Friday Sessions

Keynote

Building an Effective Multi-Generational Workplace

Presented by Jeff Butler

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This program focuses on managing four different generations in the workplace where author and practitioner Jeff Butler, backed by a decade of psychological research, shares insights about motivations, differences, and communication styles of these four generations. You will learn how organizations across various industries are thriving with a multigenerational workforce and how yours can too. Through this program you’ll find specific actionable strategies to manage your cross-generational challenges and turn your multigenerational workforce into a competitive advantage.

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10:15 AM - 11:25 AM Breakout Sessions 

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The Forgotten Readers: Accelerating Literacy in Grades 4–12

Presented by Robert Frantum-Allen 

Science of Reading initiatives often focus on early grades, leaving many older students with disabilities without effective literacy support. This session explores adolescent literacy through the Simple View of Reading and offers practical strategies for accelerating word recognition and language comprehension in grades 4–12.

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Anxiety/Depression/Mental Health in Adolescents

Deon Bruce, Ed.S
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Talk about sign and supports to put in place for students who struggle with mental health challenges and how that can be show in children and how this ties into culture upbringing.​

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Not Just Study Hall: Meaningful Resource Room Interventions

Presented by Jessica Hovland, PhD & Meredith Motley

 

This presentation provides teachers with effective academic and transition-focused instructional approaches and tools for implementation in intervention classrooms at the secondary level. Research- based strategies in literacy, math and post-secondary readiness skills for students with disabilities will be applied to real life examples and case studies.

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Schools at the Center of a Connected Community

Presented by Ann Wilson & Dr. Tim Vogt

 

​In this interactive session, participants will explore what actions they can take to catalyze social
connections and improve the experiences of students with developmental disabilities. We will draw
from Tim’s work with inclusive communities and the question Who’s In Your Life? (his book title).
Participants will work together to imagine ways to shift mindsets and build communities that include
everyone.

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Hands on Strategies for making Math Intervention Work through Cohesion, Trajectories, and Targeted Practices

Presented by Susan F Resnic

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Math Intervention that is separated from core instruction often does not transfer to classroom performance. Come learn how using strong screening tools for early intervention, research based learning trajectories, specific and actionable progress monitoring and targeted practice has transformed learning and translated to classroom success in several regular and specialized schools.

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Empowering Voices: Team Approaches to Everyday AAC

Presented by Samantha Rozakis Cosgrove & Melonie Melton, Chrissy Blanchard-Alworth

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A team that includes a speech/language pathologist, special educator/administrator, and adaptive PE teacher will describe their collaborative approach for supporting students with complex communication needs and helping them develop fluent AAC use. The presentation will highlight collaborative planning techniques, communication partner training approaches, and practical resources.

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Educating Ourselves & Others: Strategies from LEAD Students

Presented by Cheyenne Mountain High School LEAD Program

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Join CMHS LEAD students in an overview and open discussion of learning disabilities from their own perspectives. Learn how these students are drivers of their academic achievement and growth and engage in dialogue about how adults can empower them as they navigate their learning disabilities, ADHD, and mental health challenges.

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Practical Executive Function Strategies for the Elementary Classroom

Presented by Debra McQueen

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Executive function (EF) is the brain's "air traffic control." In 6-to-10-year-olds, EF deficits often masquerade as laziness or defiance. This 70-minute interactive session bridges general and special education, equipping participants with an evidence-based toolkit to practically support working memory, task initiation, emotional control, and classroom organization.

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Interpret with Caution: Assessments for Multilingual Learners

Presented by Hunter Smith

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This session introduces Kate Mahoney’s PUMI framework to critically analyze monolingual assessment tools

used in comprehensive special education evaluations for multilingual learners. Participants will learn to examine purpose, use, meaning, and impact to ensure valid interpretation, reduce bias, and strengthen legally defensible, linguistically responsive evaluation practices.​​​

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Reframing Support: Mental Health at the Intersection of Neurodivergence

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Presented by Karan Steuart

​​​This interactive workshop explores how neurodivergence and mental health intersect in K–12 students. We’ll look at how anxiety, depression, and burnout can show up in everyday school behavior and share practical, trauma-informed strategies educators, families, and providers can use to better support regulation, learning, and belonging.

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Calming Chaos: Run Toward the Kid Who Runs

Presented by Caron A. Westland, Ph.D., Lauren Levey, & Tonja Castaneda

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This session equips educators with relationship‐centered strategies for reaching every learner (including 2e), especially those with challenging behaviors, to support classrooms or when consulting with colleagues. Through interactive activities and hands‐on practice, participants will learn to support students with empathy, connection, and confidence—reframing behavior as communication and transforming relationships.​

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Translanguaging: An Equity-Driven Approach for Dually Identified Learners

Presented by Deena Gumina & Tania Hogan

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In this interactive session, participants will explore how translanguaging pedagogy supports dually identified students. By integrating home languages into IEP-aligned instruction, educators can challenge monolingual norms and create inclusive, asset-based classrooms that connect language development with disability support.​

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11:45 AM - 1:15 PM Luncheon Sessions

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Think Beyond the Job – Creating Opportunities for Self-Employment

Presented by Linda Anderson

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There’s more than one path to a meaningful career. Discover how entrepreneurship can create new possibilities for people with disabilities. Through real-world examples, practical strategies,

and accessible tools, learn how to foster entrepreneurial thinking and help students turn their ideas and talents into self-employment opportunities and thriving businesses.

What happens when life gives you reasons to believe you can’t?

Presented by Carlos Valdez

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Carlos Valdez shares his journey of turning challenges into opportunities, embracing a different perspective, and finding the courage to take risks. Discover how changing the way you see yourself and your circumstances can change what you believe is possible.

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From Policy to Power: Know the Law, Find Your Voice, Change the Story

Presented by The Honorable Julie McCluskie, Former Speaker of the Colorado House Of Representatives

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How have Colorado's education and special education policies changed over the past eight years—and what do those changes mean for students, educators, families, and advocates? This interactive session offers a practical overview of significant legislation, then shifts from policy to action: how teachers and advocates can use storytelling, collective voice, civic engagement, and lived experience to influence decision- makers and create meaningful change.

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1:45 PM - 2:55 PM Breakout Sessions

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CO-MTSS as a Verb

Presented by Brandi Durr

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For leaders and champions interested in systems improvement, hear how to turn a robust framework into action by applying simple levers from each of the essential components of the CO-MTSS framework. These are low cost practices that led to implementation successes and positive student outcomes in a rural region.

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Connecting Literacy Instruction Across the Tiers

Presented by Corey Pollard, M.S.

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We know more than ever about how students learn to read, so why does instruction still feel disconnected? In this session, we’ll share how to use repeatable literacy routines to connect Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 instruction to create more cohesive, effective systems for all students.​​

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From Chaos to Capability: 2e Executive Function Support

Presented by Michelle Lewis & Jenifer Nerwin

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Twice-exceptional students often have brilliant cognitive abilities masked by executive function gaps. This session explores how asynchronous development disrupts organization, time management, and self-regulation. Participants will gain actionable strategies to bridge this gap, leaving with a practical toolkit to empower 2e learners to master executive functioning skills and navigate the classroom with confidence.

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Access for All: Pivoting from Portals to Bridges

Presented by Kelly Grove & Dina Horsch

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This presentation introduces a framework to target educational rigor with neurodivergent learners. This presentation calls for a structural shift: trading portals for bridges. The Bridge Mantra: We go to the small group table to get the tools we need to win at our big desks. "What bridge does this student need to cross to close the gap with grade level expectations?"

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Psychological and Physical Safety within School Safety Teams

Presented by Allie Miller, LCSW & Cary Lynch, MA, EdS, NCSP

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This session explores how risk assessment processes intersect with the unique needs of students with Autism and other disabilities. Participants will learn how to effectively support students through collaboration between special education teams and school resource officers while maintaining both physical and psychological safety within school communities.

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Integrating Digital Manipulatives and Interventions for Student Success

Presented by Jen McCabe & Juanita Jacobo- Garcia

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Bring instructional concepts to life with digital manipulatives that enhance interventions and deepen understanding. Explore tools for literacy and executive functioning, ready-to-use scaffolds, and data- driven IEP resources. Leave with practical strategies, progress monitoring systems, and a comprehensive toolkit to support all learners—including MTSS tiers and Spanish interventions.​​​​

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Breaking Barriers: Supporting HS Students with Social/Emotional Challenges

Presented by Meaghan Anderson

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​High school students with social-emotional challenges face barriers to academic and personal success. Struggles with emotional regulation, executive functioning, and relationships can lead to disengagement and frustration. This session explores strategies to support these students, fostering resilience, self-advocacy, and success in both learning and life.

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Like-Peer Comparative Data Process

Presented by Brie Johnson

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This session focuses on strengthening equitable decision-making for Multilingual Learners (MLs) through the use of like-peer comparative data. Participants will learn how to apply data from linguistically and culturally comparable peers to inform instructional, intervention, and referral decisions.

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Adult Sexual Misconduct Prevention

Presented by Jae Dee Wood & Julie Osborne

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Learn about adult sexual misconduct, identify types of sexual harassment, and describe adult/student interactions. Staff will understand the importance of maintaining professional and boundaries with students and identifying grooming concerning child sexual abuse. This session is personalized for special education schools with best practices, built environments, and considerations for hands-on assists.

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From Access to Readiness: Embedding Trauma-Conscious, Adaptive Movement into Special Education Systems

Presented by Stefanie Gross

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This session explores how trauma-conscious, adaptive movement supports regulation and readiness to learn in special education. Participants will gain evidence-informed, practical strategies to embed movement and breathwork into classrooms, improving engagement, participation, and inclusion across diverse student populations.

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Unlocking the EEOs: Meaningful Instruction for Students

Presented by Gina Herrera

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Learn how to unpack the Extended Evidence Outcomes (EEOs) and use the DLM Mini-Maps. We’ll explore resources to provide modifications and strategies that maintain instructional rigor while ensuring every student with Significant Support Needs (SSN) can meaningfully engage with the general education curriculum.

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3:15 PM - 4:25 PM Breakout Sessions

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Developing Culturally and Linguistically Affirming IEPs

Presented by Alison G Boardman & Lydia Sollenberger

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We will explore key elements for collecting a comprehensive body of evidence to support multilingual learners in the IEP process. For students who qualify for special education services, we’ll explore how to use the body of evidence to design individualized supports and accommodations that reflect students’ unique needs.

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Supporting Families Using the DEC Recommended Practices

Presented by Andrea Laser, Ed.D. & Julia Pfitzer, Ed.D.

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Join us to learn how the Division for Early Childhood Recommended Practices (DEC RPs) and associated tools can support families. The DEC RPs can support families to be more engaged, informed, and advocate for their children. We will discuss tools and resources, collaborating on ideas for sharing them with families.

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Decoding Behavior: Playful Tools, Lasting Change!

Presented by Cynthia Hildner

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Learn behavior frameworks that unlock what's truly driving challenging behavior, helping you respond with clarity, confidence, and connection. Join this interactive session to discover ready-to-use visual tools and bite-size practices to shift behavior, calm nervous systems, strengthen classroom relationships, and have more fun!

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Don’t Just Evaluate—Elevate Through Targeted Coaching

Presented by Robin Brewer, Ed.D., Kelsey Mang, Nicole Wider, & Cheryl Fullmer

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Transform service delivery for students with extensive support needs (ESN) using Colorado’s Quality Indicators. This session demonstrates how targeted coaching and collaborative evaluations empower teams to analyze data, prioritize growth, and develop actionable plans. Increase your students’ success through hands-on, exemplary coached practice tailored to your school's unique needs.

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Stronger Together: Parent Stories of Challenge, Triumph, and the Power of Inclusion

Presented by Jennifer Hagood, Laura Jacobo, Cari Krebs, & Daenna DeHaan

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This session invites participants into a powerful, heartfelt exploration of what inclusion truly means— through the voices and lived experiences of parents. Stronger Together highlights real stories of challenge, perseverance, and the transformational impact that inclusive practices have on students, families, and school communities.

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Unlocking Literacy Strategies for Secondary Learners

Presented by Jeanne Bonds, EdS & Erin Wise

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Join this co-led session with a Secondary Literacy TOSA and ELD TOSA/Coach to explore how the Science of Reading and Scarborough’s Reading Rope can guide literacy strategies to support ALL secondary learners. Gain practical, low-prep, evidence-based strategies you can implement immediately to support diverse learners in accessing rigorous content across disciplines.

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What They Carry: 2e Learners and Secondary Transition

Presented by Kacy Little Owl & Connolly Sherwood

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Twice‐exceptional (2e, learners with disabilities and who are identified as gifted) students often navigate school and Secondary Transition in ways that are not immediately visible. Through two brief interactive experiences, this session builds insight into how fit shapes outcomes. Participants will leave with practical 2e Secondary Transition strategies and resources to apply immediately.

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Reaching All of Our Students by Embracing Neurodiversity

Presented by Scott Schwartz, Ph.D., CCC/SLP

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Understanding neurodiversity helps educators recognize differences as natural variations of the human brain. This fosters empathy, respect, success, safety, and reduces teacher/student frustration. Recognizing students’ abilities across cognitive and non-cognitive domains helps match expectations to abilities. Understanding these domains can drive appropriate accommodations and improve academic performance and behavior.

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AI a Teaching Superpower Part Deux

Presented by Mollie Pitrone​​

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Part two of my series turns AI into a teacher’s superpower. Move beyond the burnout and discover how AI tools can streamline planning, differentiate instruction, and provide instant feedback. Reclaim your time and amplify your creativity with practical, hands-on strategies designed to keep the human element at the heart of learning.

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Collaborating with your Para

Presented by Tammy Alexander

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This presentation outlines how to supports ParaEducators at any grade level through clear communication, organized tools, student-centered strategies, and defined roles. It emphasizes collaboration with all school staff, having a detailed para binder, use of simple data collection, behavior support, opportunities for professional growth, and teamwork to promote student independence and meaningful inclusion.

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Meaningful, Dynamic, and Efficient Service Delivery

Presented by Bri Makofske, Ph.D.

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Intended to be interactive for the intermediate to advanced practitioner, this session includes non- traditional ways of approaching direct service, examples of measurable IEP Goals, and ways to increase flexibility and efficiency with service delivery. Highlighted through a video example, learn how we can go beyond the standard small group curriculum.