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.
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
“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.
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!
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).
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.
Participants will engage in an overview of the power of utilizing restorative practices to build relationships with students, staff, and administration. Then, participants will engage in community building circles.
Emily Albee is a social studies teacher working with grades 9-12 at Hampden Academy, part of RSU 22, in Hampden, Maine. She was named the 2022 Penobscot County Teacher of the Year and a state finalist for 2023 Maine Teacher of the Year. Emily is a National Board Certified Teacher... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT Ayotte 103
In this session, you will learn why classroom management is important, how to build culture and community, learn how to teach expectations and routines and gain tips for behavior management and work completion.
Kindergarten Teacher, Spruce Mountain Primary School
My name is Tanya Perreault and I am a kindergarten teacher at Spruce Mountain Primary School in Livermore, Maine. I have worked in education for 27 years. I have been a kindergarten teacher for the past 16 years. In 2023, I was named the Androscoggin County Teacher of the Year. I... Read More →
Friday July 31, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am EDT Alfond 209
about My name is Tanya Perreault and I am a kindergarten teacher at Spruce Mountain Primary School in Livermore, Maine. I have worked in education for 27 years. I have been a kindergarten teacher for the past 16 years. In 2023, I was named the Androscoggin County Teacher of the Year. I love working in a primary school where I can help build the foundation for children to love school and make an impact in their education. In my 27 years of education, I have also worked as an educational technician in special education. I also worked as a daycare and preschool director. Through my experience, I have learned many ways to manage classrooms. I have found it imperative to learn and collaborate with other teachers. My passion for teaching shows each day with my interactions with my students and colleagues.
