VATLL Annual Conference

Learning is deepest when learners actively construct meaning through thinking, questioning, and academic discourse. This interactive session explores how purposeful questioning, structured discourse routines, and the 5E Learning Cycle (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate) create learner-centered experiences that promote critical thinking, collaboration, and conceptual understanding. Through modeling, analysis, and collaborative design, participants will examine high-quality learner discourse in action and leave with practical strategies to amplify learner voice and foster meaningful, sense-making conversations across diverse learning environments.

In today's schools, resilience isn't about working harder—it's about working from a stronger foundation. Discover the hidden habits that help exceptional educators stay calm, connected, and energized even in the face of constant change. Grounded in neuroscience, positive psychology, and human motivation, this interactive session will equip you with practical strategies to build resilience, cultivate joy, and create lasting impact for yourself and those you serve.

A targeted Tier 2 model for sixth‑grade success shows how sequencing executive functioning, academic habits, and self‑regulation supports can reduce failing grades and discipline referrals. Participants will learn a practical, replicable small‑group structure grounded in improvement science and walk away with concrete routines, PDSA‑aligned tools, and strategies for strengthening MTSS implementation through integrated supports.

In many cases, students with disabilities are capable of mastering grade-level standards, but barriers prevent them from showing it. This interactive session introduces the Access Before Assessment framework, demonstrating how accommodations provide immediate access while Specially Designed Instruction builds skills, confidence, and independence. Designed for teachers, specialists, and administrators, participants will explore practical strategies across content areas, strengthen classroom consistency, preserve rigor, and leave with actionable approaches for improving access, engagement, achievement, and state assessment performance for students with disabilities.

You follow the discipline process, assign consequences, and document the incident—yet the behavior returns, often because students no longer view consequences as meaningful. This interactive session introduces the Effective vs. Ineffective Behavior framework, an evidence-informed approach to disrupting cycles of discipline. Grounded in PBIS, restorative practices, feedback theory, and relationship-centered classroom management, participants will examine the function of behavior, distinguish accountability from punishment, practice reflective questioning, teach effective alternatives, preserve instructional access, strengthen student dignity, and promote lasting behavioral growth.

Leading change is one thing. Sustaining it is another. In this interactive session, participants will explore the S.T.E.P.S. Leadership Framework, a practical approach for moving initiatives from implementation to long-term impact. Through research-based strategies and collaborative activities, leaders will learn how to build capacity, strengthen systems, and create structures that support lasting change. Participants will leave with actionable tools and a personalized plan for implementation.