
Registration Opens 9:00 am (CST) Friday, March 28th
Melanie Gregg Charleston
Senior Counsel, Walsh Gallegos
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Tara Thomas
Government Affairs Manager,
AASA (The School Superintendents Association)
Thursday, April 24, 2025
Cory Green
Associate Commissioner, Department of Grants Administration
Texas Education Agency (TEA)
Friday, April 25, 2025
The Association for Compensatory Educators of Texas (ACET) is a state affiliate of the National Association of Federal Education Program Administrators (NAFEPA). NAFEPA provides leadership to educators across the nation in the areas of legislation and instruction. We host two annual conferences dedicated to meeting the needs of students in at-risk situations across the state of Texas. We are also committed to providing quality services that will empower educators to effectively meet these challenges. ACET proudly serves as a voice and strong advocate for improving the education opportunities for all students.
Our Mission:
ACET provides members with high-quality learning experiences and networking opportunities to ensure that all students achieve success.
Our Vision:
ACET proudly provides a platform to strongly advocate for improving the educational opportunities for all students and empowers educators to effectively meet students’ future needs.
04/22/2025 08:30 am
to
09:00 am
04/22/2025 09:15 am
to
12:15 pm
-Preconference
- Deep dive
Are you unsure about what information should be included in the SCE section of your campus plans? Are your district's SCE Policies and Procedures up to date?
We will review what your plans, policies, and procedures should encompass to effectively represent your SCE program.
Dahlinda Alaniz
04/22/2025 09:15 am
to
12:15 pm
Embark on a cosmic journey through the galaxy of compliance! This session will focus on the importance of adhering to both Uniform Grant Guidance (UGG) and Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR). Participants will learn stellar best practices for maintaining compliance, including documentation, record retention, and internal controls. Prepare to navigate the stars and ensure your grant management is out of this world!
-Pre conference
-Deep dive
Cal Lopez
TEA
Cory Green
Nick Davis
04/22/2025 09:15 am
to
12:15 pm
Attendees will gain a better understanding of the continuous improvement process as it relates to maximizing the use of resources to ultimately boost student achievement; the process for conducting a comprehensive needs assessment; and how to utilize the Collaborative Comprehensive Needs Assessment Toolkit to support engaging in the process. The session will be interactive with opportunities for table talk, ideas gathering, and the sharing of best practices.
-Preconference
- Deep dive
Jaime Huerta
Jamie Goodwin
Statewide ESSA Title I, Part A Capacity Building Initiative
04/22/2025 01:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Embark on a cosmic journey through the galaxy of compliance! This session will focus on the importance of adhering to both Uniform Grant Guidance (UGG) and Education Department General Administrative Regulations (EDGAR). Participants will learn stellar best practices for maintaining compliance, including documentation, record retention, and internal controls. Prepare to navigate the stars and ensure your grant management is out of this world!
-Pre conference
-Deep dive
Cory Green
Nick Davis
Cal Lopez
TEA
04/22/2025 01:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Parent, family, and community engagement has long been recognized as a key driver of student academic achievement. In this session, we will dive deeper into how cultivating a school culture that truly embraces family-school partnerships creates lasting benefits—not just for students, but for families, educators, and the broader community. Participants will explore research-based strategies for embedding engagement practices into the daily fabric of school life. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, attendees will learn how intentional partnerships can foster stronger relationships, improve teacher satisfaction, and strengthen the overall community. Join us to discover how building a culture of connection transforms outcomes far beyond the classroom.
Shannon Lang
Title I, Part A Parent and Family Engagement Statewide Initiative
04/22/2025 01:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Mission Critical Briefing: Galactic Subrecipient Monitoring Operations
Objective: This mission is of utmost importance. You are tasked with conducting subrecipient monitoring reviews across various planetary systems to ensure the integrity of interstellar operations.
Critical Tasks:
Scrutinize interstellar payroll logs and time and effort documentation for space crew members. Conduct thorough assessments of nonpayroll expenditures and supporting documentation to ensure procurement processes meet stringent universal standards.
Mission Parameters:
Maintain heightened vigilance for anomalies in transaction records.
Ensure all findings are meticulously documented in the Galactic Audit Report.
Collaborate with planetary representatives to swiftly address any discrepancies and prevent mission failure.
Your precision and integrity are crucial to the success of this mission. Prepare for launch and execute your duties with unwavering commitment.
Matt Lashlee
Lisa Thompson
Liza Lorenzi
Micheal Loya
04/22/2025 05:00 pm
to
06:30 pm
04/23/2025 08:00 am
to
08:30 am
You only need to join one facilitator meeting for the duration of the conference.
04/23/2025 08:30 am
to
09:00 am
Taylor HS ROTC
Samira Reza Taylor HS Soloist
Taylor HS
ROTC
Samira Reza
Taylor HS Soloist
04/23/2025 08:30 am
to
10:00 am
Introduction by Jeff Boleware
Melanie Charleston
Walsh Gallegos
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
12:00 pm
This session will provide a thorough overview of the State Compensatory Education (SCE) program, including in-depth information on programmatic and financial compliance requirements.
Dahlinda Alaniz
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
12:00 pm
Participants will learn about the Title III, Part A process from the beginning to the end. We will identify how the funding is determined, how to apply for the funding, and how to expend the funds appropriately. Participants will explore supplemental activities to help meet Title III requirements and how to report these expenditures in the ESSA Compliance Report. Participants will walk away with impactful information and supportive resources.
Rickey Santellana
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
03:00 pm
Jamie Goodwin
Statewide ESSA Title I, Part A Capacity Building Initiative
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
03:00 pm
Fiscal/Finance
Dr. Desiree Viramontes
04/23/2025 03:15 pm
to
04:30 pm
Embark on a journey through the Title IV, Part A, galaxy as we explore strategies for excellence in federal program implementation. Learn how to navigate through requirements, foster collaboration, and maximize impact for students and communities.
LaNetra Guess
Rod Pruitt
Tiffany Loftin
ESC Region 14
Dr. John Phillips
ESC Region 14
Carrie Atchison
ESC Region 14
04/23/2025 03:15 pm
to
04:30 pm
Rickey Santellana
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Foundational
Are you stepping into the exciting and challenging role of a Federal Program Director? This session is tailored for new directors, offering a comprehensive guide to navigate the essential responsibilities and strategies of this pivotal position. Gain practical tools, actionable insights, and valuable perspectives to unlock opportunities and drive meaningful impact in your work. Learn from an experienced director, share your journey with peers, and leave equipped with a clear path to success.
Elizabeth Garza
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Foundational
How do you leverage funding to generate innovative programs for your scholars? Coordination of funding can aid in addressing the wide-ranging needs of students while generating opportunities for exposure to new skills and passions that students would not otherwise have based on socioeconomic status. By applying the funding flexibility of Title IV, along with local, state, and outside grant partnerships, an innovative after-school program was born. Let’s talk about how to open up new prospects for your scholars while leveraging the existing resources.
Dr. Patricia Glaeser
Channelview ISD
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Join this interactive roundtable to explore effective strategies for supporting Texas'
homeless and migratory student populations. With the number of homeless students rising
and migratory students declining, recruiters face unique challenges in addressing these
vulnerable groups' needs. This session will highlight dual identification strategies to
address homelessness and migratory needs, overcoming barriers to enrollment,
attendance, and academic success, and securing access to essential resources like
transportation, meals, and counseling services. Enhance your knowledge and take
actionable steps to provide comprehensive support for these student populations!
Angie Balderrama
ESC Region 18
Brenda Thompson
ESC Region 5
TIna Haywood
ESC Region 14
Harry Brooks
Bay City ISD
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Schools and districts receiving Title I, Part A funding must complete a yearly Comprehensive Needs Assessment (CNA) to plan for the next school year. Parents and other stakeholders play a vital role in this process, and their input is essential for student success. This session will explore practical ways to effectively involve parents in the needs assessment and planning stages.
Shannon Elliott
Title I, Part A Parent and Family Engagement Statewide Initiative
Shannon Lang
Title I, Part A Parent and Family Engagement Statewide Initiative
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Explore Title IV, Part A through clear examples and nonexamples. We'll cover topics such as objectives and measurable outcomes, allowable use of funds, infrastructure, and the supplement not supplant requirement. Gain practical insights to ensure compliance. Perfect for LEAs and ESCs seeking actionable guidance.
Tiffany Loftin
ESC Region 14
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Join us for an engaging workshop that explores the “This is How We Do It” approach to Migrant Education Programs (MEP). In this session, we’ll dive deep into how building meaningful relationships with migratory students and families is the foundation of successful Identification and Recruitment, Priority for Service, and the creation of an impactful Parent Advisory Council. We will include strategies for creating a welcoming environment and engaging families as we collaborate to make sure every migratory student feels seen, supported, and ready to succeed!
Tara Evers
ESC Region 7
Marisol Mancha
ESC Region 7
Kerri Brice
ESC Region 7
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Navigate the complexities of ESSA compliance with practical tools designed for efficiency and clarity. This session introduces the ESSA Compliance Checklist and Rank and Serve document—innovative resources that simplify federal requirements. Learn how to streamline compliance monitoring, ensure equitable service distribution, and confidently meet accountability standards. Attendees will explore strategies for implementation, gain insights into best practices, and leave equipped with tools ready to apply in their districts. Whether you’re new to ESSA or seeking to refine your processes, this session offers actionable solutions to maximize impact and minimize challenges.
Robin White
Chapel Hill ISD
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
This session focuses on the vital role of family engagement in supporting student mental health. Participants will learn strategies for fostering strong school-family partnerships, improving communication, overcoming barriers to involvement, and creating supportive home environments. Participants will gain practical tools to enhance mental health initiatives through collaboration between families and schools.
Vicki Reynolds
Hand2Mind
Kim Jones
Hand2Mind
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
This training will focus on EDGAR Time and Effort federal reporting requirements for employees funded in part or in whole with federal dollars. Meeting compliance in using TEAs Substitute System of Time and Effort Reporting, job description requirements, written policies and procedures and federal monitoring will be covered.
Brande Bass
New Caney ISD
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Discover how your district can empower teachers and increase their earning potential through two impactful state initiatives: the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) and National Board Certification (NBC). This session offers a concise overview of both programs, highlighting their benefits, implementation processes, and the funding opportunities they bring. Learn how to support educators in achieving recognition for their excellence while maximizing financial incentives for your district. Whether you're new to TIA and NBC or looking to enhance your current efforts, this session provides practical insights to help you get started and succeed in making a tangible difference for your teachers.
MaryBeth Flippin
ESC Region 15
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
This session will highlight McAllen ISD’s Crime Prevention and Mental Health Program. Buddy and Penny, two Mental Health therapy canines at McAllen ISD, have helped hundreds of students during a crisis, or simply made their day better when they conduct campus/classroom visits. As part of the district’s police department, Crime Prevention & Mental Health Officers handle Buddy and Penny during classroom visits, school events, parent meetings, and community events. Definitely making a Pawsitive Impact!
Dr. Cynthia Olivarez
McAllen ISD
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Struggling to spend your T4PA funds effectively? Learn how music can provide a valuable solution, benefiting students' executive functioning, emotional expression, and motor skill development.
Carrie Atchison
ESC Region 14
Tiffany Loftin
ESC Region 14
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
In this interactive session, we will dive into practical strategies to prepare your teachers and students for TELPAS testing- without draining your budget. You’ll learn how to effectively leverage existing resources, access free or low-cost tools, and create support systems that help teachers feel confident and equipped for TELPAS success. Whether you’re working with tight funding or seeking new ways to maximize resources, this session will provide innovative solutions that are both impactful and cost-effective. Join us to discover how to be budget-savvy while ensuring TELPAS readiness!
Dr. Jennifer Burr
ESC Region 10
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Part 1 of 3: Join us as we dive into 2025 State Accountability Domain 1 – Student Achievement, 2B – School Progress, Relative Performance, and 3C – Progress in Achieving English Language Proficiency. This session is designed to make understanding academic accountability fun and informative. We'll delve into key performance metrics, standards, calculations, and consequences. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to your role, this workshop will equip you with the essential tools and knowledge to confidently navigate the accountability landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow!
Dr. Donna Summers
Pasadena ISD
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Before you can turn up the dial and consult on equitable services, you’ve got to find the right audience! This session will take participants on a deep dive into the outreach process—helping you locate and connect with eligible private schools both inside and outside district boundaries. Learn rock-solid strategies to expand your reach, fine-tune your messaging, and ensure no school is left out of the conversation. Walk away with the tools to supercharge your outreach efforts and make meaningful connections that set the stage for effective consultation. Let’s remix the way we find and engage private schools—because the best outreach never goes out of style!
Michele Mangrum
ESC Region 7
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
This session offers a unique perspective on the intersection of education, trauma, and homelessness. Join us as an educator shares their deeply personal experience living with a student identified under the McKinney-Vento Act. The session will explore how trauma manifests in children from high-risk homes, the challenges and rewards of providing stability, and the lasting impact of compassionate intervention. Participants will gain practical insights on building trust with students facing housing insecurity and supporting their academic, emotional, and social needs. This session will leave you inspired to see beyond the classroom and become a champion for resilience and hope.
Melissa Burnheimer
ESC Region 9
Christina McCrary
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Unlock the power of collaboration in this dynamic workshop designed to help districts and campuses work together to enhance parent and family engagement. Discover strategies to create a seamless pipeline that connects district-level initiatives with campus-specific efforts, fostering cohesive collaboration that supports families at every level.
Participants will explore the NISD framework that aligns goals, communication, and resources that prioritize family engagement, strengthen partnerships, and create a unified approach to student success. This session will also cover best practices for fostering trust, encouraging buy-in, and ensuring that every stakeholder—administrators, educators, parents, and community members—works together toward shared goals.
Raegan Grisby
Nacogdoches ISD
04/23/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Explore the power of purposeful planning to drive successful advocacy for emergent bilingual students. Learn actionable strategies and approaches to improve educational outcomes, promote fairness, and foster support for bilingual learners through intentional, results-driven advocacy efforts.
Marie Mendoza
Ph.D., Fort Worth ISD
04/23/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Whether you are new to federal programs or you have many years under your belt, trying to understand all of the activities associated with the ESSA Consolidated Grant can be overwhelming! We will discuss the timeline and general overview of these ESSA Grant activities: applying for the grant, submitting reports, understanding initial/revised/final planning amounts, NOGAs, etc. Plus I will show you where to find all the information and resources you need to ensure you meet all of those deadlines!
Jamie Barron
ESC Region 5
04/23/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Participants will learn best practices that foster trust and collaboration between districts and private nonprofit schools to effectively use equitable services and positively impact student achievement. The session will conduct an overview of the equitable services cycle of ongoing consultation which includes the comprehensive needs assessment (CNA) and program plan development. Attendees will leave with strategies and resources on how to effectively engage PNPs in the consultation cycle to maximize their equitable services.
Sharon Sanchez
Northside ISD
Marissa Rodriguez
Northside ISD
04/23/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
This presentation will guide district leaders in effectively linking their Budget Codes to the Comprehensive Needs Assessment (CNA) to the District Improvement Plan (DIP) and the ESSA Consolidated Application. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of how to create a seamless connection between their budgets and district needs, improvement planning, and federal funding in order to meet financial compliance.
Cindy Borden
Seguin ISD
Louise Day
Ingleside ISD
04/23/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Part 2 of 3: Join us as we dive into 2025 State Accountability 3C – Progress in Achieving English Language Proficiency, 3D – School Quality/Success, and 3A – Academic Achievement. This session is designed to make understanding academic accountability fun and informative. We'll delve into key performance metrics, standards, calculations, and consequences. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to your role, this workshop will equip you with the essential tools and knowledge to confidently navigate the accountability landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow!
Dr. Donna Summers
Pasadena ISD
04/23/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Cut through the complexity of preparing for your comprehensive needs assessment meetings and minimize those marathon data-dives. Let AI handle the heavy lifting of CNA committee coordination, simplifying complex data, and aligning historical trends—so your meetings start with insights, not just information.
Cindy Gibson
806 Technologies
04/23/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
This engaging professional development session highlights the shared responsibility of educators and families in preparing students for College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR). Participants will explore the conversations that open the door for parents and educators to guide student exploration and provide students with the tools and support needed to pursue their vision. It's not enough to ask them what they want to be when they "grow up," we must ask them how they want to live! Through collaboration, discussion, and action planning, attendees will gain insights into how they can empower students to succeed in their chosen pathways.
Dayna Guyton
Lackland ISD
04/23/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
ESSA Programs
Jamie Goodwin
Statewide ESSA Title I, Part A Capacity Building Initiative
04/23/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Feeling stretched thin by the demands of your role? You’re not alone. This interactive, research-based session will guide you through simple, powerful resilience strategies to help manage stress, sustain motivation, and improve effectiveness in any role. Through hands-on reflection and discussion, you’ll explore locus of control, thinking traps, and small shifts that restore motivation and focus. You’ll walk away with practical strategies you can apply immediately, whether you’re directing federal programs, ensuring policies lead to meaningful student success and support, or working directly with students. This session will help you recharge, reflect, and take action.
Kristin Padilla
Catapult Learning
Ken Bordelon
Bordelon, Catapult Learning
04/23/2025 11:30 am
to
12:00 pm
The speaker for this session will be presenting remotely.
Idalia Ibanez
TEA
Nez Paniagua-Jimenez
TEA
04/23/2025 02:30 pm
to
03:00 pm
This session will be presented virtually. Meaning the speaker will not be there physically but you may head to Champions I to watch the session.
Gerardo Ramirez
04/23/2025 03:15 pm
to
03:45 pm
Dr. Desiree Viramontes
04/23/2025 04:00 pm
to
04:30 pm
Vivian Smyrl
Jaime Huerta
04/23/2025 11:30 am
to
12:00 pm
04/23/2025 02:30 pm
to
03:00 pm
04/23/2025 03:15 pm
to
03:45 pm
04/23/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Please think about the following questions:
04/23/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Please think about the following questions:
04/23/2025 03:15 pm
to
04:15 pm
Please think about the following questions:
If you could ask for one thing from TEA to help your federal grants, what would it be?
If you could convince TEA to stop doing one thing with grants, what would it be?
What is your biggest pain point as you administer federal grants?
04/24/2025 08:00 am
to
08:30 am
You only need to join one facilitator meeting for the duration of the conference.
04/24/2025 08:30 am
to
09:00 am
Student Entertainment: Elsik HS Treble Choir
NAFEPA Updates
04/24/2025 08:30 am
to
10:00 am
Introduction by Ztastic
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
12:00 pm
Title IV, Part A Statewide Initiative -
Embark on a journey through the Title IV, Part A, galaxy as we explore strategies for excellence in federal program implementation. Learn how to navigate through requirements, foster collaboration, and maximize impact for students and communities.
LaNetra Guess
Rod Pruitt
Dr. John Phillips
ESC Region 14
Tiffany Loftin
ESC Region 14
Carrie Atchison
ESC Region 14
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
12:00 pm
Participants will have the opportunity to review a variety of documentation examples related to the Title I, Part A requirements that were included in this year’s program monitoring validations. We will identify areas that can cause issues, as well as best practices that LEAs might want to replicate.
Jaime Huerta
Vivian Smyrl
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
03:00 pm
Come explore the New World of Risk Assessment. We will examine the 2025-2026 Risk Assessment indicators and catch a glimpse of new 2026-2027 indicators. The exploration will also include the opportunity to interact with other cosmic explorers and preview our redesigned Risk Assessment report. As we end our journey, participants will have an opportunity to share their insight on how we can improve our journey of New World of Risk Assessment indicators and reports to provide the insight needed to make this mission successful.
Cal Lopez
TEA
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
03:00 pm
Jaime Huerta
Vivian Smyrl
04/24/2025 03:15 pm
to
04:30 pm
Micheal Loya
Liza Lorenzi
Lisa Thompson
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Advanced
During this session, we'll briefly cover some McKinney-Vento basics, but the focus will be on equipping school staff—front office personnel, registrars, bus drivers, teachers, and others—to recognize subtle signals and key phrases that may indicate a student is McKinney-Vento-eligible. We'll provide practical tips for responding with respect and sensitivity, ensuring that students and families maintain their dignity throughout the process. We'll offer suggestions for gathering information about a student's situation without prying, so appropriate services can be offered while maintaining a safe and supportive environment.
Courtney Thomas
ESC Region 7
Leslie Dowdle
ESC Region 7
Tara Evers
ESC Region 7
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Advanced
Dive into the world of TELPAS and learn how to effectively use it as a tool for monitoring student growth. We will guide you through the assessment and show you how to align instructional strategies with question types. We will also explore the importance of goal setting with students and how to effectively communicate the purpose of TELPAS to both students and parents.
Ana Segulin
ESC Region 13
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Foundational
Join us for a laid-back workshop where we’ll explore practical tips and strategies for getting the most out of your projects as we share our pilot program and success story with you. Whether you're a newbie or have some experience under your belt, this workshop is all about sharing ideas and best practices to help you maximize the impact of your projects/events. Let’s come together, get inspired, and take our grant game to the next level where we are potentially empowering all the audiences we serve.
Alexandria Nieto
ESC Region 15
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Foundational
When we make a referral to an outside mental health agency, do we know what our students will experience? This session will provide educators with a view inside some of the mental health agency types students are likely to encounter, and will explore the distinctions between private practice counseling, community mental health centers (LMHA’s), and the growing field of teletherapy. Participants will also learn about benefits and limitations of each agency type, will explore a “continuum of care” view that may help guide referrals, and will gain ideas on forming partnerships with providers and agencies.
Jonathan Cogburn
LMFT ESC Region 14
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Advanced
This session equips federal program directors with actionable strategies to transform Emergent Bilingual (EB) student support. Participants will discover how to:
Foster seamless communication: We'll explore building integrated systems that connect families, teachers, and administrators, ensuring everyone stays informed and collaborates effectively.
Unlock data-driven insights: Learn how real-time data, coupled with Ellevation's robust platform, allows for targeted interventions and data-informed decision-making, aligning with federal/state policy requirements.
Simplify audit processes: Experience the ease of streamlined documentation, transparent reporting, and efficient compliance with Ellevation's powerful audit support features.
Leave empowered to implement effective strategies ensuring every EB student receives the support they need to thrive.
Addie Rucker
Ellevation Education
Dr. Yolanda Rios
Ellevation Education
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Programmatic
This session will provide educators, administrators, and support staff with essential knowledge and strategies for ensuring compliance with the McKinney-Vento Act and other relevant federal guidelines. Participants will explore the importance of meeting the needs of students experiencing homelessness, understand the legal protections and rights under the McKinney-Vento Act, and learn how to navigate federal policies that promote educational equity. Attendees will walk away with practical tools and resources to support student success, maintain legal compliance, and enhance advocacy efforts for vulnerable student populations.
Rosanne Wagner
ESC Region 3
Taniqua Blakely
ESC Region 9
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Programmatic
This session will provide our department's story of how we have supported students and parents with preparing for college before senior year. We will highlight programs, workshops, tips and ideas that have been successful to create an urgency and awareness for parents to start the college preparation process in 9th grade.
Tamara Liddell
Mansfield ISD
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Is your Administrative Procedure Manual (APM) up to date after the recent Uniform Grant Guidance changes? Did you update existing or adequatley document policies and procedures to prevent potentional findings? This session is to review requirements for your Administrative Procedure Manual to meet TEAs Internal Control Questionnaires for an audit. We will also review information on the required written policies and procedures when using federal funds
Brande Bass
New Caney ISD
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Advanced
Cooking with the Right Ingredients for Language Growth is an interactive session designed to inspire educators with practical strategies for supporting emergent bilingual students. Through engaging learning activities and hands-on materials, participants will explore thematic, purposeful experiences that promote English language development in meaningful ways. This session will highlight dynamic learning environments where students actively build vocabulary, communication skills, and confidence through storytelling and intensive routines. Educators will leave with ready-to-use ideas and a deeper understanding of how to create immersive, engaging spaces that foster language growth. Join us for a lively, resource-rich session that brings language learning to life!
Pedro Garcia
Marble Falls ISD
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Programmatic
Struggling to keep families and the community actively involved in your schools? Finding fresh, exciting ideas can be time-consuming, costly, and—let’s be honest—sometimes a little frustrating when turnout falls flat. Let’s change that!
Join us for a dynamic, interactive session packed with creative, easy-to-implement strategies that will boost engagement across your campuses and district. You’ll leave with a treasure trove of fresh ideas and inspiration—plus the chance to share your own tried-and-true gems with fellow educators. Get ready to spark new connections and energize your family and community partnerships like never before!
Ashley Sladecek
Scholastic
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Take your Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to the next level with a focus on achieving outstanding College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) outcomes. This session is tailored for educators committed to strengthening CTE program effectiveness through strategic compliance, best practices, and targeted accountability. Discover practical insights and actionable strategies to enhance your CTE programs, meet CCMR goals, and drive meaningful student success. Don’t miss this opportunity to lead your programs to excellence in CTE and CCMR.
Kimberly Harris
ESC Region 7
Carrie Chandler
ESC Region 7
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
This workshop provides essential training on recognizing and reporting sexual abuse, human trafficking, and other forms of child maltreatment. Participants will learn key indicators of abuse and trafficking, the legal responsibilities of reporting, and the steps to take when a child’s safety is at risk.
Julissa R. Alvarado
The Children's Assessment Center
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Part 3 of 3: Join us as we dive into 2025 State Accountability 2A – School Progress, Academic Growth, 3C – Progress in Achieving English Language Proficiency, and 3B – Academic Growth/Federal Graduation Status! This session is designed to make understanding academic accountability fun and informative. We'll delve into key performance metrics, standards, calculations, and consequences. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to your role, this workshop will equip you with the essential tools and knowledge to confidently navigate the accountability landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and grow!
Dr. Donna Summers
Pasadena ISD
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
This session focuses on the vital role of family engagement in supporting student mental health. Participants will learn strategies for fostering strong school-family partnerships, improving communication, overcoming barriers to involvement, and creating supportive home environments. Participants will gain practical tools to enhance mental health initiatives through collaboration between families and schools
Alex Robles
ESC Region 15
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Advanced
Your District and Campus Plans and your SCE Policies and Procedures are considered the primary source of auditable documentation of the SCE program for your district and campuses. Attend this session to develop a "flight plan" for your district's mission of compliance and effective implementation of your SCE program.
Vickie Ansley
ACET Finance Chair
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Ensuring private school officials understand their opportunities under ESSA is key to fostering strong partnerships and compliance. In this session, ESC staff will explore the importance of hosting equitable services informational meetings for private school officials, learn strategies to clarify requirements, and address common misconceptions before they become roadblocks. Gain practical tools to facilitate productive conversations, enhance collaboration, and ensure private schools receive the support they need. Let’s move from reactive to proactive in building stronger ESSA engagement
Michele Mangrum
ESC Region 7
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Advanced
As educators and administrators it is our job to create an inclusive school culture that fosters resilience and growth among our students. Join us to learn how thoughtful discipline can be a catalyst for positive change and empowerment. The workshop will focus on developing strategies that balance structure with empathy, ensuring that disciplinary measures are both fair and supportive to our McKinney-Vento population. Students experiencing homelessness face unique challenges that impact their behavior and learning. Traditional discipline often worsens their struggles, while compassionate, trauma-informed approaches foster resilience and growth. This session equips educators with practical strategies to shift from punitive to restorative discipline, addressing root causes of behavior while promoting accountability. Through discussions and real-world scenarios, participants will learn how to create a supportive, structured environment that helps McKinney-Vento students succeed. Participants will engage in discussions and activities aimed at understanding the challenges faced by this vulnerable population and how we can utilize tools created by the Texas Education Agency to guarantee success
Marilu Calixto
ESC Region 8
Alexandria Nieto
ESC Region 15
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Whether you are new to federal programs or you have many years under your belt, trying to understand all of the activities associated with the ESSA Consolidated Grant can be overwhelming! We will discuss the timeline and general overview of these ESSA Grant activities: applying for the grant, submitting reports, understanding initial/revised/final planning amounts, NOGAs, etc. Plus I will show you where to find all the information and resources you need to ensure you meet all of those deadlines!
Jamie Barron
ESC Region 5
04/24/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
This session empowers educators with strategies to guide students toward nontraditional careers by addressing gender-based stereotypes. Nontraditional careers are those in which one gender makes up less than 25% of the workforce, such as women in engineering or men in nursing. These career choices often face societal bias, discouraging students from exploring their interests.
Participants will learn how to foster supportive environments, use practical tools, and inspire confidence in students to pursue fulfilling careers outside traditional gender roles. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to help students break barriers and discover opportunities aligned with their passions and skills.
Raquel Gillham
ESC Region 10
04/24/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
"Join us for an immersive training session titled ""Space for Emotions: Exploring the Stars of Social Health,"" where we embark on a cosmic journey to understand and enhance our emotional well-being and social connections.
In this interactive presentation, participants will:
Discover the vital role of emotional health in overall well-being and its impact on relationships.
Explore various emotional “planets” that represent different feelings, learning how to identify and express them effectively.
Engage in activities that foster social skills, empathy, and communication, bridging the gap between understanding emotions and building strong connections with others.
Learn strategies for navigating challenges and stressors, using space-themed concepts to illustrate methods for resilience and self-care.
Collaborate with peers in discussions and exercises that foster a supportive environment, much like a community of stars in the vast universe.
By the end of this training, participants will leave with practical tools and insights to cultivate their emotional health and strengthen their social relationships, all while enjoying a unique and engaging space theme. Join us as we launch towards a brighter, healthier emotional future!"
Dr. Amber Reed
ESC Region 10
04/24/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
New to federal programs? Feeling overwhelmed by all of the jargon, acronyms, key players and resources? Join us as we navigate through who and what you need to know and which resources are a must to get you through the year!
Jamie Goodwin
Statewide ESSA Title I, Part A Capacity Building Initiative
04/24/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Advanced
In this session, ESC McKinney-Vento liaisons will learn how to leverage OSP Self-Assessment results to guide and support strong LEA McKinney-Vento programs. Through professional development, coaching, custom data tools, and project management, ESCs will enhance their capacity to support LEA programs through scaffolded supports. Attendees will gain practical strategies and resources to build a strong foundation for McKinney-Vento program success across their region.
Ashley Stevenson
ESC Region 11
Anna Lee
ESC Region 11
Lesley Cathey
ESC Region 11
Tori Sisk
ESC Region 11
Casey Gaines
ESC Region 11
04/24/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Advanced
This session is designed to equip local liaisons and school personnel with the knowledge and tools to effectively support immigrant students experiencing homelessness. This session aims to help schools serve immigrant students in public schools, connect them to community resources, and support their transition to higher education.
Marilu Calixto
ESC Region 8
Deyanira Torres
ESC Region 8
04/24/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Foundational
Discover how ChatGPT goes beyond writing emails to support strategic decision-making, enhance efficiency, and improve communication. This session will feature real-world examples and hands-on activities to help you use AI as a thinking partner. Key Takeaways: Using ChatGPT for decision support and scenario planning; writing better prompts for more effective responses; and streamlining tasks and processing information This session empowers federal program directors, student advocates, and district leaders to maximize AI’s potential in their roles. This session does not promote or sell any product but demonstrates how AI tools like ChatGPT enhance workflow and decision-making.
Marie Becker
Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD
04/24/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Piece together the elements of Title IV, Part A in this interactive session. Learn about research-based, effective strategies for activities, and how to align them with Objectives and Measurable Outcomes (OMOs). Discover how to SMART-ify your OMOs for clarity and impact. Engage in hands-on practice with OMOs, and fit the pieces together to enhance your educational initiatives.
Dr. John Phillips
ESC Region 14
Tiffany Loftin
ESC Region 14
04/24/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Advanced
Launch into transformative professional development with strategies that empower educators to build strong, sustainable family-school partnerships. Through team leadership and personal strengths development, staff gain the knowledge and experience needed to enhance collaboration, strengthen leadership capacity, and create inclusive, effective engagement. With over 270,000 parent graduates, Family Leadership’s bilingual workshops and training series provide manageable, transferable practices that equip staff and move parents from spectators to active team players. Engage in hands-on demonstrations, explore best practices from districts nationwide, and gain the tools needed to boost student success through meaningful family connections.
Alejandro Vidal
Family Leadership, Inc.
Nadine Wolfe
Family Leadership, Inc.
04/24/2025 03:30 pm
to
04:30 pm
Programmatic
Discover innovative ways to strengthen the bridge between schools & families in this hands-on, interactive workshop. Explore creative approaches to break barriers that often hinder parent engagement and learn actionable strategies to foster meaningful connections with families. Gain insights into securing funding to support your initiatives and leave with a toolkit of ready-to-implement ideas to transform family engagement in your school or community. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or family liaison, this workshop will equip you with the tools to make family partnerships stronger than ever. Let’s reimagine parent involvement and inspire lasting collaboration for student success!
Raegan Grisby
Nacogdoches ISD
04/24/2025 11:30 am
to
12:00 pm
Dr. Desiree Viramontes
04/24/2025 02:30 pm
to
03:00 pm
LaNetra Guess
04/24/2025 03:15 pm
to
03:45 pm
Cal Lopez
TEA
04/24/2025 04:00 pm
to
04:30 pm
Rickey Santellana
04/24/2025 11:30 am
to
12:00 pm
04/24/2025 02:30 pm
to
03:00 pm
04/24/2025 03:15 pm
to
03:45 pm
04/24/2025 10:30 am
to
11:30 am
Please think about the following questions:
1. If you could ask for one thing from TEA to help your federal grants, what would it be?
2. If you could convince TEA to stop doing one thing with grants, what would it be?
3. What is your biggest pain point as you administer federal grants?
04/24/2025 01:30 pm
to
02:30 pm
Please think about the following questions:
If you could ask for one thing from TEA to help your federal grants, what would it be?
If you could convince TEA to stop doing one thing with grants, what would it be?
What is your biggest pain point as you administer federal grants?
04/24/2025 03:15 pm
to
04:15 pm
Please think about the following questions:
1. If you could ask for one thing from TEA to help your federal grants, what would it be?
2. If you could convince TEA to stop doing one thing with grants, what would it be?
3. What is your biggest pain point as you administer federal grants?
04/25/2025 08:30 am
to
12:00 pm
Please join us as Cory and Nick wrap up the conference with a closing presentation
There will also be student entertainment during the 10:00-10:15 break!
Nick Davis
Cory Green
Conference Hotel Rate: $128
DoubleTree Galleria (5353 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX 77056)
Doubletree Galleria for 128 USD per night
Westin Galleria Houston (5060 West Alabama, Houston, TX, 77056)
Westin Galleria for 128 USD per night
Hilton Garden Inn (3201 Sage Road Houston, TX 77056)
Hilton Garden Inn for 128 USD per night
Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston (2911 Sage Road Houston, TX 77056)
Embassy Suites for 128 USD per night