Arrive on campus, check in, and receive your materials for the day.

Join us as we kick off the 2022 conference with some entertaining and inspirational messages.

Admissions and Financial Aid: How Do I Get in? And How Do I Pay for it? - ISU Admissions and Financial Aid
Schroeder 211
Session will cover ISU admission and financial aid process, including grants for future teachers.

Be a STEM Superhero - Mandy White
DeGarmo 52
Become a STEM superhero as you learn how to incorporate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into your teaching. We will look at how Next Generation Science Standards and Practices lay the foundation for guiding students through STEM challenges.  Learn ways to engage elementary learners in engineering experiences and fostering problem-solving.

Becoming a Culturally Responsive Teacher - Dr. Dakesa Piña
Schroeder 207
Engage with Dr. Dakesa Piña, College of Education Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer to learn about becoming a culturally responsive educator. Regardless of your background, learn the importance of crafting an inclusive teaching philosophy for your career as an educator.

Brain-Based Social Emotional Learning: Teaching and Learning with the Whole Child in Mind - Abby Lyons
DeGarmo Area 21
Every student comes to school with a different experience of the world. In this session, we will explore Social Emotional Learning through a brain-based lens to make sense of the ways we can create supportive environments for all students.

Class Observation: Current Topics and Issues in Education - Dr. Ben Wellenreiter
DeGarmo 209
Observe a senior-level teacher education course. Middle Level Professional Development School (PDS) preservice teachers will discuss an issue relevant to all Pre-K-12 teacher educators. 

Diversity Matters
DeGarmo 551
Diversity and Inclusion are core values at Illinois State University. Join students and faculty mentors for a panel discussion about how diversity is celebrated. Participants will learn about student organizations and other community groups related to diversity, advocacy, and service.
In-session resource

Endorsement Basics - Troy Hinkel
State Farm Hall of Business 132
Are you wondering how endorsements work and what endorsements you can earn? Learn about licensing, endorsements, and hear about a few of the most in-demand areas of education.

Cultivating Your Teacher Identity - Patricia Valente
State Farm Hall of Business 147
You are never too young to walk in your calling as a teacher. This session will inspire you to continue to cultivate your teacher identity through interactive reflection on the experiences that draws you to teach.

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Student Teaching
State Farm Hall of Business 366
Join student teachers and university student teaching supervisors for a panel discussion on what to expect during the student teaching experience. They will discuss the joys, excitement, challenges, and opportunities for growth provided by this capstone to the teacher education program.

Firefighters, Exiles, and Protectors: Exploring Your Many Parts from the Inside Out - Dr. Becky Beucher
Fell Hall 148
Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in your head having conversations with yourself? Do these voices disagree; agree; sometimes get along, sometimes not? Do they sometimes tell you to do different things, or make you feel a whole bunch of conflicting feelings and emotions? It can be confusing to be one person living with what can some days literally feel like different versions of yourself competing for your attention. Dr. Richard Schwartz developed the concept of Internal Family Systems to help us understand that all of these parts of ourselves deserve our attention and are there to help us out. In this workshop, you will learn about the three basic categories of the self: fire fighters, exiles, and protectors. And, you will begin to explore your own parts. This is not meant to be a therapeutic session. This session is intended to give you a better idea of what these internal voices and feelings are all about, and from there you can spend time using the same methods we practice in the workshop to continue exploring the many parts of you.

From Chicago Public Schools to ISU - Dr. Apryl Riley
McCormick Hall 255
Calling all Chicago Public School (CPS) students! Hear about ISU’s longstanding partnership with CPS and opportunities for scholarships, student teaching in CPS, and our new partnership with Teach Chicago Tomorrow for opportunities to take all your courses without leaving the city.

How (and Why) to be a Redbird - Kate McCarthy
State Farm Hall of Business 131
Learn why students love Illinois State, how we prepare them for success, and how we help make it affordable.

Identify Your Impact - Jennifer Panganiban
Fairchild Hall 203
We will talk about your personal “why” for teaching and how having that “why” can drive the passion that builds a great teacher. We will also discuss some of the key characteristics of teachers and the impact you, as a future teacher, can have on the world.

International Teaching - Dr. Monica Noraian and Dr. Erin Mikulec
State Farm Hall of Business 133
Do you enjoy travel, exploring the world, and learning new things? There are a lot of opportunities to internationalize your education while becoming a teacher at Illinois State University. This session will introduce you to some of the ways students are doing study abroad experiences during their teacher education sequence.

Introduction to Civic Engagement - Annie Weaver and Katy Strzepek
State Farm Hall of Business 145
What is civic engagement? Learn about this strategy for change and how teachers can integrate civic engagement.

Is Brown to Blame? Where Did the Black Teachers Go and How Do We Get Them Back? - Brandon Thornton and Jen Brooks
DeGarmo 305
This session will discuss the Black teacher shortage by linking it to the systemic (i.e., legal, social, political, historical) barriers and obstacles faced while attempting to enter the field. In addition,this talk will contain discourse around the fidelity of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives as well as encourage students to be change agents as they prepare to become future teachers. High school students will be encouraged to reflect and implement an action plan that shapes a better future for our youth of color.

Listening Circles - Kevin Jones
Fairchild 301
With roots in indigenous cultures around the world, listening circles provide people an opportunity to speak and listen to each other in an  atmosphere of safety, decorum, and equality. To help people gain a shared sense of understanding and emotional connection, these circles can be used in communities, schools, organizations, and families.You will participate in a listening circle on a current topic and you will learn to facilitate listening circles for any topic your community requires. 

Mindfulness - Danica Mathis
Schroeder 246 
This session will discuss the benefits of Mindfulness and its impact on both teachers and students. There is more to Mindfulness than being present and aware of your thoughts. You will learn several ways to utilize Mindfulness for students. You will be given ways to create a positive classroom environment, promote positive student behavior, and maintain a positive and successful school year.

Practicing Our Humanity: Beyond Cancel Culture to Civil Conversations - Rebekah Hoffman, Shannon Maney-Magnuson, and Amy Reiman
DeGarmo 39
We have all experienced the negative impacts of outrage culture on our conversations online and in person. As future educators, you will play an important role in facilitating classroom conversations that bring more voices to the table and in helping your students acquire the listening skills to engage with ideas they may disagree with. In this session, we will explore the ways in which cancel culture appeals to the human brain, but we will also examine strategies for pursuing civil conversation in the classroom and in the world at large.

Prepare Now to land Your Dream Teaching Job Later - Kristal Shelvin, Monica Wilks and Sherri Thomas
DeGarmo 306
Future teachers will learn tips and tricks to take advantage of targeted opportunities during college.  The goal is to prepare strong applicants for future openings.

Student Panel
DeGarmo 208
Are you interested in hearing from the current Illinois State University education majors? Come have a dialogue with a panel of students to learn about their experiences on campus. The panel will be comprised of a variety of majors and there will be plenty of time to ask questions and learn about ways to get involved as an education major.

Teaching High School - Dr. Ryan Brown
State Farm Hall of Business 135
Learn about subject areas and extracurricular opportunities.

Tech Playground
DeGarmo 307
Join us in Studio Teach, a studio space for hands-on learning to explore the possibilities of learning through making. There is space to design, tinker, and build for tomorrow's learners using an array of high- and low-tech devices and supplies.

To Education and Beyond - Molly Dunne
Schroeder 215
In education, we speak many acronyms- LBS, TVI, OT, SLP, ESP, and more. In this session, we will share the many different roles in education and talk about how each supports students to become their highest and best selves. Come learn how to be a teacher and beyond!

Understanding Trauma in the Classroom - Kirsten Hany
DeGarmo 31
This session will focus on trauma and trauma-informed practices in the middle school and high school classroom. This includes understanding the complex nature of trauma and its effects on students both behaviorally and academically. It will also include practical advice on relationship building and curating a trauma informed classroom.

Lunch
Lunch will be held on DeGarmo Plaza (outside DeGarmo Hall). A bag lunch will be provided.

Lunch Keynote: Why Teaching?
Dr. Lindsey Jensen, 2018 Illinois Teacher of the Year
Why choose teaching at a time when so many people are telling you not to? Join Lindsey Jensen as she explores all of the ways that teaching will empower you to become agents of change for the next generation of students!

Table Fair
The table fair will include information from all education programs, student organizations, and more. Students will have a chance to win exciting prizes, including an iPad.

View Table Fair Map

Admissions and Financial Aid: How Do I Get in? And How Do I Pay for it? - ISU Admissions and Financial Aid
Schroeder 211
Session will cover ISU admission and financial aid process, including grants for future teachers.

Be a STEM Superhero - Mandy White
DeGarmo 52
Become a STEM superhero as you learn how to incorporate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into your teaching. We will look at how Next Generation Science Standards and Practices lay the foundation for guiding students through STEM challenges.  Learn ways to engage elementary learners in engineering experiences and fostering problem-solving.

Brain-Based Social Emotional Learning: Teaching and Learning with the Whole Child in Mind - Abby Lyons
DeGarmo Area 21
Every student comes to school with a different experience of the world. In this session, we will explore Social Emotional Learning through a brain-based lens to make sense of the ways we can create supportive environments for all students.

Diversity Matters
DeGarmo 551
Diversity and Inclusion are core values at Illinois State University. Join students and faculty mentors for a panel discussion about how diversity is celebrated. Participants will learn about student organizations and other community groups related to diversity, advocacy, and service.
In-session resource

Endorsement Basics - Troy Hinkel
State Farm Hall of Business 132
Are you wondering how endorsements work and what endorsements you can earn? Learn about licensing, endorsements, and hear about a few of the most in-demand areas of education.

Cultivating Your Teacher Identity - Patricia Valente
State Farm Hall of Business 147
You are never too young to walk in your calling as a teacher. This session will inspire you to continue to cultivate your teacher identity through interactive reflection on the experiences that draws you to teach.

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Student Teaching
State Farm Hall of Business 366
Join student teachers and university student teaching supervisors for a panel discussion on what to expect during the student teaching experience. They will discuss the joys, excitement, challenges, and opportunities for growth provided by this capstone to the teacher education program.

Firefighters, Exiles, and Protectors: Exploring Your Many Parts from the Inside Out - Dr. Becky Beucher
DeGarmo 504
Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in your head having conversations with yourself? Do these voices disagree; agree; sometimes get along, sometimes not? Do they sometimes tell you to do different things, or make you feel a whole bunch of conflicting feelings and emotions? It can be confusing to be one person living with what can some days literally feel like different versions of yourself competing for your attention. Dr. Richard Schwartz developed the concept of Internal Family Systems to help us understand that all of these parts of ourselves deserve our attention and are there to help us out. In this workshop, you will learn about the three basic categories of the self: fire fighters, exiles, and protectors. And, you will begin to explore your own parts. This is not meant to be a therapeutic session. This session is intended to give you a better idea of what these internal voices and feelings are all about, and from there you can spend time using the same methods we practice in the workshop to continue exploring the many parts of you.

From Chicago Public Schools to ISU - Dr. Apryl Riley
McCormick Hall 255
Calling all Chicago Public School (CPS) students! Hear about ISU’s longstanding partnership with CPS and opportunities for scholarships, student teaching in CPS, and our new partnership with Teach Chicago Tomorrow for opportunities to take all your courses without leaving the city.

How (and Why) to be a Redbird - Kate McCarthy
State Farm Hall of Business 131
Learn why students love Illinois State, how we prepare them for success, and how we help make it affordable.

Identify Your Impact - Jennifer Panganiban
Fairchild Hall 203
We will talk about your personal “why” for teaching and how having that “why” can drive the passion that builds a great teacher. We will also discuss some of the key characteristics of teachers and the impact you, as a future teacher, can have on the world.

International Teaching - Dr. Monica Noraian and Dr. Erin Mikulec
State Farm Hall of Business 133
Do you enjoy travel, exploring the world, and learning new things? There are a lot of opportunities to internationalize your education while becoming a teacher at Illinois State University. This session will introduce you to some of the ways students are doing study abroad experiences during their teacher education sequence.

Introduction to Civic Engagement - Annie Weaver and Katy Strzepek
State Farm Hall of Business 145
What is civic engagement? Learn about this strategy for change and how teachers can integrate civic engagement.

Is Brown to Blame? Where Did the Black Teachers Go and How Do We Get Them Back? - Brandon Thornton and Jen Brooks
DeGarmo 305
This session will discuss the Black teacher shortage by linking it to the systemic (i.e., legal, social, political, historical) barriers and obstacles faced while attempting to enter the field. In addition,this talk will contain discourse around the fidelity of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives as well as encourage students to be change agents as they prepare to become future teachers. High school students will be encouraged to reflect and implement an action plan that shapes a better future for our youth of color.

Listening Circles - Kevin Jones
Fairchild Hall 301
With roots in indigenous cultures around the world, listening circles provide people an opportunity to speak and listen to each other in an  atmosphere of safety, decorum, and equality. To help people gain a shared sense of understanding and emotional connection, these circles can be used in communities, schools, organizations, and families.You will participate in a listening circle on a current topic and you will learn to facilitate listening circles for any topic your community requires. 

Mindfulness - Danica Mathis
Schroeder 246 
This session will discuss the benefits of Mindfulness and its impact on both teachers and students. There is more to Mindfulness than being present and aware of your thoughts. You will learn several ways to utilize Mindfulness for students. You will be given ways to create a positive classroom environment, promote positive student behavior, and maintain a positive and successful school year.

Practicing Our Humanity: Beyond Cancel Culture to Civil Conversations - Rebekah Hoffman, Shannon Maney-Magnuson, and Amy Reiman
DeGarmo 209
We have all experienced the negative impacts of outrage culture on our conversations online and in person. As future educators, you will play an important role in facilitating classroom conversations that bring more voices to the table and in helping your students acquire the listening skills to engage with ideas they may disagree with. In this session, we will explore the ways in which cancel culture appeals to the human brain, but we will also examine strategies for pursuing civil conversation in the classroom and in the world at large.

Prepare Now to land Your Dream Teaching Job Later - Kristal Shelvin, Monica Wilks and Sherri Thomas
DeGarmo 306
Future teachers will learn tips and tricks to take advantage of targeted opportunities during college.  The goal is to prepare strong applicants for future openings.

Student Panel
DeGarmo 208
Are you interested in hearing from the current Illinois State University education majors? Come have a dialogue with a panel of students to learn about their experiences on campus. The panel will be comprised of a variety of majors and there will be plenty of time to ask questions and learn about ways to get involved as an education major.

Teaching High School - Dr. Ryan Brown
State Farm Hall of Business 135
Learn about subject areas and extracurricular opportunities.

Tech Playground
DeGarmo 307
Join us in Studio Teach, a studio space for hands-on learning to explore the possibilities of learning through making. There is space to design, tinker, and build for tomorrow's learners using an array of high- and low-tech devices and supplies.

To Education and Beyond - Molly Dunne
Schroeder 215
In education, we speak many acronyms- LBS, TVI, OT, SLP, ESP, and more. In this session, we will share the many different roles in education and talk about how each supports students to become their highest and best selves. Come learn how to be a teacher and beyond!

Understanding Trauma in the Classroom - Kirsten Hany
DeGarmo 206
This session will focus on trauma and trauma-informed practices in the middle school and high school classroom. This includes understanding the complex nature of trauma and its effects on students both behaviorally and academically. It will also include practical advice on relationship building and curating a trauma informed classroom.

Admissions and Financial Aid: How Do I Get in? And How Do I Pay for it? - ISU Admissions and Financial Aid
Schroeder 211
Session will cover ISU admission and financial aid process, including grants for future teachers.

Be a STEM Superhero - Mandy White
DeGarmo 52
Become a STEM superhero as you learn how to incorporate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into your teaching. We will look at how Next Generation Science Standards and Practices lay the foundation for guiding students through STEM challenges.  Learn ways to engage elementary learners in engineering experiences and fostering problem-solving.

Brain-Based Social Emotional Learning: Teaching and Learning with the Whole Child in Mind - Abby Lyons
DeGarmo Area 21
Every student comes to school with a different experience of the world. In this session, we will explore Social Emotional Learning through a brain-based lens to make sense of the ways we can create supportive environments for all students.

Diversity Matters
DeGarmo 551
Diversity and Inclusion are core values at Illinois State University. Join students and faculty mentors for a panel discussion about how diversity is celebrated. Participants will learn about student organizations and other community groups related to diversity, advocacy, and service.
In-session resource

Endorsement Basics - Troy Hinkel
State Farm Hall of Business 132
Are you wondering how endorsements work and what endorsements you can earn? Learn about licensing, endorsements, and hear about a few of the most in-demand areas of education.

Cultivating Your Teacher Identity - Patricia Valente
State Farm Hall of Business 147
You are never too young to walk in your calling as a teacher. This session will inspire you to continue to cultivate your teacher identity through interactive reflection on the experiences that draws you to teach.

Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Student Teaching
DeGarmo 206
Join student teachers and university student teaching supervisors for a panel discussion on what to expect during the student teaching experience. They will discuss the joys, excitement, challenges, and opportunities for growth provided by this capstone to the teacher education program.

Identify Your Impact - Jennifer Panganiban
Fairchild Hall 203
We will talk about your personal “why” for teaching and how having that “why” can drive the passion that builds a great teacher. We will also discuss some of the key characteristics of teachers and the impact you, as a future teacher, can have on the world.

International Teaching - Dr. Monica Noraian and Dr. Erin Mikulec
State Farm Hall of Business 133
Do you enjoy travel, exploring the world, and learning new things? There are a lot of opportunities to internationalize your education while becoming a teacher at Illinois State University. This session will introduce you to some of the ways students are doing study abroad experiences during their teacher education sequence.

Introduction to Civic Engagement - Annie Weaver and Katy Strzepek
State Farm Hall of Business 145
What is civic engagement? Learn about this strategy for change and how teachers can integrate civic engagement.

Is Brown to Blame? Where Did the Black Teachers Go and How Do We Get Them Back? - Brandon Thornton and Jen Brooks
DeGarmo 305
This session will discuss the Black teacher shortage by linking it to the systemic (i.e., legal, social, political, historical) barriers and obstacles faced while attempting to enter the field. In addition,this talk will contain discourse around the fidelity of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives as well as encourage students to be change agents as they prepare to become future teachers. High school students will be encouraged to reflect and implement an action plan that shapes a better future for our youth of color.

Listening Circles - Kevin Jones
Fairchild Hall 301
With roots in indigenous cultures around the world, listening circles provide people an opportunity to speak and listen to each other in an  atmosphere of safety, decorum, and equality. To help people gain a shared sense of understanding and emotional connection, these circles can be used in communities, schools, organizations, and families.You will participate in a listening circle on a current topic and you will learn to facilitate listening circles for any topic your community requires. 

Mindfulness - Danica Mathis
Schroeder 246 
This session will discuss the benefits of Mindfulness and its impact on both teachers and students. There is more to Mindfulness than being present and aware of your thoughts. You will learn several ways to utilize Mindfulness for students. You will be given ways to create a positive classroom environment, promote positive student behavior, and maintain a positive and successful school year.

Practicing Our Humanity: Beyond Cancel Culture to Civil Conversations - Rebekah Hoffman, Shannon Maney-Magnuson, and Amy Reiman
DeGarmo 209
We have all experienced the negative impacts of outrage culture on our conversations online and in person. As future educators, you will play an important role in facilitating classroom conversations that bring more voices to the table and in helping your students acquire the listening skills to engage with ideas they may disagree with. In this session, we will explore the ways in which cancel culture appeals to the human brain, but we will also examine strategies for pursuing civil conversation in the classroom and in the world at large.

Prepare Now to land Your Dream Teaching Job Later - Kristal Shelvin, Monica Wilks and Sherri Thomas
DeGarmo 306
Future teachers will learn tips and tricks to take advantage of targeted opportunities during college.  The goal is to prepare strong applicants for future openings.

Student Panel
DeGarmo 208
Are you interested in hearing from the current Illinois State University education majors? Come have a dialogue with a panel of students to learn about their experiences on campus. The panel will be comprised of a variety of majors and there will be plenty of time to ask questions and learn about ways to get involved as an education major.

Teaching High School - Dr. Ryan Brown
State Farm Hall of Business 135
Learn about subject areas and extracurricular opportunities.

Tech Playground
DeGarmo 307
Join us in Studio Teach, a studio space for hands-on learning to explore the possibilities of learning through making. There is space to design, tinker, and build for tomorrow's learners using an array of high- and low-tech devices and supplies.

To Education and Beyond - Molly Dunne
Schroeder 215
In education, we speak many acronyms- LBS, TVI, OT, SLP, ESP, and more. In this session, we will share the many different roles in education and talk about how each supports students to become their highest and best selves. Come learn how to be a teacher and beyond!

Understanding Trauma in the Classroom - Kirsten Hany
State Farm Hall of Business 131
This session will focus on trauma and trauma-informed practices in the middle school and high school classroom. This includes understanding the complex nature of trauma and its effects on students both behaviorally and academically. It will also include practical advice on relationship building and curating a trauma informed classroom.

Student ambassadors will lead a 60 minute campus tour. The chaperone must sign up for this option on the registration form.