Disinfection in a COVID-19 World
Christopher Truitt, Chief Science Officer, GermBlast
This session will cover best practices in cleaning, disinfection, and technology to control the spread of disease-causing microorganisms in the school environment.
Supporting Community Through a Trauma-Informed Lens During COVID-19
Niloy Gangopadhyay, Director, Special Populations, Texas Education Agency
The concern and energy around student and staff mental health and emotional well-being is at its highest level. This session will review the idea of trauma and its impact, trauma-informed school community practices, and educator wellness to support school systems during the pandemic.
Meeting the Social Emotional Needs of Staff During a Pandemic
Brad Hunt, Superintendent, Coppell ISD
Angie Applegate, Assistant Superintendent, Coppell ISD
Kristen Streeter, Assistant Superintendent for Administrative Services, Coppell ISD
Taking care of a district’s staff is more important than ever during these challenging times. Coppell ISD will share training and strategies that are aligned to social and emotional learning to support the needs of staff in order to sustain a successful work environment.
A Focus on Comprehension Using Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning
Kay Wijekumar, Professor, Texas A&M University-College of Education & Human Development
Mary Bowman, Executive Director, Grand Prairie ISD
Javier Garza, Principal, Keller Elementary School, Texas A&M University-College of Education & Human Development
Julie Owens, Research Specialist School Coordinator, Texas A&M University-College of Education & Human Development
Learn how schools maintained the academic focus on comprehension through web-based tools customized for each school context. Participants will hear from two school leaders on how they transitioned comprehension instruction using the Knowledge Transformation Framework. Participants will focus on planning, leading teaching and assessment, and reflecting during the pandemic.
Thought Leader Session: Strategies to Address the Emotional Issues Arising from Social Isolation
Ruby Payne, CEO, aha! Process, Inc.
This session will focus on re-engagement after the pandemic is contained. Re-engagement will require emotional connections and meaning. Hear from best-selling author, Ruby Payne, about the “emotional tells” the body gives, the tools needed for brain/emotional development — particularly for adolescents — and gain some tools for re-engaging “lost” students.
