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2025 Pretzel Winter Institute
Welcome to the 2025 Pretzel Winter Institute! Please select sessions appropriate to your role! Most sessions will be held at Freeport Middle School and Freeport High School while a few will be at Empire Elementary School and Lincoln-Douglas Elementary School. Remember to check session descriptions the night before the Institute to confirm times and locations. If you have any questions, please contact Alex T. Valencic, our Professional Learning Coordinator, at alex.valencic@fsd145.org. Thank you!
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Wednesday, January 22
 

7:00am CST

TEST FULL
Wednesday January 22, 2025 7:00am - 7:15am CST
FMS Room 200 / Curriculum Office
TEST
Speakers
avatar for Alex T. Valencic (Test)

Alex T. Valencic (Test)

Professional Learning Coordinator, Freeport School District 145
Alex T. Valencic is an educator, former small business owner, Boy Scout leader, volunteer drug prevention specialist, and geek of all things. Alex has worked as a substitute teacher, fourth grade teacher, and curriculum coordinator. Since July 2021, he has been serving as the Professional... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 7:00am - 7:15am CST
FMS Room 200 / Curriculum Office

9:30am CST

6-12 Social Studies Curriculum Review & Planning, Part 1 of 2 for SOCIAL STUDIES CURRICULUM COMMITTEE MEMBERS FULL
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 210 / Crawford
Collaborate with colleagues to review and refine the social studies curriculum, ensuring alignment with standards and student needs.
Speakers
avatar for Julia Cloat

Julia Cloat

Assoc Superintendent Of Curriculum & Instruction, District
Dr. Julia Stearns Cloat is an author and educator who has dedicated her professional career to public schools and the development and continuous improvement of teachers. She began her career as an elementary school teacher and has since served in a variety of roles including Literacy... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 210 / Crawford
  Curriculum & Instruction

9:30am CST

Developing a Standards-Based Driver's Education Curriculum, Part 1 of 4 for DRIVER'S EDUCATION TEACHERS FULL
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FHS Room 101 / Driver's Ed
Collaboratively design a comprehensive, standards-aligned curriculum for driver’s education, integrating best practices and practical applications. Must attend all four sessions to receive credit.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Whitham

Elizabeth Whitham

Drivers Education, Freeport High School
avatar for Seth Heitter

Seth Heitter

Drivers Education, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FHS Room 101 / Driver's Ed
  Curriculum & Instruction

9:30am CST

Make 'n Take Literacy Workshop for 4TH & 5TH GRADE TEACHERS FULL
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 145 / Rahm
Create hands-on literacy resources tailored to the needs of your grade level, 4th and 5th grade, to engage and empower young readers.
Activities will include :
Roll and write Vocabulary
Common and Proper Nouns
Inference Riddles
Prefix/Suffix - Build a word
Add an Adjective 
Speakers
avatar for Anna Nesbitt

Anna Nesbitt

MTSS Reading Support Specialist, Freeport School District #145
I have taught in the Freeport school district for 24 years. I have taught fifth grade, sixth grade, third grade, and I am currently a reading specialist at Blackhawk elementary.
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 145 / Rahm
  Curriculum & Instruction

9:30am CST

WICORizing Your Lesson Plans for 7-12 TEACHERS FULL
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 231 / AVID Center
Through collaborative planning exercises, real-world examples, and reflective discussions, participants will learn how to seamlessly incorporate WICOR (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Inqury, and Reading) strategies into various subjects at the middle and secondary level. By the end of the workshop, educators will have a toolkit of innovative approaches to enhance their curriculum, support diverse learners, and foster a more interactive and inquiry-based learning environment. Attendees should bring a copy of a lesson they will be teaching in the near future that they can WICORize during this session.
Speakers
avatar for Jalen Dunbar

Jalen Dunbar

Dean, Freeport Middle School
avatar for Nikki Wheeler

Nikki Wheeler

MTSS Facilitator, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 231 / AVID Center
  Curriculum & Instruction

9:30am CST

Empowering Classrooms Through Trauma-informed Teaching for ALL STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FHS Room 132 / Barteldt
Discuss practical ways to support students by exploring what trauma-informed pedagogy looks like in action. We'll dive into the 'Four R's' of trauma-informed practices—Realize, Recognize, Respond, and Resist Re-traumatization—and discuss easy-to-implement strategies to create a safe, supportive learning environment. Leave with clear, actionable steps to make your classroom a space where students can thrive!
Speakers
avatar for Britney Kieselhorst

Britney Kieselhorst

FHS Choral Director, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FHS Room 132 / Barteldt
  Equity & Curriculum

9:30am CST

Existence as Resistance: Protecting LGBTQ+ People in Uncertain Times for 5-12 STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 143 / Buchmann
"Existence as Resistance" is more than a title—it’s a call to action for educators who wish to protect LGBTQ+ students and staff in today’s complex political landscape. Led by one of district's few Queer and Transgender educator, this session will provide concrete methods and resources for creating safe, inclusive spaces, navigating legal frameworks, and empowering our schools to be havens for all identities.
Speakers
avatar for Brett Wilson

Brett Wilson

Foundations, Freeport Middle School
SB

Sarah Buchmann

ELA, Freeport Middle School
HR

Hex Rahm

8th grade Social Studies Teacher, Freeport Middle School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 143 / Buchmann
  Equity & Curriculum

9:30am CST

Growth Mindset: Kicking 'Smart' to the Curb for EC-6 STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 136 / Health Room
How do we stop academically trapping our students...QUIT using the word 'smart'! Growth Mindset, Resilience, Perseverance, Grit: These are all words we keep hearing, but how do we, as educators, put into practice strategies that will help cultivate a Growth Mindset for our students, which in turn, fosters a development of Grit, Resilience, & Perseverance? In this session, you will learn practical classroom tools you can use with your students to enhance how you teach in a way that is equitable for all students; no matter their grade level or ability.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Dorty

Michelle Dorty

MTSS Facilitator, Blackhawk Elementary School
avatar for Rosemarie Brubaker

Rosemarie Brubaker

MTSS Facilitator, Freeport Middle School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 136 / Health Room
  Inclusion & Supports

9:30am CST

Designing Dynamic Learning Experiences with Canva and Schoology for ALL STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room Room 148 / Staff Lounge
This session will explore how to leverage Canva and Schoology to create engaging and visually appealing learning experiences for secondary students. Learn how to design stunning presentations, interactive activities, and visually appealing assignments using Canva. Discover how to integrate Canva designs seamlessly into Schoology courses to enhance student engagement and understanding. We will delve into practical tips, time-saving techniques, and best practices to maximize the potential of these powerful tools. By the end of this session, you will be equipped to create dynamic and visually stimulating learning environments that captivate your students and elevate the learning experience.
Speakers
avatar for Brian Krause

Brian Krause

Instructional Technology Coach (FSD145), Learning Technology Center
Brian Krause serves as an Instructional Technology Coach with the Learning Technology Center of Illinois. As part of his work with the LTC, Brian has partnered with FSD145 to serve the faculty and staff to better their use of technology in the classroom.
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room Room 148 / Staff Lounge
  Technology & Innovation

9:30am CST

Reimagining Education: Designing Learning for Today's World for ALL STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 228 / Evans
Join us for an interactive session exploring innovative approaches to teaching and learning in the 21st century. While our current educational model has remained largely unchanged for 150 years, today's world demands new ways of thinking about how we structure learning experiences. In this collaborative workshop, participants will engage in dynamic conversations and hands-on activities to envision fresh possibilities for classroom design, scheduling, student grouping, and instructional delivery.This session invites both self-selected participants and educators who have demonstrated interest in educational innovation through their previous work. Together, we'll challenge traditional assumptions about schooling and generate creative solutions for the future of education. Participants will:• Examine current classroom and school structures through a critical lens• Share innovative practices and ideas from their own experiences• Collaborate with colleagues to imagine new possibilities for learning spaces and experiences• Consider how modern tools and understanding of learning could reshape educational environments• Explore potential pilot programs and experimental approachesThe session will be offered both morning and afternoon to accommodate scheduling needs. This workshop may serve as a launching point for an ongoing task force dedicated to researching, testing, and implementing promising ideas for educational redesign.Whether you're curious about alternative approaches to education or already experimenting with innovative practices, this session provides a space to think boldly about transforming learning for today's students.
Speakers
avatar for Susan Fumo

Susan Fumo

Asst. Superintendent Of Human, District
I'm the Assistant Superintendent of HR in FSD145.  I've been here for a year now and I love it!  I taught High School English for 10 years in Illinois, North Carolina, and Michigan.  I've also worked as a school and district administrator for the past 12 years.  I live in Rockford... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FMS Room 228 / Evans
  Technology & Innovation

9:30am CST

Telling Our Stories in Person and Online for SECRETARIES LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FHS Room 130 / College & Career Center
Develop skills to effectively share your school’s story and build community connections through in-person and digital platforms with the newly-published FSD 145 Communications Guide!
Speakers
avatar for Paulette Williams-Thomas

Paulette Williams-Thomas

Director of Communications, District
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am CST
FHS Room 130 / College & Career Center
  Technology & Innovation

9:30am CST

CPI Verbal Interventions for ALL STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 3:30pm CST
Carl Sandburg Library
Learn how to de-escalate student behaviors in a way that is both respectful and responsive to past traumatic experiences. Skills learned in this session can also be used to create a welcoming classroom environment.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Everding

Paul Everding

Social Studies, Freeport Alternative High School
I have been teaching in Freeport since 1994, with the exception of two years in Forreston from 2008-2010. Since 2010 I have been teaching at Freeport Alternative High School and have been a certified CPI instructor for FSD145 since 2014. Until stepping aside from all coaching in 2021... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 9:30am - 3:30pm CST
Carl Sandburg Library 1717 West Eby Street, Freeport, IL, USA
  Inclusion & Supports

10:45am CST

Developing a Standards-Based Driver's Education Curriculum, Part 2 of 4 for DRIVER'S EDUCATION TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FHS Room 101 / Driver's Ed
Collaboratively design a comprehensive, standards-aligned curriculum for driver’s education, integrating best practices and practical applications. Must attend all four sessions to receive credit.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Whitham

Elizabeth Whitham

Drivers Education, Freeport High School
avatar for Seth Heitter

Seth Heitter

Drivers Education, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FHS Room 101 / Driver's Ed
  Curriculum & Instruction

10:45am CST

Focused Note-Taking in the Middle and Secondary Classroom for 7-12 NEW TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 210 / Crawford
Master note-taking techniques to improve student comprehension, retention, and critical thinking in grades 7–12.
Speakers
avatar for Cheri Crawford

Cheri Crawford

Social Studies, Freeport Middle School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 210 / Crawford
  Curriculum & Instruction

10:45am CST

Make 'n Take Literacy Workshop for 2ND & 3RD GRADE TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 145 / Rahm
Create hands-on literacy resources tailored to the needs of your grade level, 2nd to 3rd grade , to engage and empower young readers.
Activities will include :
Roll and Read sentences
Contraction Match Game
Add and adjective
Roll and Write vocabulary
Common and Proper Noun puzzles 
Speakers
avatar for Anna Nesbitt

Anna Nesbitt

MTSS Reading Support Specialist, Freeport School District #145
I have taught in the Freeport school district for 24 years. I have taught fifth grade, sixth grade, third grade, and I am currently a reading specialist at Blackhawk elementary.
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 145 / Rahm
  Curriculum & Instruction

10:45am CST

WICORizing Your Lesson Plans for K-6 TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 231 / AVID Center
Through collaborative planning exercises, real-world examples, and reflective discussions, participants will learn how to seamlessly incorporate WICOR (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Inqury, and Reading) strategies into various subjects at the elementary level. By the end of the workshop, educators will have a toolkit of innovative approaches to enhance their curriculum, support diverse learners, and foster a more interactive and inquiry-based learning environment. Attendees should bring a copy of a lesson they will be teaching in the near future that they can WICORize during this session.
Speakers
avatar for Michele Downing

Michele Downing

Grade 3 HAPP, Center Elementary School
avatar for Stephanie Perkins

Stephanie Perkins

Grade 4 HAPP, Center Elementary School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 231 / AVID Center
  Curriculum & Instruction

10:45am CST

Mastering the Gen Z Classroom: Strategies for Success for 5-12 TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 143 / Buchmann
I will be outlining the challenges of working with our Gen Z / Gen Alpha students, and providing ideas on how to connect with those students rather than working "against" them.
Speakers
SB

Sarah Buchmann

ELA, Freeport Middle School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 143 / Buchmann
  Equity & Curriculum

10:45am CST

Growth Mindset: Kicking 'Smart' to the Curb for 7-12 STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 136 / Health Room
How do we stop academically trapping our students...QUIT using the word 'smart'! Growth Mindset, Resilience, Perseverance, Grit: These are all words we keep hearing, but how do we, as educators, put into practice strategies that will help cultivate a Growth Mindset for our students, which in turn, fosters a development of Grit, Resilience, & Perseverance? In this session, you will learn practical classroom tools you can use with your students to enhance how you teach in a way that is equitable for all students; no matter their grade level or ability.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Dorty

Michelle Dorty

MTSS Facilitator, Blackhawk Elementary School
avatar for Rosemarie Brubaker

Rosemarie Brubaker

MTSS Facilitator, Freeport Middle School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 136 / Health Room
  Inclusion & Supports

10:45am CST

Delving Deep into the Mines of Moria -- Er, Rather, Skyward for SECRETARIES LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FHS Room 130 / College & Career Center
Digging deep into Skyward doesn't have to be scary! Expand your proficiency with Skyward’s tools to streamline school operations and support staff and student needs.
Speakers
avatar for Jon Davidson

Jon Davidson

DBA/Data Analyst, Freeport SD 145
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FHS Room 130 / College & Career Center
  Technology & Innovation

10:45am CST

Optimizing Teacher Workflow: Leveraging Digital Tools for Organization and Productivity for ALL STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room Room 148 / Staff Lounge
This session will explore practical strategies and digital tools to help K-12 teachers streamline their workflow, enhance time management, and boost overall productivity. Learn how to effectively utilize tools like Google Calendar, Tasks, and task management apps to organize your schedule, prioritize tasks, and reduce stress. Discover time-saving tips for managing email, grading assignments, and communicating with parents. By the end of this session, you will be equipped to optimize your work-life balance and create a more efficient and fulfilling teaching experience.
Speakers
avatar for Brian Krause

Brian Krause

Instructional Technology Coach (FSD145), Learning Technology Center
Brian Krause serves as an Instructional Technology Coach with the Learning Technology Center of Illinois. As part of his work with the LTC, Brian has partnered with FSD145 to serve the faculty and staff to better their use of technology in the classroom.
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room Room 148 / Staff Lounge
  Technology & Innovation

10:45am CST

Using Toddle the IB Way for JONES-FARRAR TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 228 / Evans
Enhance your understanding of Toddle as an IB teaching tool to streamline planning and assessment.
Speakers
avatar for Georgia Mathis

Georgia Mathis

Director of Curriculum & Instruction, District
LM

Liberty Madigan

Jones-Farrar, an IB World School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am CST
FMS Room 228 / Evans
  Technology & Innovation

10:45am CST

Empowering Affinity Groups To Bring about Change for AFFINITY GROUP MEMBERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 12:45pm CST
FMS Conference Center
Learn strategies to strengthen affinity groups and leverage their collective power to drive meaningful change and foster inclusion within your school community.
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Jackson

Danielle Jackson

School Counselor, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 10:45am - 12:45pm CST
FMS Conference Center
  Equity & Curriculum

11:45am CST

Grow Our Own Program Luncheon for GROW OUR OWN PARTICIPANTS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 11:45am - 12:45pm CST
FHS Senior Cafeteria
Join current and past Grow Our Own Program participants for a casual luncheon with Susan Fumo and reflect on the successes and challenges of teaching, learning, and growing in FSD 145!
Speakers
avatar for Susan Fumo

Susan Fumo

Asst. Superintendent Of Human, District
I'm the Assistant Superintendent of HR in FSD145.  I've been here for a year now and I love it!  I taught High School English for 10 years in Illinois, North Carolina, and Michigan.  I've also worked as a school and district administrator for the past 12 years.  I live in Rockford... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 11:45am - 12:45pm CST
FHS Senior Cafeteria
  Inclusion & Supports

1:00pm CST

Developing a Standards-Based Driver's Education Curriculum, Part 3 of 4 for DRIVER'S EDUCATION TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FHS Room 101 / Driver's Ed
Collaboratively design a comprehensive, standards-aligned curriculum for driver’s education, integrating best practices and practical applications. Must attend all four sessions to receive credit.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Whitham

Elizabeth Whitham

Drivers Education, Freeport High School
avatar for Seth Heitter

Seth Heitter

Drivers Education, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FHS Room 101 / Driver's Ed
  Curriculum & Instruction

1:00pm CST

Inquiry: 3 Things You Can Do Right Now for EC-6 TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 231 / AVID Center
This module is designed to give elementary teachers a better understanding of three strategies (KWLA graphic organizer, Costa’s Levels of Thinking, and Philosophical Chairs) that they can implement right now to expand the use of inquiry within their elementary classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Georgia Mathis

Georgia Mathis

Director of Curriculum & Instruction, District
avatar for Hannah Curran

Hannah Curran

Grade 3, Lincoln-Douglas Elementary School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 231 / AVID Center
  Curriculum & Instruction

1:00pm CST

Interactive Notebooks in the Middle and Secondary Classroom for 7-12 TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 150 / K. Smith
Learn how to implement interactive notebooks to support student organization, engagement, and content mastery.
Speakers
avatar for Katrina Smith

Katrina Smith

Science, Freeport Middle School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 150 / K. Smith
  Curriculum & Instruction

1:00pm CST

Make 'n Take Literacy Workshop for 1ST GRADE TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 145 / Rahm
Create hands-on literacy resources tailored to the needs of 1st graders to engage and empower young readers.
Activities will include:
Write the Room- Spring Theme
Roll and Read
Fidget spinner challenge 
Speakers
avatar for Anna Nesbitt

Anna Nesbitt

MTSS Reading Support Specialist, Freeport School District #145
I have taught in the Freeport school district for 24 years. I have taught fifth grade, sixth grade, third grade, and I am currently a reading specialist at Blackhawk elementary.
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 145 / Rahm
  Curriculum & Instruction

1:00pm CST

Mentoring Check-In and Supports for NEW TEACHER MENTORS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 210 / Crawford
Engage in a reflective session to enhance your mentoring practices and gain targeted supports to empower new teachers in their roles.
Speakers
avatar for Tiffany Kleckler

Tiffany Kleckler

MTSS Facilitator, Center Elementary School
avatar for Jaclyn Boomgarden

Jaclyn Boomgarden

Grade 4, Empire Elementary School
avatar for Cheri Crawford

Cheri Crawford

Social Studies, Freeport Middle School
MG

Melissa Geiser

HR Assistant, Freeport SD 145
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 210 / Crawford
  Equity & Curriculum

1:00pm CST

Designing and Delivering High-Quality Practical Applications in a Cross Categorical Classroom, Part 1 of 2 for PACC TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 111 / Gallie
Learn strategies to design engaging and meaningful learning experiences for students in the PACC classroom as we seek to answer the question, "What are the vision, mission, and core values of PACC, anyway?" Must attend both sessions to receive credit.
Speakers
SW

Susan Waughon

Assist. Director of Pupil Personnel Services, District
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room 111 / Gallie
  Inclusion & Supports

1:00pm CST

Ethical Practices and Practical Applications of Generative AI in Social Work for SOCIAL WORKERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FHS Social Work Office
This workshop will guide social workers through the integration of Generative AI tools into social work practice. Participants will examine ethical considerations, develop strategies for incorporating Generative AI responsibly, and engage in hands-on activities to integrate Generative AI tools into practice. The aim is to empower social workers with the competence to leverage AI technology effectively while upholding professional and ethical standards. LEARNING OBJECTIVES 1) Participants will identify and recall key features and capabilities of Generative AI and their relevance to social work practice. 2) Participants will understand how Generative AI can be applied to social work. 3) Participants will critique the ethical implications of using Generative AI in practice, including issues related to confidentiality, client privacy, and potential biases in AI-generated content. 4) Participants will assess the appropriateness and limitations of incorporating Generative AI into various social work scenarios. 5) Participants will actively engage with Generative AI tools to create practical outputs such as resource referrals and psychoeducation materials relevant to social work practice.
Speakers
avatar for Donna Reel

Donna Reel

Social Worker, Freeport School District #145
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FHS Social Work Office
  Inclusion & Supports

1:00pm CST

Teaching World Languages with the Five Senses for WORLD LANGUAGE TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FHS Room 106 / Tolu-Honary
xplore innovative techniques for engaging students in world language learning through sensory-rich experiences.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Tolu-Honary

Amy Tolu-Honary

German, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FHS Room 106 / Tolu-Honary
  Language & Culture

1:00pm CST

Designing Dynamic Learning Experiences with Canva and Schoology for ALL STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room Room 148 / Staff Lounge
This session will explore how to leverage Canva and Schoology to create engaging and visually appealing learning experiences for secondary students. Learn how to design stunning presentations, interactive activities, and visually appealing assignments using Canva. Discover how to integrate Canva designs seamlessly into Schoology courses to enhance student engagement and understanding. We will delve into practical tips, time-saving techniques, and best practices to maximize the potential of these powerful tools. By the end of this session, you will be equipped to create dynamic and visually stimulating learning environments that captivate your students and elevate the learning experience.
Speakers
avatar for Brian Krause

Brian Krause

Instructional Technology Coach (FSD145), Learning Technology Center
Brian Krause serves as an Instructional Technology Coach with the Learning Technology Center of Illinois. As part of his work with the LTC, Brian has partnered with FSD145 to serve the faculty and staff to better their use of technology in the classroom.
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FMS Room Room 148 / Staff Lounge
  Technology & Innovation

1:00pm CST

Skyward Training for NURSES LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FHS Room 130 / College & Career Center
Learn to optimize Skyward’s features for managing student health records and reporting requirements.
Speakers
avatar for Jon Davidson

Jon Davidson

DBA/Data Analyst, Freeport SD 145
Wednesday January 22, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm CST
FHS Room 130 / College & Career Center
  Technology & Innovation

2:15pm CST

6-12 Social Studies Curriculum Review & Planning, Part 2 of 2 for SOCIAL STUDIES CURRICULUM COMMITTEE MEMBERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 210 / Crawford
Collaborate with colleagues to review and refine the social studies curriculum, ensuring alignment with standards and student needs.
Speakers
avatar for Julia Cloat

Julia Cloat

Assoc Superintendent Of Curriculum & Instruction, District
Dr. Julia Stearns Cloat is an author and educator who has dedicated her professional career to public schools and the development and continuous improvement of teachers. She began her career as an elementary school teacher and has since served in a variety of roles including Literacy... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 210 / Crawford
  Curriculum & Instruction

2:15pm CST

Developing a Standards-Based Driver's Education Curriculum, Part 4 of 4 for DRIVER'S EDUCATION TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Room 101 / Driver's Ed
Collaboratively design a comprehensive, standards-aligned curriculum for driver’s education, integrating best practices and practical applications. Must attend all four sessions to receive credit.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Whitham

Elizabeth Whitham

Drivers Education, Freeport High School
avatar for Seth Heitter

Seth Heitter

Drivers Education, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Room 101 / Driver's Ed
  Curriculum & Instruction

2:15pm CST

Inquiry: 3 Things You Can Do Right Now for 7-12 TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 231 / AVID Center
This module is designed to give teachers a better understanding of three strategies (KWLA graphic organizer, Costa’s Levels of Thinking, and Philosophical Chairs) that they can implement right now to expand the use of inquiry within their secondary classrooms.
Speakers
avatar for Christy Evans

Christy Evans

Instructional Facilitator/AVID, Freeport High School
avatar for Thedford Jackson

Thedford Jackson

College & Career Advisor, Freeport School District #145
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 231 / AVID Center
  Curriculum & Instruction

2:15pm CST

K-12 PE Curriculum Review Debrief for PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Room 219 / Calow
Participate in this session to analyze and evaluate the SPARK, Athlos, and PLT4M physical education curricula.
Speakers
avatar for Shaun Dascher

Shaun Dascher

Physical Education, Freeport High School
avatar for Ryan Balsiger

Ryan Balsiger

Physical Education, Freeport Middle School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Room 219 / Calow
  Curriculum & Instruction

2:15pm CST

Make 'n Take Literacy Workshop for EARLY CHILDHOOD AND KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 145 / Rahm
Create hands-on literacy resources tailored to the needs of your grade level, from Early Childhood and Kindergarten , to engage and empower young readers.
Activities will include :
Write the Room - Spring Theme
ABC popsicle sticks
Fidget Spinner Challenge
Match the Beginning sound
Speakers
avatar for Anna Nesbitt

Anna Nesbitt

MTSS Reading Support Specialist, Freeport School District #145
I have taught in the Freeport school district for 24 years. I have taught fifth grade, sixth grade, third grade, and I am currently a reading specialist at Blackhawk elementary.
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 145 / Rahm
  Curriculum & Instruction

2:15pm CST

Designing and Delivering High-Quality Practical Applications in a Cross Categorical Classroom, Part 2 of 2 for PACC TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 111 / Gallie
Learn strategies to design engaging and meaningful learning experiences for students in the PACC classroom as we seek to answer the question, "What are the vision, mission, and core values of PACC, anyway?" Must attend both sessions to receive credit.
Speakers
SW

Susan Waughon

Assist. Director of Pupil Personnel Services, District
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 111 / Gallie
  Inclusion & Supports

2:15pm CST

Developing Social Work Interventions for FBA/BIP's LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Social Work Office
Identifying common functions of behavior and intervention tools for social workers
Speakers
avatar for Mikala Grable

Mikala Grable

Social Worker, Center Elementary School
avatar for Amy Larson

Amy Larson

Social Worker, Freeport High School
This is my 19th year being a school social worker (15th with FSD #145). I am a licensed mental health professional with my LCSW (clinical social worker). 
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Social Work Office
  Inclusion & Supports

2:15pm CST

Assessment through the Art of Education University for ART TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Room 201 / Setterstrom
Delve into innovative art assessment methods that support student growth and creativity.
Speakers
DS

Danelle Setterstrom

Art, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Room 201 / Setterstrom
  Technology & Innovation

2:15pm CST

Enhancing Music Education through Technology for MUSIC TEACHERS LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Room 130 / College & Career Center
Discover technology tools to enrich music instruction and foster student creativity in the classroom.
Speakers
avatar for Bill Petersen

Bill Petersen

Band Director, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FHS Room 130 / College & Career Center
  Technology & Innovation

2:15pm CST

Experiential Learning in the Freeport Student Garden for ALL STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 155 / Skipor
Come learn about field trip opportunities in the Freeport Student Garden. Your students can apply what they have been learning in any STEM content and more! We'll talk about all of the steps needed for planning a field trip, how to prepare students, and outline each of the opportunities we offer.
Speakers
avatar for Ben Skipor

Ben Skipor

Freshman Academy Teacher, Freeport High School
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 155 / Skipor
  Technology & Innovation

2:15pm CST

Optimizing Teacher Workflow: Leveraging Digital Tools for Organization and Productivity for ALL STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room Room 148 / Staff Lounge
This session will explore practical strategies and digital tools to help K-12 teachers streamline their workflow, enhance time management, and boost overall productivity. Learn how to effectively utilize tools like Google Calendar, Tasks, and task management apps to organize your schedule, prioritize tasks, and reduce stress. Discover time-saving tips for managing email, grading assignments, and communicating with parents. By the end of this session, you will be equipped to optimize your work-life balance and create a more efficient and fulfilling teaching experience.
Speakers
avatar for Brian Krause

Brian Krause

Instructional Technology Coach (FSD145), Learning Technology Center
Brian Krause serves as an Instructional Technology Coach with the Learning Technology Center of Illinois. As part of his work with the LTC, Brian has partnered with FSD145 to serve the faculty and staff to better their use of technology in the classroom.
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room Room 148 / Staff Lounge
  Technology & Innovation

2:15pm CST

Reimagining Education: Designing Learning for Today's World for ALL STAFF LIMITED
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 228 / Evans
Join us for an interactive session exploring innovative approaches to teaching and learning in the 21st century. While our current educational model has remained largely unchanged for 150 years, today's world demands new ways of thinking about how we structure learning experiences. In this collaborative workshop, participants will engage in dynamic conversations and hands-on activities to envision fresh possibilities for classroom design, scheduling, student grouping, and instructional delivery.This session invites both self-selected participants and educators who have demonstrated interest in educational innovation through their previous work. Together, we'll challenge traditional assumptions about schooling and generate creative solutions for the future of education. Participants will:• Examine current classroom and school structures through a critical lens• Share innovative practices and ideas from their own experiences• Collaborate with colleagues to imagine new possibilities for learning spaces and experiences• Consider how modern tools and understanding of learning could reshape educational environments• Explore potential pilot programs and experimental approachesThe session will be offered both morning and afternoon to accommodate scheduling needs. This workshop may serve as a launching point for an ongoing task force dedicated to researching, testing, and implementing promising ideas for educational redesign.Whether you're curious about alternative approaches to education or already experimenting with innovative practices, this session provides a space to think boldly about transforming learning for today's students.
Speakers
avatar for Susan Fumo

Susan Fumo

Asst. Superintendent Of Human, District
I'm the Assistant Superintendent of HR in FSD145.  I've been here for a year now and I love it!  I taught High School English for 10 years in Illinois, North Carolina, and Michigan.  I've also worked as a school and district administrator for the past 12 years.  I live in Rockford... Read More →
Wednesday January 22, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm CST
FMS Room 228 / Evans
  Technology & Innovation
 
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