1. hobbies and interests
2. reading

ALL SESSIONS WILL BE HELD AT CENTURY MIDDLE SCHOOL
LAKEVILLE JUNE 15- JUNE 18, 2015
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
100. Comprehension Strategies: A Guide for Purposeful Instruction
Julie Angermeyr
4,5
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
Back by popular demand: Capture interest and engage students in reading instruction as we delve into high interest picture books as
mentor texts. These texts are the basis for introducing, modeling, practicing, and assessing comprehension strategies. Strategy
instruction encourages students to think within and beyond text, apply knowledge within their independent reading and classroom
discussions, or when providing evidence of understanding. Each strategy lesson offers a detailed plan for instruction, student pages,
graphic organizers, lists of literature and informational mentor texts, and poetry. Lessons provide opportunities for students needing
support and provide challenges for students seeking enrichment. The lessons from the guide are aligned with the Common Core
Standards. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
101. My Favorite Apps for Elementary Students and How to Use Them in the Classroom
Brianna Buck
K-6
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
New session: Learn all about my favorite iPad apps and how to use them successfully in your classroom. I have been helping teachers
integrate technology into their classrooms for over 10 years. You will learn about apps for creation, practice and ones that will engage
your students in all subject areas. Come have fun and ready to explore. Bring your iPad if you have one! (This session meets the
Minnesota re-licensure requirement for technology.)
102. Managing Parent Behavior
Renee Carlson
PK-12
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
Back by Popular Demand: Regardless of how long you’ve been teaching, parent behaviors can be tricky. This session will offer you
practical strategies to manage some of the most common challenges you encounter with parents. We will also explore specific
techniques to navigate difficult phone conversations and troublesome emails. You will walk away from this session equipped and
empowered!
103. Calmer Classrooms
Gary Eustice
PK-12
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
Back from 2014: Traumatized students exist in all classrooms. Learn to recognize the early signs of emotional and behavioral
dysregulation and how to manage a classroom to prevent students from dissociating or melting down. Learn to see the problem
behaviors of students as regulation issues and how to respond and model as a calm regulated adult. (This session meets the
Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior or mental health.)
104. Curriculum Design and Delivery for the Digital Age
Jon Fila
PK-12
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
New session: Just putting your handouts and course materials online is not enough; careful consideration must be made to facilitate an
engaging experience for your learners. Learn about some simple changes you can make to your digital curriculum to impact student
learning. This session will also cover how various tools can help automate some tasks and give you more time to engage with your
students. Topics to be addressed are Blended Learning, Flipped Classroom and Online Learning. ! (This session meets the Minnesota
re-licensure requirement for technology.)
105. The Power of Visual Models: Intermediate Math
Shannon Gilmore
3-5
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
Back by popular demand: Visual models are powerful tools to improve understanding of math concepts and skills. This session focuses
on the progression of visual models from concrete to abstract in the intermediate math classroom. Participants will experience a variety
of visual models throughout the session to illustrate the importance of representing mathematical thinking. (This session meets the
Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
106. Vocabulary
Patti Greene
K-6
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
Students need implicit and explicit instruction in vocabulary development to improve comprehension. We will explore a bank of
strategies that can be implemented as a way to help students understand what they read. (This session meets the Minnesota relicensure requirement for reading.)
107. Strategies for Teaching Respectful Behavior
Louise Griffith
6-12
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
Strategies for Teaching Respectful and Responsible Behavior continues to be one of SORLA’s most popular sessions. Build more
positive teaching moments into your day! Experience more of why you went into education. Drawing on the Cooperative Discipline
model, you will leave this session with intervention strategies for the moment of misbehavior as well as encouragement strategies that
can redirect misbehavior and call forth innate strengths of children. The concepts are timeless, practical and life-giving to both student
and teacher and applicable to one’s life outside of the classroom. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for
behavior.)
108. Teaching K-3 Math with Algebra in Mind
Bob Hazen
K-3
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
Back by popular demand: Teach arithmetic with algebra in mind. Learn practical, lasting, multi-sensory ways to set up K-3 kids now for
later success in algebra. There are kid-tested, user-friendly math principles that unify elementary math across both grades and topics grand ideas that if learned in K-3 will help make sense of math all the way through high school. Learn how to have a high degree of
connectedness for you and your students with what is done with manipulatives, what is said with words, and what is written in symbols.
(This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
109. Addressing Mental and Emotional Health in Yourself and Your Students
Pam Keul, Tom Keul, M.D.,
Donna Draves & Mike Stapleton
PK-12
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
New session: Relax, breathe and laugh your way into summer by spending some time on the topic of mental health. Who is mentally
healthy? How can we recognize those who are in trouble mentally? What can we do to foster mental health in ourselves and others and
to obtain mental health support and help when that is needed? You'll leave this workshop with a mental health game plan for yourself
and your students. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for mental health.)
110. Are You with Me? Motivating Student Engagement Strategies
Sara Murr & Tawnya Ostigaard
5-9
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
Back from 2014: Keeping adolescents focused and alert during our lessons can be a challenge. In this session, you will learn how to
increase student engagement through brain friendly techniques such as purposeful movement, nutrition, and presentation. Get ready to
improve your students’ learning and assessment results through these highly interactive and energetic strategies. (This session meets
the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
111. CODI: Curriculum, Outcomes, Data, Intentionality!
Karen Sperl
PK
Monday, June 15, 8:30-11:30
New Session: The expectations for children as they enter kindergarten are high – in all developmental areas: cognition,
communication, motor, social-emotional-behavioral, and adaptive areas. This session will focus on Curriculum-based preschool
Outcomes across developmental domains, with Data collection tools and ideas to use with Intentionality in on-going assessment. There
will be opportunities to share ideas and learn from one another!
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
120. Mix It Up - Using Rhythm to Ramp Up Reading: Integrating the Arts to Help Children Learn to Read
Katherine Beecham & Jane Mason
K-4
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
Are you looking for new, innovative and practical strategies that really work when it comes to teaching reading? Motivate students to
read and help them focus by integrating musical activities and singing. Mix It Up! From classical to rap and beyond, come join us as we
broaden our horizons! (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
121. Twitter for Educators: Let’s Explore!
Kara Osmundson & Brianna Buck
K-12
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
Back from 2014: Twitter is increasingly being used as a way for educators to connect and share with one another. It is a powerful
personal professional development tool that will allow you to connect with other educators worldwide 24/7 to share ideas and
resources, ask questions, and build collective knowledge. In this interactive session, we will help you understand how Twitter works,
who to follow, how to engage in a tweet chat, and other tips to begin using Twitter. Bring your own device and let’s start tweeting! (This
session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for technology.)
122. Literacy Across Content: How to Teach Reading When You Don’t Teach Reading
Renae Busse
6-12
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
Literacy is certainly the buzz word in education today, and now all teachers are expected to teach literacy skills in their classrooms,
regardless of their content. But what does literacy really mean, and how do you apply it in your classroom? This session will explore
the definition of literacy and look at a variety of ways that it applies in every subject. This will be applicable to teachers of all content
areas. You will walk away from this session armed with many best practice literacy activities that will fit into all curriculum – from music,
art, and PE to science, social, and language arts. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
123. Playing Chess in a Hurricane
Gary Eustice
K-12
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
Back from 2014: Complex trauma affects a child’s ability to integrate sensory experiences, emotions and behavior. Learn how life
experiences change the brain, resulting in development of neurological problems that translate into storms in the classroom as
students struggle to regulate themselves. Learn to recognize mental illnesses and learning disabilities as symptoms of trauma. (This
session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for mental health.)
124.Google Apps Integration
Jon Fila
PK-12
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
See how to use the power of Google Apps to increase your curriculum's effectiveness. This session will cover Google Drive, YouTube,
Sites, Photos, Maps and more. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for technology.)
125. Nudging Yourself as an Educator: To Teach With a Sense of Urgency
Patti Greene
K-8
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
New Session: We should celebrate our intentions with our literacy practices. What if we look at what we are doing and then make a
commitment to nudge ourselves to do these things even better? After all, isn’t that what we expect of our students? Let’s look at
polishing, refining, and ramping up our literacy instruction through a lens of I am doing this…could I do this…? Explore opportunities
that incorporate researched best practices. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
126. Strategies for Teaching Respectful and Responsible Behavior
Louise Griffith
PK-5
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
Strategies for Teaching Respectful and Responsible Behavior continues to be one of SORLA’s most popular sessions. Build more
positive teaching moments into your day! Experience more of why you went into education. Drawing on the Cooperative Discipline
model, you will leave this session with intervention strategies for the moment of misbehavior as well as encouragement strategies that
can redirect misbehavior and call forth innate strengths of children. The concepts are timeless, practical and life-giving to both student
and teacher and also applicable to one’s life outside of the classroom. Be the change and be the bright shining light YOU are! (This
session addresses the behavior licensure requirement.)
127. Teaching Grades 3-6 Algebraically
Bob Hazen
3-6
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
Back by popular demand: Intermediate-level math can and should be the foundation for a smooth transition into a traditional algebra
course. There are specific, practical, lasting, seldom-taught math principles - kid-tested, user-friendly grand ideas - that reveal the unity
of math across both grades and topics, from the elementary years through algebra, trig, and the sciences. This principle-based focus
isn’t on tips and tricks but on teaching math so both teacher and student “get” this profound yet simple idea: math at every level
makes sense. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
128. Engaging Chemistry Students with Hands-On Manipulatives
Katie Koch-Laveen & Kaitlin Lee
6-12
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
New session: Many chemistry students struggle with the algebra skills needed to write formulas and balance equations. Students need
manipulatives to allow them to engage more of their senses to visualize formulas and equations. With ‘foldable’ Periodic Tables
students easily learn to write ions. Models of elements and their characteristics help students assemble a Periodic Table. These
activities allow students to work in groups learning together how formulas, equations and even the Periodic Table work. A classroom
set of all materials will be available for participants. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for
accommodation/modification.)
129. "Beyond Sound It Out and Read It Again:" Prompting Readers for Successful Word Recognition and Comprehension.
Rachel Gens & Julie McDonell
K-5
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
New session: As students are transitioning to independent reading, they will undoubtedly encounter words they don’t know and will
have breakdowns in their understanding of the text. As this occurs, the teacher should adopt the role of a coach. Skilled teachers are
able to provide the “perfect” prompt or in some cases, series of prompts, that will unlock the word or get the student back on track. In
this class, participants will explore the definition and purposes of coaching for word recognition and comprehension. Participants will
also learn a variety of prompts that activate three primary cueing systems (visual/graphophonic, structure/syntax, and
meaning/semantic) and explore when to use a specific or general prompt based on the needs of each particular student. Finally,
participants will learn how to use miscue analysis as a diagnostic tool to inform their coaching practices. (This session meets the
Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
130. Literacy, Language, Letter Lessons
Karen Sperl
PK
Monday, June 15, 12:30-3:30
Repeat session from 2014 – back by popular demand: Using PreK classroom themes, books, letters-of-the month, and puppetry, this
session will provide Early Childhood staff with LOTS of ideas to incorporate literacy, language, and letters (names and sounds) into
engaging lessons with preschool children. These ideas will help prepare PreK children for the rigor of kindergarten. Lessons include
book awareness, patterning, vocabulary development, phonemic awareness, and more! (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for reading.)
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
200. Whistling Vivaldi, by Claude M. Steele: Book Study
Erin Boltik
PreK-12
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
Social psychologist Claude M. Steele sheds new light on how pervasive stereotypes can actually influence behavior and performance,
and how these stereotypes, left unexamined, perpetuate themselves. As schools look at decreasing the achievement gap, Claude
Steele's groundbreaking research informs us of important ways we can change our practices to impact the change we are wanting in
our schools. Join me for a dialogue around this newer book and identify ways in which you see yourself and your school changing
practices to decrease the achievement gap! You may earn a total of 10 CEU’s for the work you do before coming to this session and
participation in the book discussion. For details, go to the Book Study Information link on the SORLA website. www.sorla.us (This
session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
201. Ten Most Influential Educational Topics in 2014-15
Brad Eustice
PK-12
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
New session: Attendees will be presented with 10-12 topics, pulled from current educational research, and deemed to have significant
impact on teaching, teachers or students. Attendees will rank each topic from 1-10 and the material presented in order of interest.
Special emphasis will be made to determine how the research information might be applied to day-to-day teaching methods and what
technologies may apply. Serious fun is expected, insights anticipated and thoughtful discussion encouraged. (This session meets the
Minnesota re-licensure requirement for technology.)
202. Struggling Readers: Ways to Intervene
Amy Faust Fraser
K-5
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
Returning from 2014: Wondering what else you can try with your struggling readers? In this session, we will address that question.
The answer may not be in a commercial kit or program, so we will spend our time learning how to scaffold struggling readers and
enable them to become independent and capable. Leave with a collection of well-rounded reading intervention strategies that can be
used by classroom teachers, interventionists, Title I teachers, special educators, and ESL teachers seeking to support struggling
readers. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification or reading.)
203. Guided Math for Intermediate Teachers
Shannon Gilmore
3-5
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
Back again by popular demand: This session focuses on math instruction to meet the needs of the wide range of learners in the
intermediate math classroom. Participants will experience a progression of lesson ideas for a variety of concepts, including
multiplication, place value and fractions/decimals. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for
accommodation/modification.)
204. Why Do They Do That? (and what we can do to help)
Jean Grech
PK-5
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
New session: Have you ever wondered why students rock back in their chairs, lay their heads on their desks while writing, sit on their
knees or continually wiggle in their chairs? Many of today’s children are actually exhibiting signs of developmental delays that are a
result of changes in modern life. These delays affect social, emotional and academic progress. This session will help you identify
behaviors that are indicators of development delays and provide neurodevelopmental activities to support these students AND are fun
to do. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior.)
205. There’s No Place Like Non-fiction: Embracing Informational Text as Readers
Patti Greene
K-5
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
What better way to honor students’ natural curiosity than to be immersed in informational texts? Publishers are making this genre
readily available for students. Now it’s our job to make those texts accessible in ways students understand them as readers. This is
evident in the MN ELA Standards. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
206. Using Google Apps to Improve Student Learning Part A
Jason Just
6-12
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
In this course we will explore how to use Gmail, Contacts, Calendar and Google Drive pieces like Docs and Forms to improve student
learning. Participants are encouraged to have a Google Gmail account prior to attending the course. (This session meets the Minnesota
re-licensure requirement for technology.)
207. Educating Trainman
Barbara Kavan, Stefan Kavan & Kelly Peterson
PreK-12
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
This session continues to be one of SORLA’s most popular sessions. The gift of Stefan and his story resulted in a mother-son
presentation sharing Stefan’s personal experiences as a young man with autism. In 2010 AAPC published their co-authored children’s
book, TRAINMAN, which focuses on social acceptance and developing friendships through special interests. Kelly Peterson will share
classroom interventions and proactive strategies for working with children on the autism spectrum. Our message is one of hope and
promise! (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
208. The Art and Science of Social Emotional Learning
Char Myklebust
K-12
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
This session will explore evidence-based curricula demonstrated to increase academic achievement, student engagement, and
empathy. Participants will experience and practice core lessons from the Hawn Foundation MindUP Program; designed to increase
focus and attention and to reduce student stress. Highlighted strategies are effective with regular and special education students alike.
This session incorporates positive psychology and the neuroscience of joy. The instructor is a consultant and trainer for the Hawn
Foundation and contributed to the development of MindUP, a program approved by the Collaborative for Social and Emotional Learning
(CASEL). (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior.)
209. Building Heroes/Blocking Bullies: The Story Approach To Bully Prevention
Kevin Strauss
PK-8
Tuesday, June 16, 8:30-11:30
While teachers and administrators work hard to establish plans and procedures to prevent school bullying, we also need to give
students some simple, effective tools to avoid, interrupt, or block bullies when they meet them in the halls. Learn easy techniques you
can teach and practice with your students as you "build heroes" who will stand up to bullies. Teach students how to "block bullies" and
keep kids safe. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior.)
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
220. EARTH without "ART" is just "EH":Inspiring Creativity and Innovation in our Schools
Erin Boltik
K-4
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
New session: Sir Ken Robinson believes that “education doesn’t need to be reformed—it need to be transformed.” The key to
transformation is to “put students in an environment where they want to learn and where they can naturally discover their true
passions.” Daniel Pink states that our future depends on having “artists in the room.” Educators and experts spend countless hours
talking about 21st century skills and need to prepare students for an uncharted future, but what programs and strategies are we
implementing that truly addresses this need? Hear about an innovative middle school talent development program, discover some of
the current theory and research around creativity, and try your hand at using creative thinking models that can be implemented into any
subject and ultimately build the capacity of your students to become more innovative and creative. (This session meets the Minnesota
re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
221. Literacy Across Content: How to Teach Reading When You Don’t Teach Reading
Renae Busse
K-5
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
From start to finish, this session will be filled with best-practice activities to help students build their literacy skills and become fully
engaged in the content and your lesson. We build on the 3 themes of Vocabulary, Summarizing, and Drawing Conclusions. As you
participate in the activities, we will explore how why and how the brain engages, and also look for ways to manipulate the activities to
meet the needs of your classroom. This is NOT a sit-and-get session. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for
reading.)
222. Fabulous Fluency Strategies
Amy Faust Fraser
K-5
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
Back by popular demand: Are you looking for fresh ideas to add to your fluency instruction repertoire? In this session, you will learn a
variety of effective strategies for teaching fluency, while at the same time build vocabulary and improve comprehension skills. You will
go away inspired and confident to teach fluency! *Please bring a fiction children’s book appropriate to your grade level with an
identifiable plot. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
223. Brain Gym for the Classroom
Jean Grech
K-12
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
New session: Today’s children encounter challenges in many different forms that may make learning more difficult. This session will
introduce Brain Gym movements that help facilitate optimal brain function for learning, testing and self-management. These “brain
tune-ups” are quick, easy and fun. Not only are they beneficial for students, but also for teachers! Please wear comfortable clothing
and bring a water bottle. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior.)
224. Small Group Strategy Instruction: Getting More Mileage out of Teaching and Learning
Patti Greene
K-6
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
Back by popular demand: Small-group strategy instruction has been associated with the term guided reading. It can stand on its own as
another way to meet the needs of your diverse learners. The small groups are flexible in membership and duration. After collecting and
analyzing data, groups are formed based on specific reading behaviors. The goal is for students to become secure independent
readers. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
225. Tips and Tools for Working With Grieving Students
Lisa Hansen
K-12
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
Back by popular demand: Learn what students understand about death according to their developmental age, learn common grief
reactions of children and teens and learn how grief for children/teens is different than it is for adults. Learn tips and tools for supporting
grieving children and teens at school. Examine the difference between depression and grief and why a grieving child can appear to
have trouble with attention. We will also discuss suicide awareness and best practices. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for mental health.)
226. Math Games to Supplement Any Math Curriculum
Bob Hazen
1-6
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
New session: The crucial skill of basic fact mastery isn’t an end in itself - it’s a means to an end. Students need basic math fact mastery
to successfully navigate the complex world we live in - making change, adding up numbers from a grocery trip, figuring tax and/or tips,
calculating area or perimeter for paint or trim. If basic fact mastery is a means to an end, then basic fact practice should also be a
means to an end - like having fun, winning a game, moving up in a tournament ranking. Learn practical games that can be used as a
significant part of any curriculum. Get more meaningful and memorable basic fact practice than just using flash cards or drill sheets.
Math games can provide the variety and motivation that engage the three key elements of memorization. (This session meets the
Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior or accommodation/modification.)
227. Using Google in the Classroom Part B
Jason Just
6-12
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
In this course we will explore Google Drive including Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms and Add-ons to improve student learning. Will look at
Google Chrome Extensions and use YouTube to create your own personal video site. Participants are encouraged to have a Google
Gmail account prior to attending the course. You need not take Part A to register for this session. (This session meets the Minnesota
re-licensure requirement for technology.)
228. Finger Tappers and Eye Rollers: Engaging Students Who Are Restless and Bored
Finger Tappers and Eye Rollers: Engaging Students Who Are Restless and Bored
Char Myklebust
K-12
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
This session provides educators with strategies to improve classroom engagement. Participants will learn the basic neuroscience
involved in helping students to engage, pay attention and to remember new learning. Through experiential activities, attendees will
discover their own individual styles to keep students interested and involved - even up to the last minute of class. Information discussed
in this session is based on the work of Eric Jensen, world-renowned brain-based learning author and trainer. The instructor is a
nationally certified Jensen trainer. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior.)
229. Building Responsible Listeners/Learners
Linda Pruden
K-12
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
Back by popular demand: Feel the magic of working with students who consistently listen both to you and to their peers, constantly
share their ideas, and unfailingly assume responsibility for understanding by asking clarifying questions! Create a safe classroom
environment where students value their own learning, as well as the learning of their peers. Initiate strategies that empower students to
assume responsibility for learning. Discuss how listening is a skill, not a behavior. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for accommodation/modification)
230. Lessons that Work! iPad Activities for K-3 Classrooms
Traci Radtke, Jennifer Schwebach,
K-3
Tuesday, June 16, 12:30-3:30
Cari Zoellner
New session: Not sure what elementary students can do using the iPad? Come see all the learning possibilities that your students can
do while using the iPads as a learning device in your classroom. In this session, we will share some of the learning projects and apps
we have used with our students for the past three years. Come join us to see how you can implement iPads while creating exciting
learning opportunities that your students can’t resist.To differentiate your instruction, please come with some project ideas that you
could create before you leave so you are ready to start your year. For example: life cycles, research topic, all about me, nouns, verbs,
etc. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for technology.)
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
300. Accommodations Toolbox for the AD/HD Student
Andrea Absey
K-4
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
Back by popular demand: Have you ever had students who just can’t seem to get it together? Have you ever been frustrated or
confused about how to help these students be more successful in school? Learn fun and practical ways to incorporate the latest in
brain-based research to not only benefit your attention-seeking students but also the rest of your class as well. Be prepared to laugh
and play! Successful, happy students come from successful, happy teachers! (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for behavior or accommodation/modification.)
301. Teaching Strategies That Encourage Inquiry and Active Engagement
Jodi Baker
PK-12
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
New session: Teachers can’t “make” students learn; learners construct their own meaning. But as thoughtful facilitators, teachers can
intentionally engage students more deeply in the learning process. In this session we will learn and practice teaching strategies to
encourage your students to think, inquire, process and reflect. With appropriate adaptations, these strategies can be used with students
of any age and can be applied in diverse settings across disciplines. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for
accommodation/modification.)
302. Implementing Elements of the Flipped Classroom
Rick Bell
K-8
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
How do you use your time with students? Have you ever wanted to spend more time with individuals or in small groups? The concepts
of Guided Math or Reader's/Writer's Workshop have collided with technology integration in creating the Flipped Classroom. Learn how
using videos as classroom lessons can free the teacher up to differentiate learning for all students. (This session meets the Minnesota
re-licensure requirement for technology.)
303. Optimizing Parent Communications
Renee Carlson
PK-12
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
New Session: Healthy teacher-parent relationships have an immeasurable impact on student learning. The key ingredient is effective
communication. This session is devoted to giving you tools and techniques that will maximize your success in communicating with
parents. You will create a “who, what, and how” plan for parent communication, learn how to help parents digest and accept difficult
truths, explore the power of asking the right questions and so much more. Regardless of your tenure, you will leave with new insights
and strategies that will optimize your parent relationships
304. Cyberbullying: A Classroom Endemic
Catherine DeBates
6-12
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
Back by popular demand: Bullying has reached new heights in recent years. Cyberbullying is the use of technology tools to target or
bully an individual, whether it be through text messaging, social networking sites, or other mobile and electronic applications. It can
happen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, non-stop. Learn how to provide parents, faculty, and students with the coping mechanisms to
transition through junior high and high school, not only academically, but socially. In this session, new approaches to pushing pause on
your students' addiction to connectivity will be discussed through case-studies and open discussions. This session will also discuss
proper documentation of cyberbullying. Help your students through this transitory time in their lives and learn how to prevent
cyberbullying in your school. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior or technology.)
305. Tools and Toys: Ways to Manage and Love Your Class
Amy Faust Fraser
K-5
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
Returning from 2014: Student management and classroom organization can be tricky. In this class we will cover dozens of practical
strategies for managing students effectively. These strategies will lead to a more organized and managed classroom that results in
more engaged students and effective learning time. Leave with the tools you need to create the learning environment you’ve always
wanted. This is a great class for new teachers to set your class up for success. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for behavior.)
306. Crucial Conversations: Intentional Talk in the Classroom
Beth Flottmeier & Caroline Linden
K-5
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
Returning from 2014: Student talk is essential in learning. Let's explore how to move beyond turn and talk strategies to build structures
for meaningful talk throughout the day. This session will help you move from teacher centered conversation to student led discussion
which will enhance student comprehension. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
307. Bucket Filling 101
Lisa Hansen
K-5
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
New session: Elementary students love the concept of Bucket Filling! This workshop will show you how to take the wildly popular
theme and use it to effectively build a positive social environment for your students. Incorporating this theme will proactively teach
students how to use conflict resolution skills which can help reduce tattling, social isolation and bullying, as well as help students make
and keep more friends. Students’ emotional safety positively impacts their readiness to learn. Sample classroom lessons will be
demonstrated through this interactive presentation. Participants will be able to take materials and implement a bucket filling classroom
in the fall. We will also discuss ways to keep your buckets full as you face the many demands of working in education. (This session
meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior.)
308. iPad Strategies That Work in 6-12 Classrooms
Kelli McCully
6-12
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
Your middle or high school classroom has iPads...now what? How can you use them most effectively to help students
learn? Classroom Instruction That Works identifies nine key categories of research-based instructional strategies that increase
student achievement. In this session, learn ideas for aligning iPad apps and activities with the “Marzano strategies” to maximize
student learning. Participants will explore high impact apps for 6-12 learners, experience classroom examples of model strategies, and
discuss practical implementation approaches with other 6-12 educators. Participants will be invited to contribute to and access a
resource list of Marzano-aligned apps. Bring an iPad. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for technology.)
309. Social and Emotional Challenges in Adolescence Grades 6-12
Kelly Peterson
6-12
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
Today’s children are struggling with record levels of anxiety, depression, and behavior disorders. This session is geared to help parents
and educators understand current youth trends and issues. Topics include: anxiety, depression, drug use, bullying and technology.
Participants will leave with strategies to promote positive mental health and the means to assist students in functioning more
successfully in a school environment. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for mental health.)
310. Classroom Help: Self Regulation, Ideas and Q and A with an Occupational Therapist
Colette Ryan
K-5
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
Adequate self-regulation is essential to the development of attention, control of emotions, and daily transitions. In this session, you will
receive ideas that will help your students improve learning by using strategies that can help with self regulation, sensory processing,
classroom environments, fine motor, gross motor, visual perception, self-care, organization - and anything else OT related. Ask
questions, problem solve, and gain new strategies that may be used with your students and classroom. Learn how even short bursts of
physical activity can enhance attention, memory, motivation and behavior. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for behavior or accommodation/modification.)
311. The Ins and Outs of Makerspaces
Scott Swanson
K-12
Wednesday, June 17, 8:30-11:30
New session: Makerspaces are collaborative spaces where people can gather to create, invent, and learn. It is here that students can
learn grit, growth mindset, design thinking and how to problem solve for 21st Century jobs that don't even exist yet. Makerspaces tend
to focus on a hands-on approach to the STEM fields. We'll talk about what a makerspace is, how to go about creating one in your
school, and some tools that I use in my own makerspace. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for technology.)
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
320. Refresher for Substitute Teachers
Andrea Absey
PK-12
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
When a substitute teacher is successful in the classroom, everyone benefits! Join us as you refine your skills, review effective teaching
and instructional strategies while sharing ideas with colleagues. Discuss and reflect on building community, classroom management
and discipline, common school policies, substitute survival kits and substituting in special education classrooms. Energize your spirit for
the upcoming school year. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior.)
321. One Hundred and One Websites to Energize Your Classroom
Rick Bell
K-8
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
This is an exciting time to be a teacher! Never, in the history of education, have teachers and students had such an abundance of free
tools and resources at their fingertips. Discover new websites and interactive tools you never knew you needed. Participants will have
time to explore a variety of web sites and receive support materials for classroom use. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for technology.)
322. Create Classroom Success: The Nurtured Heart Approach®
Pat Bethke
PreK-12
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
The Nurtured Heart Approach® continues to be a popular choice for our participants. Do challenging student behaviors tire you out? If
you’re looking for simple and proven strategies that WILL transform your classroom into a respectful and cooperative learning
environment, then this class is for YOU! Learn how to develop positive relationships with even the most trying students to turn around
their difficult and oppositional behaviors. This acclaimed social and emotional approach creates a peaceful classroom where teaching
becomes a joy! In this environment, all students thrive not only socially and emotionally, but academically as well. (This session meets
the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior.)
323. Experiential Education: Connecting Community to the Classroom
Catherine DeBates
6-12
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
New session: Take learning to the next level with hands-on projects for your classroom. Help your students take their leadership and
strengths to your community’s streets through experiential education! Practical application of skills will be discussed, along with how to
keep your students engaged in the betterment of our community organizations and programs. Tips and tricks on how to connect with
your community representatives and nonprofits will also be a highlight of this session.
324. Book Study: Choice Words by Peter Johnston
Beth Flottmeier
K-5
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
New session: Using purposeful talk in the classroom is essential. Read Choice Words and learn how to change your language to
support student learning. What teachers say and don't say can have an important impact on children. "Through language, children
learn how to become strategic thinkers, not merely how to use literacy strategies." Read the book and come ready to discuss the
important aspects of language with colleagues. You may earn a total of 10 CEUs for the work you complete prior to the session and
participation in the book study. For details, visit the Book Study Information link on the SORLA website. http://sorla.us
325. iPad Strategies That Work in K-5 Classrooms
Kelli McCully
K-5
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
Your primary or intermediate classroom has iPads...now what? How can you use them most effectively to help students learn?
Classroom Instruction That Works identifies nine key categories of research-based instructional strategies that increase
student achievement. In this session, learn ideas for aligning iPad apps and activities with the “Marzano strategies” to maximize
student learning. Participants will explore high impact apps for K-5 learners, experience classroom examples of model strategies, and
discuss practical implementation approaches with other K-5 educators. Participants will be invited to contribute to and access a
resource list of Marzano-aligned apps. Bring an iPad. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for technology.)
326. Effort and Praise –When “Good Job” Doesn’t Work.
Linda Oberg
K-12
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
New session: How many times a day do we say “Awesome”, “Good Job” or “ Way to Go”? Do you know that this ‘person’ type of praise
can actually be detrimental to learning? Come hear how Carol Dweck’s work on fixed and growth mindset helps us to understand
motivation for learning. Learn that HOW we praise makes all the difference in students’ effort and ultimately how much they learn.
327. Common Core Reading and Writing Skills
Kara Osmundson
6-12
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
Back from 2014: The Common Core literacy standards “lay out a vision of what it means to be a literate person in the twenty-first
century” and prepare students for “critical reading necessary to pick carefully through the staggering amount of information available
today in print and digitally.” Join us to explore, share, and develop plans to implement research-based reading and writing strategies to
help secondary students in all curricular areas develop literacy skills foundational for “creative and purposeful expression in language.”
(This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for Reading.)
328. Classroom Help: Self Regulation, Ideas and Q and A with an Occupational Therapist
Colette Ryan
PK-K
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
Adequate self-regulation is essential to the development of attention, control of emotions, and daily transitions. In this session, you will
receive ideas that will help your students improve learning by using strategies that can help with self regulation, sensory processing,
classroom environments, fine motor, gross motor, visual perception, self-care, organization - and anything else OT related. Ask
questions, problem solve, and gain new strategies that may be used with your students and classroom. Learn how even short bursts of
physical activity can enhance attention, memory, motivation and behavior. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for behavior or accommodation/modification.)
329. Interactive Notebooks: A Tool for Science Learning
Carole Velasquez
K-5
Wednesday, June 17, 12:30-3:30
New session: Looking for ideas to integrate literacy into science? Wanting to be more responsive to students’ questions and
understanding of science content? This session will review practical tips and strategies on how to use an interactive notebook. We will
review best practices with science notebooks, the interactive notebook structure and highlight examples from the classroom. Plan to
take-away ideas on how to use a new tool for teaching and learning. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for
reading)
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
400. Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Teaching and Learning: Book Study
Stephanie Clark
PreK-12
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
New session: In his book, Sharroky Hollie provides a “universal framework to enable educators to change their mindsets and hearts
about how students are looked upon culturally and linguistically.” Hollie also shares strategies for integrating culturally and linguistically
responsive instruction into your daily lessons. After this book study you will leave with a deeper understanding of equity and diversity in
relation to race, culture and language. You will also gather concrete classroom activities and strategies. You may earn a total of 10
CEUs for the work you complete prior to the session and participation in the book study. For details, visit the Book Study Information
link on the SORLA website. http://sorla.us (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for
accommodation/modification.)
401. Reviving Your Reading Workshop
Beth Flottmeier & Caroline Linden
K-5
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
New session: This session will focus on evidence based best practices for Reader’s Workshop which include creating a classroom
culture that fosters literacy motivation, teaching reading for authentic meaning making, providing students with scaffolded instruction,
providing children with high quality literature across genres and balancing teacher and student led discussions. The session will allow
for time to reflect on current practice and discuss issues with fellow educators while modeling engagement strategies. (This session
meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
402. Remembering Their Math
Kathy Gerber
1-3
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
In this interactive session you will learn strategies that make math fun, so students better understand and apply mathematical concepts.
Engage in hands-on, visual activities that get students physically and mentally involved in their learning. (This session meets the
Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
403. From Burned Out to LIT UP! Reigniting Your Passion to Teach
Louise Griffith
PreK-12
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
You are on the front line of making a difference in the lives of every student, every day. In this powerful presentation, Louise shares her
secrets of success in teaching with intention and mentoring with compassion every single day. Whatever your role in education -- from
teacher to support staff to administration – you have the choice to influence the lives of students in a positive way and contribute to
lifelong success. At the core is also a commitment to honor yourself wherever you are on your journey.
404. What Teens With Mental Illness Want You to Know.
Lisa Hansen
6-12
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
New session: Stress, grief and loss, self-esteem, social skills and heredity factors all play a vital role in a student’s mental wellness. In
this session, we will look at these factors and how they relate to mental illness. We will cover the signs and symptoms of the most
commonly diagnosed mental illnesses for teenagers. We will discuss the importance of awareness, what support is available for
students with mental illness, and how teachers can best work with students who are struggling. (This session meets the Minnesota relicensure requirement for mental health.)
405. Intro to SMART Board and Notebook Software
Joe Melde
PreK-5
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
Back by popular demand: We will show you how to create slides on the SMARTboard. We will learn how to use text and drawing
(including pictures from notebook and the internet) to give you tips and tricks for creating useful things for the classroom. We will learn
where to find and access already made SMARTboard lessons. We also will explore other internet sites that are great with
SMARTboard. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for technology.)
406. 6 Ways to Give Students Voice
Kara Osmundson
6-12
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
New session: Looking to increase engagement in your classroom? In this session, you'll be introduced to web-based tools that you
could easily use tomorrow to get quick formative feedback from your students. We will examine examples of classroom response
systems as well as some innovative ways to increase student discussion using these tools: Kahoot, Infuse Learning, Padlet, Google
Forms (each of these also has an iPad app), Poll Everywhere, Today's Meet. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for technology.)
407. Stress: Riding the Wave or Fighting the Current
Stevie Ray
K-12
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
New session for 2015: Everyone hears about how important it is to remove stress from daily life, but few people will tell you exactly how
to do it. Using research from the fields of neuroscience and psychology, Stevie Ray will tell you what really causes stress (it isn’t what
you think), and proven methods of managing the day-to-day pressures of being an educator.
408. The Art of Writing
Rose Regan
3-6
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
Help yourself and your students expand on your ability to write with strategies that will stretch and change you and your students as
writers. In this class you will experience and try out some of the very writing techniques that you will utilize with your students in your
writing classes. Topics included in this workshop will be ideas to launch a writer’s workshop, lessons about topics, lessons about the
principles of writing, and lessons about genres. The goal of this workshop is for you to understand experientially the kinds of lessons
that will help your students flourish in writing. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
409. Creative Book Making
Diann Selin
K-3
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
New session: In this hands-on workshop, you will learn ways to make creative containers for Reader’s and Writer’s Workshop. No
creativity required. Learn some basics, and leave the rest up to your students. It’s a great way to motivate students to read and
compliment their writing. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
410. In Their Skin
Jean White
K-5
Thursday, June 18, 8:30-11:30
New session: “If you can learn a simple trick, Scout, you’ll get along a lot better with all kinds of folks. You never really understand a
person until you consider things from his point of view, until you climb inside his skin and walk around in it.” (Atticus Finch in To Kill A
Mockingbird) EMPATHY is trying to understand what another person is feeling. It is seeing the world through another’s eyes. Empathy
can’t be taught, but it can be caught. This session will explore ways to create the conditions for students to understand and practice
empathy. You will come away with several ideas, resources and websites that you can use in your classroom. (This session meets the
Minnesota re-licensure requirement for behavior.)
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
420. 2E Or Not 2E, That Is Not the Question!
Erin Boltik
PreK-12
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
New session: Join me for a closer look at the complexities of a 2E learner. Learn some strategies that you can employ to bring about
greater success in these students. Discover useful resources for both parents and teachers as we strive to understand these unique
learners and help them to mine their gifts! For a definition of “2E”, go to Presenter Bios at www.sorla.us Erin Boltik has a definition on
her bio. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
421. Active Participation and Grouping Strategies
Stephanie Clark
K-5
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
Back by popular demand: Small groups provide students with opportunities to become active in learning. Groups can be used to
develop better solutions to problems, encourage students to help one another learn, and develop improved communication skills.
Groups can also provide a context for students to apply information they learned, thus making learning more relevant. We will
investigate a variety of grouping strategies and activities that will encourage active participation meeting the needs of a diverse
classroom. Participants will gain a better understanding of effective structuring and monitoring cooperative activities and groups (This
session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
422. Remembering Their Math
Kathy Gerber
4-6
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
In this interactive session you will learn strategies that make math fun, so students better understand and apply mathematical
concepts. Engage in hands-on, visual activities that get students physically and mentally involved in their learning. (This session meets
the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
423. Storytelling Through Yoga
Ann Griffin
PreK-5
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
Back by popular demand: Yoga is a great way for children to find stillness and calm in our busy classrooms, as well as helping children
make connections between their body and mind. This session will share simple and engaging ways to tell familiar stories such as
Mushroom in the Rain, The Mitten, and A Walk in the Jungle while children use their bodies to create the animals in the story. Come
ready to move! (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for accommodation/modification.)
424. You Are Worth It
Louise Griffith
PK-12
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
In your profession, it is common to focus on caring for others while forgetting the importance of caring for you. Take this opportunity to
renew and refresh yourself as both person and educator. In this session, you will: explore ways to honor your wisdom within, step into
your personal power while choosing your story and experience the celebration of your individual gifts and strengths. When you decide
you are worth it, whatever your “it” may be, you make a choice and often take a leap of faith. Many options open up for you. This
session is designed to move you forward.
425. iPads in the Classroom
Joe Melde
3-5
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
Back by popular demand: Participants will learn about apps for basic practice; including math flash cards, language arts practice and
reading apps. You will learn how to do research on iPads using Safari and taking notes. You will learn how to word process on iPads
as well as using Google Drive, Pages, KeyNote, Writing Books and Creating Art. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure
requirement for technology.)
426. Amplify Student Creativity
Kara Osmundson
6-12
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
New session: Tired of seeing the same old Powerpoint presentation? In this session you'll learn about ways to help students gather and
organize information, make connections, and collaborate on projects. This will have them producing creative and meaningful, rich
content. We will explore tools such as Animoto, Visually, Padlet, Haiku Deck, and website creation. (This session meets the Minnesota
re-licensure requirement for technology.)
427. Techniques in Writing that Work
Rose Regan
3-6
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
The goal of this writing class is to help you expand and utilize the ideas behind six traits in writing in a fashion that helps you and your
students understand what is involved in moving on from ideas into organizational techniques that are tried and true to help all writers
create compositions that are cohesive, clear, and well planned. In this class you will not only learn of these ideas, but also engage
yourself in activities that will not only foster your own writing but will also expand your student’s ability to express themselves clearly
and creatively in writing. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
428. Developing Thinking Readers
Diann Selin
K-2
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
New session for 2015: Critically thinking readers discover information and ideas within a text and evaluate the evidence found. Then,
they decide what to do with it. Metacognitive strategies, once learned, make critical thinking more likely. We will discuss these
strategies and how they can be effectively integrated into what you are already doing with your students. (This session meets the
Minnesota re-licensure requirement for reading.)
429.Teaching Like a Champion
Tom Spalla
K-8
Thursday, June 18, 12:30-3:30
Back by popular demand: In this “Can’t Miss” session teachers will be learning new techniques to enhance student learning from the
book Teaching Like a Champion, including No Opt Out, Stretch It, Reach It and Post It to name a few. We will also be doing active
games to enhance learning with movement regarding brain breaks, literacy games and activities. Come prepared to learn and move!!!
All teachers K-8 will benefit from this session. (This session meets the Minnesota re-licensure requirement for
accommodation/modification.)