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 is a personal story about the challanges of a teenager faced with having a physical disability, struggling of finding her place and purpose, struggling with anxiety and wanting to quit school.
This is a personal story of determination and resillance with having a special high school teacher and a single parent, mother, believing in her so much that they taught her how to advocate for herself and overcome the struggles she faced. This is my story! My high school journey may have been a difficult one and I value all I learned including the awesome mentorship that was created from that time. The experiences and challanges, good or bad, shaped me into the person I am today and without them I may not hold the same values I do today. As a person working with the GEAR UP Grants, I believe in the value of this program. At the time I was in high school, the program, GEAR UP was not a part of the school. I see how it would have been a great benefit for me to have that guidance during my high school journey.
You are invited to attend this session and listen to a story of a shy high school student without any confidence blossom into a self-determined creative individual that guides, teaches and advocates for others' needs for success for high school and beyond.
College and Career Access Coodinator, Student Services: GEAR UP/On Ramp Program
As the College & Career Access Coordinator for Southwestern Community College, I work very closely with the GEAR UP and On Ramp Grants within three school districts. For over 15 years, I’ve taught independent living skills and pre-transitional employment strategies to students... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am EDT Elm Room 134 A
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.
