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Friday, March 7
 

4:00pm EST

Registration and Check-in at Amway
Friday March 7, 2025 4:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Amway Concourse
Attendee Registration & Check-In
Amway Concourse | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Stop by the Amway Concourse to check in and pick up your badge, conference materials, and any additional information you may need. Our team is ready to welcome you and help you get started for a great event!
Friday March 7, 2025 4:00pm - 6:00pm EST
Amway Concourse

5:30pm EST

Conference Kickoff Celebration
Friday March 7, 2025 5:30pm - 8:00pm EST
Imperial Ballroom (Amway)
Friday Night Kickoff Event
5:30 PM - 5:45 PM – Check-in for Kickoff
5:45 PM - 6:00 PM – Gather and Welcome
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM – Kickoff & Past President Recognition
Join us for an exciting evening to kick off the conference! Begin with check-in and a warm welcome before we recognize our Past Presidents for their contributions to the community.
This is a complimentary event with a cash bar, and no tickets are needed to attend. Come ready to connect, celebrate, and set the tone for a fantastic conference experience!

Friday March 7, 2025 5:30pm - 8:00pm EST
Imperial Ballroom (Amway) 187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
 
Saturday, March 8
 

7:30am EST

Registration and Check-in at DeVos Place
Saturday March 8, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am EST
DeVos Place
Welcome to the Conference!
Attendee registration and check-in will take place at the DeVos Place Registration Booth. Stop by to pick up your badge, conference materials, and any additional information you may need. Our team is excited to welcome you and ensure you have a great experience!

Saturday March 8, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am EST
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

8:00am EST

Exhibit Hall Hours 8:00am - 4:00pm
Saturday March 8, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm EST
DeVos Place
Join us in the Exhibit Hall on Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM to connect with exhibitors, discover new products and services, and network with industry professionals. Don't miss this opportunity to explore and engage with everything the conference has to offer!
Saturday March 8, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm EST
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

8:30am EST

Gather in Community: Welcome & Keynote Session with Wiley Blevins
Saturday March 8, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EST
DeVos Ballroom A/B
Day 1 Opening Session
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Gather in Community: Welcome & Intro
Join us for a warm welcome to kick off Day 1 of the conference. We’ll begin by recognizing outstanding authors with the Gwen Frostic Educator Awards, honoring those who have made a lasting impact in the field of education.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Keynote General Session: Wiley Blevins
We are excited to welcome Wiley Blevins as our keynote speaker for Day 1. In his session, "Transitioning to Structured Literacy: A Case Study," Dr. Blevins will share firsthand experiences from lab schools in NYC as they navigated the shift from leveled book reading to structured literacy. He will explore the challenges they encountered and highlight the strategies that proved most impactful. This keynote offers a unique opportunity to explore structured literacy in action and its role in shaping effective, evidence-based instruction. Let’s come together, celebrate educators, and learn from this transformative journey in literacy education!


 
Speakers
avatar for Liz Lietz, MRA President

Liz Lietz, MRA President

ELA Consultant, Macomb Intermediate School District
Liz Lietz is an ELA Consultant for the Macomb Intermediate School District. She is currently serving as the President of the Michigan Reading Association, and is a Member-At-Large for NCTE's Conference on English Leadership (CEL) executive board. Liz taught high school English and... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Wiley Blevins

Dr. Wiley Blevins

Senior Vice President, Associate Publisher, Benchmark Education Company
Wiley Blevins has a Doctorate in Education. He studied at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and Bowling Green State University. He is an author, educational consultant, and researcher, and has taught both in the United States and South America. Wiley has written over 17 books... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EST
DeVos Ballroom A/B

10:00am EST

Exhibit Hall Exploration 10:00am
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am EST
DeVos Place
Take a break and explore the Exhibit Hall from 10:00 to 10:30 AM! This is a great opportunity to visit exhibitors, discover new resources, and connect with industry professionals. Whether you're looking for innovative tools, educational materials, or networking opportunities, make the most of this dedicated exhibit time!
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am EST
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

10:30am EST

Author Visits: Beyond the Basics, Beyond the Books
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Teachers use goal setting to direct many elements of the curriculum. Why not author visits?
Authors Alice B. McGinty and Sarah Aronson share a new approach to planning and implementing school visits. This includes a checklist of social-emotional and curriculum goals which will provide the tools to give students empowering, meaningful interactions with authors, bringing reading and writing to life.
Speakers
avatar for Alice McGinty

Alice McGinty

Author, SCBWI Michigan
As the author of over 50 books for children, both fiction and nonfiction, I love to visit schools and libraries and to feel the magic that happens when connecting with young readers! With award-winning books like Bathe the Cat, Pancakes to Parathas: Breakfast Around the World, and... Read More →
SA
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Appropriate for All Levels

10:30am EST

Read, Feel, Grow: Cultivating Vocabulary Development and SEL with Interactive Read-Alouds LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this session, elementary teachers will explore strategies to simultaneously support their students’ social-emotional learning (SEL) and vocabulary development during interactive read-alouds, using tools such as the feel wheel. The presenter will share resources to promote authentic and humanizing SEL and literacy practices for teachers to try in their own classrooms on Monday morning.
Speakers
avatar for Allison Phillippe

Allison Phillippe

PhD Candidate, Michigan State University
Allison Phillippe is a PhD Candidate at Michigan State University in the Curriculum, Instruction, and Teacher Education with a focus on Language and Literacy. Before coming to MSU, she taught third and fourth grade for nine years. Most recently, she taught fourth grade in Jenison... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Appropriate for All Levels

10:30am EST

Virtual Great Lakes Great Books Award Presentation 2024-25 LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Virtual Event
The virtual presentation will unveil the winners of the 2024-25 Great Lakes Great Books Award, as voted on by Michigan students! We will also reveal the nominees for grades K-12 for the 2025-26 list for the first time and provide resources for sharing the nominees with a class, voting instructions, and information on submitting a title for nomination for the next year. Streamed on Facebook LIVE.
Speakers
JS

Jesse Shirtz

co-chair, Great Lakes Great Books Award
HL
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Virtual Event
  Appropriate for All Levels

10:30am EST

Maximizing Phonics Success: Practical Strategies for Multisensory Engagement and Orthographic Mapping
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook F (Devos Place - Upper Level)
Embracing multisensory approaches while teaching phonics is crucial for enhancing students' ability to orthographically map phonics concepts, supporting reading, spelling, and writing. The session aims to deepen understanding of approaches and impact on student learning. Moreover, we’ll share practical ideas that educators can seamlessly integrate into their classrooms next week
Speakers
JV

Jen Vanderground

Faculty of Literacy Instruction, Grand Valley State University
avatar for Ellie Esman

Ellie Esman

Preservice Teacher, Grand Valley State University
avatar for Tyler Peery

Tyler Peery

Preservice Teacher
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook F (Devos Place - Upper Level)
  Early Childhood (Birth-K)   Elementary (K-5)

10:30am EST

Maximizing the Use of Decodable Texts LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
DeVos Ballroom C
This session focuses on using decodable texts to build fluency with phonics skills as well as how to use them to address spelling, vocabulary, comprehension, syntax, writing, and important early reading behaviors.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Wiley Blevins

Dr. Wiley Blevins

Senior Vice President, Associate Publisher, Benchmark Education Company
Wiley Blevins has a Doctorate in Education. He studied at the Harvard Graduate School of Education and Bowling Green State University. He is an author, educational consultant, and researcher, and has taught both in the United States and South America. Wiley has written over 17 books... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
DeVos Ballroom C
  Elementary (K-5)

10:30am EST

Personal Narrative Quick Writes through Literature: How to Develop Student Voice and Community LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
Participants will explore how to develop student voice through quick writes that align with a theme from a text. Through thoughtful book choice, conversation, and writing prompts, participants will explore ways to use text to garner opportunities for students to write about their own lives. Sample structures and collaboration with others around text and through quick writes will also be explored.
Speakers
avatar for Leah Porter

Leah Porter

3rd grade teacher, Holt Public Schools
Leah Porter is a 3rd grade teacher and the 2022 Michigan State Teacher of the Year. She teaches at Wilcox Elementary in Holt, Michigan. Previously, she has been a Kindergarten, Reading Recovery, and Intervention teacher. Porter holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)

10:30am EST

B is for Belonging LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Creating a sense of belonging starts with building strong, meaningful foundations through connection. When kids feel accepted as they form their identities, there are positive mental health effects. In this session, many ideas and literacy connections will be shared to create a classroom atmosphere where kids see themselves reflected and respected.
Speakers
avatar for Shannon Anderson

Shannon Anderson

Author, Brain Coach, Professor, Motivational Speaker, www.shannonisteaching.com
Shannon Anderson has taught for 25 years, from first grade through college level. She also served as the gifted coordinator for her school district and on the board of directors for the Indiana State Literacy Association. A highlight of her teaching career was being named one of the... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

10:30am EST

Reading, Writing, and Belonging: Creating a Culturally Responsive Classroom LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery F (DeVos Place)
Building a classroom culture that values every student’s voice is essential for creating a meaningful literacy experience.This session explores how educators can embrace identities as readers and writers, using literacy as a powerful tool for self-expression, community connection, and skill-building.
Speakers
HP

Heather Palmer

Literacy Consultant, Wayne RESA
CF
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery F (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

10:30am EST

Indigenous Authors, Improving Student Culture at the K-8 Level LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
This session will introduce educators to student-appropriate Native American books. It explores how Native American literature can be used in the classroom to introduce students to culture, heritage, and ways of life that may differ from their own. This session will celebrate diversity and inclusion of students and focus on building a safe learning environment.
Speakers
WG

Wendy Gilliard

6th grade teacher, Sault Area Public Schools
avatar for Sydnie Dumas

Sydnie Dumas

7th Grade ELA Teacher
I was born and raised in the Sault and came back home to teach at one of the middle schools. I attended JKL Bahweting School from grades K-8, which is funded by the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians. After high school I attended Central Michigan University where I received a B.S in... Read More →
KM
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching   Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

10:30am EST

Empowering Readers with Computational Thinking LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook D (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Computational Thinking (CT) is a set of strategies for tackling complex problems. In this hands-on session, participants will discover how CT skills—decomposition, pattern recognition, algorithm design, and abstraction—can strengthen students' literacy skills, boost teacher efficacy, and integrate technology to enrich reading and writing instruction.
Speakers
avatar for Katie Marchionna

Katie Marchionna

Michigan Computational Thinking Project Manager, Project Tomorrow
Ask me how Computational Thinking can give students the tools they need to be effective problem-solvers!
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook D (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Literacy Coaching

10:30am EST

Enhancing Literacy Instruction: Selecting, Piloting, and Implementing High-Quality ELA Materials LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
This session explores how a district selected, piloted, and implemented high-quality ELA materials using the Essential Practices in Early Literacy. With a focus on transparency, teacher voice, and coaching support, participants will learn practical strategies to improve reading and writing instruction through collaborative, teacher-driven processes.
Speakers
LA

Laura Allen

K-5 Instructional Coach, Pinckney Community Schools/LESA
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

10:30am EST

Exploring the Early Literacy Assessment System Guide: A Tool to Drive and Support Early Literacy through the Development of a Balanced Assessment System LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
In this session, participants will be introduced to the Early Literacy Assessment System (ELAS) guide and how it can be used to develop key ideas and principles about the development and assessment of literacy, and how those ideas contribute to assessment system models that can be designed and implemented to support the literacy achievement of all Michigan students.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melissa Usiak

Dr. Melissa Usiak

Assistant Professor, Executive Director, Michigan State University, Michigan ASCD
Truly excited to share resources with you around SEL. We need each and every member in our school communities leading this work. This is a session for ALL!
avatar for Ellen Vorenkamp

Ellen Vorenkamp

Professional Learning Director, Michigan Assessment Consortium
Ellen Vorenkamp has worked in the field of education for the past 30+ years. She currently serves as the Professional Learning Director for the Michigan Assessment Consortium (MAC).In addition, she is a lead for the FAME program through MDE, a board member for the MAC and a private... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
  Literacy Coaching

10:30am EST

Rookie to Rockstar: Empowering New Teachers for Long-Term Success LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
Infusing the JOY framework into our comprehensive professional development by unleashing the potential of new teachers, guiding them with support around the four pillars throughout the year, and fostering a culture of joy, excellence, and lifelong learning.Our comprehensive mentor training program is designed to empower and equip new teachers, prevent burnout, and ensure long-term success.
Speakers
avatar for Kate Rossetter

Kate Rossetter

Engagement and Literacy Educational Consultant, EduKateR- LLC
AJ
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

10:30am EST

For Elementary and Secondary - Who’s at the Center? Cultivating a Critical Lens to Building and Integrating Culturally Relevant Text Sets LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this workshop-style session, we model how to critically and strategically build culturally relevant text sets that amplify diverse voices in literacy/ELA education. Attendees will articulate their criteria for selecting texts, explore sample text sets, and experiment with instructional activities that center students’ intersectional identities through intentional text selection and integration.

Our presentation can be accessed here.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Christina M. Ponzio

Dr. Christina M. Ponzio

Assistant Professor, Grand Valley State University
Building from my previous experiences as a secondary ELA/ESL teacher, ESL program coordinator, and literacy coach in Metro Detroit and teacher educator at Michigan State University, University of Michigan, and Wayne State University, I am committed to advancing equity, inclusion and... Read More →
avatar for Brianna Albert

Brianna Albert

Kindergarten Teacher, Martin Public Schools
Hello everyone! I am so excited to be presenting at this conference!  I am glad I get to expand my knowledge with all of you! I have been teaching for 4 years now with mostly lower elementary experience and some upper elementary. I am working on my masters at GVSU in educational... Read More →
SW
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

10:30am EST

Keys to Reading, Analyzing, and Writing Nonfiction LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
We will explore educators’ new ideas about reading, analyzing, and writing nonfiction. Old strategies mislead classes: the 5-paragraph essay oversimplifies nonfiction. We will discuss the goals, structure, and development of complex modern essays, including scholarly articles. Participants will receive handouts with essay structures, lesson plans, and nonfiction writing assignments for students.
Speakers
JR

Janet Ruth Heller

Past President, Michigan College English Association
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

10:30am EST

Catalyzing Youth Superpowers—Co-Designing Joy, Laughter, and Peace Through Reading, Writing & Virtual Reality LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In a digital era dominated by violent video games, we're flipping the script. We are arming youth with reading, writing, storytelling, digital and peace literacy skills, catalyzing their superpowers. Our collaborative approach is groundbreaking; we're partnering with students, co-creating virtual reality gaming based on their real-world experiences. They aren't just players; they're co-designers!
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Erica Robertson

Dr. Erica Robertson

CEO, Adventures Publishing House
Adventures Publishing House is an international publishing house that provides books, content, curriculum, and experiences that educate, inspire, heal, and empower generations of young people, educators, families, and caretakers. We keep up with technological advances such as VR... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

10:30am EST

Reading and Writing for Tier 2 and 3 Students, Students with Disabilities, and English Learners FILLING
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook E (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
This session will explore strategies and best practices for teaching English Language Arts to create the most equitable experience possible for all students in a classroom setting regardless of race and ethnicity, disability status, language background, and socioeconomic status.
Speakers
MK

Megan Kowalski

Special Education Teacher, Chicago Public Schools
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
River Overlook E (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

10:30am EST

Room to Wrestle: Teaching with Novels in Verse LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
Sharing our experiences as educators and authors, we will highlight the power of using novels-in-verse to create space for students to wrestle with identity and complex topics. Participants can expect to engage in examples of hands-on lessons that use excerpts from various verse novels as we experiment and discover together.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly J. Baptist

Kelly J. Baptist

Kelly J. Baptist is the award-winning author of eight books for kids, including Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero, The Electric Slide and Kai, and the NAACP Image Award-nominated Eb & Flow. Kelly was the 2023 Gwen Frostic Award recipient. She lives and writes in Southwest Michigan, where her... Read More →
avatar for Dana VanderLugt

Dana VanderLugt

Secondary Literacy Consultant, Ottawa Area ISD
Dana VanderLugt is a writer and literacy consultant for the Ottawa Area ISD who has taught reading and writing in middle school, high school, and college classrooms.Her first book, Enemies in the Orchard: A World War 2 Novel in Verse was published by Zonderkidz in September 2023... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EST
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

11:30am EST

Exhibit Hall Exploration 11:30 am LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EST
DeVos Place
Join us in the Exhibit Hall on Saturday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM to connect with exhibitors, discover new products and services, and network with industry professionals. Don't miss this opportunity to explore and engage with everything the conference has to offer!
Saturday March 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EST
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

11:30am EST

Ticketed Event: Luncheon with John Schu
Saturday March 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EST
Ambassador East (Amway)
This year MRA is excited to offer a luncheon opportunity with Keynote Speaker John Schu. If you are attending MRA's 69th Annual Conference, this is your opportunity to purchase a ticket for this limited seating spectacular presentation on Saturday, March 08, 2025, at 11:30 AM - 12:30PM. You will also have an opportunity to purchase one of John Schu's books and have it signed by him later in the day at the Author's Garden event at 4:00 PM. Cornucopia Bookstore will be on-site Saturday and Sunday at the conference. Be sure to stop by Cornucopia's booth in the Exhibit Hall C at DeVos Place before the end of day Saturday. Check-in for the event will be available starting at 11:00 AM. The celebration will be held in the Ambassador Ballroom, at the Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton , 187 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. 
  • Luncheon Registration is required to attend this event.
  • You must also be a registered attendee for the MRA 69th Annual Conference.
  • Conference Registration will be verified. 
  • Refunds will not be available.
  • Seating is first come first serve.
  • Book giveaways!
 
Speakers
avatar for John Schu

John Schu

Author and Children's Librarian, Bookelicious
John Schu has made a career out of advocating for the people and things he cares about most: kids, books, and the people that connect them. He was named a Library Journal Mover and Shaker for his dynamic interactions with students and his passionate adoption of new technologies... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EST
Ambassador East (Amway)

1:00pm EST

Museum Visits as Literacy-Learning Opportunities: A Look at The Henry Ford’s Literacy-Focused Programming
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook E (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Museum visits can provide an abundance of learning opportunities, but how can we support early literacy during these visits? Learn how The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn, MI is centering literacy in its programming and creating opportunities for young learners to expand and strengthen their reading skills during their time spent within the exhibit halls.
Speakers
avatar for Lori Petrelius

Lori Petrelius

Museum Programs Manager, The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Hi there, I'm Lori! I'm a relocated Yooper living in the Metro Detroit area. I am the museum programs manager at The Henry Ford and an advocate for children's literacy programs. I can't wait to connect with you!
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook E (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Appropriate for All Levels

1:00pm EST

The Gift of Story LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
DeVos Ballroom C
The best booktalks are those delivered from the heart. It’s the way we share our love and passion for favorite titles and books that inspires students and colleagues. Join children’s book author and librarian John Schu as he invites us to imagine the many ways books can foster connection and understanding. He’ll share some of the best new books and ways to easily incorporate them into your school reading culture to increase reading motivation, stamina, and growth.
Speakers
avatar for John Schu

John Schu

Author and Children's Librarian, Bookelicious
John Schu has made a career out of advocating for the people and things he cares about most: kids, books, and the people that connect them. He was named a Library Journal Mover and Shaker for his dynamic interactions with students and his passionate adoption of new technologies... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
DeVos Ballroom C
  Appropriate for All Levels

1:00pm EST

Building Foundational Literacy Through Interactive Writing: A Collaborative Approach LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
Breath in learning from shared experiences and express it through the collaborative process of Interactive Writing. This process engages students to co-create text, enhancing their phonics, vocabulary, and sentence structure skills in authentic contexts. This session provides practical, hands-on strategies aligned to empower educators with the tools to bolster foundational literacy development. Audience: PreK-2 classroom teachers, literacy coaches, administrators, special education, EL educators.
Speakers
avatar for Jill Erfourth

Jill Erfourth

Elementary Literacy Consultant/Coach, Utica Community Schools
avatar for Susan Meadows

Susan Meadows

Elementary Literacy Coach, Utica Community Schools
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)

1:00pm EST

Books to Builds: STEM Activities to Compliment Your Favorite Read-Alouds LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
Integrate STEM seamlessly into read-alouds to boost comprehension and engagement without extra time. Learn to pair beloved stories with simple engineering challenges that bring texts to life while also building STEM skills. Discover new favorite picture books and walk away ready to enrich your read-alouds with interactive, story-based STEM activities.
Speakers
avatar for Terra Tarango

Terra Tarango

Director, Van Andel Institute for Education
Terra Tarango serves as Director of the Van Andel Institute for Education, overseeing innovative student programs, game-changing teacher professional development, and the implementation of Blue Apple projects where teachers inspire students to make the world a better place. She is... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

1:00pm EST

Reading Is a Passport to a World Without Limits LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery F (DeVos Place)
This hands-on session will provide participants with research based practices and ideas in three areas of ELA instruction; how to build and utilize classroom libraries and engage students in literature, integrating literature across all subjects, and literacy models of co-teaching through partnerships with high schools and colleges. Participants will receive a book(s) and prizes!
Speakers
MD

Mr. David Higgins

Principal, Dearborn Public Schools
AS
MA
PH
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery F (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

1:00pm EST

We Like Big Words and We Cannot Lie: Supporting Grades K-5 Students through Word Study, Decoding, and the English Language LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
Find success in word study! This session will highlight practices and strategies for supporting all students with their decoding and morphological awareness across kindergarten through 5th grade. Tips and tricks will be shared from Mesmer’s “Big Words for Young Readers” and Michigan’s Literacy Essentials K-3 & 4-5 documents.
Speakers
MB
CW

Chad Waldron

Marie Berrell Endowed Professor of Literacy, Central Michigan University
AJ
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

1:00pm EST

Writing from Scratch: Whip Up Delicious Writing Lessons Your Students Will Eat Up! LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Motivating our young writers to take creative "whisks" can be tricky at the elementary level. In this practical, you-can-do-it session, you will learn strategies for young writers to add some flavor to their writing. Through demonstrations, video clips, and oodles of ideas, you’ll be excited to go back to the classroom and try some of these writing recipes with just the right dash of fun.
Speakers
avatar for Shannon Anderson

Shannon Anderson

Author, Brain Coach, Professor, Motivational Speaker, www.shannonisteaching.com
Shannon Anderson has taught for 25 years, from first grade through college level. She also served as the gifted coordinator for her school district and on the board of directors for the Indiana State Literacy Association. A highlight of her teaching career was being named one of the... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

1:00pm EST

The Path to Fluency for ALL Readers: The Essential Components for Developing Struggling Readers FULL
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
"Do you want me to do real reading or just read fast?" was the question from a student that stopped me in my tracks. I will tell the story of our journey in searching for a way to help our students become fluent and confident readers that supported "real reading".
Speakers
avatar for Angi Hoyer

Angi Hoyer

Partner Success & Professional Learning Lead, Foundations In Learning
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching   Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

1:00pm EST

Unlocking the Power of Morphology for Multilingual Learners FILLING
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Explore the critical role of morphology in literacy development and its impact on reading and writing. Learn about how multilingual learners’ languages interact to support literacy. Gain resources to foster an inclusive learning environment. Learn strategies to integrate morphology instruction into your classroom. Discover how morphology can transform your reading instruction for ALL students!
Speakers
avatar for Angela Massey

Angela Massey

Instruction Team Specialist, Institute of Multi-Sensory Education
avatar for Ms. Rachel Eggleston

Ms. Rachel Eggleston

Doctoral Candidate, University of Michigan
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching   Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

1:00pm EST

Utilizing Free eResources from the Michigan eLibrary to Build Text Sets LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
The Michigan eLibrary (MeL) has many free eResources to support all citizens in the state. In this session we will pair nonfiction eResources (including articles, images, maps and video clips) in MeL with examples from the culturally diverse MISelf in Books title lists to build upon student learning and understanding.
Speakers
avatar for Ann Kaskinen

Ann Kaskinen

MeL Engagement Specialist, K-12, Michigan eLibrary/MCLS
The Michigan eLibrary (MeL) is a statewide online library service managed by the Library of Michigan, offering Michigan residents free access to a vast collection of digital resources like full-text articles, ebooks, and databases.
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching   Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

1:00pm EST

Stories of Leadership & Liberation LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
This session will introduce participants to “Stories of Leadership & Liberation,” an innovative curriculum that uses select picture books to affirm, challenge, and deepen notions of leadership for children and adult learners. The liberatory texts center themes of communication, trust, and decision making. Participants will engage in dialogue, interactive read-aloud, and critical text analysis. Maren Oberman is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan Marsal Family School of Education in Ann Arbor, MI. She teaches in both undergraduate- and graduate- teacher- and leader-preparation programs. Her work uses both literature and history to support students' growth and development, advance justice-oriented education, interrogate white supremacy, and de-center whiteness, through the teaching of courses such as Stories of Leadership & Liberation, Exploring Whiteness, Introduction to Leadership Development, and Teaching to Transgress. Oberman also provides consultation and professional development to individuals, teams, schools, and organizations in the areas of racial identity development, intergroup dialogue, and justice aims.
Speakers
DM

Dr. Maren Oberman

Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Michigan Marsal Family School of Education
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

1:00pm EST

Transformative Literacy Teaching and Learning: A Community-Based Reading Initiative LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook F (Devos Place - Upper Level)
Educators will learn the importance of utilizing powerful community connections as a resource to foster literacy and language growth in their classrooms, schools, and/or districts. Using both statistical and anecdotal data, the presenters will discuss the results of a summer reading intervention and discuss strengths and challenges of community-based in-school and out-of-school interventions.
Speakers
GT

Gwendolyn Thompson McMillon

Professor of Literacy, Oakland University
avatar for Danielle Alexander

Danielle Alexander

Doctoral Student and Graduate Assistant, Oakland University
A former high school English/journalism teacher and university composition instructor, I am interested in the teaching and assessing of secondary and postsecondary student writing.
QW
YM
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook F (Devos Place - Upper Level)
  Literacy Coaching

1:00pm EST

We Are All Learners and We Are All Teachers: A Community of Practice for "Teaching for Black Lives" LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this interactive session we will explore together how literacy communities can be reimagined as more just and transformative spaces by: 1) building collective professional learning opportunities in liberatory education; and 2) centering community-based literacy educators as equal partners alongside school-based educators.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Leah van Belle

Dr. Leah van Belle

Senior Consultant, Learning and Impact, Detroit Parent Network
Leah serves as Senior Consultant for Learning & Impact with Detroit Parent Network and is Part-Time Faculty at Eastern Michigan University. A proud Detroiter and first-generation high school graduate, her professional and community work have focused on literacy access and equity... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Literacy Coaching

1:00pm EST

Good Grammar: Creating Joyful and Affirming Language Lessons That Work for More Students FULL
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
Grammar is often taught with a focus on error correction, rather than an invitation to craft, joy, and play—and so often the results are less than desired. This session will offer an alternative: practical, novel, joyful, and human solutions for teaching grammar in effective, equitable, enjoyable ways. Participants will walk away with research-based lessons that can be implemented tomorrow.
Speakers
MJ

Matthew Johnson

ELA Teacher, Ann Arbor Public Schools
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

1:00pm EST

Growing Teachers in their Support of Multilingual Learners LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
This session integrates the Literacy Essentials with research in English language development to deepen teachers' understanding and application of instruction while supporting multilingual learners and building capacity to interact with families and communities across diverse language and cultural backgrounds.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Stolle

Elizabeth Stolle

Grand Valley State University
Grand Valley State University's (GVSU) mission is to empower learners and enrich society through teaching, scholarship, equity, and public service. GVSU's vision is to prepare globally-minded citizens.
avatar for Dr. Christina M. Ponzio

Dr. Christina M. Ponzio

Assistant Professor, Grand Valley State University
Building from my previous experiences as a secondary ELA/ESL teacher, ESL program coordinator, and literacy coach in Metro Detroit and teacher educator at Michigan State University, University of Michigan, and Wayne State University, I am committed to advancing equity, inclusion and... Read More →
avatar for Lindsay Stoetzel

Lindsay Stoetzel

Professor, Grand Valley State University
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

1:00pm EST

Independent Reading in High School That Honors Choice and Creativity and Doesn’t Kill the Love of Reading LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook D (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
How do you assess independent reading when you can’t read every book? How do you know if students are fake reading? How can you improve reading skills and practice important writing skills? How do you repair students’ relationships with reading? This session will tackle all this and provide adaptable solutions/ideas that can be taken from this session and used in classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Becky Schwartz

Becky Schwartz

High School Teacher, Springport Public Schools
Becky Schwartz is an English/Social Studies teacher at Springport High School in Jackson county Michigan. In her over 10 years of teaching, she has taught 7th - 12 grade in English, social studies, and computer science. She has been a teacher consultant with the Chippewa River Writing... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
River Overlook D (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

1:00pm EST

Using Multicultural Poems to Get Students to Write LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Diverse works inspire empathy and good student writing. We will analyze poems by women, Hispanic, Native-American, Black, Arab-American, and Asian-American poets: Alberto Ríos, Langston Hughes, Gwendolyn Brooks, Mong-Lan, Joy Harjo, Naomi Shihab Nye, Robert Hayden, etc. We will discuss what makes a poem outstanding. Participants will get handouts with poems, lesson plans, and a bibliography.
Speakers
JR

Janet Ruth Heller

Past President, Michigan College English Association
Saturday March 8, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm EST
Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

2:00pm EST

Exhibit Hall Exploration 2:00pm LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
DeVos Place
Exhibit Exploration: 2:00 - 2:30 PM
Take time to explore the Exhibit Hall from 2:00 to 2:30 PM. Visit exhibitors, discover new resources, and connect with industry professionals. Whether you're searching for innovative tools, educational materials, or valuable networking opportunities, make the most of this dedicated time to engage and learn!

Saturday March 8, 2025 2:00pm - 2:30pm EST
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

2:30pm EST

Building Bridges: Developing Community Partnerships that Improve Literacy Learning
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
River Overlook D (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Although schools and school districts list building community partnerships as a goal, many of them do not know how to establish and sustain community partnerships. The purpose of this presentation is to show attendees how to mobilize and sustain community partnerships by using statistical and anecdotal data from their literacy intervention project.
Speakers
GT

Gwendolyn Thompson McMillon

Professor of Literacy, Oakland University
JM
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
River Overlook D (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Appropriate for All Levels

2:30pm EST

Lit Everywhere: Dynamic Research-Supported Literacy Tools for Learning In and Out of School LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
Seeking a literacy resource to enhance instruction & engage families? There's an app, a show, and a Michigan platform for that! Explore the PreK-Grade 5 literacy program, Read, Write, ROAR!, aligned with Essential Instructional Practices in Early Literacy. Discover ways to support literacy development in and out of school (e.g., summer learning & family engagement efforts) with this free resource!
Speakers
avatar for Erin Pell

Erin Pell

Project Director, Instructional Applications, MAISA
Erin is a dynamic and versatile educator with a passion for early literacy. She earned her bachelor's degree in Education from Michigan State, a master's in Reading Instruction from Concordia, and has spent over a decade honing her skills as a classroom teacher and literacy coach... Read More →
avatar for Annie Spear

Annie Spear

Project Director Michigan Learning Channel, MAISA
I am a passionate literacy educator, consultant, and author committed to supporting fellow educators, leaders, and community partners in service of children and families. My work is centered on literacy research for ages birth to age 10. Through my work with MAISA’s Literacy Essentials... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
  Appropriate for All Levels

2:30pm EST

Rebellious Read Alouds LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
DeVos Ballroom C
Children yearn to see themselves in our classrooms. In this session, we'll discover how our culture reveals itself in the classroom and make connections between diversity and our students using children's books. Confidently engage in conversations about cultural backgrounds and identify higher-order thinking questions to use with children's books about diversity. You'll walk away with a toolbox of specific reading, writing, and SEL strategies to help you engage young learners in conversation around diversity.
Speakers
avatar for Vera Ahiyya

Vera Ahiyya

Presenter, The Tutu Teacher
Vera Ahiyya (thetututeacher.com) (née Corbett) was born in Germany and raised in El Paso, TX with her wonderful mother and amazing grandparents. Originally a pre-med student, Vera realized her calling as an educator at Austin College in Sherman, TX, where she majored in History and Psychology and earned her MA in... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
DeVos Ballroom C
  Appropriate for All Levels

2:30pm EST

Word Wizard: Casting Spells with Elementary Vocabulary FILLING
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
Do your students have foundational reading skills but struggle with comprehension? Are you a preschool teacher and want to set up your students for success? This session will explain the significant role that vocabulary plays in reading comprehension, offer protocols to follow for explicitly teaching vocabulary, and how you can improve your day to day word choice in your classroom.
Speakers
KR

Karen Roys

Literacy Coach / Early Math Specialist, Dryden Community Schools
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
  Early Childhood (Birth-K)   Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

2:30pm EST

40 Ways to Spark a Love of Reading FULL
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Inspire your students to enjoy reading with these 40 creative ideas you can use for years to come in your classroom, library, or school! Reading for pleasure leads to improved reading comprehension, writing skills, vocabulary, spelling, and grammatical development. Most importantly, reading for pleasure is crucial for developing life-long, avid readers.
Speakers
avatar for Shannon Anderson

Shannon Anderson

Author, Brain Coach, Professor, Motivational Speaker, www.shannonisteaching.com
Shannon Anderson has taught for 25 years, from first grade through college level. She also served as the gifted coordinator for her school district and on the board of directors for the Indiana State Literacy Association. A highlight of her teaching career was being named one of the... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

2:30pm EST

Turning Writing Woes into Wins: Practical Tools for Effective Writing Instruction LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery F (DeVos Place)
Explore our journey in Jenison Public Schools to address the need for explicit, systematic writing instruction. Hear how we equipped teachers with practical tools, engaging lesson plans, and professional development support. We’ll share our writing journey, celebrate successes, and inspire educators to transform writing instruction in their classrooms. Let’s unlock the joy of writing together!
Speakers
avatar for Nicole Nelson

Nicole Nelson

National Curriculum Consultant, Learning A-Z
EK

Erin Kornoely

Grade 3-6 Instructional Coach, Jenison Public Schools
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery F (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

2:30pm EST

From the Author Toolbox - Using Mentor Texts for Reading It In and Writing It Out LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Help students enjoy ‘reading it in and writing it out’ by embracing their author mojo. Hear how a former classroom teacher and published picture book author uses mentor texts to mine ideas, format stories, and hone craft. Explore lessons, games, and activities that provide the space and opportunity for students to have their voices heard and to represent their own communities.
Speakers
avatar for Cindy Williams Schrauben

Cindy Williams Schrauben

Author, Cindy Williams Schrauben Books
Cindy Williams Schrauben lives in west Michigan where she writes books for children that range from the truly serious to the seriously silly. When not writing or sharing her books, this award-winning author might be found dissecting her grandsons’ shenanigans for story ideas, reading... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching   Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

2:30pm EST

Growing Together: Writing into Social Emotional Learning LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
In this session, educators will explore approaches to integrating social emotional learning (SEL) within daily writing opportunities. The presenters will share research-based strategies to embed SEL within writing practices alongside real-world examples including connecting to students’ funds of knowledge, fostering positive environments, and promoting self-awareness and self-regulation.
Speakers
avatar for Lindsay Stoetzel

Lindsay Stoetzel

Professor, Grand Valley State University
MM
avatar for Angela Gonzalez-Urbina

Angela Gonzalez-Urbina

I am a third grade TWBI teacher for Holland Language Academy for the last 5 years.  I love being able to teach in Spanish and to share the love for the culture and language. In my free time I teach ballet folklorico for Ballet Folklorico Sol Azteca. I also love to spend time with... Read More →
LM
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching   Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

2:30pm EST

High-Impact Literacy Tutoring: Interventions and Strategies to Move Under-Performing Students Forward FULL
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
This session will report on a university partnership that entails tutors working in schools with under performing students. There will be audience participation that highlights specifically promoting love, joy and passion for reading. Further, high-impact tutoring strategies and interventions will be featured that include: Getting to know our students as the heart of differentiating tutoring.

Speakers
avatar for Margaret Policastro

Margaret Policastro

Department Chair, Professor and Director of Language and Literacy, Roosevelt University
Dr. Policastro is a professor of language and literacy at Roosevelt University where she is the director of the Literacy leadership MA program and the founding director of the Summer Reading Clinic. She teachers graduate and undergraduate courses in Language and Literacy. Dr. Policastro... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching   Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

2:30pm EST

Together We Can Do Great Things: The Journey of One Small County Doing Big Things in Literacy LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
One small rural county came together to make big things happen in literacy! Learn how the Lapeer County Literacy Team intentionally planned and implemented initiatives such as professional learning cohorts, model classroom libraries, and instructional rounds. Participants will walk away with ideas on how to optimally support teachers during initiatives and strive for high levels of participation.
Speakers
avatar for Kristal White

Kristal White

Literacy Consultant and Coach Coordinator, Lapeer County Intermediate School District
Literacy consultant and coach coordinator for LCISD since 2016. Former learning coach, k-5 literacy interventionist, and kindergarten teacher. Wife, mom of 3, and lifetime learner.
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

2:30pm EST

Transforming Literacy Education: Avondale School District's Journey to Exceptional Growth LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Join us to explore the transformative journey of the Avondale School District as we delve into the Michigan Essential Literacy Practices that propelled our district to achieve the highest growth in Oakland County on the state reading test.
Speakers
SS

Sarah Stickney

District Literacy Coach MTSS Coordinator, Avondale School District
avatar for Jessica Guerra
KC
HG
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Literacy Coaching

2:30pm EST

Using Visuals and Poetry Writing to Illuminate Student Learning FILLING
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
Come explore visual resources of an historical time, like photos from the Library of Congress. Next, participate in a poetry writing activity, starting with a group pantoum poem. Then create a pantoum, acrostic, or elegy, about a person, event, or place about that period. Leave knowing ways poetic forms help students express creatively their learning about the Five Ws and H of an historical era.
Speakers
avatar for Anna Roseboro

Anna Roseboro

Mentor/Coach
Anna J. Small Roseboro is widely known for her work with groups like the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), the Conference on English Leadership, the California Association of Teachers of English, the Michigan Council of Teachers of English, and the California Association of Independent Schools . With 40 years experience in public and private schools, she is a National Board Certified Teac... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

2:30pm EST

Cultivating Culture: Making Our ELA Classroom Culturally Responsive and Engaging LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
How can we become more aware and attentive to our classroom culture? Based on research by Dr. Ernest Morrell, we explore instructional strategies that tap students’ experiences. From interacting with literature to infusing popular culture, educators will leave this session equipped with ways to create a more culturally-responsive and engaging classroom community.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Gonzalez

Elizabeth Gonzalez

Literacy Specialist, Savvas Learning Company
Saturday March 8, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm EST
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

3:30pm EST

Exhibit Hall Exploration 3:30pm LIMITED
Saturday March 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm EST
DeVos Place
Exhibit Exploration: 3:30 - 4:00 PM
Take time to explore the Exhibit Hall from 3:30 - 4:00 PM. Visit exhibitors, discover new resources, and connect with industry professionals. Whether you're searching for innovative tools, educational materials, or valuable networking opportunities, make the most of this dedicated time to engage and learn!
Saturday March 8, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm EST
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

4:00pm EST

Authors' Garden
Saturday March 8, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Ambassador West (Amway)
Great things bloom in gardens—especially in the Authors' Garden, hosted by this is a bookstore & Bookbug! This special space is dedicated to celebrating our guest authors. Stop by to meet your favorite author and enjoy the company of fellow book lovers!
Speakers
avatar for Shannon Anderson

Shannon Anderson

Author, Brain Coach, Professor, Motivational Speaker, www.shannonisteaching.com
Shannon Anderson has taught for 25 years, from first grade through college level. She also served as the gifted coordinator for her school district and on the board of directors for the Indiana State Literacy Association. A highlight of her teaching career was being named one of the... Read More →
avatar for Alice McGinty

Alice McGinty

Author, SCBWI Michigan
As the author of over 50 books for children, both fiction and nonfiction, I love to visit schools and libraries and to feel the magic that happens when connecting with young readers! With award-winning books like Bathe the Cat, Pancakes to Parathas: Breakfast Around the World, and... Read More →
avatar for Kelly J. Baptist

Kelly J. Baptist

Kelly J. Baptist is the award-winning author of eight books for kids, including Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero, The Electric Slide and Kai, and the NAACP Image Award-nominated Eb & Flow. Kelly was the 2023 Gwen Frostic Award recipient. She lives and writes in Southwest Michigan, where her... Read More →
avatar for Vera Ahiyya

Vera Ahiyya

Presenter, The Tutu Teacher
Vera Ahiyya (thetututeacher.com) (née Corbett) was born in Germany and raised in El Paso, TX with her wonderful mother and amazing grandparents. Originally a pre-med student, Vera realized her calling as an educator at Austin College in Sherman, TX, where she majored in History and Psychology and earned her MA in... Read More →
avatar for Nancy Roop

Nancy Roop

Publisher, Developmental Texts, LLC
I publish early chapter books in a developmental format to support reading comprehension with sensory-friendly, early chapter books. Using dialog, nonfiction, and storytelling, the reader's path is wrapped around the topic which is real, relatable, and relevant!I promote neurodiversity... Read More →
avatar for Dana VanderLugt

Dana VanderLugt

Secondary Literacy Consultant, Ottawa Area ISD
Dana VanderLugt is a writer and literacy consultant for the Ottawa Area ISD who has taught reading and writing in middle school, high school, and college classrooms.Her first book, Enemies in the Orchard: A World War 2 Novel in Verse was published by Zonderkidz in September 2023... Read More →
JR

Janet Ruth Heller

Past President, Michigan College English Association
avatar for Cindy Williams Schrauben

Cindy Williams Schrauben

Author, Cindy Williams Schrauben Books
Cindy Williams Schrauben lives in west Michigan where she writes books for children that range from the truly serious to the seriously silly. When not writing or sharing her books, this award-winning author might be found dissecting her grandsons’ shenanigans for story ideas, reading... Read More →
avatar for Anna Roseboro

Anna Roseboro

Mentor/Coach
Anna J. Small Roseboro is widely known for her work with groups like the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), the Conference on English Leadership, the California Association of Teachers of English, the Michigan Council of Teachers of English, and the California Association of Independent Schools . With 40 years experience in public and private schools, she is a National Board Certified Teac... Read More →
EH

Elaina Heard

Chief Executive Officer, Watson's Way ABA
avatar for Dr. Erica Robertson

Dr. Erica Robertson

CEO, Adventures Publishing House
Adventures Publishing House is an international publishing house that provides books, content, curriculum, and experiences that educate, inspire, heal, and empower generations of young people, educators, families, and caretakers. We keep up with technological advances such as VR... Read More →
SA
avatar for John Schu

John Schu

Author and Children's Librarian, Bookelicious
John Schu has made a career out of advocating for the people and things he cares about most: kids, books, and the people that connect them. He was named a Library Journal Mover and Shaker for his dynamic interactions with students and his passionate adoption of new technologies... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Jarred Amato

Dr. Jarred Amato

Founder, Project LIT Community
Dr. Jarred Amato is an award-winning English teacher, the co-founder of Project LIT Community, a grassroots literacy movement, and the author of Just Read It: Unlocking the Magic of Independent Reading in Middle and High School Classrooms. Jarred is an avid reader and writer who enjoys... Read More →
avatar for Emmy Kastner

Emmy Kastner

Emmy is an author and illustrator of children’s books, including SO TORTOISE DUG (2025), WHILE YOU’RE ASLEEP, and A VERY BIG FALL. A former high school teacher, Emmy taught English and science in San Francisco, CA. Moving back to Michigan, she co-founded the youth writing cen... Read More →
Saturday March 8, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Ambassador West (Amway)
  Appropriate for All Levels

4:00pm EST

Books 'N Bites
Saturday March 8, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Ambassador East (Amway)
Saturday March 8, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm EST
Ambassador East (Amway)
  Appropriate for All Levels
 
Sunday, March 9
 

8:00am EDT

Registration and Check-in at DeVos Place
Sunday March 9, 2025 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
DeVos Place
If you haven’t had a chance to check in yet, we encourage you to do so on Sunday. Attendee registration and check-in will be available at the DeVos Place Registration Booth. Stop by to pick up your badge, conference materials, and any additional information you may need. Our team is excited to welcome you and help make your conference experience great!
 
Sunday March 9, 2025 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

8:00am EDT

Exhibit Hall Hours 8:00am - 12:00pm
Sunday March 9, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm EDT
DeVos Place
Take time to explore the Exhibit Hall. Visit exhibitors, discover new resources, and connect with industry professionals. Whether you're searching for innovative tools, educational materials, or valuable networking opportunities, make the most of this dedicated time to engage and learn!

Sunday March 9, 2025 8:00am - 12:00pm EDT
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

8:30am EDT

Gather in Community: Welcome & Keynote Session with Kelly J. Baptist
Sunday March 9, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
DeVos Ballroom A/B
Day 2 Conference Schedule
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Gather in Community: Welcome & Intro
Start your day by coming together for a warm welcome and exciting announcements! We’ll celebrate the 30 Under 30 Award recipients, share the results of the election, and reveal the 2026 theme.
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Keynote General Session: Kelly J. Baptist
Join us as we kick off Day 2 with a keynote session from Kelly J. Baptist. In her presentation, "The Art of Taking A Breath," Kelly will guide us to pause, reflect, and embrace the power of being present. As literacy educators, we often keep moving forward, but what happens when we intentionally take a breath? Kelly will help us explore the importance of balance, renewal, and purpose in our work every day.
Let’s gather in community, take a collective breath, and set the tone for a meaningful and enriching Day 2 of the conference!


Speakers
avatar for Kelly J. Baptist

Kelly J. Baptist

Kelly J. Baptist is the award-winning author of eight books for kids, including Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero, The Electric Slide and Kai, and the NAACP Image Award-nominated Eb & Flow. Kelly was the 2023 Gwen Frostic Award recipient. She lives and writes in Southwest Michigan, where her... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
DeVos Ballroom A/B

10:00am EDT

Exhibit Hall Exploration 10:00am
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am EDT
DeVos Place
Take time to explore the Exhibit Hall from 10:00 to 10:30 AM! Visit exhibitors, discover new resources, and connect with industry professionals. Whether you're searching for innovative tools, educational materials, or valuable networking opportunities, make the most of this dedicated time to engage and learn!
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am EDT
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

10:30am EDT

Classroom Ebb and Flow
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
DeVos Ballroom C
As literacy educators, we don't have to remind ourselves to keep breathing. But what happens when we consciously Take A Breath?
Speakers
avatar for Kelly J. Baptist

Kelly J. Baptist

Kelly J. Baptist is the award-winning author of eight books for kids, including Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero, The Electric Slide and Kai, and the NAACP Image Award-nominated Eb & Flow. Kelly was the 2023 Gwen Frostic Award recipient. She lives and writes in Southwest Michigan, where her... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
DeVos Ballroom C
  Appropriate for All Levels

10:30am EDT

Science of Reading + Birth to Age 5 Educator, Family, and Community Engagement = Building a Reading Brain FILLING
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Interested in a public media resource to promote family engagement in literacy development? Join us to view the WKAR documentary, Building the Reading Brain. We'll explore how we learn to read, backed by brain science and linguistics. Participate in guided discussions, see connections to Literacy Essentials, and receive resources for immediate use in your context. Don't miss it!
Speakers
RP
avatar for Annie Spear

Annie Spear

Project Director Michigan Learning Channel, MAISA
I am a passionate literacy educator, consultant, and author committed to supporting fellow educators, leaders, and community partners in service of children and families. My work is centered on literacy research for ages birth to age 10. Through my work with MAISA’s Literacy Essentials... Read More →
LT
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Appropriate for All Levels

10:30am EDT

Decolonizing the Bookshelf: STEM Books That Celebrate Black and Brown Brilliance LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
We'll dig into engaging, gorgeous STEM picture books and informational books that center Black and Brown experiences. We'll explore how these books can support elementary-age learners in growing STEM identities and aspirations, as well as content area learning and literacy skills. Participants will share resources for decolonizing the bookshelf and teaching for literacy and STEM equity.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Leah van Belle

Dr. Leah van Belle

Senior Consultant, Learning and Impact, Detroit Parent Network
Leah serves as Senior Consultant for Learning & Impact with Detroit Parent Network and is Part-Time Faculty at Eastern Michigan University. A proud Detroiter and first-generation high school graduate, her professional and community work have focused on literacy access and equity... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
  Early Childhood (Birth-K)   Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

10:30am EDT

Advancing Thinking through Writing Across Content Areas: Read It In, Write It Out! FILLING
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
This session will explore effective strategies for integrating explicit writing instruction across content areas. Participants will learn to implement explicit writing lessons that foster clarity and coherence in student writing, supporting them in connecting ideas, refining their understanding, and enhancing comprehension while emphasizing foundational sentence- and paragraph-level skills. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how this structured approach enhances students' writing abilities and supports their overall academic achievement across content areas. Audience: classroom teachers 2-5, literacy coach, special education, admnistrator

Speakers
avatar for Jill Erfourth

Jill Erfourth

Elementary Literacy Consultant/Coach, Utica Community Schools
RC
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)

10:30am EDT

Writing Inside the Room: Using the Reading Rope, Content Knowledge, and Shared Experiences to Build Strong Foundational Writing Skills in K-1 LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
This session will help early elementary teachers learn to simplify the process of teaching foundational writing skills by focusing on the separation of composition and transcription. The presenter will share classroom experience, strategies and resources to take writing from a stand alone subject to an integrated experience across the day.
Speakers
avatar for Nicole Cobb

Nicole Cobb

Kindergarten Teacher, Almont Community Schools
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)

10:30am EDT

Data Data Everywhere: Understanding Reading Assessments to Plan Small-Group Instruction in the Upper Grades FILLING
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
The Essential Practices tell us that we should plan targeted small group instruction based on “children’s observed and assessed needs in specific aspects of literacy development.” Two literacy coaches will share how to efficiently gather and analyze Oral Reading Fluency data to plan effective small group instruction for students in grades 3-5.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Crawford

Jessica Crawford

District Literacy Coach, Fitzgerald Public Schools
avatar for Kristie Marks

Kristie Marks

Elementary Literacy Coach, Utica Community Schools
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

10:30am EDT

Leading Change that Increases Literacy Achievement FULL
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this session literacy leaders will discover effective reading and writing strategies to boost literacy achievement for all students. The presenter will draw on her experience as a district leader, where literacy scores rose by 20% in four years including one year of virtual instruction. Participants will learn how they can drive improvements that enhance student outcomes in reading and writing.
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Literacy Coaching

10:30am EDT

Professional Book Clubs for Teachers Writers LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
Participants will learn how the Chippewa River Writing Project book club was founded and what core values could guide adult professional book clubs; this includes supporting and encouraging each other to consider best practices and implement new strategies into our diverse classrooms. We will also brainstorm strategies and provide resources for building your own beloved learning communities.
Speakers
avatar for Becky Schwartz

Becky Schwartz

High School Teacher, Springport Public Schools
Becky Schwartz is an English/Social Studies teacher at Springport High School in Jackson county Michigan. In her over 10 years of teaching, she has taught 7th - 12 grade in English, social studies, and computer science. She has been a teacher consultant with the Chippewa River Writing... Read More →
MK

Megan Kowalski

Special Education Teacher, Chicago Public Schools
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

10:30am EDT

Building Reading Identity through Reading Community in the Middle Grades LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this session, upper elementary and middle school teachers will learn tips and tricks for creating a vibrant, engaging independent reading community in their classroom. The presenter will share classroom ready strategies and activities with links and resources embedded into the presentation.
Speakers
avatar for Jenny Sanford

Jenny Sanford

Teacher, Springport Public Schools
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

10:30am EDT

Making Mischievous Writers LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this session, we will explore a very unique writing kit that includes unorthodox writing prompts and artifacts that will inspire students to write in a way that is joyful, meaningful, and a little mischievous. The presenter will share the method behind the madness for what is a truly fun and unique writing experience.
Speakers
avatar for Jonah Lane-Moore

Jonah Lane-Moore

7th Grade English Teacher, Michigan Virtual Charter Academy
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

10:30am EDT

Empathy & Digital Literacy: A Sample Unit Plan for Adolescent Developing Readers LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this session, middle school and high school teachers will be guided through a unit plan that engages developing adolescent readers in viewing and analyzing digital texts, and understanding and synthesizing multiple perspectives through writing. Participants will leave with a ready-to-implement unit plan, and will be equipped to apply these strategies to their own teaching contexts.
Speakers
avatar for Julee Boland

Julee Boland

Reading Specialist and Director of Professional Development and School Improvement, Washtenaw Technical Middle College
Hello! I’m a high school reading specialist and the Director of Professional Development and School Improvement for Washtenaw Technical Middle College in Ann Arbor. I have more than 20 years of teaching experience working with adolescent readers. At WTMC, I've conducted action research... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

10:30am EDT

Empowering Literacy with Scaffolded Writing and AI Tools Across Disciplines FULL
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
Join us for an engaging and transformative session that delves into the profound impact of scaffolded writing and AI tools on literacy across all content areas. This session is designed to equip educators with practical strategies to enhance literacy instruction, support all learners, and integrate innovative AI tools into their teaching practices.
Speakers
avatar for Jenelle Williams

Jenelle Williams

Literacy Consultant, Oakland Schools
Jenelle Williams joined the Leadership and School Improvement unit at Oakland Schools in 2017 following 18 years of experience in public schools at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. She has served as a classroom teacher, IB Middle Years Programme Coordinator, teacher... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

11:30am EDT

Exhibit Hall Exploration 11:30am FULL
Sunday March 9, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm EDT
DeVos Place
Take time to explore the Exhibit Hall from 11:30 to 12:00 NOON! Visit exhibitors, discover new resources, and connect with industry professionals. Whether you're searching for innovative tools, educational materials, or valuable networking opportunities, make the most of this dedicated time to engage and learn!
Sunday March 9, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm EDT
DeVos Place 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA

11:30am EDT

Early Career Educators' Brunch
Sunday March 9, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Ambassador West (Amway)
Sunday March 9, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Ambassador West (Amway)

11:30am EDT

Ticketed Event: Kaleidoscope Luncheon
Sunday March 9, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Ambassador East (Amway)
2025 Kaleidoscope Student Author Brunch
This year, we’re excited to celebrate our student authors with a special presentation by Emmy Kastner, a talented author and illustrator of children's books such as So Tortoise Dug (2025), While You’re Asleep, and A Very Big Fall. Emmy, a former high school teacher, co-founded the youth writing center Read and Write Kalamazoo (RAWK), which is dedicated to amplifying youth voices through reading and writing. She lives in Kalamazoo, Michigan with her family and spends her days writing and creating art in her studio above their family-owned coffee shop. This is a ticketed student event.
Speakers
avatar for Emmy Kastner

Emmy Kastner

Emmy is an author and illustrator of children’s books, including SO TORTOISE DUG (2025), WHILE YOU’RE ASLEEP, and A VERY BIG FALL. A former high school teacher, Emmy taught English and science in San Francisco, CA. Moving back to Michigan, she co-founded the youth writing cen... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT
Ambassador East (Amway)

12:30pm EDT

Empowering Student Voices: Composing and Communicating in a Digital Age
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
In today’s educational landscape, digital technologies are vital for student expression and engagement. This session will explore how students can compose and communicate using digital tools while developing essential digital literacy skills. We will discuss various platforms—like blogs, video software, and social media. that foster creativity and collaboration.
Speakers
EH

Elaina Heard

Chief Executive Officer, Watson's Way ABA
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
  Early Childhood (Birth-K)   Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

12:30pm EDT

Going Deeper with GELN’s Essential Practices in Early Literacy LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
In this session, we will explore resources and tools that support the implementation of the GELN’s Essential Instructional Practices for Early Literacy and help the practices to thrive in your school. Come engage with resources designed to take implementation to a new level.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Phelps

Heather Phelps

Early Literacy Professional Learning Coordinator, MAISA
Heather Phelps is an Early Literacy Professional Learning Coordinator at MAISA. Heather’s background includes teaching in elementary and middle school classrooms, coaching teachers in K-12 settings, and serving in multiple leadership roles at the LEA and ISD levels.  A highlight... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)

12:30pm EDT

Moving Past Book Trauma for Neurodivergent Readers! Learn How to Reduce the Struggle so Students Can Strive in Reading and Writing. FULL
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
Neurodivergent readers struggle with executive functions and self-regulation which form barriers when connecting to texts. In this session, we explore how some readers gasp while breathing in the words or freeze while breathing out the appropriate marks on paper. You will learn about co-regulation and how to use our Take Back to Class accommodation guide to build their reading and writing muscles!
Speakers
avatar for Nancy Roop

Nancy Roop

Publisher, Developmental Texts, LLC
I publish early chapter books in a developmental format to support reading comprehension with sensory-friendly, early chapter books. Using dialog, nonfiction, and storytelling, the reader's path is wrapped around the topic which is real, relatable, and relevant!I promote neurodiversity... Read More →
MC
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
  Elementary (K-5)

12:30pm EDT

Enhancing English Literacy through Content-Based Instruction and L1 Support: Strategies for Engaging Multilingual Learners LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
In a world of increasing linguistic diversity, effectively nurturing English literacy among multilingual learners, is crucial. This session will focus on two powerful strategies: employing content-based instruction (CBI) to engage students and leveraging first language (L1) literacy skills and background knowledge to support English literacy development.
Speakers
AS

Austyn Sabin

Newcomer ESL Teacher, Kalamazoo Public Schools
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

12:30pm EDT

Enhancing Student Outcomes Through Student-Centered Coaching FILLING
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)

This session explores student-centered coaching as a strategy for improving student outcomes. Key principles include setting measurable goals, using data to guide instruction, and fostering reflective, collaborative dialogue. Through ongoing data analysis, coaches and teachers monitor progress and adjust instruction to support evolving needs, focusing on continuous growth and student success.
Speakers
avatar for Jill Erfourth

Jill Erfourth

Elementary Literacy Consultant/Coach, Utica Community Schools
avatar for Kristie Marks

Kristie Marks

Elementary Literacy Coach, Utica Community Schools
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

12:30pm EDT

Teacher Book Studies: Fostering Collaborative Professional Learning LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
Discover the power of teacher book studies as collaborative professional learning. This session explores the importance of educators learning together through organized book studies, drawing from years of experience, including pandemic adaptations. Learn to set up effective book studies, nurture teacher literacy, and translate insights into classroom practice.
Speakers
avatar for Kate Rossetter

Kate Rossetter

Engagement and Literacy Educational Consultant, EduKateR- LLC
avatar for Melissa Brooks-Yip

Melissa Brooks-Yip

Education Consultant, Doctoral Candidate, Teacher Education for Action, TEA LLC
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

12:30pm EDT

Unbound: Books Not Boundaries LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Our session is for teachers, school administrators, school librarians, and public librarians. This presentation will detail a plan for how to establish a program where school students access their community library catalog in class, order books online, and the public library processes the requests and delivers the books to the schools.
Speakers
PS

Patti Skinner

Director of Library Services, West Shore Community College
avatar for Ingrid Fournier

Ingrid Fournier

Branch Manager - Scottville, Mason County District Library
After a 30 year career as public school teacher (grades 3-8), I stepped into the role of Branch Manager at the Scottville Library which is part of the Mason County District Library (Ludington and Scottville). Collaborating with our local schools, Westshore Community College, the Scottville... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Literacy Coaching

12:30pm EDT

Come to Camp! Creating an Inclusive, Positive Literacy Summer Camp Experience for Middle School Students LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
How can middle-grades students reconnect to their love of reading and writing? Invite them to a Summer Camp to rebuild their literate identities! Presenters share how an ISD-created middle school literacy program has helped students read and write more while optimizing choice, collaboration and creativity. Learn about the basic summer camp structure, low-cost resources, and how to collect data.
Speakers
avatar for Liz Lietz, MRA President

Liz Lietz, MRA President

ELA Consultant, Macomb Intermediate School District
Liz Lietz is an ELA Consultant for the Macomb Intermediate School District. She is currently serving as the President of the Michigan Reading Association, and is a Member-At-Large for NCTE's Conference on English Leadership (CEL) executive board. Liz taught high school English and... Read More →
avatar for Sara Belvedere

Sara Belvedere

Secondary English & Continuous Improvement Consultant, Macomb ISD
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

12:30pm EDT

Just Read It: Unlocking the Magic of Independent Reading LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
DeVos Ballroom C
Educator and author Dr. Jarred Amato will reflect on his literacy journey and reveal how he continues to refine his game plan, particularly in today’s algorithmic age, to engage and empower adolescent readers – one book and one conversation at a time.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jarred Amato

Dr. Jarred Amato

Founder, Project LIT Community
Dr. Jarred Amato is an award-winning English teacher, the co-founder of Project LIT Community, a grassroots literacy movement, and the author of Just Read It: Unlocking the Magic of Independent Reading in Middle and High School Classrooms. Jarred is an avid reader and writer who enjoys... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
DeVos Ballroom C
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

12:30pm EDT

Read STOP Write: Teaching Foundational Skills in a Middle Grades Multicomponent Reading Intervention LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this session, upper elementary and middle school teachers can experience a research based, multicomponent reading and writing intervention designed for middle grade students. This open source intervention uses science and social studies texts to integrate instruction in multisyllabic decoding, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing.
Speakers
AE

Amy Edlefson

Graduate Student, Michigan State University
LT
JS

John Strong

Assistant Professor, University at Buffalo
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

12:30pm EDT

Silent Sustained Reading in High School: Fostering a Love of Reading in the Classroom and Building a Culture of Literacy within the School LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this inspiring session, teachers will learn how we are creating a culture of literacy within our department and school by utilizing a strategic system of SSR, which embraces goal setting, metacognitive thinking, sharing progress, celebrating personal reading, and collective growth. As classroom teachers in the field, our resources will be embedded in the presentation for you to copy and adapt for your context. Just add books!
Speakers
avatar for Mrs. Becky Gerhart

Mrs. Becky Gerhart

High School English Teacher, Mason County Central
Teaching English full-time since 2008. Mother of 7-year-old boy/girl twins. I fly kites on the shore of Lake Michigan.
avatar for Katarina Moore
Sunday March 9, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm EDT
Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

1:45pm EDT

Braided Pathways: Funding Literacy Innovations LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Unlock the secrets to successful grant writing in this engaging session! Discover five essential principles for securing funding to fuel projects aligned with the literacy essentials. "Read it in" as you uncover key insights into the grant-writing process, and "Write it out" with powerful strategies to craft winning proposals. Plus, gain access to a Padlet packed with tools to support your journey. Best of all, you’ll learn about any grants that are open and ready for submission right now! Don’t miss this opportunity to turn your ideas into funded realities—let’s make grant writing fun and rewarding!

Speakers
avatar for Carol Ann Paul

Carol Ann Paul

Manager of State and Federal Programs and Special Populations, Wayne RESA
Carol Ann Paul is the Manager of State and Federal Programs and Special Populations at Wayne RESA, bringing over 20 years of experience in education. With a career spanning elementary through collegiate levels, she has held key roles including Reading Specialist, Executive Director... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Leah van Belle

Dr. Leah van Belle

Senior Consultant, Learning and Impact, Detroit Parent Network
Leah serves as Senior Consultant for Learning & Impact with Detroit Parent Network and is Part-Time Faculty at Eastern Michigan University. A proud Detroiter and first-generation high school graduate, her professional and community work have focused on literacy access and equity... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Appropriate for All Levels

1:45pm EDT

Where I'm From: Centering Adolescent Engagement, Voice, and Literacy Identity through a University-Community Partnership LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Presenters will share a model co-created with a community partner for engaging middle grade students in finding their voices as readers and writers through multiple modalities. Students explore their identities in creative ways while exploring literacy in a variety of genres including building from their interests and identities to compose their own music.
Speakers
MH

Maggie Hanna

Assistant Professor, Teacher Education, Eastern Michigan University
JL
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Appropriate for All Levels

1:45pm EDT

What Does Handwriting Have to Do with Reading? FULL
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
This handwriting session dives into mirror invariance (MI) and its impact on early literacy. MI allows us to recognize objects regardless of its orientation. But, this can pose challenges for distinguishing between letters that look similar, such as b, d, or p. This can make learning to read and write difficult for children. Handwriting is crucial to address MI and reading success.
Speakers
avatar for Meagan Beam

Meagan Beam

Founder, OTTER Reading
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
  Early Childhood (Birth-K)   Elementary (K-5)

1:45pm EDT

25 Culturally Relevant Read-Alouds that Motivate Students into Independent Reading and Writing FILLING
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
This session will highlight the most recent culturally relevant children's and adolescent literature. Participants will be engaged in interactive read-aloud, how to do them and featuring books that prepare students to write and become activists for change in their community. This will be an interactive session with audience participation and resources to bring back to the classroom and use.
Speakers
avatar for Margaret Policastro

Margaret Policastro

Department Chair, Professor and Director of Language and Literacy, Roosevelt University
Dr. Policastro is a professor of language and literacy at Roosevelt University where she is the director of the Literacy leadership MA program and the founding director of the Summer Reading Clinic. She teachers graduate and undergraduate courses in Language and Literacy. Dr. Policastro... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Early Childhood (Birth-K)   Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching   Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)

1:45pm EDT

Curating Dynamic & Diverse Classroom Libraries that Engage Students and Encourage Reading LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
This session provides elementary school teachers with the tools and resources needed to build a classroom library that packs a powerful punch and gets kids to spend more time reading. The presenter will share evidence-based practices, tips & tricks for library management, book acquisition suggestions, and titles that interest and inspire young readers. Attendees will have the chance to win a Birdie's Book Box filled with 35 books to take home and add to their K-5 elementary classroom libraries.
Speakers
avatar for Alyce Hartman

Alyce Hartman

Founder & Executive Director, Birdie's Bookmobile
Alyce Hartman is a dedicated urban educator and curriculum developer with over ten years of experience in teaching and the non-profit sector. She specializes in early language, literacy, and diverse and culturally relevant literature for children and young adults. She teaches STEAM... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
  Elementary (K-5)   Literacy Coaching

1:45pm EDT

Get Off to the “Write” Start! How to Support Early Career Teachers’ Writing Instruction LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
This session will provide a brief overview of one Community of Practice (CoP) focused on early career teachers and effective elementary writing instruction. The bulk of the session will outline the planning approach for this CoP as well as provide work time to plan for a CoP that could be adopted by building administrators, mentor teachers, coaches, or other teacher education professionals.
Speakers
JW

JoAnne West

Assistant Professor of Teacher Education, Saginaw Valley State University
JB
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

1:45pm EDT

Our Journey to the Science of Reading: How One School Went from Sporadic Literacy to Systematic Literacy LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
Through three different lenses - Literacy Coach & Interventionist, 2nd grade teacher, and 6th grade teacher - participants will get an in-depth look at how the CKLA curriculum + LETRS training + daily dedicated intervention/enrichment time has equipped our teachers to implement the Science of Reading (SoR) in PreK-8th grade classrooms.
Speakers
SH

Stephanie Howay

Literacy Specialist and Coach, St. Mary Mt. Clemens
JS
AK
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

1:45pm EDT

Write It Out: Telling Your Coaching Story with Data and Digital Tools LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
Data stories can be challenging, especially for literacy coaches. Deciding on data points to highlight as well as how to communicate that data to stakeholders can be daunting. This hands-on session will show literacy coaches an array of digital tools to help analyze and effectively present audience-friendly data stories for a variety of purposes. Participants are encouraged to bring a device.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Rottermond

Heather Rottermond

Assessment & Instruction Consultant, Wayne RESA
avatar for Laura Gabrion

Laura Gabrion

Literacy Consultant, Wayne RESA
Laura Gabrion is an English Language Arts Consultant for Wayne RESA. In 2017, Laura defended her dissertation in Reading Education with an emphasis on improving student writing. Her current projects and interests involve disciplinary literacy, literacy coaching, family/community engagement... Read More →
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
  Literacy Coaching

1:45pm EDT

Getting to the Heart of Disciplinary Literacy in the Secondary Classroom LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this two-part series, we’ll dive into the why and the how for integrating reading, writing and discussion in the classroom. Teachers will walk away with an understanding of literacy research and practical strategies for the classroom that link strong purposes for reading to focused writing tasks & discussions. Plus, participants will gain access to a toolkit of ready-to-use resources.
Speakers
ET

Emily Toy

6-12 ELA and Social Studies Curriculum and Instructional Technology Specialist, Warren Consolidated Schools
KB
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching

1:45pm EDT

Helping Students Connect to Text-Based Assessments and Facilitating Creative Essay Writing LIMITED
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
In this session, teachers will learn ways to help middle and high school students connect to informational texts. Teachers will then learn how to use those student connections to inspire students to write creative text-based assessment essays.
Speakers
avatar for Liz Ropp

Liz Ropp

Literacy Coach, KEYS Grace Academy
Sunday March 9, 2025 1:45pm - 2:45pm EDT
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
  Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)   Literacy Coaching
 
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    Mar 7 - 9, 2025
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    303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA
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    Ambassador East (Amway)
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    DeVos Ballroom A/B
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    DeVos Place
    Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
    Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
    Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
    Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
    Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
    Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
    Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
    Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
    Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
    Grand Gallery F (DeVos Place)
    Imperial Ballroom (Amway)
    River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
    River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
    River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
    River Overlook D (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
    River Overlook E (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
    River Overlook F (Devos Place - Upper Level)
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    Appropriate for All Levels
    Early Childhood (Birth-K)
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    Literacy Coaching
    Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)
  • Strand(s)
    Advocacy
    and Justice (DEIJ)
    Assessment and Evaluation
    Community and Family Literacy
    Culturally Responsive Instruction
    Digital Literacy
    Disciplinary Literacy
    Diverse Literature for Children and Young Adults
    Diversity
    Early Language and Literacy
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    Foundational Reading Skills
    Foundational Writing Skills
    Inclusion
    Language Comprehension
    Literacy Coaching and Leadership
    Literacy Educator Preparation
    Literacy Policy for Equity and Justice
    Multilingual and Multidialectal Literacy
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    Writing for Equity a
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    Written Expression
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Friday, March 7
Saturday, March 8
Sunday, March 9
Ambassador East (Amway)
Ambassador West (Amway)
Amway Concourse
DeVos Ballroom A/B
DeVos Ballroom C
DeVos Place
Gallery Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Gallery Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Gallery Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
Gallery Overlook D (Devos Place - Upper Level)
Grand Gallery A (DeVos Place)
Grand Gallery B (DeVos Place)
Grand Gallery C (DeVos Place)
Grand Gallery D (DeVos Place)
Grand Gallery E (DeVos Place)
Grand Gallery F (DeVos Place)
Imperial Ballroom (Amway)
River Overlook A (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
River Overlook B (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
River Overlook C (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
River Overlook D (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
River Overlook E (DeVos Place - Upper Level)
River Overlook F (Devos Place - Upper Level)
Virtual Event
  • Appropriate for All Levels
  • Early Childhood (Birth-K)
  • Elementary (K-5)
  • Literacy Coaching
  • Middle School to Post Secondary (6-12+)
  • Strand(s)
  • Advocacy
  • and Justice (DEIJ)
  • Assessment and Evaluation
  • Community and Family Literacy
  • Culturally Responsive Instruction
  • Digital Literacy
  • Disciplinary Literacy
  • Diverse Literature for Children and Young Adults
  • Diversity
  • Early Language and Literacy
  • Equity
  • Foundational Reading Skills
  • Foundational Writing Skills
  • Inclusion
  • Language Comprehension
  • Literacy Coaching and Leadership
  • Literacy Educator Preparation
  • Literacy Policy for Equity and Justice
  • Multilingual and Multidialectal Literacy
  • Social-Emotional Learning and Wellness
  • Writing for Equity a
  • Writing in the Content Areas
  • Written Expression