Under SB 681, the Reading Success Plan (RSP) has evolved from a technical requirement into a vital roadmap for achievement. Literacy coordinators and regional experts will provide a "view from the district" on building robust, evidence-based systems that support both teachers and families.
Panelists will share how their district transitioned into the Science of Reading along with some best practices for creating and monitoring plans using DESE-approved assessments. Whether you are fine-tuning your current process or seeking new intervention strategies, this session offers practical solutions for Missouri’s literacy landscape.
What happens when we shift the focus from getting answers to developing thinkers? K–5 educators dive into the pedagogy of Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC) and what it really looks like in elementary settings.
These passionate practitioners will unpack what BTC is, what drew them to this approach, and how it has transformed the way their students engage with learning. Through honest conversation, panelists will share both the bright spots and the bumps along the way… from fostering deeper student thinking and collaboration to navigating the real challenges of implementation.
Expect practical insights, classroom-ready ideas and authentic stories that highlight the power of putting thinking at the center of instruction. Whether you’re BTC-curious or already experimenting in your own classroom, this session offers inspiration, reassurance and a few “me too!” moments.
Come explore how even our youngest learners can do big thinking and how you can help make it happen.
In this high-energy "un-panel," the real experts aren’t on a stage—they are sitting in the seats. This session flips the traditional conference format on its head to harness the collective wisdom of the room. Instead of a one-way lecture, we’re creating a collaborative space where every educator has a seat at the table to trade "what works" in a relaxed, conversational setting. Explore and exchange ideas across four critical pillars of the classroom: Collaboration, Experiential Learning, Evidence of Learning, and Community Building. Whether you have a favorite teaching strategy to share or simply want to listen in, come gather new ideas and gain a curated, actionable toolkit to transform your learning community.
What shifts when we move from delivering content to cultivating thinkers? Grades 6–12 educators explore the pedagogy of Building Thinking Classrooms (BTC) and what it looks like in middle and high school environments.
Learn from educators who have taken the leap as they break down what BTC is, what sparked their interest, and how it has reshaped student engagement, problem-solving and discourse in their classrooms. Panelists will share real experiences (both successes and struggles) as they’ve worked to balance curriculum demands with creating spaces where students think deeply, collaborate meaningfully and take ownership of their learning.
Expect candid reflections, practical strategies and ideas you can adapt right away, whether you're teaching math, science, humanities or beyond. If you're curious about shifting classroom culture, increasing student agency and making thinking visible, this session will meet you where you are.
Come ready to rethink what student engagement can look like and gain new ways to put thinking at the center of your secondary classroom.
