GYTO Call For Proposals - Session Submission Guide

Page 1


JULY5-8,2026

ORLANDO,FL

At Get Your Teach On, we believe that the voices of educators are the heartbeat of everything we do Every workshop we design, every experience we curate, is grounded in what teachers are asking for in this moment in education. That’s why our presenter selection process is intentional and highly selective. We aren’t just building a schedule—we’re building a full experience that equips, empowers, and energizes teachers when they need it most

As you consider submitting, here are the qualities we value most:

Energy – Energy looks different for everyone. It’s not about volume or performance it’s about passion and presence. We’re looking for presenters who bring their authentic selves and create a contagious atmosphere for learning.

Real Solutions – Teaching is one of the hardest professions in the world. Our presenters must provide practical, doable solutions that teachers can take back to their classrooms tomorrow to see real impact.

Inspire Realistically – Educators need to see themselves in the solution. Presenters must inspire while also grounding ideas in strategies that can be realistically replicated in any classroom to yield real results

Experienced Learning – GYTO is not about “sit and get.” Teachers must be active participants in the process—engaging, moving, creating, and reflecting right alongside you.

Challenge – Our educators crave growth. Go beyond the surface. Push them to think differently, to explore new ideas, and to stretch themselves as both people and professionals.

We know that great workshops are not just good ideas they are meaningful, timely, and responsive to what educators need right now. The sessions selected are those that fit into the bigger picture of the full GYTO experience, ensuring that every teacher leaves feeling seen, inspired, and equipped.

If you feel called to join us in this mission, we can’t wait to see your submission. Together, we’ll continue to honor the profession, elevate teacher voices, and create experiences that remind educators why their work matters so deeply.

With gratitude and excitement,

Hope & Wade King (Co-Founders)

LaNesha Tabb (Content Lead)

Amelia Capotosta (Content Lead)

GYTO CONTENT TEAM

PRESENTER SUBMISSION GUIDE

We want to ensure that every teacher who attends a Get Your Teach On event is given an experience that truly makes an impact. That starts with you—and with a clear, thoughtful application. Each step of this process is designed to help us understand not just what you want to share, but how it will challenge, inspire, and equip educators in meaningful ways. Remember, it’s not about filling space with more words—it’s about clarity. Be intentional, be specific, and let your authentic voice as an educator shine through.

1. SELECT YOUR TOPIC:

When choosing your topic, focus on a problem that teachers are truly experiencing right now. One of the biggest pieces of feedback we receive is that sessions often feel like they “ go too fast.” This isn’t a time issue—it’s a content issue. Your session should not be broad or surface-level, but rather a focused and narrow topic that can be fully developed in 75 minutes. Aim for depth over breadth. Go beyond simply explaining what something is push teachers into a new way of thinking, challenge their current practices, and provide them with meaningful, replicable solutions. Remember: teachers don’t want to hear what they already know; they crave fresh perspectives and strategies that will stretch them and elevate their practice.

2. CHOOSE YOUR FRAMEWORK

At Get Your Teach On, our goal is not to give teachers “ more of the same, ” but to create a well-rounded professional learning experience that meets their needs in fresh and meaningful ways. That’s why we offer five distinct workshop frameworks, each designed to provide a different kind of learning opportunity. Some are hands-on and materials heavy, others are more experience-based or data-driven. As you select your framework, think about what best highlights your authentic instructional style and strengths as a presenter. The framework you choose should not only complement your topic but also showcase the unique way you engage and challenge teachers.

PRESENTER SUBMISSION GUIDE

A.TEACHERTOOLKITBUILD:

Description:

A true “make-and-take” session. The emphasis is on production and creation rather than extended explanation. Teachers leave the room with tangible classroom resources they can use tomorrow.

Expanded Requirements:

2–4 Takeaways: Every attendee must leave with ready-to-use classroom resources (anchor charts, student trackers, data sheets, checklists, etc.). Each should have a “finished” example AND a blank/adaptable template.

Time Structure: At least 70% hands-on build time; presenter only models or explains briefly (about 30%)

Customization: Teachers must be given time within the session to tailor resources to their grade level/content area

Support Materials: Provide printed or digital directions, step-by-step models, and suggestions for differentiation

Accessibility: This session will be the most “material heavy” and is where you can get completely creative with your materials. These ideas may be a one-off lesson (think room transformation) or may be part of your every day instructional approach.

B. IDEA SPRINT

Description:

A high-energy grab-and-go session designed to flood teachers with quick wins This is about “bucket fillers” that spark joy and engagement without requiring a ton of prep Expanded Requirements:

10+ Ideas: Each idea should be clearly explained and modeled in under 5 minutes Engagement Factor: Fast-paced delivery with music, movement breaks, call-and-response, or live demos to keep energy high

2+ Practice Moments: Opportunities to actually try a few strategies role-play a transition, test a call-back, or do a sample “brain break.”

Takeaway List: Every strategy documented in a digital/printable one-pager, so teachers can implement immediately.

Accessibility: Materials should be minimal (markers, post-its, tech already in classrooms). No “Pinterest project” level prep.

PRESENTER SUBMISSION GUIDE

C.PLAYBOOKWORKSHOP

Description:

A system-building workshop where teachers go deep into 2–3 critical routines, structures, or frameworks that elevate instruction and are meant for daily use

Expanded Requirements:

Focus on Longevity: Content should center on sustainable, high-impact systems (ex: small-group rotations, behavior systems, feedback loops).

Phases of Implementation:

Explicitly teach and model:

a.Launch (how to introduce to kids),

b.Manage (daily upkeep),

c Monitor (collect data/evidence),

d Adjust (troubleshooting, reteaching)

Hands-On: At least one practical activity for each system (ex: create a tracker, map student flow, rehearse language)

Implementation Guide: Provide a checklist or roadmap that drives the workshop from start to finish and serves as a reference post-conference.

Reflection/Adaptation: Teachers discuss and adapt systems to fit their specific context before leaving the room.

Example Topics: (Deep dive into systems, routines, frameworks)

Small-Group Instruction Playbook: How to launch, manage, and monitor guided reading/math groups.

Classroom Management Frameworks: Systems for transitions, routines, and expectations that stick

Data-Driven Instruction Cycle: Weekly structures for collecting, analyzing, and acting on classroom data

Academic Feedback Systems: Creating sustainable student feedback loops (peer, teacher, and self)

Student Motivation Systems: Step-by-step process for accountability charts, goal-setting routines, or incentive systems

PRESENTER SUBMISSION GUIDE

D.STRATEGYLAB

Description:

A practice-driven session that zooms in on one powerful instructional strategy. You will model this strategy as it should look in the classroom for the entire group. Then teachers actively practice the same procedures/steps/strategies with their small group. Receive peer feedback, and reflect.

Expanded Requirements:

Singular Focus: Only one core strategy per lab (ex: guided questioning, accountable talk, or feedback conferencing)

Session Structure: Roughly 50% practice, 30% reflection/discussion, 20% explanation/modeling

Peer Practice: Teachers simulate instruction with partners or small groups (role-playing as teacher/student)

Feedback Loop: Built-in time for peer feedback (guided questions provided) and personal written reflection.

Application Steps: End with a “tomorrow’s plan” card or digital prompt teachers complete so they’re ready to try it immediately in their classroom.

Example Topics: (One core practice practiced deeply through role-play/feedback)

Effective Questioning: Practice using Bloom’s stems or higher-order prompts in role-play groups.

Proximity in Action: Teachers practice “teaching with their feet” to increase engagement and minimize off-task behavior

Student Talk Protocols: Role-play “turn & talk,” Socratic seminar, or accountable talk stems

Feedback in Conferences: Teachers simulate short student-teacher conferences and practice giving actionable feedback.

Modeling Mini-Lessons: Teachers practice breaking down a standard into a concise, clear 10-minute lesson.

PRESENTER SUBMISSION GUIDE

E.DATATODECISIONS

Description:

A protocol-based session that models and practices turning raw student data into instructional moves It demystifies data by focusing on what to do next.

Expanded Requirements:

Sample Data Sets: Provide realistic data (reading comprehension, math fluency, behavior points, etc.).

Step-by-Step Protocol:

Teachers walk through a consistent process:

a.Identify trends,

b Select response,

c Plan reteach or small group,

d Document decision

Active Practice: Participants analyze data in pairs or small groups and share out instructional moves

Decision-Making Emphasis: Teachers must articulate why they chose certain actions

Takeaway Tools: Provide data trackers, planning sheets, or reflection prompts that can be directly applied to classroom/school data.

Next Step Orientation: Emphasize that the end goal is always actionable next steps for instruction, not just numbers on a page.

Example Workshops: (Practice turning student data into actionable instruction)

Reteach in Reading: Using comprehension data to plan targeted small-group lessons

Math Fluency Analysis: Analyzing fact fluency data and choosing appropriate interventions

Behavior & SEL Data: Reviewing classroom behavior logs and deciding on tiered interventions

Exit Ticket Analysis: How to use daily exit tickets to adjust the next day’s lesson

Progress Monitoring Systems: Practice building and using trackers for ongoing student growth checks.

PRESENTER SUBMISSION GUIDE

3.KNOWYOURAUDIENCE

At Get Your Teach On, the experience is intentionally designed so that teachers don’t choose their sessions we curate the entire journey for them. Attendees remain in their breakout rooms, and it’s the presenters who rotate to them. This unique structure ensures that every educator receives a well-rounded, carefully balanced experience that blends content, inspiration, and connection. Remember, GYTO is not just about delivering strategies; it’s about building community. Over the past 10 years, one of the most valuable takeaways teachers share isn’t just what they learned, but the relationships and network they’ve built. As a presenter, you ’ re stepping into a space where both your content and your connection with the audience matter deeply.

OUR TRACKS THIS YEAR:

PRE-K

KINDERGARTEN

FIRST GRADE

SECOND GRADE

3-5 GENERAL ED

3-6 MATH/SCIENCE

3-6 ELA

MIDDLE SCHOOL

SCHOOLHOUSE

LEAD ON

PRESENTER SUBMISSION GUIDE

4.DEVELOPYOURTAKEAWAYS

When choosing your topic, focus on a problem that teachers are truly experiencing right now. One of the biggest pieces of feedback we receive is that sessions often feel like they “ go too fast.” This isn’t a time issue it’s a content issue. Your session should not be broad or surface-level, but rather a focused and narrow topic that can be fully developed in 75 minutes. Aim for depth over breadth. Go beyond simply explaining what something is push teachers into a new way of thinking, challenge their current practices, and provide them with meaningful, replicable solutions. Remember: teachers don’t want to hear what they already know; they crave fresh perspectives and strategies that will stretch them and elevate their practice.

5. SUPPORT WITH EVIDENCE OF EFFECTIVENESS & REAL RESULTS

One of our top values at Get Your Teach On is ensuring that every session is rooted in both research and real results. Teachers want to know that what you ’ re sharing truly works not just in theory, but in practice. As you design your workshop, ground your strategies in evidence-based practices and reinforce them with measurable outcomes from your own classroom or school. What growth did you notice? How did student achievement, engagement, or confidence improve? Share data, documented results, or specific examples that validate your approach. This evidence not only strengthens your session but also builds trust with educators who are eager to invest their time in proven strategies.

6.MAKEITUNIQUE

This is where your creativity gets to shine. At Get Your Teach On, we want every session to feel like a once-in-a-conference experience something teachers couldn’t get anywhere else. Think about how you can bring your content to life in a way that is memorable and engaging. Will you theme your session? Incorporate storytelling? Use props, visuals, or interactive elements that surprise and delight? Uniqueness doesn’t have to mean big or flashy—it simply means designing an experience that reflects your personality, showcases your authentic style, and leaves teachers saying, “I’ve never thought about it like that before.”

PRESENTER REQUIREMENTS:

At Get Your Teach On, it is our utmost priority to provide attendees with high-quality, research-based content that is aligned and impactful. We know this can be challenging when bringing together so many different perspectives, which is why clarity and consistency are so important. We also want to make sure you feel fully informed about what this role entails before you invest your time and energy into your proposal. Throughout the year, there will be several key commitments designed to help us build community within our presenter team, stay united around our mission and vision, and ensure that every teacher receives the best experience possible. This process also allows us to provide streamlined communication so that you, as a presenter, feel supported and can get the most out of your experience with GYTO. Below you will find an outline of the presenter requirements as we prepare for the National Conference this summer.

PRESENTER MEETINGS:

WELCOME / INFORMATION MEETING: NOVEMBER PRE-CONFERENCE MEETING: JUNE

MATERIAL SUBMISSIONS:

At Get Your Teach On, we want you to be able to focus fully on delivering an incredible experience for teachers which is why our team takes care of preparing all session materials, handouts, and resources ahead of time. Everything will be organized and ready for attendees upon your arrival, so you do not need to bring or prepare your own materials. To make this possible, it’s essential that all required materials are submitted by the specified deadlines. Because of the systems we have in place, late submissions cannot be accepted, and presenters are not permitted to bring their own materials on-site. Missing a deadline may also result in your workshop being removed from the schedule. We share these expectations not to add pressure, but to ensure a smooth, consistent, and high-quality experience for both you and our attendees.

HARD GOODS DUE: MARCH 2

PRINTED RESOURCES DUE: APRIL 27

DIGITAL RESOURCES DUE: JUNE 1

WILL BE HELD: MARCH

As part of the preparation process, you will meet individually with a member of our content team as well as our materials manager. These one-on-one sessions are designed to walk through your workshop in detail, ensure that every aspect of your session is supported, and confirm that all materials are prepared and ready in advance. Our goal is to make sure you feel confident and equipped, with everything you need easily accessible for attendees the moment your session begins.

ONE-ON-ONE SESSION REVIEW: RECORDED WORKSHOP:

SUBMISSION DUE: MAY

At Get Your Teach On, we take the quality of our workshops very seriously To maintain the highest standards, any brand-new session you propose will require a full recording of the presentation from start to finish While we understand this is a big ask, it reflects the level of care and commitment we place on ensuring that every workshop aligns with GYTO’s instructional methods, vision, and practices This process allows us to carefully vet new content, provide feedback when needed, and ultimately guarantee that attendees receive the most powerful, consistent, and impactful learning experience possible

PRESENTER PACKAGE:

At Get Your Teach On, we believe the quality of our content is only as strong as the expert voices delivering it. That’s why we place just as much value on our presenters as we do on the sessions themselves. We want you to feel seen, valued, and appreciated—not only for the expertise you bring, but also for the impact you make on educators across the country. Our goal is that your GYTO experience is every bit as fulfilling for you as it is for our attendees. From start to finish, we do everything we can to support you and set you up for success. Below, you’ll find an outline of the benefits you’ll receive as a GYTO presenter and partner in this mission.

PRESENTER COMPENSATION:

Presenters at Get Your Teach On are compensated for each session they deliver Once your session has been accepted, you will receive a formal contract outlining the specific payment details for the conference This ensures clarity, transparency, and consistency so that you know exactly what to expect We value the expertise, time, and energy you invest in creating powerful learning experiences, and compensation is one way we honor the impact you make through your work with GYTO

PRESENTER CONFERENCE TICKET:

In addition to compensation, all presenters receive a complimentary ticket to the GYTO National Conference. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience not only as a presenter but also as a learner. You’ll have access to attend any session of your choosing throughout the event, giving you the opportunity to grow alongside our attendees, connect with fellow educators, and enjoy the full scope of what makes GYTO so impactful.

To support your role as a presenter, Get Your Teach On provides both a travel stipend and hotel accommodations for the day before and the day of your sessions Our team will handle booking your hotel so that everything is seamless and stress-free If you’d like to extend your stay for the full duration of the conference, you are welcome to book additional nights through the GYTO room block Both your travel stipend and accommodations will be outlined in detail in your formal contract

PRESENTER HOTEL & TRAVEL: MATERIALS PREPARATION:

At Get Your Teach On, we pride ourselves on creating an immersive, hands-on experience for every attendee and we never expect presenters to manage the logistics of preparing materials for hundreds of participants All requested materials, including approved hard goods and printable resources, will be purchased, prepared, and placed on tables for attendees prior to your session This ensures that every teacher walks into a fully equipped space and you, as a presenter, can focus entirely on delivering your best content without the stress of bringing or preparing materials for 500–1,500 educators

ON

SITE

RESOURCES & SUPPORT:

We want you to feel fully supported throughout your time at the conference Each morning, presenters are provided with breakfast and coffee, as well as lunch each day You’ll also receive a GYTO Fest tee, a welcome bag, all attendee swag, and special discounts to shop The Collective In addition, every presenter will be paired with a dedicated liaison who will welcome you upon arrival, give you a full tour of the venue space, assist with checking your technology, and ensure that all of your resources are prepared and ready Our goal is for you to feel cared for and supported from start to finish, so you can focus on delivering your best experience for teachers

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I submit my proposal?

To submit your proposal, you’ll need to complete the official Presenter Submission Form linked at the end of this packet. This form will guide you step by step through the information we need to review your session for consideration. Be sure to fill it out thoroughly and thoughtfully, as it serves as the foundation for our selection process.

When will I find out if my proposal has been accepted?

All applicants will be notified the week of November 10–14. You’ll receive an email either way—whether your proposal has been accepted or not—so you’re never left wondering. We deeply value the time and effort that goes into each submission, and we want to ensure you receive clear communication about your status.

Will I be compensated for my workshops?

Yes! All GYTO presenters are paid per workshop they deliver. Specific payment details will be outlined in your formal contract once your session has been accepted. This will also include details about your travel stipend and complimentary hotel accommodations.

Can I submit more than one proposal?

Yes! You are welcome to submit as many proposals as you’d like. However, because we know these take time to prepare, we highly recommend focusing only on topics where you’ve experienced consistent, proven success in your classroom. Submitting in areas where you have authentic expertise and strong results will give your proposals the best chance of standing out.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When will the submissions close?

The submission deadline is October 26, 2025, at 10 PM EST.

Do I need to register for the conference to submit a proposal?

No. If you are selected to present at GYTO, you will receive a complimentary full-access pass to the National Conference. This allows you to enjoy the entire event, including the ability to attend any session of your choosing, for the duration of the conference.

Will I receive feedback on my proposal?

While we deeply value every single proposal and recognize the time and effort that goes into each submission, we are unable to provide individual feedback for sessions that are not accepted. With thousands of proposals submitted each year, it simply isn’t possible for our team to give the level of thoughtful, detailed feedback each one deserves. Please know that every proposal is carefully reviewed, and we are truly grateful for the passion and expertise you share with us through this process.

Will I have to bring/prepare my own materials?

No. One of the things that sets Get Your Teach On apart is the hands-on, experience-based professional development our attendees receive. To make this possible—and to ensure that you can focus fully on your content—we never ask presenters to purchase or bring their own materials. Instead, Team GYTO will handle it all. Approved hard-good materials and printables will be purchased, prepped, and placed on attendee tables prior to your session so that everything is ready to go the moment you begin.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many attendees will be in each room?

While we can’t provide exact numbers for each breakout room until closer to the event, the GYTO National Conference will host approximately 6,500 educators from around the globe. Depending on the grade level, breakout rooms typically range from 300 to 1,500 attendees.

Do I need to attend the conference the entire duration?

While you are more than welcome to join us for the entire event, we completely understand that summer days are precious—time for family, rest, and focusing on you. We would love to have you with us for the full conference experience, but you are only required to attend on the days that you are presenting.

What support will I receive on site?

Every presenter will be paired with a dedicated liaison who will welcome you upon arrival, give you a full tour of the venue space, assist with checking your technology, and ensure that all of your resources are prepared and ready. Our goal is for you to feel cared for and supported from start to finish, so you can focus on delivering your best experience for teachers.

What AV is provided?

Each GYTO session room has a full suite of AV equipment to support your session. This includes at least one wireless handheld microphone, speakers, screens, and projectors. If you are co-presenting a session, your room will have two wireless handheld microphones. All rooms are also equipped with an iPad loaded with our GYTO conference music playlists. A Logitech Spotlight Presentation Remote will also be in the room, but we encourage presenters to bring their own. Presenters must solely bring their personal laptop with an HDMI output (or required dongles), such as a current model Apple MacBook Pro.

Wifi will be available in your hotel room, but will not be available in meeting spaces. All presentations, videos, and audio files should be downloaded to your computer in advance, and we recommend having a backup copy on a USB stick.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are there opportunities to submit keynote workshops?

At this time, we are not accepting submissions for keynote workshops. Keynotes are curated separately by the GYTO team to align with the overall vision and flow of the conference experience.

What if my topic overlaps with another presenter’s submission?

It’s not uncommon for multiple proposals to address similar topics or themes. In these cases, our team carefully reviews each submission to determine which session best fits the overall GYTO experience and the needs of our attendees this year. Sometimes this means selecting the proposal that provides the most depth, unique perspective, or alignment with our frameworks. Please know that every submission is valued and considered, and overlap does not diminish the strength of your proposal.

Can I make changes to my session after it’s accepted?

Yes. You may make adjustments to your session after it has been accepted. However, once your one-on-one planning meeting has taken place and your materials have been finalized, no further changes can be made. This ensures that everything is prepared, printed, and ready for attendees, and that you have the support you need to deliver a smooth, high-quality presentation.

Can I co-present with another educator?

Yes! You are welcome to co-present with another educator. Please note that co-presented sessions follow a different pay scale than individual sessions. Specific details will be outlined in your contract if your proposal is accepted.

What if I’ve presented this session at another conference—

can I still submit it?

Absolutely. Your content is your content, your expertise is your expertise, and your results are your results. We welcome you to share sessions you’ve presented elsewhere. The only requirement is that your content aligns with GYTO’s mission and vision. We also encourage you to consider making modifications or updates to ensure your workshop fits within one of our frameworks and provides attendees with the high-quality, impactful experience they’ve come to expect from GYTO.

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