Every Teacher A Leader Summit 2026: Full Schedule

As school districts increasingly integrate 1-to-1 device initiatives, the conversation must shift from mere technical proficiency to the cultivation of sustainable digital health. This session presents a comprehensive framework for a Digital Wellness Program that synthesizes three critical pillars: Digital Citizenship, Technical Mastery, and Cognitive Wellness. Rather than viewing these as disparate subjects, this integrated model treats them as a singular competency necessary for student success in a hyper-connected world.

Speakers

Eric Huntington

Technology Integrator, Cape Elizabeth Middle School

I am currently the technology integrator at Cape Elizabeth Middle School. I teach 8th grade technology and 6th grade digital wellness. This is my 18th year as an educator and I live in Portland, ME!

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT
Alfond 136

Innovation, 3-12

9:30am EDT

Escape the Ordinary: Unlocking Learning Through Classroom Escape Rooms

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT

Alfond 208

Turn your classroom into an adventure with escape rooms that spark curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking. In this session, you’ll explore how to design and implement engaging, content-rich escape experiences while experiencing one yourself, and leave with ready-to-use ideas to bring energy and purpose to your instruction.

Speakers

Allyson Gilbert

Science Teacher, Mt. Ararat High School

I’m an educator driven by curiosity, connection, and the belief that learning should matter beyond the classroom. After facing burnout early in my career, I rebuilt my approach around student voice, choice, and real-world impact. I design experiences that push students to ask big... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT
Alfond 208

Innovation, 6-12

9:30am EDT

Not Extras, Not Enrichment: The Power of Arts Integration

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT

This interactive session explores how arts integration can deepen learning, increase engagement, and build strong classroom communities. Participants will experience practical, ready-to-use strategies that blend the arts with core content areas, reflecting on how creative processes support academic, social-emotional, and cognitive growth. You’ll leave with simple ways to get started and a renewed understanding of the arts in your classroom.

Speakers

Joshua Chard

Arts Integration Teacher Leader Fellow, Maine Department of Education Office of Teaching and Learning

Joshua Chard is a second-grade teacher at East End Community School in Portland, Maine, and the 2024 Maine Teacher of the Year. With more than 30 years in education, he creates culturally responsive, arts-integrated learning experiences that center joyful relationships, student voice... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT

Innovation, K-8

9:30am EDT

The Quiet Revolution: Transforming Public Spaces with Montessori Magic

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT

Alfond 228

In a world of digital noise, a "Quiet Revolution" is happening within the hands of the child. Move beyond screens and worksheets and uncover the "magic" inside the Montessori pedagogy and curriculum. Through captivating visuals and hands-on materials, see how we can transform classrooms into serene sanctuaries that not only foster deep concentration and independence; but provide children with opportunities to learn through materials specifically designed to teach abstract concepts.

Speakers

Ashley Cirone

Kindergarten, Harrington Elementary School

Ashley has a B.A in Psychology with a focus on Early Childhood Education. She attended University of Maine and graduated with a M.Ed in Special Education. Throughout her career, she has spent time as a Special Education Ed Tech, a Second Grade Teacher, a K-8 Special Education Teacher... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT
Alfond 228

Innovation, K-2

9:30am EDT

Global Issues in Humanities: Curriculum for Sustainable Change

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT

Alfond 209

This session offers a model for interdisciplinary, project-based instruction, engaging students with local and global issues. Participants will explore mentor texts, build knowledge, interrogate bias and credibility, and amplify student voices. The session includes sample units aligned with Muhammad’s HILL model, providing space to adapt ideas for participants’ own classrooms.

Speakers

Stephanie Hendrix

Humanities Academy Coordinator, Bangor High School

Stephanie Hendrix is a Bangor-based educator and equity advocate with 24 years of experience teaching in public schools and 10 years in higher education. As a Leaders for Just Schools facilitator and Blended Learning Instructor for the NEA, she leads national cohorts of educators... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT
Alfond 209

Instruction

9:30am EDT

Interactions Build Language, Executive Function Skills, Ownership, and Community!

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT

Ayotte 103

With content AS process, this interactive experience engages participants in various structures that result in high-level engagement. Educators will examine how two-directional interactions, varied engagement opportunities, leveraging peers, and honed collaborative group work strengthens achievement.

Speakers

Jay Dionne

K-12 Language Development/ML Instructional Coach, Westbrook School Department

Jay Dionne is a K-12 Language Development/ML Instructional Coach for the Westbrook School Department, and is an adjunct professor at SMCC focusing on culturally responsive teaching. Jay is the founder of The Learning Riot, an organization entirely devoted to championing, challenging, and resourcing teachers fired up with art, skill, and will... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT
Ayotte 103

Relationships, General

9:30am EDT

Nourish to Flourish: An Educator Well-being Workshop

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT

Ayotte 104

“Nourish to Flourish” is designed to give educators a rejuvenating break from their day-to-day demands. Through active, fun, and reflective activities, participants will reconnect with themselves and with their peers — building a toolkit for self-care, stress reduction, and sustained well-being. By the end of the workshop, educators will leave feeling energized, supported, and equipped with practical strategies they can bring into their classrooms and personal lives.

Speakers

Dawn McLaughlin

Physical Education Teacher, Brownville Elementary School

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT
Ayotte 104

Relationships, K-8

9:30am EDT

Day-Dreaming is it!: Visioning Student-Led Projects

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT

Alfond 227

When polarization roars and hope can feel futile, dreaming is essential. This session is a collaborative brainstorming space to outline “dreamy” schoolwide change. Miranda Snyder briefly storytells her trial-and-error support of Civil Rights Team’s "dreams", big and small. Processing might happen via dialogue, writing, art - your dream’s “how” is up to you and your unique context.

Speakers

Miranda Snyder

English Teacher & Civil Rights Team Advisor, Mount Desert Island High School

Miranda Snyder (she/her) is in her fifth year teaching English at Mount Desert Island high school. She teaches mainly freshman, centering texts and writing around identity, belonging, and justice. She also advises the Civil Rights Team, a student-led activist group, and organized... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:30am - 10:45am EDT
Alfond 227

Teacher Leadership, General

10:45am EDT

Break

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:45am - 11:00am EDT

Jeanie's Cafe, Alfond

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:45am - 11:00am EDT
Jeanie's Cafe, Alfond

meal

11:00am EDT

Newitakehkimesi- Learning with One Another Through Wabanaki Studies Education

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT

Alfond 136

There is no one right way to teach Wabanaki Studies, nor a curriculum that can be bought. It is a way of teaching. We all learn differently, teach differently, however we all find connection through this place we call home. In this workshop, we'll look at resources to support and empower you, examples of educators who have woven Wabanaki Studies into their curriculum, and have the opportunity to leave with a plan that works for you and your students.

Speakers

Kaya Lolar

Director of Policy & Wabanaki Studies, Maine Environmental Education Association

Kaya Lolar is a citizen of the Panawahpskek Nation. She started at MEEA in 2023 as a Changemakers Fellow, transitioned to Policy & Wabanaki Studies Coordinator, and has since graduated from Harvard University in 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Anthropology and English. Kaya... Read More →

Brianne Lolar

Wabanaki Studies Specialist, Maine Department of Education

Brianne Lolar is a citizen of the Panawahpskek Nation and lives on Alenape Menehan, also known as Indian Island. She graduated from the University of Maine with a Bachelor’s in Social Work, a Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education, and a Master’s in Literacy. Brianne... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
Alfond 136

Equity, General

11:00am EDT

Keeping AI HUMAN in Every Classroom

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT

Alfond 209

This session teaches AI literacy using the HUMAN framework and classroom-ready EduProtocols. Explore low-prep, high-engagement strategies that help students use AI safely, ethically, and effectively. You’ll leave with practical, adaptable ideas to make AI literacy approachable and empowering across all content areas, plus fresh, student-centered ways to spark critical thinking, ethical reflection, and real classroom engagement.

Speakers

Kate Meyer

Instructional Innovation Specialist, Mount Desert Island High School

Kate Meyer is an instructional innovation specialist and high school English teacher in Bar Harbor, Maine, where she has taught for 25 years. From 2021 to 2023, she served as a Distinguished Educator with the Maine Department of Education. This position allowed her to travel throughout... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
Alfond 209

Innovation, General

11:00am EDT

Building Engagement and Background Knowledge in Grades K-8

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT

Ayotte 104

Readers of all ages use what they have learned about the world to make sense of new information. So, how do we build background knowledge from our classrooms? How do we build excitement about an upcoming topic? This session will explore different strategies educators can use in their own classrooms starting in the fall. Teachers will experience 4 or 5 strategies that can be adapted at any grade level and any subject. They will experience these strategies first hand, and then analyze the experience through a teacher lens. All of these activities will be active and engaging to build excitement about a topic. Finally, the educators will work together to develop a comprehensive list of ideas from their own experiences that will be recorded and shared with participants.

Speakers

Jessica Harvey

2nd Grade Teacher, Elm Street School (RSU16)

Jessica Harvey (she/her) is a 2nd grade classroom teacher at Elm Street School (RSU 16) in Mechanic Falls, ME and is the 2021 Androscoggin County Teacher of the Year. With a passion for outdoor learning, she co-founded her district's Get Everyone Outside Initiative (The G.E.O. Initiative... Read More →

Karen MacDonald

Retired Teacher, Teach Maine Center

Karen MacDonald (she/her) is a retired educator who spent 37 years in the Portland Public Schools teaching English Language Arts. In 2014 she was named Maine’s Teacher of the Year. Throughout her career, she worked to build an interdisciplinary model at King Middle School and... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
Ayotte 104

Instruction, K-8

11:00am EDT

Research to Reality: Rethinking Phonemic Awareness Instruction

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT

Alfond 227

Reading research has deepened our understanding of how words are learned and which instructional practices have the greatest impact. This session bridges research and classroom practice by building that understanding and sharing immediately usable routines that strengthen phonemic awareness and support children as they begin connecting sounds to spoken and written words.

Speakers

Kirsten Chansky

Instructional Coach, RSU14

Kirsten Chansky, M.S.Ed., is an instructional coach in RSU 14 and author of Sounds of Success. She supports educators in implementing research-aligned literacy practices that strengthen reading outcomes for all students. With over 18 years in education, she works alongside teachers to translate reading research into effective classroom instruction. Her work focuses on aligni... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
Alfond 227

Instruction, K-2

11:00am EDT

Writing as Leadership: Helping Students Use Language to Influence Their World

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT

Alfond 228

This interactive workshop explores how writing instruction can move beyond assignments to become a tool for student voice, agency, and leadership. Participants will engage in adaptable classroom activities that position students as contributors to real conversations through argument, storytelling, and public-facing writing. Teachers will leave with strategies to help students see writing not just as schoolwork, but as a way to lead, advocate, and make change.

Speakers

Dr. Sandip Wilson

Co-Director, Maine Writing Project, Husson University

Sandip Wilson, professor in the Husson University College of Science and Humanities and School of Education, serves as co-director of the Maine Writing Project and co-treasurer of the United States Book Board for Youth. She is a member of the USBBY Book Award Committee on children’s... Read More →

Ryan Roderick

Assistant Professor and Assistant Dean, Husson University

Abigail Erwin

My name is Abigail Erwin and I am a recent graduate of Husson University with a bachelors in Elementary Education. Throughout my time in Husson’s education program I was able to gain experience working with students spanning across a variety of different grade levels through practicum... Read More →

Heather Webster

K-12 Technology Coach, RSU 40

Heather Webster is a 2013 Maine Writing Project Teacher Consultant and the 2020 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year. This is her third year out of the English classroom—she is currently the K-12 technology coach for RSU 40. When Heather isn't supporting the teachers and technology... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
Alfond 228

Instruction, General

11:00am EDT

Stepping Out of the Circle: Transforming Discussion into Conversation

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT

Our classroom “discussions” were falling flat, so we created new structures to scaffold authentic conversation. We’d like to share what we learned about classroom talk, the challenges we faced, and the successes that encouraged us. Bonus: Students from our classes will join us to present their unique perspectives before facilitating an academic conversation with participants!

Speakers

Rachel Beckwith

ELA Teacher & Ch. 104 Coordinator, Leonard Middle School, RSU 34

Rachel Beckwith has been teaching middle school ELA (both general and honors) for 19 years. Two years ago, she earned her Ed.D. in Educational Studies (with a concentration in education reform).

Derek Bizier

8th Grade Math & Reading, Leonard Middle School, RSU 34

Derek Bizier is in his 5th year of teaching and his first year teaching ELA. All of his experience is with 8th graders. He also has his Secondary Math and K-8 General certifications.

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT

Relationships, 3-12

11:00am EDT

Educator Advocacy: Using Your Voice to Shape Education in Maine

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT

Alfond 208

Educators bring essential expertise to policy conversations, but the legislative and rulemaking process can feel difficult to navigate. This professional learning session demystifies how education policy is shaped in Maine, from legislation and rulemaking to the decisions that ultimately impact classrooms.
Participants will explore how to use their expertise, experience, and voice to advocate effectively for students, schools, and the teaching profession. Whether new to advocacy or already engaged, educators will leave with a deeper understanding of how policy decisions unfold and the many ways they can help shape education in Maine.

Speakers

Jodi Mezzanotte

Director of Educator Engagement, Educate Maine

Leah Boucher Enos

Grade 4 Teacher, Lewiston Public Schools

Leah Enos is a fourth-grade teacher and Civil Rights Team advisor at Farwell Elementary School in Lewiston, Maine. She was recognized as the 2024 Androscoggin County Teacher of the Year. Leah is the Vice President of the Lewiston Education Association, serves on the Maine Profess... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
Alfond 208

Teacher Leadership, General

11:00am EDT

Leading Through Connection: From Classroom to Community Impact

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT

Alfond 229

This interactive session explores how educators can lead through connection, embodiment, and student voice. Participants will experience practical strategies that build trust and belonging while learning how to extend their impact beyond the classroom through student-led, community-connected initiatives and innovative, relationship-centered practices

Speakers

Britney Salley-Gero

Kristy McNaughton

High School Teacher, Gardiner High School

Kristy McNaughton is an educator with over 20 years of experience teaching personal finance through hands-on experiences. She is the creator of Yoga Fusion, a Gardiner High School elective that blends yoga, reflection, team-building, nature, and breathwork to help students connect... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00am - 12:15pm EDT
Alfond 229

Teacher Leadership, 9-12

12:15pm EDT

Lunch

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:15pm - 1:20pm EDT

Spann Student Commons

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:15pm - 1:20pm EDT
Spann Student Commons

meal

1:30pm EDT

Circle Up Everyone! Using Whole School Read Alouds to Foster Equity and Belonging

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

In this session, participants will explore the use of picture books as monthly, schoolwide read-alouds to promote equity and a sense of belonging. They will engage in an interactive read-aloud and discussion, review potential titles, and develop plans for implementing this practice effectively within their school communities.

Speakers

Gigi McAllister

K-5 Library Media Specialist, Village Elementary School, Gorham

Gigi McAllister is an educator with over 30 years of experience and currently serves as the K–5 library-media specialist at Village Elementary School in Gorham. She is a National Board Certified Teacher who holds a master’s degree and Certificate of Advanced Study in literacy... Read More →

Jennifer Baker

Interim Assistant Principal, Village Elementary School, Gorham

Jennifer brings a diverse background supporting individuals across educational and clinical settings. She began her leadership journey as a ski and swim coach, later integrating outdoor learning into counseling practice. An advocate for alternative learners, she holds degrees in psychology... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

Equity, PK-5

1:30pm EDT

SEL + Life & Career Readiness: Integrating Heart & Mind for Meaningful Learning

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

Alfond 227

This workshop explores how Social Emotional Learning (SEL) aligns with Life & Career Readiness standards to support the whole student. Participants engage in interactive activities to design meaningful, equitable learning experiences that build self-awareness, collaboration, and decision-making skills. Educators leave with practical strategies to embed SEL into everyday instruction, fostering inclusive classrooms and preparing students for success beyond high school.

Speakers

Jennifer Dumont

JMG (Jobs for Maine Graduates), Windham High School

Jennifer Dumont is a JMG Specialist at Windham High School with over a decade of experience supporting students in developing the skills needed for success in school, career, and life. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing and Literature from Gordon College and a master’s... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Alfond 227

Equity, 9-12

1:30pm EDT

Use Your Voice and Make a Difference

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

Ayotte 103

The question is not “How can you, one person, make a difference?” The question is “What kind of difference do you want to make?” Learn about Americans Who Tell the Truth education resources and be inspired to guide students to use their voices and become change-makers.

Speakers

Samantha Maheu

Connie Carter

Caitlin Hutt

Social Studies Teacher, Troy Howard Middle School

Caitlin Hutt has taught English/language arts and social studies in Maine for almost two decades. She currently teaches at Troy Howard Middle School in Belfast, Maine. Her areas of expertise include planning projects that empower students, leading robust advisory sessions, and connecting... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Ayotte 103

Equity, 3-12

1:30pm EDT

When Something Goes Wrong: Restorative Responses to Bias and Harm

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

Alfond 209

Even in caring, inclusive spaces, mistakes happen—especially when addressing issues of bias, identity, or inequity. What matters most is how we respond. This session offers practical, compassionate strategies for repairing harm and rebuilding trust after missteps. Participants will explore the difference between intent and impact, learn the language of calling in/on, and practice restorative approaches to apology and accountability.

Speakers

Stephanie Hendrix

Humanities Academy Coordinator, Bangor High School

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Alfond 209

Equity, General

1:30pm EDT

Is Excess Screentime an Adversity-Like Event for Youth? Exploring the Implications for the Classroom and Beyond

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

Alfond 136

Join this session to explore whether excessive screen time may function as an adversity-like experience for youth. Drawing on emerging research linking screen exposure with attention, emotional regulation, and brain development, we'll examine parallels with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Educators will consider implications for classroom practice, student well-being, and developmentally appropriate technology use in schools and homes.

Speakers

Katie Rybakova

Chair and Associate Professor, Lunder School of Education, Thomas College

Katie Rybakova serves as the chair and an associate professor at Thomas College Lunder School of Education as well as the Executive Director of the Maine Association for Middle Level Education organization and Assistant Director of the Central Maine Education Consortium.

Dr. Heather Batchelor

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Alfond 136

Instruction, General

1:30pm EDT

Let Students Talk: Making Math Make Sense

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

Alfond 228

Have you ever wanted to encourage more student dialogue in your math class but feel trapped by scripted curriculum resources or struggle to come up with ideas of how to do so? This session will share strategies that can be implemented in any middle school classroom to increase student communication and collaboration!

Speakers

Lindsay Mahoney

7th/8th Grade Math, Messalonskee Middle School, RSU18

Lindsay Mahoney teaches 7th and 8th grade math at Messalonskee Middle School. She is the 2020 Kennebec County teacher of the year, on the Board of Directors for the Maine Association for Middle Level Education, and the Co-Director of the Kennebec Math League.

Hope Herrick

7th/8th Grade Math, Messalonskee Middle School, RSU18

Hope Herrick teaches 7th and 8th grade math at Messalonskee Middle School. She is the Co-Director of the Kennebec Math League.

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Alfond 228

Instruction, 6-8

1:30pm EDT

Nature Based Learning Across the Curriculum

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

Ayotte 104

If you are excited about nature based learning and are looking for ways to integrate it into your teaching practice, come to this session and gather inspiration from Becky Hallowell. This session will offer suggestions for using nature for teaching everything from grammar to renewable energy.

Speakers

Becky Hallowell

Grade 4 Teacher, Wiscasset Elementary School

Becky Hallowell teaches fourth-grade students at Wiscasset Elementary School. She is the 2024 Lincoln County Teacher of the Year and the 2025 Maine Teacher of the Year. Hallowell embraces a pedagogy that honors nature and place-based learning, establishing connections between students... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT
Ayotte 104

Instruction, PK-5

1:30pm EDT

The Power of Choice

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm EDT

Alfond 208

This session explores the power of student choice as a driver of engagement and ownership in learning. Participants will see practical examples from my classroom, including choice-based projects and strategies that elevate student voice, and leave with adaptable ideas they can implement to foster autonomy, motivation, and deeper learning in their own classrooms.

Speakers