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Meet the Game Changers Leading the Discussion

We're thrilled to kick off the 2025 APSRC Fall Conference with an exciting lineup!

Our keynote speaker, Dr. Catlin Tucker, will energize the room with her powerful insights on blended learning and student engagement. Her work is transforming classrooms across the country—don’t miss this chance to learn from one of education’s boldest voices!

At lunch, we’re honored to welcome Jacob Oliva, Arkansas Secretary of Education from the Arkansas Department of Education, for special remarks. His leadership and vision for the future of education in our state will spark meaningful conversations and fresh ideas.

And guiding us through the day with his signature charm and energy is our emcee, Craig O’Neill! A beloved Arkansas broadcaster and community icon, Craig brings heart, humor, and a deep passion for education to the stage.

Dr. Catlin Tucker

Dr. Catlin Tucker is an education expert, bestselling author, and international speaker with 24 years of experience in education. Named Sonoma County Teacher of the Year in 2010, she earned a Master’s in Education from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a doctorate in learning technologies from Pepperdine University. Dr. Tucker partners with schools and districts worldwide to reimagine instruction, shifting from traditional teacher-led models to Universal Design for Learning (UDL), blended learning, and student-led strategies.

Dr.Tucker’s Keynote, “Redesign Learning, Reignite Engagement & Reimagine Classrooms,” will follow the Welcome Remarks in the morning. Her session will explore how schools can redesign learning environments to boost motivation, engagement, and connection.

Keynote Description: Schools today are embracing exciting opportunities for growth—rethinking how to support teachers, meet diverse student needs, and build vibrant communities that attract and retain both staff and students. The key to thriving is designing classrooms and campuses that meet the fundamental psychological needs that drive motivation: competence, autonomy, and relatedness. In this keynote, Dr. Catlin Tucker shares stories, research, and actionable strategies to help educators and leaders redesign learning to remove barriers and create flexible pathways, reignite engagement by empowering teachers and students with agency and meaningful choice, and reimagine classrooms and schools to foster connection and belonging. Attendees will leave with a renewed sense of what’s possible and practical ideas to create schools where both teachers and students feel energized, capable, and connected.”

Dr. Tucker will also be leading a breakout session, “MTSS in Action: Strategies to Strengthen Tier 1 Instruction,” during Timeslot A, from 9:50 A.M. – 10:45 A.M.

Session Tracks

Game Changers features a variety of breakout sessions for all roles and levels in K-12 education, including superintendents, building administrators, teachers, school finance staff, technology coordinators, and more.

This year’s conference includes 30 breakout sessions spread across three time slots. During each time slot, attendees can choose from 10 different sessions tailored to meet a wide range of professional interests and needs.

Sessions are organized into program tracks that help guide your experience, including Charter Services, Teaching and Learning, Legal and Policy, Finance, Technology, Communications, Leadership, and more.

  • Presenters: APSRC Finance Specialists Denise Palmer, Robyn Keene, Missy Smead, Rebecca Cooper, and Malissa Crawford

    Room: 102

    Description: This roundtable discussion, led by APSRC Finance Specialists Denise Palmer, Robyn Keene, Missy Smead, Rebecca Cooper, and Malissa Crawford, is the live version of the APSRC Financial Management System (FMS) Google Group. Designed to support knowledge-sharing and professional growth, this session offers a space for individuals in finance-related roles to connect, share insights, ask questions, and engage in constructive discussions on financial topics.

  • Presenter: APSRC Director of Technology Ben Janelle

    Description: Interested in learning more about the many data projects APSRC offers and how you can best utilize them? Join APSRC Director of Technology Ben Janelle for a session on the various data tools available, from streamlining financial insights with CFAM to an overview of DOTs, which brings student data together in one place. You will also explore MYEDgislation, a dashboard that helps you stay informed on the Arkansas Legislative Session, and synK12, which collects Arkansas K12 education events in one place. This session provides a comprehensive look at the data resources APSRC can offer your school.

  • Presenters: Tina Long, Superintendent and Chief Academic Officer, Allison Montiel, Director of Experiential Learning, Future School of Fort Smith

    Description: This session will explore innovative ideas and practices that help schools make a difference and stay competitive. Come learn what it means to be a game changer in today’s education landscape.

  • Presenters: Dr. Josh McGee, Associate Professor at University of Arkansas, Endowed Chair in Education Accountability and Transparency, and Chair of Education Funding Task Force

    Description: Arkansas’s education funding formula is complex, with multiple funding streams that are not student-centered. Over the past several months, the Arkansas Education Funding Task Force has been examining the state’s current formula, exploring best practices from across the country, and identifying potential avenues for improvement. In this session, Dr. Josh B. McGee, Chair of the Task Force, will provide an overview of the group’s work and share insights into possible reforms to enhance equity, adequacy, transparency, and efficiency in Arkansas’s education funding system.

  • Presenters: Suzanne M. Rogers, M.Ed. Assistant Director of Public Relations Maggie McConnell Communications Specialst

    Description: Your school’s success is more than academics—it’s built on perception, connection, and outcomes. In this session, discover how to strengthen reputation, relationships, and results to build trust, attract families, and share your impact. Walk away with practical PR strategies to navigate challenges, amplify successes, and position your school as a true game changer.

  • Presenters: APSRC Director of Charter Services Luanne Baroni and Jim Fowler, APSRC Grant Specialist

    Description: Join APSRC for an essential breakout session spotlighting the transformative $61+ million grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Education through the FY 2025 Expanding Opportunity Through Quality Charter Schools Program. This session will provide a comprehensive overview of key timelines and milestones for subgrant applications, guidance on eligibility, planning, and implementation strategies, insights into how $55 million in subgrants will support the launch, expansion, and replication of high-quality charter schools across Arkansas, and the resources and technical assistance available to applicants.

  • Presenter: Dr. Catlin Tucker, Game Changers Keynote

    Description: MTSS in Action: Strategies to Strengthen Tier 1 Instruction

    Tier 1 instruction is the core of MTSS, yet whole-group, teacher-led lessons often fail to meet the needs of all learners. This session introduces three practical pathways for making Tier 1 more effective: flipping direct instruction into video paired with engagement strategies, chunking whole-group lessons with cooperative learning protocols, and using small-group differentiated instruction with the Station Rotation Model. Participants will explore how to use data to design flexible entry points, increase student interaction with content and peers, and create more equitable and engaging learning experiences.

  • Presenters: APSRC Staff Attorney Tripp Walter and APSRC Director of Special Education Sandra Doggett

    Description: Get ready for a discussion group focused on Special Education law as it is applied and practiced in Arkansas. The session will be led by APSRC Staff Attorney Tripp Walter and APSRC Director of Special Education Sandra Doggett, with additional panel members joining the conversation.

  • Presenter: APSRC Director of Teaching and Learning Jeana Williams

    Description: Presented by APSRC Director of Teaching and Learning Jeana Williams, who also leads the Arkansas Leadership Academy Instructional Leader Empowerment program, this session will share updates on the ILE program, giving a preview of what’s ahead, and creating space to reconnect and learn from each other. Whether you are currently in the cohort or a past participant, this is a valuable opportunity to continue growing in your leadership journey.

  • Presenters: Sarah Snider and Kathy Hanlon, APSRC Finance Specialists

    Description: Join Sarah Snider and Kathy Hanlon from the APSRC Finance Department, as they cover the 'Hot Topics' in School finance. From finance rules and regulations to best practices and compliance, this session will help you enhance your financial knowledge and skills while also being fun and engaging.

  • Presenters: Tally Harp, Stefanie Smithey, Annette Neely, Kim Bowerman, Sherry Washington, and Justin Warner, APSRC

    Description: APSRC Specialists from the Teaching and Learning Department invite you to join them for a session focused on high-quality instructional materials. Learn what makes a curriculum HQIM, why it matters, and how to implement it effectively. The session will also address common challenges schools face after purchasing HQIM and offer practical strategies to support successful use.

  • Presenters: Cindy Bever, Camden Fairview School District Principal, Erika Hubbard, School Director at KIPP Delta Public Schools, Karmen McNutt, PreK-6 Principal at Marvell Elaine Elementary School, and Tally Harp & Stefanie Smithey from APSRC

    Description: This collaborative session will focus on best practices for strengthening Tier 1 instruction. Whether through shared experiences, practical strategies, or real examples, the goal is to explore what works in classrooms and how schools can build strong, effective core instruction for all students.

  • Presenter: Leon Brown, Technology Coordinator at Crowley's Ridge Education Service Cooperative

    Description: Join us for an engaging learning session designed to empower educators with cutting-edge AI tools that redefine teaching and learning. Explore innovative applications that streamline lesson planning, spark creative expression, and personalize student experiences.

  • Presenters: Lisa Huffmaster and Brooke Crosby Lake Hamilton

    Description: General education teachers play a vital role in IEP development, but too often their voices are not heard. This session equips educators with practical tools and strategies to contribute meaningful input, strengthen collaboration, and ensure students with disabilities have real access to the general education curriculum.

    By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

    Describe the critical contributions general educators bring to IEP meetings.

    Identify key data and classroom evidence that shoul inform the PLAAFP and IEP goals.

    Differentiate between accommodations, modifications, and specially designed instruction that promote access to grade-level content.

    Apply strategies that foster meaningful, rather than symbolic, participation in IEP development.

  • Presenter: Kristin LaMotte, Renaissance

    Description: Join us for an engaging, interactive session, modeling strategies and resources to differentiate instruction within Tier 1 by using data and AI-enhancements.  Gain tips to support your Math and Reading Plans, to prevent 3rd Grade Retention, and to reduce the widening gap as students progress through the grades.  Bring your phone or iPad to join in.  Let the games begin! (Door Prizes involved).

  • Presenters: Ben Janelle, APSRC Director of Technology, and Craig Millsap, Technology Developer, and Monica Tucker

    Description: Enroll Arkansas uses OneApp to streamline application processes for open-enrollment charter schools. Learn more about Enroll Arkansas, how it empowers families to apply to charter schools, and how OneApp's integration with eSchool reduces administrative load on registrars.

  • Presenters: APSRC Finance Specialists Denise Palmer, Robyn Keene, Missy Smead, Rebecca Cooper, and Malissa Crawford

    Description: Led by APSRC Finance Specialists Denise Palmer, Robyn Keene, Missy Smead, Rebecca Cooper, and Malissa Crawford, this special breakout session is a collaborative discussion on best practices for school finance departments. Whether you are a bookkeeper, business manager, or simply interested in learning and listening, this is a session you will not want to miss.

  • Presenters: APSRC Director of Finance Nick Hill

    Description: Join the APSRC Director of Finance, Nick Hill, for a practical session on running effective and compliant board meetings. Learn how to build strong relationships with board members, communicate key financial information clearly, and keep meetings focused and productive. Whether you're new to the role or looking to sharpen your leadership toolkit, this session will provide valuable strategies for confident and successful leadership.

  • Presenters: APSRC Director of Legal Services Michael Helms and Staff Attorney Tripp Walter

    Description: This panel discussion, led by APSRC Director of Legal Services Michael Helms and Staff Attorney Tripp Walter, will explore current legal issues in education. Legal experts will join the panel to provide valuable insights and perspectives on the legal aspects affecting schools today.

  • Presenters: Sarah Snider and Kathy Hanlon, APSRC Finance Specialists

    Description: Join Sarah Snider and Kathy Hanlon, APSRC finance specialists, for a session focused on effective ways to communicate financial information with your school board. Learn strategies to share key financial details clearly and confidently.

  • Presenters: APSRC Specialists Sherry Washington (Science) and Justin Warner (Math)

    Description: Join APSRC Specialists Sherry Washington (Science) and Justin Warner (Math) for an insightful session focused on best practices in academic intervention. Drawing from their extensive experience in K–12 education, Sherry and Justin will share proven strategies, practical tools, and data-driven approaches to support student success in science and math.

  • Presenter: Ben Janelle, APSRC Director of Technology, and Craig Millsap, Technology Developer

    Description: Join Ben Janelle, APSRC Director of Technology, and Craig Millsap, Technology Developer, for an open conversation about game-changing technology in schools. This session is designed for collaboration, so come ready to share your ideas, ask questions, and learn from others about how technology is shaping education today.

  • Presenter: Sandra Doggett, APSRC Director of Special Education Services

    Description: Join APSRC Director of Special Education Services Sandra Doggett for a session focused on inclusive practices in education. This session will provide space for discussion, reflection, and shared ideas around supporting inclusion in schools. More details on content and presenters will be available soon.

  • Presenters: APSRC Finance Specialist Sarah Snider and Director of School Support Jim Robb

    Description: Join APSRC Finance Specialist Sarah Snider and Director of School Support Jim Robb for a session on staffing efficiency and employee leave. This session will highlight policies, practices, and tools that support clearer decision-making and more consistent leave management. Designed to help school leaders improve planning while staying responsive to staff needs.

  • Presenter: Beth Mathys, Arkansas Aware

    Description: When students have trauma, adversity, chaos, inconsistency (or any number of other things piled on top of that) it's very difficult for them to regulate their emotions. As a result, we need to be increasingly more skilled in our ability to de-escalate the moment and help our students return to a state of regulation. We're not offering quick fixes. We're offering the opportunity to learn how real change happens. In this one hour preview of our 6 hour workshop, we will focus on the process of escalation and de-escalation. What is important for us to know in the moment? Let’s clarify our goals and put a few tools in our belts.

  • Presenters: John Bacon, Robyn Keene, Jherrithan Dukes - APSRC

    Description: Great leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about inspiring others, building trust, and driving meaningful change. This breakout session is designed for education leaders at all levels who want to sharpen their leadership skills and influence. Presented by John Bacon, Robyn Keene, and Jherrithan Dukes, who bring expertise in general leadership, finance leadership, and academic leadership, this session offers a comprehensive approach to strengthening your impact as a leader.

  • Presenters: Anna Windsor, Great Minds

    Description: Are your teachers overwhelmed by the process of translating adopted HQIM into daily instruction? This session equips district and curriculum specialists with practical, replicable strategies to support teachers in unpacking units and sub-units from their HQIM. Learn how to align assessments, scaffold instruction, and design learning experiences that directly support ATLAS interventions and extensions—ensuring all learners are engaged, supported, and challenged through intentional planning and implementation.

  • Presenters: APSRC Director of Teaching & Learning Jeana Williams, Co-Director of Instructional Leadership Jessica Wright

    Description: Curious about what the Arkansas Leadership Academy offers and how it supports educational leaders across the state? Join us for an overview of the ALA experience, including its guiding principles, areas of focus, and leadership development opportunities. Whether you're new to ALA or have participated in the past, this session offers a chance to connect, reflect, and learn more about how ALA can support your leadership journey.

  • Presenters: Scott Smith, Executive Director of APSRC, and Arkansas Legislators

    Description: Join us for an engaging panel discussion with Arkansas Legislators as they share their insights and perspectives on the future of education. Don't miss this opportunity to hear directly from those shaping and supporting policy in our state.

  • Presenters: APSRC Director of Finance Nick Hill and Technology Specialist Kendal Wells

    Description: Join APSRC Director of Finance Nick Hill and Technology Specialist Kendal Wells for a session on planning for your school’s financial future. This session will explore considerations, tools, and ideas to support effective decision-making in a changing funding environment.

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Event Details

Tuesday, October 21st, 2025

Hot Springs Convention Center

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