You’re invited! June June 2 23 3-2 -25 5,, 2 20 02 27 7
CONFERENCE GUIDE
A LETTER FROM GREG AND JASON A decade. It’s difficult to capture what ten years of Elevate truly means. So much life has been lived in that time—both within this community and in our own family. We’ve welcomed two children, grown and changed in ways we never could have imagined, and experienced seasons filled with joy, uncertainty, laughter, learning, and tears. Through it all, Elevate has grown alongside us. At the heart of these ten years have always been teachers. Teaching can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also feel isolating and overwhelming. Teachers give so much of themselves every day, often without receiving the recognition, support, or validation they deserve. Elevate was created to change that—to build a place where teachers feel seen, valued, celebrated, and reminded that the work they do matters. Over the past decade, we have watched educators arrive carrying the weight of their classrooms and leave feeling renewed. We have seen friendships form, confidence grow, ideas come alive, and teachers rediscover the joy and purpose that first called them to this work. We have listened to stories that made us laugh, stories that moved us to tears, and stories that reminded us again and again of the extraordinary heart it takes to teach. Elevate has never simply been a program or an event. It is a community built by educators, for educators—a place to learn from one another, lean on one another, and celebrate one another. It is a reminder that no teacher should have to do this work alone. The lessons shared over these ten years have reached far beyond the walls of Elevate. They have traveled back into classrooms, schools, and communities, touching students and families in ways we may never fully know. That ripple effect is one of the greatest privileges we have had the opportunity to witness. As we look back, we think about the big milestones—but even more, we remember the small moments: the conversations in hallways, the nervous introductions, the breakthroughs, the hugs, the laughter, and the moments when someone realized, “These people understand. I belong here.” To every teacher who has trusted us with your story, your time, your ideas, and your heart: thank you. You are the reason Elevate exists. You are seen. You are valued. And the work you do matters more than words can express. Ten years. So many memories. So much learning. So many tears and so much joy. A lot of life has been lived—and we are deeply grateful that Elevate, and all of you, have been part of ours. Here’s to the next decade of learning, growing, connecting, and elevating one another.
With gratitude, Greg & Jason
Who We Are At Elevate, we bring together innovative Pre-K through 2 nd grade educators to nurture every child’s potential through research-informed learning. Our interactive sessions inspire professional growth and empower educators to create engaging, inclusive classrooms where all students thrive.
Founded in Research
Next-Day on Implementati
Vetted & Experienced Speakers
All Elevate conference sessions are based on evidence-based content and practices and are 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, activity resources, and free downloads that you can take back to your classroom and use immediately!
At Elevate, we set the bar high! All presenters are required to be active educators who support their presentation content with current research, model best-practice instructional methods, and incorporate active-engagement strategies within their sessions.
K E Y
N O T
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Jr. h t i Sm ithjr y e Mick ckeysm @mi
rtens a g r e d @kin
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@jacck Har khar t tmanmann nkm c
oo Koo K koo @koo
ington Dr. Jody Carrrington @drjodycar
and our ty s p e c ia l p a r guests!
Topics Covered at Elevate Nashville Science of Reading
English Language Learning
Math
Science of Writing
Science
Social Studies
The Arts
CrossCurricular
Play-Based Learning
Social Emotional Learning
Classroom t Managemen
Student Engagement
Access & Opportunity
Communityg & Belongin
School Culture
School Leadership
Come c elebrate 10 years of taking t e to new h aching eights! Gaylord 2800 Op Opryland Nashvil ryland Dr. le, TN 3 7214
Limited rooms available so be sure to book your room as soon as possible.
BOOK HOTEL
Conference Tickets
Dates
Price
Early Bird Ticket
through December 31st
Discounted Ticket
TBD
Standard Ticket
TBD
At-The-Door Ticket
June 23rd
$350 $400 $450 $600
DID YOU KNOW...
WE ACCEPT PURCHASE ORDERS! TO REGISTER BY P.O.
PO FORM
IMPORTANT INFO Complete our online form in it's entirety (completed by one 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. After you have submitted your PO using our form. We'll email an invoice to you within 72 hours. Payment is due within 30 days. (no exceptions to this due date) SUBMITTING THIS REQUEST FOR REGISTRATION IS NOT A GUARANTEE OF REGISTRATION. REGISTRATION IS ONLY CONFIRMED UPON ACTUAL PAYMENT OF THE INVOICE.
QUESTIONS, EMAIL US AT CONTACT@ELEVATEYOURCLASSROOM.COM DOWNLOAD OUR W9 - CLICK HERE
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a ence Your ClC re e Y er te fe at nf va on o ev C Elle E y y r r a a s s r r e e v niiv nn An h A th 0t 10 1 2027 , 5 2 23 June d nd an a
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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23RD 2pm - 3:30pm
Pre-Conference: ABC Bootcamp
4pm - 6pm
Registration
6pm - 7:15pm
Opening Keynote
THURSDAY, JUNE 24TH 8:00am - 9:15am
Announcements & 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 Sessions
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Breakout Sessions
3:15pm - 4:15pm
Breakout Sessions
6:30pm - 8:00pm
FRIDAY, JUNE 25TH 8:00am - 9:15am
Announcements & 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 and speakers. 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.
What You Get at Elevate!
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Elevate Nashville Keynotes
The Drawers We Pull From: Handles, Same Lessons TheNew Drawers We Pull From By Greg Smedley-Warren | Keynote
y-Warren Greg Smedlemo rgasboard @kindergartens
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 Mr. 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 daughters, Adelynn and Violet, 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.
Elevate Nashville Keynotes
Feeling Seen: The Power of the Classroom TheConnection Drawers We in Pull From By Dr. Jody Carrington | Keynote Long before students remember what we taught them, they remember how they felt when they were with us. In classrooms filled with increasingly diverse needs, behaviours and experiences, one of the most powerful things an educator can offer is also one of the simplest: the experience of being genuinely seen. Dr. Jody Carrington explores the psychology behind connection and why acknowledgement, trust and belonging on gt in rr have such a profound impact on student behaviour, @drjodyca engagement and learning. She examines what happens when children - and adults - feel disconnected, why behaviour is often communication, and how educators can build relationships without lowering expectations or taking responsibility for every challenge a student carries.
Dr. Jody Carrington
Jody also tackles an equally important question: who is seeing the educators? Because adults who feel supported, trusted and connected are far better equipped to offer the same experience to the students they serve.
About Jody Dr. Jody Carrington is a powerhouse speaker and fearless champion for authentic human connection. She is highly sought after for her expertise, energy and genuine approach to helping people solve the most complex human-centred problems. This rapidly disconnected world is leaving so many of us overwhelmed, lonely, and burned out. Dr. Jody boldly believes that all humans have the capacity for good; however, so many of us these days, because of isolation and burnout, have lost access to that good. Dr. Jody’s work often involves understanding just how we got to this disconnected place, what we need to put the pieces back together, and maybe most importantly, how we collectively do "the work" to find our way back home again when (not if) we lose our way. Her authentic, honest, and often hilarious approach never fails to inspire and motivate audiences. Dr. Carrington is the founder and principal psychologist at Carrington & Company, she's written three best-selling books, speaks on hundreds of stages globally each year, and hosts the widely celebrated podcast UNLONELY. In this modern world where we look all the time, but we don't see, where we listen but we don't hear, Dr. Jody is clear on one thing: we were never meant to do any of this alone.
Elevate Nashville Keynotes Keep On Going: The 3 Rhythms That Help Educators Stay Renewed, andFrom Resilient TheRooted, Drawers We Pull By Mickey Smith Jr. | Keynote This flagship keynote helps educators shift from overwhelmed to empowered, from surviving to showing up strong. Mickey shares his inspiring journey and introduces three foundational “rhythms” for sustainable motivation, connection, and courage in the classroom. Through music, humor, and heartfelt storytelling, Mickey leaves staff feeling refueled and ready to keep going—even when the work gets hard.
Mickey SmithjrJr. @mickeysmith
Learning Outcomes: Learn the 3 “Keep On Going” rhythms to reignite motivation Shift from burnout to belief with simple, sustainable tools Reconnect with your deeper “why” as an educator Adopt new mental frameworks for resilience and impact Experience professional development that moves hearts Leave with a clear plan for meaningful action
About Mickey • GRAMMY® Award Winner for Music Education & 8-Time Teacher of the Year • Full-Time Music Teacher at a K–12 College Preparatory School • Combines Music, Humor, and Motivation to Uplift Educators & Staff Educator. Encourager. Those are just two of the words that describe the Southwest Louisiana native Mickey Smith Jr. This 8-time Teacher of the Year and GRAMMY Music Educator Award Recipient believes in promoting education and the educators across the globe who make it possible. Mickey Smith Jr. has shared his unique combination of message and music with thousands of students as a teacher, all-state conductor, and clinician. In addition, he has taken his systems of joy for teaching to hundreds of educational conferences, school district meetings, and leadership development stages across North America sharing his "Keep On Going" approach. Mickey has extensive experience teaching in Title I, urban, suburban, rural, public, as well as private schools. In addition to teaching, he empowers educators to build genuine relationships with students in order to discover the unique sound of every child in their class. Throughout Mickey's career, he has experienced firsthand that every child is just one sound adult away from achieving success. Mickey was that very student that benefited because someone believed in who he could be. He believes that modern day teaching is a relationship-based approach, and that more than ever teaching cannot simply be about the subject matter, but also about showing students that they matter.
Elevate Nashville Keynotes
I Like You, There’s Doubt it! TheNo Drawers WeAbout Pull From By Dr. Jean | Keynote When children feel accepted, confident, and part of the classroom community, their academic performance improves and problem behaviors decrease. Let’s see how we can encourage children to manage their emotions as we promote relationship skills and academic goals. You’ll learn:
Dr. Jean nds
@drjeanandfrie
*Activities to help children develop self-confidence *Positive power statements *Songs and cheers to create a classroom family *Techniques to encourage self-regulation *Partner projects to develop social relations
About Dr. Jean Dr. Jean Feldman’s noteworthy educational career has spanned more than 40 years. She has served as a classroom teacher, instructor of adults, author, and consultant. She is a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, the National Kindergarten Alliance, and the International Reading Association. Dr. Feldman’s list of degrees include a B.A. from the University of Georgia, a D.A.S.T. from Emory University, and both M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from Georgia State University. Dr. Feldman inspires teachers across the country with her engaging songs and creative activities that help make teaching and learning FUN! Among Dr. Jean’s many accomplishments is the authorship of several books. Dr. Jean has also published a number of recordings that are used by school systems throughout the country. The songs are uplifting for both children and adults.
Elevate Nashville Performers
Jack Hartmann
The Drawers We Pull From About Jack
rtmann Jack Ham annkmc @jackhart
Jack Hartmann’s Super Fun Learning Songs are all about making learning even more fun with the very best in children’s educational music. Jack’s music is research-based and teacher approved to focus on helping children learn important state, national and early childhood standards. All of Jack’s songs and videos engage children with not only great educational content, but with cool beats kids love and fun movements.
Jack Hartmann received his BA in Child Psychology from the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL and his MA degree in Clinical Psychology from Assumption College in Worcester, MA. Jack began his career of working with autistic children at Shands Teaching Hospital in Gainesville, Florida and then he worked as a social worker with delinquent youth in St. Petersburg, Florida and in psychiatry at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. Jack has presented his wonderful children’s music at teacher workshops and conferences in almost every state in the United States. He has been a keynote and workshop leader at the annual NAEYC and the National Head Start conferences, S.D.E. conferences all across the country and many local and state pre-school, kindergarten and 1st grade conferences. Jack Hartmann received one of the highest alumni awards from the University of Florida in 2011. Jack was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award for Lifetime Achievement for his writing over 1,500 songs for children that are used in schools and homes all over the world. Jack’s album Brain Breaks received the Parent’s Choice approved Award in 2015. Jack was inspired way back in the 1980’s every day by his wife, Lisa, a former kindergarten teacher. Jack and Lisa and their staff work side by side every day to bring great children’s music and lots of smiles to young girls and boys all over the world.
Elevate Nashville Performers
Koo Koo
The Drawers We Pull From About Bryan and Neil Koo Koo has spent nearly two decades proving that family entertainment can be every bit as creative, energetic, and unforgettable as anything else.
Koo Koo @kookoo
Founded by lifelong friends Bryan and Neil, the Minneapolisbased duo has become one of the most recognizable independent acts in family entertainment by creating music that gets kids, parents, teachers, and caregivers moving together. Their infectious songs, wildly interactive live performances, and unmistakable sense of humor have made Koo Koo a favorite everywhere from living rooms and classrooms to theaters, museums, festivals, and schools across North America.
Over the years, Koo Koo has reached hundreds of millions of families through streaming platforms like YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and platforms like GoNoodle and Heidi Songs, where their movement videos have become daily favorites in classrooms around the world. Their growing catalog has attained hundreds of millions of streams and views, introducing generation after generation of young fans to music that celebrates movement, imagination, and joyful self-expression. Their unique approach has earned national attention, including a memorable performance on America’s Got Talent, where they brought their signature energy to one of television’s biggest stages and covered it in glitter! They’ve also got fans in The Kardashians, the Backstreet Boys, the Harlem Globetrotters, the Savannah Bananas, Crayola, and Panera Bread Company! But for Bryan and Neil, the biggest moments have always happened where real connections are made: watching thousands of kids dance together, hearing parents sing every word alongside their children, and creating experiences that families remember long after the music ends. Koo Koo is stepping into its biggest chapter yet. Building on everything they’ve created over the past decade, the duo is expanding Koo Koo into a true family entertainment brand. New music, original characters, long-form storytelling, video content, immersive experiences, and exciting collaborations are all part of a larger creative vision designed to grow alongside the families who have supported them from the beginning while welcoming an entirely new generation of fans. You can watch the evolution happening on YouTube with season 2 of their series ‘Oh Yeah Heck Yeah,’ Every song, every show, and every video is built around the simple idea that movement, laughter, and music have the power to bring people together. Whether it’s a dance break in a kindergarten classroom, a sold-out theater full of families, or a parent and child singing in the backseat of the car, Koo Koo creates moments that spark connection, confidence, and pure joy. With millions of fans worldwide and a future full of new adventures, Koo Koo continues to redefine what family entertainment can be: imaginative, inclusive, endlessly fun, and made for everyone to experience together
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Keri Brown n wn row Bro B ri ri e e K K n de ar rg de kin @enchanted
About Keri
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.
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Jake Daggett tt ett ge gg ag Da eD ke ak Ja J tt jake_dagge @
About Jake
Jake is an Ohio native who began his teaching career in Milwaukee, WI in 2015. Having specialized in literacy instruction, Jake built a following on social media for his engaging and rhythmic phonics lessons and evidencebased structured literacy practices, even landing him on The Kelly Clarkson Show in January 2024. Throughout his career, Jake has taught PreK, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades and now serves as a Literacy Director for a school in Milwaukee, WI. In his role, Jake supports a team of kindergarten through fifth grade teachers in their implementation of the science of reading. In addition, Jake co-teaches an online Science of Reading Course for Elevate Your Classroom. In his spare time, Jake presents nationally for conferences such as Illinois ASCD and Plain Talk visits school districts all over the country to model lessons and work with teachers and leaders. He is thrilled to be returning for year 4 of Elevate!
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Dr. Adam Dovico o ico vic ov Do mD am da Ad r. A Dr. D vico
@adamdo
About Adam
Adam Dovico is an accomplished teacher, curriculum facilitator, principal, professor, speaker, and author. For the past two decades, he has taught students of all ages through his engaging and rigorous teaching style. He has also provided professional development for educators from around the world through his keynotes, workshops, and books. You can often find Adam standing on a table or chair dressed in one of his signature outrageous and amusing suits. He has been recognized by organizations such as the Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund, Learning for Justice, and the Atlanta Falcons for his leadership and teaching, and he continues to work for greater equity in schools through his antiracist and culturally responsive pedagogy. You can learn more about Adam's teaching and leadership online at adamdovico.com, on social media @adamdovico, or in his books: Inside the Trenches, The Limitless School, and When Kids Lead.
Elevate Nashville Presenters
The Drawers We Pull From
Holly Ehle le hle Eh y E lly oll Ho H acylearning
@thescienceofliter
About Holly
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.
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Johnathon Hines es ines Hin nH on tho ath na hn Joh Jo athonhines
@mrjohn
About Johnathon
Johnathon Hines is a Pre-K educator and father from Atlanta, Georgia. He attended Albany State University on a full athletic scholarship in basketball. After graduating with his Bachelor of Arts degree in Health and Physical Education, he went on to play professionally in South America (Peru). When he returned, he decided to go into the field of education because he was passionate about mentoring and working with children. After earning his Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University, he began his career teaching pre-kindergarten students. Mr. Hines understands that a first impression is a lasting impression for children, so he provides an exciting learning experience for his students each day. Additionally, he understands that in our community there is a shortage of exposure to positive Black males and wants to show children that African American men can be heroes in an every-day role, like teaching. In 2020, Mr. Hines made history as the first Black male to be named the Public School Pre-K Teacher of the Year for the entire State of Georgia. In his spare time, Mr. Hines enjoys spending time with his daughter, watching basketball and spending quality time with friends and family.
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Katie Knight t ht igh nig Kn e K tie ati Ka K _katie_knight
@teachertothecore
About Katie
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 Nashville this summer!
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Ashley Moore re ore oo Mo yM ley shle Ash A mo
@principal_
About Ashley
Ashley Moore, more affectionately known as “Principal Mo,” is an award-winning educator, visionary school leader, and nationally certified Principal Mentor with over 18 years of experience spanning teaching, special education, and administration. A 2024 MAESP Connected School Leader Award recipient, she’s celebrated for her bold, innovative approach to leadership and her commitment to cultivating authentic, community-driven schools. As Principal of a thriving elementary/middle school, Ashley has championed transformative programs in Accelerated Learning and Arts Integration, redefining what’s possible in public education. Beyond the schoolhouse, she co-hosts the educator talk show Rules to Engagement, where she empowers leaders to harness AI, creativity, and authenticity to reimagine the future of education.
Elevate Nashville Presenters
The Drawers We Pull From
Crystal Oswald ld ald swa Osw all O sta ryst Cry C eacher
@thebalancedt
About Crystal
Crystal Oswald is a reading specialist in the suburbs of Chicago, where she works directly with students to build strong literacy skills and a love for reading. Before stepping into this role, she spent six years as an instructional coach with a focus on Social Emotional Learning and literacy, and fourteen years as an elementary school teacher (grades 1–5). Crystal is passionate about helping students grow as confident, capable readers and supporting meaningful, engaging learning experiences. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, Sadie, as well as reading, golfing, tackling home improvement projects, and being with family and friends.
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Alexia Pendleton n ton leto dle end Pen ia P xia lex Ale A eacher
@thedancert
About Alexia
Alexia Pendleton is a Kindergarten teacher in Atlantic City, NJ, where she was named teacher of the year for the 2020-2021 school year. She is a wife, mother, hip hop choreographer, and fitness instructor. Known as the @dancerteacher on social media, she loves empowering educators with her high energy sessions. She loves to encourage, motivate, and uplift students, teachers, and administrators for absolute excellence in education!
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Jackie Powell elll wel ow Po ie P ckie Jack Ja ls
@mspowellsow
About Jackie
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
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Liz Sherman n an ma erm her Sh iz S Liz L co
@inclusiondis
About Liz
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 co-teaching 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.
Elevate Nashville Presenters
The Drawers We Pull From
Hilary Statum m tum tatu Sta ry S ary ila Hil H gtails
@pencilstopi
About Hilary
Hilary Statum is a Teacher and Literacy Consultant in Middle Tennessee with over 18 years of experience. She has experience teaching pre-k, kindergarten, transitional-first, second, fourth, and fifth grade! She has also worked as a multilingual teacher and middle school literacy consultant. She is the published author of two books, Solar System for Kids and Kindergarten Activity Book: Unicorns and the face behind Pencils to Pigtails, a popular blog for parents and teachers. She holds a Master’s Degree in Instructional Leadership and enjoys coordinating and teaching her school district’s free parent English class. Her favorite days are spent with her two young girls and baby boy, husband, parents, siblings, and the rest of her very large extended family. You can connect with Hilary on all social media platforms using the handle @pencilstopigtails.
Elevate Nashville Presenters
LeAnna Wolkis-Goldstein a nna Ann LeA Le in tein dste olds Gol kiss G olki Wol W
@wolkiswonderland
About LeAnna
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
Elevate Nashville Presenters
Dr. Tron Young g ng un ou Yo n Y ron Tro r. T Dr. D ch4u @tron2tea
About Tron
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. 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.
DJ Elevate Nashville DJ
Dustin Thomas s as ma om ho Th in T stin ust Du D jdt
@dustin_d
About DJ DT
Dustin Thomas is a National Board Certified educator, community leader, and entrepreneur based in Salisbury, Maryland. With over 15 years of experience teaching physical education in Maryland, Dustin is passionate about helping young people develop healthy lifestyles, confidence, and lifelong skills. He was honored as Teacher of the Year for the 2021–2022 school year, recognizing his impact and dedication to student success. A graduate of Salisbury University, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with dual minors in Health and Exercise Science, as well as a master’s degree in Applied Health Physiology with a concentration in Strength and Conditioning. Dustin is the founder of Droppin’ the Beat Incorporated, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering youth through music, mentorship, and enrichment programming. By blending education with creativity, his work supports academic growth, student engagement, and positive social development—especially for students facing adversity. In addition to his work in education and nonprofit leadership, Dustin is a professional DJ, using music as a powerful tool to connect with and inspire young people. He has presented both locally and nationally at SHAPE America conferences, sharing innovative approaches to physical education and student engagement.
Meet Our Team!
Jason Warren CEO Co-Founder @_themister
Greg Smedley-Warren CoFounder @kindergartensmorgasboard
Adam Dovico General Manager
Crystal Oswald Conference Director
@adamdovico
@thebalancedteacher
Mel Novoa Conference Coordinator @theteachingscoop
Holly Ehle Academic Advisor @hollyehle
Katie Wonderly Creative Director @mswonderlymakesmusic
Jackie Powell Social Media Coordinator @mspowellsowls
Brian Russell Logistics Manager @blastingoffinkinder
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