achievement.

Level Up Math: Hands-On Games That Make Learning Stick

Math

By Mary Amoson | PreK • K • 1st Take your math instruction to the next level with hands-on games that spark excitement and deepen understanding. In this fast-paced, idea-packed session, Mary will share high-quality, ready-to-use activities for whole group, small group, and partner work. You’ll explore leveled learning games perfect for remediation, skill-building, and enrichment—plus get to try them out yourself. Walk away with math ideas your students will love and learning that truly sticks!

Making Social Studies Meaningful st

By Mary Amoson | K • 1 • 2

nd

Social Studies Cross-Curricular

Replenish your supply of fresh ideas and hands-on activities for making social studies concepts come alive for little learners. Attend this session to discover how to integrate multiple content areas into social studies while keeping learning engaging and fun. Interactive activities and games will help your students explore social studies in meaningful ways. This session is hands-on and collaborative, so you’ll leave with strategies ready to use in your classroom right away!

Dallas Sessions & Presenters Powerful, Integrated Science: HandsOn Learning for Little Learners

By Mary Amoson | PreK • K • 1st • 2nd

Science Cross-Curricular

Unlock the power of science by integrating it seamlessly across all content areas! In this highly interactive session, Mary will share fresh, hands-on ideas that connect science with literacy, math, social studies, art, and more. Discover powerful challenges, creative projects, and engaging games that bring concepts to life and foster deep understanding. You’ll leave with integrated activities that spark curiosity, inspire exploration, and make science learning unforgettable for your little learners. (We have several hands on elements that are standards based, vocabulary rich, and student based, not teacher based.)

Sight Words in Action: Hands-On Games with Science of Reading Power

Science of Reading

By Mary Amoson | PreK • K • 1st Bring your sight word instruction to life with hands-on games backed by the Science of Reading and grounded in phonics principles! In this engaging session, Mary will clarify the difference between sight words and high-frequency words, explain how phonics instruction supports their mastery, and share what research says about teaching them effectively. You’ll be equipped with kid-tested, teacher-approved games that blend phonics practice with word recognition, helping students build strong reading foundations. Plus, you’ll leave with a digital make-and-take download and a fresh collection of activities you can use tomorrow to make word learning stick.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Keri Brown

KERI BROWN

@enchantedkindergarden

Keri Brown is a national presenter and curriculum author from Alabama with over 18 years of experience in early childhood education. She has taught both kindergarten and first grade, supported K-2 students through intervention, and is currently back in her favorite grade, kindergarten. Keri is passionate about using researchbased practices, hands-on learning, and meaningful tech tools to support young learners. She shares practical, ready-to-use strategies for teachers on Instagram @enchantedkindergarden and at www.enchantedkindergarden.com.

A Week with One Text: Maximizing Instruction from a Read Aloud

ELA

By Keri Brown | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Get more mileage from read alouds by building a full five day lesson around one high quality text. You will see how to plan a week that weaves in vocabulary, comprehension, writing, and discussion with each day building on the last. Teachers will walk away with a reusable framework they can plug into any classroom read aloud.

From Talk to Text: Helping Young Writers Build Ideas

Writing

By Keri Brown | K • 1st Speaking is a powerful bridge to writing. This session will focus on how intentional oral language routines can support young learners as they move from sharing ideas out loud to putting them on paper. Teachers will leave with simple ways to strengthen writing instruction by making talk an essential part of the process.

Math Fluency with Meaning: Strategy-Driven Number Sense

By Keri Brown | K • 1st • 2nd

Math

Time to move past drills and memorization. This session digs into how K-2 students build fluency by using strategy, not speed. You will explore ideas and strategies that build thinking, understanding, and recall so students develop flexible and confident number sense.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Holly Ehle

HOLLY EHLE

@thescienceofliteracylearning

Holly is a full-time educator who has over 20 years of experience teaching kindergarten and serving as an early literacy specialist. She currently has the very unique opportunity of teaching both beginning readers AND pre-service teachers in her new position as a Professor of Reading Science, teaching both in the college classroom and in the university’s science of reading pre-k - 4th grade model school program.

Holly is passionate about student engagement, differentiated instruction, early literacy, and educational neuroscience. She is currently wrapping up her Ph.D. in Reading, Language, & Literacy with a specialization in Educational Neuroscience and loves helping teachers better understand exactly how the brain learns when beginning to read and write.

Professionally, her mission is to teach EVERY child to be a proficient reader and writer, including those with dyslexia and/or other learning challenges. Outside of the classroom, her mission is to help teachers bridge the gap between research and practice in fun and engaging ways. Holly is also dedicated to giving back to educators who work so hard in the classroom, and it was this shared passion that forged her connection with the Kindergarten Smorgasboard/ELEVATE team.

Beyond Phonics: Unlocking the Hidden Power of Morphology & Syntax

Science of Reading

By Holly Ehle | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Some of the trickiest — yet most powerful — parts of literacy instruction are often skipped or skimmed: morphology, syntax, and grammar. This session makes them doable and fun in the primary grades. Grounded in the science of reading and writing research, we’ll dig into how young children can learn to work with meaningful word parts, sentence structures, and grammar conventions in playful, accessible ways. Participants will leave with evidence-based routines, classroom activities, and engaging characters/themes that help unlock these essential skills without overwhelming teachers or students.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters Elevate Engagement: Transform Your Classroom, Transform Their Learning

Student Engagement School Culture

By Holly Ehle | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd

Classroom transformations are powerful tools for designing intentional learning experiences. This session highlights how immersive environments and interactive lessons, grounded in the science of learning, capture student imagination while ensuring mastery of essential standards. Through multi-sensory, research-based activities, you’ll discover how to reimagine “dull” or difficult content areas into engaging experiences that align with state requirements.

Imagine your classroom becoming a construction site, a space station, or a jungle—all while meeting the most challenging standards. Think spy missions for grammar, jungle safaris for math, or superhero bootcamps for writing. Each transformation is intentionally designed to elevate engagement, spark curiosity, and deliver rigorous learning through serious fun. You’ll leave with blueprints, templates, and inspiration to bring standards to life in unforgettable ways.

Write On! Bringing the Writing Process to Life in Pre-K–2 Classrooms

Writing

By Holly Ehle | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Every young writer deserves to feel like an author. In this high-energy session, participants will explore practical ways to make the writing process engaging and manageable for our earliest learners. Using a collaborative approach, we’ll move through Think-Plan– Write–Revise–Publish with strategies that lighten cognitive load while still building strong writing habits. Grounded in evidence-based practices and fully aligned with the science of reading and writing, this session equips teachers with ready-to-use routines, anchor charts, and collaborative project ideas that transform writing from a struggle into a joyful, authentic experience.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Kelly Haynes Kelly Haynes is a Kindergarten teacher in Kentucky with 21 years experience in Kindergarten! She has taught in NC, VA and KY. She has BS in Elementary Education, Master Degree in Special Education and is a National Board Certified teacher. Kelly loves sharing ideas, resources and teaching strategies.

KELLY HAYNES hlove

@fromkindergartenwit

Budget Friendly Ideas

Play-Based Learning

By Kelly Haynes | K • 1st

Discover creative, budget-friendly ways to make your classroom come alive without breaking the bank. This session highlights simple, affordable ideas for hands-on learning using Dollar Store items that spark engagement, inspire curiosity, and keep teaching fun and practical. You’ll see how small, inexpensive finds can make a big impact on everyday learning.

Fine Motor Is a BIG Deal

Fine Motor

By Kelly Haynes | Pre-K • K

Explore easy, meaningful ways to build fine motor practice into daily classroom routines. This session shares approachable ideas that support young learners as they develop the strength and coordination needed for writing and other tasks. Learn how small adjustments in routines can make a big difference for little hands as they practice these skills each and every day.

Math Standards with Picture Books

By Kelly Haynes | Pre-K • K

ELA

Math

See how picture books can open the door to deeper math thinking and meaningful connections.

This session introduces creative ways to tie stories to those harder to cover standards, helping students visualize concepts and engage with math in a new way.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Katie Knight

T KATIE KNIGH e_knight

@teachertothecore_kati

Katie Knight teaches 1st grade and loves to share her hacks, hope, and ideas for TODAY’S changing classrooms! Katie welcomes you in, gets real, has you laughing! Her engaging sessions leave you feeling energized and equipped to take action! As a California educator, Katie has 27 students who speak 7 languages, no prep, specials or aides. “So, if it works for me, I know it will work for you! Plus, all of Katie’s ideas and frameworks for success are based in both solid research and her classroom career! Katie speaks nationally at conferences, and you can find her at Teacher to the Core on social media platforms. Katie has been with the Elevate Family of Speakers from the beginning and can’t wait to share her best insights with you in Dallas this summer!

Beyond the Bubble Bath: The Real Deal Reset, Refresh, and Refuel your Nervous System and Motivation

School Culture SEL

By Katie Knight | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Let’s be honest, no bubble bath or candle can undo the stress of teaching. What we need are brain-based strategies that calm the nervous system, restore focus, and reignite our spark.

In this playful, practical session, you’ll learn simple, science-backed tools to regulate stress, reset your energy, and refresh your motivation. We will talk about quick classroom-friendly resets and after-school rituals that truly restore your body, your work-life balance, and your hope. You’ll walk away grounded, energized, and ready to thrive, even in today’s crisis-fueled climate. . . and the best part, you know this session will have ideas, and routines that you can teach your students so everyone walking through your classroom door can be regulated and ready to learn!

Dallas Sessions & Presenters Engagement: The Ultimate Game Show

Play-Based Learning

Student Engagement

Classroom Management

By Greg Smedley-Warren & Katie Knight | K • 1st • 2nd In this fast-paced session, engagement takes center stage as we explore how to turn everyday lessons into can’t-miss experiences for your students.

Using the energy of a game show, you’ll discover how research-backed practices paired with playful routines, games, and songs that can transform your teaching and keep students coming back for more.

We’ll spin the wheel of engagement and by the final round, you’ll leave with a toolkit of classroom-ready strategies that boost engagement, deepen learning, and make teaching feel like winning every day.

The Perfect Paragraph, Playfully!

Helping students launch from their chaotic ideas and sail through the writing process, JOYFULLY!

Writing

By Katie Knight | 1st • 2nd Bring the Science of Writing to life in your classroom with tools and strategies that transform reluctant writers into confident creators! In this session, you’ll discover how to guide students with simple frameworks, engaging templates, and brain-friendly routines that make writing feel approachable and fun.

Forget the boring lessons of the past—this is writing with wow-factor, made easy! Think icons, colors, songs, chants, and hand motions that help students anchor the conventions of writing in ways that stick. You’ll learn how to spark excitement, boost idea generation, and watch your students beg for more writing time.

And the best part? These playful strategies make student-editing a joy and grading their work easier than ever. Walk away with practical tools, fresh ideas, and the confidence to make paragraph writing the highlight of your students’ day!

Dallas Sessions & Presenters Manage their Mischief: UPDATED and FRESH Classroom Management Ideas that Really Work

Classroom Management

By Katie Knight | K • 1st • 2nd Every classroom has a little mischief, but managing it doesn’t have to mean power struggles, sticker charts, or constant reminders. Our classrooms call for fresh approaches that work with kids’ brains and emotions, not against them. When you work with kids who are between 60 and 70 months old, you need management ideas that spark interest and infuse joy into the day.

In this session, you’ll discover FRESH and UPDATED ideas from me, Katie Knight: a real first grade teacher with 27 students, speaking 7 different languages, and doing it all without specials or an aide. So if it works for me, I know it will work for you! We are talking brain-based strategies for guiding behavior that go beyond the old tricks.

Learn how to: Build routines that create calm and consistency within you and the students.

Use connection and curiosity to redirect behavior. Tough when you are outnumbered!

Turn mischief into motivation with positive reinforcement that actually sticks.

Equip students with self-regulation tools that empower them to manage themselves.

You’ll walk away with practical, easy-to-use ideas that bring more peace, joy, and productivity to your classroom—because managing mischief is doable.

You’ve got what it takes- especially if you utilize the tools gained by attending this session!

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Todd Nesloney

TODD NESLONd EY @techninjatod

Todd Nesloney is the Director of Culture and Strategic Leadership for the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA). He has also served as an award-winning principal of a PreK-5th Grade campus of over 775 students in a rural town in Texas.

He has been recognized by the White House, John C Maxwell, the Center for Digital Education, National School Board Association, and more for his work in education and with children. Todd has written six books, including the runaway smash Kids Deserve It and his newest book Building Authenticity: A Blueprint for the Leader Inside You. He is passionate about doing whatever it takes for our students and teachers and helping others tell their story.

Culture Matters!

Leadership

By Todd Nesloney | Leadership Contributing to the campus culture is a collective effort, with each individual playing a vital role.

Todd, with extensive experience as an educator (serving as both an instructional aide and classroom teacher) and as a campus principal, has witnessed the transformative power of empowering students and adults. This empowerment not only shapes the campus culture but also has a profound impact on their lives. In this session, Todd will share actionable strategies that you can implement immediately. These strategies are designed to have a positive impact on everyone involved, strengthen relationships, and, most importantly, enhance student outcomes.

Hire, Train, Retain

Leadership

By Todd Nesloney | Leadership

Navigating the complexities of hiring, training, and retaining top talent is akin to an art form, crucial for the vibrancy and longevity of any organization. It’s about much more than filling positions; it’s about discovering individuals who will contribute to and thrive within your company culture, equipping them for success, and ensuring their continued growth and satisfaction.

Todd Nesloney, with his distinctive blend of humor and honesty, will delve into the nuanced strategies that make hiring, training, and retention not just operational tasks, but foundational elements of a thriving organization.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Beth Pittman

BETH PITTMAN @flexibleinfirst

Beth Pittman is a Transitional Kindergarten teacher from California who loves blending creativity and structure to make learning joyful and meaningful. With 21 years of experience in Transitional Kindergarten, Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade, she’s passionate about building strong relationships with students and families and believes in the power of positive classroom management. Beth enjoys sharing practical, playful strategies that help teachers create thriving classroom communities.

Calm Classrooms: Social-Emotional Learning in Everyday Moments

School Culture SEL

By Beth Pittman | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Integrate social-emotional learning naturally throughout your day. Participants will learn practical strategies to teach empathy, emotional regulation, problem solving skills and resilience through read-alouds, classroom routines, and daily interactions, creating a safe and supportive environment for all students.

Making Math Hands-On & Fun

Math

By Beth Pittman | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd

Bring math to life with hands-on activities and manipulatives that build number sense and problem-solving skills for students from TK through 2nd grade. This session shares easy-toimplement games, movement-based activities, and routines that engage learners at every level while making math exciting and accessible.

Play with Purpose: Harnessing PlayBased Learning in TK/Kindergarten

By Beth Pittman | Pre-K • K

Play-Based Learning

Discover how to balance academic standards with developmentally appropriate play in your TK/Kindergarten classroom. This session shares practical ideas for setting up purposeful play centers that build literacy, math, and social-emotional skills—all while keeping prep time manageable.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Jackie Powell

WELL JACKIE PO lsowls @mspowel

Jackie Powell brings over 26 years of experience as an early elementary educator, specializing in grades K–3.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Western Kentucky University and both her master’s and Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from Middle Tennessee State University. Jackie currently serves as a K–5 reading interventionist in Middle Tennessee, focusing on creating classroom experiences that spark curiosity, confidence, and a love of learning. A dedicated advocate for both students and teachers, Jackie has shared her expertise as a presenter for Elevate conference, both in person and virtually, for the past three years. She loves connecting with fellow educators to exchange ideas, celebrate successes, and inspire meaningful growth in teaching and learning. mspowellsowls44@gmail.com X & Instagram: @MsPowellsOwls

Illuminating Intervention

Data-Driven Instruction

By Jackie Powell | K • 1st • 2nd Every classroom is filled with students who learn in different ways and at different paces. This session will focus on how to use tiered support to make sure every student gets what they need to succeed. We’ll break down what Tier 2, and Tier 3 supports look like in an elementary classroom and share easy-to-use strategies you can take back right away.

More Than Sand: Multisensory Strategies to Strengthen Your Reading Instruction

By Jackie Powell | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd

Student Engagement Fine Motor ELA

We’ve all used sand to incorporate multisensory into our lessons, but there are more ways to do that. Multisensory is a great way to reach ALL readers, not just the youngest readers. In this session, you will learn about different strategies and materials to incorporate multisensory into your reading groups.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Kara Rigsby & Megan Diede

KARA RIGSBY EDE & MEGANtedDI k12 @integra

Megan Diede and Kara Rigsby are nationally recognized educational leaders and the dynamic force behind IntegratED. With over 30 years of combined classroom experience, they are known for transforming traditional instruction into engaging, student-centered learning experiences. As co-authors of ElevatED Educator: Turning Classroom Lessons into Engaging Experiences Using 7 Pathways of Learning, they empower teachers to reimagine what’s possible in their classrooms. Through innovative coaching, impactful professional development, and practical strategies, Megan and Kara help educators bring lessons to life, boosting both student growth and teacher confidence. Their work is grounded in a passion for accessibility, engagement, and meaningful learning, making them trusted partners for schools and districts seeking sustainable, inspired change. Whether speaking on a national stage or collaborating in classrooms, Megan and Kara are committed to elevating education, one experience at a time.

The Engagement Blueprint – Designing Learning That Lasts

Student Engagement

By Kara Rigsby & Megan Diede | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd

Ever feel like you’re competing with TikTok for your students’ attention? You’re not alone. Between pacing guides, standards, and that ever-present device, it can feel nearly impossible to keep kids engaged, let alone excited to come back tomorrow. But what if engagement wasn’t about flashy gimmicks, but about designing learning that actually sticks?

In this high-engaging, practical session, we’ll show you how to use classroom learning experiences to bridge the gap between required content and real-life connections. You’ll discover how small shifts in lesson design can lead to big wins in student engagement, sustained focus, and authentic growth. Think less “going through the motions” and more “wow, that actually mattered!” It’s time to break the mold, ditch the one-size-fits-all approach, and create classroom experiences that your students (and you) can’t wait to come back to.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters Ready, Set, Engage! Classroom Experiences You Can Use Tomorrow

Student Engagement

By Kara Rigsby & Megan Diede | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd

Get ready to fill your teaching toolbox with classroom experiences you can use tomorrow! This fastpaced, high-energy session is packed with low-prep, low-cost, and high-impact ideas that make instruction come alive. Walk away with ready-to-use strategies designed to engage every learner, elevate your lessons, and make learning unforgettable. Inspired by The ElevatED Educator, this session proves that great teaching doesn’t require more time; it just takes purpose.

Shift Happens: Adapting with Change, Teaching with Impact

Student Engagement

By Kara Rigsby & Megan Diede | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd

Let’s face it, change is coming, whether we’re ready or not. New standards, an updated curriculum, and unexpected twists… and yet, we still need students to be engaged, learning, and growing. In this high-energy, collaborative session, we’ll show you how to use multiple pathways of learning to meet every student where they are, keep them moving, thinking, and curious, and turn every shift into a win for learning.

You’ll leave with practical, ready-to-use strategies to clarify content, differentiate naturally, and sustain engagement, no matter what’s thrown at you. By the end, you’ll be ready to adapt with confidence, teach with impact, and help every student thrive in today’s dynamic classroom.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Liz Sherman

LIZ SHERMAoN @inclusiondisc

With over 15 years in special education, Liz Sherman brings energy, experience, and real talk to the work of inclusion. She’s passionate about creating equitable learning environments where all students thrive and cultivating cultures of acceptance and allyship. Liz has taught grades K–8 across Florida, Georgia, California, and Michigan in resource, self-contained, and coteaching models, and has served as both Assistant Director and Director of Special Education, building inclusive programs and systems. She holds a master’s degree in Integrated Curriculum with a focus on Special Education and helps schools move beyond compliance toward true belonging—designing systems that work for both students and educators.

Through her platform @InclusionDisco, Liz shares practical strategies, humor, hard truths, and inspiration for building schools rooted in disability acceptance, student voice, and collaboration.

Choose Your Own Edventure

By Liz Sherman | Leadership

Access & Opportunity Leadership

Edventure is out there! Embark on an exciting journey to create an inclusive program that values the needs and voices of your school. With Liz Sherman as your guide, you’ll navigate the path to identifying the pain points in your inclusive program and discover how to adjust them for success.

Along the way, you’ll unlock the essential components of a thriving inclusive program, learning how to work within your unique constraints to tailor solutions that fit your school’s needs. Will you choose to explore innovative strategies or dive deep into collaboration techniques? The choice is yours! Together, we’ll chart a course toward creating a more inclusive and effective educational environment, ensuring every student has a place to thrive. Edventures await—are you ready to make a difference?

Dallas Sessions & Presenters Spice Up Your Co-Teaching Life!

School Culture

By Liz Sherman | K • 1st • 2nd

Co-teachers of the world! Spice up your life! We love a good collaboration but have to admit, it can come with its challenges. Liz Sherman is ready to take you from Bland Spice to Bold Spice by transforming the one teach/one assist model from the most popular to the most productive by improving collaboration to make your teaching partnership successful and utilizing parallel or station teaching models to spice up your co-teaching instruction. In this session you'll gain strategies for effective collaboration, including communication, planning, and problem-solving within a teaching partnership, learn how to establish clear roles and responsibilities within a teaching team, while understanding the limitations of the one teach/one assist model and how to address its limitations by transforming it into a more effective co-teaching approach, and developing a strong grasp of how to implement parallel and station teaching in your classrooms to make your lessons go platinum. Hai! Si! Jai! Hold tight!

Wickedly Inclusive

Access & Opportunity Community & Belonging

By Liz Sherman | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd

Popular! You’re going to be popular! Liz Sherman will equip you with words and books, so disabled students aren’t overlooked. Everything that really counts…After this spellbinding workshop that defies ableism, your mindset will soar toward inclusive practices, inspiring your students to do the same.

You’ll discover empowering language that fosters open dialogue and creates an environment of trust and respect around disabilities, along with the magic of picture books that bring diverse experiences to life. This exploration of books will help you advocate for all students while tying it back to content standards, in addition to implementing cooperative strategies that promote peer-topeer support, embodying the idea that “we are led to those who help us most to grow, if we let them, and we help them in return.” Leave this session equipped with the tools and resources to create a classroom where every student, regardless of ability, can take flight. Let’s inspire change and champion inclusivity "For Good!"

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Greg Smedley-Warren Meet Greg Smedley-Warren, affectionately known as “Mr. Greg,” an experienced, current kindergarten educator and the creative mind behind The Kindergarten Smorgasboard. With an impressive 19-year teaching journey, Greg’s expertise spans various grade levels, including a brief stint in fifth grade and two years in second grade. However, it was a reluctant transition to kindergarten that unveiled his true passion and calling.

GREG SMEDLEY-WARREN

@kindergartensmorgasboard

Never wanting to teach kindergarteners, Greg’s journey took a turn when he discovered an instant connection on the very first day of kindergarten. From that moment on, he knew kindergarten was his calling. Beyond the classroom, Greg is a family man, cherishing moments with his loved ones in Nashville, Tennessee. Alongside his husband Jason, fondly referred to as “The Mister,” Greg shares his home with their daughter, Adelynn, and their dog, Dolly.

Recognized as the 2014 Teacher of the Year, Greg’s influence extends far beyond his classroom walls, as an international speaker, presenter, and co-founder of the ELEVATE! conference for teachers. A passionate curriculum developer, Greg’s dedication to educational excellence shines through in all his endeavors, driven by his unwavering commitment to empowering both students and fellow educators alike.

Small Groups, Big Impact (and Zero Stress!)

Classroom Management

By Greg Smedley-Warren | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Tired of feeling like small groups = big chaos? Mr. Greg is here to help you simplify, streamline, and actually enjoy your small group time! In this session, you’ll see how to connect your whole-group lessons to your small groups so planning is easier and more intentional. You’ll get real-life classroom examples, organization hacks, and research-based ideas that make small groups run smoother than ever. Less stress, more success—and some fun!

Dallas Sessions & Presenters The Engagement Experiment: Where Learning Gets Loud!

Student Engagement

By Greg Smedley-Warren | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd

Ready to reignite the magic in your classroom? Join Mr. Greg for a fast, fun, and hands-on session packed with simple, classroom-proven ideas that make students want to learn! Sensory play, and literacy lessons, to math games, food, and art projects, you’ll leave with a toolbox full of fresh, engaging and SIMPLE activities. It’s all about big learning, big laughs, and big energy—because engagement shouldn’t be complicated, it should be contagious!

The Reading Block Glow-Up!

Science of Reading ELA

By Greg Smedley-Warren | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Let’s make your reading block the best part of the day! Join Mr. Greg for a practical and laughterfilled session all about building reading routines that actually work. You’ll see how to hit all five components of literacy—phonics, phonemic awareness, comprehension, fluency, and writing— without losing your mind (or your prep time!). These science-of-reading-aligned routines are simple, effective, and full of classroom-tested ideas that keep students engaged and learning.

Walk away with ready-to-use strategies and fun inspiration!

Unleash The Scientist Within

By Greg Smedley-Warren | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd

Science

Turn your classroom into an exciting mad science lab with this engaging science session! Discover the numerous benefits of incorporating hands-on science activities into your teaching. Explore simple yet captivating science experiments that will spark curiosity and excitement in your class. so that you can unleash the scientist within each of your students!

Dallas Sessions & Presenters Engagement: The Ultimate Game Show

Play-Based Learning

Student Engagement

Classroom Management

By Greg Smedley-Warren & Katie Knight | K • 1st • 2nd In this fast-paced session, engagement takes center stage as we explore how to turn everyday lessons into can’t-miss experiences for your students.

Using the energy of a game show, you’ll discover how research-backed practices paired with playful routines, games, and songs that can transform your teaching and keep students coming back for more.

We’ll spin the wheel of engagement and by the final round, you’ll leave with a toolkit of classroom-ready strategies that boost engagement, deepen learning, and make teaching feel like winning every day.

Junk Genius: Upcycling Finds For Engaging Little Learners

Cross-Curricular The Arts

By Greg Smedley-Warren & LeAnna Wolkis Goldstein | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Get ready to see trash in a whole new light! Join Greg and LeAnna as they share their passion for transforming discarded items into classroom treasures. From bulk trash to thrift store bargains, you’ll learn how to spot potential in the most unexpected places and turn ordinary “junk” into extraordinary learning tools, decor, and student engagement pieces.

Our session is packed with: * Real Life Examples of upcycled classroom creations that spark curiosity. * Practical Tips for sourcing, sanitizing, and safely repurposing finds. * Budget Friendly Hacks that save money while boosting creativity. * Sustainable Strategies to teach students about reusing and reducing waste. * Inspirational Ideas to start your own treasure hunts.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

LeAnna Wolkis Goldstein

LDSTEIN LEANNA WOLKIS GO d

@wolkiswonderlan

LeAnna Wolkis Goldstein is an energetic and passionate Kindergarten Teacher from Arizona with over 28 years of teaching experience. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University, a Master’s Degree from NAU, an Early Childhood Endorsement and achieved the rigorous advanced credentials of National Board Certification. While teaching in her award-winning classroom, "The Wolkis Wonderland,” she designs mini hands-on center based stations that are brought to life with novel realia.

As a Nationally Recognized Presenter, LeAnna empowers educators to create cooperative learning environments utilizing music, movement & manipulatives that foster 100% student engagement.

Watch how she promotes exploration and encourages her Classroom Family to develop their imagination by following along inside LeAnna’s magical experiences on: Instagram: @wolkiswonderland Twitter: @WolkisWonders TikTok: @wolkiswonderland

Brains in Motion: Movement Strategies that Stick

Play-Based Learning Student Engagement

By LeAnna Wolkis Goldstein | Pre-K • K • 1st When young learners move, their brains light up and learning lasts longer. In this high-energy session, discover how to weave purposeful movement into literacy, math, and classroom routines so students stay engaged, focused, and ready to learn. You’ll walk away with fresh, practical strategies, from kinesthetic games to brain-boosting routines that transform wiggly bodies into powerful learning tools. Get ready to experience the joy of moving minds and bodies together with activities you can use the very next day in your classroom.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters The Creative Classroom Playbook

Classroom Management Student Engagement

By LeAnna Wolkis Goldstein | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Every teacher needs a few secret shortcuts up their sleeve and LeAnna is here to share hers. This fast-paced session delivers smart teacher hacks and simple organizing ideas that simplify routines, maximize learning time, and keep students engaged with little to no prep. From clever supply solutions to creative classroom systems, you’ll leave with a toolkit of tried-and-true teacher tricks designed to make your days easier, smoother, and a whole lot more fun!

Junk Genius: Upcycling Finds For Engaging Little Learners

Cross-Curricular The Arts

By Greg Smedley-Warren & LeAnna Wolkis Goldstein | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Get ready to see trash in a whole new light! Join Greg and LeAnna as they share their passion for transforming discarded items into classroom treasures. From bulk trash to thrift store bargains, you’ll learn how to spot potential in the most unexpected places and turn ordinary “junk” into extraordinary learning tools, decor, and student engagement pieces.

Our session is packed with: * Real Life Examples of upcycled classroom creations that spark curiosity. * Practical Tips for sourcing, sanitizing, and safely repurposing finds. * Budget Friendly Hacks that save money while boosting creativity. * Sustainable Strategies to teach students about reusing and reducing waste. * Inspirational Ideas to start your own treasure hunts.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters

Dr. Tron Young

Dr. Tron Young is an inspiring and accomplished educator with an impressive career spanning two decades. He has developed a wealth of experience in various educational roles, including middle school teacher, elementary principal, middle school principal, and assistant superintendent of educational services.

OUNG DR. TRONteY ach4u @tron2

His leadership and dedication were recognized when he was named the 2020 Illinois Middle School Principal of the Year, followed by being honored as the Illinois NASSP National Distinguished Principal of the Year. Throughout his career, Dr. Young has received numerous accolades, showcasing his commitment to excellence in education. He was awarded the Illinois Education Association Bob Haisman "Teacher of the Year," the 100 Black Men United Educator of the Year, and he was selected as a finalist for the prestigious 2023 Golden Apple Awards for Excellence in Leadership.

Dr. Young firmly believes in the necessity of being the "thermostat" and the importance of stepping outside conventional boundaries to achieve extraordinary results.

He encourages educators and students alike to pursue creative solutions that lead to meaningful change. With a steadfast commitment to growth and collaboration, he invites others to join him on a journey of connection, development, and shared success in shaping a brighter future for all learners.

Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer

Leadership

By Dr. Tron Young | Leadership

It is crucial to be intentional and purposeful in setting the culture of your school or classroom. We have to be the Thermostat and not the thermometer. There is a clear and distinct difference. The thermometer reads what is going on, how the students interact, what the parents say, and how the building/classroom flows. The Thermostat transforms what is going on, sets expectations, continues adjusting for student interactions, informs parents of what is going on, and initiates actions to set the culture of the building or classroom.

Ask yourself, are you the THERMOSTAT or the THERMOMETER? If you are ready to be the thermostat, Dr. Young will inspire you with stories and action steps to help you BE THE THERMOSTAT in your classrooms and school.

Dallas Sessions & Presenters Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer: Leading with Intentional Culture

Leadership School Culture

By Dr. Tron Young | Leadership

Leadership sets the climate. In this high-energy, story-driven session, Dr. Tron Young challenges participants to move from reacting to intentionally creating the environments they lead. Whether guiding a campus, early-learning center, or classroom team, leaders will explore broad competencies—vision, communication, relationships, and culture—that define effective leadership at every level. Through engaging reflection and practical strategies, attendees will learn how to “set the thermostat” for positivity, purpose, and performance. Designed for assistant principals, principals, instructional coaches, Pre-K directors, and childcare leaders, this workshop will inspire you to lead with clarity, courage, and consistency—so every child and adult in your organization feels the difference your leadership makes.

Set the Stage to Engage: Igniting Early Learners Through Thermostat Teaching

Student Engagement

By Dr. Tron Young | Pre-K • K • 1st • 2nd Early learners thrive when classrooms are joyful, connected, and full of movement. In this high-energy session, Dr. Tron Young—award-winning principal and author of Be the Thermostat—shows how to “set the stage” for engagement by creating environments where curiosity, collaboration, and creativity flourish.

Through hands-on strategies like the “Thermostat Ticket Challenge,” movement-based learning, and emotion-centered SEL routines, participants will experience activities that transform compliance into genuine engagement.

Whether you’re a PreK–2 teacher, instructional coach, or administrator, you’ll walk away with practical tools to keep students actively learning, emotionally invested, and joyfully connected—all while keeping your classroom climate calm, consistent, and focused.

RESEARCH CITATIONS All ELEVATE conference sessions are based on research.

It is one of our requirements to be a speaker for ELEVATE. Below are some of the sources from research that our speakers are using within their classrooms for best instructional practices, and to build their Professional Development sessions for ELEVATE!

Science of Reading & English Language Arts Aukerman, M., & Chambers Schuldt, L. (2021). What matters most? Toward a robust and socially just science of reading. Reading Research Quarterly, 56, S85-S103.

Duke, N. K., & Cartwright, K. B. (2021). The science of reading progresses: Communicating advances beyond the simple view of reading. Reading Research Quarterly, 56, S25-S44.

Ehri, L. C. (2020). The science of learning to read words: A case for systematic phonics instruction. Reading research quarterly, 55, S45-S60.

Kuo, N. C. (2023). Instructing students with dyslexia through structured literacy. International Journal of Education, Technology and Science, 3(1), 110-124.

Pangari-Schneller, R. (2024). Let’s/r//ē//d: Using Decodable Texts with Beginning Readers. Essays in Education, 30(2), 10.

Shanahan, T. (2020). The science of reading. The Reading Teacher, 74(2), 119-125.

Shanahan, T. (2020). What constitutes a science of reading instruction?. Reading Research Quarterly, 55, S235-S247.

Snowling, M. J., Hulme, C., & Nation, K. (Eds.). (2022). The science of reading: A handbook. John Wiley & Sons.

Math Bay-Williams, J. M., & SanGiovanni, J. J. (2021). Figuring out fluency in mathematics teaching and learning, grades K8: Moving beyond basic facts and memorization. Corwin.

Diller, D. (2023). Math work stations: Independent learning you can count on, k-2. Routledge.

Li, X. (2021). Investigating US preschool teachers’ math teaching knowledge in counting and numbers. Early Education and Development, 32(4), 589-607.

Gilligan‐Lee, K. A., Hawes, Z. C., Williams, A. Y., Farran, E. K., & Mix, K. S. (2023). Hands‐On: Investigating the role of physical manipulatives in spatial training. Child Development, 94(5), 1205-1221.

Gottfried, M., Fletcher, T., & Comstock, M. (2023). Teaching Mathematics in Kindergarten: How Does Instruction Differ

by Classroom Ability?. Teachers College Record, 125(10), 102-130.

Pellegrini, M., Lake, C., Neitzel, A., & Slavin, R. E. (2021). Effective programs in elementary mathematics: A meta-analysis.

Aera Open, 7, 2332858420986211.

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Suwetha, M. R., Anitha, M. A., & Malciya, M. S. (2025). PROMOTING MATHEMATICAL FLUENCY: A REVIEW OF STRATEGIES FOR DEVELOPING STRONG FOUNDATIONS. Contemporary Techniques in Math Education.

RESEARCH CITATIONS Writing Coker Jr, D. L., Farley-Ripple, E., Jackson, A. F., Wen, H., MacArthur, C. A., & Jennings, A. S. (2016). Writing instruction in first grade: An observational study. Reading and Writing, 29(5), 793-832.

Guo, Y., Puranik, C., Xie, Y., Dinnesen, M. S., & Breit, A. (2023). An observational study of writing instruction and practice in kindergarten classrooms. Literacy Research and Instruction, 62(2), 180-202.

Kirby, M. S., Spencer, T. D., & Chen, Y. J. I. (2021). Oral narrative instruction improves kindergarten writing. Reading & Writing Quarterly, 37(6), 574-591.

Levy, C. M., & Ransdell, S. (2013). The science of writing: Theories, methods, individual differences and applications.

Routledge.

Petersen, D. B., Staskowski, M., Spencer, T. D., Foster, M. E., & Brough, M. P. (2022). The effects of a multitiered system of language support on kindergarten oral and written language: A large-scale randomized controlled trial. Language, Speech, and Hearing Services in Schools, 53(1), 44-68.

Science Akerson, V. L., & Bartels, S. L. (2023). Elementary science teaching: Toward the goal of scientific literacy. In Handbook of research on science education (pp. 528-558). Routledge.

Davis, E. A., & Smithey, J. (2009). Beginning teachers moving toward effective elementary science teaching. Science Education, 93(4), 745-770.

Ligado, F. N., Guray, N. D., & Bautista, R. G. (2022). Pedagogical beliefs, techniques, and practices towards hands-on science. American Journal of Educational Research, 10(10), 584-591.

Mulholland, J., & Wallace, J. (2001). Teacher induction and elementary science teaching: Enhancing self-efficacy.

Teaching and teacher education, 17(2), 243-261.

Social Studies Grant, S. G., VanSledright, B. A., & Halvorsen, A. L. (2025). Elementary social studies: Constructing a powerful approach to teaching and learning. Routledge.

Mindes, G., & Newman, M. (2021). Social studies for young children: Preschool and primary curriculum anchor.

Bloomsbury Publishing USA. Savage, T. V., & Armstrong, D. G. (1996). Effective Teaching in Elementary Social Studies. Prentice-Hall, Inc., A Simon & Schuster Company, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632.

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RESEARCH CITATIONS The Arts Ferreri, L., & Verga, L. (2016). Benefits of music on verbal learning and memory: How and when does it work?. Music Perception: An Interdisciplinary Journal, 34(2), 167-182.

Jackson, N. (2009). The little book of music for the classroom: using music to improve memory, motivation, learning and creativity. Crown House Publishing.

Muñoz, M. E. M., & Valencia, M. (2010). Teaching English vocabulary to third graders through the application of the total physical response method (Doctoral dissertation, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira. Facultad de Bellas Artes y Humanidades. Licenciatura en Enseñanza de la Lengua Inglesa).

Sariyati, I. (2013). The effectiveness of TPR (Total Physical Response) method in English vocabulary mastery of elementary school children. PAROLE: Journal of Linguistics and Education, 3(1 April), 50-64.

Play-Based Learning Bubikova-Moan, J., Næss Hjetland, H., & Wollscheid, S. (2019). ECE teachers’ views on play-based learning: A systematic review. European early childhood education research journal, 27(6), 776-800.

Danniels, E., & Pyle, A. (2023). Teacher perspectives and approaches toward promoting inclusion in play-based learning for children with developmental disabilities. Journal of Early Childhood Research, 21(3), 288-302.

Fesseha, E., & Pyle, A. (2016). Conceptualising play-based learning from kindergarten teachers’ perspectives.

International Journal of Early Years Education, 24(3), 361-377.

Keung, C., & Cheung, A. (2023). A family-school-community partnership supporting play-based learning: A social capital perspective. Teaching and Teacher Education, 135, 104314.

Ndlovu, B., Okeke, C., Nhase, Z., Ugwuanyi, C., Okeke, C., & Ede, M. (2023). Impact of play-based learning on the development of children in mobile early childhood care and education centres: Practitioners' perspectives.

International Journal of Research in Business & Social Science, 12(3).

Pang, E., & Simoncelli-Bulak, L. (2017). Benefits of play-based learning in the kindergarten classroom. Success in HighNeed Schools Journal, 13(1), 23.

Taylor, M. E., & Boyer, W. (2020). Play-based learning: Evidence-based research to improve children’s learning experiences in the kindergarten classroom. Early Childhood Education Journal, 48(2), 127-133.

Tekman, T. K., & Yeniasır, M. (2023). The impact of Play-Based Learning Settings on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. Sustainability, 15(12), 9419.

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RESEARCH CITATIONS Cross-Curricular Kelly, L., & Stead, D. (2013). Enhancing Primary Science: Developing Effective Cross-Curricular Links: Developing Effective Cross–Curricular Links. McGraw-Hill Education (UK).

Kerry, T. (2011). Cross-curricular teaching in the primary school. Abingdon: Routledge.

Olavarria, N. (2023). Multisensory Learning Strategies: Teacher Preparedness. Lakewood, New Jersey: Academic Excellence Celebration.

Schlesinger, N. W., & Gray, S. (2017). The impact of multisensory instruction on learning letter names and sounds, word reading, and spelling. Annals of dyslexia, 67(3), 219-258.

Social Emotional Learning Gimbert, B. G., Miller, D., Herman, E., Breedlove, M., & Molina, C. E. (2023). Social emotional learning in schools: The importance of educator competence. Journal of Research on Leadership Education, 18(1), 3-39.

Greenberg, M. T. (2023). Evidence for social and emotional learning in schools. Learning Policy Institute.

Mondi, C. F., Giovanelli, A., & Reynolds, A. J. (2021). Fostering socio-emotional learning through early childhood intervention. International Journal of Child Care and Education Policy, 15(1), 1-43.

Raimundo, R., Marques‐Pinto, A., & Lima, M. L. (2013). THE EFFECTS OF A SOCIAL–EMOTIONAL LEARNING PROGRAM ON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN: THE ROLE OF PUPILS’CHARACTERISTICS. Psychology in the Schools, 50(2), 165-180.

Schonert-Reichl, K. A. (2017). Social and emotional learning and teachers. The future of children, 137-155.

Fine Motor Bahri, N. F., Ramawisari, I., & Putri, S. A. (2023). Design concept analysis of educational toys to stimulate early childhood fine motor development. Gelar: Jurnal Seni Budaya, 21(1), 57-70.

Bondi, D., Robazza, C., Lange‐Küttner, C., & Pietrangelo, T. (2022). Fine motor skills and motor control networking in developmental age. American Journal of Human Biology, 34(8), e23758.

Huffman, J. M., & Fortenberry, C. (2011). Developing fine motor skills. Young Children, 66(5), 100-103.

Riyadi, S., Darwis, M., Muhammadiah, M. U., & Cahyono, D. (2023). Analysis of the Relationship between Fine Motor Skills and Montage Activities in Early Childhood. Journal of Childhood Development, 3(1), 56-63.

Syafril, S., Susanti, R., Fiah, R. E., Rahayu, T., Pahrudin, A., Yaumas, N. E., & Ishak, N. M. (2018). Four ways of fine motor skills development in early childhood. ResearchGate, 1-15.

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RESEARCH CITATIONS Data-Driven Instruction Keuning, T., Van Geel, M., & Visscher, A. (2017). Why a data–based decision–making intervention works in some schools and not in others. Learning Disabilities Research & Practice, 32(1), 32-45.

Means, B., Padilla, C., DeBarger, A., & Bakia, M. (2009). Implementing data-informed decision making in schools: Teacher access, supports and use. US Department of Education.

Van Geel, M., Keuning, T., Visscher, A. J., & Fox, J. P. (2016). Assessing the effects of a school-wide data-based decisionmaking intervention on student achievement growth in primary schools. American Educational Research Journal, 53(2), 360-394.

Classroom Management Canter, L. (2010). Assertive discipline: Positive behavior management for today's classroom. Solution Tree Press.

Eisenman, G., Edwards, S., & Cushman, C. A. (2015). Bringing reality to classroom management in teacher education.

Professional Educator, 39(1), n1.

Evertson, C. M., Emmer, E. T., Sanford, J. P., & Clements, B. S. (1983). Improving classroom management: An experiment in elementary school classrooms. The Elementary School Journal, 84(2), 173-188.

Marzano, R. J., & Marzano, J. S. (2003). Classroom management that works: Research-based strategies for every teacher. Ascd.

Stichter, J. P., Lewis, T. J., Whittaker, T. A., Richter, M., Johnson, N. W., & Trussell, R. P. (2009). Assessing teacher use of opportunities to respond and effective classroom management strategies: Comparisons among high-and low-risk elementary schools. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 11(2), 68-81.

School Culture Hargreaves, D. H. (1995). School culture, school effectiveness and school improvement. School effectiveness and school improvement, 6(1), 23-46.

Lucas, L. (2023). Practicing presence: Simple self-care strategies for teachers. Routledge.

McMakin, D., Ballin, A., & Fullerton, D. (2023). Secondary trauma, burnout, and teacher self‐care during COVID19: A mixed‐methods case study. Psychology in the Schools, 60(5), 1442-1458.

Wagner, C. R. (2006). The school leader’s tool for assessing and improving school culture. Principal Leadership, 7(4), 41-44.

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RESEARCH CITATIONS Student Engagement Al Hussaini, M. H., Kousar, S., Kousar, N., Batool, U., & Munawar, N. (2024). Exploring Effective Strategies for Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes in Elementary Education. International Journal of Learning Reformation in Elementary Education, 3(02), 90-101.

Carter, C. P., Reschly, A. L., Lovelace, M. D., Appleton, J. J., & Thompson, D. (2012). Measuring student engagement among elementary students: Pilot of the Student Engagement Instrument—Elementary Version. School Psychology Quarterly, 27(2), 61.

Martins, J., Cunha, J., Lopes, S., Moreira, T., & Rosário, P. (2022). School engagement in elementary school: A systematic review of 35 years of research. Educational psychology review, 34(2), 793-849.

O'Hayer, L. (2022). Perspectives of Kindergarten through Second Grade Teachers Regarding Methods to Promote Student Engagement in Learning (Doctoral dissertation, Walden University).

School Leadership Chatzipanagiotou, P., & Katsarou, E. (2023). Crisis management, school leadership in disruptive times and the recovery of schools in the post COVID-19 era: A systematic literature review. Education Sciences, 13(2), 118.

Karakose, T. (2024). Will Artificial Intelligence (AI) make the school principal redundant? A preliminary discussion and future prospects. Educational Process: International Journal (EDUPIJ), 13(2), 7-14.

Karakose, T., & Tülübas, T. (2024). School Leadership and Management in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Recent Developments and Future Prospects. Educational Process: International Journal, 13(1), 7-14.

Martins, J., Cunha, J., Lopes, S., Moreira, T., & Rosário, P. (2022). School engagement in elementary school: A systematic review of 35 years of research. Educational psychology review, 34(2), 793-849.

Spillane, J. P., & Healey, K. (2010). Conceptualizing school leadership and management from a distributed perspective: An exploration of some study operations and measures. The elementary school journal, 111(2), 253-281.

Vukasovic, T. (2013). Building successful brand by using social networking media. Journal of Media and Communication Studies, 5(6), 56.

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RESEARCH CITATIONS Access & Opportunity Boutte, G. S. (2012). Urban schools: Challenges and possibilities for early childhood and elementary education. Urban Education, 47(2), 515-550.

Levinson, M., Geron, T., & Brighouse, H. (2022). Conceptions of educational equity. Aera Open, 8, 23328584221121344.

Lindner, K. T., Schwab, S., Emara, M., & Avramidis, E. (2023). Do teachers favor the inclusion of all students? A systematic review of primary schoolteachers’ attitudes towards inclusive education. European Journal of Special Needs Education, 38(6), 766-787.

Love, H. R., & Beneke, M. R. (2021). Pursuing justice-driven inclusive education research: Disability critical race theory (DisCrit) in early childhood. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, 41(1), 31-44.

Nachbauer, M. (2024). How schools affect equity in education: Teaching factors and extended day programs associated with average achievement and socioeconomic achievement gaps. Studies in Educational Evaluation, 82, 101367.

Winter, E., & O’Raw, P. (2010). Literature review of the principles and practices relating to inclusive education for children with special educational needs. National Council for Special Education. Trim, Northern Ireland.

Community & Belonging Allen, K. A., & Boyle, C. (2022). School belonging and student engagement: The critical overlaps, similarities, and implications for student outcomes. In Handbook of research on student engagement (pp. 133-154). Cham: Springer International Publishing.

Darling-Hammond, S. (2023). Fostering Belonging, Transforming Schools: The Impact of Restorative Practices.

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Graham, S., Kogachi, K., & Morales-Chicas, J. (2022). Do I fit in: Race/ethnicity and feelings of belonging in school.

Educational Psychology Review, 34(4), 2015-2042.

Palikara, O., Castro-Kemp, S., Gaona, C., & Eirinaki, V. (2021). The mediating role of school belonging in the relationship between socioemotional well-being and loneliness in primary school age children. Australian Journal of Psychology, 73(1), 24-34.

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