Olathe Summer Conference 2025

Olathe Summer Conference 2025

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

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10:00am CDT

Assessments with Purpose LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Our quarterly benchmark assessments and district reading common formative assessments are more than data collection tools—they’re anchors in our instructional decision-making. In this session, we’ll revisit the goals, structure, and instructional alignment of these assessments, ensuring they remain tightly connected to student learning and teacher clarity. This is also a dedicated space for educators to offer feedback, ask questions, and suggest refinements as we continue to evolve a system that supports responsive instruction, equity, and actionable insight. Your voice matters in shaping assessments that serve students and support classroom practice.

Speakers

Spencer Brown

Assistant Director of Assessment and Accountability, Olathe Public Schools

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1315

Audience All

10:00am CDT

CW-Fit Successes: A Teacher's Perspective LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Are you using table points? Have you wondered about group contingencies that work and that are researched based? If yes, come learn about CW-Fit from teachers who have implemented it in their classroom. CW-Fit is based on the following behavioral principles: (1) classroom behaviors can be taught; (2) ignoring inappropriate behavior decreases inappropriate behavior; and (3) group contingencies with reinforcement, through class teams and points, will improve student performance. This discussion will share what CW-Fit is, how it works, teacher perspective on success and challenges, and student perspective on success and challenges. Participants will leave with materials and how to get PBIS coach support on classroom implementation.

Speakers

Anne-Marie Bixler-Funk, Ph.D.

PBIS Coach, Olathe Public Schools

When students communicate their life challenges through big emotions, Anne-Marie Bixler-Funk’s passion is to bring clarity and support to the educators that support them. As a PBIS Coach at Olathe Public Schools, she assists educators in behavioral social emotional learning strategies... Read More →

Karen Zawicki, M.S. +48

1st Grade Teacher, Pleasant Ridge

I have taught at Pleasant Ridge, Kindergarten and 1st grade in Olathe for 29 years. My Bachelors and Masters plus 48 from MNU in education. I live in Olathe with my husband, I have 5 daughters that have graduated from Olathe Public schools. I enjoy spending time with family... Read More →

Crystal Kautz, B.S.E. Elementary Education; M.S. School Counseling

3rd Grade Teacher, Washington Elementary School

Coming soon!

Erin Donovan

1st Grade Teacher, Washington Elementary School

Coming soon!

Rachel Fischer

5th Grade Teacher, Pleasant Ridge Elementary

coming soon . . . .

Marie Jones

1st Grade Teacher, Scarborough Elementary School

Coming soon!

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Flex Theatre

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Empowering Instructional Aides and Paraprofessionals in the Classroom to Engage Students LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Do you have Instructional Aides or Paraprofessionals in your classroom? Do you intentionally set up your activities and classroom environment to make the most of their assistance in the classroom? Do they have the tools and strategies to help spark interest and keep students engaged throughout the lesson? Come learn and share some strategies on how to utilize classroom aides and paraprofessionals to keep students engaged and maximize their learning in the classroom.

Speakers

Michael Flenthrope

Director of Language Acquisition, Olathe Public Schools

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1312

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Exploring the Mind-Body Connection LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

We often think of our physical and behavioral health as separate, but the mind and body are inextricably intertwined. Participants will learn:
• How physical health impacts mood, emotion, thoughts, and beliefs
• How thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and attitudes can positively or negatively affect physical health
• The importance of stress management and self-care in leading the healthiest life

Speakers

Michael Roberson

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1325

Audience All

10:00am CDT

From Data To Graphs-Using Behavioral Data to Make Data Driven Decisions LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Workshop Style:
Participants are encouraged to bring their own data to this hands-on session, where they will learn how to transform raw data into meaningful graphs and use it to support data-based decision making. Open, collaborative discussion is welcomed throughout the workshop to foster shared learning and real-time problem solving.

Speakers

Melinda Bricker

Behavior Coach, Olathe School District

Hi, I’m Melinda Bricker, a behavior coach based in Olathe, Kansas. I’ve been working in special education for over 14 years, and I’m passionate about supporting students, families, and educators in creating positive, inclusive learning environments. Before my time in special... Read More →

Rebecca Carlson

Behavior Coach, Olathe School District

I am a behavior coach supporting elementary schools with a passion for fostering positive learning environments. My background includes years of experience as a special education teacher, working closely with students with autism spectrum disorder, as well as serving as a special... Read More →

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1311

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Generative AI is Here... Now What? LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Commons

With the introduction of ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Claude and other GenAI platforms, educators are faced with adapting our instructional and assessment practices. In this session we will examine key elements of GenAI while we tackle a few key questions:
How can educators use AI tools in their practice to save time and devote energy to other things such as assessing student learning?
What are some critical shifts in assessment occurring at post-secondary and elsewhere that can guide our decisions?
How might the existence of AI impact grading practices and homework?
What are some effective approaches to instruction and assessment in an GenAI world?
What skills should we focus on in the GenAI era, and how can we identify them?
How can we increase student voice, engagement, and personalization through planning instruction with GenAI?

Speakers

Myron Dueck

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Commons

Audience All

10:00am CDT

How Does Your Candle Burn? Mitigating Burnout Threat and Building Personal Resiliency LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Where there is a flame; there will be burn. Foundational studies reveal that burnout is almost inevitable for educators, and current research reveals a greater threat than ever. If you know you were meant for your current educational role but question your career choices, you are not alone. Through resilience research, there is hope, and each of us can make intentional decisions in our lives to increase our abilities to lead through adversity and navigate our professional challenges. Our world is filled with buzzwords and quick fixes that flame out and leave us feeling like failures when we get caught up in patterns. We need to learn what works for us as individuals and harness the internal energy to keep us bouncing back and even beyond our comfort zones through inevitable life challenges as well as professional adversity. Let's go beyond buzzwords and gain a richer understanding of burnout, resilience, and a pathway to greater wellness in this session together!

Speakers

Sarah Johnson

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Main Gym

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Know Your Rights: Understanding Your Negotiated Agreement LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Your negotiated agreement isn’t just a document—it’s your professional foundation as a certified bargaining unit member. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how the agreement shapes your day-to-day working conditions: from assignments, transfers, evaluations and representation. We'll walk through real-world scenarios to show how knowing your rights helps you advocate for yourself and your colleagues. Whether you're new to the profession or a seasoned educator, you'll leave empowered with tools to navigate your contract and strengthen your voice at work.

Speakers

Megan Bricks

Olathe NEA Vice President, Forest View Elementary & Olathe NEA

I am in my 7th year in education, and I love supporting students and educators.

Brett Parker

Uniserv Director, Kansas National Education Association

I have served as a sub, ELL aide, and ELL teacher in Olathe Public Schools. I also served as a legislator in Kansas, and now I support Olathe NEA as a Uniserv Director for Kanas National Education Association.

Angie Powers

Olathe NEA President, Olathe Public Schools & Olathe NEA

I am in my 25th year in education, and I love supporting students and educators.

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Raven's Nest

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Lights, Camera, Learn: Video Editing with Microsoft Clipchamp LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Training + Workshop

Unlock the power of video editing in the classroom with Microsoft Clipchamp for EDU! In this session, you'll learn how to seamlessly record, edit and enhance educational videos to engage students. From trimming and adding effects to incorporating audio, discover the essential skills needed to create captivating content tailored to your curriculum and classroom.

Speakers

Spencer Mees

Classroom Technology Trainer, Olathe Public Schools

Spencer is the district Classroom Technology Trainer. She previously worked as a 4th grade teacher at Northview Elementary. She now works with all K-12 teachers in the district to utilize and implement instructional technologies.

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1208

Audience All

10:00am CDT

The New Drug Talk and Narcan Training LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

This session will focus on understanding impacts of the fentanyl crisis on our students, their families, and our society. Heidi will lead an interactive session, which will allow participants to delve into what a teen student experiences when faced with the choices and possible consequences of substance use. Sarah will train participants on the use of the opioid rescue medication Naloxone (Narcan) and it's importance of being prepared both at home, and in our school district.

Speakers

Heidi Tomassi and Sarah Gilliland, DNP

Fentanyl & Substance Abuse Education Specialist, Director of Health Services, OPS

Heidi is the Fentanyl and Substance Abuse Education Specialist for OPS. She educates students, their families, and staff about the dangers of fentanyl and other substances commonly abused. She talks to students in a transparent and approachable manner to make the topics easier for... Read More →

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Choir Room

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Turning Challenges into Growth: Using Consequences to Teach Behavior and Foster Social-Emotional Development LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Teaching is harder than ever, and with all the challenges teachers face, it can feel overwhelming at times. However, consequences can play a key role in teaching appropriate behaviors and promoting social-emotional growth, especially when used thoughtfully. When you approach consequences as an opportunity for learning, it can help students not only understand the impact of their actions but also develop important emotional skills like empathy, self-regulation, and responsibility.

Speakers

Thomas Hanken

PBIS Coach, Olathe Public Schools

12 years serving Olathe Public Schools as a 4th and 5th grade teacher, administrator, an instructional coach and currently serves as a PBIS Coach.

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1313

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Words Hurt: Establishing a Safe Learning Environment LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

In this session, educators will learn the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all by learning ways they can speak up in their classroom to stop disruptive or offensive behavior in a constructive and positive way. Educators will learn steps to educate, redirect, and then affirm good behaviors.

Speakers

Kathleen Smith

Director of Culture and Belonging, Olathe Public Schools

Director of Culture and Belonging, Former teacher at Olathe Northwest

Wednesday May 28, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1309

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

"Lessons I Learned the Hard Way (So You Don’t Have To)" LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Using my experience from 14 years of teaching, I use stories of my greatest failures to help teachers learn from my mistakes, gain insight on how to manage and learn from their own failures, and most imporantly how bounce back a better and more refined teacher that leaves generational ripple effects in the lives of their students.

Speakers

Justin Pickens

Proud Elementary Physical Education Teacher- K-12 Speaker, Olathe Schools- Breaking Cycles, Building Futures

Born into a household marked by dysfunction, Justin defied the odds that predicted he would end up incarcerated, addicted, or worse. With guidance from his parents and unwavering support from coaches and teachers, Justin overcame the obstacles in his path, ultimately rewriting his... Read More →

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1316

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

AI Specifically for Teachers- A Deep Dive Into Magic School LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Commons

As generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) expands throughout all sectors of society, teachers have numerous apps and platforms specifically geared for them. One of the most notable is 'Magic School', and it offers an incredible array of support for teachers. Perhaps the most useful element of Magic School is that it is scaffolded for teachers, with easy to use prompt boxes that eliminate the need to write effective prompts from scratch. By completing a few fields, teachers can obtain customized rubrics, unit plans, text leveling, Math word problems, YouTube video questions, and much, much more. Recently the makers of Magic School have introduced 'Magic Student' - a teacher monitored portal where some tools can be added to a 'classroom' and students can access AI tools in a controlled environment. Join this session to get an in-depth look at Magic School, where participants are encouraged to bring a laptop, iPad or similar as time may be provided to explore and share.

Speakers

Myron Dueck

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Commons

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Cultivating Resilience: Practical Bounce Back Strategies for Passionate Educators LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Join Sarah Johnson, educator, speaker, and resilience researcher, for practical strategies to cultivate personal resilience. In this session, we will explore how to navigate challenges inherent in the profession while maintaining and even boosting personal well-being. Practical strategies such as setting healthy boundaries as well as personal wellbeing practices to reduce stress and mitigate the onset of burnout are the focus. Participants will gain actionable tips to build up their own personal resilience to build a stronger sense of satisfaction in the school setting. Whether new or seasoned in the field of education, it’s time to invest in your well-being and unlock your resilience potential.

Speakers

Sarah Johnson

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Main Gym

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Data Shaping Classrooms to Decrease Behavior and Increase Student Engagement LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

This session will guide educators in using Behavioral, Social, and Emotional Learning (BSEL) data to create classroom environments that reduce disruptive behaviors and enhance student engagement. Through interactive activities and discussions, teachers will learn practical ways to interpret BSEL data and apply it to their classroom strategies, fostering a positive and productive learning environment.

Speakers

Thomas Hanken

PBIS Coach, Olathe Public Schools

12 years serving Olathe Public Schools as a 4th and 5th grade teacher, administrator, an instructional coach and currently serves as a PBIS Coach.

Anne-Marie Bixler-Funk, Ph.D.

PBIS Coach, Olathe Public Schools

When students communicate their life challenges through big emotions, Anne-Marie Bixler-Funk’s passion is to bring clarity and support to the educators that support them. As a PBIS Coach at Olathe Public Schools, she assists educators in behavioral social emotional learning strategies... Read More →

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1313

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Dream It. Write It. Fund It.- A Guide to OPSF Grant Funding LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Do you have an amazing idea to support learning for students, but need funding to make it come to life? In this session you will learn how the Olathe Public Schools Foundation can connect you with financial resources for classroom needs. Learn how to craft proposals for OPSF Classroom Grants or grants from the Women’s Giving Circle. We will also explore how DonorsChoose can help crowdsource additional funding. Olathe Public Schools Foundation is here to support students and teachers. Whatever you’re dreaming, bring your “big ideas” and receive support to help you get started with the grant writing process.

Speakers

Alice Snider

Senior Program Specialist OPSF, Olathe Public Schools

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1308

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Leave Smarter: Know Your Options LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Your leave benefits weren’t handed to you. They were fought for and won by educators like you through the negotiations process. This session breaks down what kinds of leave you have as a certified member of the bargaining unit and how they work in real-life situations. From PTO to FMLA and everything in between, we’ll explore your options and answer your questions. Understanding your leave options empowers you to take care of yourself and your family so that you can meet your students' needs while helping us advocate for even stronger policies. When we know our contract, we protect each other—and we keep winning.

Speakers

Megan Bricks

Olathe NEA Vice President, Forest View Elementary & Olathe NEA

I am in my 7th year in education, and I love supporting students and educators.

Brett Parker

Uniserv Director, Kansas National Education Association

I have served as a sub, ELL aide, and ELL teacher in Olathe Public Schools. I also served as a legislator in Kansas, and now I support Olathe NEA as a Uniserv Director for Kanas National Education Association.

Angie Powers

Olathe NEA President, Olathe Public Schools & Olathe NEA

I am in my 25th year in education, and I love supporting students and educators.

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Raven's Nest

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Managing Adult Emotions LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Working with children can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging emotionally. This course equips professionals with strategies to effectively manage their emotions while engaging with children in various settings. Participants will explore the emotional challenges of working with children, learn techniques to regulate stress and maintain composure, and develop the necessary skills to foster positive interactions as we focus on self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and utilize tools to create a supportive and constructive environment for both the professional and the child.

Speakers

Michael Roberson

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1325

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Mastering Money LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

This two-part class begins with a brief introduction to Banzai, a financial literacy program that teaches real-world finance and practical life skills. Mainstreet Credit Union pays for this program, so it's free for you to use in your classroom.

Then, we will move on to our Mastering Money class. This class is all about demystifying credit scores so you can learn what a credit score is and how to make it work for you in a supportive and fun environment. We offer a free Financial Checkup. This checkup includes a soft inquiry that won't impact your score but identifies savings opportunities. Whether you have good credit, no credit, or need repairs, we're here to help. Join us to learn how to optimize your credit score and save!

Speakers

Jillian Miller

Mainstreet Credit Union

Kelly Main

Business Development Officer, Mainstreet Credit Union

Kelly has worked for Mainstreet Credit Union for over 2 years. She has taught the Mastering Money Seminar to businesses and organizations across the Mero area. Before coming to Mainstreet she sold advertising for Newspaper, Television, Magazine, and Radio.

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Flex Theatre

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Mentoring Matters: Preparing to Host and Support Student Teachers LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

This 90-minute professional development session is designed for experienced educators who will be hosting student teachers in the upcoming school year. The session will provide participants with structured time, tools, and guidance to effectively plan for the arrival and integration of a student teacher in their classroom.
Participants will explore best practices for mentoring, review expectations and responsibilities, and identify strategies to foster a successful, supportive, and growth-oriented experience for both the mentor and student teacher. The session includes collaborative discussion, resource sharing, and dedicated planning time for teachers to align curriculum pacing, set communication norms, and prepare initial activities or co-teaching opportunities.
By the end of the session, participants will leave with a customized onboarding plan, practical mentoring tools, and increased confidence in their role as instructional leaders and professional mentors.

Speakers

Dr. Ann Addison

Director of New Educator Induction and University Partnerships, Olathe Public Schools

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1306

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Scaffolding for Student Success: Supporting Learning Step-by-Step LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Educators will explore the concept of scaffolding- a powerful instructional strategy that helps students bridge the gap between what they know and what they are learning. Participants will learn how to break complex tasks into manageable steps, provide appropriate support, and gradually release responsibility as students gain confidence and independence.

Speakers

Kelly Tines

Director of Curriculum and Instructional Support, Olathe Public Schools

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Choir Room

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

HeartSaver CPR and First Aid- Olathe Staff Only LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

This session will train the participant in HeartSaver CPR and basic First Aid. HeartSaver CPR certification is for 2 years.

Speakers

Sarah Gilliland/District Nurses

Director of Health Services, OPS

NA

Wednesday May 28, 2025 12:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Orchestra Room

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

"Lessons I Learned the Hard Way (So You Don’t Have To)" LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Using my experience from 14 years of teaching, I use stories of my greatest failures to help teachers learn from my mistakes, gain insight on how to manage and learn from their own failures, and most imporantly how bounce back a better and more refined teacher that leaves generational ripple effects in the lives of their students.

Speakers

Justin Pickens

Proud Elementary Physical Education Teacher- K-12 Speaker, Olathe Schools- Breaking Cycles, Building Futures

Born into a household marked by dysfunction, Justin defied the odds that predicted he would end up incarcerated, addicted, or worse. With guidance from his parents and unwavering support from coaches and teachers, Justin overcame the obstacles in his path, ultimately rewriting his... Read More →

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1316

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

A Pathway to Leadership in Education LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Join this session to learn a step-by-step process for exploring and obtaining opportunities for increased leadership experience within and beyond your building. Identify strategies that will open doors for sharpening your leadership skills and refining the craft of leading in education by making a personalized implementation plan.

Speakers

Julie Fishburn

K-12 Social Studies Coordinator, Olathe Public Schools

K-12 Social Studies CoordinatorDistrict AIM and AVID Support2024 Liberty Bell Award Recipient, Johnson County Bar AssociationEdCamp Johnson County Founding Team Member and PresenterBachelors Degree: History EducationGraduate Degrees: Special Education, and Curriculum & Instruction Field... Read More →

Julie Miller

Science Coordinator, Olathe Public Schools

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1321

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Building a Strong PLC with PBIS Integration LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Dr. Will McDowell has been able to work directly with over 50 schools at all levels in their PBIS integration. One of the most effective PLC teams with whom he has gotten to work is the 4th-grade team at Black Bob Elementary School. In this interactive presentation, we draw upon the science of PBIS and how the team of Janee Boswell, Melissa Thorsell, Kevin Nicholls, and Kelsey Huston so effectively integrates the practices of a multi-tiered system of support for not only their students’ behavior, but their own. You will leave with actionable ideas to help your own team function with greater alignment, trust, and clarity.

Speakers

Dr. Will McDowell

PBIS Coach, Olathe Public Schools

PBIS Coach, Longtime Educator, Believer in Culture and Belonging

Janee Boswell

4th Grade Teacher, Black Bob Elementary

About Janee BoswellJanee Boswell is a veteran teacher at Black Bob Elementary with 20 years of experience at the school and 21 years in education. She holds two master’s degrees—one in Reading and the other in Educational Leadership—and serves as her building’s BLT chair... Read More →

Kelsey Huston

4th Grade Teacher, Black Bob Elementary

About Kelsey Huston (Not attending in person)Kelsey Huston is a nurturing and dedicated educator who has been teaching at Black Bob Elementary for the past five years and has 14 years of experience in education overall. Known for her calm presence and ability to find the good in... Read More →

Kevin Nicholls

4th Grade Teacher, Black Bob Elementary

About Kevin NichollsKevin Nicholls is a fourth-grade teacher at Black Bob Elementary and a dedicated member of the 4th-grade PLC team. With a unique professional background as a former Executive Chef, Kevin brings creativity, structure, and real-world connections into his classroom... Read More →

Melissa Thorsell

4th Grade Teacher, Black Bob Elementary

About Melissa ThorsellMelissa Thorsell brings energy, empathy, and bilingual brilliance to the 4th-grade team at Black Bob Elementary. As a Spanish Immersion teacher and the daughter of immigrant parents, Melissa is a fierce advocate for inclusivity and equity in education. She holds... Read More →

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1311

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Crafting Classroom Connections: Google Sites for Engagement & Communication LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Training + Workshop

Create and customize Google Sites tailored to your classroom and student needs. Discover step-by-step guidance on setting up a Google Site and explore advanced customization options to enhance engagement and organization, empowering educators to create dynamic online learning environments. From organizing content to empowering student choices, participants will explore innovative uses for creating and implementing Google Sites in their classrooms.

Speakers

Spencer Mees

Classroom Technology Trainer, Olathe Public Schools

Spencer is the district Classroom Technology Trainer. She previously worked as a 4th grade teacher at Northview Elementary. She now works with all K-12 teachers in the district to utilize and implement instructional technologies.

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1208

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

How Does Your Candle Burn? Mitigating Burnout Threat and Building Personal Resiliency LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Where there is a flame; there will be burn. Foundational studies reveal that burnout is almost inevitable for educators, and current research reveals a greater threat than ever. If you know you were meant for your current educational role but question your career choices, you are not alone. Through resilience research, there is hope, and each of us can make intentional decisions in our lives to increase our abilities to lead through adversity and navigate our professional challenges. Our world is filled with buzzwords and quick fixes that flame out and leave us feeling like failures when we get caught up in patterns. We need to learn what works for us as individuals and harness the internal energy to keep us bouncing back and even beyond our comfort zones through inevitable life challenges as well as professional adversity. Let's go beyond buzzwords and gain a richer understanding of burnout, resilience, and a pathway to greater wellness in this session together!

Speakers

Sarah Johnson

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Main Gym

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Success Beyond the Session: Strategies for Promoting Maintenance and Generalization fo New Behavioral Skills LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Our field is quite good at teaching students new behavioral skills. However, educators commonly cite concerns that these skills do not last (maintenance) and do not transfer across settings or to other providers (generalization). In this session, we will outline common reasons why these challenges occur and provide practical strategies to promote maintenance and generalization.

Speakers

Jessie Fluke

Music Therapist, Olathe Public Schools

Jessie uses music as a medium to teach non-musical skills to preschool to high school learners with a wide range of disabilities.

Scott Fluke

Assistant Director - BSEL & Mental Health Services, Olathe Public Schools

Scott supports behavioral and mental health prevention and intervention for Olathe Public Schools.

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Raven's Nest

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Throwing the Laptops in the Lake*- Making Learning Visible Through Lego, Play-Doh, and Other Avenues of Authentic Human Interaction LIMITED

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Commons

* We’ll remove the laptops immediately to protect the ecosystem
According to the most recent research, globally the average person spends around 7 hours per day looking at a screen. For Gen Z (ages 11-25) tack on an extra two hours, and if current trends continue, they'll soon surpass 10 hours a day! If screen time was an issue before COVID, it was exacerbated by the pandemic through remote learning, Zoom sessions, and other ways we were forced to connect digitally. While it’s clear that technology plays an integral role in learning, perhaps it’s worth exploring ways to periodically ‘switch off’ the screens and explore other avenues. In this session, we’ll explore a variety of ways to introduce face-to-face conversations, movement, and the outdoors. We will also dust off 'old school’ stuff like Lego, Play-Doh, and action figures and examine how we can purposefully incorporate these engaging elements into our instruction and assessment routines.

Speakers

Myron Dueck

Wednesday May 28, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Commons

Audience All

Olathe Summer Conference 2025

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