This session explores how grant-funded visual comprehension tools are used to support both general and special education learners in kindergarten classrooms at Amy Beverland Early Learning Center, with a focus on inclusive literacy practices that reduce barriers to language development and reading comprehension for students with diverse learning needs. Participants will learn how to design and implement adaptive comprehension books, story retelling visuals, sequencing supports, and vocabulary tools that increase access for students with disabilities, emerging language skills, and varied communication styles, while real classroom examples illustrate how these supports boost engagement, strengthen expressive language, and promote meaningful participation in CKLA-aligned instruction. The session will also highlight student outcomes and provide practical strategies for embedding reusable visual scaffolds into daily literacy routines, with an emphasis on creating equitable learning environments where all students—including those receiving special education services—can actively engage, communicate, and demonstrate understanding.
Case conferences and parent meetings often require educators and administrators to navigate complex, high-stakes conversations. In this session, participants will learn how to prepare for, engage in, and follow up on difficult discussions with families. With a focus on empathy, structure, and clarity, this session provides practical tools to help you stay grounded, professional, and effective, even in high-pressure situations.
This one-hour, hands-on professional development session explores how to empower every student to communicate and participate using multimodal language strategies. Teachers will learn the difference between analytical and gestalt language processors, practical ways to integrate visual, auditory, gestural, and digital tools—such as speech, writing, visuals, gestures, and media, as well as assistive technology—to foster inclusive communication and support diverse learners, including English Language Learners, students with disabilities, and those with varying learning styles. Through collaborative activities and real classroom examples, participants will discover ready-to-use strategies and resources that promote engagement, accessibility, and student voice across preK–12 classrooms, ensuring every student’s voice is heard and valued.
This one-hour interactive professional development session focuses on how elevating student voice can positively shape classroom behavior and culture. Teachers will explore practical strategies for incorporating student input, co-creating norms, reflecting on behavior, and engaging in restorative practices. By centering student perspectives, participants will learn how to gather authentic feedback, facilitate meaningful dialogue, and implement student-led solutions that foster respect, responsibility, and belonging while focusing on all types of language learners. Through real-world examples and collaborative activities, teachers will leave with tools to build responsive, inclusive classrooms that reduce behavior challenges, increase engagement, and ensure every student’s voice is heard and valued across preK–12 for general and special education settings.
