We all want to create a classroom that is engaging while also maintaining behaviors that allow for learning. Love and Logic is the perfect method to get this done. In this session, participants will be introduced to tried-and-true methods that can be implemented in the classroom tomorrow. They will have an opportunity to practice these methods as well as work to update/change their classroom rules and procedures to better align with this methodology.
Erin is currently in her 19th year of teaching English Language Arts. This is her 16th year in middle school, and she has taught every grade level from 7th to 12th grade. She also serves as a Lead Teacher in her school and district. She is a current participant in the Rural Teacher... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 9:00am - 10:00am EDT Elm Room 134 B
As educators, we talk A LOT about data-informed practice and we use tools like test scores, grades, attendance statistics, graduation rates etc. to tell the story of our success, of what works, and what doesn't. But, when is the last time that you meaningfully asked an actual student what's working for them, what they like or don't like, or what motivates them? Often absent in our storytelling are our students' actual stories and apathy is rooted in exclusion! In this session a group of 8 high school students will tackle big questions like these, giving you candid insight into how they're experiencing education: what strategies work, what strategies don't, what matters to them, what do they wish educators knew?
This interactive panel will share firsthand perspectives and resources for how schools can meaningfully engage and support Indigenous students. Through guided discussion, panelists will explore how educators can build trust with Native students and families, create culturally safe classrooms, and integrate Indigenous perspectives into daily lessons year-round. Conversations will center around thoughtful approaches to incorporating Indigenous lessons and knowledge to our westernized education system. Attendees will gain practical tools, educational resources, and a deeper cultural understanding to foster a more inclusive, engaging, and respectful learning environment for Indigenous students and their peers. First-voice accounts of her K-12 years will be shared by Nola Pina (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) and resources provided by the Museum of Cherokee People for educators will be shared by Chapman Herlihy. Attendees will be able to ask questions throughout the session and may also be invited to break out into small conversational groups.
Lead Atsila Anotasgi Cultural Specialist, Museum of the Cherokee People
Nola Pina (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians) grew up in the Big Cove community on the Qualla Boundary. Her passion for cultural preservation is what drives her to continue to take in as much knowledge as she can every day. As the Lead Atsila Anotasgi Cultural Specialist at the Museum, Nola enjoys demonstrating and teaching finger-weaving (she is a first-generation finger weaver herself), as well as storytelling and leading tours. Nola can often be found reading and adding to her personal library about Cherokee history, life, culture, and other Indigenous... Read More →
Curriculum Coordinator, Museum of the Cherokee People
Chapman Herlihy is the Curriculum Coordinator at the Museum of the Cherokee People. Her role includes working on educational projects and resources that impact both the museum and Great Smokey Mountains National Park. These K-12 resources support Cherokee-centric curriculum and educator development. Prior to this, Chapman worked as a Partner of the National Park Service... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am EDT Elm Room 202 B
As educators, we talk A LOT about data-informed practice and we use tools like test scores, grades, attendance statistics, graduation rates etc. to tell the story of our success, of what works, and what doesn't. But, when is the last time that you meaningfully asked an actual student what's working for them, what they like or don't like, or what motivates them? Often, absent in our storytelling are our students' stories! In this session a group of 6 middle school students will tackle big questions like these, giving you candid insight into how they're experiencing education: what strategies work, what strategies don't, what matters to them, what do they wish educators knew?
TRiO programs rode a federal roller coaster throughout 2025 and it may not be over yet. At times, our communities and representatives have come dangerously close to losing sight of what these programs are, what they do, and the life-changing impact they can have. In this auto-biographical session, the speaker will guide you through her own life's journey as a first-generation, low-income student from rural Madison County, vulnerably sharing the obstacles she faced and the ways that TRiO programs helped her build a better future, both for herself and for the future students she would eventually be called to serve as a college access advisor. Along the way, she'll support her personal narrative with data and statistics about TRiO programs (GEAR UP, Upward Bound, McNair Scholars, Talent Search, Student Support Services, etc.), painting a full picture of TRiO's value and openly discussing what the future might hold.
