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Welcome to the 2024 Early College Summit!

Thanks for joining us! The summit aims to provide early college educators, administrators, researchers, and advocates the opportunity to gather for focused learning and networking around the shared goal of postsecondary access and success for every student. As we engage in time for learning and rejuvenation, we are reminded that we are building connections to foster excellence, share expertise, and amplify student success. The theme of this year’s summit is "Innovating for Student Success," and we hope you come away inspired with innovative insights and new ideas that strengthen your work in service to students and your school communities.

Important Reminders:
Monday, June 3
 

8:00am EDT

Pre-Summit Study Visit (registration closes May 3rd)
Join us for a pre-summit study visit to one of two local early college high schools in Wake County, North Carolina. The visit will include a full day of learning about innovative early college strategies and practices with a school site tour and panel discussions with staff and students. The day will conclude with a guided planning activity to help individuals and school teams think about how to use insights to support innovation in their own settings. Lunch is included.

Please identify which school site is your preferred visit choice. Space is limited to 30 participants at each site.

  1. Wake STEM Early College High School
    Wake STEM Early College High School provides a highly supportive and academically challenging learning environment for students historically underserved in a traditional high school setting and underrepresented in the STEM disciplines, including first generation college going students, with the goal to graduate prepared to compete globally in STEM careers. The school partners with NC State University to offer a focus on STEM where students engage in extensive project-based learning and exploration of the Grand Challenges for Engineering.
  2. Vernon Malone College and Career Academy
    Vernon Malone College and Career Academy (VMCCA) is a collaborative endeavor between the Wake County Public School System, Wake Technical Community College and Wake County Government. Students at VMCCA complete studies in one of six Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs as part of their high school graduation credits with career-informed courses and work-based learning experiences. VMCCA is also focused on serving first generation college-going students as well as other students historically underrepresented in higher education.

When: June 3rd 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Where: Sheraton Imperial Hotel Raleigh-Durham / Wake STEM Early College / Vernon Malone College and Career Academy
Who: Early College Educators, Leaders, and other interested Practitioners
Cost:  $325 for ECN members, $375 for non-members


Monday June 3, 2024 8:00am - 2:30pm EDT
Pre-Function Lobby

3:00pm EDT

Summit Pre-Registration
Those arriving on Monday, June 3rd may pick up their nametags and summit materials at the registration table in the lobby.

Monday June 3, 2024 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Pre-Function Lobby
 
Tuesday, June 4
 

8:30am EDT

Registration & Light Refreshments
Tuesday June 4, 2024 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Pre-Function Lobby

10:00am EDT

Opening Session
Moderators
avatar for De McKenzie

De McKenzie

Education Consultant, RTI International
Dr. Demond “De” McKenzie is an expert in education and leadership development with over 20 years of experience. Currently he serves as an education consultant and leadership coach for RTI’s Education Services team, where he leads design and facilitation of professional development... Read More →
avatar for Chelsea Smith

Chelsea Smith

Education Consultant, RTI International
Dr. Chelsea Smith is an education consultant with over 12 years of experience as a classroom teacher, assistant principal, and principal. All of Smith’s experience has been in schools designated as low-performing or highly impacted schools. In these settings, she gained substantial... Read More →

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Fredrica Nash

Dr. Fredrica Nash

Director, RTI International
Fredrica Nash began her path toward education when selected to participate in the prestigious N.C.  Teaching Fellow program.  She spent the early years of her career teaching science in Durham Public Schools and facilitating professional learning experiences for teachers on project... Read More →


Tuesday June 4, 2024 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
Imperial Convention Center

11:45am EDT

Lunch & Team Time
Tuesday June 4, 2024 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
Imperial Convention Center

12:45pm EDT

Find out how WECHS HEALS...A Panel Discussion on a Student Inquiry-to-Action Program

Are you looking for a unique way to introduce your students to solving real world problems?  Would you like your students to recognize the value of being active and engaged citizens within their community?  Join our panel discussion to discover how Wake Early College of Health and Sciences (WECHS) has strengthened community partnerships and developed curriculum for WECHS Health Equity Advocates Learning and Solving (H.E.A.L.S.), an inquiry-to-action project, with students.  Student teams engaged in Project-Based Inquiry (PBI) Global, a five-phase collaborative inquiry process focused on developing sustainable, community-embedded innovations to address the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

Speakers
NH

Nicole Hill

Career Development Coordinator, Wake Early College of Health and Science
avatar for Kate Wernersbach

Kate Wernersbach

English Teacher & WECHS HEALS Co-Lead, Wake Early College of Health and Science
Hello! My name is Kate Wernersbach and I have been teaching high school English for 23 years, both in New York and North Carolina. I have a degree in Communications Media and Foreign Language from The American University, and a master degree in Secondary Education from Dowling College... Read More →


Tuesday June 4, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Sandhills

12:45pm EDT

Protocols, Protocols, Protocols

This session delves into the process of implementing a minimum of three classroom protocols weekly to enhance equitable discourse.  The session will explore how teachers used instructional rounds to facilitate peer feedback on protocol usage.  Attendees will depart with a range of applicable protocols for both school-wide and individual classroom use.

Speakers
PS

Pamela Scott

Teacher, Hertford Early College
avatar for Dr. Lyndsay Britt

Dr. Lyndsay Britt

Principal, Hertford Early College
Lyndsay, a North Carolina Teaching Fellow, earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Mathematics Education at East Carolina University and a Master of Arts in Mathematics from Appalachian State University. She has her AIG certification from East Carolina University and is a member... Read More →
MK

Michael Kinkead

Instructional Technology Facilitator, Hertford Early College
avatar for Kenyatta Ward

Kenyatta Ward

Teacher, Hertford Early College


Tuesday June 4, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Crown

12:45pm EDT

Rigorous Instructional Practices

Staff from WEMCHS will explain how they worked to create a school-wide definition of rigor.  Then participants will see specific examples of the rigorous instructional practices that are incorporated into staff lessons.  Participants will see examples used for bell ringers, entrance and exit tickets, and in essential questions.  WEMCHS staff will also share tips on how they increase the rigor in collaborative activities.

Speakers
avatar for Freda Allen

Freda Allen

Principal, Wayne Early/Middle College High School
Freda J. Allen is a native of Goldsboro, NC. She received a Bachelor's of Science in Mathematics and a Masters in School Administration from East Carolina University.  Ms. Allen is currently pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership from Gardner-Webb University.  She... Read More →
avatar for Aletta Burton

Aletta Burton

Teacher, Wayne Early/Middle College High School
avatar for Elizabeth Breedlove

Elizabeth Breedlove

Teacher, Wayne Early/Middle College High School


Tuesday June 4, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Empire AB

12:45pm EDT

Enhancing Education Through Project-Based Learning (PBL): Clarity & Authentic Partnerships

In this dynamic session, educators will delve into the transformative world of Project-Based Learning (PBL), with a particular focus on achieving clarity in instruction and fostering authentic partnerships. This session is designed to offer both insights and practical strategies for educators seeking to enhance their teaching methodologies and student engagement through PBL.

Speakers
AD

Abhinav Dev

Principal, Napa Valley Unified School District
avatar for Aaron Eisberg

Aaron Eisberg

Director, New Tech High School/Center for Excellence


Tuesday June 4, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Empire E

12:45pm EDT

Panel Discussion: Supporting Student Success through Strong High School-College Partnerships

Strong high school-college partnerships can result in strengthened support for students navigating the transition from high school to college. Join us for a panel discussion with school and college leaders as well as representatives from the NC Department of Public Instruction and the NC Community College System to learn about strategies, practices, and resources that strengthen partnerships and lead to increased student success. 

Speakers
avatar for Frank McKay

Frank McKay

Director, Peer Learning Networks, RTI International
Frank McKay has dedicated his career to designing and improving educational experiences for students and educators. As RTI's Director for Peer Learning Networks, Frank works with the amazing Early College Network (ECN) team to ensure that member voices and interests guide ECN activities... Read More →


Tuesday June 4, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Royal

12:45pm EDT

I'm on DECK!: Middle School Preparation for Early College

Dearborn STEM Academy is an open enrollment school in Roxbury, MA (Boston).   We service a predominated underrepresented population in high education.  We have developed a new Middle School early college preparation program open to all students: MLL, SWD, etc.  Our program works to accelerate our students so they are academically and social-emotionally prepared for full time early college in the 11th grade and graduate from Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology with an associates degree at the time of high school graduation. 

Speakers
KA

Kristen Almquist-Cevallos

College Liaison, Dearborn STEM Academy
JP

Jay Pedrero

College Liaison, Dearborn STEM Academy


Tuesday June 4, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Empire D

12:45pm EDT

From Digital Citizenship to Digital Leadership

We often inform our students that their online actions can impact their future, but do we equip them with the knowledge of how their online presence can also offer unique opportunities?  There are countless inspiring examples of young people and students making a significant impact, not only bettering their own futures but also enhancing the lives of others within their schools, their communities, and across the globe.  Children have the potential to effect change, and it’s vital that we concentrate on providing them with both the opportunities and the tools required to make a meaningful difference in the world through the effective use of technology and social media.

Speakers

Tuesday June 4, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Empire C

12:45pm EDT

Empowering Futures: The Student-Centered Journey of Early College Success

This presentation will spotlight our Early College program, emphasizing its student-centered approach and the transformative journey students undertake within it.  Through personalized guidance, collaborative decision-making, and a nurturing community, students are empowered to set and achieve their academic and personal goals.  Success stories will illustrate the program's effectiveness in fostering student success, while discussions on challenges and best practices will offer valuable insights for educational professionals seeking to enhance student outcomes in their own institutions. Join us to explore the power of relationship-building and customization in shaping the future of education.

Speakers
avatar for Amanda Allotta

Amanda Allotta

Lead Presenters (AP), Dayspring Early College Academy
HW

Harold Windlan

Assistant Principal, Dayspring Early College Academy


Tuesday June 4, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Imperial I

2:15pm EDT

Counselors & College Liaisons Networking Session

The power of any network lies in building strong connections among members. During this role-alike networking session, join peers and colleagues to connect around role-alike discussion of topics important to your work in the early college ecosystem through a facilitated networking conversation.

Speakers
avatar for Ivy Mack

Ivy Mack

Education Consultant, RTI International
Ivy brings diverse experiences in K-12 education to RTI’s Center for Education Services. She began her career as a special education teacher and counselor in Virginia and North Carolina. While teaching, she earned postgraduate degrees in Counseling and Educational Leadership. During... Read More →
AM

Amelia Massengill-McLeod

Education Consultant, RTI International


Tuesday June 4, 2024 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Empire D

2:15pm EDT

Higher Education, District Leaders, & Community Partners Networking Session

The power of any network lies in building strong connections among members. During this role-alike networking session, join peers and colleagues to connect around role-alike discussion of topics important to your work in the early college ecosystem through a facilitated networking conversation.

Speakers
avatar for De McKenzie

De McKenzie

Education Consultant, RTI International
Dr. Demond “De” McKenzie is an expert in education and leadership development with over 20 years of experience. Currently he serves as an education consultant and leadership coach for RTI’s Education Services team, where he leads design and facilitation of professional development... Read More →
DT

Dr. Tawannah Allen

Education Consultant, RTI International


Tuesday June 4, 2024 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Imperial I

2:15pm EDT

Humanities Teachers & Instructional Coaches Networking Session

The power of any network lies in building strong connections among members. During this role-alike networking session, join peers and colleagues to connect around role-alike discussion of topics important to your work in the early college ecosystem through a facilitated networking conversation.

Speakers
TC

Todd Campbell

Education Consultant, RTI International
Todd Campbell has more than fifteen years of professional experience in K-12 education, working with teachers and administrators to build the essential knowledge and skill sets required to challenge and support students. As an expert in professional learning, he leads the customized... Read More →


Tuesday June 4, 2024 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Empire AB

2:15pm EDT

Principals & School Leaders Networking Session

The power of any network lies in building strong connections among members. During this role-alike networking session, join peers and colleagues to connect around role-alike discussion of topics important to your work in the early college ecosystem through a facilitated networking conversation.

Speakers
avatar for Frank McKay

Frank McKay

Director, Peer Learning Networks, RTI International
Frank McKay has dedicated his career to designing and improving educational experiences for students and educators. As RTI's Director for Peer Learning Networks, Frank works with the amazing Early College Network (ECN) team to ensure that member voices and interests guide ECN activities... Read More →


Tuesday June 4, 2024 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Empire E

2:15pm EDT

STEM Teachers & Instructional Coaches Networking Session

The power of any network lies in building strong connections among members. During this role-alike networking session, join peers and colleagues to connect around role-alike discussion of topics important to your work in the early college ecosystem through a facilitated networking conversation.

Speakers
avatar for Michelle Woods

Michelle Woods

Education Consultant, RTI International


Tuesday June 4, 2024 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Empire C

3:15pm EDT

Charting New Paths: Empowering Educators to Innovate with AI

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI, has brought both exciting possibilities and complex challenges to PK-13 education. To address the need for responsible AI integration, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction has developed comprehensive guidelines to help schools and districts navigate this new landscape.
This session will provide an overview of the process behind creating the "North Carolina Generative AI Implementation Recommendations and Considerations for PK-13 Public Schools." We will discuss the key problems and opportunities that motivated the development of these guidelines, such as preparing students for an AI-driven future, closing the digital divide, and mitigating risks associated with AI misuse.
The session will highlight essential components of the guidelines, including:
  • AI literacy recommendations by grade span
  • Strategies for effective and responsible use of AI tools
  • Guidance on rethinking plagiarism and academic integrity in the age of AI
  • Considerations for student data privacy and cybersecurity
  • Resources for staff development and student education on AI
  • Attendees will gain insights into how North Carolina is proactively addressing the challenges and embracing the opportunities presented by AI in PK-13 education. They will leave with a clearer understanding of the steps needed to responsibly integrate AI in their own schools and districts, empowering students and staff to become AI-literate citizens prepared for success in an AI-driven world.

Speakers
avatar for Michelle Woods

Michelle Woods

Education Consultant, RTI International


Tuesday June 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Empire C

3:15pm EDT

Embracing Real-World Challenges: Project-Based Learning and Partnerships in Authentic Education

In this dynamic workshop, participants will dive deep into the world of Project-Based Learning (PBL) and explore how forging strong partnerships can elevate the authenticity of learning experiences.  Attendees will spend the majority of their time engaging directly in  activities, collaborative planning, and reflective discussions.  Facilitators will guide the exploration of real-world challenges, demonstrating how these can be integrated into the curriculum to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and student engagement.

Speakers
AD

Abhinav Dev

Principal, Napa Valley Unified School District
avatar for Aaron Eisberg

Aaron Eisberg

Director, New Tech High School/Center for Excellence


Tuesday June 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Imperial II

3:15pm EDT

Monitoring & Facilitating Success at an Early College in a Supportive Environment Using Innovative, Collaborative, & Reflective Instructional Practices

In this active learning session, participants will use a protocol to guide collaboration on individualized student support and reflective practice supporting early college success while learning about strategies implemented at Wake Early College of Health and Science.  Attendees can expect to build their networking base while adding to their resource toolkit.

Speakers
avatar for Lisa Arment Cummings

Lisa Arment Cummings

Principal, Wake Early College of Health and Science
Lisa is the principal at Wake Early College of Health and Science in Raleigh, NC. As the instructional leader, she is committed to providing staff with the resources, time, and space to develop and deliver innovative and effective instruction to an amazing group of kids.Lisa has been... Read More →


Tuesday June 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Empire D

3:15pm EDT

Empowering Educators: Leveraging New Tools for Durable Skills Development in North Carolina

Empowering educators is essential for preparing students to thrive in an ever-changing world.  Through the utilization of NC DPI's new Portrait of a Graduate tools and resources, educators can foster durable skills that will not only enhance academic achievement but also lay the foundation for lifelong success.  Join us for this session to embark on a journey towards deeper learning and student empowerment.

Speakers
avatar for Kristie VanAuken

Kristie VanAuken

Presenter, NC Department of Public Instruction
Kristie VanAuken joined DPI as the special assistant to the superintendent: workforce engagement.  With more than two decades of leadership experience in the public and nonprofit sectors, VanAuken is a seasoned facilitator.  Most recently as vice president of stakeholder engagement... Read More →
avatar for Elizabeth Santamour

Elizabeth Santamour

2023 Regional Teacher of the Year (Sandhills), NC Department of Public Instruction
Elizabeth Santamour has a broad educational background, holding a Master of Science in Special Education from Wilkes University, an add on AIG Certification from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Keystone College... Read More →


Tuesday June 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Empire AB

3:15pm EDT

Success for First-Generation Students

First-generation students face challenges to the college-going process that are as unique as the students themselves.   By using research-based strategies, we will discuss ways to overcome potential barriers that students and families face and provide a strong foundation for our students to achieve college and career success.

Speakers
avatar for Melanie Lachance

Melanie Lachance

Counselor, Wake Early College of Health and Sciences
I have been the Dean of Student Services at Wake Early College of Health and Sciences since 2017.  In addition, I have worked in school counseling-related roles in North Carolina since 2002 in a variety of settings including traditional, public high schools in Wake and Franklin County... Read More →


Tuesday June 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Imperial I

3:15pm EDT

What Is Mathematical Modeling?

Mathematical Modeling is a newly designed Honors Math Elective at Craven Early College.  This writing-intensive course focuses on real-life demonstrations, career exploration, and historical research.  During this session we will look at an overview of the course, how it could be implemented, and what makes this course unique. 

Speakers
avatar for Jimmi Hobbs

Jimmi Hobbs

Teacher, Craven Early College
Math Teacher at Craven Early College. This is my 16th year teaching and my 25th year in education. I have worked in some capacity at every level, from birth to post-secondary. I am passionate about education but I also work hard to have a balanced family and work life. My interests... Read More →


Tuesday June 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Sandhills

3:15pm EDT

Building Future Ready Young Professionals

Learn how a successful CDC and School Counselor partnership can lead to collaboration building strong young professionals as students.  This session includes steps the Dean of Students and CDC have taken to build and implement a career development program of study strategically scaffolded into courses during students' high school experiences.  Presenters share the framework built that crosswalks Social Emotional Learning (SEL), Career Readiness (CR), Portrait of a Graduate (POG), and school goals to systematically building young professional's growth at Wake STEM Early College High School.  Additionally, the team will share how these skills are measured to ultimately develop the student to be strong in the Social Emotional and Career Readiness skills as young professionals ready to take on the world.

Speakers
avatar for Kimberly MacDonald

Kimberly MacDonald

Teacher, Wake STEM Early College High School
RH

Ryan Haymore

Dean of Students, Wake STEM Early College High School


Tuesday June 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Empire E

3:15pm EDT

One School’s Journey Improving Staff & Student Wellbeing Through Trauma-Informed & Resilience Building Tools

In this session, we create a learning space of connection and interrelatedness in which participants hear about one early college high school’s journey learning about the effects of stress and trauma on their brains and bodies.  Through a partnership with the North Carolina Center for Resilience and Learning, Resources for Resilience™, and Pitt County Schools Early College High School, students participated in a summer workshop that led to practicing resiliency-building tools together in real time throughout the school year and in their daily lives.  We will highlight empowering students to promote resilience in themselves, each other and in school communities. 

Speakers
avatar for Eulanda Thorne

Eulanda Thorne

Presenter, Public School Forum of North Carolina - NC Center for Resilience and Learning


Tuesday June 4, 2024 3:15pm - 4:30pm EDT
Crown

5:00pm EDT

Networking Happy Hour
Join us for networking with colleagues along with complimentary hors d’oeuvres, games, music, and cash bar!

Tuesday June 4, 2024 5:00pm - 6:30pm EDT
Crystal Coast Ballroom
 
Wednesday, June 5
 

8:30am EDT

Registration & Light Refreshments
Wednesday June 5, 2024 8:30am - 9:00am EDT
Pre-Function Lobby

9:00am EDT

Opening Session: Reimagining Partnerships for Student Success
Early college high school has become a model of access and opportunity that improves outcomes for students furthest from opportunity, especially for first generation students, students of color, and students who are impacted by poverty. Partnerships have been an essential part of the early college model since it was first conceptualized, and strong partnerships between high schools, districts, and college partners have significantly expanded opportunity and success for students. Yet structural barriers continue to limit progress towards college completion and career success while the need for graduates with post-secondary education continues to grow. Join us for a panel discussion with leaders from three organizations that are reimagining how innovative approaches to partnerships can eliminate barriers and create new pathways for college and career attainment.

Speakers
avatar for Frank McKay

Frank McKay

Director, Peer Learning Networks, RTI International
Frank McKay has dedicated his career to designing and improving educational experiences for students and educators. As RTI's Director for Peer Learning Networks, Frank works with the amazing Early College Network (ECN) team to ensure that member voices and interests guide ECN activities... Read More →
avatar for Nick Mathern

Nick Mathern

Executive Director, K–12 Partnerships, Achieving the Dream
As executive director of K–12 partnerships for Achieving the Dream, Nick Mathern directs ATD’s agenda for K–12/college partnerships and guides the delivery of services to Gateway to College network. Nick leads an innovative team focused on creating more equitable access to college-in-high-school... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Kyle Hartung

Dr. Kyle Hartung

Associate Vice President for Education, Jobs for the Future
Dr. Kyle Hartung is an associate vice president in Jobs for the Future’s (JFF) Education Practice and a co-author of The Big Blur. Over the last 25 years Kyle has worked as a teacher, leader, consultant, and researcher in public K–12 systems and higher-education settings. In his... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Melany Clark

Dr. Melany Clark

Director of Communications and Marketing, MyFutureNC
Melany served public school students, families, and employees for twenty years as an educator and in the field of communications.  She is passionate about family engagement, serving the underserved, and connecting all communication efforts to academic outcomes for students.  Melany... Read More →


Wednesday June 5, 2024 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Imperial Convention Center

10:15am EDT

Academically Engaging Students to Advance Achievement

Dallas College provides dual credit programming for nearly 30,000 dual credit students.  This session will focus on the college's academic support structures to enhance student performance.  Specifically, the session will talk about the unique Facilitator role the college uses and various levels of support for credentialed teachers.  These efforts aid in student success for courses taken at the high schools and colleges. 

Speakers
avatar for Tiffany Kirksey

Tiffany Kirksey

College Liaison, Dallas College
Dr. Tiffany Kirksey serves as Vice Provost of Educational Partnerships at Dallas College, in Dallas, TX. In her role, she supports dual credit, Early College High School (ECHS), and Pathways in Technology (PTECH) programming for nearly 30,000 students. At Dallas College, where dual... Read More →


Wednesday June 5, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am EDT
Empire C

10:15am EDT

Building a Culture of Student-Leadership

This school-year, Quincy ECHS launched distinct leadership pathways for all grade levels in collaboration with Appointed to Lead.  The goal was to enrich the culture of student-leadership within the school by ensuring every student is inspired to believe they can lead, equipped with research-based leadership skills, and empowered to put their leadership into practice.  Stuart Gordon, Founder of Appointed to Lead, will share how these pathways are designed to create a scaffolded leadership development journey across a student's entire early college experience.  Kara Bobrov, Quincy's Early College Transition Coach, will share insights and strategies for implementation of new leadership learning experiences with students.  You will also get to experience first-hand one of our favorite leadership development activities.

Speakers
avatar for Stuart Gordon

Stuart Gordon

Presenter, Appointed to Lead
After 10 years in the classroom, Stuart founded Appointed to Lead due to a passion for providing high quality leadership development instruction to students across NC. Appointed to Lead seeks to inspire, equip, and empower the next generation of leaders while they are still in school... Read More →
KB

Kara Bobrov

Early College High School Advisor, North Quincy High School Early College Program


Wednesday June 5, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am EDT
Imperial II

10:15am EDT

From Chalkboard to Digital Notebook: Transforming Teaching with Microsoft OneNote

Join an interactive session exploring the innovative use of Microsoft OneNote to revolutionize teaching practices.  In this workshop, we will delve into the versatile features of OneNote and demonstrate how it can enhance lesson organization, student engagement, and collaboration in the classroom.  This session will provide educators with an overview of Microsoft OneNote, showcasing its capabilities as a powerful organizational tool.  Participants will witness firsthand how OneNote simplifies lesson organization and facilitates easy access and editing of lesson materials, ultimately streamlining teaching preparation.  Next, we will dive into the functionality of the class notebook feature within OneNote.  Through practical examples and demonstrations, educators will learn how to effectively utilize the class notebook to distribute guided notes to students seamlessly.  We will highlight the benefits of this approach, including increased accessibility of materials and enhanced student engagement in daily learning activities.  We will explore how digital-note taking enhances student engagement and learning outcomes.  Participants will discover the benefits of incorporating digital notebooks and note-taking tools within OneNote, fostering a more interactive and collaborative learning environment.  We will discuss practical examples and share insights into the transformative impact of digital note-taking on classroom dynamics.

Hands-On Tutorial:
To conclude the session, educators will have the opportunity to participate in a hands-on tutorial, guided by our facilitators, on how to create a notebook, add sections, and utilize various features for writing within OneNote. We encourage participants to bring their own iPad with an Apple Pencil, writing tablet, or touchscreen laptop with digital writing capabilities, if possible, to fully engage in the tutorial. Additionally, participants are encouraged to either download the Microsoft OneNote app or log in to Microsoft 365 to access OneNote for a seamless learning experience during the tutorial.

Join us for this dynamic workshop and discover how Microsoft OneNote can revolutionize your teaching practices, empowering you to create engaging and interactive learning experiences for your students.

Speakers
KL

Kristina Lupher

Presenter/Teacher, WCPSS


Wednesday June 5, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am EDT
Imperial I

10:15am EDT

Navigating the AI Revolution in PK-13 Education: North Carolina's Guidelines for Responsible Integration

This session will delve into the NC Generative AI Implementation for PK -13 Public Schools that was published in January of 2024.  We will explore the problem, our journey, our solution, and our plans going forward as we constantly adapt to new and exciting advancements in the fields of AI and other emerging technologies.

Speakers
avatar for Vera Cubero

Vera Cubero

Presenter, NC Department of Public Instruction
Vera is a veteran educator with 26+ years in NC Public Schools including 2 years as a writing coach, 13 years as a classroom teacher, 7 years as a Digital Learning Specialist, and 3 years with NC Department of Public Instruction as the Western region Digital Teaching and Learning... Read More →


Wednesday June 5, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am EDT
Empire D

10:15am EDT

Assessing Early College High Schools and your Portfolio of K-College Partnerships

Early College High Schools have tremendous power for positively impacting the trajectory of students' lives.  With careful design and implementation ECHS can also play an important role in achieving your wider community's postsecondary attainment goals.  In this session, explore a framework for assessing whether your early college high school is leveraging the full potential of the model, as well as the elements of a strategically aligned portfolio of K-12/college partnerships.

Speakers
avatar for Nick Mathern

Nick Mathern

Executive Director, K–12 Partnerships, Achieving the Dream
As executive director of K–12 partnerships for Achieving the Dream, Nick Mathern directs ATD’s agenda for K–12/college partnerships and guides the delivery of services to Gateway to College network. Nick leads an innovative team focused on creating more equitable access to college-in-high-school... Read More →


Wednesday June 5, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am EDT
Sandhills

10:15am EDT

Using Data to Support All Students as they Navigate the Education-to-Workforce Continuum

Attendees will learn how to access and use myFutureNC’s newly released 2024 County Attainment Profiles, a comprehensive resource that offers detailed insights into educational attainment across North Carolina. The Attainment Profile includes individual county profiles and consists of a two-page document showcasing 100 data indicators. In addition, we will share best practices and examples of partnerships throughout NC that support student success in postsecondary attainment aligned with the needs of regional employers.

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melany Clark

Dr. Melany Clark

Director of Communications and Marketing, MyFutureNC
Melany served public school students, families, and employees for twenty years as an educator and in the field of communications.  She is passionate about family engagement, serving the underserved, and connecting all communication efforts to academic outcomes for students.  Melany... Read More →


Wednesday June 5, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am EDT
Empire AB

10:15am EDT

How to Grow & Share Through Peer Rounds

Peer Instructional Rounds are a collaborative tool in education, which are currently thriving in cooperative innovative high schools like Pender Early College.  This non-evaluative approach empowers educators to refine pedagogy, with peers offering invaluable insights.  It also allows peers into classrooms to learn from each other to improve instruction and foster collaboration.  This session offers a deep dive into Peer Rounds, aiding participants in initiating this impactful practice.  The session will include Insights, resources, and a panel discussion with experienced users will equip attendees to cultivate collaborative learning environments within their institutions.

Speakers
avatar for Maxwell Scheinfield

Maxwell Scheinfield

Teacher, Pender Early College High School
DS

Daniel Sidor

Principal, Pender Early College High School


Wednesday June 5, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am EDT
Royal

10:15am EDT

Peer Support: A Novel Approach to School Safety & Wellbeing

Teachers and school staff have stressful jobs.  Daily challenges such as providing coverage for staffing shortages, breaking up student fights, interpersonal conflict, or processing vicarious trauma from student neglect/abuse can take a toll if not properly addressed.  Peer support can help staff navigate these challenges while promoting positive mental health, resiliency, teacher retention, and a safer environment for everyone. 

Speakers
avatar for Lt. Rachel Juren

Lt. Rachel Juren

Presenter/Assistant Chief of Police, High Point Police Department


Wednesday June 5, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am EDT
Crown

10:15am EDT

Reducing Educator & Student Stress in Early College High Schools with Mindfulness-based Programming

Consistent with Next Generation Early College principles to create an environment that supports the social and emotional learning of all students, this session will experientially engage participants in mindfulness-based practices that can be integrated into educators’ daily actions to promote a supportive school culture, create meaningful connections with students, and assist students in managing stress and regulating emotions.  Practices will be drawn from the Be CALM program, developed in NC with support from the Department of Education, with evidence of impact on both teachers and students.  Resources and opportunities for research-based involvement with the program will be shared.

Speakers
avatar for Desiree W. Murray

Desiree W. Murray

Senior Research Scientist; Presenter, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Desiree W. Murray, PhD, is a prevention scientist and licensed clinical psychologist whose research focuses on understanding the development of self-regulation from multidisciplinary perspectives and applying this knowledge to design and test interventions in schools and early care... Read More →
BR

Beverly Rudolph

Trainer, Be CALM


Wednesday June 5, 2024 10:15am - 11:30am EDT
Empire E

11:45am EDT

Lunch & Team Time
Wednesday June 5, 2024 11:45am - 12:30pm EDT
Imperial Convention Center

12:45pm EDT

Mathematical Modeling: An Honors Elective

Mathematical Modeling is a newly designed Honors Math Elective at Craven Early College.  This writing-intensive course focuses on real-life demonstrations, career exploration, and historical research.  During this session we will look at an overview of the course, how it could be implemented, and what makes this course unique. 

Speakers
avatar for Jimmi Hobbs

Jimmi Hobbs

Teacher, Craven Early College
Math Teacher at Craven Early College. This is my 16th year teaching and my 25th year in education. I have worked in some capacity at every level, from birth to post-secondary. I am passionate about education but I also work hard to have a balanced family and work life. My interests... Read More →


Wednesday June 5, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Empire AB

12:45pm EDT

Building a Successful Business Alliance Partnership to Grow a STEM Student Pipeline

Come prepared to learn the steps taken to redesign and build a successful and effective Business Advisory Board's (BAB) organizational leadership and structure over the past two years.  The restructuring is centered around SCRUM project management methodologies allowing this BAB to become more efficient, nimble, effective, and engaged with students and within the school community.  These strategies are also adapted and effectively used in school level operations.  Participants can expect to begin to develop a strategic plan for effectively engaging partners and glean organizational strategies that help to build effective business engagement and school partnerships.  

Speakers
avatar for Kimberly MacDonald

Kimberly MacDonald

Teacher, Wake STEM Early College High School
avatar for Dr. Drew Ware

Dr. Drew Ware

Principal, Wake STEM Early College High School
JG

John Gordon

Business Advisory Board Chair, Wake STEM Early College High School


Wednesday June 5, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Sandhills

12:45pm EDT

Engaging Minds: Interactive Strategies for Effective Instructional Design

During this interactive session, participants will explore and consider instruction design strategies to intentionally engage students in reading, writing, listening, thinking, and discourse in classroom instruction that they can immediately apply in their classroom.  By the end of the session participants will have access to a variety of instructional resources and will have had the opportunity to discuss implementation with peers.

Speakers
avatar for Michelle Woods

Michelle Woods

Education Consultant, RTI International
TC

Todd Campbell

Education Consultant, RTI International
Todd Campbell has more than fifteen years of professional experience in K-12 education, working with teachers and administrators to build the essential knowledge and skill sets required to challenge and support students. As an expert in professional learning, he leads the customized... Read More →


Wednesday June 5, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Empire C

12:45pm EDT

Messaging Matters: Making FAFSA more Transparent to Increase Student Access

Many students and families are wary of attending college, but there’s hope.  In this session, we will share findings from quantitative and qualitative research that the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA) conducted over the summer to inform messaging strategies when working with students, families, and adult learners.

Speakers
JJ

Jenni Johnson

Presenter, North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority


Wednesday June 5, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Empire E

12:45pm EDT

Uniting Disciplines for Student Success

Have you encountered a sticky issue that seemed to elude your department’s grasp?  Ever wish that you could find someone who could assist in brainstorming a possible solution?
It’s likely that the person could be in your very own school, but in a department you wouldn’t think to look! Our presentation explores ways to find solutions to issues that educators may have by mining an often-overlooked source: peers in other disciplines entirely!
Our process allows for teachers to collaborate in cross-curricular fashion, face-to-face and in a way that allows us to become greater than the sum of our collective parts.

Speakers
GP

Garrick Purdie

Teacher, Duplin Early College High School
avatar for Michael Schramm

Michael Schramm

English Teacher, Duplin Early College High School
RJ

Russell Jackson

Teacher, Duplin Early College High School
PW

Patrick Williams

Teacher, Duplin Early College High School


Wednesday June 5, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Empire D

12:45pm EDT

Supporting Dual Enrollment Partnerships

Dual enrollment, which allows students to take college courses while they are still in high school, has been shown to have positive impacts on students.  Yet dual enrollment is complicated to implement given that it requires a partnership between a high school or district and a postsecondary educational institution.  This presentation will summarize lessons learned from an evaluation of multiple dual enrollment partnerships in New Jersey to create an overview of key components that should be in place for a dual enrollment program to succeed. 

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Elizabeth Glennie

Dr. Elizabeth Glennie

Presenter, RTI International
Hi,I have been studying North Carolina's Early College High Schools for several years - you can learn more about this study at our website.Early College High Schools https://earlycollegeresearch.uncg.edu/Or by reading our book: Early Colleges as a Model for Schoolinghttps://www.hepg.org/hep-home/books/early-colleges-as-a-model-for-schoolingI am currently writing a research brief about dual enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic.I look forward to meeting you at the Early College Summit... Read More →
avatar for Frank McKay

Frank McKay

Director, Peer Learning Networks, RTI International
Frank McKay has dedicated his career to designing and improving educational experiences for students and educators. As RTI's Director for Peer Learning Networks, Frank works with the amazing Early College Network (ECN) team to ensure that member voices and interests guide ECN activities... Read More →


Wednesday June 5, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Imperial II

12:45pm EDT

Creating & Implementing the CDC's School Mental Health Action Guide

RTI International worked with the CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health to develop an action guide that provides six foundational, evidence-based approaches that have been shown to strengthen student resilience and promote mental health and well-being in schools.  This session will briefly discuss the development of the technical package, provide an overview of the approaches included in the package, and highlight key considerations for centering equity in implementation.  Participants will also engage in an interactive process to explore and complete actionable tools to support implementation of selected strategies in their school or school district.  

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Anna Yaros

Dr. Anna Yaros

Presenter, RTI International
Anna Yaros, PhD, is the Director of the Mental Health, Risk, and Resilience Program at RTI and has more than 12 years of experience in prevention and intervention research among children and adolescents. Dr. Yaros has substantive interest in risk and protective factors for a variety... Read More →


Wednesday June 5, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Crown

12:45pm EDT

Senior Seminar Re-envisioned: Teaching Character Traits & Self-Achievement Through Reflective Writing

This session aims to highlight the Comprehensive Academic Portfolio (CAP) implemented at PECHS. CAP, integrated into the senior year curriculum, functions as the culminating senior project for graduation.  Despite the discontinuation of Senior Projects in other educational institutions, PECHS continues to uphold CAP due to its significant value for student development. CAP involves students in the process of collecting evidence and composing reflective essays to demonstrate personal growth in character traits from their freshman year onward.  Subsequently, students construct an Electronic Portfolio, which they present and defend before a panel comprising community members and instructors.

Speakers
DS

Daniel Sidor

Principal, Pender Early College High School


Wednesday June 5, 2024 12:45pm - 2:00pm EDT
Imperial I

2:15pm EDT

Closing Session
Wednesday June 5, 2024 2:15pm - 2:45pm EDT
Imperial Convention Center
 


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