PIR Summer Institute 2026-2027

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Judith Centa
Location: Room 204
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr 2-3, Special Educators PK-12, Interventionists PK-12

Participants will understand how cognitive load impacts learning and instructional decision-making and design a targeted 5-minute syllable instructional routine aligned to assessment data and mastery goals. 

• Cognitive Load Theory and the impact on learning
• Overview: triangulating classroom Alphabetic principle (syllables) assessment data using mCLASS DIBELS assessment data and classroom mastery assessments
• Learn the components of a 5-minute instructional routine and begin an instructional plan
• Observe a model of the 5-minute instructional alphabetic principle (syllables) routine
   

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Karla Miller
Location: Room 206
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-6

Strengthen your Morning Meeting practices using Responsive Classroom protocols in this focused two-hour professional learning session. Whether you are new to Morning Meeting or looking for a thoughtful refresher, this session will provide practical guidance and renewed clarity.

• Four core components of Morning Meeting
• Strategies to increase consistency, student voice, engagement, and alignment with academic and behavioral expectations. 
• Modeling and classroom application
• Ready-to-use ideas that can be implemented immediately

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Lexia Trainer
Location: Room 212
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-5

Participants will explore the key components of the Adaptive Blended Learning model while examining their current Core5 implementation. Using myLexia data, educators will identify student groupings, determine specific instructional needs, and connect those needs to targeted Lexia instructional resources to strengthen blended learning in their classrooms.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Carnegie Learning
Location: Room 207
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr 3-12

Grammar can be the bane of the English teacher's existence. This session will review specific ways you can teach language standards to simultaneously support comprehension of a text and grammar instruction. You will leave this session with strategies to integrate grammar instruction that will improve how your students read and write. 

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Nicole Heintzelman, Dannelle Dyke
Location: Room 211
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-12

Supporting staff in understanding what is a Tier 1 support, Tier 2 support, and Tier 3 support might look like in the general education setting. We will work through different strategies and tools to support students and determining when it is at the level of seeking higher level supports. This session will be done in a PowerPoint format, that will also allow for some interaction tracking and support in EdHub to look at creating a CLP for a student, how to track parent notifications, and when a teacher can say it is a "failed intervention" vs. successful intervention for the student.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: McGraw Hill Trainer
Location: Room 209
Materials needed: n/a
Target audience: Educators K-6

This two-hour refresher session is designed to support educators in effectively implementing the Inspire Science curriculum with renewed clarity and purpose. Participants will revisit the core instructional components of the program, including the 5E instructional model, student-centered inquiry, and the integration of literacy within science instruction.

During the session, educators will explore key features of the curriculum, examine instructional routines, and reflect on best practices for engaging students in meaningful scientific thinking. Time will be dedicated to navigating both print and digital resources, identifying opportunities for differentiation, and strengthening alignment between daily instruction and assessment.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Kurt Shepherd
Location: Room 202
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

One of the greatest features of Amplify Desmos Math and the free Amplify Classroom (formerly known as Desmos Classroom) platform is the ability to customize existing lessons or even create new ones on your own. Participants will learn how to customize an existing lesson to fit the needs of their classroom, how the activity editing screen works and each feature in the screen, how to copy screens from another activity into your own, and how to start an activity from scratch. There will be time for teachers to take what they have learned and either customize an activity or create their own. Please bring the materials you would need to do either of these things.

• Discuss how the “Desmos Design Principles" how we approach instruction and lesson design
• See different tools available and uses for each one.
• How to add a tool to an activity.
• Integrating pre-made starter screens, check-in screens, exit tickets, and templates in your activity.
• Integrating creations from Desmos Graphing Calculator and Geometry tools.
• Integrating creations from Polypad.
• Adding embedded calculators to activities.
• Using Computational Layer to:
  • Have features that interact with each other.
  • To give student feedback on if answers are correct.
  • To give teacher feedback on if answers are correct.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Jon Davis
Location: Room 319
Materials needed: n/a
Target audience: Everyone

Forensic Science Basics - Fingerprints, Blood, and Forgeries:
Have you ever wanted to know how some of the forensic techniques you see on TV work? If you answered yes, this course is for you. This course provides a basic overview of fingerprinting, blood spatter/testing, and handwriting/forgery analysis. This is the same course as in June 2023, 2024, and 2025. The class is designed for hands-on activities and scientific thinking. If you have taken this course in the past, please do not sign up for this PIR and let others in.

• Basics in fingerprinting
• Basics in blood spatter
• ABO Blood Typing
• Handwriting Analysis

Prerequisite: Enrolled in LETRS course
Presenter: LETRS Trainer
Location: Room 201
Materials needed: LETRS Volume 1 manual
Target audience: Enrolled Educators

Participants will explore key concepts from LETRS Volume 1 that build the foundation of the science of reading, including the structure of language, phonology, phonics, and word recognition. Educators will reflect on how these concepts inform effective early literacy instruction and identify ways to strengthen foundational reading practices in their classrooms.

Prerequisite: Enrolled in LETRS course, Completion of Volume 1
Presenter: LETRS Trainer
Location: Library
Materials needed: LETRS Volume 2 manual
Target audience: Enrolled Educators

Participants will examine key concepts from LETRS Volume 2, focusing on vocabulary, language comprehension, reading comprehension, and writing. Educators will connect research-based practices to classroom instruction and identify strategies to support students in developing deeper understanding and stronger literacy skills.

Prerequisite: Current MANDT Certification within the last year
Presenter: Jennifer Lambert, Jessica Carranza, Erin Bucher, Ryan Beam
Location: Room 506/Old Wrestling Room
Materials needed: n/a
Target audience: Participants who need to recertify MANDT

Please remember you are responsible for knowing when your certification expires. If you attend a recertification and are not currently certified, you will need to take an initial certification and will NOT be certified. The MANDT System will not allow us to certify you if you are expired. If you are unsure when you expire, please see the bottom of your most current certificate or if you cannot find your certificate, contact one of the trainers.

In addition to signing up in PIR you will also need to fill out the registration questions for the MANDT Team MANDT FORM link.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Judith Centa
Location: Room 204
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-2, Special Educators PK-12, Interventionists PK-12

Participants will understand how cognitive load impacts learning and instructional decision-making and design a targeted 5-minute sounds and blending instructional routine aligned to assessment data and mastery goals.

• Cognitive Load Theory and the impact on learning
• Overview: triangulating classroom Alphabetic principle (sounds and blending) assessment data using mCLASS DIBELS assessment data and classroom mastery assessments
• Learn the components of a 5-minute instructional routine and begin an instructional plan
• Observe a model of the 5-minute instructional alphabetic principle (sounds and blending) routine
   

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Karla Miller
Location: Room 206
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-6

Strengthen your Morning Meeting practices using Responsive Classroom protocols in this focused two-hour professional learning session. Whether you are new to Morning Meeting or looking for a thoughtful refresher, this session will provide practical guidance and renewed clarity.

• Four core components of Morning Meeting
• Strategies to increase consistency, student voice, engagement, and alignment with academic and behavioral expectations. 
• Modeling and classroom application
• Ready-to-use ideas that can be implemented immediately

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Carnegie Learning
Location: Room 207
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr 3-12

Come solve a mystery! You don't need to be a famous sleuth to follow the clues and piece together how to use the elements of the mystery genre to create compelling lessons for your students and engage them in inquiry, collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Nicole Heintzelman, Dannelle Dyke
Location: Room 211
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

Supporting staff in understanding what is a Tier 1 support, Tier 2 support, and Tier 3 support might look like in the general education setting. We will work through different strategies and tools to support students and determining when it is at the level of seeking higher level supports. This session will be done in a PowerPoint format, that will also allow for some interaction tracking and support in EdHub to look at creating a CLP for a student, how to track parent notifications, and when a teacher can say it is a "failed intervention" vs. successful intervention for the student.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Lexia Trainer
Location: Room 212
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-5

Participants will explore how Core5 engages students and supports intrinsic motivation while learning how to use myLexia reports to identify instructional priorities. Educators will generate strategies to increase student engagement and develop a plan for using progress monitoring data to guide instructional next steps and sustain motivation over time.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: McGraw Hill Trainer
Location: Room 209
Materials needed: n/a
Target audience: Educators K-6

This two-hour refresher session is designed to support educators in effectively implementing the Inspire Science curriculum with renewed clarity and purpose. Participants will revisit the core instructional components of the program, including the 5E instructional model, student-centered inquiry, and the integration of literacy within science instruction.

During the session, educators will explore key features of the curriculum, examine instructional routines, and reflect on best practices for engaging students in meaningful scientific thinking. Time will be dedicated to navigating both print and digital resources, identifying opportunities for differentiation, and strengthening alignment between daily instruction and assessment.

Check out the variety of food trucks in the student parking lot! 

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Judith Centa
Location: Room 204
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-1, Special Educators PK-12, Interventionists PK-12

Participants will understand how cognitive load impacts learning and instructional decision-making, and design a focused 5-minute phonemic awareness routine aligned to assessment data and mastery goals.

• Cognitive Load Theory and the impact on learning
• Overview: triangulating classroom Phonemic Awareness assessment data using mCLASS DIBELS assessment data and classroom mastery assessments
• Learn the components of a 5-minute instructional routine and begin an instructional plan
• Observe a model of the 5-minute instructional phonemic awareness routine
   

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Carnegie Learning
Location: Room 207
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr 6-12

Believe it or not, the so-called “craziness” of the teen years isn’t so crazy after all! Recent brain science reveals that adolescence is a dynamic period of learning, during which teens build social and executive function capacities essential for a productive adult life. Research also highlights the significant impact of pandemic isolation on social development—an area critical to adolescent maturity. This session will provide insight into why adolescent students make the choices they do and explore how interactive, thoughtful literacy instruction can support both academic achievement and healthy development.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Lance Boyd
Location: Room 211
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This session will be focused around helping teachers create, build and model behavior plans for Tier 2 and Tier 3 student level behavior. We will discuss creation of behavior plans in simple and easy to use terms and how teachers can modify and adjust plans as data is collected along the way.

• What is Behavior?
• What resources are out there to support writing a behavior plan?
• What is in a behavior plan and how can I measure what I need to measure?
• Behavior plan format and entering in EdHub
• Data Collection and Review of District and Building Resources
• RCD, Character Strong, and EDHub will be utilized

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Lexia Trainer
Location: Room 212
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr 6, Special Educators 6-12, Interventionists 6-12

Participants will review Lexia’s adaptive blended learning model and implementation best practices while exploring how myLexia reports support effective progress monitoring. Educators will analyze student and group-level data to identify instructional priorities and develop a plan for using myLexia data to guide ongoing instructional decisions and next steps.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: McGraw Hill Trainer
Location: Room 209
Materials needed: n/a
Target audience: Educators K-6

This two-hour refresher session is designed to support educators in effectively implementing the Inspire Science curriculum with renewed clarity and purpose. Participants will revisit the core instructional components of the program, including the 5E instructional model, student-centered inquiry, and the integration of literacy within science instruction.

During the session, educators will explore key features of the curriculum, examine instructional routines, and reflect on best practices for engaging students in meaningful scientific thinking. Time will be dedicated to navigating both print and digital resources, identifying opportunities for differentiation, and strengthening alignment between daily instruction and assessment.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Brian Miller, Jessica Cape, Sam Brandt
Location: Library
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This PIR is designed to empower teachers to leverage ChatGPT as a tool to increase instructional efficiency while intentionally preparing students for a future shaped by artificial intelligence. Rather than viewing AI as a disruption, this session positions it as a strategic support for strong teaching and deeper student learning.

Additionally, this session supports the GFPS Profile of a Learner, including the development of Critical Thinkers, Strong Communicators, Problem Solvers, individuals with Work Ethic, and students who demonstrate Integrity. Participants will explore how to explicitly teach students to evaluate AI outputs, recognize bias, refine prompts, and use AI ethically and responsibly.

• Use ChatGPT to save planning time and strengthen instruction.
• Integrate AI literacy into classroom expectations and assignments.
• Align AI use with district goals for student growth and learner traits.
• Model responsible, ethical, and critical AI engagement for students.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Samantha Benson
Location: Room 201
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This PIR is to help teachers incorporate the use of mini Spheros into their everyday lessons or activities. This creates student engagement to an all time high while challenging students in a fun and inventive way, not to mention the cross curricular aspect. Participants will learn how to navigate the Sphero website to locate lessons that will enhance what they are currently teaching.

• Basics of navigating the Sphero website
• Basics of coding a mini bot
• How to tie lessons from the website into their lessons
• Brainstorm how to use manipulatives to create your own lessons to use with the bots, such as traveling the US capitals or learning the water cycle

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amanda Tramill, Amanda Blair
Location: Room 204
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This course is designed to equip educators—especially beginning teachers—with practical, trauma-informed strategies for creating safe, structured, and inclusive learning environments. Emphasis is placed on strong beginning-of-the-year procedures, proactive classroom systems, and relationship-based management practices that support all learners, including students with 504 plans and IEPs.

Participants will explore how to establish clear expectations, routines, and transitions that prevent behavioral challenges before they start, while also learning how to confidently “handle the class” when things don’t go as planned. The course addresses how to maintain situational awareness—often described as having “eyes in the back of your head”—and how to respond calmly and effectively to escalating behaviors.

Educators will learn de-escalation strategies, co-regulation techniques, and self-regulation practices for staff working with students experiencing behavioral or emotional distress. The course emphasizes the adult’s role in maintaining regulation, modeling calm responses, and preventing escalation through tone, body language, and intentional decision-making.

Participants will also learn what to do when strategies are not effective, including how to safely clear a classroom, follow crisis protocols, and restore the learning environment afterward.

Through real-life scenarios, case studies, and reflective practice, participants will leave with tools they can use immediately—because classroom management isn’t about control, it’s about connection, consistency, and regulating yourself first so students can follow.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amplify Desmos Trainer
Location: Room 207
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

Prepare to effectively teach Amplify Math lessons by engaging in collaborative backward mapping with experts. Work alongside our facilitators to understand how to target key concepts and make effective instructional decisions across a unit, and leave with a completed unit plan for your class.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: McGraw Hill
Location: Room 202
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: English Educators Gr 7-12

This combined session offers a comprehensive look at how to maximize the power of StudySync to support effective literacy instruction from planning to implementation. Participants will explore a range of built-in writing opportunities, including Extended Writing Projects, Grammar Skill Lessons, Daily Blasts, and Peer Review, with a focus on how these tools can strengthen student voice and writing development across content areas.

In addition, the session will highlight practical strategies for successful classroom implementation, including station rotation, blended learning approaches, and the use of the Strategies Glossary. Teachers will also examine what an effective close reading routine model looks like in action and how it can deepen student comprehension and engagement.

Finally, participants will learn how to design and build their own custom units using StudySync’s flexible tools. Through guided modeling, educators will explore the Custom Units Creator and library resources, empowering them to curate meaningful, standards-aligned learning experiences tailored to their students’ needs.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amplify Desmos Trainer
Location: Room 214
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

Learn how to leverage embedded differentiated supports in Amplify Math to ensure that all students can be successful. Walk away with a plan for supporting students in your classroom including multilingual/English learners (ML/ELs), students with disabilities, students who may need extra support, and advanced students.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Michelle Noriega, Katelyn Marski
Location: Room 204
Materials needed: none
Target Audience: Everyone

Attend this interactive workshop and learn how to leverage GFPS Foundation annual grants to deepen your students’ learning and your growth as an education professional. While mini grants are also available from the Foundation, the primary focus for this workshop will be the exploration of annual grant opportunities as it relates to your curriculum. This includes Learning Enhancement, Community Collaboration, and Immersive Professional Learning Grants.

• Understand annual grant offerings available for teachers
• Conduct a self-inventory to determine areas of curriculum that could be leveraged with a grant project
• Partner with fellow attendees to prompt idea generation and further develop ideas into actional plans
• Obtain insights from past grant recipients on how they connected their grant ideas to student learning
• Walk away with one fleshed out grant idea to submit for consideration

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Brian Miller, Jessica Cape, Sam Brandt
Location: Library
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This PIR is designed to empower teachers to leverage ChatGPT as a tool to increase instructional efficiency while intentionally preparing students for a future shaped by artificial intelligence. Rather than viewing AI as a disruption, this session positions it as a strategic support for strong teaching and deeper student learning.

Additionally, this session supports the GFPS Profile of a Learner, including the development of Critical Thinkers, Strong Communicators, Problem Solvers, individuals with Work Ethic, and students who demonstrate Integrity. Participants will explore how to explicitly teach students to evaluate AI outputs, recognize bias, refine prompts, and use AI ethically and responsibly.

• Use ChatGPT to save planning time and strengthen instruction.
• Integrate AI literacy into classroom expectations and assignments.
• Align AI use with district goals for student growth and learner traits.
• Model responsible, ethical, and critical AI engagement for students.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Rebekah Strausheim
Location: Room 206
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This session is designed to prepare teachers for creating a successful digital learning experience using the Chromebooks in the classroom. Participants will get to know the Chromebook and overview classroom procedures and best practices. They will participate in hands-on activities to enhance their working knowledge of Chromebooks. They will also explore how to utilize the Google Classroom (grades 2-12) and/or Clever (K-12) learning management systems.

• Build teacher confidence in navigating and using Chromebooks in the classroom
• Understand and apply classroom management strategies for device use
• Explore key functions of Google Classroom (2–12) and Clever (K–12)

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Miranda Murray
Location: Room 207
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This session explores the foundational structures and chemistry of the brain and their direct impact on student learning, behavior, attention, and motivation. Participants will gain a practical understanding of brain structure, stress response (the “lizard brain” and “wizard brain”), cognitive load, and key neurochemicals such as dopamine and cortisol. We will also examine emerging research that directly impacts student learning such as, mirror neurons and developmental considerations, and brain maturation.This session will not focus on theory alone, aiming to consistently connect neuroscience to daily classroom realities.

• Understand the basic structures and functions of the brain (including gray matter, white matter, executive function systems, and the stress response) and explain how they impact student learning and behavior.
• Identify how cognitive load affects working memory and instructional design, and apply strategies to reduce overload in daily lessons.
• Recognize the role of mirror neurons and reflect on how their own regulation and modeling influence student brain states.
• Commit to at least one actionable, brain-aligned instructional shift.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Irina Mills
Location: Room 209
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This professional development session is designed for teachers who have some experience working with English Learners but limited formal training in second language acquisition or EL instructional strategies. It builds foundational understanding while equipping educators with practical, classroom-ready tools they can implement immediately.

Participants will deepen their understanding of who English Learners are, how academic language develops, and how to provide meaningful scaffolds that maintain rigor rather than reduce expectations. Teachers will also explore how Lexia English supports structured language development and how it can be intentionally integrated into daily instruction.

Through hands-on learning and real classroom scenarios, educators will analyze student data, model effective instructional strategies, role-play student conferencing situations, and collaboratively design implementation plans tailored to their own classrooms. The session emphasizes active engagement, collaboration, and immediate application, ensuring that teachers leave with increased confidence and a clear, actionable plan for supporting English Learners.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Lyndsey Stulc, Andrea Thares
Location: Room 211
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This PIR is designed to empower teachers to identify target behaviors, implement Tier 1 and 2 behavior plans, and collect data to reflect the effectiveness of the intervention. The plan for this PIR is meant to equip teachers with strategies that encourage safety, manage student misbehaviors effectively, and incorporate positive reinforcement for target behaviors. Participants will learn how to implement classroom behavior plans in a way that encourages student responsibility and reteaching of desired behaviors. By the end of the PIR, participants will be equipped to identify target behaviors that may be unsafe or disrupting the classroom environment, select interventions for reteaching and minimizing behaviors, and next steps with students.

• Give teachers the confidence and power to implement student behavior plans.
• Explore evidence-based strategies for de-escalating behaviors, and positively reinforcing correct behavior.
• Provide multiple examples of behavior plans designed for various behaviors.
• Provide best practices for collecting and recording data to reflect effectiveness of intervention.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Lee Ruud, Tammy Pospisil
Location: Room 212
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-3

Are you noticing that you're having a hard time understanding some of what kids say because their speech has errors? Do you teach beginning reading? If so, please come to our class to learn more about integrating correct speech skills into your classroom phonemic awareness, phonics, and reading lessons.  You will learn: the developmental milestones of speech sounds, how to cue kids to help achieve correct articulation, and how to develop routines to practice, master, and transfer these skills during your phonemic awareness, phonics, or handwriting instruction.

• Develop an awareness of how sounds are articulated
• Develop and practice the correct articulation of sounds
• Discuss how these skills fit into the classroom instruction

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Judith Centa
Location: Room 213
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-3, Special Educators K-12, Interventionists K-12

Participants will examine how cognitive load theory influences student performance and apply a structured process for analyzing mCLASS DIBELS NWF and PSF data to identifyspecific learner needs. Participants will learn how to use data to plan whole-group, small-group, and differentiated instruction throughout the school day.

• Cognitive Load Theory and the impact on learning
• Learn a process for analyzing mCLASS DIBELS NWF and PSF data based on learner performance in the assessments
• Learn how to align targeted instruction based on data analysis to meet whole group classroom needs, create small groups, and to differentiate based on learner needs throughout the entire day
• Practice and apply skills of data analysis and aligning instruction based on learner needs

Prerequisite: Must be hired as a Jumpstart Summer School Teacher
Presenter: Charlene Ammons, Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick, Miranda Murray
Location: Room 201
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Jumpstart Summer School Teachers Only

This session is for teachers hired to teach the 2026 Jumpstart Summer School for incoming kindergarten through third grade students who qualified for the summer school session. Teachers will be trained on the provided curriculum materials, lesson plans, schedule, and routines and procedures.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Jon Davis
Location: Room 319
Materials needed: n/a
Target audience: Everyone

Forensic Science Basics - Fingerprints, Blood, and Forgeries:
Have you ever wanted to know how some of the forensic techniques you see on TV work? If you answered yes, this course is for you. This course provides a basic overview of fingerprinting, blood spatter/testing, and handwriting/forgery analysis. This is the same course as in June 2023, 2024, and 2025. The class is designed for hands-on activities and scientific thinking. If you have taken this course in the past, please do not sign up for this PIR and let others in.

• Basics in fingerprinting
• Basics in blood spatter
• ABO Blood Typing
• Handwriting Analysis

Prerequisite: Current MANDT Certification within the last year
Presenter: Jennifer Lambert, Jessica Carranza, Erin Bucher, Ryan Beam
Location: Room 506/Old Wrestling Room
Materials needed: n/a
Target audience: Participants who need to recertify MANDT

Please remember you are responsible for knowing when your certification expires. If you attend a recertification and are not currently certified, you will need to take an initial certification and will NOT be certified. The MANDT System will not allow us to certify you if you are expired. If you are unsure when you expire, please see the bottom of your most current certificate or if you cannot find your certificate, contact one of the trainers.

In addition to signing up in PIR you will also need to fill out the registration questions for the MANDT Team MANDT FORM link.

Check out the variety of food trucks in the student parking lot! 

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: McGraw Hill
Location: Room 202
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: English Educators 7-12

This combined session offers a comprehensive look at how to maximize the power of StudySync to support effective literacy instruction from planning to implementation. Participants will explore a range of built-in writing opportunities, including Extended Writing Projects, Grammar Skill Lessons, Daily Blasts, and Peer Review, with a focus on how these tools can strengthen student voice and writing development across content areas.

In addition, the session will highlight practical strategies for successful classroom implementation, including station rotation, blended learning approaches, and the use of the Strategies Glossary. Teachers will also examine what an effective close reading routine model looks like in action and how it can deepen student comprehension and engagement.

Finally, participants will learn how to design and build their own custom units using StudySync’s flexible tools. Through guided modeling, educators will explore the Custom Units Creator and library resources, empowering them to curate meaningful, standards-aligned learning experiences tailored to their students’ needs.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Kurt Shepherd
Location: Library
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators K-6

This is for people who want to become more proficient and comfortable using the Dashboard Controls in Amplify Desmos Math and the free version of Amplify Classroom (formerly Desmos Classroom). Participants will practice using the Dashboard features as well as instructional strategies to maximize student engagement and learning using the platform. Using the Teacher Dashboard for pacing instruction, formative assessment, sparking class discussion, differentiation, and more will be covered in this session. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice using all these features so that they are comfortable with them when they return to the classroom.

• Discuss how the “Desmos Design Principles” change how we approach instruction
• Understand how to use the Pace, Sync to Me, and Pause features to manage instruction
• Each view and its role in instruction, management, and assessment
• How to create and use Snapshots for sparking class discussion
• The use of the Sketch Everywhere feature during instruction
• The purpose and use of the Anonymize feature
• How each feature is used to change our instructional approach

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Craig Buscher
Location: Room 201
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-8

Description:
This 3 hour PIR will address characteristics of dyslexia and strategies and best practices for teaching students with dyslexia or other barriers to read. 

• Build a clear, shared understanding of dyslexia and related reading difficulties
• Strengthen instructional practice using evidence-based reading strategies
• Increase teacher capacity to close reading gaps

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Michelle Noriega, Katelyn Marski
Location: Room 204
Materials needed: none
Target Audience: Everyone

Attend this interactive workshop and learn how to leverage GFPS Foundation annual grants to deepen your students’ learning and your growth as an education professional. While mini grants are also available from the Foundation, the primary focus for this workshop will be the exploration of annual grant opportunities as it relates to your curriculum. This includes Learning Enhancement, Community Collaboration, and Immersive Professional Learning Grants.

• Understand annual grant offerings available for teachers
• Conduct a self-inventory to determine areas of curriculum that could be leveraged with a grant project
• Partner with fellow attendees to prompt idea generation and further develop ideas into actional plans
• Obtain insights from past grant recipients on how they connected their grant ideas to student learning
• Walk away with one fleshed out grant idea to submit for consideration

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amplify Desmos Trainer
Location: Room 214
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

Learn how to leverage embedded differentiated supports in Amplify Math to ensure that all students can be successful. Walk away with a plan for supporting students in your classroom including multilingual/English learners (ML/ELs), students with disabilities, students who may need extra support, and advanced students.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Rebekah Strausheim
Location: Room 206
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This session is designed to prepare teachers for creating a successful digital learning experience using the Promethean panels (interactive TV) in the classroom. Participants will get to know the Promethean panel and overview classroom procedures and best practices. Participants will participate in hands-on activities to enhance their knowledge of using their Promethean panel.

• Understand the features and functions of the Promethean panel and how it supports instructional goals.
• Explore best practices and classroom procedures for using interactive displays effectively.
• Engage in hands-on activities to build confidence with Promethean tools and software.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick
Location: Room 207
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

Student engagement is the foundation of learning. When students are curious, thinking critically, creating, and actively participating, achievement and classroom culture both improve.

This professional learning session will equip teachers with high-impact, practical strategies to:

• Increase student curiosity and motivation
• Deepen critical and creative thinking
• Responsibly integrate AI as a learning enhancer
• Capture and sustain student attention
• Use structured grouping and feedback tools
• Implement choice frameworks that build ownership

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Rachel Cutler, Jennifer Martyn
Location: Room 209
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

Educators will analyze current levels of community engagement within their own classrooms and schools, explore successful GFPS and regional examples, and identify concrete strategies for involving families, local organizations, and community members in ways that align with curriculum and student needs. The emphasis stays firmly on actions teachers can realistically implement.

• Why Community Involvement Matters for Learning
• Research-based overview of how community partnerships impact student achievement and engagement
• Small-group discussion connecting research to classroom realities
• Examination of common barriers and misconceptions
• From Idea to Action: Practical Models and Examples 
• Discussion of how to adapt strategies for different student populations

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Lyndsey Stulc, Charlene Ammons
Location: Room 211
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

Getting practical with using the Responsibility Centered Discipline (RCD) approach takes time, effort, and persistence. As a teacher leader in your building, this course will highlight how to align your efforts as a staff around school universals, practice Give ‘Em 5 conversations using school universals, identify and navigate the different intensity levels during Give ‘Em 5 conversations, examine the exits off the Roadmap to Responsibility, identify the teacher’s role in opening and closing those exits, and practice “kid-reading” skills to determine the type of student and category of benefit that student may be seeking when trying to use the exit. This session will have many coaching tips on making RCD an effective approach to helping students take ownership of their choices.

• Establish Consistent School Expectations: Align staff efforts around shared school expectations and practice effective Give ‘Em 5 conversations.
• Develop Behavior Management Skills: Learn to identify different behavior intensity levels, navigate student exits on the Roadmap to Responsibility, and guide students toward accountability.
• Enhance Student Understanding: Improve “kid-reading” skills to recognize student needs and motivations, making RCD a more effective approach for fostering responsible decision-making.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Lee Ruud
Location: Room 212
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-2

Phonological awareness is key to reading success. This hands-on class will help you learn and practice the hand signals and curriculum parts for the Heggerty Phonemic Awareness Program. It will help you to ensure your students have a strong base for reading. The course will also provide practice in initial assessment and progress monitoring

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Judith Centa
Location: Room 213
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-3, Special Educators K-12, Interventionists K-12

Participants will examine how cognitive load theory influences student performance and apply a structured process for analyzing mCLASS DIBELS NWF and PSF data to identifyspecific learner needs. Participants will learn how to use data to plan whole-group, small-group, and differentiated instruction throughout the school day.

• Cognitive Load Theory and the impact on learning
• Learn a process for analyzing mCLASS DIBELS NWF and PSF data based on learner performance in the assessments
• Learn how to align targeted instruction based on data analysis to meet whole group classroom needs, create small groups, and to differentiate based on learner needs throughout the entire day
• Practice and apply skills of data analysis and aligning instruction based on learner needs

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Craig Buscher
Location: Room 201
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-8

Description:
This 3 hour PIR will address characteristics of dyslexia and strategies and best practices for teaching students with dyslexia or other barriers to read. 

• Build a clear, shared understanding of dyslexia and related reading difficulties
• Strengthen instructional practice using evidence-based reading strategies
• Increase teacher capacity to close reading gaps

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Kurt Shepherd
Location: Library
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators K-6

This is for people who feel proficient and comfortable using the Dashboard Controls in Amplify Desmos Math and the free version of Amplify Classroom (formerly Desmos Classroom) and want to learn more. Participants will dive into ways to combine different Dashboard Features to do more with lessons. Time will be spent showing how to combine snapshots from different screens, use the Sketch Everywhere feature in lessons, and how to use pacing and sync controls with the Anonymize feature to provide more student feedback. Time will be spent on how the “Desmos Design Principles" change how we approach instruction. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice using all these features so that they are comfortable with them when they return to the classroom.

• Discuss how the “Desmos Design Principles” change how we approach instruction.
• Understand how to switch between the Pace, Pause, Sync to Me, and Anonymize features to manage instruction and improve feedback.
• Each view and its role in instruction, management, assessment, and student feedback.
• How to create and use Snapshots from different screens for sparking class discussion.
• The use of the Sketch Everywhere feature during instruction.
• How each feature is used to change our instructional approach.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick
Location: Room 207
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

Cortisol, Conflict, and the Keys to Calm: In today’s classrooms, stress and conflict can quickly impact learning, behavior, and relationships. This professional development session explores the powerful role cortisol plays in student behavior and how understanding the brain’s stress response can transform the way we respond to challenges.Participants will gain practical strategies to de-escalate conflict, regulate emotions, and create calm, connected learning environments. Together, we will unlock the potential of teaching students the Five Keys to Character and helping them become:

• Capable problem-solvers
• Confident learners
• Constructive thinkers
• Connected classmates
• Contributing members of their community

Through reflection, real-world scenarios, and ready-to-use classroom strategies, educators will leave with a deeper understanding of student behavior, tools to reduce conflict, and a clear framework for teaching calm, character, and connection every day. We will intentionally align this work with the core Social-Emotional Learning competencies:

• Self-Awareness
• Self-Management
• Social Awareness
• Relationship Skills
• Responsible Decision-Making

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Bryanna Carr, Courtney Wolery
Location: Room 204
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr 3-5

This PIR is designed to empower teachers in grades 3-5 to use Science of Reading best practices to effectively facilitate student reading comprehension. Educators will learn how to effectively plan for narrative and informational text comprehension by identifying tasks to complete with students before, during, and after text reading. By the end of the PIR, participants will be able to use Science of Reading best practices to plan for student reading comprehension. 

• Discuss/Define Scarborough's Reading Rope and the Simple View of Reading
• Define reading comprehension
• Present LETRS Comprehension Checklist with a sample passage. Through Guided Discussion, walk teachers through the before, during, and after reading processes as outlined on the LETRS Checklist. 
• Teachers will use LETRS Comprehension checklist and CKLA manual to map a reading comprehension lesson.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amanda Kohut
Location: Room 206
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This PIR course is designed to empower educators with the skills and confidence to integrate Canva, a dynamic graphic design platform, into their teaching. Whether creating engaging presentations, interactive assignments, or visually compelling classroom materials, participants will explore the vast possibilities Canva offers to enhance student learning and engagement. By the end of the session, educators will have hands-on experience in designing digital content that supports creativity, collaboration, and student achievement.

• Understand the core features and functionalities of Canva for education.
• Explore creative ways to use Canva for lesson planning, student projects, and classroom visuals.
• Design engaging, high-impact digital materials that enhance student learning.
• Apply best practices for integrating Canva into daily instruction to foster creativity and critical thinking.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Dave Killian
Location: Room 212
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Math Educators Gr 7-12

Adopting a new curriculum is a daunting task - so much for teachers to unpack, to plan...the struggle sometimes is to simply stay days ahead of our students in year one. This is even more pronounced when the style and flow is different than what has been done for prior decades. The goal is to provide examples of lessons & activities, strategies to ease the planning and prepping and to provide an opportunity for collaboration so we, as math educators, can start off our summer on the right foot with a foundation to prepare for the 2026-27 school year.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Abigail Hansen, Rachel Cutler
Location: Room 202
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

Cultivating Classroom Engagement will focus on strategies that teachers (K-12) can use right away in their classrooms to promote student participation, engagement, and deeper thinking. This session is meant to support a teacher in their classroom by helping with classroom management, motivation, class connection, and student engagement in learning.

• Increase teacher confidence in fostering classroom engagement
• Equip teachers with immediately usable engagement strategies
• Support intentional reflection and sustained implementation

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Kara Bell, Kodey Hansen
Location: Room 213
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-2

This professional learning session explores how music can be intentionally integrated into early literacy instruction to strengthen reading and language development. Participants will examine specific musical strategies and resources that support phonological awareness, vocabulary acquisition, fluency, and comprehension. This session directly supports the GFPS strategic goal of improving early literacy outcomes by equipping educators with research-based, engaging instructional practices that enhance student achievement. By connecting music skills to foundational literacy competencies, teachers will gain practical tools to increase student engagement and accelerate reading growth.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Miranda Murray
Location: Room 214
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This session explores the foundational structures and chemistry of the brain and their direct impact on student learning, behavior, attention, and motivation. Participants will gain a practical understanding of brain structure, stress response (the “lizard brain” and “wizard brain”), cognitive load, and key neurochemicals such as dopamine and cortisol. We will also examine emerging research that directly impacts student learning such as, mirror neurons and developmental considerations, and brain maturation.This session will not focus on theory alone, aiming to consistently connect neuroscience to daily classroom realities.

• Understand the basic structures and functions of the brain (including gray matter, white matter, executive function systems, and the stress response) and explain how they impact student learning and behavior.
• Identify how cognitive load affects working memory and instructional design, and apply strategies to reduce overload in daily lessons.
• Recognize the role of mirror neurons and reflect on how their own regulation and modeling influence student brain states.
• Commit to at least one actionable, brain-aligned instructional shift.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Charlene Ammons, Rachel Cutler, Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick, Miranda Murray
Location: Room SC106
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: New Educators Gr PK-6

This course is required for first year teachers and will help them prepare for their first year in the classroom. The focus of this session will be on how to foster relationships between students & teacher and teacher & student families, collectively building a classroom culture.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Shannon Watson, Katie McCluey
Location: Room SC203
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

This 2-hour PIR will empower teachers to use best practices when entering formal grades in PowerSchool to accurately and fairly reflect their students’ progress and abilities. Participants will have the opportunity to examine their current grading practices, deepen their understanding of how to represent student learning as a grade, and collaborate with colleagues to develop grading practices that create meaningfully recorded opportunities in PowerSchool.

• Understand the true purpose and benefits of fair and accurate grading in the classroom.
• Explore evidence-based strategies for grading accurately and fairly.
• Reflect on the potential impact of grading on student engagement and achievement

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Kristin DeHaan, Melissa Roullier
Location: Room SC205
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr 3-5

This PIR is designed to equip teachers with the knowledge and strategies necessary to effectively implement the “launch, monitor, and connect’ components of Amplify Desmos math lessons. There will be a specific focus on lesson pacing, effective questioning techniques, and the why behind the instructional framework and inquiry process. Participants will learn how to effectively implement the “launch, monitor, and connect” components of an Amplify Desmos math lesson within the 3-5 grade levels bands. By the end of the PIR, participants will be familiar with effective pacing and questioning strategies to implement during Amplify Desmos math lessons, as well as the purpose behind the program’s instructional framework as it pertains to the inquiry process. These strategies, combined with a solid foundational understanding of the instructional framework, will enable teachers to maximize the benefits of inquiry learning for their students.

• Understand the purpose and benefits of the instructional framework’s “flipped gradual release” design.
• Understand the purpose and benefits of inquiry learning in mathematics.
• Equip teachers with evidence-based, effective questioning strategies.
• Build confidence and understanding of the structure of an Amplify Desmos lesson

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Nicole Heintzelman, Lacee Lewis
Location: Room SC204
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This session will provide staff with the crisis cycle and work through de-escalation with students to support Healthy, Safe, and Secure Schools. We will work through a PowerPoint of the crisis cycle and then do table top exercises about different scenarios of de-escalation.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Virg Hale
Location: Room SC102
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr 7-12

EdReady will be present to explain how teachers will access and use the EdReady Platform to monitor progress and growth in the math standards. This platform will replace IXL use in intervention and resource courses grade 7-8. This course is strongly reccomended for resource teachers who used IXL in the past.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Carnegie Learning
Location: Room SC101
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-5

Join us for an engaging professional development session focused on a “strong” lesson. Experience effective Think Alouds, and discover how to incorporate gradual release and scaffolded instruction techniques to support student learning. Delve into methods for boosting student engagement and assessing comprehension through frequent checks for understanding. Finally, explore practical approaches for differentiation and small group instruction to meet the diverse needs of all learners following whole-group lessons. Walk away with actionable insights and tools to enhance your teaching and optimize student outcomes.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Ashley Moore, Ann Schmidt, Beckie Frisbee
Location: Room SC105
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: New Educators Gr 7-12

This course is required for first year teachers and will help them prepare for their first year in the classroom. The focus of this session will be on classroom management, behavior management, routines and procedures.

Prerequisite: Enrolled in LETRS course
Presenter: LETRS Trainer
Location: Room SC108
Materials needed: LETRS Volume 1 manual
Target audience: Enrolled Educators

Participants will explore key concepts from LETRS Volume 1 that build the foundation of the science of reading, including the structure of language, phonology, phonics, and word recognition. Educators will reflect on how these concepts inform effective early literacy instruction and identify ways to strengthen foundational reading practices in their classrooms.

Prerequisite: Enrolled in LETRS course, Completion of Volume 1
Presenter: LETRS Trainer
Location: Room SC109
Materials needed: LETRS Volume 2 manual
Target audience: Enrolled Educators

Participants will examine key concepts from LETRS Volume 2, focusing on vocabulary, language comprehension, reading comprehension, and writing. Educators will connect research-based practices to classroom instruction and identify strategies to support students in developing deeper understanding and stronger literacy skills.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Kurt Shepherd
Location: Room SC206
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

One of the greatest features of Amplify Desmos Math and the free Amplify Classroom (formerly known as Desmos Classroom) platform is the ability to customize existing lessons or even create new ones on your own. Participants will learn how to customize an existing lesson to fit the needs of their classroom, how the activity editing screen works and each feature in the screen, how to copy screens from another activity into your own, and how to start an activity from scratch. There will be time for teachers to take what they have learned and either customize an activity or create their own. Please bring the materials you would need to do either of these things.

• Discuss how the “Desmos Design Principles" how we approach instruction and lesson design
• See different tools available and uses for each one.
• How to add a tool to an activity.
• Integrating pre-made starter screens, check-in screens, exit tickets, and templates in your activity.
• Integrating creations from Desmos Graphing Calculator and Geometry tools.
• Integrating creations from Polypad.
• Adding embedded calculators to activities.
• Using Computational Layer to:
  • Have features that interact with each other.
  • To give student feedback on if answers are correct.
  • To give teacher feedback on if answers are correct.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Rikka Walters
Location: Room SC202
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This PIR is designed to teach teachers a simple and inexpensive photographic technique that they can easily use in their classrooms. This technique has an impressive wow-factor that will engage students immediately. Teachers taking this PIR will work through four separate assignments, in four different subject areas that can be differentiated/scaffolded to accommodate PreK-12 learners. There is a creative element to this PIR, but no drawing skills are required so don’t be afraid!

• Learn the cyanotype process through demonstration and practice
• Hands-on activity #1: Math/Science Integration….measuring space and time
• Hands-on activity #2: Art/ELA Integration….tell a story using images
• Hands-on activity #3: Science/Soc St Integration….animals and habitats
• Hands-on activity #4: SEL/Art/SEL Integration….self portraits using character strong values

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amanda Tramill, Amanda Blair
Location: Room SC201
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This interactive PIR course transforms everyday materials into powerful learning experiences. Through hands-on STEAM challenges—such as Indian Ink Design, mask design, and skyscraper building—participants will explore how to integrate creativity, engineering, and problem-solving into the classroom. The course emphasizes executive functioning skills, collaboration, and inclusive practices, with a focus on supporting students with IEPs and 504 plans. Educators will learn how to intentionally align STEAM activities with curriculum standards while creating accessible, engaging learning environments for all students.

• Design and implement hands-on STEAM activities that integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math while aligning with grade-level curriculum standards.
• Embed executive functioning supports (e.g., planning, organization, flexible thinking, task initiation, and self-regulation) into STEAM projects to increase student engagement and independence.
• Facilitate collaborative learning experiences that promote teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills through structured group roles and shared responsibilities.
• Adapt and scaffold STEAM activities to ensure meaningful access and participation for students with IEPs and 504 plans, using inclusive practices and differentiated supports.
• Connect STEAM projects to real-world learning outcomes by intentionally linking hands-on activities to academic goals, assessment practices, and cross-curricular instruction.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Sandy Harrington
Location: Room SC104
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

Come join me on a journey to the Amazon Rainforest and River! We will travel to Iquitos, Peru, and explore the open market and then travel to three villages to explore the rainforest Native cultures and landscape. We will dive into village life, navigating the economy, lifestyle and features of the people, understanding how the Amazon River affects all aspects of their lives. Next we will compare their dependence on the Amazon River to our reliance on the Missouri River in Great Falls. We will analyze how our food and culture are intricately tied to this source. Then we will wrap up with adapting these skills to grade levels kindergarten through 8th grade and find field trips that can be integrated into this unit.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Charlene Ammons, Rachel Cutler, Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick, Miranda Murray
Location: Room SC106
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: New Educators Gr PK-6

This session is required for first year teachers and will help them prepare for their first year in the classroom. The focus will be on developing, teaching, and reinforcing routines and procedures. Participants will learn about and practice using interactive modeling to teach routines and procedures.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Shannon Watson, Katie McCluey
Location: Room SC203
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

This 2-hour PIR will empower teachers to use best practices when entering formal grades in PowerSchool to accurately and fairly reflect their students’ progress and abilities. Participants will have the opportunity to examine their current grading practices, deepen their understanding of how to represent student learning as a grade, and collaborate with colleagues to develop grading practices that create meaningfully recorded opportunities in PowerSchool.

• Understand the true purpose and benefits of fair and accurate grading in the classroom.
• Explore evidence-based strategies for grading accurately and fairly.
• Reflect on the potential impact of grading on student engagement and achievement

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Nicole Heintzelman, Lacee Lewis
Location: Room SC204
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This session will provide staff with the crisis cycle and work through de-escalation with students to support Healthy, Safe, and Secure Schools. We will work through a PowerPoint of the crisis cycle and then do table top exercises about different scenarios of de-escalation.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Virg Hale
Location: Room SC102
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr 7-12

EdReady will be present to explain how teachers will access and use the EdReady Platform to monitor progress and growth in the math standards. This platform will replace IXL use in intervention and resource courses grade 7-8. This course is strongly reccomended for resource teachers who used IXL in the past.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amanda Kohut
Location: Room SC205
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr 7-12

This PIR provides hands-on training in three critical areas: assessment administration, data analysis through various reporting features, and performance task rubric implementation. Participants will learn to navigate the platform efficiently, manage online assessments, and utilize key reporting tools. By the end of the session, educators will be equipped with the necessary skills to leverage Performance Matters for data-driven instruction and assessment, with clear pathways for ongoing support and resources for continued learning.

• Navigate Performance Matters platform effectively
• Administer online assessments
• Analyze various assessment reports
• Understand and utilize performance task rubrics

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Carnegie Learning
Location: Room SC101
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr 3-12

Socratic circles offer a powerful way to shift classroom talk from teacher-led to student-driven. In this hands-on session, educators will experience a Socratic Seminar as learners, analyze the structures and teacher moves that deepen academic discussion, and design a seminar aligned to their grade level and content. Participants will practice facilitation strategies that support equitable participation and purposeful talk, then leave with a ready-to-use plan and tools to implement immediately in their classrooms.

Check out the variety of food trucks in the student parking lot! 

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Charlene Ammons, Rachel Cutler, Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick, Miranda Murray
Location: Room SC106
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: New Educators Gr PK-6

This course is required for first year teachers and will help them prepare for their first year in the classroom. The focus of this session will be on bringing the concepts of classroom management, behavior management, and student engagement strategies together.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Stephanie Benson
Location: Room SC203
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

This PIR  is designed to show teachers how to integrate Ad Vantis VR’s and Eduverse pre planned lessons, or  activities into their classroom lessons. These lessons bring students to worlds they may never actually visit in real life, or bring students into stories that don’t actually exist.  There are even lessons that help students wrap their minds around mathematical concepts that are hard for them to understand. This PIR will have teachers leave with two extra tools in their pockets to keep students engaged and ready to learn.

• Understand how to use the VR’s and send lessons from the computer to the devices. 
• Explore the Ad Vantis Website and find lessons for the VR’s
• Explore the Eduverse website and find 3D lessons 
• Reflect on the potential impact of using the the VR’s in your classroom or the Eduverse and coming up with a plan or idea of when and how you could use them.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Dannelle Dyke, Ty Moore, Shanda Brown
Location: Room SC205
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-12

This session will be a two hour session to receive an overview of the GFPS Mentor Program. Participants must be assigned, by their principal, to mentor a 1st year teacher at their school. Build your learning-focused toolkit, compare Versatility in Stance, and recognize stages and needs of a first year teacher. Mentors will reflect on a timeline for implementation and outline their first protege meeting for August/September.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Lance Boyd
Location: Room SC204
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-12

This session will be focused around helping teachers create, build and model behavior plans for Tier 2 and Tier 3 student level behavior. We will discuss creation of behavior plans in simple and easy to use terms and how teachers can modify and adjust plans as data is collected along the way.

• What is Behavior?
• What resources are out there to support writing a behavior plan?
• What is in a behavior plan and how can I measure what I need to measure?
• Behavior plan format and entering in EdHub
• Data Collection and Review of District and Building Resources
• RCD, Character Strong, and EDHub will be utilized

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Carnegie Learning
Location: Room SC101
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

Students love to talk—until we ask them to do it for learning. The moment we introduce an academic discussion, the energy shifts: silence, side-eyes, and the classic "I don’t know." So, what happens next? The teacher does all the talking. This session equips educators to transform what students do best into student-led discussions that drive higher-order thinking and achievement. Participants will explore routines and strategies that build transferable discourse skills. By the end, you will be prepared to cultivate a classroom culture where student talk fosters deep learning and collaboration.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Caitlyn Byers, Frontier Learning Lab
Location: Room SC106
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This session is designed to move K–12 educators and administrators from initial awareness to a balanced, professional stance on Artificial Intelligence. We will focus on establishing clear boundaries for safety and privacy while identifying immediate ways AI can support educational workflows. The session follows a high-engagement format designed to move quickly from theory to action.

We will explore the mechanics of generative AI, identify critical risks such as data privacy and bias, and establish the "Human-in-the-Loop" workflow—a professional standard that ensures human judgment remains the final authority over all AI-generated content.

Participants will engage in a structured exploration of AI tools to solve "real-world" professional tasks. You will draft and refine essential school artifacts—such as family communications, staff memos, or department updates—practicing how to audit AI outputs for accuracy, tone, and local relevance.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Kurt Shepherd
Location: Room SC206
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators K-6

This is for people who want to become more proficient and comfortable using the Dashboard Controls in Amplify Desmos Math and the free version of Amplify Classroom (formerly Desmos Classroom). Participants will practice using the Dashboard features as well as instructional strategies to maximize student engagement and learning using the platform. Using the Teacher Dashboard for pacing instruction, formative assessment, sparking class discussion, differentiation, and more will be covered in this session. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice using all these features so that they are comfortable with them when they return to the classroom.

• Discuss how the “Desmos Design Principles” change how we approach instruction
• Understand how to use the Pace, Sync to Me, and Pause features to manage instruction
• Each view and its role in instruction, management, and assessment
• How to create and use Snapshots for sparking class discussion
• The use of the Sketch Everywhere feature during instruction
• The purpose and use of the Anonymize feature
• How each feature is used to change our instructional approach

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Michelle Noriega, Katelyn Marski
Location: Room SC204
Materials needed: none
Target Audience: Everyone

Attend this interactive workshop and learn how to leverage GFPS Foundation annual grants to deepen your students’ learning and your growth as an education professional. While mini grants are also available from the Foundation, the primary focus for this workshop will be the exploration of annual grant opportunities as it relates to your curriculum. This includes Learning Enhancement, Community Collaboration, and Immersive Professional Learning Grants.

• Understand annual grant offerings available for teachers
• Conduct a self-inventory to determine areas of curriculum that could be leveraged with a grant project
• Partner with fellow attendees to prompt idea generation and further develop ideas into actional plans
• Obtain insights from past grant recipients on how they connected their grant ideas to student learning
• Walk away with one fleshed out grant idea to submit for consideration

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Rebekah Strausheim
Location: Room SC201
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This session is designed to prepare teachers for creating a successful digital learning experience using the Chromebooks in the classroom. Participants will get to know the Chromebook and overview classroom procedures and best practices. They will participate in hands-on activities to enhance their working knowledge of Chromebooks. They will also explore how to utilize the Google Classroom (grades 2-12) and/or Clever (K-12) learning management systems.

• Build teacher confidence in navigating and using Chromebooks in the classroom
• Understand and apply classroom management strategies for device use
• Explore key functions of Google Classroom (2–12) and Clever (K–12)

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: SAVVAS Trainer
Location: Room SC102
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Math Educators Gr 9-12

Program activation for Integrated I, integrated II and Foundations of Math. This training is strongly encouraged for teachers of INT I, II and Foundations. This course provides instrution innavigating the Realize platform used with the enVision series. Teachers who Piloted Savvas last year do not need to do the training again.

Prerequisite: Required for All First Year Teachers in Gr K-2
Presenter: Charlene Ammons, Rachel Cutler, Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick, Miranda Murray
Location: Room SC104
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-2

This course will help new teachers prepare for their first year in the classroom. The focus of this session is to get an overview of the math and science curriculum resources, navigating both the teacher manual and the online access, to get the year started. 

Prerequisite: Required for All First Year Teachers in Gr 3-6
Presenter: Charlene Ammons, Rachel Cutler, Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick, Miranda Murray
Location: Room SC108
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr 3-6

This course will help new teachers prepare for their first year in the classroom. The focus of this session is to get an overview of the math and science curriculum resources, navigating both the teacher manual and the online access, to get the year started. 

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Annie Poole, Denise Kingsley
Location: Room SC109
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This Professional In-Residence (PIR) course is designed to equip teachers with practical strategies to support English Language Learners (ELLs) in the classroom. Participants will explore research-based instructional practices that promote language acquisition, comprehension, and academic confidence across content areas.
A key component of this course will focus on learning and practicing high-utility Spanish phrases that teachers can immediately implement to improve communication, build rapport, and provide clear classroom directions. Emphasis will be placed on pronunciation, context-specific usage, and culturally responsive interactions.

• Creating a language-rich classroom environment
• Sheltered instruction strategies
• Vocabulary development techniques
• Scaffolding for content comprehension
• Family communication support
• Essential Spanish phrases for daily classroom use

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Kara Bell, Kodey Hansen
Location: Room SC203
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Educators Gr PK-2

This professional learning session explores how music can be intentionally integrated into early literacy instruction to strengthen reading and language development. Participants will examine specific musical strategies and resources that support phonological awareness, vocabulary acquisition, fluency, and comprehension. This session directly supports the GFPS strategic goal of improving early literacy outcomes by equipping educators with research-based, engaging instructional practices that enhance student achievement. By connecting music skills to foundational literacy competencies, teachers will gain practical tools to increase student engagement and accelerate reading growth.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amplify Desmos Trainer
Location: Room SC101
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

Learn how to leverage embedded differentiated supports in Amplify Math to ensure that all students can be successful. Walk away with a plan for supporting students in your classroom including multilingual/English learners (ML/ELs), students with disabilities, students who may need extra support, and advanced students.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Sandy Harrington
Location: Room SC205
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

When students write to explain what they are reading, they deepen their understanding. But teaching writing can be difficult. Learn strategies to help students choose topics, organize their thoughts, and write complete essays. As we help our students develop their writing skills, they will also improve their reading skills and actively participate in their learning. We will wrap up by developing plans for the upcoming year into teachers’ grade levels and subjects.

• Understand the four steps in the writing process.
• Use a writing exemplar and rubric to guide students’ writing.
• Integrate science and social studies standards with the writing standards.
• Reflect on ways to integrate these skills into various grade levels and subjects.

Prerequisite: Must be 2nd year teacher
Presenter: Ty Moore
Location: Room SC202
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators in Year 2 of Teaching Career

Year 2: From Surviving to Thriving is designed specifically for elementary educators who are ready to move from managing instruction to maximizing impact in their 2nd year or new to a building. This session centers on identifying and strengthening the small, strategic instructional and classroom moves that consistently produce the greatest gains in student learning, efficiency, and teacher confidence. Rather than adding more to your plate, we will clarify what matters most — and sharpen it. A key focus of this experience is helping teachers think quarter by quarter. Participants will learn how to intentionally identify the most impactful priorities for each grading period — the systems, routines, instructional focuses, and professional habits that will make the year increasingly efficient and calm. Instead of reacting to the year as it unfolds, teachers will leave with a proactive plan that builds momentum each quarter.

• Strengthen classroom systems that create calm, predictable learning environments
• Refine daily instructional routines that increase clarity and engagement
• Practice high-impact feedback that accelerates student growth
• Explore ways to grow influence and leadership within a grade level or team
• Build consistency in responding to behavior with professionalism and confidence
• Learn how to identify, quarter by quarter, the few high-impact tasks that reduce overwhelm and increase efficiency

Prerequisite: Newly hired
Presenter: Kirsten Conrad, Jacinda Huscher
Location: Room SC105
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: New Special Education PK-6

This PIR aligns with the strategic belief of Academic Achievement and is designed to support special education teachers in effectively assessing students, analyzing data, identifying skills aligned with Montana state standards, and designing customized instructional plans. This training aligns with GFPS’s strategic goal to ensure a minimum of 80% of students achieve at least one year’s academic growth in math and literacy annually. The session will provide teachers with practical strategies, hands-on experiences, and collaborative discussions to enhance instructional effectiveness and student outcomes.

• Equip special education teachers with tools and strategies to assess student learning effectively.
• Provide training on data analysis techniques to inform instructional decisions.
• Align instruction with Montana state standards to bridge student skill gaps.
• Develop customized educational plans that meet diverse learning needs.
• Foster collaboration and reflective practices among educators to improve student outcomes.

Check out the variety of food trucks in the student parking lot! 

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Caitlyn Byers, Frontier Learning Lab
Location: Room SC106
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

Shifting from basic drafting to sophisticated application, this session focuses on the long-term integration of AI in the classroom. We will investigate how AI can serve as a powerful engine for tailoring instruction to diverse student needs and how to establish clear, consistent expectations for a school community.

We will analyze strategies for using AI to support instructional goals, specifically focusing on "Safe Differentiation." This includes using AI to adapt reading levels, scaffold complex topics, or generate multiple versions of a lesson based on student interest—all without compromising student data privacy. We will also discuss the essential steps for building a cohesive school-wide approach to AI.

This is a hands-on session. Educators will work to "tier" an existing lesson plan for various learner needs, while administrators could focus on drafting guidance and communication plans for their local context. We will also build AI assistants for specific workflows. The workshop concludes with a "14-Day Implementation Goal," where every participant identifies one specific, low-stakes AI task they will implement in their practice immediately following the training.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Kurt Shepherd
Location: Room SC206
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators K-6

This is for people who feel proficient and comfortable using the Dashboard Controls in Amplify Desmos Math and the free version of Amplify Classroom (formerly Desmos Classroom) and want to learn more. Participants will dive into ways to combine different Dashboard Features to do more with lessons. Time will be spent showing how to combine snapshots from different screens, use the Sketch Everywhere feature in lessons, and how to use pacing and sync controls with the Anonymize feature to provide more student feedback. Time will be spent on how the “Desmos Design Principles" change how we approach instruction. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice using all these features so that they are comfortable with them when they return to the classroom.

• Discuss how the “Desmos Design Principles” change how we approach instruction.
• Understand how to switch between the Pace, Pause, Sync to Me, and Anonymize features to manage instruction and improve feedback.
• Each view and its role in instruction, management, assessment, and student feedback.
• How to create and use Snapshots from different screens for sparking class discussion.
• The use of the Sketch Everywhere feature during instruction.
• How each feature is used to change our instructional approach.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Bryanna Carr, Courtney Wolery
Location: Room SC203
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr 3-5

This PIR is designed to empower teachers in grades 3-5 to use Science of Reading best practices to effectively facilitate student reading comprehension. Educators will learn how to effectively plan for narrative and informational text comprehension by identifying tasks to complete with students before, during, and after text reading. By the end of the PIR, participants will be able to use Science of Reading best practices to plan for student reading comprehension. 

• Discuss/Define Scarborough's Reading Rope and the Simple View of Reading
• Define reading comprehension
• Present LETRS Comprehension Checklist with a sample passage. Through Guided Discussion, walk teachers through the before, during, and after reading processes as outlined on the LETRS Checklist. 
• Teachers will use LETRS Comprehension checklist and CKLA manual to map a reading comprehension lesson.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amanda Kohut
Location: Room SC205
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This PIR course is designed to empower educators with the skills and confidence to integrate Canva, a dynamic graphic design platform, into their teaching. Whether creating engaging presentations, interactive assignments, or visually compelling classroom materials, participants will explore the vast possibilities Canva offers to enhance student learning and engagement. By the end of the session, educators will have hands-on experience in designing digital content that supports creativity, collaboration, and student achievement.

• Understand the core features and functionalities of Canva for education.
• Explore creative ways to use Canva for lesson planning, student projects, and classroom visuals.
• Design engaging, high-impact digital materials that enhance student learning.
• Apply best practices for integrating Canva into daily instruction to foster creativity and critical thinking.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Ty Moore
Location: Room SC202
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

Transform the way you communicate with students, parents, and colleagues using tactical empathy and negotiation skills from former FBI negotiator Chris Voss! This high-energy, hands-on PIR will give you the tools to de-escalate conflicts, foster collaboration, and reduce stress in your daily interactions.  Through engaging role-play and real-world scenarios, you’ll learn how to:

• Build trust quickly and create positive connections.
• Use mirroring & labeling to reduce resistance.
• Ask the right questions to guide conversations.
• Navigate tough situations with confidence.
• Create a safe, supportive school environment.

Designed for teachers, administrators, and all staff, this game-changing training will help you turn challenges into opportunities—immediately!

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Rebekah Strausheim
Location: Room SC201
Materials needed: n/a
Target Audience: Everyone

This session is designed to prepare teachers for creating a successful digital learning experience using the Promethean panels (interactive TV) in the classroom. Participants will get to know the Promethean panel and overview classroom procedures and best practices. Participants will participate in hands-on activities to enhance their knowledge of using their Promethean panel.

• Understand the features and functions of the Promethean panel and how it supports instructional goals.
• Explore best practices and classroom procedures for using interactive displays effectively.
• Engage in hands-on activities to build confidence with Promethean tools and software.

Prerequisite: Required for All First Year Teachers in Gr K-2
Presenter: Charlene Ammons, Rachel Cutler, Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick, Miranda Murray
Location: Room SC104
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-2

This course will help new teachers prepare for their first year in the classroom. The focus of this session is to get an overview of the ELA and Social Studies curriculum resources, navigating both the teacher manual and the online access, to get the year started. 

Prerequisite: Required for All First Year Teachers in Gr 3-6
Presenter: Charlene Ammons, Rachel Cutler, Arika Hagel, Becky Bralick, Miranda Murray
Location: Room SC108
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr 3-6

This course will help new teachers prepare for their first year in the classroom. The focus of this session is to get an overview of the ELA and Social Studies curriculum resources, navigating both the teacher manual and the online access, to get the year started. 

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: SAVVAS Trainer
Location: Room SC102
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Math Educators Gr 7-8

Program activation course is strongly reccomended for 7th and 8th grade math teeachers. This course provides instrution innavigating the Realize platform used with the enVision series. Teachers who Piloted Savvas last year do not need to do the training again.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Brian Miller, Jessica Cape, Sam Brandt
Location: Room SC204
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This PIR is designed to empower teachers to leverage ChatGPT as a tool to increase instructional efficiency while intentionally preparing students for a future shaped by artificial intelligence. Rather than viewing AI as a disruption, this session positions it as a strategic support for strong teaching and deeper student learning.

Additionally, this session supports the GFPS Profile of a Learner, including the development of Critical Thinkers, Strong Communicators, Problem Solvers, individuals with Work Ethic, and students who demonstrate Integrity. Participants will explore how to explicitly teach students to evaluate AI outputs, recognize bias, refine prompts, and use AI ethically and responsibly.

• Use ChatGPT to save planning time and strengthen instruction.
• Integrate AI literacy into classroom expectations and assignments.
• Align AI use with district goals for student growth and learner traits.
• Model responsible, ethical, and critical AI engagement for students.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Amplify Desmos Trainer
Location: Room SC101
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Educators Gr K-6

Prepare to effectively teach Amplify Math lessons by engaging in collaborative backward mapping with experts. Work alongside our facilitators to understand how to target key concepts and make effective instructional decisions across a unit, and leave with a completed unit plan for your class.

Prerequisite: n/a
Presenter: Annie Poole, Denise Kingsley
Location: Room SC109
Materials needed: laptop
Target Audience: Everyone

This Professional In-Residence (PIR) course is designed to equip teachers with practical strategies to support English Language Learners (ELLs) in the classroom. Participants will explore research-based instructional practices that promote language acquisition, comprehension, and academic confidence across content areas.
A key component of this course will focus on learning and practicing high-utility Spanish phrases that teachers can immediately implement to improve communication, build rapport, and provide clear classroom directions. Emphasis will be placed on pronunciation, context-specific usage, and culturally responsive interactions.

• Creating a language-rich classroom environment
• Sheltered instruction strategies
• Vocabulary development techniques
• Scaffolding for content comprehension
• Family communication support
• Essential Spanish phrases for daily classroom use