MTSS Integrated Conference &#x27;26

As school systems increasingly embrace time-based progress monitoring metrics, classroom practices for building fluency are either absent or very limited. Enter Precision Teaching (PT), a system for building and measuring fluency across skills with a rich history of producing significant students outcomes. This presentation will describe how PT is an ideal fit for MTSS systems, as it allows for the correct dosage of deliberate, timed practice across different tiers for different learners.

Speakers

Andrew Kieta

Executive Director, Morningside Academy

Andrew is Morningside’s Executive Director. He’s been with Morningside for 10 years, first as a trainer with Morningside Teachers’ Academy partner schools in Hawaii and then as Associate Director of Morningside Academy since 2017.

He received his B.A. in Public Affairs Journalism from The Ohio State University in 2007 but after a summer at Morningside’s Summer School Institute, turned towards Generative Instruction. He first started teaching middle school but quickly expanded to working with a wide array... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT
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Attendance

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

10:10am PDT

One System, Not Two: Implementing Integrated Student Supports through MTSS

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT

Fountain 3

How do MTSS and the Washington Integrated Student Supports Protocol fit together in practice? This session helps district and program leaders move from parallel efforts to a coherent system. We will clarify what MTSS is—and is not—as a systems framework, and how it supports the design and implementation of integrated student supports. Through examples and guided reflection, participants will examine how leadership teams, data systems, and building-level plans align to meet LAP requirements. We will also offer practical entry points for districts at any stage—whether beginning with MTSS or leveraging the Protocol as a driver for system alignment. Participants will leave with concrete next steps to strengthen coherence across initiatives.

Speakers

Andrea Bowman

Regional MTSS Implementation Strategist, Olympic Educational Service District 114

Andrea Bowman currently serves as a Regional Implementation Strategist at Olympic Educational Service District 114, where she partners with district and building leaders to assess their current MTSS design and support action planning for system-wide improvements. Her work centers... Read More →

Sheila Gerrish

OSPI

Annie Pennell

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT
Fountain 3

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

10:10am PDT

The Next Chapter

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT

Fountain 1

This session explores the evolving role of special education leadership within fully integrated MTSS systems. Drawing on federal‑to‑state lessons learned, IDEA implementation trends, and current funding realities, participants will examine the shift from compliance‑driven practice to instructionally focused systems. Special education directors and leaders will leave with clarity on what to monitor now—and how special education functions as a core driver of MTSS, not an adjacent system.

Speakers

Glenna Gallo

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT
Fountain 1

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

10:10am PDT

Supporting Multilingual Learners' Pathways to Graduation

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT

Gala 1

Multilingual Learners (MLs) have unique challenges in meeting graduation requirements and preparing for post-secondary opportunities. In this session, our OSPI team will share strategies to support secondary MLs in their pathways to graduation including awarding credit for coursework completed in other countries, mastery-based crediting, and best practices to support long-term or "experienced" multilinguals in core content classes.

Speakers

Kristin Percy Calaff

Director of Multilingual Education, OSPI

Dr. Kristin Percy Calaff is the Director of Multilingual Education for the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. She has over 35 years of experience as a dual language teacher, principal, district administrator, and state leader. Kristin holds a Ph.D. in Multilingual/Multicultural... Read More →

Elizabeth LaFever

Dual Language Program Supervisor, OSPI

Veronica Trapani-Huebner

Associate Director - Content, World Languages, Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Dr. Veronica Trapani-Huebner is the Associate Director of Content for World Languages and International Education at the state of Washington’s Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. She taught German and English for a decade in Michigan, Tennessee, New York, and Germany... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT
Gala 1

Multilingual Learners

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Secondary

10:10am PDT

Recent Online Threat Trends & Practical Tools to Assess and Respond

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT

Fuji 1

Safer Schools Together (SST) presents a workshop reflecting the most up-to-date worrisome trends identified by SST Threat Analysts in their day-to-day case consultations with Safety/Threat Assessment teams. This session is based on our most sought after Current Online Behavioral Trends and Digital Updates training and will highlight worrisome behaviors frequently identified by our team on platforms like TikTok, Discord, Snapchat, and Telegram. Participants will further learn how to navigate and assess darker corners of the digital world, such as 4chan, Sanctioned Suicide, and Watchpeopledie.tv.

Speakers

Steven MacDonald

Director of Training, Safer Schools Together

Steven joined Safer Schools Together (SST) as a Threat Analyst in 2019 after earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. As an Executive Director, he collaborates closely with SST’s CEO, Theresa Campbell, to design and implement training programs such as Behavioral and Digital... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT
Fuji 1

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

10:10am PDT

Using Your MTSS Data to Support New SLD Eligibility Determination Procedures

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT

Orchard South

Washington’s shift to RtI-based SLD eligibility requires a system-level approach. This session translates WAC and OSPI guidance into action, highlighting what districts must do to deliver defensible decisions. We’ll address common gaps like—fragmented data, inconsistent Tier 1 instruction, and weak progress monitoring, and we will define what a high-functioning MTSS system looks like in practice. Through a real-world use case, learn how to operationalize MTSS with the infrastructure needed to support early identification, and eligibility determination at scale.

Speakers

Caitlin Crossman

Senior Professional Services Manager of Operations, Branching Minds

Caitlin Crossman is the Senior Professional Services Manager of Operations at Branching Minds. In this role, she partners with district and building leaders to support the successful adoption and implementation of the Branching Minds platform.Caitlin earned a Bachelor of Science in... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:10am - 11:10am PDT
Orchard South

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

11:20am PDT

Start Strong, Stay Strong: Attendance Matters

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT

Orchard North

Attendance is an important element in the MTSS framework. If students are not attending school it not only has an impact on them individually, but others as well. This session will explore systems work around builiding postiive attendance habits from the beginning of the year to the end of the year. Based on NCESD's ATTEND Network and current research around attendance messaging participants will understand the importance of starting early, using language to encourage, not discourage families, and gainiing momentum throughout the year.

Speakers

Ashley Goetz

ESD 171

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT
Orchard North

Attendance

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

11:20am PDT

The Charcuterie Board of Supports: Strategies and Resources to Keep Students with Complex Behavioral Needs Successful in Their Home Schools

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT

Fountain 3

While out-of-district placements may sometimes be necessary, schools must first explore how to support students in their home settings. This session highlights statewide resources and practical strategies school teams can implement immediately. From regional partnerships to mental health and capacity-building supports, participants will leave with actionable ideas to strengthen systems, build staff capacity, and improve outcomes for students with complex behavioral needs. Come get a taste of what is out there for you!

Speakers

Anna Troutman

MASH Director, NCESD

Currently acting as the MASH Director, Anna Troutman has integrated her background in behavior analysis and special education into leading this statewide program. Prior to MASH, Anna has worked as a clinical, in-home, and school-based BCBA, as well as an elementary special education... Read More →

Katy Bateman

Research Scientist, University of Washington

Patrick Mulick

Director of Student Engagement, Auburn School District

Patrick is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a certified speaker, trainer, and coach with the John Maxwell Team. Originally from the humble town of Boring, Oregon, Patrick earned his undergrad and masters in special education and behavior analysis from Gonzaga University. While... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT
Fountain 3

Behavior & PBIS

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

11:20am PDT

Curriculum Implementation Leadership: An Enabling Context for Inclusive Systems

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT

Fuji 3

Many principals describe curriculum use in their schools as "hodge-podge" or "all over the place," revealing a structural barrier that undermines the coherence and consistency inclusive systems require. Inequitable Tier 1 access perpetuates the very disparities MTSS is designed to eliminate. Drawing on implementation science and the enabling contexts needed to create conditions for success, this session reimagines the principal's role as a leader of curriculum implementation, equipping participants with four concrete leadership investments to sustain truly inclusive systems.

Speakers

Melissa Van Straten

Director of Teaching, Learning & Leadership, Mount Vernon School District

Dr. Melissa Van Straten is an educational leader and scholar-practitioner who currently serves as the Director of Elementary Teaching, Learning, and Leadership in the Mount Vernon School District in Mount Vernon, WA. Her career includes roles as an elementary classroom teacher, instructional... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT
Fuji 3

Target Audience Principals, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

11:20am PDT

Inclusive Education in Practice

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT

Gala 3

This session will show systems in place at Toppenish Middle School for inclusive education. This includes strong tier 1 systems (including SEL instruction), RTI groups (schoolwide, counselor-led, and inclusive), and delivery and monitoring of SDI across different placements, Attendees will leave knowing how general education curriculums can be adapted so SWD can be involved and progress within general education curriculums at the same time and same classroom as their peers.

Speakers

Brenda Brophil

Toppenish School District

Hello! Thank you for attending MTSS 2026! I have been teaching since 2005. I graduated from CWU in 2005 but moved to the Oregon Coast to begin my career as it was (and is!) beautiful there. I taught within a self-contained and medically fragile classroom for four years, followed... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT
Gala 3

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Secondary

11:20am PDT

Introduction to Comprehensive, Integrated 3-Tiered System of Prevention (Ci3T)

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT

Fuji 2

Feeling stretched by fragmented initiatives and competing priorities? Focus on building one coherent MTSS aligned to Washington’s integrated approach for academics, behavior, and social-emotional learning. Developed and studied by researchers at the University of Kansas, this session introduces the Ci3T Building Your Model series and walks district and building leaders through the what, why, and how of strengthening Tier 1 systems and coordinated Tier 2/3 supports.

Speakers

Andrea Bowman

Regional MTSS Implementation Strategist, Olympic Educational Service District 114

Sandra Gessner

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning, Olympic Educational Service District 114

The Fellows’ Network is a group of instructional leaders convened by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction Washington State Fellows’ Network and the Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD) Network. Our mission is to support district and community implementation of state learning standards in Mathematics, English Language Arts, Science, and Early Learning Guidelines. Fellows meet four times per year and are committ... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT
Fuji 2

Target Audience Principals, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

11:20am PDT

UDL and the Purposeful Shift: Using AI to Empower Student-Led Learning

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT

Gala 1

Does it ever feel like you’re working harder than your students? Have you spent hours on lessons, only to face disengaged learners? It’s time to shift your practice. Based on the transformative work of Katie Novak, this session explores how to move from a teacher-led to student-led environment where learners take the lead and teachers regain their time.

Speakers

Tracy Dabbs

Director of Technology & Innovation, Burlington-Edison School District

Check out our Ed-Tech Support site:
https://sites.google.com/be.wednet.edu/besd-technology-and-innovation/home

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT
Gala 1

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

11:20am PDT

Using a Semi-Structured Interview to Accompany the MTSS Fidelity of Implementation Rubric to Establish Building and District Priorities

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT

Fountain 1

The AIR MTSS Fidelity of Implementation Rubric (2025) provides a comprehensive view of a building’s MTSS framework. Washington AIMS faculty developed a semi-structured interview for facilitators to examine building-level implementation of essential components in ELA, math, and social-emotional/behavioral areas. This session provides participants with steps to facilitate interviews, reliably score, and prioritize next steps for implementation. Participants will receive access to a facilitator’s guide, interview template, example building and district reports, and a resource library.

Speakers

William Rasplica

Executive Director, Learning Support Services (Retired), UW Bothell

Bill retired after 42 years working in the public schools of Illinois, Iowa and Washington State. Past positions include paraprofessional, special education teacher, principal, AEA special education consultant and district special education administrator. In Washington, Bill has been... Read More →

Susan Ruby

Susan is a nationally certified school psychologist and practiced in five states before working as a professor in School Psychology at Eastern Washington University. She recently retired as Professor Emeritus and looks forward to collaborating with districts and schools in their MTSS... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT
Fountain 1

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

11:20am PDT

NTAC Case Study utilizing the Systems Approach

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT

Gala 2

This interactive case study utilizes the NTAC Systems Approach to examine the behavioral background and life circumstances of an individual of concern. The presenter will use specific question prompts to engage the audience in discussion surrounding procedural considerations, opportunities for additional information gathering and assessment, and strategies for intervention and response.

Speakers

Kristy Domingues

United States Secret Service

Arlene Macias

National Threat Assessment Center, United States Secret Service

Shannon

Wednesday July 29, 2026 11:20am - 12:20pm PDT
Gala 2

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

1:20pm PDT

What Actually Works: An exemplar district’s journey of Integrated MTSS and Universal Screening

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT

Gala 3

District MTSS coaches and university partners co-present on successful implementation of integrated MTSS and universal screening. Presenters share lessons learned, implementation strategies, and partnership structures that supported sustainable screening practices aligned to district context and need.

Speakers

Stacy Artz

Kara Lamb

Mari Meador

School Mental Healther Coordinator, University of Washington

Rayann Silva

School Mental Health Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator, University of Washington

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT
Gala 3

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

1:20pm PDT

Implementing Inclusive Kindergarten Programming

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT

Fuji 1

Learn about one school district's journey to ensure early learners with disabilities experience inclusive programming in preschool and kindergarten. Initiating a fully-inclusive kindergarten program (aptly named Developmentally Responsive Kindergarten) is complex and requires a balance of strategy and nuance. This session will discuss celebrations, challenges, and replicable systems to support your district’s journey to support early learners in a truly inclusive learning environment.

Speakers

Melissa Munson-Merritt

Executive Director of Special Services, Bethel School District

Amy Weaver

Bethel School District

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT
Fuji 1

Early Learning

Target Audience Principals, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, District-wide

1:20pm PDT

From Classrooms to Communities – The Power of Gathering in Education

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT

Fountain 1

Speakers

Priya Parker

Penguin Random House Speakers Bureau

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT
Fountain 1

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

1:20pm PDT

MTSS from Scratch to Success: Empowering Educators, Students, and Families With a MTSS Success Story for the Virtual School

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT

Gala 1

This professional development session explores how a virtual school designed and implemented a fully functioning Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) from the ground up. Participants will learn key structures, processes, and tools used to build a responsive system in a remote environment. The session highlights first-year successes, future plans, and practical strategies for data-driven decision making, intervention planning, and team collaboration to support all learners effectively in a virtual setting with actionable examples and templates.

Speakers

Katherine Blair

Special Services Director, Valley School District

Taylor Morgan

Intervention Specialist, Valley School District

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT
Gala 1

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary

1:20pm PDT

Multi-Tiered System of Supports: A District Implementation Roadmap — An Evidence-Based Framework for Systemic School & District Improvement

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT

Orchard South

MTSS/RTI is not a program you purchase — it is a systemic transformation in how districts think about students, data, and instruction. Drawing on two decades of peer-reviewed research and real-world district experience, this session walks participants through a three-phase, three-year implementation roadmap anchored in four non-negotiable components: a tiered continuum of supports, universal screening, progress monitoring, and data-based decision-making. Equity, family partnership, and lessons from Washington State's Last Mile Project are woven throughout.

Speakers

Cassie Martin

Executive Director of Special Education, OSPI

Dr. Cassie Martin is WA state’s Executive Director of Special Education at OSPI. For over 25 years, Cassie has dedicated her professional life and learning to equitable and inclusive education for students with disabilities in support of strong educational outcomes for all students... Read More →

Tania May

Assistant Superintendent of Special Education, OSPI

Dr. Tania May is the Assistant Superintendent of Special Education for the Washington state Office of
Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Her work is focused on collaborating with schools,
community partners, families, and students in support of improved outcomes for stude... Read More →

William Rasplica

Executive Director, Learning Support Services (Retired), UW Bothell

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT
Orchard South

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

1:20pm PDT

Both Ways In: Building MTSS That Works for Multilingual Learners — and Multilingual Services That Work Within MTSS

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT

Fuji 2

Multilingual learners are over-referred to intervention and under-served within it. This session presents a district-tested framework with two orientations: applying MTSS principles within multilingual learner services to tier ELD support by need, and infusing multilingual expertise into every MTSS tier — from reading and math intervention to universal instruction. We also examine RTI accountability structures for linguistically informed decision-making. Participants leave with a replicable model and concrete next steps.

Speakers

Kate Morin

Director of Multilingual Education, Mount Vernon School District

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT
Fuji 2

Multilingual Learners

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

1:20pm PDT

Steps to Establish Insufficient Progress Using RTI for SLD Evaluations

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT

Orchard North

This session will provide participants with the steps needed to select appropriate academic progress monitoring tools, establish baselines, set goals, and apply decision-making rules. The session will provide participants with tools they can use and examples of graphs and reports to summarize student progress.

Speakers

Susan Ruby

Wednesday July 29, 2026 1:20pm - 2:20pm PDT
Orchard North

Target Audience Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary

2:30pm PDT

Beyond Spreadsheets: Building MTSS Dashboards That Drive Action

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Fountain 1

Effective MTSS depends on clear and usable data, but many Washington districts struggle with fragmented information and inconsistent implementations. In this session, a Washington district shares how they use integrated MTSS dashboards to bring academic, behavioral, and attendance data into one place. Participants will explore practical strategies that support actionable team conversations based on real-time data, align with state priorities like assessment/SLD criteria, and improving early warning systems all to make more informed decisions across schools.

Speakers

Chelsea Lane

Renaissance Learning

Nick Pinzke

Renaissance Learning

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Fountain 1

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

2:30pm PDT

Aligning for Impact: Building an Integrated MTSS Approach in the Middle Grades

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Golden Delicious

This session shares lessons from implementing a district-wide, integrated MTSS approach through the lens of the middle grades. Participants will explore how we aligned PBIS, mental health, and academics to create safe, welcoming schools grounded in each student’s story, strengths, and needs. With a focus on growth of the “whole child”, we will highlight a systems approach that increases student outcomes. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to strengthen MTSS implementation in their schools.

Speakers

Wyeth Jessee

Superintendent, Shelton School District

Mary K. Johnson

Principal at Olympic Middle School, Shelton School District

Mary Johnson is the principal of Olympic Middle School in Shelton, Washington, where she is committed to building systems that support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional success of every student. With more than 20 years in education, Mary has served in a variety of roles... Read More →

Adrienne Minnery

Shelton School District

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Golden Delicious

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Secondary, District-wide

2:30pm PDT

From Consultation to Transformation: How District Partnerships Remove the Barriers That Disempower Students in MTSS

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Red Delicious

Most MTSS systems were designed to support students—yet too often, they continue to disempower those furthest from opportunity. Through a partnership with an elementary school in a Washington State district, this interactive session reveals how consultation can surface hidden barriers and transform Tier 1 practices. Participants will use a practical diagnostic tool to uncover inequities in their own systems and leave with a clear, actionable approach to build inclusive environments where every student can thrive.

Speakers

Britney Boyles

Senior Liberation Consultant, And Still We Rise

Consulting Coordinator and Senior Liberation Consultant at And Still We Rise, Britney Boyles is based in Washington State and was a public school educator for nearly a decade. As an administrator, Boyles centered the needs of those who are often unseen and amplified the voices of... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Red Delicious

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

2:30pm PDT

From Framework to Function: MTSS in Action for Small Schools

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Fountain 2

This session highlights how a small district moved MTSS from theory to fully functioning systems. Participants will see real structures for behavior, RTI, and SPED integration, including meeting processes, data use, and intervention cycles. We will share tools, templates, and team roles that support sustainability. Outcomes include increased staff clarity, improved intervention effectiveness, and stronger alignment between general and special education systems in a small school setting.

Speakers

Sarah Lewman

Special Services Director, Omak School District

Nicole Roberts

SpEd Teacher, Omak School District

Star Stone

Omak School District

Brenda Worden

Omak School District

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Fountain 2

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors
Experience Proficient
Grade Band Elementary

2:30pm PDT

Tracing the Pathway to Violence: What Can Digital Leakage Reveal During a Threat Assessment?

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Gala 2

Nearly 90% of today's threats are communicated digitally; therefore, an accurate assessment of risk cannot be determined without assessing a threat maker’s digital behavioral baseline. This training will highlight worrisome behaviors frequently identified by SST Threat Analysts on platforms like TikTok, Discord, Snapchat, and Telegram. Participants will further learn how to navigate and assess darker corners of the digital world, such as 4chan, Sanctioned Suicide, and Watchpeopledie.tv.

Speakers

Steven MacDonald

Director of Training, Safer Schools Together

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Gala 2

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

2:30pm PDT

Bringing Psychology to School Psychology in Washington

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Fuji 3

The progression to MTSS provides needed opportunity for school psychologists in Washington to step beyond the IEP Matrix. As school-based mental health experts, we should be ready and willing to provide prevention (SEL), intervention (psycho-education), and services (counseling) in support of students and schools. Let's return to our roots and meet increasing needs!

Speakers

Leslie Baunach

Amy Cannava

Lead School Psychologist, Rainstorms to Rainbows

Amy Cannava is an east coast transplant trying to both remember and forget the Seattle Stare. As a veteran Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) of 25++ years who remembers RtI's attempt to eradicate the archaic discrepancy model and improve academic achievement through... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Fuji 3

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

2:30pm PDT

Investing in Prevention: Special Education Resources to Strengthen MTSS Implementation

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Orchard South

Speakers

Cassie Martin

Executive Director of Special Education, OSPI

Tania May

Assistant Superintendent of Special Education, OSPI

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Orchard South

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

2:30pm PDT

It’s Not Won’t—It’s EF: Rethinking Student Support Through an Executive Function Lens

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Fountain 3

When students struggle in MTSS, we often assume a motivation problem—but executive function (EF) may be the missing link. This session helps educators shift from compliance-based thinking to skill-based support by identifying EF barriers. Participants will gain a clear framework and practical strategies to improve student engagement, reduce frustration, and increase independence across classroom and intervention settings.

Speakers

Shana Anders

Pediatric PT & Executive Function Consultant, NEST Collective

Shana Anders, PT, DPT is a school-based pediatric physical therapist with a passion for helping educators, families, and students make sense of challenges that are often misunderstood as motivation, behavior, or effort. Her work is shaped by both professional experience and life within... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Fountain 3

Target Audience Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

2:30pm PDT

The Road to 2028!

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Orchard North

This session explores the intentional steps taken to prepare our region for the sunset of the discrepancy model and the shift toward an RTI-based diagnosis for Specific Learning Disabilities. Participants will hear our story of how we mapped out the next few years, including key resources and professional development opportunities that supported this transition. Attendees will leave with practical ideas and tools to guide their own district's internal planning ahead of the 2028 deadline.

Speakers

Susan Ruby

Amber Targus

Capital Region ESD 113

Wednesday July 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Orchard North

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

3:40pm PDT

Sustaining Student Presence: Strategies for Keeping Learners in the Classroom

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT

Orchard North

Grounded in MTSS, inclusive practices, and trauma-informed approaches, this workshop emphasizes prevention over reaction. This session focuses on practical, evidence-based strategies that reduce student removal from instruction and increase meaningful time in the classroom. Participants will examine the root causes of exclusionary practices—ranging from unmet behavioral and academic needs to systems-level barriers—and explore how to proactively design environments that support engagement, regulation, and access for all learners. By the end of the session, participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how to sustain student presence, reduce reliance on exclusionary discipline, and create classroom conditions where students remain engaged, supported, and learning.

Speakers

Dr. Sara Paul

Program Supervisor - Students Served in Nontraditional Settings, OSPI

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT
Orchard North

Behavior & PBIS

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

3:40pm PDT

Beyond the Rainbow: Tiered Supports for LGBTQIA+ Youth

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT

Fuji 3

Schools have an ethical responsibility to meet the needs of LGBTQIA+ youth which goes beyond a GSA. This session will provide guidance for meeting the needs of LGBTQIA+ students using an affirming framework, empowering educators with the knowledge, skills, and attitude needed to do so. Interventions and resources are recommended in a subdivided, tiered framework addressing essential elements in inclusive school environments including culture, climate, curriculum, and counseling.

Speakers

Amy Cannava

Lead School Psychologist, Rainstorms to Rainbows

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT
Fuji 3

Equity & Inclusion

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Secondary, District-wide

3:40pm PDT

What's New & What's Next for IPTN

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT

Fuji 2

Speakers

Jaimee Kidder

Special Education Program Supervisor, OSPI

Amy Vaughn

OSPI

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT
Fuji 2

Equity & Inclusion

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

3:40pm PDT

How DOES a Learning Disability Show Up in Math?

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT

Gala 1

This session will explore the use of math learning progressions centered on foundation PreK–12 math standards to support the RTI process of identifying learning disabilities in math. Examples will be shared of formative assessments that surface student thinking to more deeply identify a student’s math learning challenge. Participants will receive practical tools and evidence-based math intervention strategies that support both intensive math interventions as well as classroom and small group instruction.

Speakers

Anne Gallagher

Wenatchee School District

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT
Gala 1

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

3:40pm PDT

From Talk to Traction: Leading MTSS Implementation That Actually Gets Done

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT

Gala 3

Does your team spend time talking about MTSS without seeing meaningful progress? This session focuses on moving MTSS from discussion to action using practical project management strategies. Participants will explore tools such as project charters, RACI matrices, communication plans, and structured team routines to clarify roles, set priorities, and sustain momentum. With an emphasis on equity, participants will leave with concrete strategies and ready-to-use tools to ensure MTSS efforts translate into consistent, systemwide implementation.

Speakers

Dr. Hannah Gbenro

Chief Operations Officer, Dynamic Education Consulting & Solutions

Wednesday July 29, 2026 3:40pm - 4:40pm PDT
Gala 3

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

8:30am PDT

Welcome

Thursday July 30, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am PDT

Grand Apple Ballroom

Speakers

OSPI

Thursday July 30, 2026 8:30am - 9:00am PDT
Grand Apple Ballroom 121 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

9:00am PDT

Knowing What to Do When You Don’t Know What to Do: The Making of an Expert Teacher

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am PDT

Grand Apple Ballroom

Teaching is a profession defined by uncertainty that no amount of training can prepare you for. Classrooms are complex environments where lessons rarely unfold exactly as planned, where students respond in unexpected ways, and where new challenges continually emerge—from shifting curricula to the rapid rise of technologies such as AI. In these moments, the most effective teachers aren’t simply those with a large repertoire of strategies. They are those who know what to do when they don’t immediately know what to do. This is the hallmark of expert teaching. The natural question, then, is: How do teachers develop this kind of expertise?

Part of the answer lies in recognising that teaching is both a science and a craft and both need to be continually developed and honed, long after initial teacher education has been completed. This path to expertise development requires ongoing intentional and effortful commitment to growth. Some teachers rely primarily on gaining more experience in the classroom, others on continuous professional development and training. A third pathway—deliberate practice—focuses on consciously and systematically improving specific aspects of instruction. This keynote explores how these different routes shape teacher development, and why deliberate practice may offer a particularly powerful way of strengthening teachers’ ability to make effective instructional decisions over time.

Speakers

Nidhi Sachdeva

Educator, Educational Technology Researcher, Evidence-informed Learning Designer, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education

Nidhi Sachdeva is a teacher educator, researcher, and learning design consultant specializing in the science of learning, teacher expertise, and evidence-informed instructional design. She teaches at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto and is... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 9:00am - 10:30am PDT
Grand Apple Ballroom 121 N Wenatchee Ave, Wenatchee, WA 98801

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

10:40am PDT

Let Data Drive You Where You Want to Go: Build an Assessment Roadmap!

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT

Fountain 3

Drowning in data but starving for clarity? This session introduces the Assessment Roadmap pathway—an action-oriented approach to aligning assessments with purpose, teaming structures, and decision-making across MTSS. Participants will explore ready-to-use tools and templates and engage with modeled examples of what is possible, inspired by district practice, to see how the right data can reach the right teams at the right time to drive meaningful action.

Speakers

Andrea Bowman

Regional MTSS Implementation Strategist, Olympic Educational Service District 114

Kjersti Clayton

ESD 105

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT
Fountain 3

Target Audience Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

10:40am PDT

Making MTSS Work: Building a System That Supports Every Student

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT

Fountain 1

Learn how a district operationalized MTSS to create consistent, high-quality instruction and targeted supports across all schools. This session highlights practical structures, including use of the AIR MTSS Fidelity Rubric, building-level interviews, and data-informed decision-making to strengthen Tier 1 and align teams. Participants will leave equipped with actionable tools and strategies to critically examine their systems, surface strengths, address gaps, and take purposeful next steps to accelerate their MTSS implementation.

Speakers

Glenn Johnson

Superintendent, Cashmere School District

Linda McKay

Deputy Superintendent, NCESD 171

Each of Washington’s nine Educational Service Districts (ESDs) provides essential local services, responsive to their region’s communities. Together, they form a network that leverages each other’s strengths, and supports all students and schools statewide.

OSPI and ESD superintendents represented within the Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD) have agreed to commit to establishing and maintaining the OSPI/AESD partnership. They are working together to realize an open and coordinated system focused on shared statewide... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT
Fountain 1

Target Audience MTSS Coach/Specialists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

10:40am PDT

Aligned on Paper, Stuck in Practice: Using the Knoster Model to Build Inclusive Systems That Actually Work

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT

Fuji 1

When MTSS collaboration breaks down, it's rarely a people problem — it's a systems problem. This session uses the Knoster Model for Managing Complex Change as a diagnostic lens for why inclusive systems stall, drawing on honest case studies from Washington state IPTN demonstration site teams. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of what collaboration requires and a practical framework to diagnose exactly where their system needs attention.

Speakers

RinaMarie Leon Geurrero

Project Coordinator, None

Shane Miramontez

Inclusion Specialist, Other

Stacia Tellefson

Other

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT
Fuji 1

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

10:40am PDT

Beyond Compliance: Leadership Lessons in Hope

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT

Gala 3

Special education leadership is becoming increasingly complex. Legal requirements, staffing shortages, student needs, and system pressures can leave leaders feeling overwhelmed. While compliance remains essential, it cannot be the ultimate goal.
Drawing from 36 years of experience in special education, this session explores how leaders can move beyond survival toward building systems that support students, staff, and themselves. Participants will reflect on the realities of leadership today, reconnect with the purpose of the work, and leave with practical tools for sustaining excellence and hope in challenging systems.

Outcomes -
✔ renewed sense of purpose
✔ emotional steadiness
✔ two practical leadership tools
✔ reflection on their own leadership journey

Speakers

Justin Bradford

Executive Director of Special Services, ESD 123

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT
Gala 3

Target Audience Principals, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

10:40am PDT

From Instruction to Referral: Getting MTSS Right for Multilingual Learners with Culturally Responsive Practices

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT

Orchard North

This session explores how MTSS and the pre referral process should function for multilingual learners. Participants will examine culturally and linguistically responsive practices, the integration of English Language Development across all MTSS tiers, and structured tools to guide decision making. Attendees will leave with practical tools and reflective questions to support whole child data review, instructional access, and the differentiation of language difference from disability prior to special education referral.

Speakers

Kad El-Atwani

Multilingual Program Supervisor-OSPI, Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Kadriye El-Atwani (a.k.a Dr. Kad) is a Multilingual Education Program Supervisor at the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), currently residing in Eastern Washington. Before joining OSPI, Dr. Kad served as a Multilingual Education Specialist at the New... Read More →

Virginia Morales

Assistant Director of Multilingual Education, Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Virginia Morales is the Assistant Director of Multilingual Education with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. She has over 20 years’ experience in the field of Multilingual Education. Most recently, Virginia was a Professional Learning Specialist at WIDA. In addition... Read More →

Katie Sperling

Multilingual Education Program Supervisor, Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Katie Sperling is a Multilingual Education Program Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience teaching and leading K–12 language development programs across Washington State. In her current role at OSPI, Katie provides statewide leadership and technical assistance to support... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT
Orchard North

Multilingual Learners

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

10:40am PDT

Skill-Building Alternative to Punitive Safety Responses

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT

Gala 1

Schools are increasingly challenged to respond to concerning student behavior in ways that maintain safety without relying on exclusionary or punitive discipline. This session explores how behavior support practices and behavioral threat assessment can work together to create proactive, skill-building responses. Grounded in applied behavior analysis and multidisciplinary threat assessment principles, participants will learn how understanding behavior as communication helps teams move beyond reaction toward prevention, shared decision-making, and supportive interventions that balance safety, dignity, inclusion, and staff confidence.

Speakers

Anna Troutman

MASH Director, NCESD

Hunter McLeod

Threat Assessment Coordinator, ESD 171

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT
Gala 1

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary

10:40am PDT

Identifying and Supporting Students Experiencing Homelessness Using the MTSS Framework

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT

Fuji 3

If you are looking for effective, inclusive strategies for supporting students experiencing homelessness within the MTSS framework, this informative session is for you. Through discussion, collaborative activities and real-world examples, participants will learn:
• How inclusive systems can remove barriers to student success.
• Practical strategies for early identification of students experiencing homelessness.
• How to design and implement evidence-based supports at all tiers of MTSS.
• Strategies for building cross system collaborations.
Participants will leave this session equipped to support this vulnerable student group, while connecting students and families with essential resources both at school and in the community.

Speakers

Vivian Rogers Decker

Homeless Student Stability Education Program Supervisor, Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Vivian Rogers Decker has spent over 30 years in education serving students and families experiencing trauma, poverty, and housing insecurity. Currently she serves as the Homeless Student Stability Education Program Supervisor for the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction... Read More →

Rosemary Peterson

Education & Employment Manager, Washington State Department of Commerce, Office of Homeless Youth

Rosemary Peterson (she/her) is the Education & Employment Manager for the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Office of Homeless Youth (OHY), where she leads statewide initiatives to expand education, training, and economic opportunity for young people experiencing homelessness. Her commitment to this... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 10:40am - 11:40am PDT
Fuji 3

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

12:40pm PDT

Your MTSS Roadmap: A Strategic Planning Session for School Teams

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT

Fountain 1

MTSS works best when teams plan together. Bring your team to this collaborative workshop where you will conduct a self-assessment of current MTSS practices, explore implementation barriers through root cause analysis, and use structured planning time to identify intentional next steps. Whether your team is building, strengthening, or refining MTSS practices, this session provides structured time to reflect, problem-solve, and plan next steps together.

Speakers

Emily Bushouse

Behavior Inclusion Coach, NCESD 171

Emily is originally from Michigan where she earned her Educational Specialist degree in school psychology. She has worked in Michigan, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington in public school, university, and residential settings, serving students with special needs from preK through university... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT
Fountain 1

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

12:40pm PDT

Beyond the Tiered Pyramid: Driving Sustainable Change through Leadership and Well-being

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT

Fuji 2

Implementing a Social-Emotional and Behavioral (SEB) MTSS framework is often viewed as the definitive roadmap for student success, yet many districts find these initiatives stalling at the "educator buy-in" phase. Why? Because systems are only as strong as the people who power them. This session explores how leadership practices support SEB and Special Education programming to prevent initiative failure.

-Audit implementation friction to diagnose systemic challenges.

-Move beyond mandates to co-designed professional trust.

-Operationalize well-being, recognizing regulated adults as the primary intervention.

-Align SpEd with MTSS to bridge silos and create unified support

Speakers

Annalisa Sanchez

Educational Consultant, Lumera Leadership

I specialize in supporting school and district leaders as they design and sustain effective SEB MTSS and special education systems. My approach is rooted in the belief that leadership comes first. I have often seen strong initiatives stall because student supports exceed adult readiness... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT
Fuji 2

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

12:40pm PDT

From Silos to Systems: Reimagining School Safety Through MTSS

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT

Gala 3

School safety and violence prevention is most effective when it is embedded within a strong Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), rather than implemented as a standalone initiative.
This session will highlight how districts can integrate safety and violence prevention strategies across Tiered supports. Presenters will share how school-based threat assessment, behavioral health supports, and community partnerships are being aligned within MTSS to create more cohesive and responsive systems.
Attendees will leave with practical strategies and tools to integrate violence prevention into their existing MTSS framework.

Speakers

Amber Wynn

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT
Gala 3

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

12:40pm PDT

The Tier 2 Black Hole: Fixing the System Before Behavior Becomes Risk

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT

Gala 1

Students often stall in Tier 2 supports, where unclear systems, inconsistent interventions, and weak progress monitoring limit impact. This session helps teams identify why students get stuck and how to strengthen Tier 2 as an early prevention layer. Participants will learn to diagnose system breakdowns, apply clear decision rules, and recognize patterns of escalation—supporting timely intervention and reducing the likelihood of behavior progressing to more significant safety or threat concerns.

Speakers

Hunter McLeod

Threat Assessment Coordinator, ESD 171

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT
Gala 1

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, District Administration
Experience Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

12:40pm PDT

Inner Spark - Peer to Peer T-SEL Support

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT

Fuji 3

This session introduces Inner Spark, a component of the Domestic Harmonizer Program that empowers high school students as peer-to-peer leaders promoting Transformative Social-Emotional Learning (T-SEL). Grounded in cognitive science principles, the program builds leadership skills, supports stress management, and deepens emotional understanding while clarifying boundaries of peer support. Participants attending this session will learn several cognitive and somatic practices that strengthen self-awareness, connection, resiliency among students.

Speakers

Karen DeVoogd

Non-Profit Leader, Other

Conflict Resolution Educator Trainer for the DHP. She was formerly also a faculty instructor with the system-wide California State University multiple subject teacher credential program, CalStateTEACH through the CSU Chancellor’s Office and CSU Fresno.

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT
Fuji 3

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Secondary

12:40pm PDT

The Science of Hope

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT

Gala 2

Hope is not wishful thinking—it is a measurable, teachable framework linked to improved academic, social, and emotional outcomes. This session introduces the Science of Hope, grounded in the research of goals, pathways, and agency, and explores how schools can intentionally build hope within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports. Participants will leave with practical strategies to foster hope for students and adults, strengthening engagement, resilience, and well being across tiers.

Speakers

Jolynn Kenney

Executive Director, Other

Executive Director by day. Professional hope-instigator by night. Leads a statewide nonprofit, corrals mentors like a benevolent chaos wizard, and will absolutely ask you to “just real quick reimagine the entire system” before lunch. Fueled by coffee, justice, and a deeply held... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 12:40pm - 1:40pm PDT
Gala 2

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

1:50pm PDT

Elevating Student Voice to Transform MTSS Systems

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT

Orchard North

This session centers student voice as a critical driver of effective, equitable MTSS. Participants explore how student perspectives can strengthen universal instruction and targeted supports, practice tools such as empathy interviews and student-led data reviews, and examine implications for Tier 1 redesign. Through reflection and collaborative planning, teams identify concrete ways to elevate student agency and embed student feedback into MTSS systems and decision-making.

Speakers

Trish Geraghty

Collaborative Learning Solutions

With over two decades in K-12 and higher education, Trish helps schools turn research and frameworks into actual practice. Her expertise spans MTSS, Universal Design for Learning, instructional coaching, and strengths-based leadership approaches she's used to help schools remove barriers... Read More →

Jodi Shuppert

Principal, Kern School District

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT
Orchard North

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Secondary, District-wide

1:50pm PDT

Beyond the Binary: Gender Inclusive Classrooms Uplift and Celebrate Transgender Youth

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT

Gala 3

Participants will first experience an intro level session on gender diversity for school staff, including Tier 1 strategies to create intentionally inclusive spaces. Then, they will explore research that clearly indicates the need for this work and policy that calls for Washington educators to take action. Then, they will embark on a journey to explore multiple paths to classroom, school-wide, and district implementation of inclusive educational spaces that uplift and celebrate trans youth.

Speakers

Tracy Werthman

Social Emotional Learning Specialist, Highline School District

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT
Gala 3

Equity & Inclusion

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

1:50pm PDT

From "we should" to "we did"; District Implementation Planning that Actually Works

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT

Fountain 3

District leaders are great at setting goals—but turning those goals into daily practice is where things often fall apart. In this session, we’ll unpack what implementation planning really is (and what it is not), why it matters for district and implementation teams, and how it can move your work from aspirational to actionable. Participants will explore how implementation science clarifies roles, structures, and next steps—and leave with concrete tools to strengthen follow-through without adding more to their plates.

Speakers

Andrea Bowman

Regional MTSS Implementation Strategist, Olympic Educational Service District 114

Kjersti Clayton

ESD 105

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT
Fountain 3

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band District-wide

1:50pm PDT

From Reflection to Action: Using the Principles & Practices Tool to Build Inclusive MTSS Systems

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT

Fountain 2

Most MTSS frameworks ask teams to measure fidelity to structures. But structures don't change systems — people do. In this session, participants will explore the Principles & Practices Tool, a self-assessment grounded in appreciative inquiry, developed through the UW Haring Center's Inclusionary Practices Technical Network. Washington state demonstration site teams share how the P&P Tool shifted conversations from compliance to conviction — creating conditions for more inclusive, sustainable MTSS implementation rooted in belonging and equity.

Speakers

RinaMarie Leon Geurrero

Project Coordinator, None

Shane Miramontez

Inclusion Specialist, Other

Stacia Tellefson

Other

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT
Fountain 2

Target Audience Principals, MTSS Coach/Specialists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

1:50pm PDT

Before It Escalates: The Connection between HIB & Threat Assessment

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT

Gala 1

This applied training focuses on Washington State’s Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB) procedures and School-Based Threat Assessment practices. Using practical applications, participants will explore the realities of how school safety has intersections with school climate, student behavior, and intervention systems. Participants will practice how to identify behaviors and provide early intervention, implement safety interventions, and support students using existing systems to balance safety and inclusion.

Speakers

Jocelyn Nunez

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Amber Wynn

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT
Gala 1

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

1:50pm PDT

Bridging BTAM and MTSS: A Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Approach to School Safety

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT

Red Delicious

Discover how Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management (BTAM) already reflects
core MTSS principles through early identification, multidisciplinary teaming, and tiered
intervention. This session highlights the SK Cascade Student Threat Assessment Team
(STAT) Process and connects research, real-world application, and system alignment to
demonstrate how comprehensive threat assessment processes address threats of
school violence. Outcomes include identifying opportunities to strengthen violence
prevention, enhancing team collaboration, and aligning evidence-based practices and
the MTSS framework.

Speakers

Courtenay McCarthy

Senior Advisor, School Safety Solutions, Public Consulting Group

Courtenay is a school psychologist and senior advisor of school safety solutions for Public Consulting Group. She served over a decade as the lead school psychologist in student threat assessment and management for Salem-Keizer Public Schools, conducting multidisciplinary behavioral... Read More →

John VanDreal

Chief Architect, Violence Prevention Solutions; School Psychologist, Public Consulting Group

John Van Dreal is a school psychologist, the chief architect of violence prevention solutions for Public Consulting Group, and the retired director of Safety and Risk Management Services for the Salem-Keizer School District. He continues his career consulting with school districts and communities... Read More →

Katie Callahan

Research Assistant, University of Washington Tacoma

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT
Red Delicious

Target Audience Principals, Teachers, MTSS Coach/Specialists, School Psychologists, Special Education Directors, District Administration
Experience Foundational, Developing, Proficient
Grade Band Elementary, Secondary, District-wide

1:50pm PDT

Policy to Practice: Universal Mental Health Screening in Washington

Thursday July 30, 2026 1:50pm - 2:50pm PDT

Golden Delicious

Learn how regions and districts in the state of Washington are engaging in universal screening within an MTSS. We will share how they've expanded team membership and taken an integrated approach to School Mental Health and universal screening. Participants will learn about how universal screening data can be used to promote education equity for all students. This session will demonstrate approaches that foster adults' cultural competence and an interconnected approach to enhancing comprehensive school mental health.

Speakers