VATLL Annual Conference: Full Schedule

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8:15am EST

Every Day Counts: School-Wide Interventions to Reduce Chronic Absenteeism

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:15am - 9:25am EST

Chronic absenteeism requires an intentional, school-wide response. Drawing on research and hands-on school leadership experience, this session explores targeted strategies to engage students and families. Participants will learn how to leverage data-driven interventions and nurture a proactive culture of attendance. You will walk away with actionable tools to combat absenteeism, strengthen family partnerships, and ensure every student comes to school ready to learn.

Speakers

Dr. Amanda Harper

Principal, Louisa County Public Schools

Dr. Amanda Harper serves as the Principal of Louisa County Middle School, where she is dedicated to nurturing a positive and high-performing learning environment. Recognizing that academic success begins with daily attendance, Amanda has focused heavily on tackling one of modern education's... Read More →

Thursday December 3, 2026 8:15am - 9:25am EST
Piedmont C

common

9:45am EST

Turn Up the Volume: Leveraging Student Voice to Elevate Instructional Clarity

Thursday December 3, 2026 9:45am - 10:55am EST

Piedmont C

Discover how student voice can become a powerful driver of instructional clarity and engagement, and create more equitable learning experiences. Through authentic student survey data, collaborative learning, and AVID-aligned strategies, participants will explore practical ways to turn student feedback into meaningful improvements in teaching and learning. Attendees will leave with actionable tools, a continuous improvement process, and a plan for creating consistent instructional practices that better support every student's success.

Speakers

Dana W. Cho, Ph.D.

Assistant Principal, Virginia Beach City Public Schools

I am a student-centered leader committed to creating school communities where every learner feels known, valued, and empowered to succeed. My work in instructional leadership, master scheduling, MTSS, PBIS, AVID, and special education/504 systems is grounded in a belief that strong... Read More →

Veronica Ruiz

AVID Teacher, Virginia Beach City Public Schools

Educator who is passionate about creating equitable learning opportunities and empowering students to achieve academic success. I am committed to building strong instructional systems that foster organization, critical thinking, and college and career readiness while supporting both... Read More →

Thursday December 3, 2026 9:45am - 10:55am EST
Piedmont C