Every Teacher A Leader Summit 2026: Full Schedule

11:00am EDT

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

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

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

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

9:00am EDT

Yes, Really! Small Tweaks that Boost Engagement for All Learners

Friday July 31, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT

Alfond 227

Everyone engages more when they are interested and excited, and as a result, learning increases! The concept is easy, but designing instruction to optimize student engagement can sometimes feel overwhelming or inauthentic. This session will introduce you to opportunities to respond and why they are important for engagement, and help you realize that specific praise also increases student engagement. Participants will learn two types of responding, with specific examples, synthesize their learning through peer discussions, and observe classroom teachers implementing these techniques.

Speakers

Anne Marie Jordan

Literacy Specialist/ESEA Federal Grant Coordinator, Ridge View Community School, RSU 46

Anne Marie C. Jordan, Ph.D., is an experienced educator supporting teachers and students across Maine for 35 years. In MSAD #46, she is a Literacy Specialist and Federal Grant Coordinator, as well as a former classroom teacher, principal, and interventionist. She leads district initiatives... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT
Alfond 227

Instruction, General