january 18-20,2025 | Las Vegas, NV | Westgate Las Vegas
Dear GYTO Educator Community,
As we gather in the vibrant city of Vegas for the Get Your Teach On Vegas Conference 2025, we are filled with gratitude for each and every one of you who has chosen to spend your time here with us! Your commitment to education is a beacon of inspiration, and your presence fuels the collective passion for transformative teaching.
Thank you for being a vital part of this educational movement. In a world often overshadowed by negativity, we are breaking through barriers and dedicating time to be in a supportive community that shares the same fervor for impactful education.
Our content is not just a curriculum; it's a catalyst for change. The actionable strategies you'll gain are designed to be seamlessly integrated into your classrooms, sparking a positive revolution in instruction. Together, we are shaping processes that will redefine the way we teach and leave an indelible mark on the lives of our students.
Get ready to spend the next 3 days with educators who will lift you up, love on you, support you, and make you feel a part of something bigger than ever. Once you walk through these doors, you are officially part of the GYTO family forever.
Here's to a conference filled with shared wisdom, innovative ideas, and the unwavering belief that education has the power to transform lives. Let's embark on this journey together and make a lasting impact on the future.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Chris, LaNesha, and Amelia
WHY GYTO?
Our Get Your Teach On Leadership and Content Development team has worked to create an engaging and transformational educator professional development experience that aligns directly to the needs of schools and teachers across the country by helping educators develop consistent best instructional practices and processes from start to finish to accelerate student learning These evidence and research-based best practices, strategies, and techniques will directly impact overall educator effectiveness and student achievement, transforming instruction and student learning like never before.
BUILDING THE
TRANSFORMATIVE TEACHER
PLANNING & PREPARATION
THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
Intentional and meaningful planning, using specific grade level content standards and high-quality instructional materials that address the needs of all learners and support mastery of learning goals
Creates and maintains a collaborative, safe, efficient, and effective learning environment that supports each student’s diverse needs and promotes recognition of student’s diverse personal experiences to build relationships of trust within the classroom.
BEST INSTRUCTIONAL PRACTICES
STUDENT ACCOUNTABILITY & ENGAGEMENT
DATA & PROGRESS MONITORING
Implementation of evidence and research-based best instructional strategies and techniques to accelerate student learning, growth, and achievement through rigorous and consistent instruction, including opportunities for problem solving, critical and creative thinking, meaningful and purposeful discourse, and high-impact instructional delivery
Builds engaging, intentional, and rigorous learning experiences through setting high expectations and consistency within instructional practices that requires all students to take ownership of and be held accountable for their individual learning.
Continually monitors and analyzes student learning and progress towards mastery of learning goals for all students using a variety of progress monitoring and assessment techniques to make immediate instructional decisions that support student growth and acceleration.
Get Your Teach On sessions are intentionally selected for attendees to experience the full professional development experience. Each session is hands-on, interactive, collaborative, and allows time for teachers to take what they’ve learned and apply it to their specific grade level standards or content area Sessions are structured to meet the needs of all learners in classrooms, modeling best practices for direct and immediate implementation in classrooms.
TEACHER EFFECTIVENESS
Develops strong foundational teaching practices and commitments that support best practices and professional growth through consistent reflection of professional practices to support student learning, development, and achievement at a high level.
LAS VEGAS
BOOK A ROOM
Las Vegas Conference Guide 2025
schedule is subject to change
SATURDAY JANUARY 18
1 3 2
3:00-7:00pm REGISTRATION
6:00pm
DOORS OPEN FOR GYTO OPENING CELEBRATION & KEYNOTE
7:00-9:30pm GYTO OPENING CELEBRATION & KEYNOTE
MONDAY JANUARY 20
8:30-9:55am SESSION 1
10:05-11:30am (85) SESSION 2
11:30-1:00pm LUNCH
1:00-2:25om SESSION 3
2:25pm GYTO SEND OFF
SUNDAY JANUARY 19
8:00-9:50am OPENING KEYNOTE
10:20-12:00pm SESSION 1
12:00-1:30pm LUNCH
1:30-2:55pm SESSION 2
3:05-4:30pm SESSION 3 5:30pm GYTO SNEAKER BALL
UPGRADE YOUR TICKET! VIP UPGRADES COMING SOON!
Get front VIP seating for all keynote sessions, access to an exclusive presenter book signing event, separate VIP entrance and registration, and more!
THREE DAYS OF CONTENT
Three days filled with research-based workshops that will guide you in creating rigorous and engaging lessons all year long
INSPIRING KEYNOTES HANDS ON WORKSHOPS
Keynote presentations from influential educators and motivational speakers that will leave you more inspired than ever to head back into your classrooms and create 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!
GYTO PRE-GAME CELEBRATION FREE SWAG CERTIFICATE FOR 15 PD HOURS
Our Las Vegas Education Celebration kicks off the conference on Saturday night! This is a party you don’t want to miss!
Swag that will make you want to bring an extra suitcase! Not to mention all the free goodies from our sponsors!
The Education Celebration of the Year kicks off the conference on Sunday night! This is a party you don’t want to miss!
gyto 3-day all access pass: $499
Register now with just a deposit! Final payment won’t be due until December 2024! Invoice and check options are also available for schools and districts.
A ROOM
The Instructional Leader: Prioritizing
for Instructional Shifts
Leaders! Grab your goggles, your lab coat, and your instructional pain points, because it’s time to step into the lab….the GYTO Instructional Lab. Join Hope and Wade King for ""The Instructional Leader - Prioritizing for Instructional Shifts"" workshop, where we're injecting a dose of mad science into the art and science of teaching! This session will catapult you into the heart of instructional impact by rediscovering the magic in best instructional practices. In a world obsessed with the science of education, we've inadvertently left classrooms longing for the artistic touch that makes teaching and learning truly transformative. Fear not, as Hope & Wade unveil the secrets to seamlessly blending research, curriculums, standards, and cognitive demands with the artistry of teaching. Get ready to turn any curriculum or program into a concoction of success that leaves your learners electrified, engaged, and demonstrating academic gains.. It's time to unleash the mad scientist within and revolutionize your approach to instruction!
Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Teacher
Sometimes teachers feel leaders "forgot where they came from" or are too far removed from the classroom to know what is "really" going on!
In this interactive session, Hayward will share evidence-based strategies leaders can implement to create a culture of administrator collaboration with teachers; improve overall school climate and teacher morale; and create a psychologically safe place for teachers to grow, be innovative, and develop into teacher leaders. Leaders will be provided actionable techniques that will help them protect teachers' instructional time, facilitate purposeful professional development, effectively support teachers' classroom management and discipline, and help teachers improve classroom instruction! Get ready to have the best school year ever as you Act Like a Leader, and Think Like a Teacher!
Instructional Systems and Structures for School Wide Growth
"Shake It Off" and embrace the rhythm of effective instruction! In this presentation, we'll explore how establishing robust school-wide systems and structures can be the "key" to unlocking academic success. Just like Taylor Swift's catchy tunes, a well-orchestrated instructional framework sets the stage for a harmonious learning environment. We'll delve into how "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" with outdated methods by embracing innovative instructional strategies, systems, and data-driven decision-making. We'll showcase how these structures create a "Blank Space" for personalized learning experiences tailored to each student. Moreover, we'll emphasize the importance of "Style" in instructional delivery, illustrating how structured frameworks empower educators to infuse student-centered tasks in their everyday lessons while maintaining alignment with academic standards. Just like Taylor Swift's evolution in music, instructional systems evolve to meet the dynamic needs of students and the educational landscape. In conclusion, by adopting Taylor Swift's mantra of "Fearless" experimentation, administrators can lead the charge in establishing school-wide systems and structures that amplify instructional excellence, ensuring that every student's educational journey is a chart-topping success!
Creating a Culture of Excellence
Join Kellee Meritt in an engaging and insightful session tailored for administrators who are eager to transform their classrooms and schools into hubs of excellence. In this dynamic presentation, she will share proven strategies and practical insights on how to establish and maintain a culture of excellence within your classroom and school community. Discover the essential elements of setting and articulating high expectations for students and the overall learning environment. Learn how to foster a no-excuses mentality that encourages accountability - “Every Student, Every Time.” Explore effective strategies to inspire and empower your reluctant learners. Join us for this transformative session and equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to create a thriving educational culture where excellence is not just a goal but a way of life.
The Vertical Alignment Club: Strategies for K-12 Aligned Excellence
Get ready to be a member of the iconic Breakfast Club as we transport ourselves back in time to revolutionize education through an exciting professional development session! Join us for a dynamic exploration of vertical alignment in PreK-12 schools, using research-based strategies. Strap on your leg warmers and tease your hair as we embark on a journey to dive deep into the era of power standards. We will uncover the essential standards that drive educational success, and learn how to align them vertically for a curriculum that rocks! LaNesha and Amelia will lead this experience with hands-on activities that bridge the gap between theory and practice. Leave with tangible resources and tools to implement vertical alignment strategies in your own school, ensuring that learning transcends generations. We don’t want you stuck in detention forever! This process will propel your school into the future- where vertical alignment transforms schools! Grab your scrunchies and synthesizers – it's time to get vertical!
THE SCIENCE O How to Get Teachers Fired Up About STEM
Whether you ’ re inspiring students, motivating teachers or sparking creativity and innovation, the name of the game is engagement. With nearly 4 million followers and over 1.5 billion views of his science videos on social media, Steve Spangler knows something about the art and science of creating experiences that spread like a virus. The secret is knowing how to turn ordinary activities into unforgettable experiences that inspire children to lean in and learn more.
In this highly interactive and engaging presentation, Steve shares the science behind turning transactional activities into transformational experiences that change the way both students and staff see, feel, and think about STEM. Get ready to participate in hands-on demonstrations and experience Steve’s unique brand of eye-catching science that will unleash your creativity and get you thinking diRerently about the next school year.
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.
W A D E K I N G
Hope King is a decorated educator with over eleven years of experience teaching first through sixth grades. Hope holds a Master’s Degree in Reading. Since working and traveling with Get Your Teach On, Hope has trained thousands of educators. Hope enjoys meeting teachers from all over the country as she shares her passion for student engagement and rigorous content-driven instruction. Hope is the popular blogger behind the website Elementary Shenanigans and is a teacher author for the website Teachers Pay Teachers. Hope is the co-author of the book “The Wild Card” written with her husband Wade King. Hope is a cofounder of the Get Your Teach On Conference.
H O P E K I N G
MEETYO
Amelia enthus 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 research-based 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 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!
A M E L I A C A P O T O S T A
LaNesha Tabb is a seasoned educator, author, speaker, and content creator from Indianapolis, Indiana with over 18 years of teaching and professional development experience. LaNesha creates teaching resources, courses, and professional development, specifically in writing and social studies from a primary educator. LaNesha’s content is geared toward teachers who desire to think out of the box through rigorous, and globally connected resources, books, and ideas. LaNesha has worked with thousands of educators across the United States through conferences and custom professional development sessions. LaNesha specializes in helping primary educators master their writing block and teaching culturally relevant social studies topics.
L A N E S H A T A B B
Lindsey began w formativ and developing teachers and leaders within the same district. She has worn many hats within Orange County Public Schools - from nurturing young learners as a dedicated classroom teacher to guiding district-wide initiatives as a mathematics and science coach. Her passion for educational leadership led her to serve as a senior administrator at the district level, where she had the privilege of implementing transformative policies to enhance student success and currently serves as a principal in turnaround schools Her academic pursuits led her to the University of Central Florida, where she earned both her undergraduate degree in elementary education and a graduate degree in educational leadership. Equipped with a solid foundation in pedagogy and a visionary approach to leadership, she has always strived to create an environment conducive to learning and growth, particularly within Title I schools where the need for transformational leadership is paramount Described as a high-energy individual with an unwavering commitment to excellence, she has been honored to receive recognition as both an educator and administrator Her dedication to fostering a culture of achievement has been acknowledged through various awards, culminating in being named a top-three finalist for Principal of the Year. As she continues her journey in education, she remains steadfast in her mission to empower students and educators alike, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their academic pursuits and holds a belief that excellence is not an option but the only pathway to success
L I N D S E Y S M E S T A D
Rachel Mott brings over 13 years of dedicated experience in education to her role as an enthusiastic Principal in Orange County Public Schools. Starting her career in the classroom as a Kindergarten Teacher, she has also served as an ESE teacher, a MTSS Coach, an award-winning Instructional Coach, an awardwinning Reading Specialist, and an Assistant Principal continually fostering environments where students and staff are excited to arrive and excel each morning! Rachel’s passion for education was ignited by the positive influences of her own teachers, propelling her to create similarly impactful experiences for others Known for her creative and energetic leadership, particularly in Title I schools, she has a knack for transforming educational challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth Her commitment shines in her ability to orchestrate school days that feel more like adventures in learning rather than routine schedules. She frequently creates and facilitates engaging and effective Professional Development sessions that empower teachers to grow professionally and enhance student engagement and achievement. Whether she’s planning and supporting school-wide initiatives or quietly helping a struggling student find their confidence, Rachel believes in the power of education to change lives and she lives by this belief every day
R A C H E L M O T T
MEETYO
Kellée M of two te instructio
K E L L E E M E
R R I T T
Hayward Jean is the Director of Student Services for Orangeburg County School District As a former award-winning Principal of Mellichamp Elementary School, he led the school to a remarkable transformation, earning it an "A" rating from an initial "F" in just one year Mellichamp received prestigious awards, including the Palmetto Silver Award and the NIET School of Promise award in 2019-2020. Jean is an accomplished author, having written a book on countering negative influences of hip hop on youth and co-authored a Marriage Prayer Journal His teaching career includes accolades such as Teacher of the Year and District Teacher of the Year Finalist Jean is actively involved in education advocacy, serving on the Steering Committee for (National Institute for Excellence in Teaching) NIET and receiving awards like the NAACP Presidential Citation Award. He is a motivational speaker, founder of Speak Life Enterprises, and an inaugural member of Call Me MISTER®, providing professional development in education. Jean is recognized for his community service, receiving awards such as the Claflin University Young Alumnus Visionary Award and the SC Male Achievement Conference "Fatherhood/Man of the Year " Jean was a guest on the internationally syndicated television program, The 700 Club, where he discussed growing up without his father to now being like a father to students who call him “Dad.” He is involved in various community leadership roles and currently plants a church with his wife, Starlette Jean. They have three children: Hayward, Malachi, and Imani.
secondary levels As an instructional leader, she is passionate about high-quality, culturally responsive instruction and fostering learning environments where leadership capacity can be developed at multiple levels: student, teacher and administrator. As the principal of Spring Mill Elementary, she is committed to ensuring that all stakeholders have access to differentiated instruction within an environment where educational excellence is prioritized. Kellée is the 2024 receipient of the Inno Power Conference Black Excellence in Education Awardwas For the 2022-2023 school year, Kellèe was selected as the MSD Washington Township Administrator of the Year Since she beganher role as building principal, the school culture has expereinced a transformational shift. The culture of urgency is evidenced through high expectations for student achievement. Spring Mill's academic performance data has increased from being the lowest performing school in the district to being the second highest performing school in the district. Under Kellèe's leadership, Spring Mill has consistently exceeded all performance and benchmark goals set by Washington Township School district If you were to visit Spring Mill Elementary, you would observe engagement opportunities that are customized to specific areas of acdemic, behavioral and social needs. It is a diverse learning enviroinment where every learner is encouraged to take risks, both students and teachers alike. Kellée believes this is foundational in terms of educational equity. She is passionate about creating a culture where academic excellence is the goal for every student, every time You can follow her at @yas I'mtheprincipal H A Y W A R D J E A N
MEETYO
Nation educat with his leadership to seek out professional development opportunities that help educators think differently as they explore new ways to engage their students at the highest level.
Steve’s professional development workshops introduce pre-K through 8thgrade teachers to strategies and best practices for creating student-centered STEM experiences that strengthen critical thinking skills through communication, collaboration, and creativity.
Visit SteveSpangler.com to see why Steve Spangler’s PD workshops differ from anything you or your teachers have ever experienced.
S T E V E S P A N G L E R
TEACHERS IN THEIR SECOND CAREER
O
DUCING GYTOThe
I N S T R U C T I O N A L L A B
Introducing the groundbreaking GYTO Instruction Lab, a revolutionary conference track designed exclusively for educators seeking to unlock the true potential of their classrooms through Best Instructional Practices Whether you're a new teacher, a seasoned veteran, or an instructional coach, this immersive experience is tailored to elevate your teaching game and propel your students toward unprecedented academic success.
In the GYTO Instructional Lab, we recognize the transformative power of effective teaching methods and their ability to shape student outcomes regardless of the curriculum in use. This track is your passport to a comprehensive exploration of proven instructional strategies that transcend subject matter, curricular frameworks, and district initiatives This track is less about any specific standard and more about how we can find success for our learners with ANY and ALL standards
Embark on a unique adventure as we guide you through the intricacies of instructional excellence, empowering you to seamlessly integrate best practices into your daily teaching routine Whether you're teaching from a basal reading program or fully immersed in the science of reading, or working from a diverse set of standards and district initiatives, our expert facilitators will provide you with the tools and insights needed to set your classroom and learners on a trajectory of continuous academic growth and success.
The GYTO Instructional Lab is not just another conference track; it's a dynamic learning experience that equips you with the knowledge and skills to navigate the evolving landscape of education Get ready to fully unleash the potential of your teaching, refine your instructional techniques, and discover the powerful potential of any curriculum
Join us on this unparalleled journey through the GYTO Learning Lab – an opportunity open to all educators ready to immerse themselves in the art and science of best instructional practices Get ready to revolutionize your teaching and witness the transformative impact on your students' achievements. Your best results await in the GYTO Instruction Lab!
2 DAY 1 DAY
THE INSTRUCTIONAL LEADER with Hope King
CRAFTING EFFECTIVE MINI LESSONS with LANESHA TABB
GAMETIME DATA with CHRIS POMBONYO
BUILDING YOUR DREAM TEAM WITH AMELIA CAPOTOSTA & LIZ SHERMAN
SPEAK, LISTEN, LEAD! with JOANNE MILLER
SET THE STAGE TO ENGAGE with HOPE AND WADE KING
CRAFTING CRAVEABLE LESSONS with BRITTANY HEGE
A SPECIAL KEYNOTE
3 DAY
MISSION MOTIVATION with CHRIS POMBONYO
CHEERS AND CHANTS CHAMPIONS with ASHLEY SCHROEDER
DE-ESCALATING STUDENTS IN CRISIS with REBEKAH POE
FROM MANAGEMENT TO METACOGNITION with SHANE SAEED L
