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
In this session, participants will explore the research and practical insights of Zach Mercurio and his book The Power of Mattering to examine how the experience of mattering shapes individual growth and overall retention. Grounded in the core practices of noticing, affirming, and needing, we will interrogate how these skills foster meaningful connections as foundations for resilient communities.
Through guided reflection, discussion, and application, participants will identify concrete strategies to intentionally recognize others’ contributions, communicate authentic value, and create environments where individuals feel relied upon and significant.
New Teacher Support Coach, Appalachian State New Teacher Support
Katie Matthews is an Instructional Coach for the New Teacher Support Program (NC NTSP) who improves teachers’ instructional practices to enhance student learning and increase teacher efficacy. Katie believes cultivating authentic relationships focused on collaboration, unwavering... Read More →
Interim Regional Director and New Teacher Support Coach, Appalachian State University, New Teacher Support
Caroline Scott Armstrong Beam is a North Carolina New Teacher Support Coach with Appalachian State University who partners with teachers to explore their own professional goals by foregrounding assets and exploring goodness. Caroline believes that teachers who are new to this career... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am EDT Elm Room 134 B
Many principals and teacher leaders feel trapped in the day-to-day demands of schooling, leaving little time to build a clear vision for the future. This session explores how leaders at any level can move from managing challenges to creating meaningful change by translating deep listening and empathy into a shared school vision. Using real stories from the transformation of rural North Carolina school districts, participants will see how listening to students, teachers, families, and community partners helped create innovative learning opportunities in entrepreneurship, STEAM, workforce development, and global learning. More importantly, the session will focus on how school leaders can replicate this process within their own buildings. Participants will learn practical strategies for uncovering their school community’s aspirations, crafting a clear and inspiring vision, empowering early adopters, and building the conditions that allow innovation to grow. Through reflection activities and implementation tools, attendees will leave with a practical roadmap to help their own schools move from reacting to problems to intentionally creating the future their students deserve.
Dr. Kim Morrison is a Superintendent in Residence for The Innovation Project. She is the former Superintendent ofMount Airy City Schools (MACS). Dr. Morrison recently led a 21-million-dollar project in 55 schools in eight school districts. The overarching goal of this federal project... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 1:35pm - 2:35pm EDT Elm Room 134 B
