Session Overview: Sherese Johnson will conduct an interactive presentation on the current updates on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the future of what it means for you as we continue to thrive forward in an unparalleled belief of the dismantling of the US Education System.

Session Overview: This presentation aims to support school professionals in recognizing signs of emotional and traumatic experiences in students. It will provide guidance on how to identify behavioral and emotional cues that could indicate a student has faced trauma. Understanding these signs is essential for addressing students' needs and providing appropriate support.

Session Overview: Equity in Education: Addressing Disparities in Communities and the Classroom, will explore how systemic inequities within marginalized communities directly impact student learning and educational outcomes. The session will highlight the importance of culturally responsive teaching and inclusive curriculum as foundational tools to affirm student identity and improve engagement.

Session Overview: Despite the current political climate and nationwide challenges to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, collaboration between the Cahokia Unit School District, Student First Consulting Group, and the Black Educational Advocacy Coalition provides concrete evidence of a thoughtfully designed self-directed equity program that resulted in districtwide support and participation. Our presentation will offer practical strategies for educators and administrators seeking to advance equity work in their own communities, even in uncertain times.

Session Overview: Self Awareness vs, Self-Resistance: Are You Promoting Positive Equity in the Classroom…highlights the urgent need for diversity in today’s educational environment, particularly in light of current bureaucratic and political hurdles. In this session, the presenter will delve into the concept of equity in the classroom, outlining its importance. Moreover, educators and school administrators will gain practical strategies to foster an inclusive and equitable environment for all students.

Dr. Swaringham has held a variety of roles within both K-12 and higher education and is a licensed teacher, building-level administrator, and superintendent in Indiana. She specializes in grant writing, innovative funding, strategic planning, and designing high-quality professional development experiences for educators at every age and stage of their career in education.  She holds a Bachelor’s of Secondary Education Social Studies (Indiana University), a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education: Technology (IUPUI), a Master’s Degree in Strategic Management (Kelley School of Business at IU), Education Law Certification (IU), Ed.S in Educational Leadership (IU), and a Doctorate of Educational Leadership (IU). 

As a first-generation college graduate, Jamar has experienced firsthand the transformative power of education. Throughout his career, he has worked tirelessly as an educator, leader, and advocate for educational equity. Jamar partnered with students, families, educators, and communities to break down barriers to success, design inclusive practices, and create systems that uplift marginalized voices. Whether in classrooms, boardrooms, or community forums, he is resolutely focused on building environments where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their fullest potential.

Session Overview: This presentation presents findings from a participatory research study conducted with Black caregivers and youth in an urban context. The study explores how families actively work to protect their children from racism and affirm their dignity in the face of systemic oppression. By amplifying these voices, we offer a foundation for developing more culturally responsive, strength-based interventions. Attendees will leave with new insights to inform practice, policy, and program design that better support the holistic well-being of Black youth.

Dr. Michael Robinson has worked in the world of education for 35 years. His career highlights include Measurement Consulting for a Psychological Corporation, Vice President of the Sylvan Learning Company, Vice President of School Partnership of Learning with Learn It Systems, and. Vice President of Proximity Learning. Dr. Robinson has a love and appreciation for educating students regardless of where they live.

Charese Munoz is a middle school ELA teacher in Chicago, passionate about empowering urban youth through literacy and social-emotional learning. Her presentation is designed to highlight the importance of affirmations, representation, and mental health resources for children. Using her custom "Lunacorn Unacorn Mental Health Journal" she will share with participants how to integrate journaling into daily routines to foster resilience and confidence.

Anni Keane is a nationally recognized child welfare advocate who leverages her lived experience in foster care and adoption to drive meaningful systems change. Session Overview: Ready to revolutionize student success through real-world learning and equity-driven partnerships? Community Connectors:School-Business Stakeholder Alliance is an engaging, solutions-focused session designed to spark powerful alliances between schools and local businesses. Join us to explore hands-on models, brainstorm with fellow changemakers, and discover how collective action can build career-ready, civically engaged youth—especially in communities that need it most.

Session Overview: Inspired by A Child’s Vision exhibition, this session introduces participants to the C.A.R.E. (Connect, Activate, Research, and Express) mindset as a framework for fostering student engagement. Participants will interact with the exhibit and explore its digital archive. Designed for educators and professionals of all backgrounds, this interactive session encourages meaningful dialogue and actionable strategies for the classroom and beyond.