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2026 ROE8 Summer Institute
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Wednesday, June 10
 

8:00am CDT

Sign In
Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am CDT
Plan to arrive between 8:00-8:30 with enough time to grab your swag, find your seat, and digitally sign in. 
Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am CDT
201B

8:30am CDT

Welcome
Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:30am - 8:45am CDT

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:30am - 8:45am CDT
201B

8:45am CDT

Keynote - Less Tired. More Inspired: 3 Actions Towards Thriving Instead of Surviving
Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am CDT
Flourishing inside and outside our work environment is what allows us all to stay energized, passionate, and impactful.   
Be empowered by three crucial actions that allow us to double-down on our unique signature strengths and passions in order to reach higher levels of happiness, fulfillment, and giving; all while avoiding burnout and a negative mindset.
Speakers
avatar for Phil Januszewski

Phil Januszewski

Speaker●Teacher●Creator, Positive Growth Lounge LLC
Phil Januszewski is a nationally recognized keynote speaker who empowers the “givers” of the world to flourish personally so they can create greater impact professionally; all while avoiding burnout, boredom, and cynicism.A 20-year educator turned full-time motivator, Phil blends... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am CDT
201B

10:00am CDT

From “Why Try?” to “I Can”: Re-Engaging Students
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Students who shut down, avoid challenges, or rely heavily on adults are often labeled as unmotivated, but research tells a different story. This session explores learned helplessness and how it shows up in today’s classrooms. Educators will learn how character-based education can restore student agency, perseverance, and engagement without blaming students or lowering expectations. Participants will leave with practical language shifts and classroom strategies that help students move from disengagement to confidence and ownership of learning.  
Speakers
avatar for Grace Heimerdinger-Baake

Grace Heimerdinger-Baake

SEL + Family Education and Engagement Specialist, Regional Office of Education #47
Grace Heimerdinger-Baake is the SEL & Family Education and Engagement Specialist for the Regional Office of Education #47. She brings more than 13 years of experience as an educator, crisis counselor, and advocate supporting children, families, and communities. Grace specializes in... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
201A

10:00am CDT

Game On! #1 - Using Games in the Classroom
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Come to my sessions and have some laughs! These games are the PERFECT BRAIN BREAKS FOR ANY AGED LEARNER!
Each Session will be the foundation for the next session- NO GAMES REPEATED!!!!!  Free Game Give-A ways at the end of 'each session.  If you missed one, no worries, come and join the fun!!!!!!


1st Session Games- "Blink" "Spot-It" "Taco-Cat-Goat-Cheese-Pizza" "ZIPPY" & "Diced Cheese" 
Speakers
NA

Nichole Ambrosia

Instructional Coach, ROE 8
In my 15+ years of teaching experience in a variety of settings—public, private, and international schools—I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse group of amazing students and teachers. I’ve worked as an elementary teacher and am currently serving as an instructional... Read More →
avatar for Cathy Parker

Cathy Parker

Reading Specialist/8th Grade ELA/Game Club Leader, River Bend Schools CUSD #2, Fulton,IL
Literature teacher with 30 years of experience as a Reading Specialist.
I am currently an 8th ELA / History/ Game Club Leader. Seven years ago I implemented a weekly Game Club in our building every Friday to foster and develop social relationships with students.
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
210
  Engagement
  • global Y

10:00am CDT

Games that Make Number Sense "Click"
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover fact fluency games that empower students to master flexible strategies and sharpen their number sense. You’ll walk away with engaging activities that challenge kids to bridge connections, find patterns, and build academic vocabulary.
Speakers
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
201D

10:00am CDT

Using Sketchbooks as an Instructional Tool
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
We will explore ways to reinforce student learning by using a sketchbook as a tool in class. The sketchbook is used by many as a hands-on way to generate ideas, problem solve, and synthesize knowledge from a variety of content areas. In this session, we will discuss ways to implement sketchbooks as a creative, instructional tool across all age levels and content areas. We will also create our own sketchbooks out of commonly found materials at low or no cost. No artistic skill is needed!
Speakers
avatar for Dorothy Ramey

Dorothy Ramey

Art Teacher, Stockton CUSD#206
Art Teacher - Stockton CUSD #206
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
208

10:00am CDT

Happiness Hacks I Stole From Heavy Metal
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore 5 positive psychology strategies to become a flourishing and impactful rockstar. The twist? Each actionable insight is drawn from the bold lyrics of heavy metal. By combining research-driven approaches with the raw energy of metal, we can empower ourselves to take intentional steps toward greater personal happiness and well-being. Let's reclaim control of our happiness and prevent burnout!

*This same session is offered multiple times.
Speakers
avatar for Phil Januszewski

Phil Januszewski

Speaker●Teacher●Creator, Positive Growth Lounge LLC
Phil Januszewski is a nationally recognized keynote speaker who empowers the “givers” of the world to flourish personally so they can create greater impact professionally; all while avoiding burnout, boredom, and cynicism.A 20-year educator turned full-time motivator, Phil blends... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am CDT
201B

11:00am CDT

Game On! #2 - Using Games in the Classroom
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Come to my sessions and have some laughs! These games are the PERFECT BRAIN BREAKS FOR ANY AGED LEARNER!
Each Session will be the foundation for the next session- NO GAMES REPEATED!!!!!  Free Game Give-A ways at the end of 'each session.  If you missed one session - no worries, come and join the fun!!!!!!

2nd Session Games- "Spot-It Connect"   " Spot-It Giant"  "Moose-Match-Mayhem"  " Garbage Monsters" "Mishy-Match"

Speakers
NA

Nichole Ambrosia

Instructional Coach, ROE 8
In my 15+ years of teaching experience in a variety of settings—public, private, and international schools—I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse group of amazing students and teachers. I’ve worked as an elementary teacher and am currently serving as an instructional... Read More →
avatar for Cathy Parker

Cathy Parker

Reading Specialist/8th Grade ELA/Game Club Leader, River Bend Schools CUSD #2, Fulton,IL
Literature teacher with 30 years of experience as a Reading Specialist.
I am currently an 8th ELA / History/ Game Club Leader. Seven years ago I implemented a weekly Game Club in our building every Friday to foster and develop social relationships with students.
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
210

11:00am CDT

Instructional Practices to Motivate and Engage
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This professional development session focuses on practical strategies for supporting students’ regulation, behavior, and overall mental well-being in special education settings. Participants will explore how emotional regulation, sensory needs, and mental health influence student behavior and learning. Through discussion and real-world examples, educators will learn proactive approaches to create supportive environments, respond to challenging behaviors, and promote positive student outcomes. The session will also highlight strategies for fostering resilience, building strong relationships, and supporting the well-being of both students and staff.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Marcum

Kelly Marcum

Regional Specialist, Illinois Elevating Special Educators (IESE)
...
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
201D

11:00am CDT

Literacy Strategies to Meet the Needs of Diverse Learners
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Participants will engage in hands-on activities, such as orthographic mapping with manipulatives, writing ideas, and other multi-sensory activities to strengthen literacy. 
Speakers
avatar for Tracy Schoeny

Tracy Schoeny

special education teacher, Lena Winslow Elementary
I am a special education teacher and just completed my fourth year in special education.  For 21 years, I taught in the classroom as a teacher and substitute teaching in kindergarten, second, and third grades.
avatar for Lisa Schmidt

Lisa Schmidt

3rd Grade Teacher, Freeport School District
I'm a 3rd grade teacher at Empire Elementary. This is my 7th year teaching. I finally decided what to do when I got old(er). This is my second career. I was in banking for over 20 years and ended as an IT Specialist, so I'm not afraid of technology. I've taught 4th, 1st and now 3... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
201A

11:00am CDT

Practical Power: 7 Teaching Practices That Boost Learning & Retention
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover seven powerful, evidence-based strategies to help struggling students learn more effectively and retain knowledge longer. Based on the IES Practice Guide Organizing Instruction and Study to Improve Student Learning, this session offers practical methods grounded in cognitive science. Participants will explore techniques such as spacing instruction over time, using low-stakes quizzing, connecting abstract concepts to real-world examples, and promoting metacognitive skills. The presentation includes examples tailored for diverse learners, and easy-to-implement classroom ideas. Ideal for educators who want to boost student confidence, comprehension, and long-term success.
Speakers
avatar for Christie Johnson

Christie Johnson

Regional Specialist, Illinois SLD Support Project
I began my career in special education in 1996 and during my twenty-eight years in the field, I have held positions as a special education teacher, elementary school principal, an alternative education school principal and most recently, a special education administrator. During my... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
208

11:00am CDT

Happiness Hacks I Stole From Heavy Metal
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Explore 5 positive psychology strategies to become a flourishing and impactful rockstar. The twist? Each actionable insight is drawn from the bold lyrics of heavy metal. By combining research-driven approaches with the raw energy of metal, we can empower ourselves to take intentional steps toward greater personal happiness and well-being. Let's reclaim control of our happiness and prevent burnout!

*This same session is offered multiple times.
Speakers
avatar for Phil Januszewski

Phil Januszewski

Speaker●Teacher●Creator, Positive Growth Lounge LLC
Phil Januszewski is a nationally recognized keynote speaker who empowers the “givers” of the world to flourish personally so they can create greater impact professionally; all while avoiding burnout, boredom, and cynicism.A 20-year educator turned full-time motivator, Phil blends... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:00am - 11:50am CDT
201B

11:50am CDT

LUNCH
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:50am - 12:50pm CDT
Enjoy a catered boxed lunch from Hilldale featuring your choice of a Berry Nice to Meet You Salad, Turkey & Munster Cheese on cranberry wild rice bread, or Roast Beef & Cheddar on brioche. Each lunch includes chips and dessert, with assorted drink options also provided.
Wednesday June 10, 2026 11:50am - 12:50pm CDT
Open Campus (any room)

12:50pm CDT

Belonging by Design: Moving from Grade-Level Silos to a House Ecosystem.
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This presentation provides a comprehensive framework for the design and implementation of a House Program within a modern educational setting. By shifting from traditional grade-level silos to a multi-age "House" structure, we can foster a more inclusive, team-oriented culture where every student feels a deep sense of belonging and accountability.


The primary goal of the House Program is to cultivate a supportive school ecosystem that focuses on three key pillars:
  • Interpersonal Connectivity: Creating intentional opportunities for students to build meaningful relationships with peers and staff across various grade levels.
  • Civic Awareness: Increasing student understanding of their vital role within both the school community and the local community.
  • Self-Efficacy: Boosting student self-worth by ensuring every individual is a recognized, participating member of a collaborative team.
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie White

Stephanie White

Assistant Principal, Ogle County Educational Cooperative/Chana Education Center
I am the Assistant Principal at Chana Education Center in Chana, IL. I started in this role for the 2024-2025 school year. Prior to that I was a School Social Worker at Chana starting in 2013. When I'm not busy at work I enjoy spending time with my husband and two kids.
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
201B

12:50pm CDT

Beyond the Basics: Navigating Multisyllabic Words with Confidence
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Discover the potential of mastering multisyllabic words! The Institute of Educational Science encourages refining decoding skills to comprehend complex words. Delve into a wealth of practical strategies and classroom routines tailored to conquer unfamiliar multisyllabic words, promoting confident reading and accurate spelling.
Speakers
avatar for Christie Johnson

Christie Johnson

Regional Specialist, Illinois SLD Support Project
I began my career in special education in 1996 and during my twenty-eight years in the field, I have held positions as a special education teacher, elementary school principal, an alternative education school principal and most recently, a special education administrator. During my... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
208

12:50pm CDT

Co-Teaching: Two Minds, One Mission
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Co-teaching is more than just sharing a classroom—it's about blending talents, ideas, and strategies to create a powerful learning experience for all students. In this dynamic model, teaching partners collaborate on every aspect of instruction: from planning and delivering lessons to assessing progress and managing the classroom environment. When done well, co-teaching can spark deeper student engagement and boost achievement across the board. In this session, participants will explore the art and science of co-teaching—discovering a range of instructional models, strategies for seamless lesson delivery, and practical tips for building strong, successful teaching partnerships that benefit both educators and students alike.
Speakers
avatar for Kelly Marcum

Kelly Marcum

Regional Specialist, Illinois Elevating Special Educators (IESE)
...
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
201D

12:50pm CDT

Game On! #3 - Using Games in the Classroom
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
Come to my sessions and have some laughs! These games are the PERFECT BRAIN BREAKS FOR ANY AGED LEARNER!
If you missed one session, no worries, come and join the fun!!!!!!     Free Game Give-A ways at the end of each session.  

3rd Session Games- "Sriracha"  "Bing! Bang! Boom!" " Six Second Scribbles" " P is for Pizza" and more......







Speakers
NA

Nichole Ambrosia

Instructional Coach, ROE 8
In my 15+ years of teaching experience in a variety of settings—public, private, and international schools—I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse group of amazing students and teachers. I’ve worked as an elementary teacher and am currently serving as an instructional... Read More →
avatar for Cathy Parker

Cathy Parker

Reading Specialist/8th Grade ELA/Game Club Leader, River Bend Schools CUSD #2, Fulton,IL
Literature teacher with 30 years of experience as a Reading Specialist.
I am currently an 8th ELA / History/ Game Club Leader. Seven years ago I implemented a weekly Game Club in our building every Friday to foster and develop social relationships with students.
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
210

12:50pm CDT

Using School-Wide Breakout Kits to Build Positive School Culture
LIMITED
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will highlight how one school has implemented school-wide breakout kits to create engaging experiences that promote teamwork, problem solving, and positive school culture. The presenter will share real examples of breakout activities used with students and explain how these events were organized, facilitated, and connected to relationship building across the school. Participants will gain practical ideas for implementing breakout challenges in their own buildings to increase student engagement, encourage collaboration, and create memorable shared experiences that strengthen school community.
Speakers
avatar for Lynn Kalnins

Lynn Kalnins

Principal, Ogle County Educational Cooperative/Chana Education Center
Lynn Kalnins is the Principal of Chana Education Center, a therapeutic alternative school serving students with significant social-emotional and behavioral needs. She works closely with regional districts through the Ogle County Educational Cooperative to support specialized programming... Read More →
Wednesday June 10, 2026 12:50pm - 1:40pm CDT
201A
  Engagement
  • global Y

1:50pm CDT

Grade Level/ Subject Networking
Wednesday June 10, 2026 1:50pm - 2:30pm CDT
Meet with those in your subject or grade level to connect, share, and debrief the day. 
Wednesday June 10, 2026 1:50pm - 2:30pm CDT
201B

2:30pm CDT

Closing and Prizes
Wednesday June 10, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

Wednesday June 10, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
201B
 
2026 ROE8 Summer Institute
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