See what we offered in last year’s workshops and general sessions.
Director of Education, Crew Concept
Co-Founder & COO, Crew Concept
President, Colorado League of Charter Schools
Partner, Crisis & Issues Management Practice Lead, Ground Floor Media | Center Table
Early Learning & School Support Coordinator, Colorado Charter School Institute
Moderators: Dan Schaller
The upcoming election and the legislative session to follow promise to be consequential ones for charter schools and public education. Who will win? Will there be significant shifts in the balance of power? What will it all mean for education and education funding? How will charter schools fare? An esteemed group of elected officials, political pundits and education experts will answer these and other questions with League President Dan Schaller as part of this engaging panel discussion.
Are you harnessing the full potential of technology to transform your school's learning experience? Join us for an insightful session with a pioneer in the EdTech space! Mickey will share emerging trends and practical strategies for integrating technology into your charter school's curriculum while harnessing it as a cataylst for student growth. Learn from a true visionary and leave inspired to take your student learning experience to the next level.
Join Dr. Kelli Harding for an inspiring keynote session as she explores the invisible factors that shape our health, such as kindness, community, and purpose. Her insights are based on her groundbreaking book, "The Rabbit Effect". Dr. Harding will connect her research to leadership in the charter school environment, showing how compassion and human connection can be a catalyst for not only improving personal well-being but also fostering healthier, more resilient school communities. Learn practical strategies to lead with empathy and build a supportive environment for both staff and students.
This workshop delves into the tools, frameworks and intricacies of fostering strong board dynamics, enhancing communication, and cultivating a culture of accountability. Participants will explore how to effectively use performance data and stakeholder input to guide decision-making, ensuring actions are not only aligned with the school's mission but also responsive to its unique challenges and opportunities. By focusing on long-term strategic planning, leadership evaluation and succession planning, boards can serve as a catalyst for meaningful, sustainable school improvement and positive student outcomes.
During this interactive workshop, leaders will explore the relationship between their values, vision and reputation. Often, in the whirlwind that is public education, leaders experience tension over whether or not they should show up as their “leader” self or their "real" self. This session will provide attendees with three key priorities to consider that can serve as healthy catalysts within the leadership journey.
There's no question that today's parents embrace school choice. However, the options they consider now have expanded to include hybrid homeschooling, microschools, roadschooling, and more. It's a trend seen across the country, even in states like Colorado that have been cautious about public funding for these options. Join Mickey for an exploration of the various catalysts of a rapidly mutating educational choice ecosystem, including implications for charters and the strategies every charter school leader should consider as a result.
In this authorizer-focused workshop, participants will explore strategies to enhance collaboration between authorizer staff and school board decision-makers. Through discussion and examples from CACSA's cross-state partners in Florida and California, as well as examples from Colorado, attendees will gain insights into successful partnerships that prioritize the needs of those implementing educational initiatives on the ground. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with tools to bridge the gap between doers and decision-makers, ultimately authorizing for greater impact in education.
Join us for an engaging panel featuring leading authorizers from Colorado, as well as guests from California and Florida, as they share their best practices and success stories in the field of education authorizing. This session will explore innovative strategies that have led to effective oversight and support for schools, highlighting the unique approaches of each state and district. Panelists will discuss their experiences in navigating challenges, fostering collaboration, and ensuring accountability, while emphasizing student outcomes. Attendees will gain valuable insights and actionable takeaways to better understand their local authorizing practices and drive positive change in their regions.
As we navigate an increasingly unpredictable political landscape, Colorado stands at a critical juncture for education policy. Join our panel as we explore current ballot measures and rumors circulating at the state Capital. We'll also provide insight into the League's proactive policy agenda for the 2025 legislative session.
It has been two years since the state made changes to the rule regarding choice enrollment of students with disabilities, and there continues to be stories of gaps in its implementation. What is the impact of these gaps? Where do we go from here? In this session, participants will gain knowledge and resources to help them navigate choice recruitment, enrollment, and the offer of a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) of students with disabilities.
Challenge the current status quo by exploring what happens when schools shift the paradigm from technical AI applications to an adaptive, critically aligned approach. Using Aurora Public Schools' pioneering epistemology and strategic framework for AI integration, this workshop offers a moonshot for reimagining public education with AI as the catalyst. Based on real-world lessons, we'll explore how to (1) innovate learning ecosystems with AI; (2) focus on measurable, impactful outcomes; and (3) avoid the pitfalls of ineffective integration. This presentation isn't just about AI in education; it's about reshaping the future of teaching and learning.
Manager, Talent Strategy, Uncommon Schools, Inc
Abbey Hinton is a talent management leader with nearly a decade at Uncommon Schools, where she has driven employee experience, performance management, and leadership development. As Manager of Talent Strategy, she has redesigned career pathways, implemented data-driven performance systems, and enhanced engagement initiatives.
With expertise in organizational effectiveness and inclusive talent practices, Abbey aligns strategy with mission-driven goals to foster high-performing teams. A University of Kansas graduate in Sociology, she is passionate about leveraging data and leadership development to create meaningful change in education.
(82) Group Health Insurance: Navigating Coming Changes with Confidence Thursday @ 1:30 PM
Grant Director, Colorado League of Charter Schools
Tanesha Bell is the Project Director for Great Schools Colorado, overseeing all activities related to the federal Charter Schools Program (CSP) grant. She ensures alignment with project goals, compliance with federal regulations, and serves as the primary liaison with the US Department of Education. With extensive experience in federal grant management, Tanesha previously worked with the Colorado Department of Education, providing training and support to grant recipients during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has also administered grants from the Corporation for National and Community Service and the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Tanesha holds a BA from Drury University located in Springfield, MO and is a graduate of Manual High School (Go Thunderbolts!!!).(122) Understanding Allowable Costs in the Federal CSP Grant Friday @ 8:30 AM
Founder & CEO, Willow Education
A seasoned education leader and social entrepreneur, James is revolutionizing college and career counseling by empowering guidance counselors to help students discover their passions and find the best-fit educational paths. Before founding Willow, James successfully led Rocky Mountain Preparatory Schools, a network of high-performing charter schools in Colorado. Recognized for his innovative approach and commitment to student success, James has received numerous accolades, including being named one of Colorado’s “Public Education Game-Changers” by A+ Colorado and “Leader of the Year” by the Colorado League of Charter Schools. He actively serves on various boards, including the Middlebury Area Land Trust, and has been a mentor and lecturer at prestigious institutions like MIT, Middlebury, and Colby.(24) Building Purpose-Driven Pathways: Preparing Colorado Students For the Future of Work Thursday @ 8:30 AM
Executive Director, Colorado Association of Charter School Authorizers
Experienced Schools and Systems Director with a demonstrated history of working in the education management industry. Understanding of research methods and strong expertise in charter schools. Skilled in Event Planning, Customer Service, Strategic Planning, Public Speaking, and Microsoft Office. Strong education professional with a Doctor of Education - EdD focused in Educational Leadership and Administration, General from University of Colorado Denver.(114) Strategies for Engaging New and Emerging Authorizers Thursday @ 8:30 AM
(115) CACSA All Membership Meeting & Authorizer Lunch Thursday @ 1:30 PM
Vice President of Communications, Colorado League of Charter Schools
Peter brings over 30 years of marketing, branding, fundraising and nonprofit leadership experience to the League. He specializes in marketing communications, supporting several areas of the charter sector, including research, advocacy, and new school development.
“It’s inspiring to work with the League team to support all the passionate school leaders in our community who are building, developing and launching quality public schools,” he says. "I think it's critical that we all be aware of how the entire public education landscape needs to be healthy (including charters) so that parents and students have high-quality options regardless of their background.”
(150) Anatomy of Crisis Over Coffee Friday @ 7:43 AM
CEO & President, Elite Performance Solutions
Dr. Steve Miller, PhD, is a respected educator, researcher, and thought leader in Education Technology and STEM education. Passionate about advancing knowledge and empowering learners, he has dedicated his career to designing and evaluating impactful programs that enhance learning experiences.
Dr. Miller earned his doctorate from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where his research explored neuroplasticity and innovative teaching and learning methods. A sought-after speaker, he has presented at numerous national and international conferences, earning recognition for translating complex concepts into practical strategies.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Miller is deeply committed to STEM education and actively engages in his local community by supporting initiatives that drive meaningful change. He also enjoys mentoring young learners through coaching youth sports and activities.
(112) Neuroscience of Learning: Harnessing Data to Evaluate Efficacy for Science Resources Friday @ 1:30 PM
Principal, New America High School Aurora
Robert Newman is the principal of New America High School in Aurora, a school dedicated to serving immigrant and refugee students.
Robert is a passionate advocate for AI in education, exploring its potential to enhance student learning, support multilingual learners, and navigate the challenges of bias, governance, and accessibility. He regularly speaks on AI’s role in shaping the future of education, pushing for tools that empower students.
When he's not leading his school or discussing the future of AI, Robert enjoys drumming, cycling, and engaging in conversations about the intersections of technology, education, and society.
(58) AI's Impact on Education: Opportunities, Challenges, and the Path Forward Friday @ 1:30 PM
Attorney, Sparks Willson, P.C.
Ms. Petersen joined the firm in 2020 from St. Louis, Missouri with extensive experience in product liability defense. Julie’s current practice focuses primarily on education law and the representation of nonprofits. She is also a member of the firm’s litigation department.
:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-brown-petersen-2
(111) Explaining the Increase in Discrimination and Harassment Complaints in Charter Shools Thursday @ 1:30 PM
Founder, Chairman and CEO, Edge Foundation
As the Founder, Chairman and CEO of the Edge Foundation, Neil Peterson is dedicating his life to helping students with executive functioning challenges realize their full potential. An inveterate serial social entrepreneur, he is best known for being the founder of the groundbreaking carsharing service Flexcar, now known as Zipcar. Neil spent half of his professional career in the public sector in a variety of roles. He led Metro in Seattle as well as the transportation agencies in Los Angeles and Oakland California. Known for his creative approach to problem solving, during the past 16 years, he has focused on ways to bring a one-on-one Edge trained coach to young people no matter their age, economic circumstances, geographic location, ACE’s (adverse childhood experiences) or whether they find themselves in foster care, homeless or in the juvenile justice system.
The recipient of numerous awards, Neil is the author of Embracing the Edge, has a blog and podcast, and is a frequent speaker. His entrepreneurial endeavors have been featured in Time Magazine, Fortune Small Business, USA Today, the Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, New York Times, and on NPR, ABC World News Tonight and Good Morning America, among others.
(55) Executive Function: the Foundation of it All Thursday @ 8:30 AM
Special Services Administrator, KIPP Colorado
(33) Enough is Never Too Much: Designing Effective Student Supports through MTSS Friday @ 11:00 AM
Partner, Crisis & Issues Management Practice Lead, Ground Floor Media | Center Table
Jeremy is a seasoned professional with more than 25 years of experience developing and executing high-profile communications campaigns for organizations ranging from the Fortune 100 to nonprofit organizations to private startups. He is a partner in the agency and leads our Crisis & Issues Management practice.Throughout his career, he has provided public relations and crisis communications counsel to some of the most recognizable companies in the healthcare, education, energy, technology, professional services, transportation and nonprofit industries. He graduated from Baylor University with a bachelor’s degree in English and Journalism (Go Bears!), and he attended graduate school at the University of Colorado Boulder (Go Buffs!). His work has been recognized with a number of awards, including the PR industry’s highest honor, the PRSA Silver Anvil.
Jeremy grew up on the tree-lined streets of Atlanta, but attending graduate school in Boulder has made him a Colorado lifer. One of his heroes is Martin Luther King, Jr., whose legacy pulsed throughout his hometown during his childhood. MLK struck Jeremy as the ultimate master of public relations, influencing people through the power of his ideas rather than force. Jeremy started his career as a journalist (he was even editor of his high school and college newspapers), and then blended writing and the art of persuasion to fashion a career in PR. One of his goals is to travel to all seven continents—so far, he’s checked off Europe, Asia, Africa and, of course, North America. He lives in Genesee with his wife.
(150) Anatomy of Crisis Over Coffee Friday @ 7:43 AM
Director of School Quality, Colorado League of Charter Schools
Karolina is proud to have been born and raised in Denver, Colorado. She began her education career as a teacher in Kansas City, Missouri, where she taught Spanish to Kindergarten through 8th grade students and Multilingual Learners from 6th through 9th grade. She was then inspired to become a founding teacher in San Jose, CA. Since Denver is where her roots are, she returned home to work at an elementary school in Southwest Denver.
Karolina has served in various roles within the educational landscape, both as a school leader and academic director. She has used her experience to support early startup entrepreneurs across the country who aim to start educational programs or schools as a senior lead at Camelback Ventures. She is truly dedicated to providing equitable opportunities for children so they can have a life full of possibilities.
Karolina graduated with honors from the University of Colorado Denver and holds an M.A.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Columbia University.
(146) Colorado Charter School’s Preschool Landscape and Universal Pre-K Friday @ 8:30 AM
Education Ambassador, CDW
Cari Warnock, an education ambassador at CDW, has more than 20 years of public education experience. She forges alliances with various education organizations, striving to create equitable opportunities for all students. Previously, she worked as an education strategist for Dell Technologies and led Girls Who Game with Microsoft and Intel.
:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cari-warnock-m-ed/
(139) Bolster Your Ed Tech Strategy, Involve Partners and Subject Matter Experts as Allies Thursday @ 11:30 AM
(134) You Received a Grant; Now What? Manage, Procure, and Track Grants Funds for Sustainability and Student Achievement Thursday @ 12:30 PM
(140) Pathways to STEM Careers: Getting Girls in the Game Thursday @ 2:00 PM
(147) Gamification, Immersive and Interactive Learning: Ideas to Grow Your Program Friday @ 12:15 PM
Early Learning & School Support Coordinator, Colorado Charter School Institute
With over 25 years serving children and adolescents first as a teacher, then school counselor, private therapist, principal, executive director of a charter school, author, consultant, and now as the School Support Specialist for Colorado Charter School Institute I am excited about the future of education. By embracing challenges with a Solutioning approach we learn, grow, and continue to improve!(146) Colorado Charter School’s Preschool Landscape and Universal Pre-K Friday @ 8:30 AM
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