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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8:00am CDT

Casting Light, Reading Shadows: Using Assessment to Illuminate Learning and Guide Instruction LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT

What if assessments weren’t just checkpoints—but launchpads for deeper insight and responsive instruction? In this session, we’ll explore how a well-designed, comprehensive assessment footprint equips teachers to act as scientists of their learners—gathering meaningful evidence, identifying patterns, and responding to student needs with precision, individuality, and clarity. Discover how layering formative, interim, and summative data can unlock instructional agility, support targeted interventions, and ensure every student’s growth path is both visible and actionable. Together, we’ll reimagine assessment not as an endpoint, but as the foundation of impactful teaching.

Speakers

Spencer Brown

Assistant Director of Assessment and Accountability, Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT
Room 1308

Audience All

8:00am CDT

Helping Anxious Kids be Less Anxious LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT

We all experience anxiety. But when is it a problem? And is it really best to let kids off the hook every time they get anxious? (spoiler alert - its not!) In this session we'll explore how anxiety is different from general stress, when anxiety is healthy and when it is a barrier to learning, and how to help anxious kids thrive at school and at home.

Speakers

Scott Fluke

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

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

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT
Raven's Nest

Audience All

8:00am CDT

IXL 1.0: Boosting Math Growth with Purposeful Practice LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT

Have you been intentional about your students’ IXL usage? Research shows that purposeful use of IXL is linked to increased student performance on assessments like the KAP and ACT. In this session, we’ll explore how to move beyond random practice and leverage IXL as a strategic tool to reinforce instruction, target skill gaps, and track meaningful progress. Learn how to use data to drive decisions—and make every minute on IXL count.

Target Audience: All Teachers with IXL Accounts and Access

Speakers

Kelly Ulmer

Math Facilitator, Olathe Public Schools

Katie Schaefer

IXL

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT
Room 1322

Audience All

8:00am CDT

Overcoming the Enemies of Efficacy LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT

Commons

What are enemies that prevent efficacy from developing and how can teams prevent the enemies from derailing their improvement work? Collective teacher efficacy is a significant belief system that impacts student outcomes. To ensure that collective efficacy remains strong in schools, it’s important to understand what influences a team’s beliefs about what they can accomplish. It’s important to know what strengthens efficacy and factors that weaken it. During this session, Jenni will share ‘enemies of efficacy’ and describe ways to overcome the enemies in today’s schools.
Success Criteria
Participants will be able to:
Describe the relationship between collective teacher efficacy and people’s receptiveness to change.
Identify things that hinder the development of collective teacher efficacy.
Describe strategies for overcoming the enemies of efficacy.
Determine how, when, and why to utilize various strategies for overcoming the enemies of efficacy.

Speakers

Jenni Donohoo

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT
Commons

Audience All

8:00am CDT

PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, & Empathy) for Educators working with students who have experienced trauma LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT

What is PACE?

Why is approaching students who have experienced trauma with PACE helpful?

How can I use PACE in my role as an educator?

How will the students I work with benefit if I utilize PACE in my classroom?

Speakers

Lisa O'Hara

Mental Health Professional, Olathe Public Schools

I am a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker with 27 years of experience working with children & families in the mental health & educational arena.

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT
Room 1205

Audience All

8:00am CDT

Picture This: Transforming Learning Through Visual Supports LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT

Visual supports are essential tools for increasing engagement, understanding, and independence for learners of all ages and abilities—from early childhood through 18-21 programs. This interactive workshop is designed for both general education and special education teachers and will explore how to effectively use visual supports to enhance instruction, behavior, and communication across settings.
Participants will learn how to create and implement a variety of visual tools, including schedules, routines, task organizers, choice boards, and content-based visuals. Emphasis will be placed on practical strategies that can be adapted for diverse learning needs and used immediately in the classroom.
All attendees will receive access to a ready-to-use digital visual icon notebook and templates designed to support learners across a wide range of skills and settings. Whether you're new to visual supports or looking to expand your toolkit, this session offers fresh ideas, digital resources, and collaborative problem-solving to support student success.

Speakers

Sara Dilday

Social Emotional Resource Facilitator, Olathe Public Schools

Sara currently serves as a Social Emotional Resource Facilitator in the Olathe Public Schools. Prior to this position, she was a special education coordinator, behavior specialist, special education teacher and general education teacher.

Nicole Elo

Social Emotional Resource Consultative Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

Nicole currently serves as the Social Emotional Resource Consultative Teacher in the Olathe Public Schools. Previous to this position, she was an elementary special education teacher, general education teacher and an elementary behavior interventionist.

Diana Iannetto

Resource Consultative Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

Diana currently serves at the Olathe Public Schools Resource Consultative Teacher. Prior to this position she was a general education teacher, special education teacher, MTSS support specialist in math, special education instructional coach and paraeducator.

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT
Room 1315

Audience All

8:00am CDT

Regulate, Relate, and Reason: Supporting Student Behavior through PBIS and the Neurosequential Model LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT

This professional development session will equip educators, school counselors, and administrators with a practical and research-based approach to supporting student behavior through the integration of Dr. Bruce Perry's Neurosequential Model: Regulate, Relate, and Reason (RRR) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Through the exploration of multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS), participants will leave this session with practical strategies to use in the classroom that promote self-regulation, reinforce positive behavior expectations, and foster emotional well-being.

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 →

Katherine Clifford

Behavior Coach, Olathe Public Schools

Coming Soon!

Jeff Stone, M.S. School Counseling

School Counselor, Washington Elementary

School counselor at Washington Elementary in Olathe. I support K-5 students in the domains of social and emotional support, career readiness, and academic success. My counseling strengths are de-escalation and relationship building. My wife is an instructional coach in Olathe and... Read More →

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT
Flex Theatre

Audience All

8:00am CDT

School of Engagement LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT

“School of Engagement” is an inspiring message and workshop session where Jonathan Alsheimer motivates educators to reignite that flame to be “that teacher,” with a focus on classroom management, strategies to help teachers build relationships, conversations around unit, and lesson plan development, and simple activities and lesson ideas to enhance student engagement and the learning experience for kids. This workshop is packed with ideas and activities for teachers to use with students.

Speakers

Jonathan Alsheimer

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT
Main Gym

Audience All

8:00am CDT

Unlock Inclusive Learning with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT

Are you passionate about creating learning environments where all students can thrive? This interactive introductory session will demystify Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and equip you with practical strategies to design more inclusive and engaging learning experiences.

UDL is a research-based framework that addresses the diverse needs of all learners by proactively designing flexible options for how information is presented, how students respond or demonstrate learning, and how they are engaged in learning.

This session is designed for all educators, including teachers, administrators, instructional coaches, curriculum developers, and anyone interested in creating more inclusive and effective learning environments for diverse learners. No prior knowledge of UDL is required.

Speakers

Mary Kate Berryman

UDL Coach, Kansas Infinitec

Mary Kate Berryman is a UDL Coach for the High Quality Instruction within Inclusive Learning Environments project. With a background in elementary education, Mary Kate brings energy, curiosity, and a collaborative spirit to her work with educators. She is passionate about supporting... Read More →

Lisa Lajoie-Smith

UDL Coach, Kansas Infinitec

Lisa Lajoie-Smith is a special education teacher and instructional coach with 34+ years of experience in education. She holds a Master’s degree in Education with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction and is trained in Cognitive Coaching, including participation in Jim Knight’s... Read More →

Crystal May

UDL Project Lead, Kansas Infinitec

Leading the UDL Project for the High Quality Instruction within Inclusive Learning Environments initiative at Kansas Infinitec and TASN, Crystal brings over 25 years of educational experience to her role. She empowers educators across the state to utilize the Universal Design for... Read More →

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am CDT
Room 1223

Audience All

8:00am CDT

HeartSaver CPR and First Aid- Olathe Staff Only LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 11:30am 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

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 11:30am CDT
Orchestra Room

Audience All

8:00am CDT

The Science of Reading LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm CDT

1501

Explore the world of literacy and cognition in this session. Explore the latest research and evidence-based practices that guide effective reading instruction. From decoding to comprehension, discover the details of the reading process and how they shape literacy development for readers of all ages. This is a full day session.

Speakers

Nicole Robles

Instructional Coach, Olathe Public Schools

Stephanie Havertape

Grade 1 Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm CDT
1501

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Beyond the Basics: Building an Engaging and Effective PBIS Store LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Implementing a Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) school store is an effective strategy to reinforce positive student behaviors and foster a supportive school culture. In this session, led by educators who manage their school's PBIS store, participants will learn new ideas, share ideas, and solve problems. Following a structured workshop model that emphasizes collaboration, hands-on activities, and shared learning experiences. Considerations include selecting a suitable location (physical space or a digital platform), strategies for choosing items that appeal to students across various grade levels, (low-cost and no-cost options), and the inclusion of students in the management and operation of the store to promote leadership and responsibility.

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 →

Danielle Haldeman

principal, Rolling Ridge

I am the principal at RR.

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.

Taylor Monrean

Library Media Specialist at SFT, Olathe Public Schools

Year 14 in OlatheLibrary Media Specialist at SFTBLT Lead TeacherLMS Middle FacilitatorUndergrad: Loyola University Chicago- English/EducationMasters: KU- Special EducationLMS Certification: Fort Hays University- Library Media

Leslie Simons

Dean of Students - Santa Fe Trail Middle School, Olathe Public Schools

Building Leadership from Baker Univ.

Stacy Slabaugh

Social-Emotional Resource Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

M.S. Ed

Amanda Xavier

Computers/ Business, Olathe Public Schools

BSE Social Studies Education Emporia State MS Curriculum Leadership Emporia State BSE Social Studies Education Emporia State MS Curriculum Leadership Emporia State

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1313

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Communicating Effectively with Professionalism LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Whether at work or play, with friends or intimate partners, communication plays a critical role. Effective communication can enhance relationships, deepen connections, and build trust. In contrast, poor communication skills may contribute to conflict, disconnection, and mistrust. This session will explore different communication styles and identify the best style to use in most situations. It will teach how to approach difficult conversations at work with professionalism to achieve the optimal outcome. Participants will walk away with specific tools for engaging assertively with others in any setting.

Speakers

Michael Roberson

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1325

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Disproportionality – What is it? How did we get here? How can we use PBIS integration and Culture Setting to be a part of the solution? LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Following a positively reviewed presentation from Summer Conferences 2023 and 2024, Dr. Will McDowell and Kathleen Smith, Director of Culture and Belonging will co-present again this year as we explore additional reasons for historical disproportionate distribution of resources, punishment, and opportunity. The presenters will share historical facts that led to the outcomes within our school systems while also collectively sharing and creating solutions with the audience participation. The wise part is within us and we will find ways to allow for opportunity for all students.

Speakers

Dr. Will McDowell

PBIS Coach, Olathe Public Schools

PBIS Coach, Longtime Educator, Believer in Culture and Belonging

Kathleen Smith

Director of Culture and Belonging, Olathe Public Schools

Director of Culture and Belonging, Former teacher at Olathe Northwest

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1311

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Empowering Educators through the Action Plan Process LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Library

In this session, we’ll explore the Action Plan process used within the Olathe School District to support professional growth and continuous learning among educators. The Action Plan framework encourages teachers to set clear, actionable goals, reflect on their practices, and engage in meaningful professional development. We will walk through each step of the process, providing practical insights into how educators and staff can create and implement effective action plans that align with district priorities and personal growth goals.
This session will offer guidance on how to use the Action Plan process to drive professional learning, foster collaboration, and ensure that educators are equipped to meet the evolving needs of their students. Whether you're new to the district or looking for ways to enhance your current approach, this session will provide Olathe educators and staff with the tools and understanding to successfully navigate the Action Plan process and maximize its impact on teaching and learning.

Speakers

Phyllis Clark

High School Math Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

Patty Mulligan

3rd Grade Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

Natasha Roseberry

3rd Grade, Washington Elementary

Hello! I have had the privilege of being a teacher in the Olathe School District for the past 10 years. Throughout my career, I’ve had the joy of teaching 3rd grade, and it's been incredibly rewarding to help my students grow and succeed. In addition to my role as a teacher, I also... Read More →

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Library

Audience All

10:00am CDT

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

Thursday May 29, 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

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1312

Audience All

10:00am CDT

IXL 1.0: Boosting Math Growth with Purposeful Practice LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Have you been intentional about your students’ IXL usage? Research shows that purposeful use of IXL is linked to increased student performance on assessments like the KAP and ACT. In this session, we’ll explore how to move beyond random practice and leverage IXL as a strategic tool to reinforce instruction, target skill gaps, and track meaningful progress. Learn how to use data to drive decisions—and make every minute on IXL count.

Target Audience: All Teachers with IXL Accounts and Access

Speakers

Katie Schaefer

IXL

Kelly Ulmer

Math Facilitator, Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1322

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Mentoring Matters: Preparing to Host and Support Student Teachers LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am 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

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1308

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Mind Your Mindset LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Commons

As educators, our own beliefs about our abilities and potential can greatly impact our effectiveness in the classroom and our professional growth. In this session, participants will learn practical strategies to cultivate mindsets for improvement. We’ll explore how to reframe challenges as opportunities, provide constructive feedback that promotes learning and resilience, and create a supportive professional culture that fosters effort, progress, and growth. Building on ideas from session 1, participants will engage in reflective exercises and collaborative discussions to examine their own mindset and learn how to encourage a growth mindset amongst team members.
Participants will be able to:
Recognize ‘out there’ versus ‘in here’ thinking and how educators get stuck in unhelpful stories.
Recognize how mindsets influence behavior and outcomes.
Gain a deeper understanding of mindsets for improvement.
Practice practical strategies for checking assumptions, biases, and cultivating a growth mindset with colleagues.

Speakers

Jenni Donohoo

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Commons

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Our District Dialogues: From Listening to Action LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Olathe NEA, District Senior Leadership, and Olathe School Board Members invite you to a collaborative session focused on what we’ve heard- and what we’re doing- based on your feedback during Our District Dialogues. We’ll revisit the key themes shared by educators around mental health, professional development, and the public perception of our profession. You’ll hear updates on steps already taken and help shape the next phase of action to improve educator support and retention in Olathe. This is your opportunity to keep the conversation- and the progress- going.

Speakers

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.

Nick Kraly

Educator, Olathe Public Schools

Senior Leadership Team

Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Raven's Nest

Audience All

10:00am CDT

PACE (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, & Empathy) for Educators working with students who have experienced trauma LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

What is PACE?

Why is approaching students who have experienced trauma with PACE helpful?

How can I use PACE in my role as an educator?

How will the students I work with benefit if I utilize PACE in my classroom?

Speakers

Lisa O'Hara

Mental Health Professional, Olathe Public Schools

I am a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker with 27 years of experience working with children & families in the mental health & educational arena.

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1205

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Picture This: Transforming Learning Through Visual Supports LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Visual supports are essential tools for increasing engagement, understanding, and independence for learners of all ages and abilities—from early childhood through 18-21 programs. This interactive workshop is designed for both general education and special education teachers and will explore how to effectively use visual supports to enhance instruction, behavior, and communication across settings.
Participants will learn how to create and implement a variety of visual tools, including schedules, routines, task organizers, choice boards, and content-based visuals. Emphasis will be placed on practical strategies that can be adapted for diverse learning needs and used immediately in the classroom.
All attendees will receive access to a ready-to-use digital visual icon notebook and templates designed to support learners across a wide range of skills and settings. Whether you're new to visual supports or looking to expand your toolkit, this session offers fresh ideas, digital resources, and collaborative problem-solving to support student success.

Speakers

Sara Dilday

Social Emotional Resource Facilitator, Olathe Public Schools

Sara currently serves as a Social Emotional Resource Facilitator in the Olathe Public Schools. Prior to this position, she was a special education coordinator, behavior specialist, special education teacher and general education teacher.

Nicole Elo

Social Emotional Resource Consultative Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

Nicole currently serves as the Social Emotional Resource Consultative Teacher in the Olathe Public Schools. Previous to this position, she was an elementary special education teacher, general education teacher and an elementary behavior interventionist.

Diana Iannetto

Resource Consultative Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

Diana currently serves at the Olathe Public Schools Resource Consultative Teacher. Prior to this position she was a general education teacher, special education teacher, MTSS support specialist in math, special education instructional coach and paraeducator.

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1315

Audience All

10:00am CDT

School of Engagement LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

“School of Engagement” is an inspiring message and workshop session where Jonathan Alsheimer motivates educators to reignite that flame to be “that teacher,” with a focus on classroom management, strategies to help teachers build relationships, conversations around unit, and lesson plan development, and simple activities and lesson ideas to enhance student engagement and the learning experience for kids. This workshop is packed with ideas and activities for teachers to use with students.

Speakers

Jonathan Alsheimer

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Main Gym

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Screens, Stress, and Support: Navigating Youth Mental Health in a Digital World LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

In today’s hyperconnected world, digital media plays a powerful role in shaping the mental health of young people. This interactive 90-minute session equips educators with the knowledge and tools to better understand the complex relationship between digital media use and student well-being.
We’ll explore current research and trends around screen time, social media, and digital behavior, with a focus on early signs of mental health concerns. Participants will engage in breakout discussions and complete a "Digital Self Tech Check" to reflect on their own media use and perspectives.
Educators will walk away with:

A deeper understanding of how digital media impacts youth mental health
Strategies to foster digital well-being in the classroom
Approaches to support students across developmental stages

Ready-to-use conversation starters and classroom activities

Speakers

Jared Avilez

Johnson County Mental Health

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1310

Audience All

10:00am CDT

The New Drug Talk and Narcan Training LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 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 →

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Choir Room

Audience All

10:00am CDT

Unlock Inclusive Learning with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT

Are you passionate about creating learning environments where all students can thrive? This interactive introductory session will demystify Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and equip you with practical strategies to design more inclusive and engaging learning experiences.

UDL is a research-based framework that addresses the diverse needs of all learners by proactively designing flexible options for how information is presented, how students respond or demonstrate learning, and how they are engaged in learning.

This session is designed for all educators, including teachers, administrators, instructional coaches, curriculum developers, and anyone interested in creating more inclusive and effective learning environments for diverse learners. No prior knowledge of UDL is required.

Speakers

Mary Kate Berryman

UDL Coach, Kansas Infinitec

Mary Kate Berryman is a UDL Coach for the High Quality Instruction within Inclusive Learning Environments project. With a background in elementary education, Mary Kate brings energy, curiosity, and a collaborative spirit to her work with educators. She is passionate about supporting... Read More →

Lisa Lajoie-Smith

UDL Coach, Kansas Infinitec

Lisa Lajoie-Smith is a special education teacher and instructional coach with 34+ years of experience in education. She holds a Master’s degree in Education with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction and is trained in Cognitive Coaching, including participation in Jim Knight’s... Read More →

Crystal May

UDL Project Lead, Kansas Infinitec

Leading the UDL Project for the High Quality Instruction within Inclusive Learning Environments initiative at Kansas Infinitec and TASN, Crystal brings over 25 years of educational experience to her role. She empowers educators across the state to utilize the Universal Design for... Read More →

Thursday May 29, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Room 1223

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Being Trauma-Invested: Implementing Everyday Classroom Strategies for ALL Students that Improve Student Behavior LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Understanding and addressing the behavior needs of every student is paramount for creating inclusive and supportive learning environments. This session aims to equip educators with trauma invested practical strategies that fostering resilience and academic success for all students. Attendees will explore the trauma-invested continuum (the work of Kristen Souer and Pete Hall) and leave with a variety of everyday classroom strategies tailored to meet the diverse needs of all students.

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 →

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1313

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Developing Student Self-Efficacy LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Commons

Self-efficacy refers to students’ beliefs in their ability to succeed in specific tasks or situations. This mindset significantly impacts their approach to learning and academic challenges. In this session, participants will learn how self-efficacy shapes students’ learning experiences, the contrast between high and low self-efficacy behaviors, and practical strategies to boost students’ confidence in their abilities. Together we will explore how to transform self-doubt into self-assurance, helping your students become more confident, motivated, and persistent learners.

Success Criteria
Participants will be able to:
Identify at least three specific behavioral indicators that distinguish high self-efficacy from low self-efficacy in students (e.g., task approach, response to setbacks, goal-setting patterns).
Understand the sources that influence student efficacy-beliefs and identify ways to incorporate sources into learning activities and structured feedback.
Identify research-based strategies to help increase student self-efficacy

Speakers

Jenni Donohoo

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Commons

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

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

Thursday May 29, 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

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1308

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Empowering Educators through the Action Plan Process LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Library

In this session, we’ll explore the Action Plan process used within the Olathe School District to support professional growth and continuous learning among educators. The Action Plan framework encourages teachers to set clear, actionable goals, reflect on their practices, and engage in meaningful professional development. We will walk through each step of the process, providing practical insights into how educators and staff can create and implement effective action plans that align with district priorities and personal growth goals.
This session will offer guidance on how to use the Action Plan process to drive professional learning, foster collaboration, and ensure that educators are equipped to meet the evolving needs of their students. Whether you're new to the district or looking for ways to enhance your current approach, this session will provide Olathe educators and staff with the tools and understanding to successfully navigate the Action Plan process and maximize its impact on teaching and learning.

Speakers

Phyllis Clark

High School Math Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

Patty Mulligan

3rd Grade Teacher, Olathe Public Schools

Natasha Roseberry

3rd Grade, Washington Elementary

Hello! I have had the privilege of being a teacher in the Olathe School District for the past 10 years. Throughout my career, I’ve had the joy of teaching 3rd grade, and it's been incredibly rewarding to help my students grow and succeed. In addition to my role as a teacher, I also... Read More →

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Library

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Enhancing Teacher Clarity: Writing Effective Learning Intentions and Success Criteria LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Clear learning intentions and success criteria are essential for guiding student learning and improving outcomes. This session will equip educators with practical strategies to communicate precise learning goals and define measurable success criteria that enhance student understanding, engagement, and achievement. Participants will explore best practices for crafting clear, student-friendly learning intentions, aligning them with curriculum standards, and developing success criteria that provide a roadmap for mastery. Through hands-on activities, collaborative discussions, and real-world examples, teachers will leave with actionable tools to implement in their classrooms immediately. Join us to refine your instructional clarity and empower your students with a deeper understanding of their learning journey!

Speakers

Beth Traxler

4th grade teacher, Mahaffie Elementary

Beth is a dedicated 4th-grade teacher with twelve years of experience in education. Passionate about fostering a love of learning in her students, she works hard to create an engaging and supportive classroom environment. Married for ten years, Beth balances her career with family... Read More →

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1221

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Introduction to Digital StoreFront: Ordering Classroom Materials LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

This is an introduction to the Digital StoreFront, where staff may order printed materials for their classrooms. The intended audience is varied; this session is geared towards newer educators, those unfamiliar or uncertain with the ordering process, or those simply wanting to learn about the DSF. This workshop will include live interaction with the DSF ordering processes. Attendees wanting assistance in ordering printed materials are encouraged to bring their district provided device and any print files with which they want to order for real-time assistance. Oracle codes are needed for final checkout processes. If Oracle codes are not known at the time of workshop, that is OK; attendees may save their orders in the DSF shopping cart for checkout at a later time.

Speakers

Jason Kuder

Manager of Graphic Communications, Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1208

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

IXL 2.0: Effectively Implementing IXL for ALL Learners LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Are you currently using IXL with K–12 students and looking for ways to better assess, support, and analyze student learning—especially during WIN Time or MTSS Math?

In this session, participants will explore how IXL can be strategically used to meet the needs of all learners within Olathe’s MTSS framework. You’ll learn how to differentiate content effectively, discover tools to support direct instruction, and engage in hands-on practice with IXL analytics to inform your instructional next steps. Participants will also learn how to align IXL Skill Plans with data from FastBridge and iReady, as well as state standards, KAP, and district-adopted textbook resources.

Note: If you're new to IXL, we recommend attending one of the morning introductory sessions before joining this one.

Target Audience: All Teachers with IXL Accounts and Access

Speakers

Kelly Ulmer

Math Facilitator, Olathe Public Schools

Katie Schaefer

IXL

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1322

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Making Your Documents Ready for Print LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Do you ever wonder why what you see on the screen doesn’t match what you get in print? Or, tired of the print shop calling you to fix something? Learn how to make your documents ready for print. We will discuss proper formatting for booklets, flashcards, bookmarks, etc. Learn printing terms like bleeds, cut marks, and resolution. Bring your project ideas and your district provided device and receive support directly from the district Graphic Communications Department on how to prepare your documents for the best print outcome.

Speakers

Erica Derrington

Assistant Director of Graphic Communications, Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1223

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Mastering Money LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 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

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.

Jillian Miller

Mainstreet Credit Union

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Flex Theatre

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Moral Courage: Unity Without Uniformity LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

Educators will learn moral courage as a set of skills, the basic neuroscience of fear, and the psychology of reducing fear in us and others, openness of viewpoints, how to create a brave space without immediate judgement, and how to engage across differences.

Speakers

Jenna Kuder

Director of Professional Learning, Olathe Public Schools

I love learning and helping others to find their own learning passions.

Kathleen Smith

Director of Culture and Belonging, Olathe Public Schools

Director of Culture and Belonging, Former teacher at Olathe Northwest

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1309

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

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

Thursday May 29, 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

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Choir Room

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

School of Engagement LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

“School of Engagement” is an inspiring message and workshop session where Jonathan Alsheimer motivates educators to reignite that flame to be “that teacher,” with a focus on classroom management, strategies to help teachers build relationships, conversations around unit, and lesson plan development, and simple activities and lesson ideas to enhance student engagement and the learning experience for kids. This workshop is packed with ideas and activities for teachers to use with students.

Speakers

Jonathan Alsheimer

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Main Gym

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

The Power of Empathy in the Workplace LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

This course is designed to enhance interpersonal skills and foster a positive work environment. Participants will explore the impact of empathy on communication, team collaboration, and overall workplace well-being. Participants can expect to develop a deeper understanding of empathetic practices to create a more supportive and resilient workplace culture.

Speakers

Michael Roberson

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1325

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

Understanding the Foster Care System and How to Care for Students in Your Classroom Who Have Experienced Abuse or Neglect LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT

It can be overwhelming to navigate how best to help a student who has experienced abuse and/or neglect. This course will help you recognize indicators of maltreatment, know when to make a report, learn what happens after you make a report, and understand how to care for a student in the foster care system.

Speakers

Aaron Holmes

Mental Health Professional, Olathe Public Schools

I have served as a Mental Health Professional for Olathe Public Schools since 2019. I have a wife who teaches in the district and three sons who are students in Olathe schools.

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 2:00pm CDT
Room 1201

Audience All

12:30pm CDT

HeartSaver CPR and First Aid- Olathe Staff Only LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 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

Thursday May 29, 2025 12:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Orchestra Room

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Adolesence: A Drama, A Reality, and an Open Discussion of Experiences in Olathe, Kansas. LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

This British Television psychological crime drama series created by Jack Thorne and Stephen Graham has elicited strong responses throughout the world. During this interactive presentation we will explore the themes in the four episodes through the lens of professionals, parents, adolescent students, and the you, the participant. We are all currently living or supporting people in this stage here in Olathe, KS. In the four stages of our presentation, we will explore the response of officials when something happens, the effect in school in the aftermath, the inner-thoughts young people need to process, and exploration as parents and community members in our response to so many factors. Our goal will be to acknowledge the challenges, but leave empowered with even stronger collective support for our adolescents.

Speakers

Dr. Will McDowell

PBIS Coach, Olathe Public Schools

PBIS Coach, Longtime Educator, Believer in Culture and Belonging

Alicia Jackson

Assistant Director Counseling and Career Readiness, Olathe Public Schools

Assistant Director Counseling and Career Readiness, Olathe Parent

Jessica McDowell

IB English and Theories of Knowledge Teacher, Kansas City Public Schools

11th Grade IB English and Theories of Knowledge Teacher at Lincoln College Prep in Kansas City, MO, parent of adolescents.

Liam McDowell

Rising Senior, Olathe North High School

Rising junior at Olathe North

Winnie McDowell

Rising Junior, Olathe South High School

Rising Junior at Olathe South

Aaron Todd

Assistant Principal, Olathe Public Schools

Frontier Trail Middle School Assistant Principal, Parent of Adolescent Children

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1311

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Developing Student Self-Efficacy LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Commons

Self-efficacy refers to students’ beliefs in their ability to succeed in specific tasks or situations. This mindset significantly impacts their approach to learning and academic challenges. In this session, participants will learn how self-efficacy shapes students’ learning experiences, the contrast between high and low self-efficacy behaviors, and practical strategies to boost students’ confidence in their abilities. Together we will explore how to transform self-doubt into self-assurance, helping your students become more confident, motivated, and persistent learners.

Success Criteria
Participants will be able to:
Identify at least three specific behavioral indicators that distinguish high self-efficacy from low self-efficacy in students (e.g., task approach, response to setbacks, goal-setting patterns).
Understand the sources that influence student efficacy-beliefs and identify ways to incorporate sources into learning activities and structured feedback.
Identify research-based strategies to help increase student self-efficacy

Speakers

Jenni Donohoo

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Commons

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Enhancing Teacher Clarity: Writing Effective Learning Intentions and Success Criteria LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Clear learning intentions and success criteria are essential for guiding student learning and improving outcomes. This session will equip educators with practical strategies to communicate precise learning goals and define measurable success criteria that enhance student understanding, engagement, and achievement. Participants will explore best practices for crafting clear, student-friendly learning intentions, aligning them with curriculum standards, and developing success criteria that provide a roadmap for mastery. Through hands-on activities, collaborative discussions, and real-world examples, teachers will leave with actionable tools to implement in their classrooms immediately. Join us to refine your instructional clarity and empower your students with a deeper understanding of their learning journey!

Speakers

Beth Traxler

4th grade teacher, Mahaffie Elementary

Beth is a dedicated 4th-grade teacher with twelve years of experience in education. Passionate about fostering a love of learning in her students, she works hard to create an engaging and supportive classroom environment. Married for ten years, Beth balances her career with family... Read More →

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1221

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Healthy Boundaries - How to Say "No" to Modern Students LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Somewhere along the line, educators started to feel like they couldn't tell kids "no." The first word in PBIS is "positive" - but we still need to set healthy boundaries! This session will outline how to effectively set these boundaries with modern students who aren't always used to hearing that word.

Speakers

Scott Fluke

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

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

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Raven's Nest

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Introduction to Digital StoreFront: Ordering Classroom Materials LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

This is an introduction to the Digital StoreFront, where staff may order printed materials for their classrooms. The intended audience is varied; this session is geared towards newer educators, those unfamiliar or uncertain with the ordering process, or those simply wanting to learn about the DSF. This workshop will include live interaction with the DSF ordering processes. Attendees wanting assistance in ordering printed materials are encouraged to bring their district provided device and any print files with which they want to order for real-time assistance. Oracle codes are needed for final checkout processes. If Oracle codes are not known at the time of workshop, that is OK; attendees may save their orders in the DSF shopping cart for checkout at a later time.

Speakers

Jason Kuder

Manager of Graphic Communications, Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1208

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

IXL 2.0: Effectively Implementing IXL for ALL Learners LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Are you currently using IXL with K–12 students and looking for ways to better assess, support, and analyze student learning—especially during WIN Time or MTSS Math?

In this session, participants will explore how IXL can be strategically used to meet the needs of all learners within Olathe’s MTSS framework. You’ll learn how to differentiate content effectively, discover tools to support direct instruction, and engage in hands-on practice with IXL analytics to inform your instructional next steps. Participants will also learn how to align IXL Skill Plans with data from FastBridge and iReady, as well as state standards, KAP, and district-adopted textbook resources.

Note: If you're new to IXL, we recommend attending one of the morning introductory sessions before joining this one.

Target Audience: All Teachers with IXL Accounts and Access

Speakers

Katie Schaefer

IXL

Kelly Ulmer

Math Facilitator, Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1322

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Making Your Documents Ready for Print LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Do you ever wonder why what you see on the screen doesn’t match what you get in print? Or, tired of the print shop calling you to fix something? Learn how to make your documents ready for print. We will discuss proper formatting for booklets, flashcards, bookmarks, etc. Learn printing terms like bleeds, cut marks, and resolution. Bring your project ideas and your district provided device and receive support directly from the district Graphic Communications Department on how to prepare your documents for the best print outcome.

Speakers

Erica Derrington

Assistant Director of Graphic Communications, Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1223

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Q&A- Giving Lessons a "Boost" LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Jonathan Alsheimer will be available for a Q&A session to support you with your needs on:

classroom management
strategies to build relationships
AI image generation
the ripple effect of engagement
unit and lesson plan development
ideas to enhance student learning experiences
various lesson planning examples to boost student engagement

Bring a unit to the workshop that needs some "spark" and engage with Jonathan and other educators to incorporate ideas that will bring your unit to life. This workshop is designed for you to ask questions and incorporate new ideas to "boost" your lessons!

Speakers

Jonathan Alsheimer

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Main Gym

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

The Power Trio: Why Hungry, Humble, and Smart Teams Win LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Patrick Lencioni argues that an ideal team player holds three key characteristics: hungry, humble, and people smart. We'll explore why each are crucial for fostering effective teamwork and how a lack of any one can hinder team dynamics. Additionally, we'll discuss strategies for leaders to identify, nurture, and navigate these qualities within their teams to create cohesive and high-performing groups.

Speakers

Spencer Brown

Assistant Director of Assessment and Accountability, Olathe Public Schools

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1308

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Understanding the Foster Care System and How to Care for Students in Your Classroom Who Have Experienced Abuse or Neglect LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

It can be overwhelming to navigate how best to help a student who has experienced abuse and/or neglect. This course will help you recognize indicators of maltreatment, know when to make a report, learn what happens after you make a report, and understand how to care for a student in the foster care system.

Speakers

Aaron Holmes

Mental Health Professional, Olathe Public Schools

I have served as a Mental Health Professional for Olathe Public Schools since 2019. I have a wife who teaches in the district and three sons who are students in Olathe schools.

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1201

Audience All

2:30pm CDT

Unlock AI's Potential: Mastering Prompt Engineering for Educators LIMITED

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT

Navigate the world of AI with confidence! This session delves into the art and science of prompt engineering – the key to unlocking AI's full potential in education. Discover the fundamental elements of a strong prompt and explore various techniques to achieve specific and valuable outputs. Learn how to think strategically about your AI interactions to save time and enhance your teaching practice.

Speakers

Jen Kennedy

Director of Technology Advancement and Training, Olathe Public Schools

I bring over 15 years of experience leveraging instructional technology in the classroom. With a focus on empowering students and staff through the innovative integration of technology, I strive to create an engaging and supportive learning environment where all learners can thrive... Read More →

Thursday May 29, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm CDT
Room 1207

Audience All

Olathe Summer Conference 2025

From $0.00