Back-to-School ConnectED Conference 2026: Full Schedule

9:30am EDT

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

Limited Capacity seats available

Participants will learn how to navigate PebbleGo and how this resource can be beneficial in the classroom for all readers, regardless of his/her reading level. They will also learn how to access the many resources that are available through the app/website, and how these resources can enhance lessons with all learners.

Speakers

Brenda Perry

Elementary Librarian, Cedar Grove Elementary School

With over 14 years experience as a classroom teacher and elementary librarian, I am passionate about helping students discover the joy of reading. As a librarian, I am dedicated to connecting learners with books that build confidence in reading and encouraging them to become lifelong... Read More →

Jodi Cowart

Middle School Librarian, Powdersville Middle School

With over 25 years in public education at the elementary and middle school levels serving as a fourth grade classroom teacher, teacher of Gifted & Talented, a Reading Coach and a librarian, my heart lies in connecting teachers and students to excellent books and resources that support... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 9:30am - 10:15am EDT
415

Elementary (EC/ES)

Audience Early Childhood, Elementary, Related Arts

10:30am EDT

What to Expect When Calling DSS

LIMITED

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

415

Limited Capacity seats available

This session will go over the different instances that could lead to the need for a DSS report. We will also go over what to expect when making the report and the potential outcomes.

Speakers

Miranda Roberts

School Counselor, Palmetto Elementary School

Miranda Roberts is a dedicated school counselor at Palmetto Elementary School who is passionate about advocating for every child's success and well-being. She works closely with students, families, and staff to create a supportive and inclusive school environment where all children... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 10:30am - 11:15am EDT
415

General Audience

Audience General Audience

12:45pm EDT

Running on Empty: Burnout Prevention Toolkit for Educators

LIMITED

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

415

Limited Capacity seats available

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Define burnout and understand how it differs from everyday stress and fatigue.
Explain why educators are particularly vulnerable to burnout.
Recognize the early warning signs of burnout in themselves and others.
Apply practical strategies to build resilience and prevent "running on empty."

Speakers

John Barnett

John Barnett has been a teacher for 11 years, spent 30 years in church ministry and
has been a licensed marriage and family therapist for the last 5. He has been married
for 46 years to his wife Teresa and has two grown children, John and Tiffany, who are
graduates of the Wren sc... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 12:45pm - 1:30pm EDT
415

General Audience