Back-to-School ConnectED Conference 2026: Full Schedule

9:30am EDT

Canva Classroom: A Beginner's Guide to Using Canva for Teachers

Friday July 31, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am EDT

Limited Capacity seats available

The design space we all love, but not sure how to utilize with only a little time. Canva Classroom will be a dive into Canva for beginners as well as those wanting to know more!

Speakers

Danielle Harrelson

Second Grade Teacher, Wren Elementary School

My name is Dani Harrelson, I am a second grade teacher at Wren Elementary. I am a proud mom of my 9 year old chocolate lab and a lover of Chicago hot dogs! I am so excited to help you create things you can use in your classroom!

Friday July 31, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am EDT
407

General Audience

Audience General Audience

10:30am EDT

Tier 2 by Design: Using Data to Group with Purpose

LIMITED

Friday July 31, 2026 10:30am - 11:15am EDT

407

Limited Capacity seats available

This professional development session will help teachers use student data intentionally to create effective instructional groups that target specific learning needs. Participants will explore how to group and regroup students by essential standards, allowing for more focused instruction, flexible support, and responsive teaching that drives student growth.

Speakers

Candice Garrison

Literacy Coach, Concrete Elementary School

Candice Garrison is the Literacy Coach at Concrete Primary and has served in this role for 4 years. Prior to becoming the Literacy Coach, Candice taugh Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade. Candice has a passion for helping students learn to read and close gaps! She specializes in helping... Read More →

Nicole McGaha

Literacy Coach, Oak Hill Elementary School

Nicole McGaha is a veteran educator who truly "gets" the classroom. With over 18 years of experience under her belt, she spent over a decade teaching before stepping into her current role as the Literacy Coach at Powdersville Elementary. For the last five years, Nicole has focused... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 10:30am - 11:15am EDT
407

Elementary (EC/ES)

Audience Elementary

12:45pm EDT

From Welcome to Wow: You Always Win with People!

LIMITED

Friday July 31, 2026 12:45pm - 1:30pm EDT

407

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will provide practical strategies and best practices for creating a successful and meaningful experience for student teachers and college practicum students. Participants will learn how to build strong relationships, provide effective support and feedback, and create a classroom environment where future educators can grow and thrive. Together, we will explore how mentoring the next generation of teachers strengthens both our profession and our schools.

Speakers

Carol Brooks

Induction Coordinator, District Office

I currently serve as the Induction Coordinator and a recruiter for Anderson School District One, where I have the privilege of supporting and growing the next generation of educators. I firmly believe that students deserve teachers who love what they do and bring genuine passion into... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 12:45pm - 1:30pm EDT
407

General Audience