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Team Leader Academy 2025

✈️ Pack Your Bags for Day 2 of the 2025 Team Leader Academy! 🧳
Get ready to chart your course for a day of exploration and learning on July 24, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, at the Plano ISD Sockwell Center—your destination for professional growth!

📍 Travel Hub:
Sockwell Center
6301 Chapel Hill Blvd
Plano, TX 75093

🗺️ Sched Navigation Tips – Your Guide to a Smooth Journey:

  • Use the navigation menu (your compass!) on the right side of the screen to filter by session type (Elementary, Secondary, etc.).

  • Reserve your seat on each learning excursion by clicking the circle icon next to the session title.

  • Need help navigating? Check out the Sched travel guide here.

🕒 Itinerary Details:
All sessions are 40-minute layovers in your learning journey. There are four time slots throughout the day—plan to board four different sessions for a full day of discovery.

📬 Have questions along the way?
Your travel agent, Kyle Fritsche, is ready to help! Reach out at kyle.fritsche@pisd.edu.
Audience: Elementary and Secondary clear filter
Thursday, July 24
 

8:30am CDT

Designing for Depth
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Addressing the unique needs of learners doesn't have to be overwhelming.  In this session, let's explore how to support your team in proactively planning for depth in the classroom, not only for advanced students, but for all learners. 
Speakers
avatar for Amy Moore

Amy Moore

Coordinator, Advanced Academics
28 years as a PISD educator, I have spent most of my career as a gifted specialist and the last several years as a coordinator for both the IB Primary Years Program at Huffman Elementary and currently the Advanced Academics Coordinator. My passions in education include collaborating... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

8:30am CDT

Dive into Data Analysis
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Data analysis happens throughout the year. In this session, you will learn about the recommended reports and protocols from ARPE. This can assist you and your teams utilize the most up to date information to make instructional decisions and best support your students.
Speakers
CM

Chris Mutke

Assessment Specialist, ARPE
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

8:30am CDT

Goodbye Projector, Hello BenQ!
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Come say hi to the new guy - The BenQ Interactive Flat Panel! Participants will learn how to sign-in, annotate lessons, and display content from multiple devices with ease. The session will also explore features that support interactive and engaging learning experiences. By the end, teachers will feel confident using the panel to enhance student participation and streamline instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Leah Heerema

Leah Heerema

Specialist, Digital Learning
Lifelong learner dedicated to helping others grow their understanding and capabilities in instructional technology! Master's in Learning Technologies, B.B.A. in Marketing, Certified Teacher, Certified Technology Director, Google Certified Trainer, Presenter at international, state... Read More →
avatar for Clara Alaniz

Clara Alaniz

Specialist, Digital Learning
Hi! I am your nerdy BFF who is addicted to learning and passionate about educational technology. I have been a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD since 2002. Before that, I was a classroom teacher at the elementary level. I am a certified TX principal, certified technology director... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

8:30am CDT

Google Game-Changing Hacks
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Let's build on all your Google-y skills! This session will highlight familiar tools while introducing time-saving tips, hidden features, and shortcuts to boost productivity. Participants will explore ways to streamline tasks, organize their workflow, and make everyday teaching more efficient. 
Speakers
avatar for Lilly Jensby

Lilly Jensby

Specialist, Digital Learning
I am thrilled to be a part of the Digital Learning Team! As part of the DLT, I support the curricular areas of  Advanced Academics/PACE, Computer Science & Robotics, Fine Arts, ROTC, and Science K-12.  My favorite aspect of my job is supporting and building connections with the... Read More →
avatar for Fern Johnson

Fern Johnson

Specialist, Digital Learning
I'm currently a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD and a former math teacher and technology auditor. My formal education includes an M.Ed. in Learning and Technology and BS in Accounting. Teacher certs: EC - 8 Generalist; EC-12 Special Education; 4-8 Math; and EC-12 ESL I can... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

8:30am CDT

Maximizing Learning for ALL Students: Practical Differentiation Using Proficiency Scales in Your Classroom and Team
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
In today’s educational landscape, the definition of student success is broader than ever. This session provides campus leaders and department chairs with practical strategies to ensure every learner is seen, supported, and challenged—without losing sight of accountability, instructional priorities, or teacher workload. Participants will gain the confidence and clarity needed to lead equitable instructional transformation from any role.
Speakers
avatar for Vanessa Conatser

Vanessa Conatser

Coordinator, Dyslexia
Vanessa is currently the Coordinator for Dyslexia Services for Plano ISD. As a previous ESL Instructional Specialist for Plano ISD, she now has the pleasure of merging these two worlds to help identify bilingual students with dyslexia with the same tenacity as monolingual students... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

8:30am CDT

The Teachers Role in the MTSS Framework
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
This session explores the MTSS framework as a holistic, whole-child approach that integrates prevention, enrichment, and targeted interventions. Participants will learn how to utilize active progress monitoring and collaborative decision-making teams to effectively support the diverse needs of all students and promote their overall growth in academic achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Lori Brooks

Lori Brooks

Coordinator of 504, SPED
avatar for Kimmie Conlon

Kimmie Conlon

Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support/Section 504, SPED
avatar for Stephanie Aldridge

Stephanie Aldridge

Coordinator of MTSS, SPED
Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

10:00am CDT

Designing for Depth
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Speakers
avatar for Amy Moore

Amy Moore

Coordinator, Advanced Academics
28 years as a PISD educator, I have spent most of my career as a gifted specialist and the last several years as a coordinator for both the IB Primary Years Program at Huffman Elementary and currently the Advanced Academics Coordinator. My passions in education include collaborating... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

10:00am CDT

Dive into Data Analysis
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Data analysis happens throughout the year. In this session, you will learn about the recommended reports and protocols from ARPE. This can assist you and your teams utilize the most up to date information to make instructional decisions and best support your students.
Speakers
CM

Chris Mutke

Assessment Specialist, ARPE
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

10:00am CDT

Goodbye Projector, Hello BenQ!
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Come say hi to the new guy - The BenQ Interactive Flat Panel! Participants will learn how to sign-in, annotate lessons, and display content from multiple devices with ease. The session will also explore features that support interactive and engaging learning experiences. By the end, teachers will feel confident using the panel to enhance student participation and streamline instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Leah Heerema

Leah Heerema

Specialist, Digital Learning
Lifelong learner dedicated to helping others grow their understanding and capabilities in instructional technology! Master's in Learning Technologies, B.B.A. in Marketing, Certified Teacher, Certified Technology Director, Google Certified Trainer, Presenter at international, state... Read More →
avatar for Clara Alaniz

Clara Alaniz

Specialist, Digital Learning
Hi! I am your nerdy BFF who is addicted to learning and passionate about educational technology. I have been a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD since 2002. Before that, I was a classroom teacher at the elementary level. I am a certified TX principal, certified technology director... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

10:00am CDT

Google Game-Changing Hacks
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Let's build on all your Google-y skills! This session will highlight familiar tools while introducing time-saving tips, hidden features, and shortcuts to boost productivity. Participants will explore ways to streamline tasks, organize their workflow, and make everyday teaching more efficient. 
Speakers
avatar for Lilly Jensby

Lilly Jensby

Specialist, Digital Learning
I am thrilled to be a part of the Digital Learning Team! As part of the DLT, I support the curricular areas of  Advanced Academics/PACE, Computer Science & Robotics, Fine Arts, ROTC, and Science K-12.  My favorite aspect of my job is supporting and building connections with the... Read More →
avatar for Fern Johnson

Fern Johnson

Specialist, Digital Learning
I'm currently a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD and a former math teacher and technology auditor. My formal education includes an M.Ed. in Learning and Technology and BS in Accounting. Teacher certs: EC - 8 Generalist; EC-12 Special Education; 4-8 Math; and EC-12 ESL I can... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

10:00am CDT

Maximizing Learning for ALL Students: Practical Differentiation Using Proficiency Scales in Your Classroom and Team
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
In today’s educational landscape, the definition of student success is broader than ever. This session provides campus leaders and department chairs with practical strategies to ensure every learner is seen, supported, and challenged—without losing sight of accountability, instructional priorities, or teacher workload. Participants will gain the confidence and clarity needed to lead equitable instructional transformation from any role.
Speakers
avatar for Vanessa Conatser

Vanessa Conatser

Coordinator, Dyslexia
Vanessa is currently the Coordinator for Dyslexia Services for Plano ISD. As a previous ESL Instructional Specialist for Plano ISD, she now has the pleasure of merging these two worlds to help identify bilingual students with dyslexia with the same tenacity as monolingual students... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

10:00am CDT

Navigating Leadership: Sharing the Road and Partnering with Your Team
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Great teams start with strong partnerships. Using Jim Knight’s Seven Principles for True Partnership as our guide, this session will explore how team leaders can build trust, promote shared decision-making, and lead alongside—not above—their teams. You’ll leave with practical strategies for creating a collaborative, empowering culture on your team. 
Speakers
avatar for Kyle Fritsche

Kyle Fritsche

Professional Learning Coordinator, Plano ISD
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

10:00am CDT

The Teachers Role in the MTSS Framework
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
This session explores the MTSS framework as a holistic, whole-child approach that integrates prevention, enrichment, and targeted interventions. Participants will learn how to utilize active progress monitoring and collaborative decision-making teams to effectively support the diverse needs of all students and promote their overall growth in academic achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Lori Brooks

Lori Brooks

Coordinator of 504, SPED
avatar for Kimmie Conlon

Kimmie Conlon

Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support/Section 504, SPED
avatar for Stephanie Aldridge

Stephanie Aldridge

Coordinator of MTSS, SPED
Thursday July 24, 2025 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

1:00pm CDT

A Fresh Take with Pear Deck and Pear Start
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Come learn about Pear Deck and its powerful new AI companion, Pear Start! The session will highlight how to integrate these time-saving AI features seamlessly into everyday instruction. By the end, educators will be equipped to use Pear Deck more efficiently and make their lessons more interactive with less prep time.
Speakers
avatar for Clara Alaniz

Clara Alaniz

Specialist, Digital Learning
Hi! I am your nerdy BFF who is addicted to learning and passionate about educational technology. I have been a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD since 2002. Before that, I was a classroom teacher at the elementary level. I am a certified TX principal, certified technology director... Read More →
avatar for Fern Johnson

Fern Johnson

Specialist, Digital Learning
I'm currently a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD and a former math teacher and technology auditor. My formal education includes an M.Ed. in Learning and Technology and BS in Accounting. Teacher certs: EC - 8 Generalist; EC-12 Special Education; 4-8 Math; and EC-12 ESL I can... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

1:00pm CDT

Dive into Data Analysis
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Data analysis happens throughout the year. In this session, you will learn about the recommended reports and protocols from ARPE. This can assist you and your teams utilize the most up to date information to make instructional decisions and best support your students.
Speakers
CM

Chris Mutke

Assessment Specialist, ARPE
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

1:00pm CDT

Explain Everything to Engage Everyone!
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Explain Everything is a powerful digital whiteboard tool for creating dynamic and engaging lessons. Educators will explore how to visually model concepts and record their interactive lessons. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use strategies to boost engagement with iPads and Explain Everything!
Speakers
avatar for Lilly Jensby

Lilly Jensby

Specialist, Digital Learning
I am thrilled to be a part of the Digital Learning Team! As part of the DLT, I support the curricular areas of  Advanced Academics/PACE, Computer Science & Robotics, Fine Arts, ROTC, and Science K-12.  My favorite aspect of my job is supporting and building connections with the... Read More →
avatar for Leah Heerema

Leah Heerema

Specialist, Digital Learning
Lifelong learner dedicated to helping others grow their understanding and capabilities in instructional technology! Master's in Learning Technologies, B.B.A. in Marketing, Certified Teacher, Certified Technology Director, Google Certified Trainer, Presenter at international, state... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

1:00pm CDT

Maximizing Learning for ALL Students: Practical Differentiation Using Proficiency Scales in Your Classroom and Team
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
In today’s educational landscape, the definition of student success is broader than ever. This session provides campus leaders and department chairs with practical strategies to ensure every learner is seen, supported, and challenged—without losing sight of accountability, instructional priorities, or teacher workload. Participants will gain the confidence and clarity needed to lead equitable instructional transformation from any role.
Speakers
avatar for Vanessa Conatser

Vanessa Conatser

Coordinator, Dyslexia
Vanessa is currently the Coordinator for Dyslexia Services for Plano ISD. As a previous ESL Instructional Specialist for Plano ISD, she now has the pleasure of merging these two worlds to help identify bilingual students with dyslexia with the same tenacity as monolingual students... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

1:00pm CDT

Navigating Leadership: Sharing the Road and Partnering with Your Team
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Great teams start with strong partnerships. Using Jim Knight’s Seven Principles for True Partnership as our guide, this session will explore how team leaders can build trust, promote shared decision-making, and lead alongside—not above—their teams. You’ll leave with practical strategies for creating a collaborative, empowering culture on your team. 
Speakers
avatar for Kyle Fritsche

Kyle Fritsche

Professional Learning Coordinator, Plano ISD
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

1:00pm CDT

The Teachers Role in the MTSS Framework
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
 This session explores the MTSS framework as a holistic, whole-child approach that integrates prevention, enrichment, and targeted interventions. Participants will learn how to utilize active progress monitoring and collaborative decision-making teams to effectively support the diverse needs of all students and promote their overall growth in academic achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Lori Brooks

Lori Brooks

Coordinator of 504, SPED
avatar for Kimmie Conlon

Kimmie Conlon

Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support/Section 504, SPED
avatar for Stephanie Aldridge

Stephanie Aldridge

Coordinator of MTSS, SPED
Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

2:30pm CDT

A Fresh Take with Pear Deck and Pear Start
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Come learn about Pear Deck and its powerful new AI companion, Pear Start! The session will highlight how to integrate these time-saving AI features seamlessly into everyday instruction. By the end, educators will be equipped to use Pear Deck more efficiently and make their lessons more interactive with less prep time.
Speakers
avatar for Clara Alaniz

Clara Alaniz

Specialist, Digital Learning
Hi! I am your nerdy BFF who is addicted to learning and passionate about educational technology. I have been a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD since 2002. Before that, I was a classroom teacher at the elementary level. I am a certified TX principal, certified technology director... Read More →
avatar for Fern Johnson

Fern Johnson

Specialist, Digital Learning
I'm currently a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD and a former math teacher and technology auditor. My formal education includes an M.Ed. in Learning and Technology and BS in Accounting. Teacher certs: EC - 8 Generalist; EC-12 Special Education; 4-8 Math; and EC-12 ESL I can... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

2:30pm CDT

Dive into Data Analysis
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Data analysis happens throughout the year. In this session, you will learn about the recommended reports and protocols from ARPE. This can assist you and your teams utilize the most up to date information to make instructional decisions and best support your students.
Speakers
CM

Chris Mutke

Assessment Specialist, ARPE
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

2:30pm CDT

Explain Everything to Engage Everyone!
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Explain Everything is a powerful digital whiteboard tool for creating dynamic and engaging lessons. Educators will explore how to visually model concepts and record their interactive lessons. Teachers will leave with ready-to-use strategies to boost engagement with iPads and Explain Everything!
Speakers
avatar for Lilly Jensby

Lilly Jensby

Specialist, Digital Learning
I am thrilled to be a part of the Digital Learning Team! As part of the DLT, I support the curricular areas of  Advanced Academics/PACE, Computer Science & Robotics, Fine Arts, ROTC, and Science K-12.  My favorite aspect of my job is supporting and building connections with the... Read More →
avatar for Leah Heerema

Leah Heerema

Specialist, Digital Learning
Lifelong learner dedicated to helping others grow their understanding and capabilities in instructional technology! Master's in Learning Technologies, B.B.A. in Marketing, Certified Teacher, Certified Technology Director, Google Certified Trainer, Presenter at international, state... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

2:30pm CDT

Maximizing Learning for ALL Students: Practical Differentiation Using Proficiency Scales in Your Classroom and Team
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
In today’s educational landscape, the definition of student success is broader than ever. This session provides campus leaders and department chairs with practical strategies to ensure every learner is seen, supported, and challenged—without losing sight of accountability, instructional priorities, or teacher workload. Participants will gain the confidence and clarity needed to lead equitable instructional transformation from any role.
Speakers
avatar for Vanessa Conatser

Vanessa Conatser

Coordinator, Dyslexia
Vanessa is currently the Coordinator for Dyslexia Services for Plano ISD. As a previous ESL Instructional Specialist for Plano ISD, she now has the pleasure of merging these two worlds to help identify bilingual students with dyslexia with the same tenacity as monolingual students... Read More →
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

2:30pm CDT

Navigating Leadership: Sharing the Road and Partnering with Your Team
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Great teams start with strong partnerships. Using Jim Knight’s Seven Principles for True Partnership as our guide, this session will explore how team leaders can build trust, promote shared decision-making, and lead alongside—not above—their teams. You’ll leave with practical strategies for creating a collaborative, empowering culture on your team. 
Speakers
avatar for Kyle Fritsche

Kyle Fritsche

Professional Learning Coordinator, Plano ISD
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs

2:30pm CDT

The Teachers Role in the MTSS Framework
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
This session explores the MTSS framework as a holistic, whole-child approach that integrates prevention, enrichment, and targeted interventions. Participants will learn how to utilize active progress monitoring and collaborative decision-making teams to effectively support the diverse needs of all students and promote their overall growth in academic achievement.
Speakers
avatar for Lori Brooks

Lori Brooks

Coordinator of 504, SPED
avatar for Kimmie Conlon

Kimmie Conlon

Director of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support/Section 504, SPED
avatar for Stephanie Aldridge

Stephanie Aldridge

Coordinator of MTSS, SPED
Thursday July 24, 2025 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
  BOTH Elementary & Secondary TLs
 
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