NCED Connect Symposium Fall 2026: Full Schedule

arrow_back View All Dates

10:00am EDT

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Limited Capacity seats available

Want to engage students in standards instruction? Stop motion movie making is a fun and easy way to do that. In this session participants will learn how to create stop motion movies using an iPad and whatever items you have on hand. Participants will discuss how they can incorporate this tool into engaging standard instruction.

Speakers

Summer Dail

Summer has been an educator for over 20 years. Her experience spans from paraprofessional roles to district level roles. She holds Master's Degrees in Library Media Science and School Administration and is an ISTE Certified educator. Her newest role working for DPI serving as the... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Imperial Ballroom B Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels

10:00am EDT

AI Policy 3.0: Sustaining Success

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Imperial Ballroom GH

Limited Capacity seats available

Now in our 3rd year of GenAI implementation, Stokes County Schools explores shifting from initial policy creation to a mature framework. "AI Policy 3.0" reveals multi-year lessons on scaling responsible AI, adapting guidelines, and maintaining trust. Leave with practical tools and templates to sustain future-ready AI in your district.

Speakers

Brooke Johnson

Kimberley Thompson-Hairston

Director of Media and Technology & PIO, Stokes County Schools

Dr. Kimberley Thompson-Hairston is a seasoned educational leader and technology strategist with over 18 years of experience in K–12 and higher education. She currently serves as Director of Media and Technology and Public Information Officer, overseeing district-wide tech initiatives... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Imperial Ballroom GH Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

10:00am EDT

Connected Districts: Leveraging NCTIES to Solve Real-World Tech Challenges

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Carolina

Limited Capacity seats available

While NCTIES is widely known for its annual state conference, our mission to support North Carolina public school units (PSUs) runs 365 days a year. Join us for an interactive session to discover how NCTIES actively partners with district leaders, instructional tech facilitators, media specialists, and IT teams to fuel innovation, remove operational friction, and build sustainable tech ecosystems. No district should have to solve systemic edtech and operational challenges in isolation. NCTIES connects NC educators and IT teams with the collective wisdom of their regional peers. Attend this session to learn how NCTIES supports your PSU through targeted regional gatherings, collaborative problem-solving frameworks (FUEL, FRICTION, and SPARK), and direct pipelines to state leadership. Come ready to learn what's available to your district and how your team can get involved right away.

Speakers

Melanie Honeycutt

ED, NCTIES

I have retired after 32 years of experience as an educator, from roles as a Media Coordinator and Instructional Technology Facilitator to working with the North Carolina Department of Digital Teaching and Learning, and most recently serving as the Chief Information Officer for a public... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Carolina Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

10:00am EDT

Digital Accessibility in Google Slides

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Colony A

Limited Capacity seats available

Google Slides can support engaging instruction and communication, but slide decks must be designed accessibly. In this session, participants will learn how to create and revise Google Slides presentations using accessibility best practices, including clear layouts, slide titles, reading order, alt text, readable formatting, and color contrast.

Speakers

Josh Barton

Josh Barton is the Digital Accessibility Coordinator with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where he supports digital learning, accessibility, and inclusive technology practices across North Carolina schools. His work includes developing guidance, resources, professional... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Colony A Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

10:00am EDT

Empathy & Design

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Arrowhead AB

Limited Capacity seats available

Empathy is more than a value; it is a powerful design skill that creates impactful learning experiences. Learn how understanding learners' needs, perspectives, and barriers lead to more engaging, accessible, and meaningful learning. Explore practical tools and strategies that leverage empathy as a design skill to transform instruction and learning.

Speakers

Brian Whitson

Piedmont-Triad Digital Learning Consultant, NCDPI

Brian, an ISTE + ASCD Certified EdTech Leader, serves as the Digital Teaching & Learning Consultant for the Piedmont Triad Region at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. He served as an instructional coach, technology facilitator, and STEM/science teacher in Rowan-Salisbury... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Arrowhead AB Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

10:00am EDT

LEADING THE WAY: AI Implementation

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Biltmore AB

Limited Capacity seats available

Explore how Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools approaches AI with purpose and responsibility. Learn how the district built governance, engaged stakeholders, and used pilot programs to guide implementation. Gain practical strategies for scaling AI with a focus on data privacy, instruction, and workforce readiness.

Speakers

Rebecca Lehtinen

Rebecca Lehtinen is an experienced educational technology leader whose career spans classroom teaching and district leadership. She began as a second-grade teacher, where she saw how technology can spark curiosity and transform learning—an experience that continues to shape her... Read More →

Dr. Candace Salmon-Hosey

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Biltmore AB Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels

10:00am EDT

Making Screen Time Purposeful

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Imperial Ballroom E

Limited Capacity seats available

How do you know when technology is worth the screen time? In this interactive session, educators will explore practical, UDL-aligned strategies for intentional tech use. Using Adobe Express, participants will create a classroom-ready resource and leave with a clear plan for purposeful, inclusive learning.

Speakers

Allyson Medlin

District Digital Teaching & Learning, Davidson County Schools

This is my third year serving as a Digital Teaching & Learning Coach. I spent the previous 17 years in the classroom in the elementary setting before moving into this position. Technology has always been a passion of mine. My goal is to help teachers intentionally use technology in... Read More →

Libby Moretz

ITF, Davidson County Schools

Libby is a seasoned digital learning coach with more than a decade of experience partnering with students and educators to create engaging, meaningful learning experiences. She is a certified K–12 Spanish teacher with both in-person and virtual classroom experience. Her work is... Read More →

Sue Tobin

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Imperial Ballroom E Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels

10:00am EDT

ELA Standards in Schoolnet

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Blandwood

Limited Capacity seats available

ELA standards updates don't have to mean starting over. Learn how to retain existing created Schoolnet items and tests, evaluate alignment to updated standards, and re-align metadata. Leave with a repeatable workflow and transition plan to support assessment readiness for the 2027–2028 school year.

Speakers

Rebecca Stokes

Instructional Improvement Consultant, NCDPI

Rebecca works at DPI as an Instructional Improvement Systems Consultant. She has been in education for 18 years serving as a Classroom Teacher, Digital Literacy Coach, and Instructional Technology Facilitator. Rebecca is passionate about helping classroom teachers and coaches with... Read More →

Catherine Simone

Implementation Manager, Pearson

Catherine Simone, Senior Project Manager, has twenty-five years of experience as a teacher and administrator in school districts and charter schools, five years of experience at state level education and implementation management for public school districts, and is passionate about... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Blandwood Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Intermediate | Coaches & SLMC, Intermediate

10:00am EDT

STEM That Sticks: Systems That Last

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT

Imperial Ballroom C

Limited Capacity seats available

STEM isn’t a program—it’s an ecosystem. In this interactive session, participants will explore how to build a sustainable, district-wide STEM framework that connects curriculum, technology, partnerships, and real-world learning. Walk away with practical tools and strategies to design a STEM system that lasts.

Speakers

Jill Rogers

STEM Coordinator, Richmond County Schools

Jill Rogers is the District STEM Coordinator for Richmond County Schools in North Carolina, where they lead the development of innovative, hands-on learning experiences that connect STEM to real-world applications. They support schools through curriculum integration, teacher training... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am EDT
Imperial Ballroom C Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | NCSIS, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

11:00am EDT

Digital Accessibility in Google Docs

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT

Colony A

Limited Capacity seats available

Google Docs is a common tool for instruction, communication, and collaboration, but documents must be designed with accessibility in mind. In this session, participants will learn practical strategies for creating more accessible Google Docs, including headings, links, alt text, tables, lists, and readable formatting.

Speakers

Josh Barton

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Colony A Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

11:00am EDT

How to Train Your Algorithm

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT

Carolina

Limited Capacity seats available

Our online behavior trains what algorithms show us next. Participants will explore how clicks, watches, likes, shares, searches, and pauses shape digital feeds. Attendees will connect these ideas to media literacy, misinformation, digital citizenship, bias, and digital wellness.

Speakers

Mollee Holloman

School Library Education Consultant, NCDPI Digital Teaching & Learning

Mollee Holloman is currently serving as the School Library Education Consultant for North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, in the division of Digital Teaching & Learning. A steward of stories and curator of worldly experiences using text + tech, she's driven to help adapt... Read More →

Sabrina Steigelman

State E-Rate Coordinator, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Dr. Sabrina Steigelman serves as the State E-Rate Coordinator for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction's Office of Digital Teaching and Learning, where she supports school connectivity, digital learning initiatives and digital citizenship efforts across the state. A... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am EDT
Carolina Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning

11:00am EDT

Getting Started in Schoolnet

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT

Blandwood

Limited Capacity seats available

New to Schoolnet or ready to build your expertise? This hands-on session offers practical tips for creating assessments, checking for understanding, and making student learning visible. Bring your questions as we troubleshoot common challenges and share quick fixes for a smoother Schoolnet experience.

Speakers

Catherine Simone

Implementation Manager, Pearson

Rebecca Stokes

Instructional Improvement Consultant, NCDPI

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Blandwood Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning

11:00am EDT

Choosing Joy

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT

Biltmore AB

Limited Capacity seats available

Choosing Joy is an interactive and engaging professional development hosted by classroom teachers. This session is geared towards developing practical solutions to incorporating joy and fostering human relationships for the benefit of both teachers and students.

Speakers

Kylee Marshaachalk

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Biltmore AB Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

11:00am EDT

Student Success with Durable Skills

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom F

Limited Capacity seats available

The Skills for the Future Pilot success will provide resources and ideas to effectively implement durable skills.

Speakers

Kristine Barberio

Skills for the Future Project Coordinator, NCDPI

I am a 22 year educator who has primarily taught 4th - 6th grades ELA. I am certified in and have worked as an Administrator, Gifted Education, and with MLL Students. I have worked from NCDPI since 2021 with the Office of Virtual Instruction / Rethink Education Grant. Recently, I... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom F Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

11:00am EDT

From AI Pilots to School Operations

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom C

Limited Capacity seats available

AI is becoming part of daily school IT operations. This session explores practical strategies for scaling AI-powered workflows using tools like Google Workspace, Apps Script, and AI automation. Attendees will examine real-world examples including help desk support, ticket management, onboarding workflows & operational automation for K–12 IT teams.

Speakers

Didar Hayytov

IT Director, Triad Math and Science Academy

I am an education technology professional focused on AI-powered operational systems, workflow automation, and Google Workspace solutions for K–12 schools. My work centers on helping school technology teams improve efficiency, streamline IT operations, and responsibly scale AI within... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom C Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Advanced | Coaches & SLMC, Advanced | Leadership, Advanced | NCSIS, Advanced

11:00am EDT

Managing Up with the SIS

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT

Sandpiper

Limited Capacity seats available

Participants will collaboratively review key Infinite Campus functions, discuss common role confusion, and build a district-level flow chart that clearly defines responsibility and ownership. Attendees will leave with a shared framework to support consistency, accountability, and efficient system management.

Speakers

Tony Smith

Director of Educational Information Systems, Wayne County Public Schools

Tony started out as a third-grade teacher back in 2000, and started helping teachers and students use technology in the classroom. Over the years, he progressed through school and district-level positions, learning all facets of technology along the way. Now, in his third-year as... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm EDT
Sandpiper Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Intermediate | NCSIS, Intermediate | Coaches & SLMC, Intermediate | Leadership, Intermediate

12:00pm EDT

Cybersecurity is Everyone's Job

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 12:00pm - 12:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom B

Limited Capacity seats available

Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility. In this interactive session, participants will explore strategies for building a culture of digital trust and cyber resilience. Through real-world examples and collaboration, attendees will learn how educators, leaders, and technology teams can strengthen cybersecurity across their schools.

Speakers

Regina Smith

CTE- Cybersecurity/Computer Science Teacher, Kearns Academy-Guilford County Schools

Regina Smith, is a National Board Certified educator with over 10 years of experience teaching computer science and cybersecurity and more than 25 years of industry experience in business and information technology. She teaches at Kearns Academy of Computer and Information Sciences... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 12:00pm - 12:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom B Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning | NCSIS, Beginning

12:00pm EDT

Emotions and Urgency: How Cybercriminals Exploit Human Nature

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 12:00pm - 12:45pm EDT

Colony B

Limited Capacity seats available

With just a click, an entire network can be compromised. A single misstep—whether it's falling for a cleverly crafted phishing email, reusing passwords, or trusting the wrong request for information can open the door to cybercriminals. Why are people still downloading "urgent" invoice attachments from unknown senders? Why are they being targeted at home? And why are social engineering attacks so effective, even against trained professionals?

Human error remains one of the biggest threats to organizational and information security, and cybercriminals know exactly how to exploit it. From ransomware gangs using AI to personalize phishing attacks to business email compromise scams that trick even seasoned executives, the cybercrime industry is booming—and people are the preferred target. In this session, we’ll break down real-world examples of human risk gone wrong, discuss why training alone often fails, and reveal practical ways to protect yourself, your family, and your organization against cyberattacks and information theft.

In this session, you will learn:
• The psychology behind why we fall for cyber scams
• How cybercriminals exploit trust, urgency, and fear to manipulate our behavior
• Why reporting attacks is so important

Speakers

Eric Krohn

Tuesday September 29, 2026 12:00pm - 12:45pm EDT
Colony B Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators Coaches & SLMC Leadership NCSIS

1:00pm EDT

Campus Learning: Utilizing Quizzes

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Augusta AB

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will equip participants with the ability to utilize the quiz tool in Campus Learning. Creating quizzes, question banks, randomizing quizzes, and assigning with time-based settings will allow teachers to assess student understanding, and streamline the grading process all within NCSIS.

Speakers

Erin Wolfhope

Educator on Loan - NCSIS Educator Support, Burke County Public Schools

Erin is an experienced public school educator that strives to build connections through relationships in order to lead meaningful learning experiences. She's a wife, mom, and doctoral student. She's a curious introvert that loves to talk about books. Erin is an Educator on Loan to... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Augusta AB Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels

1:00pm EDT

AI for House Bill 805 Libraries

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Biltmore AB

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how generative AI can simplify classroom library inventory management. In this interactive session, educators will learn how to use AI-powered image recognition to identify books from classroom shelves, create organized inventory spreadsheets, and streamline documentation processes.

Speakers

Sid Lathan

DTL Coordinator, Harnett County Schools

Sid Lathan is an award-winning educator with over 30 years of service as a Mathematics teacher (grades 6–12), 6th-grade Science teacher, Instructional Technology Facilitator, Assistant Principal, and District Digital Teaching and Learning Coordinator. A two-time Teacher of the Year... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Biltmore AB Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels

1:00pm EDT

Safety on the World Wide Web

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Carolina

Limited Capacity seats available

Research shows that in today’s online world, there is a great need for digital citizenship training. The goal of this session is to inform educators of the importance of the NC laws regarding digital citizenship and training at all grade levels. We will evaluate available resources that educators can take back to their schools for use.

Speakers

Christina Overcash

Librarian, Thomasville High

Christina Overcash has worked in education for 24 years. She started as a Special Education teacher at the high school level. After working with students on a graduation project, she developed a love of teaching research and helping students be successful in classroom assignments... Read More →

Crystal White

School Library Media Specialist, Thomasville City Schools

Crystal White has been a NC educator over 20 years. She started as a classroom teacher and taught Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade before moving into the Library Media Center. The role of Library Media Coordinator has turned into a dream job where she gets to integrate... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Carolina Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels

1:00pm EDT

Better at the Basics: Cybersecurity for School and Home

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Colony C

Limited Capacity seats available

Trying to be safe online can be a very overwhelming and needlessly complicated process. Thankfully, you don't have to be a cybersecurity expert; you just have to get better at the basics! Join Amir Lawrence from the NCDPI K-12 Cybersecurity Program Team for a conversation about simple, approachable everyday habits that can help protect you, your students, and your family. We'll touch on best practices, free resources, and even break down a few real phishing examples. This is an interactive session, so bring your questions, curiosity, and that sketchy message you aren't sure about!

Speakers

Amir Lawrence

Cybersecurity Analyst, Friday Institute / North Carolina State University

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Colony C Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators Coaches & SLMC Leadership NCSIS

1:00pm EDT

AI and Information Security in education

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom B

Limited Capacity seats available

This interactive session will explore how educational institutions can benefit from ISO Information Security Management and ISO Artificial Intelligence Management standards. Participants will examine practical ways these frameworks can support data protection, responsible AI use, risk management, policy development, and institutional trust.

Speakers

Engin Ozturk

Engin Ozturk is a cybersecurity instructor and IT coordinator with 20+ years of international experience in teaching, training, and administration from KG to university level. Some major certifications he holds include Information Security Management, Artificial Intelligence Management... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom B Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels

1:00pm EDT

FERPA 101

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom E

Limited Capacity seats available

Presented by the U.S. Department of Education’s PTAC, the session will explain the fundamentals of FERPA, clarify responsibilities, and explore how the law applies in real-world educational settings. Participants will gain knowledge of student privacy requirements and practical guidance for recognizing and addressing FERPA-related situations.

Speakers

Brittani Fairchild

Ross Lemke

Director, Privacy Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), U.S. Department of Education

Ross Lemke serves as the manager for the Privacy Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) with over 10 years of experience providing TA around education data. He helps state and local education agencies, schools, districts and postsecondary institutions develop an understanding of FERPA... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom E Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels

1:00pm EDT

Excel-lent Efficiency

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom F

Limited Capacity seats available

What if your spreadsheets could do the work for you? Learn how to use PivotTables, conditional formatting, and other powerful spreadsheet tools to save time, reduce manual work, and quickly find insights. Walk away with practical strategies to organize data, highlight key information, and work more efficiently.

Speakers

Lauren Roberts

Digital Teaching and Learning Coach/Lead Media Coordinator, Iredell-Statesville Schools

I am a Digital Teaching and Learning Coach and Lead Media Coordinator with a library supervisor license. Previously, I taught middle school math and science and served as a Media Coordinator—experiences that shaped my passion for connecting curriculum with innovative technology... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom F Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Intermediate | Leadership, Intermediate | Coaches & SLMC, Intermediate | NCSIS, Intermediate

1:00pm EDT

Building an AI-Ready IT Program

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT

Blandwood

Limited Capacity seats available

This session moves past the AI hype to give you a practical framework: what infrastructure you actually need, how to start without a big budget, and how to teach WITH AI instead of worrying about students using it to cheat. You'll leave with a clear roadmap for your first 90 days, no matter your budget.

Speakers

Charles Perdue

Charles Perdue designs IT education systems. He has presented on program architecture, AI integration, and simulated workpace programs at state and national conferences. He builds open-source infrastructure for CTE classrooms and believes that great IT education shouldn't require... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
Blandwood Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning

1:00pm EDT

Sphero indi: Color, Code, Create for K-2

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom A

Limited Capacity seats available

Ready to spark curiosity and computational thinking in your youngest learners? Explore how Sphero indi transforms K–2 classrooms into creative spaces. Experience hands-on activities, discover cross-curricular lessons aligned to NC Computer Science and ISTE Standards, and leave with practical implementation and classroom management strategies.

Speakers

Kelley Gerstenmier

Instructional Technology Facilitator, Franklin County Schools

Kelley Gerstenmier is a dedicated and forward-thinking educator with more than 19 years of experience in public education, serving students and educators across all grade levels. As an Instructional Technology Facilitator, she partners with teachers to integrate technology in purposeful... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom A Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels

1:00pm EDT

AI Literacy For Educators

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom GH

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will help educators build a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence and why AI literacy matters for students K-12. Participants will explore how AI works at a basic level and how AI literacy can be embedded into existing instruction to strengthen critical thinking, questioning, source evaluation, and responsible technology use. The session will focus on practical, ready-to-use lessons and activities that can be adapted across subject areas, rather than on specific AI tools or student creation with AI. Participants will leave with classroom-ready resources and additional materials to support their continued learning.

Speakers

Sara Anderson

Digital Learning Coach, Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools

I am the digital learning coach for Ephesus and Scroggs Elementary Schools in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools district. Previously, I have taught middle grades science as well as been an elementary homeroom and STEAM teacher. This is my 16th year as an educator.

Tuesday September 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom GH Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels

2:00pm EDT

Learning STICS in the Library

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT

Biltmore AB

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how Learning STICS in the Library creates opportunities for all learners to connect, grow, and thrive. Learn how partnerships, community connections, and collaborations empower EC students and inspire future pathways. Take time tobrainstorm with fellow educators and leave with ready-to-use lessons, practical strategies, and fresh ideas.

Speakers

Susanne Mullis

Media Coordinator, Pitt County/D. H. Conley High School

Susanne Mullis is a dedicated educator with over 20 years of experience and is currently serving as a high school media coordinator. Passionate about providing all students with equitable access to literacy, STEAM, and technology, she champions impactful collaborations across schools... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Biltmore AB Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning

2:00pm EDT

AI Mystery Theater

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom F

Limited Capacity seats available

Step into the AI Mystery Theater to experience inquiry in action. Solve a classroom mystery, explore how AI supported its design, and learn to craft your own engaging, standards-based mysteries. Leave with templates, prompts, and strategies to make learning more curious, creative, and evidence-driven.

Speakers

Jennifer Graham

NC Regional Consultant, NCDPI

Jennifer Graham is the North Central Digital Teaching and Learning Consultant with NCDPI and she is a passionate advocate for engaging, learner-centered professional development. With 29 years of experience in a North Carolina school district, she has served as a teacher, instructional... Read More →

Paige Horton

Instr Support: Digital Learning Coach, Orange County Schools

Paige Horton is a leader in AI strategy, digital learning, and professional development with experience across K–12, higher education, and virtual learning environments. She specializes in designing engaging adult learning programs, coaching educators, leading organizational change... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom F Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

2:00pm EDT

Double Dare you to Engage, Not just Sage

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT

Arrowhead AB

Limited Capacity seats available

Do YOU have the guts? Then step up, suit up (metaphorically, of course... no poncho required), and get ready for a high-energy, no-tech, slime-free session where you’ll race through a series of brain-friendly, classroom-ready physical challenges designed to fire up adult learners just like students. Inspired by the wild world of Nickelodeon’s Double Dare, this session dares you to go beyond sit-and-get and experience professional learning and classroom learning that’s as memorable as a pie to the face (but with less clean-up). You won’t just talk about active learning; you’ll do it: toss, write, move, shout, reflect, and walk away with real strategies you can use in your building tomorrow morning. Each “challenge” is rooted in research-backed learning science. Whether you’re launching a Paper Airplane, Getting Slimed, Cootie Catcher- Catch Up, every move you make is a step closer to winning the final obstacle: PD and learning that actually sticks. You in? I Double Dare You.

Speakers

Lindsey Sipe

Southwest Regional Consultant, NC DPI

Lindsey Sipe brings over 18 years of expertise in digital teaching and learning, beginning her career as an elementary school teacher before moving into a leadership role at the district office for one of the largest urban school districts in the nation. Currently serving in the role... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Arrowhead AB Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels

2:00pm EDT

Introduction to Digital Accessibility

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT

Colony A

Limited Capacity seats available

Digital accessibility helps ensure that all learners, families, and educators can access and use digital content. This introductory session will help participants understand what digital accessibility is, why it matters, and how common barriers show up in everyday instructional materials and communications.

Speakers

Josh Barton

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Colony A Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

2:00pm EDT

Teaching with the Brain in Mind

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT

Meadowbrook

Limited Capacity seats available

This session explores how scaffolding technology tools can reduce stress, lower cognitive overload, and improve student engagement. Participants will experience brain-based strategies and classroom-ready examples for introducing digital tools in manageable stages that build confidence, accessibility, and deeper learning.

Speakers

Kalo Haslem

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools

I am an educational professional with extensive experience developing and implementing multidimensional lessons across a variety of content areas and digital tools. As an ISTE Certified EdTech Leader, I specialize in thoughtfully integrating technology into instruction to strengthen... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Meadowbrook Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

2:00pm EDT

Meet Claude Cowork: AI for Education

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom C

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover Claude Cowork... An AI desktop assistant that doesn't just answer questions, it gets things done. Through live demos and real audience participation, this session shows educators, coaches, tech staff, and administrators exactly how AI can save time and reduce repetitive tasks in their daily work.

Speakers

Kenneth Josef

Network Specialist, Cumberland County Schools

Kenneth Josef is a Network Specialist and Digital Learning Innovator with Cumberland County Schools, an Air Force veteran, and an advocate for the practical use of AI in K–12 education. A former fifth-grade teacher with a master’s degree in education, he combines classroom experience... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom C Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning | NCSIS, Beginning

3:00pm EDT

Content Connection with AI Music

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT

Meadowbrook

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how AI-powered music creation can boost engagement and content retention. Participants will explore Suno AI and Brisk through live demos and hands-on activities while creating standards-aligned songs that reinforce learning through rhythm, repetition, and creativity.

Speakers

Kalo Haslem

Instructional Tech Facilitator, Harnett County Schools

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Meadowbrook Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning

3:00pm EDT

Quick Tech Tools for Engagement

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT

Colony A

Limited Capacity seats available

In this hands-on session participants will experience a variety of engaging tech tools. Participants will use the tools first as students then as teachers, considering how they might work best in their content/grade areas.

Speakers

Jason Lineberger

Senior Digital Learning Specialist, The North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching

Jason Lineberger is a professional educator with 33 years of classroom experience. He has taught all levels of English/ELA from 8-12 as well as college writing and literature courses. Jason started Cleveland County Schools' Virtual Academy in 2015 and with the help of colleagues launched... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Colony A Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning

3:00pm EDT

Architecting Engagement with Gemini

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom E

Limited Capacity seats available

How can we use AI to make our classrooms more human centered? In this interactive workshop, explore how to utilize Gemini as a quick curriculum engine to tackle NC’s largest standard gaps. Instead of using AI to replace student thinking use it to grow soft skills and rigor. Bring your device for this prompt engineering lab.

Speakers

Heather Graves

Technology Teacher

Heather Graves is an innovative educator and CTE Teacher of the Year for Scotland High School who bridges the gap between industry design and classroom execution. Drawing from previous experience in architecture and a versatile teaching portfolio—including high school English, mathematics... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom E Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels

3:00pm EDT

From Devices to Direction

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT

Arrowhead AB

Limited Capacity seats available

Learn how Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools developed a community-informed Digital Learning Plan focused on intentional technology use, instruction, digital safety, equity, and student well-being. Participants will explore lessons learned and practical strategies for leading similar planning work in their own districts.

Speakers

Al McArthur

Director of Digital Learning and Libraries, Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools

Al McArthur is the Director of Digital Learning and Libraries for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools. In this role, he supports digital learning, school libraries, instructional technology, digital resource vetting, and professional learning across the district. His work focuses on... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Arrowhead AB Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Advanced | Leadership, Advanced | Coaches & SLMC, Advanced

3:00pm EDT

The Science of Screen Use

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT

Carolina

Limited Capacity seats available

What does research actually tell us about screens, devices, and student learning? This session separates headlines from evidence by examining current studies on screen use, attention, academic outcomes, mental health, and digital habits.

Speakers

Ashley McBride

Digital Learning Initiative Consultant, NCDPI

Dr. Ashley McBride is the Digital Learning Initiative Section Chief for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Her role is to support PSUs and schools with their understanding and implementation of the North Carolina Digital Learning Plan. You can reach out to Ashley... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 3:45pm EDT
Carolina Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning

3:00pm EDT

Accessibility for ALL!

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom A

Limited Capacity seats available

Join this hands-on workshop to eliminate digital barriers and meet WCAG 2.1/2.2 AA mandates using UDL principles. Experience screen-reader simulations, engage in peer reviews, and use live Canvas and Adobe Express sandboxes. Master the "7 Pillars of Digital Design" to remediate your documents and confidently audit content before deadlines.

Speakers

Lisa Guzman

Digital Teaching & Learning Supervisor, Public Schools of Robeson County

Lisa Guzman leads the Digital Learning & Instructional Systems (DL&IS) department for the Public Schools of Robeson County, serving as the strategic bridge between academic curriculum and district technology across grades K-13. With a deep commitment to modernizing the educational... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom A Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels

3:00pm EDT

ML/Title III Framework: Aligning Systems

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom F

Limited Capacity seats available

Supporting multilingual learners requires more than effective programs—it requires aligned systems. In this session, participants will explore how Title III requirements can be integrated with local multilingual learner (ML) programs to create cohesive, sustainable systems that improve student outcomes.

Speakers

Susan Walz

Education Consultant, Department of Public Instruction

I am Michigan-born and raised, but for the past 20 years, North Carolina has been home. When I first moved to North Carolina, I was waiting for my Clinical Mental Health Counselor license and took a part-time position working with ESL students. I quickly discovered a passion for supporting... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom F Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels | NCSIS, All Levels

4:00pm EDT

Vibe Coding: Opportunity and Risk

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom C

Limited Capacity seats available

Vibe coding is rapidly changing how applications are developed, empowering teachers and students to instantly build custom applications. But what happens to student data privacy and district cybersecurity when anyone can generate and deploy software?

Speakers

John Bray

Director of Instructional Technology, Discovery Charter School

John Bray has taught science for grades 6-12, and engineering for grades 6-10. He is currently the Director of Instructional Technology, the SIS Coordinator, and the Testing Coordinator for Discovery Charter School in Bahama, NC.

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom C Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Intermediate | Coaches & SLMC, Intermediate

4:00pm EDT

Bridging Languages, Building Futures

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT

Carolina

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover practical, high-impact strategies to support multilingual learners and create classrooms where every student’s language and culture are valued as strengths. In this interactive session, participants will explore research-based approaches that promote language development, academic success, and student confidence.

Speakers

Jonathan Lancho Villa

Multilingual Learners Specialist, Surry County Schools

Jonathan Lancho Villa is a multilingual educator at Pilot Mountain Elementary and Mountain Park Elementary in Surry County Schools. Originally from Spain, Jonathan is passionate about equipping multilingual learners with the language, confidence, and academic skills they need to thrive... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Carolina Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

4:00pm EDT

Read to Rise: A Reading Challenge

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT

Colony A

Limited Capacity seats available

Research shows that time spent reading increases student reading growth. This session shares information about planning, implementing, and evaluating a reading challenge to support Mo Green’s Achieving Educational Excellence plan. Participants will leave with a plan for implementing their own reading challenge at their school or district level.

Speakers

Christina Overcash

Librarian, Thomasville High

Crystal White

School Library Media Specialist, Thomasville City Schools

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Colony A Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels

4:00pm EDT

Student Innovation with Design Thinking

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT

Blandwood

Limited Capacity seats available

Explore how Design Thinking transforms learning through authentic, Shark Tank–style challenges. Participants will learn practical strategies to guide students through Empathize, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test while fostering creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation across grade levels and content areas.

Speakers

Ashley Agner

Instructional Technology Facilitator, Rowan-Salisbury Schools

Ashley Agner has spent the last 14 years figuring out what makes a classroom truly come alive. Currently serving as the Elementary District Technology Facilitator for Rowan-Salisbury Schools, she’s dedicated the last five years to technology integration that actually works for kids... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Blandwood Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

4:00pm EDT

Aligned by Design: AI-Powered Units

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom GH

Limited Capacity seats available

Explore an AI-powered tool that helps build lessons and units aligned to state standards, Portrait of a Graduate competencies, and UDL accommodations. Whether starting from scratch or refining existing work, K–8 educators will leave with a completed, ready-to-use unit. Because the best lessons aren't generated, they're Aligned by Design.

Speakers

Heather Gerbus

Media Coordinator, East Forsyth Middle School

Working in education since 1999, Heather Gerbus brings a wealth of experience to every learning community she serves. Her career spans 19.5 years as a classroom teacher, time in student services under a federal grant, work as an instructional technology facilitator, and, currently... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom GH Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning

4:00pm EDT

FERPA 201

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT

Imperial Ballroom E

Limited Capacity seats available

This interactive session challenges participants to apply their FERPA knowledge to real-world student privacy scenarios. Through audience discussion and Q&A, PTAC will explore complex FERPA issues, clarify common questions, and highlight how context shapes privacy decisions.

Speakers

Brittani Fairchild

Ross Lemke

Director, Privacy Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), U.S. Department of Education

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Imperial Ballroom E Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, All Levels | Leadership, All Levels | Coaches & SLMC, All Levels

4:00pm EDT

Privacy in the Age of AI

LIMITED

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT

Meadowbrook

Limited Capacity seats available

Privacy is still possible in an AI-driven world. This session explores how personal information is collected, shared, and used by data brokers and AI-powered technologies. Participants will learn practical strategies to protect privacy, reduce digital footprints, and strengthen student privacy and digital citizenship in schools.

Speakers

DIANE DULANEY

Privacy Specialist, NCDPI

Diane Dulaney is the Privacy Specialist at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and leads the agency’s efforts to safeguard student and staff data. She brings over a decade of experience in shaping privacy policy, ensuring compliance with FERPA, PPRA, and COPPA, and... Read More →

Tuesday September 29, 2026 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Meadowbrook Koury Convention Center 3121 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27407

Educators, Beginning | NCSIS, Beginning | Coaches & SLMC, Beginning | Leadership, Beginning

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

10:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

12:00pm EDT

12:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

1:00pm EDT

2:00pm EDT

2:00pm EDT

2:00pm EDT

2:00pm EDT

2:00pm EDT

2:00pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

4:00pm EDT

4:00pm EDT

4:00pm EDT

4:00pm EDT

4:00pm EDT

4:00pm EDT

4:00pm EDT

Get help with the event