Program Archive
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BOISE CENTRE ON THE GROVE, BOISE, ID MAP of THE GROVE
To register for credit through NNU visit this link EDLD53791 IASA Summer Conference 2026
IASA is proud to partner with Pictures with Class for our award and candid photography services. Contact Scott at 541-429-0468 if you would like more information about their services for your school.
Fall 2026
IASA Summer Conference 2026 (Subject to change)
Monday, August 3, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am
OPENING KEYNOTE SESSION: MAKE IT MATTER -Unlocking Human Potential Through the Mattering Mindset
Grandballroom (100)
Sponsored by: BCI Foundation & SDE
Today’s school leaders are navigating unprecedented complexity while working to preserve
strong cultures, community trust, and meaningful outcomes for every learner. Within the
complexity, one truth remains constant: people thrive when they know they matter.
Matthew Emerzian’s inspiring and heartfelt keynote invites school, district, and community
leaders to explore the foundational force of “mattering” for everything in life and at work.
Beyond the Screen: How ClassLink Helps Leaders Audit Usage, Protect Student Data, and Consolidate Digital Tools
Location: 410 C
Anu Jokinen
ClassLink
School leaders face growing challenges managing screen time, protecting student data, and controlling technology costs. Discover how Idaho superintendents and principals are using ClassLink’s unified platform to simplify digital access, strengthen cybersecurity, eliminate redundant tools, and ensure technology supports learning efficiently and responsibly.
Building Idaho's Healthcare Workforce: Leveraging CTE Pathways and Grant Funding for Impact
Location: 440
Jackie Yarbrough
Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation of Health
Brian Smith
Moscow School District
Idaho’s healthcare workforce shortage creates new opportunities for schools to prepare future professionals. Learn how Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health grants can support Health Professions CTE programs, explore successful models and partnerships, and gain practical strategies to expand sustainable pathways, especially in rural communities.
Building Sustainable RTI Systems for Academics and Behavior
Location: 430 A
Anna Pack
Cloverdale Elementary School
Kati Pyper
Cloverdale Elementary School
Schools are often expected to implement effective academic and behavior RTI processes without the time or systems needed to keep everything organized and moving forward. This session highlights a comprehensive RTI framework designed to streamline collaboration, improve organization, and support more timely, data-informed decisions for students.
CREATING A SPACE THAT MATTERS: Leading Cultures Where Everyone Belongs, Learns, and Thrives
Location: 100 Ballroom
Jocelyn Guansing
Every Monday Matters
**Jocelyn Guansing** is the Director of Education for Every Monday Matters and brings more than 25 years of experience in education, counseling, leadership, and program development. She has partnered with schools and districts across diverse communities to strengthen school culture, student well-being, educator wellness, and social and emotional learning. Her background includes classroom teaching, crisis response, suicide prevention program development, and designing meaningful practices that help students and educators feel connected, supported, and valued. Today, Jocelyn leads the development of Every Monday Matters' TK–12 curriculum, programming, professional learning, and implementation strategies, equipping school leaders with practical, research-informed approaches that foster belonging, purpose, and resilient learning communities where every individual understands how much and why they matter.
Creating schools where every student feels safe, connected, and valued begins with a culture of mattering. Explore EMM's Mattering Mindset™ and leave with practical strategies to strengthen belonging, build meaningful relationships, and create learning environments where students and educators thrive.
Creating Connected Schools Through the Idaho Career Readiness Competencies
Location: 430 B
Jacque Deahl
Idaho State Department of Education
Jacque Deahl serves as the Statewide Coordinator of GEAR UP Idaho and works within the Idaho Department of Education’s college and career readiness initiatives. Her work focuses on future readiness, career-connected learning, student engagement, professional development, and systems that help schools create stronger connections between academics, career pathways, and real-world skill development.
Jacque has led statewide work related to the Idaho Career Readiness Competencies, helping develop tools, resources, and implementation strategies designed to support educators, counselors, administrators, and workforce partners. She regularly facilitates statewide trainings and conferences focused on school culture, future readiness, experiential learning, work-based learning, and helping students build the durable skills needed for success in school, career, and life.
Explore how the newly updated Idaho Career Readiness Competencies, now positioned as a K–Career framework, can strengthen school culture, student engagement, future readiness, and workforce partnerships through shared language across academics, counseling, extracurricular programs, and community partners.
From Policy to Practice: Bringing Idaho's AI and Digital Literacy Priorities into Elementary Classrooms
Location: 120 A
Marisa Alan
Inquisitive
Marisa Alan serves as the Idaho Curriculum and Success Lead at Inquisitive, where she partners with elementary schools to bring high-quality, phenomena-based science instruction into classrooms. With more than 25 years of experience in education, including roles as a classroom teacher and School Success Specialist, Marisa brings both practical insight and a deep understanding of the challenges educators and administrators face.
She leads curriculum implementation across Idaho while working directly with teachers and school leaders to support effective, engaging science instruction. Marisa is passionate about helping schools integrate meaningful, hands-on science into busy schedules in ways that are inclusive, manageable, and impactful for all students.
For many leaders, the question is not whether AI and digital literacy matter, but how to implement them in ways that are practical and meaningful for both teachers and students. This session explores strategies for moving from policy to practice through classroom-ready instruction that supports district goals.
Hidden Facility Risks Every School District Should Be Planning For (Before the Next Storm)
Location: 110 C/D
Brandon Rakestraw
Coryell Roofing and Construction
Chris Coryell is the co-founder and CEO of Coryell Roofing & Construction, a commercial roofing company he built alongside his wife and CFO, Theresa Coryell, from the ground up in 2011. Named Roofing Contractor magazine's 2024 Commercial Contractor of the Year, his company has grown into a multi-state contractor serving clients across ten states, with a primary focus on K-12 schools, higher education, healthcare, and public facilities. Chris brings a ground-level understanding of the facility challenges that school districts face such as aging infrastructure, deferred maintenance cycles, compliance gaps, and the financial exposure that often goes unrecognized until it's urgent. His team works directly with district leaders on long-term facility planning, and he regularly speaks to the intersection of roofing systems, insurance standards, and operational risk. Coryell Roofing holds Duro-Last Platinum contractor status and maintains a safety record 32% better than the industry average.
School districts across the central United States face growing facility risks from severe weather, aging infrastructure, and misunderstood insurance coverage. This session explores overlooked challenges, including deferred maintenance costs, warranty compliance gaps, and insurance exposures, providing practical insights to help leaders assess risk, understand facility conditions and make informed decisions.
Idaho School District Council (ISDC) Board Meeting
Location: 200
Dale Layne
Idaho School District Council
ISDC meets quarterly to review and conduct organizational business.
IHSAA Hot Topics: Idaho High School Activities Association
Location: 130
Chad Williams
Idaho High School Activities Association
Chad Williams graduated from West Jefferson High School, a small school similar to many across Idaho, and from Idaho State University. He began his career in education in 1997 and has served in various roles, including teacher, coach, activities director, vice principal, principal, and superintendent. His experience spans schools from the 2A to 5A classification levels. Chad has had the opportunity to experience Idaho High School Activities Association activities from many perspectives: as a student-athlete, coach, administrator, parent, uncle, and looks forward to experiencing it as a grandparent. Before becoming the IHSAA Executive Director in July 2024, he was the superintendent at Shelley School District. Chad is a proud father of four girls.
Chad Williams, Executive Director of the Idaho High School Activities Association, will present to Idaho school administrators on classification, representation, playoff formats, transfer rules, and girls' wrestling expansion.
Leading Beyond the Building: Expanding Your Influence, Strengthening Your Impact
Location: 120 B
Melissa Patschke
Dr. Melissa D. Patschke (Missie) has served as an educator for 38 years. She believes in the power of whole child education and in the lasting impact of using relationship science in schools. Missie currently works for the National Association of Elementary School Principals, which is the only pre-K - 8 national organization that is designed specifically to support elementary and middle level school leaders. Prior to her work at NAESP, Missie served as a school principal for 27 years at the middle and elementary levels. Missie's career has been focused on multiple platforms including effective leadership practices, special education, student voice, educator resiliency, and positive school cultures.
Great schools are built by leaders who know how to make connections, inspire trust, and create a sense of purpose! Join us to explore the power of leading beyond the building. Discover ways to strengthen voice, expand influence, and bring new energy back to your school community.
Navigating Idaho Assessments: Updates, Insights, and Answers
Location: 120 C
Kacy Proctor
Idaho Department of Education
Kacy is an experienced education leader who serves as the project and contract manager for the Idaho Reading Indicator (IRI), overseeing its statewide administration. She leads strategic efforts to strengthen communication, deepen stakeholder understanding, and improve perceptions of the state's early literacy assessment system. Kacy also develops and supports training and guidance to ensure appropriate interpretation and use of IRI data in instructional and programmatic decision-making, while continuously evaluating policies and practices to better support early readers.
She brings 25 years of experience in Idaho public schools, teaching kindergarten through third grade. Her background includes roles as a second grade teacher, kindergarten intervention director, and Title I teacher, where she led reading and math intervention programs.
Amber Van Vooren
Idaho Department of Education
Amber is an educator and assessment specialist who serves in a newly established role focused on building sustainable systems that support effective assessment and instruction. She supports educators in the use of ISAT interim assessments and instructional resources, and provides training on best practices in balanced assessment systems to help schools use data intentionally to improve teaching and learning. Amber also develops and curates guidance and tools related to assessment systems and represents the Assessment and Accountability team on the Idaho Department of Education's MTSS committee.
She brings extensive experience in mathematics education, having worked as a classroom teacher, a Regional Math Specialist through Boise State University, and a district-level Elementary Math Instructional Coach and Specialist.
Austin Ambrose
Idaho Department of Education
Austin serves as the project and contract manager for the ISAT, overseeing the statewide implementation of systems and administration of the assessment. He leads strategic efforts to strengthen communication, improve stakeholder understanding, and build confidence in the state's summative assessment system. Austin also develops and supports training and guidance to promote responsible interpretation and use of ISAT results in educational decision-making, while continuously evaluating policies, practices, and data use to inform system improvements.
He brings experience across multiple leadership roles in Idaho charter schools, including serving as an elementary teacher, dean of students, and elementary director.
The Assessment and Accountability team at the Idaho Department of Education is committed to supporting the development of data- and assessment-literate leaders who can strategically make data-driven decisions. This session will provide key assessment updates, address frequently asked ISAT and IRI questions, and offer important clarifications.
SB 1339 Strategic Performance Plans: Requirements, Resources, and Results
Location: 110 A/B
Heather Williams
IASA & IRSA
Alica Holthaus
Idaho Department of Education
Spencer Barzee
Idaho Department of Education
Idaho's new Strategic Performance Plan requirements represent an important opportunity for districts to strengthen student outcomes and local governance. Join leaders from the Idaho Department of Education and IASA to learn about implementation expectations, available supports, and practical strategies for developing plans that drive meaningful results.
IAESP Business Luncheon - Sponsored by HMH
Location: 400 C
Ben Parker
Idaho Association of Elementary Principals
IASEA Business Luncheon Sponsored by Presence Learning
Location: 410 A/B
Peggy Flerchinger
Idaho Association of Special Education Administrators
IASSP Business Luncheon Sponsored by AJH Law
Location: 400 A/B
Brian Jadwin
Idaho Association of Secondary Principals
ISSA Business Luncheon - Sponsored by Piper Sandler & Hawley Troxell Law
Location: 420 A/B
Jon Rehder
Idaho School Superintendents Association
How Leaders Handle the Conversations That Derail Schools
Location: 430 B
Heather Haygood
HMH Solutions
Heather Haygood is the founder of HMH Solutions, a leadership development firm built on two simple beliefs: Emotional intelligence unlocks leadership potential, and leadership development only matters when it shows up in real work, real moments, and real change.
Drawing on 15 years of experience across executive leadership, coaching, and leadership development, she helps leaders build the emotional intelligence, practical skills, and change readiness needed to perform under pressure and lead through change.
As a former Dean and a current instructor at Boise State University, Heather brings both a practitioner's and educator's perspective to her work. She is known for blending strategic insight with a deeply human approach to leadership development.
She is the creator of Confident Conversations, a six-week course for leaders who are done winging the conversations that matter. She also created the EQ Mastery Cycle, the Human-Centered Leadership System, and the ALIGN Change Leadership System, proprietary frameworks designed to close the gap between leadership insight and real-world performance.
Every conversation you avoid or mishandle sends a signal. It becomes the lens your staff uses to see you, and the culture your students live in. This session gives school leaders practical, emotionally intelligent-based frameworks for navigating the conversations that derail schools before the effects ripple into the classroom.
How to Be Unbroken: Embracing Adversity to Lead Strong Schools
Location: 120 C
Michael Anthony "Unbroken"
www.MichaelUnbroken.com
Michael Anthony, known professionally as Michael Unbroken, is an award-winning keynote speaker, best-selling author, and podcast host who helps high-performing leaders embrace adversity to forge resilience in business and life. As the founder of Think Unbroken and Mission Driven Coaches, he has spent nearly a decade working with entrepreneurs, executives, and leadership teams to translate personal adversity into strategic advantage, strengthening performance, culture, and results.
From a childhood marked by abuse, poverty, and homelessness to building multiple seven-figure companies and generating tens of millions in sales, Michael’s lived experience is the foundation of his credibility, not a bid for sympathy. His top-ranked Think Unbroken Podcast has reached millions of listeners across more than 100 countries, where he interviews leaders and experts on resilience, leadership under pressure, and sustained performance. On stage, Michael is a calm, direct, outcome-driven presence, blending powerful storytelling with clear frameworks like The Unbroken Method to help leaders navigate uncertainty, make better decisions under pressure, and build teams that can thrive through adversity
In this session, Michael Unbroken shares his journey from severe childhood abuse, homelessness at twelve, and involvement with the juvenile justice system to becoming a best-selling author and founder of Think Unbroken, a trauma-informed education platform
Idaho Youth Challenge Academy: Reclaim, Reset, Return
Location: 120 A
JAMES J. HILL
IDAHO YOUTH CHALLENGE ACADEMY
Jim Hill has served as Principal of the Idaho Youth ChalleNGe Academy (IDYCA) since Fall 2023. Joining the Academy in 2018 as a Careers Teacher, Jim developed a deep passion for reclaiming at-risk youth through real-life readiness and second chances. His leadership is defined by a holistic, team-centered approach, emphasizing radical collaboration between academic, cadre, and support departments. By uniting all facets of the program, IDYCA ensures every cadet receives the comprehensive structure needed to return to their home districts with the values, life skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to succeed as responsible and productive citizens of Idaho.
Educating administrators on our one-semester "reset": we don't recruit; we return disciplined, credit-recovered students. Join our leadership team to discuss our start-to-finish process and future plans for state-level at-risk identification and CTE pathways, ensuring your students have a second chance to succeed.
Idaho's AI for Education Initiatives
Location: 110 A/B
Katie Bosch-Wilson
Idaho Department of Education
Katie Bosch-Wilson, currently the Computer Science and Secondary Mathematics Coordinator, Idaho Department of Education, has 13 years of public education experience, ranging from classroom teaching to district leadership. Katie holds master’s degrees in mathematics education and Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Computer Science.
Participants will gain a comprehensive overview of the state's evolving AI landscape, including newly passed 2026 legislation, compliance requirements, and the Department's statewide framework. Katie Bosch-Wilson will highlight professional development opportunities and available resources, with dedicated time for questions and practical discussion on real-world implementation.
Introducing Special Ed Connection
Location: 410A/B
Kelly Whiting
LRP
Discover how Idaho's statewide access to Special Ed Connection can strengthen special education services in your district. Learn how this comprehensive resource provides legally sound guidance, practical tools, staff training materials, and expert support to help educators confidently serve students with disabilities every day.
Leading with Purpose & Compassion: Supporting School Teams Through the Challenges of Dispute Resolution and Conflict
Location: 130
Kindel Mason
BlazerWorks
Kindel served as Director of Support Services for 18 years, leading special education programs across multiple settings. He previously worked as a Special Education Consultant for the Idaho State Department of Education, supporting districts in implementing effective practices and ensuring compliance. He began his 33-year career as an elementary special education teacher. He later taught at the middle school level, bringing practical, student-centered experience to his work and a strong commitment to inclusive practices. An active member of CASE and CEC, Kindel has held numerous leadership roles, including serving as President of both IASEA and National CASE, where he advocated for effective special education policy and practice.
Ramona Lee
Retired
Ramona Lee recently retired from her position as Director of Special Services and 504 Compliance Officer for West Ada School District where she oversaw special education services for a district of approximately 40,000 students. With more than 30 years of experience in special education across both rural and large Idaho school districts, Ramona has developed deep expertise in program development, leadership, and supporting educators to meet diverse student needs.
Ramona holds a B.S. in Secondary Education and Special Education from the University of Idaho, along with teaching endorsements in Mathematics, French, and Special Education. She earned her M.Ed. in Special Education with an emphasis in Low-Incidence Disabilities, and has completed specialized coursework in Special Education Administration, Vision Impairments, and Gifted and Talented Education.
Throughout her career, Ramona has served as a special education teacher, director, and district-level administrator, bringing hands-on classroom experience to her leadership role. She is deeply passionate about supporting educators to meet diverse and unique student needs through Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and recognizes the critical role that assistive technology plays in removing barriers to learning for all students.
Ramona is an active leader in the special education community, serving as Chair of the Professional Development Committee for the Council for Administrators of Special Education (CASE) and representing special education directors on the Idaho Professional Standards Commission. She was recently honored with the 2025 Outstanding Special Education Administrator Award from IASEA and has received multiple Educator of the Year awards throughout her career. Ramona is a member of ASCD, CEC, and CASE, and regularly teaches graduate-level courses for universities across Idaho.
This session prepares principals and assistant principals to lead through special education dispute resolution and conflict. Participants will learn strategies to support staff, communicate with families, manage emotions, and uphold legal responsibilities. Emphasis is placed on psychological safety, collaboration, and student-centered decision-making, maintaining trust, relationships, and team resilience.
Preparing and Monitoring Written Employee Improvement Plans
Location: 110 C/D
BARBARA GINSBERG
Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Barbara Ginsberg has been representing school and community college districts, and public agencies in all aspects of employment & labor matters and education law for over thirty years. She is an expert in educational leadership, communication practices, and employee performance management, and regularly provides professional development training to administrators and aspiring leaders throughout the nation. She serves as chief negotiator for agencies in collective bargaining with certificated/certified, classified, and police/safety units, and is experienced in both traditional and interest-based bargaining methods. Other areas of her practice include: workplace investigations (including allegations of harassment and discrimination), statutory and negotiated leave issues, disability accommodation issues, reductions in force, student and employee privacy matters, search and seizure and other constitutional issues, policy/procedure review and development, hiring practices, employment contracts, administrative hearings, and federal and state civil litigation. Her firm also provides legal advice and representation on special education matters, facilities and construction matters, student discipline, and other areas of interest to school districts.
Prior to representing school districts, Ms. Ginsberg spent seven years as a legal advocate for public and private employee unions and served as a Deputy City Attorney. Prior to her legal career she was an elementary/middle/high school teacher and also served in the U.S. Navy. Her husband's and Navy veteran son's careers have brought her to Idaho, where she is a licensed attorney, and she looks forward to assisting school district leaders in creating rewarding work and educational environments for employees and students.
An effective Improvement Plan is akin to giving a substandard-performing employee a roadmap to future success. Learn key elements that every improvement plan should contain, tips for monitoring the employee's improvement and a preferred format for a written document to issue at the conclusion of the improvement period.
Same Students, Same Teachers, Better Results: Using Data and Relationships to Improve Outcomes
Location: 120 B
Josh Omang
BARR Center
Josh Omang joined the BARR Center team after 22 years in public education, bringing experience as a teacher, dean of students, football coach, academy coordinator, and high school principal. His perspective as a first-generation descendant of the White Earth Nation has deeply shaped his commitment to building strong relationships and ensuring every student feels known, valued, and supported. As a BARR Principal at Detroit Lakes High School in Detroit Lakes, MN, Josh saw firsthand the model's impact on strengthening school communities and improving outcomes for all students, reinforcing his belief in its power to support meaningful change.
Dave Webster
Taylorview Middle School
How can Idaho schools create systems where students and teachers feel known, supported, and on a path for success? Join Taylorview Middle School Principal Dave Webster and BARR Center Associate Director of Engagement Josh Omang as they discuss Taylorview's outcomes since implementing the Building Assets, Reducing Risks (BARR) model.
Strengthening Families and Communities through Parent Cafes
Location: 440
David Sotutu
Snake River School District #52
Dr. Sotutu currently serves as the principal of Moreland Elementary School, the preschool-1st grade school for the Snake River School District. He has also served as a reading specialist, teacher, coach, federal programs director, principal, special education director, and superintendent in Washington and Idaho over the past 22 years. His professional focus centers on supporting families, schools, and communities to ensure early educational experiences prepare children for future success.
Amanda Mills
IdahoAEYC
Amanda has worked in early childhood education here in the Treasure Valley for over 20 years. She brings with her the knowledge of being an early childhood professional and program director as well as working for nearly a decade on the IdahoSTARS project.
Amanda is the Strengthening Families Specialist at IdahoAEYC and works with early childhood professionals, families and family-serving organizations to integrate the Strengthening Families Framework and the Building Blocks of HOPE into practice. Strengths-based supports decrease stress in families, leading to better outcomes for children. She believes that families are more likely to thrive when their basic needs are met and focuses on those furthest from opportunity.
Amanda is a mother, wife, dog mom and competitive weightlifter. She loves the Idaho outdoors, cooking and going to concerts.
Adrian Amo
Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children
Adrian serves as the Director of Family and Community Engagement at Idaho AEYC. In this role, she oversees statewide initiatives that strengthen parent and community involvement in early learning, including the You’ve Got This! parent empowerment campaign and the highly regarded READY! for Kindergarten program.
A passionate advocate for families, Adrian believes every parent is their child’s first and most important teacher. She is committed to ensuring that all parents feel empowered with the tools, confidence, and knowledge they need to help their children thrive—laying the foundation for success in school and in life.
Adrian holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from Western Oregon University.
This interactive workshop provides Idaho school leaders with both a practical understanding and a firsthand experience of the Parent Café model, equipping them with a proven approach to building stronger partnerships with families and communities.
The Leadership Mirror: Building Self-Aware Teams That Perform Under Pressure
Location: 430 A
Jane Monore
Embrace the Grape, LLC
Jane Monroe is an entrepreneur, leadership thinker, and the founder of Embrace the Grape Beverage Catering, a pioneering beverage-only catering company she built into one of the most respected event brands in the Kansas City region.
After more than two decades leading teams, navigating high-pressure client environments, and building multiple businesses, Jane noticed a pattern: the biggest leadership problems were rarely about strategy. They were about self-awareness.
Leaders often believe they understand themselves, their decisions, and their impact on others. In reality, most are operating from incomplete self-perception.
Jane developed a practical leadership framework called The Road to Leadership Cohesion, which helps leaders understand how they see themselves, how others experience them, and how emotional and analytical thinking shape their decisions.
Through engaging stories from entrepreneurship, leadership, and real-world business challenges, Jane helps audiences develop what she calls Inner Cohesion: the alignment between self-awareness, decision-making, and leadership behavior.
The result is leaders who communicate more clearly, lead teams more effectively, and pursue fulfillment alongside success.
Jane speaks to corporate teams, leadership conferences, and professional associations about how self-awareness transforms leadership effectiveness, team trust, and organizational culture.
Contact pitch.jane@aleyaharris.com for booking.
Strong organizations are built by leaders who understand themselves and lead others with clarity. This session shows administrators how self-awareness, communication, and accountability improve culture, reduce friction, and strengthen performance. Attendees leave with practical strategies to lead teams confidently through growth, change, and daily operational demands.
Under the Dome: 2026 Legislative Recap and the Road to 2027
Location: 420
Andy Grover
IASA
Heather Williams
IASA & IRSA
Join IASA for a review of the 2026 legislative session and a look ahead to key issues expected to shape the 2027 session. Learn about enacted legislation, emerging policy trends, and IASA advocacy priorities while providing feedback to help inform the association's future legislative agenda.
What Gets in the Way? Why Change Efforts Stall in Schools
Location: 410 C
Hailey Clements
The Shifted Mindset
Hailey Clements has nearly 15 years of experience helping organizations and communities build the conditions where people can thrive. As Founder of The Shifted Mindset, she works with educators and leaders across Idaho to understand how stress, environment, and organizational culture influence behavior, learning, and performance. Her background spans public health, national advocacy, coalition building, and statewide community engagement. She is certified in the Community Resiliency Model, the HOPE Framework, and trauma and resilience training through Starr Commonwealth. She is known for making complex ideas accessible and helping leaders move from conversations about change to meaningful action.
Katie Francis
The Shifted Mindset and Idaho Department of Education
Katie Francis is an educator, former principal, and statewide school safety leader with more than 15 years of experience supporting schools, students, and educators across Idaho. She currently serves as Program Coordinator for See Tell Now, Idaho's statewide school safety reporting system, and works directly with school districts on school safety, threat assessment, prevention, and student support initiatives. Katie has served as a principal, district coordinator, classroom teacher, instructional coach, consultant, and nonprofit leader. Through The Shifted Mindset, she partners with schools and organizations to strengthen leadership, improve school culture, and build practical systems that support both students and staff. She is a trusted voice in school improvement, leadership development, and educator well-being and is known for translating research into practical strategies leaders can immediately apply. Katie holds an Educational Specialist degree with Superintendent Endorsement from Idaho State University, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Boise State University and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Education.
School leaders interpret stalled initiatives as resistance, lack of buy-in, or poor communication. In reality, stress and system conditions play a larger role. This session provides a practical framework for identifying what is getting in the way of change and creating the conditions that help improvement efforts take hold.
Advancing Equity Through Literacy: Supporting Multilingual and Bidialectal Learners
Location: 110 C/D
Tiffany Peltier
NWEA & The Center for Model Schools
Dr. Tiffany Peltier is a researcher and expert in early literacy, reading difficulties, and dyslexia, with multiple peer-reviewed publications on reading and math assessment, intervention, and teacher training. As Segment Director at the Center for Model Schools, she translates research into actionable services aligned with the science of learning for leaders and educators. She has developed and facilitated professional learning nationwide, is president of the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (CERI), and serves on the National Advisory Board for Learning Ally. Dr. Peltier actively works to bridge research and practice, combat misconceptions through learning science, and support data-driven decisions at the state, district, school, and classroom levels.
Leaders will learn the science behind supporting culturally and linguistically diverse learners. Participate in activities and simulations that illustrate ways to harness strengths of multilingual and bidialectal learners. Leave with a better understanding of how schools and systems can leverage students’ funds of knowledge to strengthen and support classroom content.
Are you the thermostat or the thermometer? Why Mind Power matters in the school and the classroom.
Location: 120 A
Clay Robinson
Minidoka School District
Clay has over 15 years of teaching experience, ranging from first grade up to seniors in high school. He has been studying neuroscience and trauma healing for the past 12 years and has been applying it in the classroom to help students manage their emotions, break through their limiting beliefs, develop skills for success, and to heal. While still currently teaching in the classroom, he has been creating curriculum and training teachers throughout Idaho using the principles learned. Not only has Clay applied these mindset principles in the classroom, but has also coached state championship high school teams using these same tools.
Our self-image governs our behavior. If we want to change behaviors, it is crucial to change our self-image. As school leaders, we must be at a higher mind power level to influence others. We will discuss specific tools to increase our leverage as leaders in the school.
Beyond Compliance: Using Walkthrough Data to Improve Teaching and Learning
Location: 410 A/B
Casey McLaughlin
Lake Pend Oreille School District
Dr. Casey McLaughlin is an educator, leader, and lifelong student of organizational improvement who currently serves as Assistant Superintendent for the Lake Pend Oreille School District. Over the past 24 years, he has served as a teacher, principal, director, and district leader, helping schools navigate change, develop leaders, and improve outcomes for students.
Casey holds a Doctorate of Education in Human Performance Improvement and is passionate about the intersection of leadership, systems thinking, and human potential. Throughout his career, he has led districtwide initiatives focused on strategic planning, culture development, instructional improvement, and organizational change. His work is grounded in the belief that lasting transformation occurs when people are empowered, expectations are clear, and systems are designed to help everyone succeed.
Matt Brass
Lake Pend Oreille School District
Matt Brass serves as Director of Technology for the Lake Pend Oreille School District in North Idaho, where he leads technology operations, cybersecurity, infrastructure, data systems, and strategic planning across multiple schools and thousands of student and staff devices.
With more than two decades of experience in education technology, Matt has built and led high-performing teams responsible for network engineering, systems administration, student information systems, cybersecurity, instructional technology, and data management. His leadership philosophy focuses on developing sustainable systems, empowering teams, and creating operational cultures that scale beyond any single individual.
In addition to his work in K–12 education, Matt is a software engineer and entrepreneur who designs and develops custom applications that solve real-world operational challenges. His projects include educational technology platforms, workflow automation tools, reporting systems, and SaaS applications that help organizations improve efficiency and decision-making.
Mathew is passionate about helping school districts leverage technology to improve outcomes while maintaining a practical focus on security, sustainability, and service. His presentations combine strategic leadership perspectives with hands-on technical experience, providing attendees with actionable ideas they can immediately apply within their own organizations.
Most districts collect walkthrough and evaluation data, but few turn it into actionable leadership insight. Learn how a district-built observation platform transformed walkthroughs from a compliance task into a coaching, accountability, and decision-making system that supports teachers, principals, and district leaders.
Building the Workforce Pipeline: How Middle Schools Can Lead Career-Connected Learning
Location: 120 B
Lauren Duris
Learning Blade
Districts must take a systems-level approach to career-connected learning to strengthen CTE pathways. This session shows how middle schools can build career awareness aligned to workforce needs using Learning Blade. Idaho educators can implement this model at no cost through statewide funding from the Idaho STEM Action Center.
From Milespost to EdHub to Prometric Pathways: Transforming Data into Action for Idaho Schools
Location: 440
Greg Manzi
Prometric, LLC
Lacee Peterson
Prometric, Inc.
Learn about the exciting enhancements and updates taking place for Idaho districts and schools with the former Milespost/Vitae products through the changes to EdPower and now K-12 Prometric Pathways.
Future of Idaho's Mathematics
Location: 420
Katie Bosch-Wilson
Idaho Department of Education
Katie Bosch-Wilson, currently the Computer Science and Secondary Mathematics Coordinator, Idaho Department of Education, has 13 years of public education experience, ranging from classroom teaching to district leadership. Katie holds master’s degrees in mathematics education and Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Computer Science.
Join Idaho Department of Education for an overview of Idaho's math initiatives. This session covers the Comprehensive Math Plan, Math Instructional Guide, and Project IMPACT, a professional learning opportunity for grades 3–8 educators, plus time for Q&A on state priorities.
Showing Up Matters-So Does How We Ask: Trauma-Informed Communication for Better Attendance
Location: 430 B
Jessica Lecertua
IDAHO VIRTUAL ACADEMY
Jessica is a seasoned school counselor offering more 15 years of experience in an online environment. Considered an expert and known leader in the field by colleagues, she is currently serving as the Counselor Administrator for Idaho Virtual Academy, and the Advocacy Chair for the Idaho School Counselors Association, where she served as the 2020 President. Jessica is passionate about building strong relationships and promoting a culture of kindness through empathy, collaboration, and most importantly, student advocacy. She is experienced in speaking in front of groups addressing topics surrounding suicide prevention, effective online communication, advanced opportunities, online ethics, advocacy, and social-emotional learning.
Madeline Vansanten
Discover how trauma-informed, culturally responsive communication can transform your attendance work. This session equips administrators with practical strategies to build trust, uncover root causes, and engage families with empathy. Learn approaches that shift conversations, strengthen relationships, and improve school connection and attendance.
The Alignment Gap - Closing the Gap Between Vision, Priorities, and Daily Leadership
Location: 110 A/B
Michelle Egbert
Framework for Success
Michelle Egbert helps entrepreneurs and small business owners create their own Framework for Success™ by aligning purpose, priorities, and practical strategy into a business and life that works together — not against each other.
As the author of the book Framework for Success™, Michelle teaches how to close what she calls “the Alignment Gap” — the disconnect between how they are living, leading, and building their businesses versus the life and impact they truly want to create.
With more than 20 years of experience in consulting and strategic planning, Michelle helps women business owners gain clarity, create intentional growth, and lead with confidence. Known for blending practical strategy with personal alignment, she helps entrepreneurs move from overwhelm and constant reaction into intentional leadership, sustainable growth, and greater visibility.
Michelle is passionate about helping others become more visible in their businesses while building success that supports both their professional goals and personal lives.
When she’s not developing strategies or teaching others how to align purpose with action, you can find her hiking with her family, exploring new camping adventures, or curled up with a good book planning life’s next adventure.
School leaders are expected to manage change, communicate effectively, and support staff and students while often feeling overwhelmed themselves. Michelle explores The Alignment Gap and how misalignment contributes to burnout, decision fatigue, and reactive leadership. Attendees will gain practical strategies to realign priorities and lead with greater clarity and sustainability.
The New Blueprint for IDLA
Location: 130
Jeff Simmons
Idaho Digital Learning Alliance
Jeff Farden
Idaho Digital Learning Alliance
Idaho Digital Learning Alliance (IDLA) is Idaho's state virtual program. The 2026 Idaho Legislative session changed our scope. This session will review the new IDLA blueprint. We will share what we will stop, what we will reduce, and where we will refocus during the 26-27 school year.
Women Leading the West: Building the Leadership Pipeline
Location: 200
Heather Williams
IASA & Idaho Rural Schools Association
What can we learn from women leaders across the Mountain West? This session will share findings from a regional survey of educators in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming, highlighting leadership trends, barriers to advancement, mentorship needs, and strategies for strengthening the leadership pipeline.
You Already Have the Data: Aligning Service Demand and Staffing Allocations while Maximizing Funding
Location: 410 C
Mauria Uhlik
Public Consulting Group
Dr. Uhlik is a Senior Consultant in Public Consulting Group’s (PCG) Education practice within the Special Education Services team. She is a systems-level thinker who leads complex special education reviews and implementation engagements nationwide, translating mixed-methods data into clear, actionable insights for executive and public audiences. She is frequently engaged in high-stakes, public-facing settings, including board and leadership presentations, where clarity and credibility are essential. She is a trusted advisor to clients, supporting partnerships, organic growth, and strategic expansion of service offerings across state and district education systems. She partners with state and district leaders to strengthen special education systems, implementation fidelity, and long-term sustainability as they navigate change. Dr. Uhlik brings a rare combination of practitioner experience, policy expertise, and research fluency, enabling clients to move from analysis to action with confidence.
Jessica Rod
Public Consulting Group
Jennifer Meller
Public Consulting Group
Florie Wong
Public Consulting Group
David O'Leary
Public Consulting Group
Every administrator already has the core datasets needed to evaluate special education staffing: service minutes, caseloads, provider schedules, and staffing rosters. Yet in most districts, these data exist in isolation, limiting the ability to assess whether staffing decisions are aligned to student need, service delivery requirements, and available resources.
From First Words to Financial Wisdom: Read, Think, and Thrive with Footsteps2Brilliance
Location: 120 A
Greg Spencer
Footsteps2brilliance Inc
Dr. Greg Spencer serves as VP with Footsteps2Brilliance, a Birth - Elementary school bilingual literacy solution that supports a fun and gamified way to eliminate illiteracy for all children. pencer went on to become a teacher in the Los Angeles Unified School District. He moved on to other school districts and served as a Principal, elected City Commissioner, and School Board President. Greg concluded his K-12 career as a Superintendent, serving kids just like him.
During his educational journey and via a joint Doctoral program at M.I.T., Greg earned his Ph.D. in
Education & Trauma Counseling. Dr. Spencer is a leading expert on ACE’s and volunteers to counsel
individuals and organizations.
Dr. Spencer also volunteers and coaches retired and pro-NFL players, as well as their wives and families who have
suffered childhood abuse, marital issues, or CTE trauma. Dr. Spencer was recruited to be the CEO of the
NFL Alumni Association to serve 35 regional chapters, but he turned it down to stay focused on working with educators and supporting the needs of children and students. Because of his volunteer work with players and their families, Dr. Spencer was honored by inducted as a Lifetime Member of the NFL Alumni Association.
Explore how Footsteps2Brilliance creates a seamless birth–8th grade pathway from early literacy to financial literacy. This session highlights how literacy, writing, SEL, bilingual learning, family engagement, and equitable access work together to build confident, capable students prepared for school, career, and life.
Simplify Evaluation. Strengthen Coaching. Save Time.
Location: 410 A/B
Ryan Stanley
Lebra
Ryan Stanley, Ed.D. brings more than two decades of experience in K–12 education — from classroom teacher and coach to principal and district administrator — to his role as Vice President of Partnerships at Lebra. His leadership journey has been rooted in culture, connection, and service. Across his work, Ryan has focused on using practical, purposeful innovation to solve the everyday challenges that consume education leaders.
Paige Goodson
Middleton School District 134
Paige has served the Middleton School District since 2005, supporting students and educators in a variety of instructional and leadership roles. She has worked as a high school English, speech, reading, and leadership teacher, as well as a technology integration specialist and instructional specialist. She currently serves as the Director of Curriculum & Assessment, where she leads district wide efforts to strengthen curriculum, assessment systems, and professional learning to ensure high-quality outcomes for all students.
Ryan Nesmith
Twin Falls School District 411
Ryan is currently serving as the Associate Superintendent of Federal Program at Twin Falls school district 411. He has been in this role since July 2023. He also oversees Assessments for the district. Ryan has served in a variety of building level leadership roles for 9 years prior to moving into the district role. He recently completed his PhD in Educational Leadership in 2024. He has described himself as having been educated as a student in the Twin Falls School District, noting the influence of district educators on his life and leadership perspective.
School leaders didn’t get into education to manage paperwork—they want to support growth and build strong relationships with staff.
Hear district leaders share how they redesigned evaluation systems to simplify state reporting, save time, and create space for coaching-focused conversations through process improvements and tools, including Lebra.
Special Operations Lessons Learned - Mapping Failures in School and Infrastructure Emergencies
Location: 440
Josh Longenecker
Critical Response Group
Josh Longenecker is a former USAF Pararescue (PJ) team leader. He deployed overseas as a lead medic, rescue specialist and team leader with several special operations teams, including SEAL Team 4, 10th Special Forces Group, 321st Special Tactics Squadron, 48th Rescue Squadron, and 58th Rescue Squadron. He also kept his NREMT-Paramedic currency between deployments working as a paramedic with agencies such as the Albuquerque Fire Department and Richmond Ambulance Authority. Josh was the team leader for Air Force Detachment 3's rescue, recovery, and contingency operations team for NASA's manned space flights of Dragon Crew 2 and Crew 3 to the International Space Station and back. In 2012, Josh's mother-in-law was killed in an active shooter incident at a mall in Portland, Oregon. Upon finishing his military service, he dedicated his life to bringing his tactical, emergency medical, and contingency planning expertise to public safety agencies so that they can respond more efficiently to emergency incidents. Josh holds a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of North Florida, and an MBA from the University of Denver. He is a regional director for the Critical Response Group, a team of special operations veterans and retired public safety professionals, committed to enhancing the safety and efficiency of emergency response for k-12 schools.
Josh illustrates a core problem facing public safety in incidents like Uvalde and Parkland. Drawing from special operations experience, he shows how operators solved similar challenges overseas—and how those lessons now improve emergency response in more than 35,000 U.S. schools.
State Evaluations
Location: 430 A
Jon Rehder
Cottonwood School District
I’m starting my 23rd year in Idaho Public Education. I have worked in 3 different districts in my career (West Ada, Caldwell and Cottonwood). Classroom teacher for 10 years, starting my 13th year in administration. Very rewarding job, but it can definitely have its moments! I keep fighting the good fight on a daily basis!
My work motto every day is: “Just Another Day In Paradise!”
I have been on the State Evaluation team for the past 5 years!
Brian Kress
Blackfoot School District
I’m starting my 26th year in Idaho Public Education. My entire career has been with the Blackfoot School District. Science and Math teacher for 5 years. Building administrator for 5 years. District business manager for 4 year. 12th year as Superintendent. I am not shy about sharing my support for Idaho Public Education. Yes, I am usually the guy in the back row asking all the questions everyone else is afraid to ask.
WHAT YOU NEED TO HAVE FOR A SUCCESSFUL STATE AUDIT FOR YOUR DISTRICT AND TO MEET THE STATE REQUIREMENTS ON EVALUATIONS
The 360-Degree Connection: Bridging Home and School for Radical Student Mental Wellness - Proven District Toolkit
Location: 410 C
Paul Richins
Cook Center for Human Connection
Paul Richins, MS - Senior Director, K12 and Community Advocacy: Intermountain West/Hawaii and Alaska.
As a passionate advocate of K12 Mental Health, wellness, and leadership, Paul has over 28 years of experience in the K12 field of education as a teacher/professor, content consultant, and leadership trainer - all specializing in empowering student achievement through technology, health and wellness, leadership, and science. After teaching at the college/university level, Paul made the transition to working for some of the biggest educational publishers in the world - Pearson, McDougal Littel, Scott Foresman, McGraw Hill etc - as a content consultant and in sales. He has presented and trained teachers across the country in some of the largest and smallest K12 school systems nation-wide. He is an engaging presenter, trainer and leader sensitive to the dynamics of what impacts and affects students achievement and outcomes - and how to get students/teachers there..
Paul is a passionate outdoor athlete, has coached many high-level club and travel sports teams, has co-founded two non-profit organizations and is a proud dad and grandpa to his amazing family. He is an aspiring author with many books in outline format - in short, he loves what he does and he does what he loves.
Idaho Proven: Student success is no longer defined solely by academic output; it is inextricably linked to the mental wellness of the entire school ecosystem. To achieve "radical" wellness and higher student achievement, districts must move beyond siloed interventions and embrace a 360-degree connection.
The Discipline S.H.I.F.T.: How Leaders Support Teachers & Transform Student Behavior
Location: 120 C
Joelle Hood
Thriving YOUniversity
Dr. Joelle Hood is the co-founder and Chief Empowerment Officer at Thriving YOUniversity. As a former teacher and principal of the year and with an Ed.D in organizational change and leadership from USC, Dr. Hood uses her knowledge and expertise, along with her experience as a mindfulness instructor and life coach, to provide research-based keynotes, coaching, and experiential learning workshops to individuals and organizations throughout the nation. Her areas of expertise include social, emotional & academic learning; leadership; applied educational neuroscience; mindfulness; the science of belonging & human connection; mindset; restorative practices; employee engagement; trust and team-building; trauma-responsive practices; and resilience.
When student behavior escalates, the response is often reactive—focused on consequences rather than change. This session challenges leaders to rethink discipline by moving from punishment to proactive, skill-building systems. Participants explore how to strengthen Tier 1 practices, build capacity, and support staff before, during, and after behavior challenges.
The IDE Download: What Every School Leader Needs to Know
Location: 130
Greg Wilson
Idaho Department of Education
Scott Thunstrom
IDE
Spencer Barzee
Join representatives from the Idaho State Department of Education for a practical update on key legislation from the 2026 Idaho Legislative Session. Learn what’s required, implementation timelines, related to bullying, civics, fetal development, human sexuality instruction, artificial intelligence, and other policy changes impacting Idaho schools and districts.
The Principal's Literacy Leadership Playbook
Location: 120 B
Joni Stevenson
Stevenson Consulting
https://www.stevenson-consulting.com/about
Four leadership moves that turn literacy knowledge into school wide practice. Many principals want to support strong early literacy instruction but are unsure what to look for in classrooms. This session provides a practical leadership playbook for identifying effective literacy practices, conducting meaningful walkthroughs, and supporting teachers.
Wait, what? You are arming staff members?
Location: 430 B
Luke Schroeder
Kimberly
Luke Schroeder is the Superintendent of Kimberly School District and is entering his 15th year in the position. He has served as a building-level principal at every level during his 33-year career in education.
This session highlights how a school district once opposed to arming staff used analysis of time and response realities to guide decision-making. The result was a data-driven program to train selected staff.
When Students Thrive: Aligning School Culture, Mental Health, and Academic Success
Location: 110 C/D
Courtney Sommer
The Jed Foundation
Courtney Sommer, LCSW partners with district leaders across the Mountain West region to build and sustain comprehensive systems that promote mental health, prevent suicide, and foster supportive school environments. Courtney brings 20 years of experience in education, youth empowerment and mental health. She has specialized expertise in positive youth development, behavior, crisis management, suicide prevention and postvention, and building sustainable school and district systems. Prior to joining JED, Courtney spent seven years as a school social worker and three years as a district mental health leader, where she oversaw the implementation of tiered mental health interventions, crisis response, student safety, and trauma-informed behavioral interventions. Her leadership helped shape district-wide strategies to improve access to care, strengthen crisis response, and create a culture of mental wellness across school communities. Courtney holds a Bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies from Vassar College and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Denver. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certified yoga instructor, Courtney blends clinical expertise with holistic, mindfulness-based approaches. She is also a former Outward Bound instructor and currently serves as the Mental Health Advisor to the Colorado Outward Bound School, helping integrate best practices in mental health into outdoor experiential education. Rooted in a deep connection to the outdoors, she has lived and worked in Utah, Alaska, Arkansas and throughout Colorado. She now resides in Denver with her family and finds inspiration in the mountains and on the river whenever she can.
Nate Musser
The Jed Foundation
Nate Musser began his career in education as a 6th grade English teacher through Teach For America, where he discovered a deep passion for supporting students beyond the classroom. He later transitioned into school counseling in Wyoming, working closely with students, families, and educators to foster environments that support both academic success and social-emotional well-being. Nate also served as a building lead, guiding school-wide initiatives and championing mental health programming at the administrative level.
He holds a B.A. in Philosophy from the University of Wyoming and an M.A. in School Counseling from Denver Seminary. Nate is excited to bring his experience in education and student mental health to The Jed Foundation’s mission of protecting emotional health and preventing suicide for teens and young adults.
When he’s not working, Nate enjoys exploring the mountains, paddling rivers, or hitting the pickleball court.
Schools built on student support and engagement don't happen by accident. This session explores the connection between mental health systems, student-centered learning, and academic success. Drawing on JED's framework, leaders will leave with practical strategies to foster belonging, student voice, and whole-child support
AI for Learning: Instant Insights, Stronger Instruction, Better Results
Location: 440
Greg Manzi
Prometric, LLC
Melissa Gutierrez
Prometric, Inc.
Explore how the right tools empower Educational Leaders to lead with clarity and impact. This session highlights how AI-driven insights align curriculum, assessments, and professional learning; enabling school leaders to close learning gaps, strengthen instruction, and make strategic decisions that elevate student achievement across the district.
Alternate Realities: Winning School Choice in Blue, Red and Purple States
Location: 430 A
Greg Turchetta
Apptegy
Greg has spent his entire 33 career practicing and then teaching the art of branded storytelling. For 22 years, he produced Emmy Award-winning television news programs and then taught reporters and anchors how to do it as a newsroom editorial leader. Looking to make a greater impact, he took that media and marketing experience to K-12 serving as a Chief Communications Officer for 10 years across 4 different school systems. Since joining Apptegy, Greg has trained K-12 school districts to tell their own success stories and proactively build their brands to recruit students and staff, and to create authentic community engagement. Greg has been a K-12 thought leader and a featured presenter at state and national conferences since 2014.
Alex Blake
Apptegy
Alex Blake
Apptegy
Changing demographics, parental rights and school choice legislation are putting enrollment pressure and budgetary strains on school districts like never before. Here’s what keeps superintendents up at night: It’s about budget cuts, staff reductions, and communities questioning whether their public schools are worth choosing.
Decision 2026: A Conversation with Idaho's Candidates for Superintendent of Public Instruction
Location: 130
Brian Kress
Blackfoot School District
Becky Meyer
Lake Pend Orielle School District
Hear directly from the candidates seeking to serve as Idaho's next Superintendent of Public Instruction. This moderated forum will provide an opportunity to learn about each candidate's vision, priorities, and perspectives on the key issues facing Idaho's public schools and educational leaders.
Idaho LAUNCH - Empowering Your Student's Future Career
Location: 420
Sherawn Reberry
Idaho Workforce Development Council
Theresa Peabody
Idaho Workforce Development Council
Explore Idaho's statewide career readiness initiatives, including Idaho LAUNCH and practical career exploration resources. Learn how schools can strengthen advising, expand career-connected learning, and build partnerships that prepare students for high-demand careers through actionable strategies, data, and real-world examples from across Idaho.
Ignite Your Leadership Potential
Location: 140
Oakland McCulloch
Your Leadership Legacy
Oakland McCulloch graduated from Northern Illinois University and received his commission as an Infantry Officer through the Reserve Officer Training Course in 1986.
In his 23-year career in the Army Oak McCulloch held numerous leadership positions in
the Infantry and Armor branches. He assisted in disaster relief operations for Hurricane
HUGO in Charleston, South Carolina and Hurricane ANDREW in south Florida. His
operational deployments include Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia
and Iraq, Peace Enforcement operations in Bosnia and Peace Keeping operations in Kosovo.
LTC McCulloch retired from the Army in September 2009 with over 23 years of active
service and joined the staff at the Bay Area Food Bank as the Associate Director.
LTC McCulloch left the food bank in December 2010 to become the Senior Military Science Instructor and recruiter for the Army ROTC program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Cadet Command selected LTC McCulloch as the top recruiting officer, out of 274 recruiters, for 2019.
Oak published his first book in February 2021 – “Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be”. He is now an internationally recognized keynote speaker.
LTC McCulloch earned a Bachelor of Science degree in History from Northern Illinois
University in 1987 and a Master of Military Arts and Science in Leadership and History from the United States Army Command and General Staff College in 2002. He received thirty-one military service awards including the Bronze Star, eight Meritorious Service Medals and the Humanitarian Service Medal.
Oakland McCulloch has 40 + years of leadership experience, in Combat, Peacekeeping, Disaster Relief and in the Boardroom. His talk is based on his wealth of knowledge learned during his career as a leader. Oak highlights leadership principles that will benefit today's leaders and inspire the leaders of tomorrow.
Joyful Determination: What Extreme Environments Teach Us About Leading Schools Through Uncertainty
Location: 110 C/D
Tommy Joyce
Joyce Productions
Tommy Joyce is one of the most compelling voices in adventure filmmaking today and a proven keynote speaker who knows how to command a room. Over fifteen years he has built a career in places most people only see on a screen, leading creative teams across seven continents in some of the world's most extreme and demanding environments. His work for clients including National Geographic, Rolex and Adidas has earned two Telly Awards, the Banff Mountain Film Festival People's Choice Award, Best Documentary at both the Oceanside International and Florence Film Festivals, and Best Cinematography at the Golden Gate International Film Festival.
Before launching Joyce Productions, Tommy built and scaled Triage Creative into a multi-million dollar production studio, proving that the same instincts that drive exceptional filmmaking — courage, adaptability and the ability to lead under pressure — translate directly into building exceptional organizations. He holds a degree in Finance and Economics from the University of Denver.
Tommy has spoken to students and educators at Boulder High School, where his presentation left students so engaged their teacher wished the session had been longer. His keynotes consistently earn strong audience feedback for his ability to educate, inspire and connect with any room he walks into.
The most important decisions school leaders make rarely happen when conditions are perfect. In this keynote, award-winning National Geographic director Tommy Joyce draws on fifteen years in extreme environments to share a field-tested framework for building resilience and leading school communities through uncertainty with courage and clarity.
Potential Legal Pitfalls for Schools Presented by the 2026 Adoption of the 2025 Revised Special Education Manual
Location: 110 A/B
Anne Magnelli
AJH Law
Discussion about the provisions of the (amended) Idaho Special Education Manual that go into effect as of July 1, 2026, in particular, the new 45-school-day initial eligibility timeline and the more explicit adoption by the Manual of the existing IDEA law on discipline of students with disabilities.
Safe Schools, Strong Systems: Leveraging Idaho's School Safety Resources for Prevention and Response
Location: 430 B
Katie Francis
Idaho State Board of Education, School Safety and Security
Katie Francis is an educator, former principal, and statewide school safety leader with more than 15 years of experience supporting schools, students, and educators across Idaho. She currently serves as Program Coordinator for See Tell Now, Idaho's statewide school safety reporting system, and works directly with districts and schools on school safety, threat assessment, prevention, reporting systems, and student support initiatives through the Idaho Office of School Safety and Security as the Charter School Analyst.
Katie has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, principal, district coordinator, and consultant, giving her a unique perspective on the realities school leaders face. In her current role, she partners with schools across Idaho to strengthen prevention efforts, safety planning, multidisciplinary response systems, and school climate initiatives. She is a trusted voice in school safety, prevention, and student well-being and is known for translating complex concepts into practical strategies that schools can implement immediately. Katie holds an Educational Specialist degree with Superintendent Endorsement from Idaho State University, a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from Boise State University, and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Education.
School safety is about more than responding to crisis. Idaho schools have access to training, technical assistance, and prevention tools designed to strengthen safety systems. This session provides school leaders with practical strategies for leveraging available resources, including See Tell Now, to support prevention, intervention, and safety planning.
The Emotionally Intelligent Leader: Four Skills Every School Administrator Needs Today
Location: 120 C
Matthew McDaniel
The College of Idaho
Matthew McDaniel, PhD is an educational leader, professor, consultant, and program director whose career blends K–12 teaching, administration, and higher education experience. As the current Director of the Master of Education Program and Assistant Professor at The College of Idaho, he leads the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership program, championing a leadership pipeline model for Idaho school districts. His work also includes leading the College’s Center for Continuing Education. A former traditional public and charter school principal, Dr. McDaniel has a record of achieving measurable academic gains, reducing behavioral incidents through trauma-informed and restorative practices, and elevating English Learner progress to some of the highest levels in Idaho. He holds a BA in Secondary Vocal Music, M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, and PhD in Education with an emphasis in Educational Leadership.
Dr. McDaniel is also the Founder and CEO of Cresvia Education Consulting where he supports schools, school boards, nonprofits, and educational organizations through leadership coaching, strategic planning, MTSS/RtI guidance, and team development. His scholarship and presentations span authentic leadership, collective teacher efficacy, microlearning, literacy leadership, and AI in education, with speaking engagements spanning local professional development, statewide summits, national conferences, and international workshops. Beyond education, Dr. McDaniel is involved in nonprofit board leadership. He lives in Caldwell with his spouse and three children.
It's more important than ever that school leaders understand and strengthen their Emotional Intelligence. Through a guided self-assessment and exploration of practical strategies, participants will explore several core EQ domains and work through various scenarios to improve communication, decision-making, and school culture via emotionally intelligent leadership practices.
The Multiplier Effect: How Conversation-Based Leadership Builds Sustainable Capacity and Trust
Location: 410 C
Christopher Powell
Bonneville District 93
Dr. Christopher Powell graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in Exercise Science before earning his Master’s in Education and teaching credential from Loyola Marymount University in 2005. In 2018, he completed a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership at Brandman University.
His career in education began in 1999 and has included teaching and administration in Delaware, Los Angeles, Mammoth Lakes, and Idaho Falls. In the classroom, he taught high school science, math, and PE. He is driven to provide opportunities for kids to pursue their passions and has coached baseball, swimming, volleyball, and lacrosse and spent 8 years as an Athletic Director before becoming a principal.
Chris served for 6 years as Principal of Mammoth High School before coming to Idaho Falls in 2019. Upon arrival in Idaho Falls, he served as Principal at Eagle Rock Middle School for 2 years, followed by a 4-year Principalship at Idaho Falls High School and is currently the Principal at Woodland Hills Elementary School in Bonneville School District 93.
While at IFHS in 2024, Dr. Powell was selected as the District Administrator of the Year for support of Speech and Debate, the Lou Gourley Outstanding Administrator as chosen by the Idaho Falls Education Association, and the Idaho Secondary Principal of the Year by the Idaho Association of Secondary School Principals. He is passionate inspiring and developing kids and future school leaders.
When not working, Chris, his wife Jackie, and their three kids, Elisabeth, Lincoln, and Priscilla, enjoy spending time as a family in the outdoors. They are avid skiers in the winter and spend summers floating East Idaho rivers and lakes, camping, gardening, or just sitting around a firepit.
Explore practical, sustainable approaches to developing leaders at every level of your organization to strengthen retention and create a deeper pool of leadership talent. Participants will learn strategies to identify and nurture future leaders and build a pipeline of team members who are prepared to lead.
Accreditation That Drives Growth: Building School Excellence Through Continuous Improvement
Location: 430 A
Mike Poe
Array Global Accreditation
Dr. E. Michael (Mike) Poe has been an educator for the past 45 years at K-12, university and international levels. He is currently Professor Emeritus at Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) in the Graduate Education Department for the area of Educational Leadership and is currently involved with consulting with educational institutions. At the K-12 level he served as a teacher and administrator for 18 years. He was selected as the Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year for Idaho in 1993 and was recently named the L.E. Wesche Outstanding Educator for 2022. His 25 years of service to NNU included staff and faculty positions including Education Department Chair, Graduate Education Department Chair, Educational Leadership Program Director, and various elected faculty officer positions.
He also developed several Education Specialist degrees in Educational Leadership and developed the initial Doctor of Education program for NNU. Dr. Poe’s international work includes presentations and consulting in Colombia, China, and Saudi Arabia. He has also worked with graduate students in Ukraine, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Algeria, South Korea and The Bahamas as well as across the United States. Dr. Poe earned his doctorate and education specialist degrees from the University of Idaho, master’s degree from the College of Idaho and his bachelor's degree from Northwest Nazarene University. His current work with school accreditation goes back 35 years and includes K-12 regional and international accreditations and university accreditations.
Bob Sanchez
Array Global Accreditation
Dr. Robert (Bob) Sanchez has a distinguished record spanning education, government, business, and his 24-year military career as a U.S. Army Commissioned Officer (Retired). He earned a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and an M.B.A. from Northwest Nazarene University. He has held executive roles including Executive Director for a statewide non-profit, Vice President for Idaho Business for Education, and Chief of Staff for the City of Nampa.
Bob advises educational leadership teams on strategy, change, and organizational performance. In addition to evaluating, designing, and implementing operational changes, he works directly with business leaders, school administrators, and teachers on how to best channel their capacities and capabilities to accelerate student success.
Accreditation should drive meaningful school improvement and student success. This session explores practical strategies for strengthening mission alignment, instruction, and organizational coherence through accreditation. Presenters will share actionable tools while introducing Array Global Accreditation as Idaho’s newest accreditation option in Idaho focused on collaboration and continuous improvement.
AI for Human-Centered Learning
Location: 440
Ben Jensen
SchoolAI
Despite decades of investment in educational technology, schools still struggle with delayed feedback, overwhelmed teachers, and limited capacity. This session explores how AI may represent a fundamentally different shift—helping schools expand instructional capacity, scale individualized support, and strengthen human-centered learning while keeping educators at the center of instruction.
Behind Every Great District: The Board-Superintendent Relationship
Location: 430 B
Randy Russell
RLR Leadership Consulting
Dr. Randy Russell has served as the Freeman, WA School District Superintendent for fifteen years. Dr. Russell is a visionary and results-producing Education Leader with a career-long passion for serving others by focusing on relationships, leadership, and partnerships for educational excellence. His positive, outgoing personality enables him to interact, communicate, build relationships, and work successfully with a diverse range of students, staff, adults and agencies.
Under Dr. Russell’s leadership in Freeman, the Freeman School District has achieved a high school graduation rate exceeding 98%; developed a collaborative professional development system grades P-12; successfully completed over $45 million of construction projects including the renovation of Freeman High School and Elementary schools, a new K-8 multi-purpose room, a new Palouse Regional Transportation Cooperative, a remodeled Freeman Middle School, the painting of all exterior buildings, and complete renovation of all athletic facilities; passed levies, capital project levies and technology levies; and developed a broad school and community engagement processes to create and implement the Freeman 2020, 2025, and 2026 Strategic Plans. Freeman SD was 1 of 25 school districts in Washington State to win the 2026 OSPI Educational Excellence in Academic Achievement Award.
He currently serves as the AASA Superintendent Response and Recovery Network Co-Chair, is on the NEWASA Board, the Banner Furnace and Fuel Board of Directors and the North Palouse Chamber of Commerce Board. He has served on the AASA Governing Board and Executive Committee, as well as the WASA Board of Directors. In addition to serving as the WASA President, Randy has also served on the WASA Professional Standards and Ethics Committee, as the WASA Superintendent’s Component Chairperson, the NorthEast Washington School Administrator’s President and as the Spokane, WA County Superintendent’s President.
Randy has served thirty-eight years in education as a teacher, coach, assistant principal and principal in Washington, Idaho and Montana in addition to his time as a superintendent. He is an award-winning educator, speaker, and author and has been the keynote speaker and presenter at numerous local, state, regional, and national conferences and symposiums. He is also the Founder and President of RLR Leadership Consulting.
Education: Ph.D. - University of Idaho; Education Specialist Degree - University of Idaho; MA Degree - Whitworth University; BA Degree - Whitworth University.
A few of Randy’s awards include:
Greater Spokane Valley Chamber / Freeman SD Educator of the Year – Freeman, WA School District (2026)
Business Rate Best Consultant Award – RLR Leadership Consulting (2026, 2025, 2024)
Who’s Who in Executive Leaders – Marquis Top Executives (2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2017, 2011, 2010)
Top 50 Culture Builders – Award Winning Culture (2020)
WA State Leadership Award – Washington Association of School Administrators (2019)
University of Idaho Educator’s Award – University of Idaho (2019)
Spirit of Leadership Award – NorthEast Washington ESD 101 (2018)
Spirit of American Red Cross Award - American Red Cross (2018)
WA State Award of Merit - Washington Association of School Administrators (2016)
President’s Appreciation Award - Rockford Lions (2014)
“Grace Under Pressure” Award - Washington State Department of Health (2014)
Employer Support Freedom Award – USA Secretary/Department of Defense (2009, 2008, 2007)
Publications
The 3 Ships: Inspirational Passages for Educators. Book Baby, July 2021.
The 3 Ships: Relationships, Leadership and Partnerships. Book Baby, July 2020.
Developing Our Next Superintendents. Board & Administrator. April 2020: page 2 & 8.
Recent Presentations
Leading a School Community Through Crisis and Tragedy.
American Association of School Administrators National Conference, February 2026.
Effective Communications Skills, Sharpening Your Saw, Lifestyles Inventory.
Idaho Association of School Administrators Project Leadership. October 2025.
Successful Transition Planning for Incoming School Administrators.
Washington Association of School Administrator’s Summer Conference. June 2024.
The 3 Ships: Relationships, Leadership and Partnerships.
Montana OPI State Summer Conference Keynote. June 2024.
Randy L. Russell, Ph.D.
www.randyrussell.org
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/randylrussell/
randyrussellconsulting@gmail.com
C 509.701.4947
Behind every successful school district is a strong, trusting, and unified relationship between the School Board and the superintendent. This engaging session explores the essential elements that create high-functioning governance teams, including communication, trust, role clarity, shared vision, and effective leadership during both calm and challenging times.
Building Leadership Pipelines Through District-University Partnerships
Location: 420
Rachel Kamnkhwani
Boise State University
Jenny Tellez
Boise State University
Jenny Tellez
Boise State University
District-university partnerships can strengthen Idaho’s leadership pipelines through collaborative, practice-centered preparation models. This session highlights Boise State Educational Leadership partnerships and shares practical strategies for developing, retaining, and supporting school leaders who can foster thriving schools, sustainable leadership cultures, and strong community connections across Idaho.
Conflict Resolution in the Workplace
Location: 120 B
BARBARA GINSBERG
Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Barbara Ginsberg has been representing school and community college districts, and public agencies in all aspects of employment & labor matters and education law for over thirty years. She is an expert in educational leadership, communication practices, and employee performance management, and regularly provides professional development training to administrators and aspiring leaders throughout the nation. She serves as chief negotiator for agencies in collective bargaining with certificated/certified, classified, and police/safety units, and is experienced in both traditional and interest-based bargaining methods. Other areas of her practice include: workplace investigations (including allegations of harassment and discrimination), statutory and negotiated leave issues, disability accommodation issues, reductions in force, student and employee privacy matters, search and seizure and other constitutional issues, policy/procedure review and development, hiring practices, employment contracts, administrative hearings, and federal and state civil litigation. Her firm also provides legal advice and representation on special education matters, facilities and construction matters, student discipline, and other areas of interest to school districts.
Prior to representing school districts, Ms. Ginsberg spent seven years as a legal advocate for public and private employee unions and served as a Deputy City Attorney. Prior to her legal career she was an elementary/middle/high school teacher and also served in the U.S. Navy. Her husband's and Navy veteran son's careers have brought her to Idaho, where she is a licensed attorney, and she looks forward to assisting school district leaders in creating rewarding work and educational environments for employees and students.
To maintain a cooperative and harmonious work environment, administrators must be able to effectively address conflicts that occur between employees in the workplace. Gain a greater understanding of the common catalysts that lead to conflict, your obligations to take action, and learn protocols for diffusing, mediating, and resolving workplace conflicts.
From Reactive Leadership to Proactive Systems: Using CALM to Support Schools
Location: 410 C
Joseph Hally
New Plymouth School District
Joe Hally is an education leader and consultant with experience as a teacher and school administrator in Idaho public education. Through Administrator Avenue, Joe supports school leaders and districts by helping build practical systems that strengthen leadership, communication, staff support, and day-to-day school operations. His work focuses on helping administrators feel more prepared, organized, and confident as they lead through the many demands of school leadership.
School leaders often face repeated challenges in behavior, communication, staff support, and consistency. This session introduces CALM in Leadership and CALM in Systems as practical frameworks for moving from reactive problem-solving to proactive leadership systems that support students, staff, families, and administrators.
Idaho Rural Schools Update
Location: 110 A/B
Heather Williams
IASA & Idaho Rural Schools Association
Get the latest on rural education from the Idaho Rural Schools Association. This session will provide an overview of current issues facing rural schools, updates on state and federal legislation, advocacy efforts, and key insights from member districts. Learn about emerging challenges, opportunities, and priorities impacting Idaho's rural communities.
Recognizing Multilingual Excellence: Implementing the Seal of Biliteracy in Idaho Schools
Location: 410A/B
Danyelle Quincy-Davis
Brittney Gehrig
Many Idaho schools are unaware of the Seal of Biliteracy and Global Seal opportunities. This session equips leaders with practical steps to implement and expand biliteracy recognition programs. Participants will learn key differences, benefits, and strategies to promote multilingualism and increase student access to college and career-ready credentials.
The Voice You Leave Behind: How You Show Up is What Remains
Location: 120 A
Vikki Lange
Lange Advisory Group
Vikki Lange is a lighthouse speaker, author, and Everything DiSC-certified corporate trainer based in Boise, Idaho. As founder of Lange Advisory Group, she helps leaders, educators, and teams reconnect with the conviction that built them in the first place.
Her signature session, The Voice You Leave Behind: How You Show Up is What Remains, draws on her proprietary Awaken-Define-Strengthen framework to guide audiences from second-guessing to steady, decisive leadership. The talk has earned standout marks from school administrator audiences 100% rated the session valuable, 100% would rebook, and 95.2% called it inspiring.
Through Lange Advisory Group, Vikki delivers DiSC-based corporate training to organizations across education, sales, and association leadership. Her forthcoming book, The Voice You Leave Behind (January 2027), expands the keynote into a full leadership playbook.
She lives in Boise and is honored to bring this work home to Idaho's superintendents and educators.
Every leader has a default under pressure. Some override their first instinct, some freeze. In this session, Vikki Lange shows administrators how to recognize their pressure pattern, trust the instinct they were trained to second-guess, and lead with steady conviction when the stakes and the noise are highest.
The World Needs You, Not Your Exhaustion
Location: 110 C/D
Stacey Hill-Perez
After 20+ years as an educator, mom, mental health champion, and all-around people pleaser, Stacey earned a really long rest. Her “prize” was 5 long years in bed at the mercy of chronic fatigue, no longer being of use to anyone.
Now she is back on her feet as a life coach, podcaster, and speaker sharing with the world the value of knowing and working from our own place of energetic power. Authentic energy doesn’t just preserve your energy, it magnifies your energy. It’s time to know how you can do better, better.
This session delivers educators and community leaders a sustainable approach to leadership and impact. Participants are provided practical strategies for accessing individual strengths, improving emotional regulation, and exploring personal energy reserves, They'll also be empowered to take attainable steps towards a healthier body and mind.
Tuesday, August 4, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm
CLOSING KEYNOTE SESSION: MERV JENKINS - To the Beat of Leadership
Ballroom (100)
Sponsored by Renaissance
Leadership is rarely a straight path. It carries rhythms of triumph, challenges, improvisation, and growth—much like music. In To the Beat of Leadership: A Story of High and Low Notes, Dr. Mervin Jenkins shares his journey as both an educator and hip-hop artist to highlight the powerful lessons that emerge when life’s high notes meet its inevitable lows.
Through storytelling, real-world experiences, and the universal language of music, Dr. Jenkins unpacks how leaders can find their rhythm, adapt to changing tempos, and turn setbacks into opportunities for growth. Attendees will explore the parallels between the creative process and leadership practice, discovering how authenticity, resilience, and vision can inspire those around them.
Participants will leave with strategies to:
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Recognize and embrace the “low notes” as part of authentic leadership.
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Lead with creativity and adaptability in dynamic environments.
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Foster connection and inspire others by finding and sharing their unique voice.
Whether you are leading in education, business, or community spaces, this session will challenge you to hear the beat of your own leadership and remind you that even in the dissonance, a new verse is waiting to begin.
BOISE CENTRE ON THE GROVE, BOISE, ID MAP of THE GROVE
To register for credit through NNU visit this link EDLD53791 IASA Summer Conference 2026
IASA is proud to partner with Pictures with Class for our award and candid photography services. Contact Scott at 541-429-0468 if you would like more information about their services for your school.Fall 2026
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