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Wednesday, June 4
 

11:00am CDT

Innovate & Elevate: Empowering Schools Through Innovation and Collaboration
Wednesday June 4, 2025 11:00am - 2:00pm CDT
Join Arkansas Schools of Innovation for a collaborative pre-conference session on fostering student agency, engaging communities, and designing dynamic learning environments that empower both students and educators. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, gain practical strategies and fresh insights to drive meaningful change in your school community.

đź“… Date: June 4
đź“Ť Location: Joe T. Robinson High School Champion Center 21501 Cantrell Rd Little Rock, AR 72223
⏳ RSVP Deadline: May 23
đź”— Save your spot here: Pre-Conference RSVP
Lunch is included, so be sure to register by May 23!


Speakers
KH

Kelly Hankins

Learning Design & Innovation Coach, Office of Innovation for Education
As I moved through the ranks in education, I became aware that education could look different for our students and teachers. Innovation is a passion for me and I love to think outside the box and solve problems. I enjoy working with Schools of Innovation in Arkansas and learning from... Read More →
Wednesday June 4, 2025 11:00am - 2:00pm CDT
Joe T. Robinson High School 21501 Cantrell Rd #10, Little Rock, AR 72223, USA

3:00pm CDT

Innovation Caucus 2025: AI in Education – Connecting Minds, Shaping the Future
Wednesday June 4, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Join us for a dynamic and interactive Innovation Caucus focused on the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in Education. This year’s session is designed as an open forum where educators, technologists and innovators can engage in meaningful conversations, exchange ideas, and share best practices on integrating AI into teaching, learning, and institutional operations.
Through collaborative discussions and knowledge-sharing, participants will explore topics such as personalized learning, ethical AI implementation, data-driven decision-making, and the evolving role of educators in an AI-enhanced world. Whether you’re actively using AI in your work or just beginning to explore its potential, this caucus offers a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded peers, gain new insights, and contribute to shaping the future of AI in education.
Bring your experiences, questions, and curiosity—let’s innovate together!

Speakers
avatar for Austin Eubanks

Austin Eubanks

Research and Analytics Programmer, U of A - Office of Innovation for Education
After graduating out of Valley View in Jonesboro, I spent six-and-a-half years in the United States Marine Corps (first as an infantryman, then as a formal marksmanship instructor). I then began honing my expertise in research methodology, statistics, and human behavior at the University... Read More →
Wednesday June 4, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Rock Island I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA
 
Thursday, June 5
 

8:15am CDT

Welcome Keynote
Thursday June 5, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Thursday June 5, 2025 8:15am - 9:15am CDT
Rock Island Ballroom 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

9:15am CDT

Innovation Bursts
Thursday June 5, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am CDT
Thursday June 5, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am CDT
Rock Island Ballroom 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

10:00am CDT

The Executive Edge: Preparing Students for Success
Thursday June 5, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Join Sonora Elementary, a School of Innovation, as we share our journey of increasing student efficacy and achievement through intentional practices that support both academic and executive functioning growth. Discover how we integrate executive function instruction, the Learning Pit framework, and daily Morning Meetings with soft starts to foster a growth mindset, build confidence, and develop the skills students need to thrive.
Participants will explore:
  • Executive Function Development: Practical strategies for teaching students to plan, organize, and self-regulate their learning.
  • The Learning Pit: Guiding students through productive struggle to embrace challenges and achieve deeper understanding.
  • Daily Morning Meetings with Soft Starts: Creating safe, engaging, and purposeful routines that set a positive tone for learning and connection each day.
Learn how these innovative practices work together to empower students, build collective teacher efficacy, and drive measurable increases in student achievement. Leave with actionable ideas and tools to implement in your school community.
Speakers
avatar for Regina Stewman

Regina Stewman

Principal, Springdale School District
I am the principal of Sonora Elementary in Springdale, Arkansas. We just finished our inaugural year! Prior to that I was principal for 9 years at Lee Elementary School - in the same district. I have also served as a teacher and administrator in Bentonville, Arkansas & Glendale... Read More →
avatar for Shelbi Raines

Shelbi Raines

GT Facilitator, Springdale Public School District
I love all things enrichment and creativity!
avatar for Lindsay Hennarichs

Lindsay Hennarichs

Assistant Principal
Thursday June 5, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am CDT
Rock Island I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

10:15am CDT

Beyond the Seat at the Table: Meaningful Participation in IEP Meetings LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
IEP meetings can feel overwhelming, but general educators play a critical role in shaping student success. This session will provide practical strategies for general education teachers to actively contribute to IEP meetings with confidence and clarity while fostering a classroom that supports all learners. Participants will explore effective collaboration techniques, ways to align instruction with IEP goals, and approaches to ensure students with disabilities thrive in general education settings. Whether you're a classroom teacher or an administrator, this session will empower you with actionable steps to strengthen your role.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Huffmaster

Lisa Huffmaster

Inclusive Education Specialist, DESE Office of Special Education
avatar for Joel Brown

Joel Brown

State Personnel Development Program Advisor, Office of Innovation for Education
With over a decade in education, I have dedicated my career to empowering students and educators through innovation. My journey began teaching 7th–12th grade science at an alternative school in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, before making my way up the I-55 and I-49 corridors, eventually... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Two Rivers 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

10:15am CDT

Empowering Teacher Impact Throughout Outstanding Learning Space Design LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Discover how exceptional learning space design can elevate teacher impact and student success! In this dynamic and interactive session, we’ll explore how intentional layouts, innovative tools, and flexible designs empower teachers to create engaging and effective learning experiences. Packed with high-energy insights and actionable strategies, you’ll leave equipped to transform classrooms into inspiring spaces that amplify teaching potential and nurture outstanding learning outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Robert Dillon

Robert Dillon

Featured Speaker, Innovative School Designs
Dr. Robert Dillon has served as a thought leader in education over the last twenty years as a teacher, principal, and director of innovation. Dr. Dillon has a passion to change the educational landscape by building excellent engaging schools for all students. Dr. Dillon serves on... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Junction I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

10:15am CDT

Transformative Leadership: The Secret to Increasing Employee Morale LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
How we choose our words and the method by which we convey them play a significant role in shaping the culture within an organization. When the driving force behind the culture is love, our interactions with team members are characterized by humility, empathy, and compassion above all else.  Leaders must take the initiative to express gratitude, recognize the efforts put in by team members, and highlight their successes. Such actions not only boost morale but also cultivate a positive work environment where individuals feel valued and respected. A key aspect of fostering a culture of love within an organization involves prioritizing the personal and professional growth of team members. By providing continuous coaching, unwavering support, and constructive feedback with a compassionate approach, leaders have the power to instill confidence and bolster the self-efficacy of their team members. In doing so, morale is further enhanced as individuals feel empowered and supported in their ongoing journey of self-improvement and development. For leaders looking to implement these principles effectively, it is essential to equip themselves with practical insights and tools aimed at bolstering employee morale. By embracing techniques designed to nurture a culture of love within the workplace, leaders can create an environment where team members thrive and are motivated to achieve their full potential.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Holmes

Jessica Holmes

Jessica Holmes is an author, speaker, and educator with two master’s degrees in leadership from the University of Arkansas at Monticello and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. She’s a licensed administrator and business... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Rock Island VI-VII 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

11:30am CDT

Lunch & General Session LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 11:30am - 1:30pm CDT
Thursday June 5, 2025 11:30am - 1:30pm CDT
Rock Island Ballroom 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

1:45pm CDT

Coloring Inside the Lines (But With Glitter!)
Thursday June 5, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
You’re a passionate, creative educator—someone who thrives on engaging students in ways that go beyond the textbook. But then... the curriculum guide lands on your desk like a rulebook from the teaching gods, filled with standards, objectives, and (gasp) required assessments. How do you keep your unique spark alive while staying within the “official” lines?
In this lively and interactive session, we’ll explore how to embrace the structure of your curriculum without letting it box you in. Think of it like coloring inside the lines—but using neon colors, glitter pens, and maybe even a little artistic rebellion. We’ll discuss ways to sneak in creativity while still checking all the necessary boxes, blending standards with storytelling, movement, and real-world connections that make learning unforgettable.
And this isn’t just for classroom teachers! Administrators, presenters, and superintendents—this is for you too. Whether you're leading professional development, crafting district-wide policies, or presenting to educators, the balance between structure and creativity applies at every level. We’ll explore how leadership can encourage innovation while maintaining consistency, how PD sessions can feel engaging and informative, and how to model the very creativity we want to inspire in our schools.
Through engaging activities, real-life hacks, and a little rule-bending (the fun kind!), you’ll leave with fresh ideas for injecting personality into your teaching, leading, or presenting—while still keeping the curriculum police happy. Whether you're a veteran educator looking for a creativity boost or a leader aiming to inspire, this session will help you reclaim the joy of education without losing sight of the guidelines.
Come ready to brainstorm, laugh, and rediscover the magic of making learning yours.   
Let’s turn “required” into remarkable—see you there!


Speakers
avatar for Kristi Everhart

Kristi Everhart

Classroom Teacher/Team Lead, Lockhart ISD
Kristi Everhart is an accomplished educator with a rich background in teaching, spanning 16 years in the classroom and over 20 years of individual/small group instruction. Her dedication to unique approach to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments has made her a... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Rock Island I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

1:45pm CDT

Cultivating Stronger Teams: Strategies for Better Conversations & Collaboration LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Great teams don’t just happen—they’re grown! In this interactive session, you’ll gain practical strategies to enhance collaboration, improve group dynamics, and lead more productive conversations. Learn how to foster trust, navigate difficult discussions, and create a culture where every voice is heard. Using research-based strategies from Adaptive Schools, we’ll explore how small shifts in communication and facilitation can have a big impact on team effectiveness. Whether you’re leading meetings, supporting professional learning communities, or simply wanting to work better with others, this session will equip you with tools to take your teams to the next level. Come experience these strategies in action and leave inspired to grow your team’s potential!
Speakers
KH

Kelly Hankins

Learning Design & Innovation Coach, Office of Innovation for Education
As I moved through the ranks in education, I became aware that education could look different for our students and teachers. Innovation is a passion for me and I love to think outside the box and solve problems. I enjoy working with Schools of Innovation in Arkansas and learning from... Read More →
avatar for Chrissy Waldhoer

Chrissy Waldhoer

Project Manager - CCFAL, Office of Innovation for Education
After seven years in the classroom, Chrissy joined the Office of Innovation for Education to have a greater impact on education. She is passionate about students being the focus of learning and creating a learning environment that supports students. She now leads the charge in the... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Junction I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

1:45pm CDT

Students as Leaders: Elevating Student Leadership LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Encouraging student leadership is crucial for developing well-rounded individuals and fostering a positive school environment. By providing opportunities for students to lead, we empower them to take ownership of their learning, build essential life skills like communication and collaboration, and contribute meaningfully to their community. This not only benefits the students themselves but also strengthens the school as a whole by creating a more engaged, responsible, and student-driven atmosphere.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Amy L. Holland

Dr. Amy L. Holland

Educator, Bentonville Schools
I am originally from Arkansas, WOO PIGS! I graduated from the University of Arkansas majoring in Elementary Education. I later obtained a Master's from the University of Phoenix specializing in Curriculum & Instruction. Currently, I am working on my doctorate in E-Learning from Northcentral... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm CDT
Rock Island VI-VII 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

3:00pm CDT

Advanced for All: Moving to an Advanced Curriculum LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Looking at curricula within a school from an advanced student perspective, but with the mindset that all learners deserve a challenging curriculum. Our school shifted to advanced classes for all students based on the belief that every student deserves access to a challenging and enriching curriculum. This model fosters a growth mindset, encourages collaboration among diverse learners, and cultivates a culture of high expectations for all.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Amy L. Holland

Dr. Amy L. Holland

Educator, Bentonville Schools
I am originally from Arkansas, WOO PIGS! I graduated from the University of Arkansas majoring in Elementary Education. I later obtained a Master's from the University of Phoenix specializing in Curriculum & Instruction. Currently, I am working on my doctorate in E-Learning from Northcentral... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Rock Island VI-VII 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

3:00pm CDT

AI as a thought partner LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
AI is everywhere, but how do you make it actually useful? This session cuts through the noise and offers a practical approach to AI that fits into your daily life. We’ll explore the strengths and weaknesses of different AI tools and introduce a simple, repeatable method for making AI work for you through small, daily experiments. With the three-prompt challenge, you’ll learn how using AI for a professional task, a personal curiosity, and something completely random each day can build an intuitive habit that enhances creativity and problem-solving. Whether you're looking to boost productivity or just have fun seeing what AI comes up with, this session will give you a low-effort, high-impact way to make AI a useful part of your life. (And if the universe sees fit to grant us stable Wi-Fi, we might even put it to the test in real time!)
Speakers
avatar for Austin Eubanks

Austin Eubanks

Research and Analytics Programmer, U of A - Office of Innovation for Education
After graduating out of Valley View in Jonesboro, I spent six-and-a-half years in the United States Marine Corps (first as an infantryman, then as a formal marksmanship instructor). I then began honing my expertise in research methodology, statistics, and human behavior at the University... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Junction I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

3:00pm CDT

Nurturing Teachers and Growing Students with AI Tools in the Classroom LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
In this interactive breakout session, educators will explore how AI tools, particularly Diffit, can streamline lesson planning, personalize instruction, and enhance student engagement. With a focus on practical application, participants will discover how AI can save time while generating high-quality, differentiated classroom activities tailored to various learning levels.
The session will begin with a brief introduction to AI in education, highlighting its potential to reduce teacher workload and support diverse learners. Attendees will then dive into Diffit, a powerful tool designed to instantly adapt content for different reading levels, create comprehension questions, and generate engaging learning activities. Through live demonstrations and hands-on practice, participants will learn how to integrate Diffit into their existing curriculum seamlessly.

Beyond Diffit, the session will introduce additional AI-powered resources that can assist with lesson planning, formative assessments, and interactive student engagement. Educators will leave with actionable strategies and ready-to-use AI-generated materials, empowering them to bring fresh, efficient, and engaging activities into their classrooms immediately.

Speakers
avatar for Ciara Cole

Ciara Cole

Instructional Coach, PULASKI County Special School District
Thursday June 5, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Rock Island I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

3:00pm CDT

What Trauma Feels Like and Why Educators Should Care LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Join Dr. Kathy Pillow-Price as she shares her personal
experience with trauma and explores its impact on helping professionals like
educators. Learn to identify and address burnout, compassion fatigue, and
secondary trauma. Gain practical strategies for self-care, building resilience,
and supporting others. This session equips participants with tools to reduce
stress, foster healing, and enhance well-being while navigating the challenges
of the trauma-informed caring profession of education.
Speakers
avatar for Kathy Pillow-Price

Kathy Pillow-Price

School Board Member and Managing Director, Beebe School District; UA ECEP
Dr. Kathy Pillow-Price is the Director of the University of Arkansas' Early Care and Education Projects and a nationally recognized leader in early childhood education. She brings extensive experience in executive leadership, program management, and building statewide networks. Dr... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm CDT
Two Rivers 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

4:15pm CDT

E-Sports Creative League: Bridging Gaming with Learning Standards LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 4:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
Dive into the intersection of gaming and education with "E-Sports Creative League: Bridging Gaming with Learning Standards." Explore how e-sports can align with educational standards and curriculum objectives, creating meaningful learning experiences for students. Discover the E-Sports Creative League program and curriculum, designed to integrate gaming into the educational landscape while meeting learning standards. Learn how gaming experiences can promote critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Join us to explore how e-sports can bridge the gap between gaming and academic standards.ECL is turning Gamers into Game Creators!
Speakers
MN

Marcos Navas

Founder, Hands on Coding,Latinosincoding.org
Thursday June 5, 2025 4:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
Rock Island I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

4:15pm CDT

More Than The Curriculum: A System of School Wide Learning Skills LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 4:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
Schools must create systems that explicitly teach and assess 21st-century skills—Agency, Written and Oral Communication, Knowledge and Thinking, and Collaboration—to ensure students graduate ready to navigate college, careers, and life.
Join Dr. Jeff Hernandez, as he shares proven strategies for integrating these essential skills into daily instruction and assessment. Drawing from real-world experience and the success of Rogers New Technology High School—ranked 6th in Arkansas by U.S. News & World Report—this session will provide practical frameworks for developing a school-wide approach that empowers students to take ownership of their learning.
Participants will explore how shared leadership and accountability structures can drive meaningful change in schools. Dr. Hernandez will outline systems that support collaborative decision-making among administrators, teachers, and students while ensuring high expectations and continuous improvement. Through real-life examples, hands-on strategies, and interactive discussions, attendees will leave with actionable steps to transform instruction and assessment in their schools.
Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or district leader, this session will give you the tools to move beyond traditional instruction and build a future-ready learning environment where all students thrive. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to cultivate skills that truly prepare students for the world beyond the classroom!

Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jeff Hernandez

Dr. Jeff Hernandez

Principal, Rogers New Tech High School
Thursday June 5, 2025 4:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
Rock Island VI-VII 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

4:15pm CDT

Roundtable Session LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 4:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
Thursday June 5, 2025 4:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
Junction I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

4:15pm CDT

Virtuating: A Guide to Engaging Virtual Facilitation LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 4:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
Are you looking for ways to make your virtual meetings more engaging, fun, and productive.  The Office of Innovation for Education has spent the last 5 years perfecting the art of Virtuating (Virtual Facilitation).  Through focus groups, communities of practice, and office and team meetings OIE has come to some conclusions about how to keep the black square of zoom or AI generated profile pictures from rearing their heads when you are presenting on screen.  We know how hard it is to make sure that all parties don't feel involved and we want to share what we know.  Come and join in (on this completely virtual session) with some tips, tricks, and tangible tools to take home and begin Virtuating like a pro.
Speakers
avatar for Chrissy Waldhoer

Chrissy Waldhoer

Project Manager - CCFAL, Office of Innovation for Education
After seven years in the classroom, Chrissy joined the Office of Innovation for Education to have a greater impact on education. She is passionate about students being the focus of learning and creating a learning environment that supports students. She now leads the charge in the... Read More →
avatar for Joel Brown

Joel Brown

State Personnel Development Program Advisor, Office of Innovation for Education
With over a decade in education, I have dedicated my career to empowering students and educators through innovation. My journey began teaching 7th–12th grade science at an alternative school in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, before making my way up the I-55 and I-49 corridors, eventually... Read More →
Thursday June 5, 2025 4:15pm - 5:15pm CDT
Virtual Only

7:00pm CDT

Karaoke LIMITED
Thursday June 5, 2025 7:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
Thursday June 5, 2025 7:00pm - 9:00pm CDT
Embassy Suites by Hilton Little Rock 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA
 
Friday, June 6
 

7:15am CDT

Team Time & Light Breakfast
Friday June 6, 2025 7:15am - 8:15am CDT
Friday June 6, 2025 7:15am - 8:15am CDT
Rock Island Ballroom 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

8:15am CDT

General Session
Friday June 6, 2025 8:15am - 8:45am CDT
Friday June 6, 2025 8:15am - 8:45am CDT
Rock Island Ballroom 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

9:00am CDT

Apples and oranges: Best approaches in working with heritage speakers
Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Heritage speakers frequently have characteristics that differ from those of second language learners and thus require different pedagogical approaches. This talk covers questions such as these: What are some typical linguistic, affective, and academic profiles of heritage speakers?  How can we determine appropriate curricular goals, instructional approaches, and placement procedures? And what can instructors do when a separate heritage speaker course is not possible and a classroom contains a mix of “apples” and “oranges”? The goal is to best serve the linguistic and affective needs of heritage speakers.
Speakers
avatar for Kim Potowski

Kim Potowski

Professor, University of Illinois at Chicago
Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Rock Island VI-VII 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

9:00am CDT

Envision the Future LIMITED
Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
In our session, we will present our self-paced Envision program, which we offer for grades 6-8 at Lonoke Middle School. Envision is a teacher-guided program that puts students in the driver's seat of their education. Teachers are here to guide, hold students accountable, and assist as needed.
To be successful in Envision, students must be self-motivated learners who can work independently. Students progress through the program using a grade-level pacing guide as a tool, at a pace that allows them to master the content. They may demonstrate mastery before their peers or may need a few extra class days to master a particular skill. Either way, students have access to collaborate with their peers and teachers as they master the content and then move on to the next skill.
A major benefit of the Envision program is its accessibility. Students receive a login to the website, where they can access all of their materials. Since it’s an online platform, students can log in from any computer, anywhere, at any time. Each student is assigned a mentor who meets with them at least once per week to discuss goals, progress, programs of study, pacing, and any support they may need.To facilitate the process, all students will explore possible career options and create a career plan. 
Flex Days are something our students look forward to and work towards. Students who are working at or ahead of pace can attend essential classes such as art, PE, band, EAST, etc. This allows them to focus more deeply on their essential classes and produce projects that interest them or relate to potential career paths.
We would also like to present the growth our students demonstrate over the course of the year. Many students in the program experience growth of up to two grade levels, as they are able to move at their own pace and challenge themselves.
Students will be joining us during our presentation. Here is what they have to say about our Envision program:
“The Envision program has helped me understand things better than I would in a traditional classroom. It has also allowed me to work at my own pace and redo assignments I struggled with. Some opportunities that have opened up for me include the chance to improve my grades and have free time to focus on work for other classes once I finish my Envision tasks. My learning has improved because I can better understand lessons and revisit any videos or past assignments if I’m struggling with something. My motivation continues to improve, and I’m not only learning more but also developing greater independence!”
Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Rock Island I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

9:00am CDT

PBIS systems in action #MESAllIn with Thrive Arkansas LIMITED
Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
As a lower elementary school (grades PreK-2) in its 2nd year implementation of Thrive AR - PBIS, I endeavor to share the progress we are having since it's implementation.
Speakers
avatar for Anthony Jackson

Anthony Jackson

Assistant Principal, Monticello School District - Monticello Elementary School
I have served for 25 years in the field of Education.  I've taught Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade.  I'm currently the Assistant Principal at Monticello Elementary in Monticello, Arkansas.  I have a passion for students and learning and I really enjoy working with teachers... Read More →
Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am CDT
Two Rivers 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

9:00am CDT

Developing a Mindset for Change LIMITED
Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT
After exploring innovative ideas at the Innovation Rally, you may be wondering how to effectively implement change when you return home. This session will explore why change is often met with resistance, the different ways people respond to it, and how to support those who struggle with change. Participants will examine the four fundamentalist archetypes of resistance and learn strategies for addressing concerns while fostering collaboration. The session will conclude with a strategic planning process, equipping participants with practical tools to build momentum and sustain meaningful change in their school communities.
Speakers
avatar for Chrissy Waldhoer

Chrissy Waldhoer

Project Manager - CCFAL, Office of Innovation for Education
After seven years in the classroom, Chrissy joined the Office of Innovation for Education to have a greater impact on education. She is passionate about students being the focus of learning and creating a learning environment that supports students. She now leads the charge in the... Read More →
avatar for Joel Brown

Joel Brown

State Personnel Development Program Advisor, Office of Innovation for Education
With over a decade in education, I have dedicated my career to empowering students and educators through innovation. My journey began teaching 7th–12th grade science at an alternative school in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, before making my way up the I-55 and I-49 corridors, eventually... Read More →
Friday June 6, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT
Junction I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

10:15am CDT

Agency By Design - Practical Applications for Teachers LIMITED
Friday June 6, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Speakers
avatar for Shelly Poage

Shelly Poage

Principal, John Tyson Elementary
Mrs. Shelly Poage is a current principal at John Tyson Elementary School in Springdale, Arkansas. Mrs. Poage was chosen as the 2019 AAEA Arkansas Elementary Principal of the Year and the 2019 NAESP National Distinguished Principal Award. She earned her Doctorate degree from Harding... Read More →
Friday June 6, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Two Rivers 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

10:15am CDT

Call and Talk it Out: The Innovation of the Arkansas Teacher Support Helpline LIMITED
Friday June 6, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Teaching is more stressful than ever, with national and Arkansas statistics showing rising burnout, high turnover, and growing emotional strain. One innovative resource to help--not solve--this challenge is the Arkansas Teacher Support
Helpline, a confidential service where teachers and school staff can talk through stress "in the moment" with a peer with lived teaching experience trained in compassionate listening. This workshop explores why talking it out works and will demonstrate through roleplay how an ATSH peer listener may respond to an audience-selected situation.
Friday June 6, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Rock Island I-II 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

10:15am CDT

Heritage language teaching as critical language arts LIMITED
Friday June 6, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Heritage speakers are increasingly common in Spanish classrooms around the U.S. After reviewing some common profiles of heritage speakers and how are they linguistically and affectively different from second language students, we will examine why it is important for us to center our instruction in language arts to the greatest extent that students’ proficiency allows. The goal is for our Spanish programs to center the needs of heritage speakers and lead to their personal, academic, and linguistic development in ways that support social justice. We will examine several textbook activities to see how they can best be supportive of students' language arts development
Speakers
avatar for Kim Potowski

Kim Potowski

Professor, University of Illinois at Chicago
Friday June 6, 2025 10:15am - 11:15am CDT
Rock Island VI-VII 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

11:30am CDT

Lunch Speaker Series: Shaping Tomorrow - The Power of Educational Innovation LIMITED
Friday June 6, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking panel discussion, The State of Innovation in Education, as part of the OIE Speaker Series. This panel will spotlight dynamic leaders, visionaries, and changemakers from across the southeastern United States who are pushing the boundaries of education.
Our panelists will explore critical questions such as: What does innovation in education look like today? What factors catalyze meaningful change? What barriers exist, and how can they be overcome? Through shared stories, insights, and lessons learned, we’ll uncover the inspirations that drive these leaders to challenge the status quo and create transformative learning experiences.
Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, student, or lifelong learner, this session will provide fresh perspectives, practical ideas, and a deeper understanding of the evolving educational landscape.
Speakers
avatar for Brandon Lucius

Brandon Lucius

Executive Director, Arkansas Teacher Corps (University of Arkansas)
Brandon Lucius is the executive director of the Arkansas Teacher Corps, a program of the University of Arkansas that recruits, trains, and supports new teachers to serve in high-need schools in the Arkansas Delta. As an academic and practitioner, Brandon has coached and developed... Read More →
avatar for Stephen Nobles

Stephen Nobles

Governance & Flexibility Specialist, Clarke County School District
Friday June 6, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm CDT
Rock Island Ballroom 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA

12:30pm CDT

Closing remarks with Awards
Friday June 6, 2025 12:30pm - 1:15pm CDT
Friday June 6, 2025 12:30pm - 1:15pm CDT
Rock Island Ballroom 11301 Financial Centre Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72211, USA
 
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