A NOTE FROM OUR FOUNDERS
Welcome to the 2026 Get Your Teach On National Conference!
Whether this is your first year or you’ve been with us since the beginning, we are so grateful you chose to spend these days investing in your craft, your confidence, and your heart for kids. This year’s theme, Together Is Better, is more than a slogan. It is the foundation of everything we believe about teaching, learning, and leading.
Over the last decade, we’ve had the privilege of stepping into thousands of classrooms across the country. And every time, the same truth rises to the top: extraordinary teaching doesn’t happen alone. It happens in communities. The teams of educators who encourage one another, challenge one another, problem-solve together, and share a relentless commitment to strong Tier I instruction that changes outcomes for kids.
Here at GYTO, you are surrounded by that kind of community. You’re sitting among teachers and leaders who are dreaming big right beside you, who believe that engagement is a pathway to rigor, and who know that when we align our practices, our purpose, and our passion, students win every single time.
Over the next few days, you’ll experience powerful model lessons, high-impact strategies, honest conversations, and moments of joy that refill your cup. But more importantly, you’ll build connections with your track, your presenters, your colleagues, and this incredible network of educators who are ready to walk this journey with you long after the balloons come down.
Our hope is that you leave this conference not only with new tools and ideas, but with a renewed belief in the collective strength of this profession. You don’t have to do this work alone. And you were never meant to.
Thank you for showing up.
Thank you for giving your whole heart to your students.
Thank you for believing that better is possible and that better happens together. We’re cheering you on every step of the way.
WHY CHOOSEGYTO WHY CHOOSE GYTO
Because It Works. For Instruction. For Culture. For Retention.
When administrators choose to invest in Get Your Teach On, they’re not choosing a conference—they’re choosing measurable instructional growth, renewed teacher morale, and stronger school culture. Districts across the nation consistently report that GYTO moves the needle in the areas that matter most: Tier I instruction, student engagement, and teacher retention.
And while GYTO is rooted in research-based, high-impact practices, we also know this important truth: You cannot reach a teacher’s practice until you’ve reached their heart.
Our experience and our data show that when teachers feel seen, valued, energized, and supported, they are far more likely to stay, grow, and implement new learning with fidelity.
What the Data Shows
INSTRUCTIONAL IMPROVEMENT
Educators leave GYTO with concrete, actionable Tier I strategies. Across our post-conference surveys: 96% of attendees said the sessions + workshops at GYTO were better than other PD conferences they have attended. 98% say they implement GYTO strategies on their campus at least monthly. Schools report higher student engagement, better transitions, and more consistent academic routines across classrooms.
GYTO DOESN’T JUST INSPIRE. IT TRANSLATES INSPIRATION INTO CLASSROOM REALITY.
Teacher Retention & Morale
WE SURVEYED MANY EDUCATORS FOLLOWING GYTO AND FOUND:
99% of teachers felt more motivated after attending GYTO. 88% reported a renewed commitment to staying in the profession. Administrators consistently cite reduced burnout and higher staff morale during the school year following GYTO attendance.
TEACHERS LEAVE FEELING RECHARGED, REINVESTED, AND READY TO LEAD LEARNING ON DAY 1.
School Culture & Team Alignment
WHEN TEAMS ATTEND TOGETHER, THE IMPACT MULTIPLIES:
Stronger alignment around Tier I expectations.
Clearer instructional language across grade levels.
Increased collaboration and buy-in around schoolwide initiatives.
GYTO CREATES MOMENTUM—NOT JUST WITHIN INDIVIDUALS, BUT ACROSS ENTIRE CAMPUSES.
Survey data from the 2025 GYTO Charlotte Attendee Follow Up Survey.
97% of attendees say GYTO is better than other conferenceS
WHY GYTO WORKS WHY GYTO WORKS
Our sessions go far beyond theory. Teachers learn exactly what to do, when to do it, and how to do it and they practice it live.
High-Quality Modeling & Real Classrooms
From live model lessons to authentic classroom footage, teachers get to see effective instruction in action.
Emotional Recharge + Cognitive Rigor
Our approach is simple: If a teacher doesn’t feel inspired, they can’t be innovative. We reignite passion and sharpen practice. This combination is rare and incredibly effective.
Immediate, Actionable Implementation
Teachers leave with tools they can use the very next day: Lesson structures, engagement strategies, routines, coaching cycles, and Tier I systems
Long-Term Support & Sustainability
With tracks ranging from leadership to small groups to School House to Science of Reading, teams leave with a full-year plan not a three-day high
The Bottom Line
SENDING TEACHERS TO GYTO IS NOT A COST. IT’S AN INVESTMENT IN YOUR PEOPLE AND YOUR RESULTS.
When teachers return:
✔ They teach better.
✔ They engage students more effectively.
✔ They collaborate with higher trust and clarity
✔ They feel supported, valued, and reinvigorated.
✔ They stay.
Instruction rises. Culture rises. Student learning rises. That’s why administrators keep sending their teams year after year.
FIND YOUR PERFECT TRACK AT GET YOUR TEACH ON 2026 FIND YOUR PERFECT TRACK AT GET YOUR TEACH ON 2026
At Get Your Teach On, we do professional development differently.
Instead of bouncing from session to session, you’ll select one track and stay with the same community for the entire conference. This intentional design is what makes GYTO truly unique.
KINDER GARTEN
Your track b our home b A lace h build l ti hi , deepen content knowledg ngside ed ho te ou tea k away with real, sustainab g you can i he m retur sroom or campus.
SECOND GRADE FIRST GRADE GRADES 3-5
Below is your guide to the 12 tracks offered this year. No matter your grade level, role, or instructional responsibility… there’s a place made just for you.
GRADE-LEVEL TRACKS
These tracks ensure that content, strategies, and model lessons directly reflect the standards, developmental needs, and instructional demands of your grade band
SCIENCE OF READING & WRITING TRACKS
Deep, practical, and classroom-tested instruction aligned to the most essential literacy practices.
SPECIALIZED TRACKS
MIDDLE SCHOOL
math TRACK
Designed for educators seeking high-yield strategies tailored to their academic area.
Created for unique populations and instructional roles that require targeted support.
GYTO WORKSHOP FRAMEWORKS GYTO WORKSHOP FRAMEWORKS
What You’ll Experience in Your Track
Your conference track is intentionally designed to include a balanced mix of workshop frameworks. Each icon on your schedule represents the type of learning experience you’ll be part of during that session.
Teacher Toolkit Build
Hands-On Creation
Purpose: Build classroom-ready tools during the session
You’ll Experience:
70% creation + build time
Brief modeling + examples
Customization time for your grade/content
Printed/digital templates
You’ll Leave With:
Finished resources + adaptable templates
Strategy Lab / Engagement Lab
Practice Like You’re in the Classroom
Purpose: Learn one strategy deeply through practice
You’ll Experience:
Modeling of one core strategy
Partner/small-group role-play
Peer feedback + reflection
“Use it tomorrow” planning
You’ll Leave With: A ready-to-implement strategy plan
Idea Sprint
Fast-Paced Strategy Roundup
Purpose: Quick wins and highenergy ideas
You’ll Experience:
10+ rapid strategies
Movement, music, demos
Short practice moments
You’ll Leave With: A printable/digital idea list
Data to Decisions
Turn Data Into Action
Purpose: Practice using data to plan instruction
You’ll Experience:
Clear protocols
Trend identification
Small-group/reteach planning Collaborative analysis
You’ll Leave With: Data trackers + planning tools
Playbook Workshop
Deep Dive Into Systems
Purpose: Strengthen sustainable routines and structures
You’ll Experience:
Step-by-step model: Launch →
Manage → Monitor → Adjust
Real classroom routine modeling
Build supporting tools
Context-specific discussion
You’ll Leave With: An implementation roadmap
Live Model Lessons
Real Students. Real Instruction.
Purpose: See Tier I instruction in action
You’ll Experience:
Full lesson taught with students
Real-time modeling: pacing, feedback, movement
Debrief + Q&A
You’ll Leave With:
A clear vision of strong instruction
NEW TO NATIONALS! NEW TO NATIONALS!
We ’ re leveling up this year ’ s experience with incredible new additions.
Introducing two brand new tracks focused on the Science of Reading and interactive Pre-Conference Intensives for Classroom Management & Instructional Coaching you won’t want to miss.
NEW TRACKS!
Take a peek at the next few pages to see
SCIENCE OF READING TRACKS SCIENCE OF READING TRACKS
New for this year, GYTO is launching two dedicated Science of Reading & Writing tracks one for K–2 educators and one for 3–5 educators. Designed for districts and schools that are making structured literacy a priority and need real, practical support.
These tracks are intensive, hands-on, and classroom-focused, giving you the clarity and confidence you need to make structured literacy your strongest system on Day 1
What you’ll learn:
✔ Top Rope Practices
High-impact, upper-strand SOR essentials that strengthen comprehension, vocabulary, language structures, written expression, and content knowledge.
✔ Bottom Rope Practices
Foundational lower-strand components such as phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, fluent reading, spelling instruction, and orthographic mapping.
✔ Writing Instruction That Aligns With the Science
Explicit, systematic writing practices embedded throughout the day including sentence-level work, modeled writing, writing about reading, and predictable routines that build strong written communication.
Two Grade-band Options:
K–2 SORW Track: Early foundational skills + emergent writing
3–5 SORW Track: Transitional + multisyllabic literacy + advanced writing routines
Who is this track for? Why you’ll love it:
Schools/districts adopting or refining SOR-aligned practices
Teachers who want clarity, alignment, and confidence Leaders who need to create a campus-wide literacy plan
Anyone feeling overwhelmed by the shift and ready for structured support
IF YOUR SCHOOL IS PRIORITIZING LITERACY AND YOU WANT THE SUPPORT TO GET IT RIGHT, THIS TRACK IS FOR YOU.
SCIENCE OF READING & WRITING AT GYTO SCIENCE OF READING & WRITING AT GYTO
Where research meets real classrooms so ever y student becomes a confident reader and writer.
INTRODUCING GYTO PRE-CONS
$99 till December 31st (after $129) | July 5 (8:30 am - 12 pm)
Your Deep-Dive, High-Impact Start to the Conference
For the first time ever, GYTO is launching Pre-Conference Intensives. Half-day, deep-dive sessions designed to give you an early jump on the two hottest topics in education: Classroom Management and Instructional Coaching.
These Pre-Cons take place the day before the official conference kickoff and are completely optional add-ons and can be purchased when you begin registration. If you ’ re ready to sharpen your practice, address your biggest challenges, and walk into Day 1 already transformed this is the place to start
OPTION1:
Pre-Con 1: Your Classroom Management Roadmap Power Moves for Daily Success
Every teacher knows the moment when the classroom starts to slip off-task chatter, long transitions, attention fading, and the pull to manage instead of teach. This high-impact Pre-Con tackles classroom management at its root: instruction.
Grounded in Whole Brain Teaching and practical Tier I practices, André Deshotel will show you exactly how to build a classroom environment where engagement is high, behavior is predictable, and learning stays at the center.
You’ll Learn How To:
Ledby:André Deshotel
Lock in attention from the start with engagement routines that eliminate drift
Use predictable systems that reduce confusion and disruption
Build transitions so smooth they run themselves
Redirect behavior without losing momentum
Create a calm, highly engaged classroom where instruction does the heavy lifting
YOU'LL LEAVE WITH READY-TO-IMPLEMENT ROADMAPS THAT BOOST ENGAGEMENT, MINIMIZE BEHAVIORAL FRICTION, AND MAKE TEACHING FEEL LIGHTER, MORE JOYFUL, AND FAR MORE EFFECTIVE.
OPTION2:
Pre-Con 2: Your Instructional Coaching Roadmap–Evaluating, Supporting, & Coaching Tier I Practices
Led by: Hope King
For the first time in GYTO history, we’re offering a half-day intensive designed specifically for instructional coaches, deans, APs, and leaders who coach teachers.
If you are responsible for supporting instruction on your campus, this Pre-Con delivers the clarity, structure, and systems you need to make your coaching cycles more intentional, more effective, and more sustainable.
Hope Will Guide Your Through:
How to evaluate classrooms using the Five to Thrive lens
How to identify breakdowns in Tier I instruction before they become school-wide issues
How to design coaching cycles that are clear, targeted, and aligned to outcomes
How to coach teachers into consistent Tier I practices using small, measurable steps
How to ensure your feedback actually leads to change—not confusion A coaching framework that strengthens instruction campus-wide and gives every teacher the support they need to grow. You
Trust us...
’ll Walk Away With:
THE PERFECT START TO YOUR GYTO EXPERIENCE THE PERFECT START TO YOUR GYTO EXPERIENCE
Whether you ’ re a classroom teacher looking to regain instructional control or a coach/leader looking to elevate Tier I practices across an entire campus, these Pre-Cons set the tone for an incredible GYTO experience.
Deep dive Real strategies Immediate impact
Your best year of teaching and leading, starts HERE!
PRE CON EVENTS
8:30 AM - 12 PM
8:30 AM - 12 PM PRE CON EVENTS
00-7:00 PM EVENING ENTERTAINMENT 1 3 4 2
12:00-5:00 PM
DOORS OPEN FOR GYTO OPENING CELEBRATION & KEYNOTE
GYTO OPENING CELEBRATION & EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
s c h e d u l e i s s u b j e c t t o c h a n g e MONDA JULY 6 SUNDAY JULY 5 WEDNES JULY 8
TUESDAY JULY 7
8:30-10:00 AM OPENING KEYNOTE
10:30-11:45 AM BREAKOUT 1
BEGINNING AT 5:00 PM 6:00-8:00 PM YOUR SMALL GROUP PLANLIVE MODEL LESSON YOUR SMALL GROUP PLANLIVE MODEL LESSON WEDNESDAY FEATURE:
11:45-1:15 PM LUNCH
1:15-2:30 PM BREAKOUT 2
2:45-4:00 PM BREAKOUT 3
YOUR TIER I MASTER CLASS EXPERIENCE 8:30-11:30 PLUS LIVE MODEL LESSONS PLUS LIVE MODEL LESSONS
11:30-1:00 PM LUNCH 1:00-2:15 PM BREAKOUT 1
2:30-3:45 PM BREAKOUT 2
5:00-7:00 PM EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
8:30-10:00 AM BREAKOUT 1 10:30-12:00 PM BREAKOUT 2 12:00-2:00 PM LUNCH 2:00-4:00 PM EVENING ENTERTAINMENT YOU DONT WANT TO MISS THIS! NO MORNING KEY
GRADE LEVEL SESSIONS GRADE LEVEL SESSIONS
YOUR TIER I MASTER CLASS EXPERIENCE: LIVE MODEL LESSON
Session Presented by: Hope King, Wade King & Andre Deshotel
DE-ESCALATION, RIGHT NOW! RESPONDING TO CHALLENGING BEHAVIOR
Session Presented by: Andre Deshotel, Certified Whole Brain Teaching© Trainer
ACTIVATE THE SUPERPOWERS: NEURODIVERGENT BRILLIANCE IN EVERY CLASSROOM
Session Presented by: stephanie higgs
SUPER TROUPER STRATEGIES: GIMME, GIMME, GIMME, GAMES
Session Presented by: Kara Oliverson & Kirsten Gunderson
GRADE LEVEL SESSIONS GRADE LEVEL SESSIONS
THE STAR
STRATEGY: THE STAR STRATEGY:
DIFFERENTIATION THAT STANDS OUT
Session Presented by: Amelia Capotosta
COLOR, CUE, RELEASE: DIFFERENTIATION THAT WORKS (AND FADES!)
Session Presented by: chyna lynner
ENGAGING, MOTIVATING & MANAGING HARD TO REACH & DISRUPTIVE STUDENTS
Session Presented by: Brian Mendler
COLLECT → CONNECT → CORRECT: INSTRUCTIONAL DECISIONS MADE SIMPLE
Session Presented by: chyna lynner
BECAUSE WE DON’T HAVE AN INTERVENTION PROBLEM… WE HAVE A TIER I PROBLEM.
Kick-start Your Conference With a One-of-a-Kind, Highimpact Morning
With Hope King, Wade King & Andre Deshotel
Get ready for something GYTO has never done before. This three-hour immersive master class is designed to ground your entire conference experience in the most powerful place it can start: Tier I instruction. You’ll evaluate your practices, watch systems come to life with real students, and leave with the clarity and confidence to transform instruction the moment you return to your classroom.
PART 1: GYTO S INSTRUCTIONAL PLAYBOOK
Evaluate. Prioritize. Transform.
With Hope King and Wade King, you’ll examine your current instructional practices through the lens of Five to Thrive. You’ll identify the gaps, the inconsistencies, and the places where small shifts can create big impact.
This is not theory This is clarity Before you step into any other workshop, you’ll know exactly what you ’ re here to learn, strengthen, and take home.
PART 3: ENGAGEMENT & WHOLE BRAIN TEACHING
Where Five to Thrive Meets the Energy Your Students Crave
Andre will break down the engagement strategies that make Five to Thrive come alive with movement, accountability, whole brain teaching, and the instructional energy needed to keep students locked in all day long.
You’ll leave with practical, high-impact strategies you can use starting Day One of school
PART 2: SEE IT IN ACTION
Andre Deshotel’s Live Model Lesson
Thinkofthisasthefirstdayofschool.It’sliveand unfiltered You’llwatchAndreDeshotelteachafullmodel lessonwithrealstudentsashedemonstrates:
Howtobuildinstructionalsystemswithpurpose Howtoevaluateeffectivenessinrealtime Howtopivot,adapt,andcourse-correct HowtouseTierIpracticestopreventbehaviors beforetheystart
ThisexperiencewillredefinewhatTierIcanandshould looklike.Wecanguarantee:you’veneverseenanything likethisbefore.
PART 4: LIVE Q&A
Your Questions. Answered in Real Time.
Bring your burning questions about instruction, engagement, management, or anything you just watched.
You’ll be able to submit questions live and get real, honest answers from Hope, Wade, and Andre.
DE-ESCALATION, RIGHT NOW! RESPONDING TO CHALLENGING BEHAVIOR
Session Presented by: Andre
Deshotel, Certified
Whole Brain Teaching©
Trainer
From flippin’ chairs to complaining about math, and everything in between, this interactive, informative session will empower and equip educators with effective, actionable skills to de-escalate and address behavior on-the-spot to maintain a safe, productive learning environment. Even the best preventative practices can’t eliminate every behavior. When challenges surface, our response becomes the key to maintaining momentum and protecting learning time.
During this session we will:
Lean on simple, accessible neuroscience to understand behavior as a language. Create real-world classroom behavioral scenarios.
Model and practice how to intentionally respond to behaviors in the heat of the moment. Break negative cycles and secure a positive, productive learning environment.
Get ready to go back to your school and run your classroom with MORE confidence, feel MORE in control, and become MORE skillful in de-escalating behavior, so you can do what you showed up to do... Get Your Teach On!
Session Research
Bailey, B. (2015). Conscious Discipline Building Resilient Classrooms.
Biffle, C. (2023). Whole Brain Teaching: 2nd Edition.
Session Description
Delahooke, M. (2019). Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children's Behavioral Challenges.
Desautels, L. (2023). Intentional Neuroplasticity: Moving Our Nervous Systems and Educational System Toward Post-Traumatic Growth.
English, C. (2024). It’s Never Just About the Behavior.
ACTIVATE THE SUPERPOWERS:
NEURODIVERGENT BRILLIANCE IN EVERY CLASSROOM
Session Presented by: stephanie higgs
Activate the Superpowers is a high-energy, superhero-themed session that will leave you feeling like you just stepped out of a comic book and into your most powerful teaching self. Join Stephanie Higgs (Little Miss Gifted) as she equips you with the tools to identify and support neurodivergent learners, whose brains are wired differently but brilliantly. Through interactive games, hands-on tools, and real-talk strategies, you’ll learn how to create a classroom where every student feels seen, supported, and celebrated. You’ll laugh, you’ll learn, and you’ll leave ready to be the sidekick every neurodivergent hero deserves.
Session Research
ADDitude. (n.d.). Evidence‑based ADHD strategies. ADDitude Magazine. Retrieved from https://www.additudemag.com/ Autism Level UP! (n.d.). Sensory and regulation tools. Retrieved from https://www.autismlevelup.com/ Holderness, P., & Holderness, K. (2024). ADHD is awesome: A guide to (mostly) thriving with ADHD (E. Hallowell, Foreword). Harper Horizon. Kircher‑Morris, E., & Morin, A. (2025). Neurodiversity‑affirming schools: Transforming practices so all students feel accepted & supported. Free Spirit Professional. McCabe, J. (2024). How to ADHD: An insider’s guide to working with your brain (not against it). Harmony/Rodale/Convergent Neff, M. A. (2024). Self‑care for autistic people: 100+ ways to recharge, de‑stress, and unmask! Adams Media. Nerenberg, J. (2020). Divergent mind: Thriving in a world that wasn’t designed for you. HarperOne. Rose, T. (2016). The end of average: How we succeed in a world that values sameness. HarperCollins. Rose, T. (2013, June). The myth of average [Video]. TEDxSonomaCounty. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4eBmyttcfU4 Silberman, S. (2015). NeuroTribes: The legacy of autism and the future of neurodiversity. Avery. Zakreski, M. (2024). Neurodiversity playbook: How neurodivergent people can crack the code of living in a neurotypical world. Gifted Unlimited.
SUPER TROUPER STRATEGIES:
GIMME, GIMME, GIMME, GAMES
Session Presented by: Kara Oliverson & Kirsten Gunderson
Bring the energy and excitement into your classroom with Super Trouper strategies and engaging, research-backed gaming techniques designed to meet the needs of any classroom. In this practical session, you'll explore ready-to-use templates and activities that are proven effective in supporting diverse learners. These strategies are easy to implement and adaptable to various abilities, helping you create an inclusive environment where students feel supported and motivated to learn. Join us to learn how to incorporate these evidence-based engagement techniques and transform your classroom into a vibrant space of growth and success, making every student feel like a star.
Session Research
Marzano, R. (2010). The New Art and Science of Teaching: Using Games to Enhance Student Achievement
Plass, J. (2016). The Foundations of Game-Based Learning
Session Description
Dichev, C. & Dicheva, D. (2017). Gamifying Education: What is Known, What is Believed and What Remains Uncertain: A Critical Review.
Mandell, B. (2024). 5 Benefits of Gamification
Here s what you ll learn:
HE STAR STRATEGY:
DIFFERENTIATION THAT STANDS OUT
ssion Presented by: Amelia Capotosta
unique needs, especially those who are reading below grade level This session is designed to help ups that support learners at multiple grade levels while ensuring every student can grow and thrive. who practice precision and teamwork to dazzle the crowd, your small groups can bring energy, n Grounded in research this session will provide you with evidence-based practices to tailor
Informal Data Collection: Use quick, actionable assessments to identify reading gaps and formskill-based small groups
Planning for Multiple Grades: Design flexible group structures and lesson plans that address a range of grade-level expectations while scaffolding for below-grade-level readers.
Engaging Instructional Strategies: Implement fun, targeted activities for phonics, fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary that meet students where they are while challenging themto grow
Fluid Grouping: Learn how to keep groups dynamic by regularly reassessing and reshuffling based on student progress and needs.
Building Confidence: Use strategies that engage struggling readers and build their confidence to take risks and succeed. By the end of this session, you’ll leave with a game plan to organize, instruct, and adapt your small group literacy instruction no matter your students’ starting point or grade level Let’s ensure that your small groups truly shine, helping every student become a star in their own literacy journey!
Are you ready to bring focus and excitement to your literacy small groups? Join us to make your teaching sparkle across every grade! n every classroom, students come with unique needs, especially those who are reading below grade level This session is designed to help you create flexible, engaging small groups that support learners at multiple grade levels while ensuring every student can grow and thrive Like the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, who practice precision and teamwork to dazzle the crowd, your small groups can bring energy, focus, and purpose to literacy instruction. Grounded in research this session will provide you with evidence-based practices to tailor instruction for all learners
Here’s what you’ll learn:
Informal Data Collection: Use quick, actionable assessments to identify reading gaps and formskill-based small groups.
Planning for Multiple Grades: Design flexible group structures and lesson plans that address a range of grade-level expectations while scaffolding for below-grade-level readers
Engaging Instructional Strategies: Implement fun, targeted activities for phonics, fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary that meet students where they are while challenging themto grow.
Fluid Grouping: Learn how to keep groups dynamic by regularly reassessing and reshuffling based on student progress and needs Building Confidence: Use strategies that engage struggling readers and build their confidence to take risks and succeed By the end of this session, you’ll leave with a game plan to organize, instruct, and adapt your small group literacy instruction no matter your students’ starting point or grade level. Let’s ensure that your small groups truly shine, helping every student become a star in their own literacy journey!
Are you ready to bring focus and excitement to your literacy small groups? Join us to make your teaching sparkle across every grade!
Session Research
Shanahan, T. (2023). Teaching practices for improving reading comprehension and literacy skills
ReadWorks. (2021). ReadWorks resources and research-based reading comprehension lessons
CORE. (2020). Teaching reading sourcebook: Core phonics survey. Consortium on Reading Excellence, Inc.
Florida Center for Reading Research. (2022). Evidence-based reading instruction resources and strategies
COLOR, CUE, RELEASE: DIFFERENTIATION THAT WORKS (AND FADES!)
Session Presented by: Ms. Chyna
Every student can access grade-level content — they just need the right entry point. In this high-energy session, educators will learn how to use intentional scaffolds that support students without creating longterm dependence. We’ll explore practical strategies like color-coding for clarity, visual-to-verbal prompting, sentence frames that evolve into independent responses, and gradual-release models that actually make sense in real classrooms. Participants will see how small adjustments can transform lessons, increase accessibility, and build student confidence across content areas.
Teachers will leave with practical ideas and actionable strategies that make differentiation feel doable, not daunting. You’ll learn how to design supports with a built-in fading plan, collaborate effectively with general education colleagues, and create pathways for students to move from guided practice to independence. Whether you're in special education or general education, this session will give you the tools to help every learner grow — with scaffolds that empower today and fade away as student skills strengthen.
Session Research
Session Description
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC, 2021). High-Leverage Practice 15: Provide Scaffolded Support.
Fisher, D., & Frey, N. (2021). Better Learning Through Structured Teaching (ASCD).
Tomlinson, C. A. (2014). The Differentiated Classroom: Responding to the Needs of All Learners (Ruta Maestra, 2nd ed.).
Brownell, M., Smith, S., Crockett, J., & Griffin, C. (2012). Inclusive Instruction: Evidence-Based Practices for Teaching Students with Disabilities.
Tomlinson, C. A. (2017). How to Differentiate Instruction in Academically Diverse Classrooms (3rd ed.). ASCD.
ENGAGING,
MOTIVATING &
MANAGING
HARD TO REACH & DISRUPTIVE STUDENTS
Session Presented by: Brian Mendler
Plagued by severe undiagnosed ADHD and reading difficulties, I began disrupting class in 4th grade. I believed my peers would laugh at me for being “dumb” so I made sure they laughed at me for being “bad” instead. I was defiant, disruptive, and relatively unmotivated. I was “that one kid” that drove my teachers crazy.
This seminar will explain mindsets and specific approaches needed to work successfully with challenging youth. Discover how to defuse any student, at any time using our proven step-by-step process and other defusing techniques. Discover ways to teach students self-management skills and to make responsible decisions. Learn the best strategies for connecting with difficult youth who put up walls and the number one strategy to stop students who love to argue in their tracks. You will leave inspired and with the belief that you can be successful with any student in your class!
Session Research
The seminar Engaging, Motivating and Managing Hard to Reach, and Disruptive Students was designed from our Discipline with Dignity Program The Discipline with Dignity Program is an applied program of research-base strategies, techniques and methods Many more research examples can be found in the ASCD book, Discipline with Dignity 4 Edition, which was used to develop this seminar. th
1
Wang M C Haertel, G D , & Walberg, H J (1997) Learning influences In H J Walberg & G D Haertel (eds ), Psychology and Educational Practice, (199-211).Berkeley: McCuthchan.
2
Dwyer K. Osher, D.. and Warger, C. (1998). Early Warning. Timely Response: A guide to Safe Schools, Washington, DC; U.S. Dept. of Education..
2
Sugai, George, Horner, Robert (2002). Behavior Psychology in the schools; The Evolution of Discipline Practices: School-Wide Positive Behavior Supports.
COLLECT → CONNECT →
CORRECT:
INSTRUCTIONAL DECISIONS MADE SIMPLE
Session Presented by: Ms. Chyna
What if instructional decisions could follow one simple, repeatable cycle?
In this session, we’ll break down a three-step framework Collect → Connect → Correct to help teachers transform data into clear, actionable teaching moves in both inclusion and pull-out settings. This session takes the mystery out of data by showing you exactly what to gather, how to make meaning of it, and how to adjust instruction in real time to support student growth.
Participants will learn how to COLLECT meaningful academic data using quick, data collecting systems (digital, paper-pencil, or both), CONNECT that data back to IEP goals and learning targets, and CORRECT instruction with purposeful small-group plans, scaffolded supports, and progress-monitoring routines that actually fit into a school day.
Teachers will walk away with ready-to-use tools that streamline decision-making, boost instructional clarity, and support consistent student growth across settings.
Session Research
Session Description
DeLussey, S. (2024). The Intentional IEP: A Team Approach to Better Outcomes for Students and Their Families. Jossey-Bass/Wiley.
Bianco, S. D. (2010). Improving student outcomes: Data-driven instruction and fidelity of implementation in a Response to Intervention (RTI) model. Teaching Exceptional Children Plus, 6(5), Article 1.
Bambrick-Santoyo, P. (2019). Driven by data 2.0: A practical guide to improve instruction. JosseyBass.
Meet your Presenters
HOPE KING
@HEYHOPEKING
Hope King is a veteran educator with 18 years of experience, a national speaker, and the co-founder of Get Your Teach On and Rock Your School. She is recognized for her ability to integrate research-based Tier I instructional practices with intentional, high-engagement strategies that elevate both teacher effectiveness and student learning.
For the past four years, Hope has served as a Campus Implementation Specialist, leading the GYTO Content Team in a multi-year effort to strengthen instruction across more than 30 campuses. Through comprehensive, yearlong support—including lesson modeling, instructional coaching, and system development—she and her team partner with schools to improve Tier I practices from the beginning of the year to the end.
Hope is also the author of The Wild Card and the creator of the widely implemented “Five to Thrive” instructional framework. She presents nationally on instructional design, student engagement, classroom management, and schoolwide systems for consistency. In every setting, her mission remains clear: to equip educators with high-impact, sustainable practices that ensure every student receives rigorous, meaningful, and joyful learning experiences every day.
WADE KING
@HEYWADEKING
Wade King attended Anderson University, where he received both his undergraduate degree and his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision. Wade has been recognized as a District Choice Teacher and Teacher of The Year. His students’ outstanding achievement scores and growth on standardized tests were some of the highest scores in the state of South Carolina. Mr. King attributes his students’ success to a “ no excuse ” policy that he models himself. The relationships he fosters with his students, their families, and community is the driving force behind his teaching. Mr. King’s classroom is filled with music, engagement, rigor, and discipline. He strives to prepare his students for their futures and not their pasts, while also placing an emphasis on global learning.
Meet your Presenters
ANDRE DESHOTEL
@BRAINENGAGER
Andre Deshotel has over 15 years of experience in education, including roles as a classroom teacher, district instructional coach, and elementary assistant administrator. In his current role as Teacher Support Coach, he strengthens teacher capacity in classroom management and engagement by providing practical, effective, research-based strategies to enhance student learning.
n Teaching Presenter for over ten years, Andre has designed and delivered t nationwide. He is dedicated to jumping into the trenches to support teachers gful, hands-on guidance.
AMELIA CAPOTOSTA
@AMELIACAPOTOSTA
Amelia Capotosta is an Ohio educator, who brings a contagious amount of enthusiasm, positivity, and creativity to the education world. She is a forever optimist, and is passionate about many things including her family, students, books, pairing education and engagement. With classroom experience from elementary to middle school, Amelia has first-hand knowledge of the effectiveness of researchbased strategies in the classroom, and how to design and implement them. She has spent dedicated time creating research-based resources that bring books to life in classrooms all over. Amelia knows that true comprehension takes place across all subject areas, and is able to help educators and administrators take actionable steps towards cross-curricular teaching that is engaging, meaningful, rigorous, and effective. She is certified in Orton Gillingham methodology and has worked to support thousands of educators, adminstrators, coaches, and specialists on the research and science backed methods to teach reading. As a collegiate instructor, national speaker, presenter, educator, and consultant, Amelia has had the opportunity to inspire and support thousands of educators, administrators, coaches, and specialists. She focuses her sessions on research, engagement, innovative, and ready-to-implement ideas; she is here for you!
Meet your Presenters
STEPHANIE HIGGS
@LITTLEMISSGIFTED
Stephanie Higgs, @littlemissgifted on Instagram, is an award-winning, Nashville-living gifted educator and differentiation coach with deep admiration and respect for the neurodivergent. Stephanie is a quick thinking, fast talking, passionate keynote speaker, author, and international presenter. Stephanie is known for offering sessions with immediate, easily implemented, research and evidence-based, FUN takeaways. She’s your #1 hype girl, here to love and serve. You’ll leave her session energized, equipped, and empowered for an educational glow up!
KARA OLIVERSON & KIRSTEN GUNDERSON
@THOSEUTAHSISTERS
We are sisters, 18 months apart, who come from a long line of educators and both currently teach at the same school in Northern Utah. Kara has 9 years of mathematical expertise in the classroom, with a diverse background spanning middle and high school. Kirsten has 8 years of education expertise, ranging from elementary special education to secondary special education. You can find us creating magic by serving on the Get Your Teach On Magic Squad. We are both advocates for education, dedicated moms, and full-blown Disney Adults.
Meet your Presenters
BRIAN MENDLER
@BRIANMENDLER
Brian Mendler has extensive experience working with challenging students in general ed, selfcontained, and inclusion settings.He provides staff development training for K-12 educators throughout the world with the focus on how to be successful with even the most difficult students. He trains tens of thousands of educators every year and is a highly regarded dynamic speaker. Educators love his seminars, because he can provide strategies that work immediately for today’s youth.
CHYNA LYNNER
@ESPECIALLYSPED
Ms. Chyna is a special education teacher, creator, and presenter known for her high-energy, student-centered approach to inclusive instruction. She specializes in behavior support, differentiation, and designing accessible academic systems that help all learners thrive. Through her platform EspeciallySped, she shares practical strategies, classroom inspiration, and real-life teaching moments that uplift educators across the country. Chyna is passionate about empowering teachers with simple, sustainable tools that build student independence, confidence, and meaningful relationships. Her sessions are fast-paced, practical, and rooted in the belief that every learner deserves support, celebration, and a chance to shine.
FOUR DAYS OF CONTENT
Four days filled with research-based workshops that will guide you in creating rigorous and engaging lessons all year long.
KEYNOTES & LIVE MODEL LESSONS HANDS ON WORKSHOPS
Learn from influential educators and motivational speakers that not only ignite inspiration but also deliver powerful, practical insights. You’ll also get to experience live model lessons with real-time coaching that brings strategies to life So you return to your classroom energized and equipped to create real educational magic!
Training specific for your position from some of today’s top educators and administrators who are experts at their craft with strategies that can be implemented the very next day!
INCREDIBLE NIGHTLY ENTERTAINMENT 2026 SWAG CERTIFICATE FOR 24 PD HOURS
We're celebrating 10 incredible years with some of our favorite artists and entertainers.True champions of our community who continue to show up, inspire, and make the GYTO experience unforgettable!
Swag that will make you want to bring an extra suitcase! Not to mention all the free goodies from our sponsors!
Each attendee receives a professional development certificate for 24 hours of quality professional development over the conference’s four days!
GYTO 4-day all access pass: $659
Register now with just a deposit! Final payment won’t be due until March 2026! Invoice, check, and purchase order options are also available for schools and districts.
R E G I S T E R N O W L E T ’ S G E T S T A R T E D ! LET’S GET STARTED!
Register now with just a deposit! Final payment won’t be due until March 2026! Invoice, check, and purchase order options are also available for schools and districts.
INTRODUCING TICKET ADD-ONS INTRODUCING TICKET ADD-ONS
Get the chance to have an enhanced experience at our National Conference by adding on to your ticket. You can purchase any of these options when you register for the conference.
VIP at $199
Make the most of GYTO Fest 2026 with our VIP Experience! It’s limited and will sell out!
It includes:
Daily Lunch + Free Morning Coffee
Reserved VIP Seating
Early Registration & Early Shopping at the GYTO Collective VIP Lounge + Presenter Networking & Book Signing Access
Dedicated VIP Entrance, Concierge, & Registration Line
Exclusive VIP Lanyard & Special Photo Moments
conference tee $30 Lunch $26 per day
Save time AND money by pre-purchasing your lunch. $26/day online (vs. $30/day on-site) Includes lunch Monday–Wednesday
Avoid long lines and crowded restaurants with dedicated pickup Highly recommended for all attendees.
Menu preview: BBQ Plate, Italian Pasta + Grilled Chicken, or a Burrito Bowl (with vegetarian and gluten-friendly options). Full menu available when you begin registering for the conference .
Make sure to snag your official GYTO Fest 2026 Conference Tee!
Pre-ordering is the only way to guarantee your size and secure the perfect keepsake. Plus, you’ll save by ordering now because prices go up on site!
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