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Audience: Classroom Implementation (Post-Secondary) clear filter
Friday, September 11
 

12:51pm CDT

Accessibility Checkers Lie: What They Miss and Why It Matters
Friday September 11, 2026 12:51pm - 12:51pm CDT
Many education organizations rely heavily on automated accessibility checkers for websites and documents, assuming a passing score guarantees an accessible document or site. However, compliance does not equal usability. In fact, an "ADA Compliant" document is not a real thing, and automated accessibility checkers are far less accurate than you think. Automated tools are accessibility tools, not a complete accessibility solution.
This presentation will demystify document accessibility by exploring the critical differences and connections between standards like WCAG, PDF/UA, and WCAG2ICT. We will uncover exactly what accessibility checklists and checkers fail to catch or get wrong and will learn 7 essential steps to catch the accessibility issues that automated tools frequently miss. Finally, we will cover how to incorporate genuine user feedback into document creation. The ultimate goal of this session is to equip creators to produce documents that are not just technically (and legally) compliant, but usable by everyone including learners with disabilities and their families.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Ann Knettler

Dr. Ann Knettler

Vice President, Consulting, GrackleDocs
Ann currently serves as the Vice President of Consulting for GrackleDocs, a world leader in digital accessibility. An accessibility strategist with over 20 years of experience as an ADA and 504 Compliance Officer and Director of Disability Resources offices in the field of education... Read More →
Friday September 11, 2026 12:51pm - 12:51pm CDT
 
Monday, October 12
 

8:30am CDT

Portrait of an AI-Infused Learner: Envisioning an AI future
Monday October 12, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Generative AI has been a deluge of new ideas, skills, and possible outcomes for our students and teachers, but how do we sort out the important skills, knowledge, and dispositions that a student may need to be successful? Utah's Portrait of an AI Infused Learner and Educator provide a starting point for educators and leaders to explore what students may need to be successful. In this session we will explore the process including the make of the participants of how to create a portrait for your community including how to connect it to larger learning communities in your area. 
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Winters

Matthew Winters

Artificial Intelligence Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Matthew Winters is the AI Education Specialist at Utah State Board of Education (USBE). He was also the Utah Coalition for Educational Technology (UCET) President for 2022-2024, our Utah ISTE affiliate. He was one of the International Society for Technology in Education’s 20 to... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
302/303

8:30am CDT

Let's Discuss the realities of AI
Monday October 12, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Is AI a mystery or is it? Are my students prepared for the workforce? Let's have a discussion, Kyle will lead a discussion about some of the realities with AI and how we can better prepare our students for AI in the their next job!
Speakers
avatar for Kyle Kuhlers

Kyle Kuhlers

IT instructor, LInn-Mar High School
Kyle is a emerging technology enthusiast, who has been in DC 25-26. He will lead a discussion about misconceptions of AI, why AI is necessary for our students to be employable, and augmenting AI into our daily use?
Monday October 12, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
305

8:30am CDT

Puppet or puppeteer? And Other Uncomfortable Questions for the AI Era
Monday October 12, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Warning: You may leave this session with more questions than answers. This short, provocative session is a fast‑paced show‑and‑tell designed to poke the bear, ruffle a few feathers, and spark curiosity. The presenter does not claim to have answers, she simply enjoys exploring rabbit holes and inviting others to peek inside them. Through examples and thought‑provoking moments, the session raises big questions about creativity, control, and power in an AI‑shaped world. Are we directing these technologies, being shaped by them, or both at the same time? This session is not a debate or a deep discussion, it’s a brain teaser meant to intrigue, unsettle, and excite. Come ready to think, wonder, and possibly follow a rabbit hole of your own.
Speakers
avatar for Magdalena Galloway

Magdalena Galloway

Associate Professor of Instruction, University of Northern Iowa
Magdalena (Magda) Galloway is an Associate Professor of Instruction at the University of Northern Iowa’s College of Education. Driven by a passion for preparing future teachers, her work focuses heavily on instructional design, digital citizenship, media literacy, and Universal... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
304

8:30am CDT

The Accessibility Roadmap: Where Are You, What’s Working, and How It Impacts You?
Monday October 12, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Digital accessibility is a continuous journey, not a one-time fix. Join colleagues from across roles for an open, interactive dialogue on where our districts currently stand, what practical strategies are actually yielding results, who is driving the effort, and how it impacts you. Bring your wins, your roadblocks, and your questions as we share real-world experiences and discover how different teams are building truly inclusive digital environments.
Speakers
avatar for Carrie Hillman

Carrie Hillman

Vice President, ITEC
Monday October 12, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
314

9:30am CDT

NotebookLM for Schools: Your Grounded Google AI Super Tool
Monday October 12, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
Generative AI is a game-changer, but sometimes you need answers based strictly on the facts you trust. NotebookLM is different because it is "grounded" in the specific content you provide, helping to reduce hallucinations and inaccuracies. In this deep-dive session, we will learn how to create notebooks using your own Google Docs, Slides, PDFs, websites, videos and more. We will explore how to "chat" with your sources to find specific answers and summarize key concepts, and then use the powerful Studio tools to instantly generate Audio and Video Overviews, slide decks, infographics, mind maps, data tables, flashcards, quizzes, and reports. Discover practical and creative ways to use NotebookLM for teaching and learning.
Speakers
avatar for Eric Curts

Eric Curts

EdTech Trainer, Control Alt Achieve
Eric has been in education for 35 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio. He also provides keynotes, professional development, and consulting for schools, organizations, and conferences around the world. Eric's areas of... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
302/303

9:30am CDT

Accessible Aesthetics: Graphic Design with a Purpose
Monday October 12, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
Graphic design gone wrong is more than just a beauty blunder! It can distract and disengage learners! With the recent DOJ designing with accessibility in mind, understanding intentional graphic design is more important than ever! In this session, we'll explore the intersection of graphic design and accessibility, exploring the principles of accessible aesthetics and share practical tips for designing with a purpose.
Speakers
avatar for Lynn Kleinmeyer

Lynn Kleinmeyer

Digital Learning Consultant, Grant Wood AEA
I am a Digital Learning Consultant with Grant Wood AEA with a passion for all things Universal Design for Learning (UDL), instructional design, productivity, proactive & purposeful technology use, and accessibility!
Monday October 12, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
312

9:30am CDT

AI and UDL: Friend or Foe?
Monday October 12, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
This session explores leveraging AI to enhance the UDL framework, focusing on practical applications for personalized learning and diverse assessments. It critically examines AI's challenges in education, including biases and equity concerns, emphasizing human oversight. Participants will gain a nuanced understanding of AI's potential and pitfalls in achieving UDL goals.
Speakers
avatar for Patrick Donovan

Patrick Donovan

Instructional Coach, Ames Community School District
Patrick Donovan is an educator who started out as a high school science teacher but has spent time as an instructional coach, technology integration specialist, and Director of Technology. He has presented on the use of educational technology at various state, regional, and national... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
304

9:30am CDT

Who's Telling Your School's Story? Building Authentic Learning Through Student-Led Media
Monday October 12, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
I teach Digital Media and Production through our student-led Tiger Vision program at Carroll High School. My goal is to create authentic learning experiences where students use technology, creativity, and collaboration to produce work that has a real purpose and audience. Whether they're designing graphics, creating social media content, managing the Tiger Shop, or producing livestreams, students are telling the story of our school while building skills they'll use beyond high school.


In this session, I'll share how we've built a student-driven program that gives students ownership of their learning while helping them develop the communication, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills that employers value. My hope is that educators leave with practical ideas and the confidence to create authentic opportunities where students use technology to make meaningful contributions to their schools and communities.
Speakers
avatar for Kelli Schulz

Kelli Schulz

High School Business/Digital Media Teacher, Carroll Community School District
I am a 20-year educator at Carroll Community School District with experience teaching technology at both the middle and high school levels. After 10 years as the District Technology Integrationist, I know teach Digital Media and Production through the student-led Tiger Vision program... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
307

11:00am CDT

Safety is Primary: National / International Perspectives on AI
Monday October 12, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Most educators are navigating AI without a map, responding to federal directives, state policies, and classroom realities that are all moving at different speeds. Join USBE AI Education Specialist Matt Winters for a candid, field-level look at what is actually happening across the country, what it means for Utah right now, and how to lead communities through this moment with clarity, confidence, and humanity at the center.
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Winters

Matthew Winters

Artificial Intelligence Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Matthew Winters is the AI Education Specialist at Utah State Board of Education (USBE). He was also the Utah Coalition for Educational Technology (UCET) President for 2022-2024, our Utah ISTE affiliate. He was one of the International Society for Technology in Education’s 20 to... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
302/303

11:00am CDT

UDL + You: Removing Barriers for Learners
Monday October 12, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Learner variability is the norm—not the exception. Experience the power of jagged learner profiles and leave with a practical UDL framework and proactive design questions you can use immediately to remove barriers and expand access for all learners.
Speakers
avatar for Lynn Kleinmeyer

Lynn Kleinmeyer

Digital Learning Consultant, Grant Wood AEA
I am a Digital Learning Consultant with Grant Wood AEA with a passion for all things Universal Design for Learning (UDL), instructional design, productivity, proactive & purposeful technology use, and accessibility!
Monday October 12, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
312

11:00am CDT

Click Less, Teach More: Tech Tools Worth Your Time
Monday October 12, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Educators do not need more tools; we need the right tools. In this fast-paced, practical session, discover classroom technology tools that genuinely save time, increase engagement, support creativity, and make teaching more efficient. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas, classroom applications, and strategies that help teachers streamline workflows while creating meaningful learning experiences for students.
Speakers
avatar for Nicole DeGidio

Nicole DeGidio

Teacher/Technology Coach, Clayton Ridge Community School District
Nicole DeGidio is the  6-12 Technology Coach, MS Computer Science teacher and HS English and Digital Media teacher at Clayton Ridge Community Schools. Passionate about empowering students through technology, Nicole creates authentic, real-world learning experiences that blend innovation... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
306

1:30pm CDT

The "Gem in AI" - Google Gemini for Schools
Monday October 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Discover Google’s powerful, free generative AI tool and how it can assist educators and students. In this session we will do a hands-on deep dive in Gemini including prompting, educational uses, fact checking, deep research, guided learning, the canvas tool (for slideshows, coding, and more), custom Gems, Gemini apps, image and audio generation, Gemini tools (in Classroom, NotebookLM, and other Google tools), data privacy features, and more.
Speakers
avatar for Eric Curts

Eric Curts

EdTech Trainer, Control Alt Achieve
Eric has been in education for 35 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio. He also provides keynotes, professional development, and consulting for schools, organizations, and conferences around the world. Eric's areas of... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
302/303

1:30pm CDT

Most Human to Least Human: An Interactive AI Ethics Lab
Monday October 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
In 1997 a computer beat the world chess champion, and within a week people were explaining that chess had never really been about intelligence anyway. We've done that every time since. Face recognition isn't understanding. Composing isn't knowing what you made. Researchers call it the AI effect: the moment a machine can do something, we stop counting it as intelligence.
So where do you put the line?
Working in small groups with a physical card deck, you'll sort ten human capacities from least to most uniquely human and discover your table can't agree, and that the argument was never about AI at all. Then you'll rank them again on your own and take your ranking to an AI that ranked the same ten, and argue with it about the biggest gap.
You'll leave with one capacity you'd fight to protect, one change you'll make to protect it, and a card deck you can print and run with your own students.
Speakers
avatar for Aaron Maurer

Aaron Maurer

STEM Lead, MBAEA
STEM Lead Instructor on a mission to bring wonder and play back into the classroom. Known as “Coffeechug” to the education community, this lifelong learner with over 20 years of classroom experience thrives on sharing his craft with the world as teacher, website community creator... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
307

1:30pm CDT

Professional Educator K-12 Classroom Engaging Activities
Monday October 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Participate in a student activity and then leave with a list to level-up your student engagement and curiosity in Computer Science 
Speakers
avatar for Kyle Kuhlers

Kyle Kuhlers

IT instructor, LInn-Mar High School
Kyle is a emerging technology enthusiast, who has been in DC 25-26. He will lead a discussion about misconceptions of AI, why AI is necessary for our students to be employable, and augmenting AI into our daily use?
Monday October 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
308

1:30pm CDT

Interactive Learning in Minutes: Mastering Pear Deck for Engaged K-12 Classrooms
Monday October 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
Whether you're new to Pear Deck or looking to deepen your practice, this session has something for you. We'll walk through real educator and student workflows, explore AI-powered features that save time and boost learning, and address how to use Pear Deck mindfully within Iowa's screen time framework. Leave with a clear implementation roadmap and confidence to get started.
Speakers
avatar for Olivia Pasquariello

Olivia Pasquariello

5th Grade Teacher, North Polk Community School District
Hello! I am in my 3rd year of teaching and have spent all three years teaching 5th grade in the North Polk Community School District. I graduated from Iowa State University in 2024 with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, a minor in Learning Technologies, and endorsements... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
316

2:30pm CDT

AI Profile of a Graduate
Monday October 12, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
ISTE + ASCD, now International Society for Transforming Education, released the AI Profile of a Graduate at our summer conference! This session is designed to share their AI Profile of an AI-Ready Graduate and take a deeper look at the 13 skills students need in order to use AI to thrive in each of the six essential human roles of Learner, Researcher, Synthesizer, Problem-Solver, Connector, and Storyteller. We will share ways you can align this work to your Profile of a Graduate and support the development of these essentials skills and competencies in each learners' classroom experience. This will be an interactive session with time to plan on incorporating these skills into their curriculum and daily instructional practices, leaving with something they can implement in their classroom the very next day!
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Mona Yanacheak

Dr. Mona Yanacheak

Executive Director, Iowa ALTL
Serving in educational roles in K-12, postsecondary, and graduate-level coursework, I continue to be amazed at how much there is that we can learn and grow as professional educational leaders across our country! I am thrilled to lead an organization of innovators and educational administrators... Read More →
Monday October 12, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
314
 
Tuesday, October 13
 

8:30am CDT

Do-It-Yourself Accessibility: Creating Digital Documents for All Students
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Learn the basics of creating digital documents that are usable for students with and without disabilities. This session will introduce several fundamental practices for Word and Google Docs, including proper heading structure, meaningful links, and alt text. These practices improve access to teacher-created content for students who use assistive technology, such as text to speech, screen readers, and switch access. Leave with new skills for creating accessible documents, as well as free resources to go deeper and expand your skillset.
Speakers
avatar for Rob Carr

Rob Carr

Accessibility Specialist, WebAIM and NCADEMI, Utah State University
Rob Carr is the Strategic Accessibility Coordinator at WebAIM and a Digital Accessibility Specialist at NCADEMI, the Office for Special Education Programs technical assistance center dedicated to assisting pre-K-12 state and local education agencies to provide more accessible educational... Read More →
avatar for Cynthia Curry

Cynthia Curry

Previously submitted, Previously submitted
Previously submitted
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
312

8:30am CDT

Your AI Treasure Chest: Creating & Sharing Gemini Gems
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Gems are reusable, custom prompts that save your best AI workflows for instant access, and they are a game-changer for educators! In this deep-dive session you will learn how to create your own Gems, with tips for effective prompting and uploading reference files. We'll also cover how to share your Gems with colleagues and how schools can build a shared, high-quality Gem repository for staff and students. To see their full potential, we will tour my "EduGems" website and demonstrate powerful, ready-to-use prompts for lesson hooks, rubric generation, DOK analysis, and even creating AI-powered classroom games. 
Speakers
avatar for Eric Curts

Eric Curts

EdTech Trainer, Control Alt Achieve
Eric has been in education for 35 years, and currently serves as a Technology Integration Specialist for SPARCC in North Canton, Ohio. He also provides keynotes, professional development, and consulting for schools, organizations, and conferences around the world. Eric's areas of... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
302/303

8:30am CDT

CSTA Membership: Heads Up as to What You Get as a Member
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Welcome to CSTA! We are so excited that you are a member (or are considering it). This session consists of making sure you have everything you need to access all of your member benefits. We'll provide you with resources to help you access (most of) everything available to you as a CSTA Member. Taking advantage of the plethora of member benefits is what we're striving to provide. 
Speakers
avatar for Henry Ramirez

Henry Ramirez

Central Region Chapter Support Coordinator, CSTA
I retired from teaching in 2021, with thirty years’ experience in education (9 yrs-bilingual/ESL teacher, 17 yrs-Instructional Technology Specialist, and 4 yrs-MS CS teacher). I served as the vice president of CSTA Greater Houston for four years (still a member/leader).Upon retiring... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
308

8:30am CDT

Gemini in Action: Streamlining Workflows & Elevating Productivity in Google Workspace
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Discover how integrating Gemini across Gmail, Drive, Docs, and Slides can transform your daily educational workflow to save hours on manual tasks. This interactive session demonstrates practical strategies for leveraging AI to clear inbox clutter, rapidly locate and summarize drive resources, draft routine documentation, and auto-generate presentations. Educators will leave with actionable prompt frameworks and clear, real-world workflows they can implement immediately to reclaim valuable time.
Speakers
avatar for Hanna Hollamby

Hanna Hollamby

Digital Learning Consultant, Heartland AEA
Heartland AEA Digital Learning Consultant
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
307

8:30am CDT

Leveling Up Leadership: 5 Engaging Protocols to Elevate Your Professional Practice
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
It is challenging to lead educators who are facing so many challenges in their classrooms or to lead other educational leaders who are putting everything they have into supporting and bringing out the best of each of our teachers and learners every day! Come and learn 5 easy and engaging protocols that will get your team meetings off to a great start as well as some messages that can set the tone and expectations for engagement and collaboration amongst your staff, leadership teams, or even in your classroom. This session will be highly interactive and you will be able to leave with ideas and tools you can use the very next day!
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Mona Yanacheak

Dr. Mona Yanacheak

Executive Director, Iowa ALTL
Serving in educational roles in K-12, postsecondary, and graduate-level coursework, I continue to be amazed at how much there is that we can learn and grow as professional educational leaders across our country! I am thrilled to lead an organization of innovators and educational administrators... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
314

8:30am CDT

The "Vibe Coding" Shift: Automating Google Tools with AI
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
Do you think Java Script is the writing on a Starbucks cup? Is HTML all IDK to you? 
If you're a teacher, counselor, coach, or administrator who loves learning tech but has no coding experience, welcome to the era of vibe coding. Learn how AI can act as your personal programmer! Vibe coding can unlock new capabilities in your Google Workspace. Come to this session for an introduction to how a code can be bound to a Google App. See practical examples of how Google Apps Script can automate tasks, create custom features, and integrate Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, and Gmail.  
Speakers
avatar for Kim Kult

Kim Kult

Technology Integration Coordinator, North Polk CSD
Kim Kult is the Tech Integration Coordinator for the North Polk Community School District. She has been an educator for 20 years, with experience as a science teacher, instructional coach, and tech integrationist. She leads professional learning around how technology can be used to... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 8:30am - 9:20am CDT
316

9:30am CDT

A Sea of Choices: Considering data privacy, human in the loop, and research in AI use
Tuesday October 13, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
The world of AI, particularly generative AI, has grown significantly over the last year to an almost overwhelming position. What does a classroom educator, IT team member, or administrator need to understand when examining AI tools for use in the classroom environment? We will explore the basics of data privacy, engagement in research backing, and how to keep a human in the loop with a technology that increasingly asking for decisions to be taken away from users. We will dive deep into emerging best practices for vetting tools and engaging with those tools safely and with an eye on what the developing research in telling us. 
Speakers
avatar for Matthew Winters

Matthew Winters

Artificial Intelligence Education Specialist, Utah State Board of Education
Matthew Winters is the AI Education Specialist at Utah State Board of Education (USBE). He was also the Utah Coalition for Educational Technology (UCET) President for 2022-2024, our Utah ISTE affiliate. He was one of the International Society for Technology in Education’s 20 to... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
302/303

9:30am CDT

The Output Is Not the Learning
Tuesday October 13, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
Bring one assignment you actually give. We'll hand it to AI and get back a complete response in about eight seconds — organized, on topic, free of errors. It would earn a B.


Then you'll take it apart in ninety seconds, because you can see what's missing and a chatbot cannot teach anyone to do that.


Most AI guidance prepared us for the wrong failure. We were told to watch for fabricated sources and bad math as things you catch by checking. This is different: there's nothing to catch. It's correct all the way down with no thinking in it anywhere.
The essay was never the learning. It was the best evidence of learning we had, and for a century it was excellent evidence. That link broke. Your teaching didn't.


You'll leave having added one line of sight to one assignment, in wording you'd really use, plus a card of ready-to-paste language for four more.
Speakers
avatar for Aaron Maurer

Aaron Maurer

STEM Lead, MBAEA
STEM Lead Instructor on a mission to bring wonder and play back into the classroom. Known as “Coffeechug” to the education community, this lifelong learner with over 20 years of classroom experience thrives on sharing his craft with the world as teacher, website community creator... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 9:30am - 10:20am CDT
305

11:00am CDT

As Good as It Gets: Navigating the Laws and Best Practices of Digital Accessibility
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Is your district's digital ecosystem Livin' la Vida Loca, or is it stuck in a maze of inaccessible PDFs, video platforms, and public portals? Digital accessibility in K–12 isn't just about your public website! It impacts every classroom app, student portal, and digital resource across your entire district. It’s time to stop sayin' I Want It That Way and start building an environment that works for Everybody (yeah!).
We’ll break down federal law, giving you the real deal on WCAG best practices for all staff members. Whether you're in IT, communications, the classroom, or leadership, join us to make your district's tech da bomb. U Can't Touch This level of inclusion!
Speakers
avatar for Jamie Petersen

Jamie Petersen

Technology Integrationist, Woodward-Granger CSD/ITEC Board of Directors
Hi! My name is Jamie Petersen and I am the K-12 Technology Integrationist for Woodward-Granger Community Schools in Central Iowa. I also sit on the ITEC (Iowa Technolgy Education Connection) Board of Directors. These roles allow me to serve educators in Iowa and around the country... Read More →
avatar for Carrie Hillman

Carrie Hillman

Vice President, ITEC
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
312

11:00am CDT

Chuck Norris’ Secret Sauce to Sanity→ Productivity Smackdown
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Karate kick, round house and open a can of productivity awesomeness to supercharge your sanity. We all know that Chuck Norris is legendary for opening “a can” on any would-be challengers. When it comes to managing our work as educators, we can channel our inner Chuck Norris. 

This high energy smackdown session will feature head-to-head productivity tips, tricks and strategies to open “a can” on time sucking tasks. From email and organization to curation and feedback, walk away with Chuck Norris approved skills that will revolutionize your productivity.  
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Fenstermaker

Andrew Fenstermaker

Instructional Technology Coordinator, Iowa City Community School District
Andrew Fenstermaker is an influential leader in instructional technology, AI integration, and educational transformation. As an Instructional Technology Coordinator, he collaborates with administrators, curriculum coordinators, teachers, and students to operationalize best practices... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
302/303

11:00am CDT

Helping Schools Make Sense of AI
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
AI conversations often begin with tools, policies, and concerns about misuse. While those conversations are important, they don't always help educators answer a more fundamental question: What do we want AI to support?

This session explores a practical, human-centered framework built around four questions that can help educators make thoughtful decisions about AI while keeping learning at the center of the conversation. Drawing from the ongoing work of Dallas Center-Grimes Schools, participants will explore how preserving what matters, building confidence, balancing consistency with professional judgment, and continuously learning from feedback can help schools navigate AI in ways that fit their own context.

Rather than offering one model to replicate, this session focuses on questions and ideas that teachers, instructional coaches, building leaders, and district teams can adapt to support meaningful learning, student thinking, and responsible AI use.
Speakers
avatar for Alex Glade

Alex Glade

Curriculum Facilitator, Dallas Center-Grimes Community School District
Alex Glade is a Curriculum Facilitator with the Dallas Center-Grimes Community School District who is passionate about helping educators thoughtfully integrate technology to support meaningful learning. With more than 20 years of experience in education as a classroom teacher, digital... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
305

11:00am CDT

Stop Doing That Manually (There's a Script for That)
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
You're copying and pasting the same data into three different spreadsheets. You're sending the same email to 47 parents. You're manually checking a gradebook that updates every night. What if Google just... did that for you?
Google Apps Script is a free, built-in tool that connects your Google Workspace apps and automates the repetitive tasks that eat up your time. No coding background required. In this session, you'll see real examples built for schools: automated parent communication, missing assignment trackers, mail merges, and more. Walk away with working templates and the confidence to start automating your own workflows.


You'll leave with:
  • A clear picture of what Google Apps Script can (and can't) do
  • Real-world examples you can take and use immediately
  • A starter template to customize for your own classroom or building
Speakers
CS

Celeste Scott

K-12 Technology Integrationist, Indianola Community School District
Placeholder bio
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
315

11:00am CDT

The intersectionality of Digital Accessibility and Universal Design for Learning
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Now more than ever we rely on digital learning environments that leverage online technology like Learning Management Systems, digital textbooks and materials, online discussion boards, and collaboration through online video interaction.  This, coupled with the updated Americans with Disabilities Act Title II digital accessibility requirement has caused educators to re-think how the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can be applied to make online education accessible and engaging for students from different backgrounds, cultures, identities, and abilities.  While conversation and training on UDL is now more welcomed at our institutions, conversations and training about digital accessibility still receives significant pushback.  


Our institutions often miss the key intersectionality of digital accessibility and Universal Design for Learning and how, in many instances, the Principles of UDL go hand-in-hand with creating an accessible online learning environment.  


This session provides key topics, techniques, and takeaways for designing and providing an online experience that is as accessible as possible for all students, prospective students, stakeholders, potential donors, and the community all while minimizing risk and becoming a leader in the world of digital learning. Participants will leave with actionable strategies they can immediately put in place to increase engagement in digital accessibility practices when creating and facilitating online courses using the lens of Universal Design for Learning.


Speakers
avatar for Dr. Ann Knettler

Dr. Ann Knettler

Vice President, Consulting, GrackleDocs
Ann currently serves as the Vice President of Consulting for GrackleDocs, a world leader in digital accessibility. An accessibility strategist with over 20 years of experience as an ADA and 504 Compliance Officer and Director of Disability Resources offices in the field of education... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
311

1:30pm CDT

Digital Feedback in the Age of AI
Tuesday October 13, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
This session explores providing effective digital feedback, with and without AI. It focuses on applying principles of actionable, specific, timely, and targeted feedback in digital environments. Participants will gain strategies to improve feedback practices and empower student learning in the AI era. Feedback is too important not to do well.
Speakers
avatar for Patrick Donovan

Patrick Donovan

Instructional Coach, Ames Community School District
Patrick Donovan is an educator who started out as a high school science teacher but has spent time as an instructional coach, technology integration specialist, and Director of Technology. He has presented on the use of educational technology at various state, regional, and national... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 1:30pm - 2:20pm CDT
305

1:30pm CDT

Hands-On Digital Accessibility: Build, Fix, and Apply in Real Time Workshop
Tuesday October 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
Creating an accessible digital environment isn't just an IT task. It has to be a district-wide priority and approach. Whether you work in communications, curriculum, classroom instruction, school administration, or technical support, your digital content impacts students, families, and staff every day.
This interactive, workshop-style session takes a practical approach to K–12 digital accessibility standards (including ADA Title II compliance). Instead of sitting through a continuous presentation, we will break down the process into clear, manageable steps. We'll introduce one core topic at a time and immediately give you dedicated working time to apply what you just learned directly to your own district materials, course pages, documents, or platforms.

Who Should Attend? Everyone! This session is open to all district staff with no technical background required. If you create, post, or manage digital content for students, parents, or colleagues, this workshop will give you immediate, practical tools to make your work inclusive for all.

What to Bring: Please bring a laptop and a few existing district documents, course materials, or web pages you would like to work on during the session!
Speakers
avatar for Rob Carr

Rob Carr

Accessibility Specialist, WebAIM and NCADEMI, Utah State University
Rob Carr is the Strategic Accessibility Coordinator at WebAIM and a Digital Accessibility Specialist at NCADEMI, the Office for Special Education Programs technical assistance center dedicated to assisting pre-K-12 state and local education agencies to provide more accessible educational... Read More →
avatar for Carrie Hillman

Carrie Hillman

Vice President, ITEC
avatar for Cynthia Curry

Cynthia Curry

Previously submitted, Previously submitted
Previously submitted
Tuesday October 13, 2026 1:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
312

2:30pm CDT

From AI Tools to AI Workflows
Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
You've been shown dozens of AI tools in the last two years. The number you still use is probably one or two.
That isn't a discipline problem. "What's the best AI tool?" has a shelf life of about six weeks with the model updates, the pricing changes, your district blocks it. The question that doesn't expire is: what's the workflow I want to own?
This session is a four-step pattern for answering that with Name, Map, Mark, Lock and three of the four steps never touch a product, which is exactly why workflows built this way survive when the tools change.
You'll watch one real workflow built live from scratch: sixty exit tickets, clustered by misconception instead of by score, running automatically every Friday afternoon. Then you'll design your own, and mark the steps where your professional judgment has to stay.
Tools are rented. Workflows are owned.
Speakers
avatar for Aaron Maurer

Aaron Maurer

STEM Lead, MBAEA
STEM Lead Instructor on a mission to bring wonder and play back into the classroom. Known as “Coffeechug” to the education community, this lifelong learner with over 20 years of classroom experience thrives on sharing his craft with the world as teacher, website community creator... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
305

2:30pm CDT

Extend. Explore. Experiment.: Igniting Innovation Beyond the School Day
Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
In this session, participants will discover how engaging, hands-on STEM experiences were designed to spark curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving for 6-12 learners. From robotics and engineering challenges to coding, digital creation, drones, makerspace activities, and emerging technologies, this session shares practical strategies for building a high-impact after-school program that students are excited to attend. Walk away with ideas for program structure, student engagement, funding opportunities, and scalable STEM activities.
Speakers
avatar for Nicole DeGidio

Nicole DeGidio

Teacher/Technology Coach, Clayton Ridge Community School District
Nicole DeGidio is the  6-12 Technology Coach, MS Computer Science teacher and HS English and Digital Media teacher at Clayton Ridge Community Schools. Passionate about empowering students through technology, Nicole creates authentic, real-world learning experiences that blend innovation... Read More →
Tuesday October 13, 2026 2:30pm - 3:20pm CDT
306
 
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