Induction Mini Conference -January 29, 2025: Full Schedule

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4:15pm PST

Actions Speak Louder Than Words: Aligning your classroom policies with your values

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 846 0821 8607 Password: I<3Math

I tell my students what I value, but do my classroom policies communicate something different? In this session, we'll reflect on how well our values and classroom policies align. Participants will leave with a stronger vision for teaching and learning in their classrooms and strategies for aligning actions with words.

Session Resources

Speakers

Kristie Donavan

Math Teacher + TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Kristie has been a math educator in the Irvine Unified School District for 18 years, as a teacher at Woodbridge High School and as a Secondary Math Specialist (TOSA) at the district office. She has experience teaching every high school course and expertise in instruction and assessment... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

AI in Your Classroom

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Name

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 813 4625 7194 Password: veZ6ir

This presentation on AI literacy and productivity for teachers introduces Generative AI and its applications in IUSD, focusing on data privacy and prompt engineering with tools like MagicSchool.AI and Google Gemini. Resources will be provided to help teachers develop prompts for specific instructional needs.

Session Resource

Speakers

Erica Dietz

EdTech TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

A 15-year veteran of Irvine Unified School District with teaching credentials in Social Science and Library Information Science, Erica has a passion for leveraging technology to enhance learning. From the classroom to her work as a Teacher Librarian at Woodbridge and South Lake and... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

Building Classroom Communities

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 820 3141 8706 Password: eQ69AH

Easy ways to connect with students, get their feedback, and help them take care of each other. I will share tips, practices, and resources for engaging kids and letting them know you care about them and help them care about their classroom "family". I will share how I use class meetings, class jobs, check-ins, and other fun activities to create community. Session resources: https://bit.ly/ClassConnect2025

Speakers

Kim Anthony

TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Kim, a 31-year teaching veteran with 24 years at Springbrook in IUSD, is passionate about empowering students and supporting teachers. As an EdTech mentor, literacy mentor, and now TOSA in Data and Assessment, she helps educators implement engaging strategies and best practices with... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

Check-in/Check-out (CICO)

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Name

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 864 6377 7480 / Passcode: 10S8Cb

Join me for an engaging training session focused on the Check-In/Check-Out (CICO) intervention model, designed to support students in developing self-regulation skills and improving their academic and behavioral outcomes. This training will provide teachers with practical strategies to implement CICO effectively in their classrooms.

Session Resources

Speakers

Taylor McGowan

TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

As a behavior TOSA for the Mental Health and Wellness Department, Taylor works with school sites to collaboratively navigate and shape challenging behaviors while also promoting functional alternatives to meet each student's individual needs. Additionally, Taylor adopts a whole-human... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

Classroom Visuals to Support All Learners

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 893 4209 5784 Passcode: gB4dR9

This session will be an introduction to utilizing visuals in the classroom to support varying needs in the classroom. We will briefly cover visuals for the classroom environment, classroom expectations, schedules, and routines, and visuals to support behavior and SEL.

Speakers

Lucia Pimentel

Education Specialist, Irvine Unified School District

Lucia Pimentel is a continuous learner and educator with a passion for behavior intervention supports for students of all ages with varying needs. She loves professional learning and collaborating across departments with various service providers, in order to provide the most comprehensive... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

I have to do What... Gen Ed Teacher Responsibilities in Supporting Students with IEPs

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 738 701 3958
This session will focus on the roles and responsibilities of general education teachers in supporting students with IEPs within the classroom. This will include ensuring your input is included when creating IEPs for students within your classroom, your responsibilities as a general education teacher in supporting students with IEPs, and implementing accommodations and modifications within a general education classroom.

Speakers

Evan Crayton

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Evan Crayton has worked in IUSD for 17 years in various positions throughout this time, including Instructional Assistant, ESN Education Specialist, and is currently a teacher on special assignment for the Special Education department supporting the district’s Extensive Support... Read More →

Elise Green

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Elise Green is a teacher on special assignment supporting special education programming. Elise is a product of Irvine schools and began her career as an education specialist teaching students with extensive support needs at the secondary level just over 15 years ago. Elise also serves... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

Itinerant Teachers: Opportunities for Communities

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Name

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 775 422 0322 Password: singing123

This presentation provides practical strategies for itinerant teachers to navigate the challenges of working across multiple sites. It emphasizes building strong relationships with staff and administrators, maintaining effective and positive communication, and managing logistical details with adaptability. Tips include engaging with office staff, participating in school events, collaborating with administrators on student interventions, and staying informed through newsletters. The goal is to foster connections, set boundaries with kindness, and create a supportive network to help itinerant teachers feel integrated and successful in their roles.

Speakers

Miguel Chicas

4-8 Vocal Specialist, Irvine Unified School District

Miguel Chicas is a choir director in the Irvine Unified School District, teaching middle school choral music at Beacon Park K-8 School. He is also an Elementary Music Teacher delivering vocal instruction to 4-6th grade students at Beacon Park K-8 School, Cypress Village Elementary... Read More →

Katherine Findlay

Music Educator, Irvine Unified School District

Katherine Findlay Hagstrom, a credentialed music educator, music therapist, and advocate for equitable access to arts education, has taught PK-6th grade music in public schools for 11 years. She has received Irvine Unified’s Teaching in Excellence Award, SCSBOA Rising Star Award... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

Sensation Station: Exploring the Power of the Sensory Play!

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 753 728 5044. Password:MRSWPK1

This session will explain the power of sensory play for student engagement, meeting the needs of sensory seekers, and for fun science experiments. It will also include recipes and ideas to create sensory activities in your classroom that you can easily implement right away.

Session Resources

Speakers

Marla Weingart

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Marla has been teaching Transitional Kindergarten (now PK) since its inception in Irvine Unified, and previously worked as the Early Childhood Education Specialist in the School Readiness Program at the Early Childhood Learning Center where she taught a variety of classes and workshops... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Early Elementary (PK-3)

4:15pm PST

Small Groups, Big Wins: K-2 Success

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link (there is no password)

This session is designed for K-2 teachers seeking practical and straightforward approaches for managing small group structures in the classroom. Whether you're new to navigating small groups, need ideas on what resources we already have, or looking to enhance your current approach, this session provides tools and insights for immediate classroom impact.

Session Resources
Session Resources

Speakers

Nikkita Fox

Literacy TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Nikkita Fox is the Elementary Literacy TOSA and leads the work on the Primary Literacy Project and Literacy Launchpad: Tier 2 Tactics. She is passionate about the interdisciplinary body of evidence based-research of how we learn to read and was an integral part of the first ever Science... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Early Elementary (PK-3)

4:15pm PST

Spark Learning with Smart Seating: Optimizing Classroom Configurations

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Name

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID- 471 754 6326, Passcode: Farag2

Spark Learning with Smart Seating. Ready to create a classroom setup that inspires your students and supports their success? This fun and interactive session will give you practical tips and tricks for arranging your seating and layout to match any furniture configuration. You’ll walk away with:

Ready-to-use templates for seating charts and floor plans.
Customizable layouts to fit your teaching style and classroom needs.
Expert tips to balance collaboration, focus, and movement.

Session Resource

Speakers

Kim Farag

Literacy TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Kim Farag is a passionate literacy advocate and IUSD veteran, currently serving as an elementary literacy TOSA with a mission to ignite a lifelong love of reading in every young mind she encounters. In her exciting new professional learning series, Middle Grade Mavens, Kim empowers... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Elementary (K-6)

4:15pm PST

Unlocking the Potential of English Learners: Tips and Tools for Success

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 346 835 0759; No password

In today’s classrooms, English Learners bring diverse perspectives and unique strengths that can enrich learning for everyone. This session equips educators with practical strategies to ensure their ELs thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Participants will explore key GLAD strategies that are easy to implement, see examples of sentence deconstruction and questioning routines in action, and learn techniques for fostering strong relationships with EL students and their families. Additionally, discover classroom management approaches that create inclusive, supportive environments where all students feel valued and capable of success. Walk away with tools you can use tomorrow to empower your English Learners and elevate your teaching!

Speakers

Brooke Waldrup

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

My experience as an educator has given me a strong foundation in supporting English Learners and developing engaging, standards-aligned lessons for upper elementary students. Currently, I teach a 4/5 comb class at Canyon View Elementary, where I also support our English Learner community... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Elementary (K-6)

4:15pm PST

What's In and Out for Effective Tier 1 Math Instruction

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Name

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 861 6597 4581
Password p1zXWC

How can we make the best use of our time when teaching math? What are the best practices for teaching based on how children learn math? Come learn about what is in and what is out when it comes to effective math instruction and how to make the best use of time in your math block to help you teach and your students learn with confidence.

Session Resources

Speakers

Michele Ogden

Teacher, Math Mentor, Irvine Unified School District

Michele Ogden is an IUSD elementary math mentor and 2nd and 3rd grade teacher at Solis Park. She is passionate about getting every student thinking in a joyful learning community. Her experience in IUSD includes being an elementary principal, Coordinator of K-12 Math and Science... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Elementary (K-6)

4:15pm PST

Reading Strategies for the World Language Classroom

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 392 897 9424

During this session, we will explore reading strategies to utilize before reading, during reading and after reading. The goal of being thoughtful about which reading strategy to utilize will increase student proficiency.

Session Resources

Speakers

Otto Lopez

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Mr. Lopez is a dedicated educator with eight years of teaching experience, specializing in Spanish language instruction. He currently teaches Spanish 2 and Spanish 3 at Portola High School in Irvine, CA. Mr. Lopez focuses on fostering students' language proficiency and cultural awareness... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Middle School & Secondary (6-12)

4:15pm PST

Data Chats

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 322 306 8678 no password

Data chats empower students to reflect on their progress, set goals, and take ownership of their learning journey. In this session, you'll discover how to help students gather meaningful data, engage in productive conversations, and set actionable goals for improvement. We’ll explore how to use positive, growth-oriented language to foster reflection and accountability. Walk away with practical strategies to make data chats a natural and impactful part of your classroom routine, cultivating a culture of continuous growth and achievement.

Speakers

Kathryn Rush

Math Teacher/Mentor, Irvine Unified School District

I am a dedicated math educator at Woodbridge High School, currently in my 10th year of teaching. My passion for learning extends beyond teaching—I value being both a learner myself and an advocate for students. Throughout my career, I have navigated the evolution of teaching practices... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12)

4:15pm PST

Improving Communication with Parents of English Learner Students

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 897 2515 1446 Password: wmk0sW

You want to reach all families, but language barriers are a real concern. Learn about the tools the district provides to facilitate effective and meaningful communication with parents of English learners.

Speakers

Georgia Brittain

TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Georgia Brittain has been an educator for 19 years, as both a Spanish and ELD classroom teacher and TOSA. With experience in public, private, charter, and international schools at a variety of grade levels, Georgia offers diverse perspectives on language learning.

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12)

4:15pm PST

Inside Our Cotaught Classroom: Ready to Implement Strategies for your Collab and Cotaught Classes

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 397 318 7698 Password: Coteach2

This session is for both secondary general education and special ed teachers.

In this session we will break down how we run our cotaught classroom and share strategies that can leverage collaborative teaching in collab and cotaught classes. Liz will provide insight as the Ed Specialist and Ally as the Gen Ed teacher. We will reserve time to answer any questions about collaborative teaching, differentiation, and accommodation implementation.

Session Resource

Speakers

Liz Dhiman

Education Specialist, Irvine Unified

Liz is an education specialist with over 15 years of teaching experience. She has a passion for co-teaching math and supporting all students. She believes in the powerful impactful of collaboration and the work our teachers do. Liz has grown up traveling and has lived in California... Read More →

Ally Hatter

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Hi, I’m Ally! This is my fourth year teaching math at Woodbridge High School, and my first teaching AVID. I recently earned a master’s degree where I focused on integrating AVID strategies with standards-based grading and equitable math instruction. Currently, I’m excited to... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12), Special Education (7-12)

4:15pm PST

Go on a Safari: Hunting Down the Most Commonly Requested SpEd Documents

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 873 4430 2229 Password: 1qLg3r

This presentation will guide you to easily locate the most frequently requested Special Education documents, saving you valuable time and effort.

Speakers

Joyce Lam

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Joyce has been teaching for the past 13 years and holds both Mild/Moderate and Moderate/Severe teaching credentials. She has taught both ESN-AUT and LCM. Currently, she serves as a Teacher on Special Assignment in the Special Education Department supporting Mild/Moderate separate... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Special Education (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

Guidelines for Modifying Curriculum for Students with IEPs

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 828 9893 5830 Password: iF8c1g

This training session provides Education Specialists with clear IUSD modifications guidelines for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Participants will learn how to differentiate between accommodations and modifications, recognize when modifications are appropriate, and ensure alignment with IEP goals and standards.

Speakers

Janelle Bryant

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Janelle Bryant is a passionate and experienced special education teacher with a comprehensive background in supporting students with diverse learning needs, ranging from mild/moderate disabilities to extensive support needs. With expertise developed over 19 years in the education... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Special Education (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

Who's Who in IUSD: Special Education Edition

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 823 0809 5787 Passcode: 65Jb98

Did your school TOSA suggest looping your SLP and PS in on an email? Maybe your class BI needs the BIS to come out and observe a student? Wait, I thought you were a BI not an IA?

The world of Special Education has so many abbreviations it extended to our job titles. Come to this session to review who's who in the special education department and how they are here to support!

Speakers

Megan Bergman

Education Specialist, Irvine Unified School District

Megan Bergman is an experienced Education Specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience in supporting Autistic students. With a background in both school and home-based ABA, Megan has developed a deep understanding of how to create inclusive and effective learning environments... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Special Education (PK-12)

4:15pm PST

How to Create a Self-Paced Classroom

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 886 9954 8915 Passcode: MCP2025

In this session, we will dive into an Instructional Model created by the Modern Classrooms Project. This model is a blended, self-paced, and mastery-based approach that fits perfectly with our districts standards based grading initiative and can be used in a variety of different content areas including math, science, reading, writing, history, and more.

Speakers

Cassie Imgram(Steuart)

6th Grade Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Hello everyone! My name is Cassie Ingram and I teach 6th grade at Oak Creek Elementary. I was born and raised in Topeka, Kansas where I began my teaching career. I graduated from Washburn University with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education in 2017 and then again from Baker... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Upper elementary (4-6) & Secondary (7-12)

4:15pm PST

PBL: Where Literacy and Technology Spark Innovation

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST

Virtual

Name

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 865 3351 5589 Password: PBL1/29

Looking for more engaging ways to teach social studies and science? Project-Based Learning promotes collaboration, sparks creativity, and increases engagement. Join me as we dive into manageable ways to incorporate projects into your units and learn how to plan a PBL Showcase both parents and students will love!

Session Resources

Speakers

Melody Rodriguez

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Melody has held a variety of roles within IUSD, including classroom teacher, Induction Mentor, Intervention TOSA, Literacy Mentor, and Math Mentor. She is currently a fourth-grade teacher, Math Lead Lead, and Ed Tech Mentor at Brywood Elementary. In addition, she also coaches both... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:15pm - 4:50pm PST
Virtual

Upper elementary (4-6) & Secondary (7-12)

4:55pm PST

Actions Speak Louder Than Words: Aligning your classroom policies with your values

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Kristie Donavan

Math Teacher + TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

AI in Your Classroom

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Name

Speakers

Erica Dietz

EdTech TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

Building Classroom Communities

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Kim Anthony

TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

Check-in/Check-out (CICO)

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Name

Speakers

Taylor McGowan

TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

Classroom Visuals to Support All Learners

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Lucia Pimentel

Education Specialist, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

I have to do What... Gen Ed Teacher Responsibilities in Supporting Students with IEPs

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Evan Crayton

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Elise Green

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

Itinerant Teachers: Opportunities for Communities

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Name

Speakers

Miguel Chicas

4-8 Vocal Specialist, Irvine Unified School District

Katherine Findlay

Music Educator, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

Sensation Station: Exploring the Power of the Sensory Play!

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Marla Weingart

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Early Elementary (PK-3)

4:55pm PST

Small Groups, Big Wins: K-2 Success

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Nikkita Fox

Literacy TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Early Elementary (PK-3)

4:55pm PST

Engage & Manage: Classroom Strategies for Math Games with Cards and Dice!

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 824 4507 2108
Passcode: Dx4Nxf

Math games in the classroom bring FUN to learning, whether it's for skill development, strategy, or review—students truly enjoy playing! Learn how to efficiently manage materials, create a structured environment for gameplay, and enhance student engagement—all while keeping the experience enjoyable. We’ll discuss practical classroom management techniques to ensure smooth gameplay, minimize disruptions, and maximize learning outcomes.

Speakers

Kathy Kuno

Elementary Math TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Kathy is a mom of two amazing boys ages 24 and 20, and is an Elementary Math TOSA for the district. Prior to joining the IUSD family in 1998, she began her teaching career in another district for three years. Kathy has taught first grade and fourth grade between three IUSD schools... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Elementary & Middle School (PK-8)

4:55pm PST

Spark Learning with Smart Seating: Optimizing Classroom Configurations

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Name

Ready-to-use templates for seating charts and floor plans.
Customizable layouts to fit your teaching style and classroom needs.
Expert tips to balance collaboration, focus, and movement.

Session Resource

Speakers

Kim Farag

Literacy TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Elementary (K-6)

4:55pm PST

Unlocking the Potential of English Learners: Tips and Tools for Success

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Brooke Waldrup

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Elementary (K-6)

4:55pm PST

What's In and Out for Effective Tier 1 Math Instruction

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Name

Speakers

Michele Ogden

Teacher, Math Mentor, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Elementary (K-6)

4:55pm PST

AVID Strategies for Secondary

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 392 897 9424

This session will focus on AVID's WICOR strategies with a focus on Reading and Organization to support all learners. AVID strategies are research based strategies that can help all students, including English Language Learners and Students with Special needs.

Session Resources

Speakers

Otto Lopez

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Middle School & Secondary (6-12)

4:55pm PST

Navigating Space and Time: Supporting Students Through Transitions in the Instructional Setting

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Name

Meeting Zoom Link
Meeting ID: 450 279 0811 Passcode: Linzmeier2

This session offers practical strategies for designing classroom environments, managing time, and fostering student autonomy. Educators will explore how setting expectations, creating routines, and structuring transitions can enhance engagement and growth, leaving with actionable tools to create supportive, student-centered classrooms.

Session Resources

Speakers

Lauren Linzmeier

Literacy TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Lauren Linzmeier is IUSD's Literacy TOSA, bringing 16 years of experience in secondary English education, the last nine years within IUSD. Passionate about equity and empowerment through literacy, she is dedicated to fostering a love of reading in every student, focusing on essential... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Middle School & Secondary (6-12)

4:55pm PST

Coaching Questions

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 322 306 8678 no password

This session introduces a partnered task designed to promote problem-solving, critical thinking, and student accountability—regardless of a student’s current level of understanding. In pairs, students alternate between the roles of “teacher” and “student,” with the “teacher” guiding the process using pre-set coaching questions and provided answers. This structure ensures that both partners can engage meaningfully, even if they don’t know the answer upfront. You'll walk away with a ready-to-use strategy that builds collaboration, encourages independent thinking, and supports deeper learning in any classroom.

Speakers

Kathryn Rush

Math Teacher/Mentor, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12)

4:55pm PST

Inside Our Cotaught Classroom: Ready to Implement Strategies for your Collab and Cotaught Classes

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Liz Dhiman

Education Specialist, Irvine Unified

Ally Hatter

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12), Special Education (7-12)

4:55pm PST

Making Learning Extension Manageable

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 678 141 5990

In this session you will develop a dynamic shorthand with your students to extend their learning without additional lesson planning or assessments. The goal is to level up without bottoming out!

Speakers

Natalie Hanks

ELA TOSA, IUSD

Natalie is a Literacy TOSA and a former English teacher at IHS. She's an avid K-pop fan, dog mom, and loves infusing fun into ELA instruction.

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12)

4:55pm PST

Station Rotation Nation!

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 897 2515 1446 Password: wmk0sW

Stations around the classroom can be an effective way to engage students, provide targeted instruction, and elevate student choice. While our elementary counterparts are well-versed in the use of stations, secondary teachers may be a little less familiar with station models. Come and consider how you might incorporate this into your classroom!

Speakers

Georgia Brittain

TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12)

4:55pm PST

Case-Management & Service Provider Manual

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 817 8090 7625 Passcode: 2zsumx

In this session, attendees will gain tips and strategies for effective case management, an understanding and navigating the network of service providers within IUSD. Learn how to coordinate resources to support your teaching year! We will explore little tricks to help manage your caseload, explore key service providers - detailing who they are and what services they offer.

Speakers

Lisa Doan

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

I am a dedicated educator with a passion in supporting diverse learners. I hold a Multiple Subject teaching credential, ESN credential and a masters in Special Education. I began as a Behavior Interventionist in LA County and IUSD before my 10 year career as the ESN Education Specialist... Read More →

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Special Education (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

Go on a Safari: Hunting Down the Most Commonly Requested SpEd Documents

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Joyce Lam

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Special Education (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

Guidelines for Modifying Curriculum for Students with IEPs

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Janelle Bryant

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Special Education (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

SPED Q&A or "Help! I Am a New Teacher & Now What!?"

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 823 0809 5787 Passcode: 65Jb98

Time to work through specific questions in the ESN and ESN Autism world for our newer teachers! A great space to ask questions about behavior strategies, classroom set-up, IEP facilitation, who-do-I-go-to-when-I-need-something, etc.

Speakers

Megan Bergman

Education Specialist, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Special Education (PK-12)

4:55pm PST

How to Create a Self-Paced Classroom

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Cassie Imgram(Steuart)

6th Grade Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Upper elementary (4-6) & Secondary (7-12)

4:55pm PST

PBL: Where Literacy and Technology Spark Innovation

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST

Virtual

Name

Speakers

Melody Rodriguez

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 4:55pm - 5:30pm PST
Virtual

Upper elementary (4-6) & Secondary (7-12)

5:35pm PST

Actions Speak Louder Than Words: Aligning your classroom policies with your values

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Kristie Donavan

Math Teacher + TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

5:35pm PST

AI in Your Classroom

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Name

Speakers

Erica Dietz

EdTech TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

5:35pm PST

Building Classroom Communities

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Kim Anthony

TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

5:35pm PST

Check-in/Check-out (CICO)

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Name

Speakers

Taylor McGowan

TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

5:35pm PST

IEP Writing Lab

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 738 701 3958
Bring an IEP you're currently working on, along with any questions or support needs you have. Our SPED TOSA Team will be on hand to provide real-time guidance, answer your questions, and offer practical tips. This is a great opportunity to refine your IEP writing skills, gain insights on best practices, and build confidence in creating effective, individualized plans for your students.

Speakers

Evan Crayton

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Elise Green

Special Education TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

5:35pm PST

Itinerant Teachers: Opportunities for Communities

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Name

Speakers

Katherine Findlay

Music Educator, Irvine Unified School District

Miguel Chicas

4-8 Vocal Specialist, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

All are Welcome (PK-12)

5:35pm PST

Sensation Station: Exploring the Power of the Sensory Play!

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Marla Weingart

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

Early Elementary (PK-3)

5:35pm PST

Preparing Students for the ELPAC

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 346 835 0759; No password

This presentation is designed to support you in preparing your students for the English Language Proficiency Assessments for California (ELPAC). You will gain a clear understanding of the assessment’s structure and purpose, including how to interpret ELPAC scores and use them to set meaningful, achievable goals with your students. The session will also provide practical strategies for integrating ELPAC-aligned activities into daily instruction and explore options for creating a focused ELPAC preparation "bootcamp" at your site. With actionable tips and tools, this presentation will empower you to confidently support your English Learners in achieving success.

Speakers

Brooke Waldrup

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

Elementary (K-6)

5:35pm PST

Ready-Made Fun: Engaging Low Floor, High Ceiling Tasks!

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 824 4507 2108
Passcode: Dx4Nxf

Let’s explore some of the low floor, high ceiling activities available on our Canvas page. Discover how to engage your students with these versatile tasks that you can easily implement in your classroom the very next day. We’ll also discuss strategies for managing student behavior during these activities and fostering meaningful mathematical discourse. Together, we’ll create a dynamic learning environment that supports all students. Enhance your teaching approach and make math engaging for everyone!

Speakers

Kathy Kuno

Elementary Math TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

Elementary (PK-6)

5:35pm PST

Taking Note: Cross Content Annotations

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Name

Meeting Zoom Link
Meeting ID: 450 279 0811 Passcode: Linzmeier2

Discover how to transform student engagement and comprehension through effective annotation strategies. In this session, educators will explore practical examples, discuss cross-content applications, and have dedicated time to plan how to implement these strategies effectively. Gain tools to make student thinking visible, support accountability, and deepen connections with texts across various disciplines.

Session Resources

Speakers

Lauren Linzmeier

Literacy TOSA, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

Middle School & Secondary (6-12)

5:35pm PST

Building Thinking Classrooms

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 322 306 8678 no password

Transform your classroom into a space that fosters critical thinking, curiosity, and collaboration by applying key practices from Peter Liljedahl’s "Building Thinking Classrooms" framework. This session will highlight simple strategies such as random groupings and vertical whiteboards to enhance student engagement and problem-solving. You’ll leave with actionable ideas to create a dynamic learning environment that encourages deeper thinking and active participation.

Speakers

Kathryn Rush

Math Teacher/Mentor, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12)

5:35pm PST

Inside Our Cotaught Classroom: Ready to Implement Strategies for your Collab and Cotaught Classes

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Liz Dhiman

Education Specialist, Irvine Unified

Ally Hatter

Teacher, Irvine Unified School District

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12), Special Education (7-12)

5:35pm PST

Making Learning Extension Manageable

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Speakers

Natalie Hanks

ELA TOSA, IUSD

Natalie is a Literacy TOSA and a former English teacher at IHS. She's an avid K-pop fan, dog mom, and loves infusing fun into ELA instruction.

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST
Virtual

Secondary (7-12)

5:35pm PST

Translanguaging: Theory and Practice

Wednesday January 29, 2025 5:35pm - 6:10pm PST

Virtual

Zoom Meeting Link
Meeting ID: 897 2515 1446 Password: wmk0sW

As teachers, we want our English learner students to use all of the resources at their disposal to access content, while also developing their English language skills. Translanguaging offers an alternative to both student disengagement and over-reliance on translation. Come and hear what all the buzz is about!

Speakers