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VATLL Annual Conference
Venue: Tidewater A clear filter
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Thursday, December 3
 

8:15am EST

Designing Coaching for Schools Designed to Innovate
Thursday December 3, 2026 8:15am - 9:25am EST
Lab Schools require coaching models that go beyond traditional instructional coaching cycles. Learn how Smith Tech School of Computer Science, Innovation, & Design, in partnership with Old Dominion University, designed, piloted, and refined an innovative coaching framework that integrates inquiry, computational thinking, design thinking, computer science, and interdisciplinary instruction. Participants will explore implementation lessons, coaching resources, and strategies for building educator capacity through sustainable coaching systems.
Speakers
avatar for Ms. Bethani Lecher

Ms. Bethani Lecher

Instructional Coach for CS Integration/ Middle School Educator, Old Dominion University/Smith Tech School of Computer Science, Innovation, & Design (Chesapeake Public Schools-ODU Lab School)
Ms. Bethani Lecher is a middle school English teacher and computer science integration coach who designs interdisciplinary project-based learning experiences that merge literacy, science, and social studies through computational thinking and computer science. She supports educators... Read More →
avatar for Lisa Allen Steffian, Ph.D.

Lisa Allen Steffian, Ph.D.

Education Specialist, Old Dominion University (The Center for Educational Partnerships, Darden College of Education)
Dr. Steffian is a professional learning and education program leader with extensive experience supporting K–12 educators through professional learning, instructional design, coaching, and curriculum development. For the past two years, she has worked with the ODU–CEIO Lab School... Read More →
Thursday December 3, 2026 8:15am - 9:25am EST
Tidewater A

9:45am EST

From Compliance to Connection: What a State Trooper Taught Me About School Leadership
Thursday December 3, 2026 9:45am - 10:55am EST
What can school leaders learn from a former Virginia State Trooper? This engaging session explores five practical leadership lessons that help build trust, strengthen relationships, and navigate difficult conversations. Through real-world examples and interactive discussion, participants will learn strategies for de-escalation, understanding behavior, fostering consistency, and leading through connection rather than compliance. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to improve school culture and support students, staff, and families.
Speakers
avatar for Michael Perry

Michael Perry

Principal, Waynesboro Public Schools
Michael Perry serves as principal of Berkeley Glenn Elementary School in Waynesboro, Virginia. A former Virginia State Trooper turned educator, Michael brings a unique perspective on leadership, trust-building, and human behavior. His experiences in both law enforcement and education... Read More →
Thursday December 3, 2026 9:45am - 10:55am EST
Tidewater A
 
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