MOmentum

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 if learning flowed seamlessly from classroom to couch, from guided instruction to independent discovery? This lively panel brings together K–12 educators who are reimagining how a Learning Management System (LMS) can do more than organize content. It can assess student learning, extend learning, spark curiosity, and strengthen the connection between school and home.


Panelists will share practical, creative strategies for designing experiences that keep students engaged beyond the school day, empower families to support learning, and build continuity between in-person and at-home environments.


Expect real stories, fresh ideas, and a few “why didn’t I think of that?” moments. Whether you're just getting started or looking to deepen your practice, gain actionable insights to help learning stick, no matter where it happens.
Come curious. Leave inspired.

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.

Success-ready learning extends beyond the four walls of the classroom to ensure students are prepared for the complexities of the workforce. District leaders will explore how they are bridging the gap between school and the workforce by co-designing real-world learning projects with industry partners to solve actual community challenges. 


Dive into strategies for embedding the "soft skill" edge—essential durability skills like communication, adaptability and collaboration—directly into the core curriculum. Panelists will discuss how they are expanding access to Market Value Assets (MVAs), such as internships and industry-recognized credentials, while navigating the logistics of flexible learning models to create space for off-campus experiences within a traditional school schedule. Gain actionable ideas for building a more connected, relevant, and future-focused learning ecosystem for your students.

What if family engagement felt less like a checklist and more like a meaningful connection? K–12 educators explore innovative approaches to building authentic partnerships between schools and families.


Our panelists will share best practices for keeping families informed, involved, and invested in student learning without overwhelming them (or themselves). From rethinking communication strategies to creating opportunities for two-way engagement, learn how schools are moving beyond newsletters and notifications to foster genuine relationships.


Expect practical ideas, honest reflections, and creative strategies that meet families where they are… whether that’s through technology, community events, or simple shifts in mindset. Panelists will discuss challenges they’ve faced and how they’ve adapted to better support diverse family needs.


Whether you’re looking to strengthen trust, increase participation, or bring more voices into the conversation, this session will offer fresh inspiration to help you turn everyday interactions into lasting connections. Because when families feel connected, students thrive. That’s innovation that matters.

With new federal rulings setting clear standards for web and mobile accessibility, school districts are at a critical turning point. This panel brings together the "three pillars" of successful implementation: local district practitioners, regional advisors and industry experts in accessibility remediation. Dive into the practicalities of the Title II ruling, focusing on the collaborative efforts needed to support classroom and school-wide compliance. From training staff to auditing digital assets, discover how your district can lead with empathy and expertise to ensure equitable access for all students, families, and staff.

As AI becomes a daily reality for students, the conversation has shifted from "if" to "how" teachers can use it responsibly. Educators and AI professionals will discuss the practical application of AI from elementary through secondary classrooms.


Panelists will explore how they are implementing essential guardrails—such as data privacy protections and academic integrity frameworks—to ensure AI remains a secure and powerful partner in the learning process. 


Explore how to foster an AI-ready culture that prioritizes safe, ethical, and human-centered instruction for all students.