NORTH CAROLINA ASSOCIATION
FOR MIDDLE LEVEL EDUCATION
Engage, Ignite, Empower!
Pass it on!
CONFERENCE PROGRAM
42nd ANNUAL CONFERENCE
March 5-7, 2017
Joseph S. Koury Convention Center & Sheraton at Four Seasons
Greensboro, North Carolina
Welcome!
As the NCMLE Conference Director, it is my true honor and privilege to welcome you to what will be one of the
best conferences ever. Our team has worked diligently to have sessions for everyone, from Math and Science to
English and Social Studies, to best practices and administrative leadership. No one will walk away from this year’s
conference without fresh ideas, innovative strategies, and a sense of rejuvenation!
The conference committee has worked hard to plan a conference that is filled with enlightening discussions,
presentations that will cover an array of topics which benefit middle school students and educators, and provide
interactive opportunities for all our conference participants. This is the year to be at the NCMLE conference!
We are very proud to present Jack Berkemeyer as a returning speaker and for the first time with
NCMLE, Principal Kafele. I am grateful that you are attending this year's conference and I'm excited about the
information that will be shared and the experiences planned for everyone.
As a conference committee, we value the diversity that can be found in all
middle schools, the level of commitment that we witness on the part of
educators daily, and we want to ensure you that you will benefit from
attending the 2017 NCMLE conference.
James
Dr. James Davis
Hig Point University
Conference Director
REMINDER—BECAUSE OF THE NEED FOR INCREASED SECURITY,
IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT ALL CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS AND PRESENTERS WEAR
THEIR NAME BADGES TO ALL EVENTS. THANKS FOR YOUR COOPERATION & ENJOY
THE CONFERENCE
2
2016-2017
North Carolina Association for Middle Level Education
Board of Directors
President
President-Elect:
Past President:
Secretary:
Treasurer/Technology:
Best Practices Chair:
Conference Chair/Publications
Conference Assistant Chair:
Higher Education:
Schools to Watch Chair:
Herb Tatum
Pat Knight
Julia Thomason
Marie Rudisell
Rebecca Stevens
Barry Rice
Gerald Patterson
Anthony Sasseen
Barbara Smith
Jean Blackmon-Brauer
Bill Rivenbark
John Arnold
Pamela Riley
Betty Terrell, Retired
Chip Cathey, Catawba County
Laura Corraro, Carteret County
Kecia Rogers, Durham Public
Dwayne Squires, Haywood County
Kim Lynch, Charlotte Mecklenburg
Dr. James Davis, High Point University
Courtney Smith, Cabarrus County
Dr. Lorae Roukema, Campbell University
Dr. Cathy Tomon, Carteret County
Dr. Ran Barnes, Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools
Doug Brady, Retired
Pam Harris, Lincoln County
Tom Hatch, Cumberland County
Jeanneine Jones, UNC Charlotte
Mary Newsome, PD Squared
Dr. Denise Patterson
John Van Hoose
Nancy Farmer
Jeanette Beckwith
Geraldine Ritter
Janice Davis
Ann Hutchens
Steve Teague
Elaine Boysworth
Ginny Myers
Theresa Hinkle
Frances Reaves
Beth Tyson
Betty Terrell
Rose Cooper
3
Jackie Colbert
Cecilia Gregory
Harriet Jackson
Jack Leonard
Rick Singletary
Jodie Graham
Missy Gabriel
Ran Barnes
Tanya Turner
Jodi Weatherman
Cathy Tomon
Kim Lynch
Doug Brady
Laura Corraro
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
Opening Session - MONDAY, MARCH 6th 8:30 AM – 9:45 AM
JACK BERCKEMEYER – Nationally-recognized presenter,
author, and humorist, Jack Berckemeyer, began his career as a
middle school teacher in Denver, Colorado. After two years of
teaching he was named as an outstanding educator at his school,
and shortly thereafter he was identified as one of the outstanding
educators in the district. Jack brings his energy, humor, and
expertise of the middle level adolescent to all staff development as
he helps teachers and administrators remember why this job
makes a difference. Jack has presented both nationally and
internationally. He served as a judge for the Disney American
Teacher Awards and the selection committee for the USA
TODAY All Teacher Team. Jack was Assistant Executive Director for the National Middle
School Association for 13 years and is the author of Managing the Madness- A practical guide to
Middle Grades Classrooms, as well as other publications. Jack is currently the Director of
professional development for Incentive Publications.
Closing Session - TUESDAY, MARCH 7th 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
BARUTI K. KAFELE -- A highly regarded urban public
school educator in New Jersey for nearly 30 years, Baruti K.
Kafele has distinguished himself both as a classroom teacher
and as a school principal. As an elementary school teacher in
East Orange, N.J., Principal Kafele was selected as the East
Orange School District and Essex County Public Schools
Teacher of the Year. As a middle and high school principal in
East Orange, Plainfield, and Newark, N.J., he led the
transformation of four different schools, including Newark
Tech High School, which went from a low-performing school
in need of improvement to recognition by U.S. News and
World Report as one of America's best high schools. He works
with hundreds of schools and districts to assist them with
closing what he coined, the "attitude gap" - the gap between those students who have the will to
strive for academic excellence and those who do not.
4
CONFERENCE SESSION PLANNER
Session
Sunday
(Pre-Con)
Time
Session to Attend
Room
Opening SessionSchools to Watch
Awards
Keynoter Jack
Berckemeyer
Guilford
Ballroom
A-C
Code
7:00 – 8:30 PM
Monday
General Session I
8:30 – 9:45 AM
Monday
Session I
Monday
Session II
10:15 – 11:15 AM
11:30 AM – 12:30
PM
Visit Exhibit Hall
Prizes at 1:10!!
Monday
Session III
Monday
Session IV
Monday
Session V
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Visit Exhibits
Guilford
Ballroom
D- G
2:45 – 3:45 PM
4:00 – 5:00 PM
Fifth Season
Monday
Networking
Celebration
8:30 PM –until?
Social Networking, DJ
& Fun Prizes
Tuesday
8:00 AM – 12:00
PM
Visit Exhibits
Registration Open
Tuesday
Session VI
Tuesday
Session VII
8:30 – 9:30 AM
FREE
Guilford
Ballroom
D-G
9:40 – 10:40 AM
Visit Exhibit Hall
Prizes at 10:55!!
Tuesday
Session VIII
11:15 – 12:15 AM
Tuesday
General Session II
12:30 AM –
2:00 PM
Visit Exhibits
Guilford
Ballroom
D-G
President’s LuncheonAwards Keynoter
Principal Baruti Kafele
Guilford
Ballroom
A-C
5
GENERAL INFORMATION
ADMISSION TO SESSIONS:
Each participant has an official registration badge which serves as a ticket for admission to all
sessions and events. This badge should be worn at all times.
MEAL FUNCTIONS:
On Monday morning from 9:45-10:30, coffee will be available in the Exhibit Hall. On Tuesday,
March 7th, everyone is welcome to enjoy the President’s Luncheon and our closing general
session with Baruti Kafele. To keep our conference registration affordable, all other meals are on
your own.
EXHIBITS:
Exhibits by commercial producers of instructional materials are an important part of the NCMLE
Conference. Books, resources, technology, and products are on display in Guilford Ballrooms DG throughout the conference. Please schedule time to visit!
Monday, March 6th
9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
th
Tuesday, March 7
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Door prizes will be given out in the Exhibit Hall on
Monday at 1:10 pm and Tuesday at 10:55 am.
Door Prizes will be given out at 10:00 pm in the Fifth Season.
MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN
CONTENT-SPECIFIC RENEWAL CREDIT:
Participants who attend the entire conference receive a certificate that should be presented to
your local staff development coordinator for awarding renewal credit. If you would like to
receive renewal credit in a specific strand—Math, English Language Arts, Reading, Science, or
Social Studies, please be sure you attend only sessions in that subject area. Go to
www.ncmle.org and fill out the form using the renewal codes listed in the program to receive
your content-specific renewal credit certificate. You can also earn a full TWELVE HOURS of
renewal credit by completing the content-specific renewal credit module at no additional cost.
All renewal credit requests must be submitted by June 30th.
UNAUTHORIZED COMMERCIAL SOLICITATION:
NCMLE has a strong commitment to high standards of professional development. Commercial
solicitation is prohibited in all conference sessions. Please report any violations to an NCMLE
board or conference committee member.
PREJUDICIAL AND PEJORATIVE REMARKS:
NCMLE takes pride in the high-level performance of its presenters. It is, therefore, expected that
all presentations will be void of all prejudicial and pejorative remarks. Please report any
violations to a NCMLE board or committee member.
WHERE YOU STAY MATTERS:
NCMLE has a contract with the Sheraton to keep conference costs down. A portion of the hotel
room rate goes to offset the costs of the conference. When the contract nights are met NCMLE
receives a reduced rate on meeting space. If minimum room nights are not met NCMLE must
pay the difference, so we appreciate your patronage
6
SESSION PRESENTERS and EXHIBITORS:
Please note that the opinions and information expressed by presenters and exhibitors at this
conference do not necessarily represent those of NCMLE. The association endorses and supports
North Carolina’s state standards and related pedagogy. The presence of exhibitors who have
purchased exhibit space does not imply endorsement by NCMLE for any product or service
displayed in the Exhibit Hall.
2017 CONFERENCE PLANNING COMMITTEE
Position
Name
Position
Name
Awards
Kristy Bullock
On-Site
Registration
Kim Lynch
Conference
Director
Dr. James Davis
Photography
Courtney Smith
Conference
Assistants
Kristy Bullock
PreConference
Registration
Dwayne Squires
Conference
Asst.
Director
Courtney Smith
Higher
Education
Lorae Roukema
Technology
Dwayne Squires, Chair
Registration
Exhibits
Chip Cathey, Chair
Schools to
Watch
7
Kristy Bullock
Kim Lynch Pam Harris
Cheryl Bruno
Cathy Tomon, Chair
Laura Corraro, Site Visit
Chair
NCPOMLE Business Meeting & Discussions
Join the North Carolina Professors of Middle Level Education to discuss issues
pertinent to Middle Level Education from the perspective of universities in the state.
You don’t have to be a member of the organization to attend, just someone interested
sharing in the discussions regarding higher education.
The session will begin with a short business meeting.
President: Dr. Lorae Roukema, Campbell University
Location: St. Andrews
Sunday, March 5, 2017
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Sunday Pre-Conference Sessions
Sunday, March 5, 2017
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
1. CMLA Business Meeting and Networking
Come join CMLA (Collegiate Middle Level Association) members for pre-conference business meeting.
Clubs can hear what other CMLAs do to attract members, the types of service activities these clubs lead,
and various fundraising ideas. Be ready to share!
Leader: Dr. Laurie Ramirez, Appalachian State University
Location: Auditorium II
2. Purple Cows in the Classroom
Creativity. You want to use it while you teach. Your students crave it to learn. But there’s one problem –
the learning standards! They’re boring. They’re dry. They’re ordinary.
Purple Cows in the Classroom gives you secrets, tools, and tips that will
bring creative color to objectives you are required to teach. You don’t have
to be boxed in by state mandates. Teachers are not robots carrying out
commands. They are artists. Your kids have the right to see your art. And
you have the responsibility to color it. It’s time for you to go purple on your
lesson plans.
Presenter(s): Justin Ashley
Location: Auditorium III
3. Embrace Inquiry-Based Learning to Accelerate and Sustain Critical Thinking in Any Classroom
Discover the 5 Standards of Authentic Instruction, an instructional framework necessary in any effective
inquiry-based learning environment, that engages students in using their minds
well. These standards yield meaningful learning for all students that results in
authentic student achievement. Join me for a brisk-paced, interactive experience
intentionally designed to reinvigorate and revitalize, affording every educator in
attendance the opportunity to reimagine teaching and learning in their very own
classroom, school, or district.
Presenter(s): Lee Hunter
Location: Auditorium IV
8
4. The Brick Math Series: Using LEGO Bricks to teach math concepts
The Brick Math Series is about engaging and motivating math students
through the use of LEGO Bricks. The series is a 10-book series designed from
K-8 to provide activities with the brick using a teacher resource and a student
journal. Participants will be provided with handouts and will participate in
activities from the series designed for grades 5-8 learners. The session will be
action packed!
Presenter(s): Shirley Disseler
Location: Meadowbrook
5. Schools to Watch Visitation Training
STW or Re-Designation recipients serve as members of the North Carolina Schools to
Watch state committee by completing the annual training (activities include reading
applications, visiting potential North Carolina Schools to Watch sites, coaching future applicants,
etc.). Upon completion of the training, new trainers will be grouped with experienced trainers to
go on STW selection and Re-Designation visits. Members of the NC School to Watch
Committee will provide training. This session will also facilitate networking with other Schools
to Watch.
Presenter(s): Cathy Tomon, Laura Corraro
Location: Auditorium IV
Schools to Watch 2016-2017 Designees
New Schools
Ellerbe Middle
Rockingham Middle
Newton-Conover STEM Middle
Re-Designation
I
 Charles W.
Stanford Middle
 Mt. Airy Middle
Re-Designation
II
Re-Designation III
Re-Designation IV
 Rogers-Herr
 Carmel Middle
Middle
 East Yancey
 West Pine Middle
Middle
 Thomas Jefferson  Jay M. Robinson
Middle
Middle
 McGee’s
Crossroads Middle
 Piedmont Open
Middle
 Chowan Middle
9
NCMLE Celebrates Our “Schools to Watch”
NCMLE, in collaboration with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and the National
Forum to Accelerate Middle Grades Reform, is proud to recognize our Schools to Watch! These schools
have demonstrated high levels of performance in areas of academic excellence, developmental
responsiveness, social equity, and organizational structure. We encourage you to contact and visit these
schools, and to consider applying for recognition this fall. Visit www.ncmle.org for more information.
Current Schools to Watch, Year of Recognition and Designation:
2003
****Ashe County Middle School
****Rugby Middle School
2004
****East Lincoln Middle School
****John Griffin Middle School
****South Charlotte Middle School
2005
****Carmel Middle School
****East Yancey Middle School
****Jay Robinson Middle School
2006
***Alexander Graham Middle School
***Mint Hill Middle School
2007
***Carrington Middle School
***Flat Rock Middle School
***Thomas Jefferson Middle School
2008
***Rogers-Herr Middle School
***West Pine Middle School
2009
**Apple Valley Middle School
**Crestdale Middle School
Schools to watch are required to submit applications and be reevaluated every three years to keep
their STW designation
*Re-designation I – maintained status 3 years
**Re-designation II – maintained status 6 years
***Re-designation III – maintained status 9 years
****Re-designation IV – maintained status 12 years
10
North Carolina Association for
Middle Level Education
42nd Annual Conference
Engage, Ignite, Empower!
Pass it on!
Opening General Session I
(Please wear your name badges)
Monday, March 6, 2017
Guilford Ballroom A-C
8:30 AM - 9:45 AM
Welcome
Betty Terrell , President, NCMLE
Introduction of All Schools to Watch
Cathy Tomon, Chair, NC Schools to Watch
2003 to 2017
Keynote Address
Jack Berckemeyer
Closing
Betty Terrell, President, NCMLE
Thank you for all you do for young adolescents!
11
VISIT THE EXHIBIT Hall!
Find the latest in middle level textbooks, supports, instructional materials, fundraising ideas,
resources and products especially for middle level educators in our Exhibit Hall! Don’t miss out
on this great opportunity to interact and partner with great organizations.
Our exhibitors are an important part of our conference.
Please visit them throughout the conference, and be sure to say a special, “Thanks” to them for
attending.
Door prizes will be given away Monday at 1:10 pm and Tuesday at 10:55 am!
GREAT door prizes will also be given out at 10:00 pm
@ the Fifth Season!
Must be present to WIN!
Session One
Monday, March 6, 2017
10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
101. Seven Steps to a High Achieving Classroom
This session will examine 7 steps to a high achieving classroom. We will discuss how to be a
change agent in your classroom. We will look at honest reflecting, guiding principles, and adding
to your bag of tricks. Every teacher wants his/her classroom to be well managed, engaging, and
effective. Join me to find ways to enhance or improve your practices.
Presenter(s): Suzan Lambert
PD Squared
Location: Arrowhead
12
102. Stop Preaching, Start Teaching! Evidence-based classroom management that Works!
Do you teachers spend more time 'preaching' to their students instead of 'teaching? Are the stress
levels of the student, teacher, and administration escalating to the point of no return? Participants
in this session will receive concrete evidenced-based strategies that can be used immediately!
Learn the essential tools and strategies you need to stop 'preaching' to your students, and starting
'teaching' them.
Presenter(s): Dr. Vanessa Alford
Worcester County Alternative Learning Center
Worcester County Public Schools
Location: Grandover West
103. Schools to Watch Showcase: Rogers-Herr Middle School
Rogers Herr Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Rogers Herr Middle School
Location: Auditorium II
104. Schools to Watch Showcase: Ellerbe Middle School
Ellerbe Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Ellerbe Middle
Location: Auditorium III
105. Is a school turn-around possible? Learn how we ARE doing it now!
This session will highlight some of the ways we are changing the culture at Knox Middle and
positively impacting the students at our school. We have improved student attendance by 33%
over two years and are on pace to improve teacher attendance by 40%! Our school was finally
removed from the state's "low performing" list and we received an exceeds growth rating. This is
not by accident - rather it is by design and the hard work of our entire school community. We
will share ways we have worked to improve staff culture, student culture and academic
achievement.
Presenter(s): Michael Waiksnis, Christopher McNeil
Knox Middle School
Rowan Salisbury
Location: Auditorium IV
13
106. Differentiation through Modifications and Accommodations
Meeting the needs of diverse learners is a challenge all educators encounter daily. Through
active engagement, teachers will learn the difference between modifications and
accommodations and when to provide each to their students. Direct instruction will be provided
on how to differentiate instruction by implementing different types of modifications and
accommodations based on individual education needs. Best practices for coteaching and meeting
the diverse needs of students will be embedded throughout the session. The interactive training
will include real world student work samples, take-away documents to incorporate and modify
research based strategies for all learners.
Presenter(s): Kristyn Butts, Ms. Amanda Pelch
Northwoods Park Middle School
Onslow County Schools
Location: Augusta A
107. Safely ENGAGE in Science- without Breaking the Bank!
Teaching Science for the first time? Not comfortable conducting experiments? Learn how to
easily incorporate content into hands-on, engaging activities while gaining tips on getting
materials without spending your money, how to maintain classroom control and safety. Plus, get
other tips to remedy the Science teacher’s struggles!
Presenter(s): Michelle Vuncannon, Faith Mangum
Western Harnett Middle School
Harnett County Schools
Location: Augusta B
108. Dance in Action: A Cultural Vehicle to Health
In this session we will share an after school program entitled, "Dance in Action". It is an after
school program that gets participants to be active after school while learning multi-cultural dance
and nutrition. We will share how to start a program at your school, how to learn the dances and
how to gain funding for the program.
Presenter(s): Tiffany Fuller, Dr. Jerono Rotich
North Carolina A&T State University
Location: Biltmore
109. Don't Fear: Textual Evidence is Here
Across the content areas, students struggle with effective summary writing and incorporation of
textual evidence in short response questions. Since these two types of writing are deeply
embedded in the reading and writing standards, attend this session for visual strategies to assist
you in addressing these standards and this task!
Presenter(s): Melba Johnson
Thinking Maps, Inc./M. E. Johnson Consulting Services, Inc.
Location: Blandwood
14
110. Supporting Middle School Students on Their Journeys in the Land of the Loss and
Grief
A middle school student’s grief related to a personally significant loss can stem from many
causes other than a death (e.g., experiencing parental separation, divorce, illness, or
imprisonment; moving to a new area and changing schools; dissolving an important friendship;
being bullied or rejected by peers). This presentation will focus on: (a) describing a broad-based
perspective on personally significant loss in the lives of early adolescents; (b) reviewing the
realities, common misconceptions, developmental aspects, and potential psychosocial impacts of
various losses middle school students; (c) discussing proactive post-loss support activities and
intervention methods with loss-affected youths; and (d) providing information regarding lossand grief-related print and online resources.
Presenter(s): Gary Mauk, M. Bruce Garris
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke, School of Education
Location: Colony A
111. Academic Conversations
Academic conversations foster critical speaking and listening skills that allow all learners to
engage in classroom dialogue while developing deeper content understanding. This session will
walk you through strategies to incorporate academic conversations in your classroom for all
learners.
Presenter(s): Adrienne Ciccarello, Brittany Weber
Albemarle Road Elementary School
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Location: Colony B
112. Discussing the Elephants: Moving into Courageous Coaching
This interactive, engaging session will offer multiple strategies for discussing the elephants in the
room--those difficult topics that we are often unwilling to tackle but that must be discussed in
order to increase student achievement. This session is designed mainly for principals,
instructional coaches, and mentors but all are welcome! Bring technology!
Presenter(s): Greg Griffin, M.Ed, NBCT, Catherine Schwoebel, M.Ed
Coats-Erwin Middle School & Highland Middle School
Harnett County Schools
Location: Colony C
113. Not Another Worksheet!
What is Flipping? Flipping is when the teacher films short videos of themselves teaching a
concept. Students watch these short videos at home for homework. The next day in class,
students then practice the material covered in the video. So, the direct instruction piece is now
done at home and the practice of the material is now down in the classroom where the teacher is
able to help. The traditional model is flipped! Since flipping frees up so much more class time,
you need engaging activities (not just worksheets) to have your students participate in to practice
the material. Flipping frees up so much class time. Join us for activities that help us engage our
students!
Presenter(s): Jodi Pearson Christina Wilson Jessie Weaver
East Wake Academy
Location: Grandover East
15
114. Adventures at Space Camp - Problem Based Learning for STEM
Ever wondered what you would learn at a space camp for teachers? In this engaging session you
hear about many of the experiences shared by teachers at the NASA Teacher Academy and see
first hand how they translate to engaging lessons for the classroom.
Presenter(s): Jane Bowser, Jennifer Buck
High Point University
Location: Guilford A
115. Engaging Students with 21st Century Learning
Learn how to create powerful and relevant lessons that will empower and engage your students.
The method is PBI (Project Based Inquiry), the secret is integrating global content. We will
model the lesson format and show you how to adapt the methodology to every standard you
teach.
Presenter(s): Sara Whitaker, Garrett Tomlinson
Location: Heritage
116. NC NTSP + Districts = BT Success
While induction support is provided by school districts, there is a growing need for university
involvement in the process. The North Carolina New Teacher Support Program (NC NTSP) is a
comprehensive induction program offering a research-based curriculum and multiple services
designed to increase teacher effectiveness, enhance skills, reduce attrition among beginning
teachers, and increase student achievement. Participants will learn about the NC NTSP and how
districts can partner for beginning teacher success.
Presenter(s): Misty Hathcock, Dr. Bryan Zugelder, Dr. LaTonya Gaines-Montgomery
UNC Charlotte
Location: Meadowbrook
117. Full STEM Ahead
Incorporate STEM activities into your lessons to enhance
students’ engagement, learning, and application to the real world!
Learn effective ways to use STEM activities while implementing the engineering design process
and North Carolina aligned learning standards for Math and Science.
Participants will actively engage in a STEM challenge. In addition, they will receive at least
seven lessons that have been prepared in advance to use in the classroom.
Presenter(s): Anna Lee Potter, Kimberley Hindman, Angela Raby
Happy Valley School/ Collettsville School
Caldwell County
Location: Morehead
16
118. Curriculum for a Crowded World
As the world population grows from 7.4 billion today to over 9 billion by mid-century, it will be
vital for students to understand the connections between people and our planet. In this workshop,
discover innovative, hands-on/minds-on activities to introduce students to fundamentals of
human geography, including population trends, natural resource use and distribution. Engage in
role-playing simulations, games and cooperative learning challenges that integrate standards for
science, math and social studies. Receive a CD-ROM of activities!
Presenter(s): La Vonne Brown
University of North Carolina, Greensboro
Location: Pebble Beach
119. Tools for Thinking: Reading Strategies Across the Curriculum
Shake up the content area classroom with powerful literacy strategies to implement immediately!
Learn how to ensure students are the ones doing the mental work needed to successfully meet
curriculum standards without creating more work for you! Join us for a hands-on/minds-on
workshop centered on research-proven thinking tools for whole-class and individual student
activities - guaranteed to foster deeper comprehension as student read, write, talk, and draw their
way through texts of all kinds.
Presenter(s): Debbie Linville, Leni Fragakis, 5th grade teacher, The Arts Based School
Salem College
Location: Sandpiper
120. Enhancing Classroom Community through Team Building Activities
Establishing positive classroom communities where students are actively engaged in meaningful
learning with their peers is an integral component of effective middle grades instruction. This
interactive session is focused on how to use team building activities to establish positive learning
communities and engage students in meaningful learning through team building and group
activities.
Presenter(s): Chris Cook
Appalachian State University
Location: Tanglewood
121. Collegial Conversations Around Data
With fluctuations in policy mandates around testing expectations, school districts are seeking to
expand their assessment offerings to provide longitudinal data to be used for curriculum, school
improvement, and teacher evaluation. To fill this need, districts have newly adopted assessments
and administrators are seeking guidance in leading growth focused conversations using the data.
In this interactive session, participants will receive tools for organizing data and participate in
modeled data dialogues which encourage growth characteristics such as reflection, flexibility,
and resiliency.
Presenter(s): Jillian Davidson
Institute for Excellence in Education
Location: Tidewater
17
Session Two
Monday, March 6, 2017
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
201. Game Show Classroom
Description: Do you want to start every class with fun, engaging games and awesome learning
techniques with technology? Imagine motivating your students with FREE and easy-to-use
technology. Using websites such as Kahoot, Quizzizz, Quizlet, Socrative, and Flip Quiz. You
can keep your students actively engaged! So bring your phone, computer, or tablet and let's get
to playing!
Presenter(s): Sarah Callicutt
South Stanley Middle School
Stanley County Schools
Location: Arrowhead
202. Decrease Boredom With Increased Movement
Middle schoolers lose focus SO easily, but with some well-placed and welltimed movement in class, you can keep them engaged! Come explore strategies and activities
that can be used across the curriculum and leave with a comprehensive list in hand.
Presenter(s): Mary Hayes, Allison Christman
AG Cox Middle School
Pitt County Schools
Location: Grandover West
203. Schools to Watch Showcase: Rockingham Middle School
Rockingham Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Rockingham Middle
Location: Auditorium II
204. Schools to Watch Showcase: Newton-Conover STEM Middle School
Newton-Conover STEM Middle School has been recognized for using academic
excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to
provide a great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the
practices that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School
to Watch."
Presenter(s): Newton-Conover STEM Middle
Location: Auditorium III
18
205. How to make a rising sixth grade transition program a meaningful community event
for students and parents
Transition to middle school can be difficult. Students are faced with new challenges –changing
classes, locker breaks, having more than one teacher, etc. One school has developed a program to
make this transition a little easier. This session will demonstrate how a school provides a yearly
event that allows students to participate in a variety of activities that bolster self-esteem, improve
time management, organization, and enhance positive attitudes about coming to middle school.
Simultaneously within this program, parenting sessions are held that include parenting tips for
middle school students, 6th grade curriculum, student expectations and home-school
communication. Those in attendance will receive handouts that can be taken back for school
implementation.
Presenter(s): Tim Farrar, Kim Hoyle
Mount Pleasant Middle
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Auditorium IV
206. The Power of Two
During this interactive session, teachers will explore the critical partnership between regular
education and exceptional children teachers. Participants will embrace the power of two,
brainstorming the benefits of shared decision making while cultivating an environment of student
achievement for all learners. Using models of co-teaching from Marilyn Friend and Lynne
Cook's book Interactions: Collaboration Skills for School Professionals, participating teachers
will rotate through interactive stations exploring six co-teaching approaches: One Teach One
Observe, Station Teaching, Parallel Teaching, Alternative Teaching, Teaming, One Teach One
Assist. Participants will leave the session with a portfolio of the six co-teaching approaches.
These approaches can be immediately implemented upon their return to the classroom.
Audience: regular education teachers, exceptional children teachers, co-teaching teams, district
curriculum facilitators, and administrators.
Presenter(s): Tierney Fairchild, Jennifer Beck, NC NTSP Instructional Coach
UNC Charlotte
Southwestern Region
Location: Augusta A
207. How Are We Going to W.I.N.?
Join our teacher leaders, from A School To Watch, to learn about their collaborative process in
creating and implementing Northview Middle School's W.I.N. (What I Need) Program. Gather
ideas and activities to nurture your community of learners during enrichment time. Find ways to
encourage problem solvers and critical thinkers while building positive relationships and helping
students make connections to the school community.
Presenter(s): Stephanie Dischiavi, Courtney Osteen, Erin Roberts
Northview Middle School
Location: Augusta B
19
208. (Card)iovascular Fitness
In this presentation, we will make mathematics and cardiovascular fitness bridge together to
create innovative fun! This will be done by utilizing hula-hoops, two decks of cards, music,
white board, and four colorful cones.
Presenter(s): Allegra Seegars
Allen Jay Prep Academy ( North Carolina A&T University)
Location: Biltmore
209. What is Your Math Identity? Reconsidering Equity-Based Practices
This session will have participants reflect on their own mathematical identities and examine how
drawing from their own experiences can benefit students in developing positive
mathematical identities. The session will explore five equity-based mathematics teaching
practices that can help students maximize their learning potential.
Presenter(s): Lisa Ashe, Denise Schulz
NCDPI
Location: Blandwood
210. Incorporating Writing Strategies Into Your Science Classroom
This session will focus on how you can get your students more engaged with scientific writing in
your classroom. Session participants will engage in hands-on activities for writing as well as take
away writing resources that are used within the session. Come and learn some fun and easy ways
to get your students more engaged with scientific writing within your classroom.
Presenter(s): Rebecca Burns
Githens Middle School
Durham Public Schools
Location: Colony A
211. Engaging Students, Igniting Learning, Empowering Leaders through Literacy!
Do you want innovative ways to teach literacy (reading and writing) in your class? Need ideas
about literacy enrichment and/or literacy intervention? This session will provide participates with
a multitude of activities, tools, and resources for engaging, igniting, and empowering students
through literacy.
Presenter(s): Erin Culpepper Edwards
Carroll Magnet Middle School
Wake County
Location: Colony B
212. DIY Flocabulary: Successful Song Parodies
Flocabulary is a web-based learning program that uses educational music to engage students and
increase achievement. How would you like to learn a similar strategy that is equally as effective,
is proven to engage students within ANY content area, promotes 21st century skills, improves
achievement, is totally FREE, and is EXTREMELY FUN? This session will include a step-bystep guide for how to use student-created song parodies as an instructional tool which will
promote mastery of content-specific vocabulary terms.
Presenter(s): Tanya Krome
Mount Pleasant Middle School
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Colony C
20
213. Alternative Rock
Amp up your instruction and enjoy your new rock star status. It’s much easier than you’d think.
Step one…build your band. Gather a few teachers and your media coordinator. Step two….write
your music. Collaboratively design new learning experiences that enhance student learning. Step
three….hit the stage. Implement the lessons in a new classroom – your media center. Step
four….enjoy the backstage party. Your kids will love it and you will, too.
Presenter(s): Christina Horgan, Annette York
Concord Middle School
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Grandover East
214. The Secret to Outstanding Student Growth/Teacher Effectiveness
Harris Road Middle School has led the district in student growth for the past three years with
average growth index scores in the top ten middle schools in the state – three years in double
digits! Harris Road Middle is also a top performer in student proficiency, proving (repeatedly)
that it is possible to achieve high growth with high achieving students. The secrets to success lie
in the processes used by the teachers (planning, PLCs, curriculum, etc.) that ensure high levels of
teaching and learning happen in every classroom. This session will share the "secret sauce" that
continues to prove successful for our school.
Presenter(s): Tripp Aldredge
Harris Road Middle School
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Heritage
215. Teach With Passion, Manage With Compassion!
Administrators, teachers, counselors, social workers, etc. will enjoy this exciting, fast-paced
session as they learn practical, powerful and proven strategies that can reduce school/classroom
disruptions, increase academic achievement and empower teachers. Using these effective
techniques, educators will be able to teach with passion, manage with compassion!
Presenter(s): Pamela Bouie
Location: Meadowbrook
216. The Bermuda Triangle & The Achievement Gap: What they have in common and
how Middle Level Educators can debunk both
This session will engage participants in a 'real-talk' discussion about the "gaps" that exist, who
created the "gaps" and why educators are the key to eliminating them. Achievement, Equality,
Economic or Opportunity Gap - participants will identify which gaps are real and which just may
be a myth. We will review Expectation Management strategies that can lead to increased success
with student academic and social growth. We will also explore behaviors needed to experience
success in classroom environments impacted by poverty and/or low expectations.
Presenter(s): Alison Coker
Guilford County Schools
Location: Morehead
21
217. "Creating the Dream Team: Effective Tools for PLC & Department Meetings"
This session will focus on how to plan effective and meaningful PLC and Department meetings.
This session will consist of agenda planning, team roles, meeting structure, data digs, and content
planning.
Presenter(s): Corey Barringer, Brittany Chambers, Jessica Faison-Johnson, Shiquita
Johnson, Sashir Moore-Sloan, Alec Virgil, and Dr. Tekeisha Mitchell
Lowe's Grove School of Technology
Durham Public Schools
Location: Pebble Beach
218. Meeting the Needs of All Learners: Implementing a Balanced Math Approach
This session will have an overview of a Balanced Math Framework and how a district is using
this approach in the middle school math classroom. Strategies for how to teach math both
conceptually and procedurally in context to real world will be shared.
Presenter(s): Dr. Mary Beth Roth
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Sandpiper
219. Academic Engagement/Technology
The session provided will be focused primarily on ways to help teachers engage 21st century
learning through proper engagement. I will also be demonstrating creative sources and links
using technology in the classroom.
Presenter(s): Eddie Ford IV
Reid Ross Classical School
Cumberland County
Location: Tanglewood
220. Keep in Touch
This session would focus on the various mediums for keeping in contact with parents. Tools such
as ClassDojo, Remind, & Google Voice will be center to the session.
The session will also discuss the importance of having a web presence for your local community
& the greater internet community. We will cover how having a visible classroom is a great
advantage for your students. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.
will be shared and parsed.
Presenter(s): Julian Wilson
York Chester Middle School
Gaston County Schools
Location: Guilford A
NCPOMLE Annual Members Luncheon
Dr. Lorae Roukema, President
Location: Tidewater
12:30 PM22-1:15 PM
Join us as we pay tribute to a special colleague and friend with
The John Van Hoose Memorial Session
The North Carolina Middle Level Education Association (NCMLE) Conference features
the John Van Hoose invited session each year to continue John’s
legacy. A professor at UNC Greensboro, John established the Middle Grades
Teacher Education Program there, helped launch a strong system of professional
development schools, and served as a doctoral advisor to more than 50 students.
He was a passionate advocate for middle grades teachers and their young
adolescent students, and he had a special heart for those children who felt
disconnected from schooling. John was a nationally recognized leader in the
field and an enthusiastic member of NCMLE, where he served as board member and
president. Additionally, he was awarded the Ken McEwin Award for Distinguished Service.
300. Civic Engagement and Civility in the Middle
Civility requires that we recognize the humanity of others, a key to living peacefully together.
Civility is characterized by respect and empathy, elements perhaps lacking in more ways and in
more venues than ever before. Young adolescents are capable of understanding cause and effect
of problems that impact themselves, their families, schools, and communities. Civic engagement
is one of the surest routes to civility. When we think deeply about issues, formulate plans to
prevent or alleviate them, and then serve in ways that lead to greater knowledge, increased skills,
and improvements in our world, a sense of civility results. Service learning is the ideal vehicle
for the journey toward civic education, civic engagement, and civility. Whether through
traditional service-learning projects or innovative approaches to teaching about the history of our
democracy or opportunities for students to learn to disagree without rancor, dishonesty, or
resorting to personal attacks, we serve students and they, in turn, learn to serve others and
society. Some students come to school without a clear idea of what civility looks like because
they don’t live in the midst of it. Teachers must model civility, orchestrate an environment that
fosters it, and then expect nothing less of students. (Session includes Resource Packet)
Presenter(s): Sara Davis Powell
Location: Auditorium IV
Time: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Sara Davis Powell is a teacher, from the middle school classroom to teacher preparation as a
professor and chair of Belmont Abbey College’s Department of Education. She is an advocate
for young adolescents, emphasizing a balance of developmentally
appropriate and academically rigorous practice. Sara is actively involved in
local classrooms and the middle school community through facilitation of
professional development, supervision of clinical interns, and research and
writing about middle level issues. Her Pearson textbooks include
Introduction to Middle Level Education (3 rd ed.) and Your Introduction to
Education: Explorations in Teaching (3 rd ed.). She was the recipient of the
2015 Outstanding Professor of Middle Level Education award given by the
National Association of Professors of Middle Level Education. When not
teaching or writing, Sara enjoys spending time with her husband, her four
sons, four daughters-in- law, and three grandchildren.
23
Session Three
Monday, March 6, 2017
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
301. Libraries Aren't Just for English Classes
Learn about books and series that can be used to support multiple curriculum areas.
Presenter(s): Allison Gale, Julie Bacak
Leland Middle School
Brunswick County
Location: Arrowhead
302. Feed Their Hunger, Win Their Minds: Soul Food Even Your Most Challenging
Students Can’t Resist!
Even soda, candy, and flaming hot fries won’t fully satisfy the appetites of today’s most
challenging students. You may be fed up, but don’t give up! Come to this session to discover
what the Top 5 Basic Student Needs are, how to feed them, and what to do to flip the behaviors
that mask them. You will walk away with the right ingredients to feed both their inner hunger
and their minds, ultimately creating a satisfying culture of excellence for deeper and more
meaningful learning!
Presenter(s): Sommer Jones
Hopewell City Public Schools
Location: Grandover West
303. Schools to Watch Showcase: Carmel Middle School
Carmel Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Carmel Middle School
Location: Auditorium II
304. Schools to Watch Showcase: East Yancy Middle School
East Yancy Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): East Yancy Middle
Location: Auditorium III
24
306. Teaching Empathy in the Middle: Values in the Forefront
Why is it so important to teach middle school students about empathy? By being taught about
empathy, can students grow as human beings and improve as readers and writers? Is empathy the
"glue" that connects person-to-person? If all of us looked at the individual members of our
school community as another "I" versus the "other", would we have fewer problems with, for
example, bullying? These questions will be answered in this interactive session. Practical
solutions as well as diverse, multi-political, and specifically differentiated reading materials and
lessons will be included to help students see the brother and sisterhood of humankind -- and read
better. This workshops flows from my dissertation and my scholarship on the
educator/philosopher Dr. Edith Stein.
Presenter(s): Pamela Fitzpatrick
C. W. Stanford Middle
Location: Augusta A
307. Web Your Way to Creating Digital Webquests & Virtual Field Trips
Take your Classroom on an adventure without leaving your classroom! Technology in your
classroom can enable students to experience the world through a guided, content rich
environment that garners engagement and learning on a whole new level. And guess what? You
do not need a 1:1 learning environment to do it.
Presenter(s): Teika Clavell, Richard Jones
Gray's Creek Middle School
Cumberland County Schools
Location: Augusta B
308. Accelerating Academic Language to Address the Common Core
This session will examine the importance of explicitly teaching Academic Language in the
classroom. We will present specific strategies that are being used in middle school classrooms
across the state. Our session will also include how to coach teachers to implement academic
language in their lessons. You will hear from several middle school teachers who are in the
trenches and how they incorporate academic language into their daily teaching routines.
Academic Language is very important in the Common Core and the strategies presented will
improve your classroom practices. Come join us.
Presenter(s): Suzan Lambert, David Marshal, Whitney Crismore, Elizabeth Jordan,
Tara Chappell-Powell
PD Squared
Location: Biltmore
309. Out of Copies? We're Here to Help!
If you are short of copies but still need the students to do work, come to this session. We can
help! We will show you how to create your own activities that do not use a lot of paper but still
get the material across to your students.
Presenter(s): Dawn Brown, Sarah Rash
North Lincoln Middle School
Lincoln County
Location: Blandwood
25
310. Effective Teachers and Effective Teaching beyond the Science Methods Classroom
The purpose of this research was to address the goal of improving teacher efficacy by building
on data collected from a preliminary pilot study that demonstrated a positive change in preservice teacher belief in their confidence by increasing opportunities for teaching inquiry based
science lessons for all university pre-service students. As a result of multiple pre-service teaching
experiences grounded in this study the pre-service teachers will be able to impact K-6 student
achievement on the state science assessment.
Presenter(s): Barbara Butler
North Carolina A&T State University
Guildford County
Location: Colony A
311. Construct a Box - Uncover and Discover Geometry Part I of II
Transform greeting cards into boxes to discover and refine geometry concepts and definitions,
make conjectures, and answer probing questions about parallelograms, rectangles, squares, and
quadrilaterals. Utilize ratio, proportion, area, and volume to focus on the relationships among
those concepts while participating in this highly interactive hands-on activity to bring back to
your classroom. This activity transfers well for use in events outside of the regularclassroom
with parents alongside students.
Presenter(s): Nicholas Restivo
MoeMS® - Mathematical Olympiads for Elementary & Middle Schools
Location: Colony B
312. Wildly Important Goals: What is Your Strategic Bet to Move Student Achievement
Forward?
Interested in strengthening your culture? There are 2 things you can influence to produce results:
strategy and execution. Join us for the 4 Disciplines of Execution; focusing on the wildly
important, acting on lead measures, keeping a compelling scoreboard and creating a cadence of
accountability. Many educators struggle to translate their strategic concepts into success. Using
these 4 disciplines, every team member has a clear role to play, is measured on it, and can
celebrate his/her contribution. This approach is a how-to manual for teams committed to
achieving their goals.
Presenter(s): Brent Anderson, Susanne Long
Onslow County Schools
Location: Colony C
313. Development of a Fit Lab
Learn to create a fitness program, that students will be excited to attend. Use this as a new
specialized class or as a part of your PE program. The program's focus is on how to use muscle
weight to improve cardiovascular endurance, as well as muscle endurance and strength. Learn
creative ways to fund your own room, and create a safe and orderly environment designed for
middle school students interested in becoming a more physically educated individual.
Presenter(s): Kimberly Williams
Crestdale Middle School
Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools
Location: Grandover East
26
314. The “New” Middle School Model: Are you meeting the needs of your students?
Is your school’s master schedule working for your students/staff? Do your teachers have
equitable teaching/planning time? Do your students have a wide variety of exploration/curricular
choice (world languages, arts, CTE)? Do all students have access to healthful living every day?
Are you preparing students for life and work in the 21st century? How does your school
transform adolescents from elementary to high school? Learn how one school met the unique
challenges in middle grades education.
Presenter(s): Tripp Aldredge
Harris Road Middle School
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Heritage
315. Using Technology to Enhance Reading
This session will provide teachers with resources to implement digital literature circles and other
technology ideas that can be used to enhance reading.
Presenter(s): Erica Preswood
University School
Location: Meadowbrook
316. WHAT'S YOUR SUPER POWER?
How can you maximize your effect in the class by capitalizing on your TALENTS!
Presenter(s): Franchesca Gantt
Neal Middle School
Durham Public Schools
Location: Morehead
317. We're All in This Together: Using Primary Sources Across the Curriculum
Do you feel like you’re drowning in the classroom? Great! Have we got a lifeline for you using
Teaching with Primary Sources from the Library of Congress! Let us show you some engaging
lesson plans and give you the resources to create your own high interest lessons that will
incorporate primary sources into every subject. Door prizes and chocolate!
Presenter(s): Angela Johnson, Stacy McClain, Rachel Tallent
Lincolnton Middle School
Lincoln County
Location: Pebble Beach
318. Song Writing 101: Lesson Plans in a Song Format
Writing leads to deeper understanding. Learn how to facilitate a fun songwriting workshop with
your students. Students that engage in standards based song writing further their understanding
for any content. Teachers will leave this session with a song writing lesson plan to use with their
students. Writing deepens students' knowledge, so making the process fun and engaging can lead
to some amazing student work! Attendees will have a blast learning how to write their own song
and will leave ready to facilitate with students!
Presenter(s): LaMar Queen
Locke High School
Location: Sandpiper
27
319. Grants 101-How to Write a Grant
In this session you will learn the basic information that you will need to write a grant for your
school. You will also learn the importance of Universities and Public Schools partnerships and
how these relationships can increase funds for your school.
Presenter(s): Tiffany Fuller
North Carolina A&T State University
Location: Tanglewood
320. Characteristics of Students in Chronically Stressful Situations
That student who creates a diversion when it's time to work... That student who crawls under the
table to cope... That student who is silent, hoping to be invisible. These students weigh heavy
on our souls and know exactly how to push our buttons. In this session, participants will learn to
identify the characteristics of students living within chronically stressful situations, support
teachers working in stressful situations, and provide strategies to keep these students engaged in
the educational process.
Presenter(s): Jillian Davidson, Tracey McKenzie
Institute for Excellence in Education
Location: Tidewater
28
321. How to Become a School to Watch
What does it take to become a School to Watch? This session will provide you the
information on the Self-Evaluation Rubric as well as the Schools to Watch Application.
Presenter(s): Cathy Tomon, Laura Corraro
Location: Auditorium I
Session Four
Monday, March 6, 2017
2:45 – 3:45 PM
401. Creating A Culture Of Literacy At The Middle Level
How one middle school made literacy a focus and how you can as well.
Presenter(s): Suzanne Heim Michelle Cheshire Jennifer Cain and Amanda Cain Dr.
Michael Waiksnis
Knox Middle School
Rowan-Salisbury Schools
Location: Arrowhead
402. Sanity Savers in the Regular and Inclusion Classrooms
As veteran teachers, we have learned a few tricks that allow us a bit more sanity in our
classrooms. Our combined experience of regular education, special education and inclusive
education allows our knowledge to be applied in every classroom. We’ll include classroom
management, group work, homework, procedures, make-up work, more!
Presenter(s): Quinn Pletcher, Heather Parker, Sarah West
Crest Middle School
Cleveland County
Location: Grandover West
403. Schools to Watch Showcase: Jay M. Robinson Middle School
Jay M. Robinson Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Jay M. Robinson Middle School
Location: Auditorium II
29
404. Schools to Watch Showcase: West Pine Middle School
West Pine Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): West Pine Middle School
Location: Auditorium III
405. Developing Functions through Proportional Reasoning
In this session we will discuss how the concept of functions is developed through proportional
reasoning in 6th and 7th grade.
Presenter(s): Joseph Reaper, Lisa Ashe
NCDPI
Location: Auditorium IV
406. The Power of Inclusion in the Secondary Setting
In this session, participants will hear about the power of inclusion from both a student and
teacher perspective. Participants will be given the opportunity to hear what instructional based
practices were most effective based on classroom data including peer mentoring, instructional
techniques and differentiated math lessons. Lastly, participants will hear how inclusion in the
secondary setting has led to successful post secondary transition.
Presenter(s): Meghan LeFevers, Aubrey Bridges
Bessemer City High School
Gaston County
Location: Augusta A
407. What the Flip?
Inverted Lessons, Blended Lessons, Flipped Classroom… “What is the Flip?”
Have your heard of these instructional strategies but do not know where/how to begin???????
Come find out how you can create differentiated self –paced, student driven lessons that will
assist you in making your classrooms more efficient while making connections with your
students.
Presenter(s): Janice Swoope
Reid Ross Classical School
Cumberland County Schools
Location: Augusta B
30
408. Reshaping Students’ Perceptions of Feedback on Writing from Punitive to Productive
There are many reasons current strategies to help students become good at revising written
papers are not fully effective and ultimately fail to help students become independent and adept
at making meaningful changes to written texts. Feedback is good, but without providing specific
strategies for appropriate correction, teachers unintentionally reinforce revision as punitive while
also framing revision as the correction of surface-level errors such as mechanics when revision
should, realistically, include both surface-level and global changes. This presentation provides a
brief history of how the misconceptions about revision were shaped and reinforced and then
provides research-based approaches to help teachers strategically modify instruction that
reshapes students’ perceptions of feedback and revision while also making students more
effective at independently engaging in revision as a meaningful aspect of writing.
Presenter(s): Catherine Elise Barrett
Fayetteville State University
Location: Biltmore
409. Pi-Lingual
There are 10 types of mathematicians: ones that understand binary and ones that don’t. Math has
an underlying language--which can help or hinder student understanding of the overall content.
In this session we will engage in vocabulary activities geared toward increasing student math
vocabulary.
Presenter(s): Anna Coats, 6-7 Math Coach and Johnna Skatell, Instructional Coach
Harnett County Schools
Location: Blandwood
410. “Don’t Shoot the Unicorn!” Happiness 101: How to Develop Your “Anditude”!
What if you found out that happiness is a SKILL… that you can LEARN? Would you want to
know more? Ask yourself: If you are tired, worried, stressed, anxious, or are just mentally
exhausted, how can you give others what you, yourself, don’t have? Hope, joy, resilience, and
self-acceptance…? Answer: “Don’t Shoot the Unicorn!” by learning to develop your
“Anditude”! This presentation will equip middle-level educators to develop the skill of
happiness, empowering educators to lead their students by demonstrating positive approaches in
their own lives and impacting their students with “infectious resilience” as the students learn to
adopt educators’ “Anditudes.” This transformational, uplifting presentation is designed to help
you be empowered and to develop your own emotional health and resilience skills, leading to a
more effective classroom, and a more calm, clear, and effective life!
Presenter(s): M. Bruce Garris, Dr. Gary W. Mauk
Location: Colony A
31
411. Construct a Box - Uncover and Discover Geometry- Part II of II
Transform greeting cards into boxes to discover and refine geometry concepts and definitions,
make conjectures, and answer probing questions about parallelograms, rectangles, squares, and
quadrilaterals. Utilize ratio, proportion, area, and volume to focus on the relationships among
those concepts while participating in this highly interactive hands-on activity to bring back to
your
classroom. This activity transfers well for use in events outside of the regularclassroom with
parents alongside students.
Presenter(s): Nicholas Restivo
MoeMS® - Mathematical Olympiads for Elementary & Middle Schools
Location: Colony B
412. Magic in the Middle
District and school leaders worked collaboratively to move two large middle schools from low
performing status in six months. The effective strategies utilized include: tiered support for
teachers, data rich PLCs, and crucial conversations with teachers and building level leaders.
Presenter(s): Melissa Balknight Glynis K. Brooks
Gaston County Schools
Location: Colony C
413. Presenter(s): CMLA Student Showcase
Pre-Service teachers from teacher preparation programs will share innovative projects, lessons,
and reflections. You can circulate through their posters and chat, gather ideas, and meet college
and university middle grades candidates who will apply for jobs within the next year. Come and
meet your future colleagues at the CMLA Showcase!
Presenter(s): CMLA Student Showcase
Organizer: Dr. Jeanneine Jones, President-Elect, NCPOMLE, UNC Charlotte.
Location: Grandover East
414. Building Positive Community Relationships Through Social Media and Inexpensive
Online Resources
Administrators and teacher leaders will learn how to capitalize on social media and online
resources to build positive community relationships. Learn how to utilize programs such as
Flipagram and SMORE to build relationships, share information and create community
partnerships. Dr. Gross has been using Flipagram to capture picture and videos of students and
teachers for the past 2 years. As a middle school principal, she is averaging 30k view weekly.
SMORE is an online communication tool that is used to create newsletters and flyers.
Presenter(s): Jacob Mabry
Swansboro Middle School
Onslow County
Location: Guilford A
32
415. EXTREME Close Reading
A look into the topic of discrimination and profiling through text including song, video,
photographs, poetry, short story, and nonfiction: Participants will explore a lesson that delves
deep into both text and emotion as they analyze how and if things have changed in our world in
the past 80 years. First a comparison of Bob Dylan's account of Hurricane Carter is compared to
the 2014 Michael Brown case in Ferguson. Participants will also go back even further to the
Holocaust and how it may teach us about the current profiling of Muslim Americans. We will
focus on analysis of the subject matter using high level text-dependent questions and close
reading.
Presenter(s): Kim Lynch, Erin Vertullo, Literacy Facilitator
Crestdale Middle School
Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools
Location: Heritage
416. Co-Teaching in the inclusion ELA classroom
Working with an EC teacher, as a co-teacher, is a new experience for most general education
teachers. However, this shared classroom environment can lead to successful learning outcomes
for the varying needs of your students. Co-teaching includes many different structures and
formats. In this session, teachers will explore data-driven strategies and formats will work best
for their classroom, co-teacher, and self. We will provide ideas and hands-on experiences to help
modify and differentiate your lessons to meet the expansive needs of the multi-level learners and
readers in your ELA classroom.
Presenter(s): Toni Womack, Ms. Jami Burr
West Pine Middle School
Moore County
Location: Meadowbrook
417. Providing a Productive Struggle
Why are students so quick to ask for help? Because teachers are so quick to give them help!
After all, we became educators to nurture children. Our session together will feature both
theoretical and practical frameworks for encouraging students to become risk-takers and
independent thinkers. Participants will leave with classroom structures and strategies that will
help students become proficient problem solvers through providing a productive struggle and
allowing time for students to exhibit perseverance.
Presenter(s): Tracey McKenzie
Institute for Excellence in Education
Location: Morehead
418. The Interactive Classroom
Looking for ways to keep students engaged and excited about learning without the online
element? Attend this session for great strategies that will allow your classroom to stay unplugged
while still keeping your students plugged in!
Presenter(s): Michele Luck
Location: Pebble Beach
33
419. Breaking Out the Box!
"The Escape Room" craze is sweeping the nation. Come learn how to turn your classroom into a
cross-curricular escape experience. Picture a classroom where students collaborate to decipher
codes and riddles, problem solve, and untangle brain-baffling puzzles. Come try your skill and
test your wit at "Breaking Out the Box".
Presenter(s): Aritia Smalls, Kelly Griffin
New Century International Middle School
Cumberland County Schools
Location: Sandpiper
420. Student Resilience in Middle Level Education
With higher standards in place, teachers and administrators face the vital task of building and
maintaining student resilience in middle level education. Growth is achieved by striking that fine
balance between support and challenge. This engaging session will take teachers and school
leaders through some concrete ways as well as "doable" plans to foster student resilience that you
can apply readily in this age of accountability.
Presenter(s): Mitzi Brammer
Saint Louis University
Location: Tanglewood
421. Creating a Vision for Improvement
In this session, the principal and MTSS coordinator at Winkler Middle School, will take
participants through the visioning process they use for program development and improvement.
The school, which is a state model for MTSS implementation, follows a specific process which
allows for stakeholder input, dreaming for a perfect world, application of constraints, and
ultimately, strong program development. They will also explain the processes the school uses
for monitoring implementation and fidelity. This will be an active session where participants
will try this out on something they would like to improve in their schools!
Presenter(s): Michael Williams, Karen Hollar
Winkler Middle School
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Tidewater
Session Five
Monday, March 6, 2017
4:00 – 5:00 PM
501. Current Events Across the Curriculum
Our session focuses on making non fiction reading relevant to today's readers. In our high
poverty, low achieving setting, students aren't exposed to current events on a level through which
they can connect. Our strategies will provide high level current reading material and immersion
across the curriculum in a way that students can glean information.
Presenter(s): Ashley Puckett, Amy Kowalczyk
Lincolnton Middle School
Lincoln County Schools
Location: Arrowhead
34
502. Keeping Male Teachers in the Classroom
This session will concentrate on the challenges for male teachers in the classroom and why they
often leave. The discussion will focus on the tools administrators should utilize to keep noncareer status male teachers invested in middle school.
Presenter(s): Brandon Wilson, Trent Mauney, David Newman
H.E.Winkler Middle School
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Grandover West
503. Schools to Watch Showcase: Thomas Jefferson Middle School
Thomas Jefferson Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Thomas Jefferson Middle
Location: Auditorium II
504. Schools to Watch Showcase: McGee's Crossroads Middle
McGee Crossroads Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): McGee's Crossroads Middle
Location: Auditorium III
505. It’s a M.A.D., M.A.D., M.A.D. World!!
The world around us is full of data. Deep understanding of statistical thinking begins in middle
school. Participants will take a deep dive into the 6th-7th grade progression of MS statistics and
how it supports HS level statistics and beyond. The purpose of this session is to help teachers
develop a deep understanding of statistical thinking as it relates to the statistical process in
middle grades mathematics. Statistical thinking is quite different from mathematical thinking.
The idea of using data to answer a statistical question appears to be a simple concept, however it
requires a great deal of thought and effort to examine statistical data to make inferences about a
larger population. These inferences are largely based on patterns in the data; however, it should
be done considering variation in the data. An intuitive examination of the data can help students
develop an understanding of variability and inference before applying more advanced statistical
calculation. This session is designed to help middle grade teachers understand the overall
statistical process and how establishing a firm understanding in middle grades can help students
to be better consumers of information and how they can use that information to make decisions.
Presenter(s): Lisa Ashe, Robin Barbour
NCDPI
Location: Auditorium IV
35
507. Simple, Quick & Free Tech Tools Smackdown
Can you keep up with the enormous amount of tech tools out there? Do you have the time to
know what works in your classroom? Time? Who are we kidding?So come on in to quickly learn
and assess what tech tools would make your life easier and better yet, get your students to learn
and use. A tech smackdown in how I use Blendspace, MySimpleShow, Blabberize, Quizizz,
ThinkLink, Remind, Bloomz, EdPuzzle, ShowMe, MasteryConnect, and maybe a few more :)!
Presenter(s): Denise Vargas
Holly Grove Middle School
Wake County
Location: Augusta B
508. Write! Write! Write! Implementing Writing Circles, Writing Workshop Model and
Writing Portfolios Across Content Areas
Writing across the curriculum is important. This session will provide resources and models of
how to manage and organize "Writing Circles" in your classroom no matter what content you
teach. Our school-wide writing portfolio model will be shared as well as how to begin
implementing a successful writer's workshop across disciplines. Student work samples will be
shared as well.
Presenter(s): Justine Daniel Elizabeth Clary
Sherwood Githens Middle School
Durham Public Schools
Location: Biltmore
509. Math Fact Fluency – the Building Blocks for Math Concept Success
Students with automatic recall of math facts are more capable problem solvers, learn new math
skills more quickly, and are more likely to succeed in all math courses. Unfortunately, many
students spend too much time and brainpower trying to recall facts and get frustrated with math.
Implementing targeted fluency instruction along with fluency development games increase
student confidence and renew excitement for math. Join us for engaging, effective and fun
strategies that build strong math fact fluency foundations for success in math.
Presenter(s): Thom O’Brien
ExploreLearning
Location: Blandwood
510. Inspire or Else: Winning Strategies for the Transformative Educator
Many diverse student learners are highly unmotivated, have been traumatized by past classroom
experiences, hate school, and have relatively little family support. Essentially, Inspire or Else is a
call to return to the fundamentals of rapport building and socio-cultural approaches to
establishing dynamic, life-changing connections with the students we spend most of our time
with.
Presenter(s): Rangel McLaurin
Reid Ross Classical School
Cumberland County
Location: Colony A
36
511. Using Aurasma for Language Arts
Learn how to use Aurasma for your Language Arts classroom. Aurasma is a great tool for
conducting book talks and presentations. Participants will learn how to use the Aurasma app and
website, how to upload content and view published presentations on their phone or tablet.
Presenter(s): Rheta Meyer
Swansboro Middle School
Onslow County
Location: Colony B
512. Building Positive Community Relationships Through Social Media and Inexpensive
Online Resources
Administrators and teacher leaders will learn how to capitalize on social media and online
resources to build positive community relationships. Learn how to utilize programs such as
Flipagram and SMORE to build relationships, share information and create community
partnerships. Dr. Gross has been using Flipagram to capture picture and videos of students and
teachers for the past 2 years. As a middle school principal, she is averaging 30k view weekly.
SMORE is an online communication tool that is used to create newsletters and flyers.
Presenter(s): Jacob Mabry
Swansboro Middle School
Onslow County
Location: Colony C
514. Creating Family School Partnerships at the Middle School
Are you struggling to find parents and community members who have a vested interest in your
school? If so, this session will teach you how to create an Action Team for Partnerships (ATP),
consisting of families, teachers, and community members who will lead the way to improving
your stakeholders' level of involvement.
Presenter(s): Crystal Howard
Swansboro Middle School
Onslow County
Location: Heritage
516. Changing Behavior, One Behavior At A Time
Behavior issues at the middle level can be a nightmare IF teachers don’t have the right tools to
handle this challenging age group. Begin diffusing misbehavior before it becomes a major
problem. Learn how to re-claim your instructional time through proven, practical strategies that
go beyond theory and that will work for you immediately. Teach students what you expect from
them and get what you expect through the use of a precise behavior teaching model. These are
real tools for real middle school teachers.
Presenter(s): Brenda Prestage
Location: Morehead
37
517. Save the Children...and Yourself
Strategies that can be used the next day in class that are motivating and engaging for students
and teacher. Maximize student's growth and individual success. Learn the easy way to use the
strategies that include as many multiple intelligences and modalities of learning as possible.
Presenter(s): James McNeil
Wheatland Middle School
Retired-School District of Lancaster (PA)
Location: Pebble Beach
518. Differentiating in the Classroom with Technology Infused Stations
Participants will learn how to incorporate meaningful math learning stations infused with small
group instruction as well as student led and individualized instruction.
Presenter(s): Camilia Smith, Amber Spargo
York Chester Middle School
Gaston County Schools
Location: Sandpiper
520. Lesson Imaging In Math and Science
This session is geared towards STEM teachers, coaches, and their administrators who want to
learn the characteristics of good STEM tasks and a way of planning for inquiry STEM
discussions. It includes time to explore how to set up successful PLCs as well as the types of
resources needed from administrators to support planning for inquiry STEM lessons.
Presenter(s): Dr. Michelle Stephan, Julie Cline, Chris Cline
UNC Charlotte, C. C. Griffin Middle School
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Tidewater
38
39
40
Session Six
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
8:30 – 9:30 AM
601. "This Session is on Fire" Ignite Learning Through Technology
“We got our feet on the ground and we’re burning it down” with the hottest of the hot new tech
tools to help you ignite learning in your classroom. Teacher tested and student approved, we are
back for the 5th year in a row to deliver to you the best in FREE tech tools for your classroom!
From tech beginners to tech experts we have a variety of tools that will help you and your
students set off a spark that will light up your approach to teaching and learning.
Presenter(s): Ashleigh Buie, Hayley Gordon M.Ed., Amber Peele M.Ed.
Hamlet Middle School
Richmond County Schools
Location: Arrowhead
602. Be Nice
In the movie Roadhouse, starring Patrick Swayze as John Dalton, a local bar has a problem.
Customers are becoming increasingly rowdy. Sounds like some of our classrooms, right? John
Dalton is a mysterious stranger who is hired as a bouncer to help get things in order in the bar. In
training the rest of the crew at the bar he tells them to…”Be Nice”. In my session we will discuss
classroom discipline and how to “Be Nice” and not take things personally, which when we do
often leads to an escalation in negative behaviors in the classroom environment.
Presenter(s): Julian Wilson
York Chester Middle School
Gaston County Schools
Location: Grandover West
603. Schools to Watch Showcase: Piedmont Open Middle School
Piedmont Open Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Piedmont Open Middle
Location: Auditorium II
604. Schools to Watch Showcase: Chowan Middle School
Chowan Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Chowan Middle School
Location: Auditorium III
41
605. Building a "Superior" Middle School Performing Arts Program
Arts involvement teaches children many skills necessary to succeed in life, including problem
solving and decision making, building self-confidence and self-discipline, the ability to imagine
what might be and to accept responsibility for it, teamwork, the development of informed
perception, and articulating a vision. Hoping to capture these ideals for our students, Harris Road
Middle School boasts an incredible performing arts program that encompasses a comprehensive
band program (ability-based bands, jazz ensemble, pep band, winter guard, and chamber groups);
comprehensive choral program (ability-based SAB choirs, women’s chorus, and state-champion
show choir); and our new Global Music course. Hear how we are building on traditions of
excellence and adapting and growing programs of the future.
Presenter(s): Tripp Aldredge, Andrew and Molly Blair, Jody-Kay Skeen, Kathryn Smith
Harris Road Middle School
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Auditorium IV
607. Cyclical Learning to Close the Gap
Have you ever wondered how your students will retain everything necessary to be successful? In
this session we will talk about the benefits of stations within your classroom and how to
regularly revisit previously taught material without hindering your schedule.
Presenter(s): Kristy Rowland
Rogers Herr Middle School
Durham Public Schools
Location: Augusta B
42
608. What's the Big Idea Anyway? Aligning Social Studies Teaching to the Concepts of the
NC Essential Standards
Alignment DOES make all the difference! If we are not teaching to the "concepts" and "big idea
understandings" of social studies, we are possibly not teaching an aligned curriculum. This session will
build upon the theme: Engage, Ignite, and Empower...Pass it On!! by exploring the benefits of the
"Learning Paradigm" to the "Instruction Paradigm". Although our time will be short, please come
prepared to engage in a research-based discussion and several brief activities designed to help build your
understanding of how alignment to the conceptual language of social studies DOES make all the
difference in improving learning in middle school social studies classrooms.
Presenter(s): Michelle McLaughlin
NCDPI
Location: Biltmore
609. Spark Student Dialogue: Use Common Core Math Songs to Engage Students in
Meaningful Discussions
Using music to engage, motivate, and teach can be a powerful tool when used effectively. During
this session teachers will learn about research that supports using hip hop music in the classroom
and how to implement effectively. Teachers will gain access to strategies that increase students'
depth of knowledge along with strategies to keep students engaged in meaningful math
conversations.
Presenter(s): LaMar Queen
Locke High School
Green Dot
Location: Blandwood
610. One Book, One School
One problem – the learning standards! They’re boring. They’re dry. They’re ordinary. Purple
Cows in the Classroom gives you secrets, tools, and tips that will bring creative color to
objectives you are required to teach. You don’t have to be boxed in by state mandates. Teachers
are not robots carrying out commands. They are artists. Your kids have the right to see your art.
And you have the responsibility to color it. It’s time for you to go purple on your lesson plans.
Presenter(s): Julie Bacak, Allison Gale
Leland Middle School
Brunswick County Schools
Location: Colony A
43
611. Engaging and Empowering Readers Through Technology
Ignite, engage and empower your scholars to become 21st century learners through technology
use in the ELA classroom. Learn ways to incorporate a variety of technology resources, such as
Google Docs, Google Forms, Google Classroom, Google Drawings, Google Slides, Kahoot,
Quizlet, Nearpod, and Verso to ignite interest in ELA topics, engage in collaborative thinking,
and empower students to take control of their own learning.
Presenter(s): Heather Branscome, Ashleigh Kehl
Tyro Middle
Davidson County Public Schools
Location: Colony B
612. EMPOWERING TEACHERS WHILE STRENGTHENING THE CLIMATE AND
CULTURE OF YOUR SCHOOL.
Strategies and ideas to engage and empower your staff, build morale and strengthen the climate
and culture of a Low Performing Title 1 school.
Presenter(s): Amy Holbrook, Deon Kennedy
York Chester Middle School
Gaston County
Location: Colony C
613. No is that TRUE?! -- Dispelling Science Misconceptions with Simulations!
Why is it hotter in the summer? Which falls faster- a golf ball or ping pong ball? What gives a
sled more energy—more weight or starting higher up on a hill? Many of us have incorrect
assumptions about science concepts---- join us for a fun and informative session on how
simulations help dispel many common misconceptions!
Presenter(s): Thom O’Brien
ExploreLearning
Location: Grandover East
614. Achieving and Maintaining High Student Growth .
For three consecutive years, H.M. Arndt Middle School has ranked in the top 5% of all North
Carolina schools for EVAAS growth score (top 1% in 2015). The school identified several
factors that were crucial in achieving and maintaining high growth. A focus on fundamental
instructional practices, literacy strategies, and high expectations have been the primary sources
of the school's success. These practices and others will be discussed in this session.
Presenter(s): Lee Miller
Harry M. Arndt Middle School
Catawba County
Location: Heritage
44
615. "Cross Training with The Arts"
Did you know that there are similarities between going to the gym and going to school? Come
and Learn instructional strategies that will develop your students educational muscles, and how
to facilitate and enliven learning of other subjects by cross training with the Arts. Teachers Do
Not have to be Artistic!
Presenter(s): Janice Swoope
Reid Ross Classical School
Cumberland County Schools
Location: Meadowbrook
616. Classroom Misbehavior - Ignitng and Engaging Students - For the Wrong Reasons
The most overlooked misconception in education today is students come to school with the
social skills needed for learning to take place. Research shows an average classroom teacher
loses between five to nine hours per week dealing with low-level pesky behaviors. Frustrated by
students' misbehaviors? Dealing with discipline matters taking up valuable teaching time? I'll
share some core beliefs and introduce you to theories that help you understand the impact of low
level inappropriate behaviors on your students and classroom. Learn "8:00 Monday morning"
research-based strategies of a fair and simple classroom management system that will eliminate
unwanted behaviors by 70% or more. Learn the essential steps of teaching to expected behaviors
and discover the benefits and the importance of positive interactions with your students. Learn
how to dramatically increase the amount of time you spend on instruction and decrease the
amount of time giving multiple warnings and repeated requests to stop misbehavior. Learn how
investing extra time in your students at the beginning of the year increases the amount of time
you have for instruction throughout the year. Reduce your and your students' stress level while
creating a working relationship that is built on caring and respect.
Presenter(s): Peter Vajda
Center for Teacher Effectiveness
Location: Morehead
617. A Historical Lens: Visual Literacy in the Social Studies Classroom
We have all heard the old adage "A picture is worth a thousand words". In this session we will
look at the value of using visuals in the Social Studies classroom. Participants will explore three
different strategies to help build students' ability to critically interpret, analyze and make
meaning of images, including historical artwork, political cartoons and photographs.
Presenter(s): Heather Stark, Jenni Thompson
Crestdale Middle School
Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools
Location: Pebble Beach
618. Infusing Fun into Middle School
Are you looking for ways to bring fresh energy and fun into your school?Gamewell Middle
School will share our club and mini club structure that has renewed student energy and interest
by allowing students to participate in clubs designed around their interests and teacher interests.
Come and learn about how to impact the culture of your school!
Presenter(s): Anna Crook and Monica Martin
Gamewell Middle School
Location: Sandpiper
45
619. Keeping Your Eyes on the Prize: Teaching Diverse Populations in a Time of Unrest
This session will discuss the “designs” of student learning experiences that improve productivity
for student learning, especially in high poverty settings. Topics of discussion include: visible
learning – getting the most from your students and threading social justice and culturally relevant
teaching across pedagogy and curriculum.
Presenter(s): Jamon Flowers
Virginia Tech
Location: Tanglewood
620. Instructional Coaching in PLCs
This session will focus on instructional leadership/coaching within professional learning
communities (PLCs). The presenter will share the process for PLC coaching used in her district.
This presentation will include professional development provided to administrators and teachers
over the past three years, helpful materials for goal setting and individual work, and ideas on
how to effectively “move” PLCs toward alignment and adherence to the PLC process.
Presenter(s): Leanne Havely
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Tidewater
Session Seven
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
9:40 AM – 10:40 AM
701. EDTPA: ideas for pre-service teachers
EDTPA is a portfolio assessment that preservice teachers must complete as part of their teacher
licensure program. This presentation provides advice and opportunities for participants to share
and ask questions about preparing for, implementing, and writing to the standards.
Presenter(s): Nancy Ruppert
University of North Carolina at Asheville
Location: Arrowhead
702. Improve Your AIM on School Improvement
There is no need to reinvent the wheel when we can learn from High Performing, Rapidly
Improving, and High Reliability schools that produces results. This session will help schools
identify realistic characteristics & practices to consider in their journey to increase staff capacity
for the sake of improving student learning. Intentional questions and dialogue will prompt the
audience to rethink the way we think about education and consider ideas beyond the traditional
school improvement process.
Presenter(s): Norman McDuffie
AG Cox Middle School
Intentional IMPACT
Location: Grandover West
46
703. Schools to Watch Showcase: Charles W. Stanford Middle
Charles W. Stanford Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Charles W. Stanford Middle, Orange County Schools
Location: Auditorium II
704. Schools to Watch Showcase: Mt. Airy Middle School
Mt. Airy Middle School has been recognized for using academic excellence,
developmental responsiveness, social equity, and organizational support to provide a
great experience for our students. In this session we will highlight some of the practices
that helped us earn this recognition. Join us and learn what makes our school a "School to
Watch."
Presenter(s): Mt. Airy Middle, Surry County
Location: Auditorium III
705. We Are Not Invisible, Partnering with Students, Families, Teachers, Administrators,
and Staff of Color
Students, staff and families of color continue to face the same challenges year after year, while
attempting to access the best possible educational environment. Is the socio-emotional cost too
great for administrators, teachers, students, and families of color? Can we be completely present
and not lose ourselves? We are not invisible. Are you prepared to partner with us? Do you have
what it takes to lean in? Students, staff and families of color continue to face the same challenges
year after year, while attempting to access the best possible educational environment. Is the
socio-emotional cost too great for administrators, teachers, students, and families of color? Can
we be completely present and not lose ourselves? We are not invisible. Are you prepared to
partner with us? Do you have what it takes to lean in?
Presenter(s): Barry Davis
Greensboro Day School
Location: Auditorium IV
47
48
706. Recipe for Success: Data Driven Differentiation
Join us for a delicious recipe of how to take all your data ingredients and streamline your
decision making to whip up the perfect meal for each of your students. We will investigate how
to streamline your instructional choices by effectively incorporating technology to quickly
capture and analyze academic and behavioral data to plan for a student centered learning
environment that facilitates collaboration and inquiry based learning.
Presenter(s): Robin Fisher, Ashley Brunner
Spring Lake Middle School
Cumberland County Schools
Location: Augusta A
707. Interdisciplinary Instruction
Looking for a way to teach a concept that involves all content areas? Learn how to make real
world connection for your students through lessons, projects or units.
Presenter(s): Beth Spataro, Kelly Stevens
Rogers Herr Middle School
Durham Public Schools
Location: Augusta B
708. Strategies for Success in Science
Strategies for Success in Science
We would like to share teaching/learning strategies that our Science PLC have used to help our
students have a successful year in 8th grade Science and continue to raise our test scores.
*Vocabulary - How our students use the Frayer card model and Quizlet to increase their science
vocabulary
*AOW - "Article of the Week" providing students with the NC Essential standards
*Test Autopsy reports - Students discover why they made their mistakes
*Discovery Ed - Standards based warm ups/exit tickets and Presentation boards
*EOG project - Students complete a project during 4th Quarter to review all Science content
*EOG Prep - Students work in their NC Ready books daily during the 4th Quarter
Presenter(s): Tawney Parsley, Ms. Megan Easty
Crestdale Middle School
Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools
Location: Blandwood
709. Co-teaching in the Inclusion ELA Classroom
Working with an EC teacher, as a co-teacher, is a new experience for most general education
teachers. However, this shared classroom environment can lead to successful learning outcomes
for the varying needs of your students. Co-teaching includes many different structures and
formats. In this session, teachers will explore data-driven strategies and formats will work best
for their classroom, co-teacher, and self. We will provide ideas and hands-on experiences to help
modify and differentiate your lessons to meet the expansive needs of the multi-level learners and
readers in your ELA classroom.
Presenter(s): Jami Burr, Mrs. Toni Womack
West Pine Middle School
Moore County Schools
Location: Colony A
49
710. Task Card Junkie
Task cards are a great way to keep students on task and actively engaged! This session will show
you what a task card is and how using them allows you to get students out of a desk and
learning! All subject areas and grade levels can use! No technology needed.
Presenter(s): Sarah Callicutt
South Stanley Middle School
Stanley County Schools
Location: Colony B
711. Put it in Drive: Roadmap for Transformation
Join together to learn more about getting out of Neutral and Driving Forward to transform
teaching and learning in your classroom, school, and/or district. Ideas for developing a roadmap
and going the distance will be the basis for discussion and collaboration.
Presenter(s): Tina Mashburn
Rowan-Salisbury School System
Location: Colony C
712. STEM Should be More Than Robotics and Rockets!
Bringing STEM into your classroom should include all aspects of the acronym: Science – How
do you bring hands-on science into your classroom? Technology – What’s the best way to use
technology? Engineering – Can we make engineering ENGAGING for all students? Math – Are
you able to connect everyday math with all of these concepts? Online simulations can make this
happen in an easy, fun and exciting way.
Presenter(s): Thom O’Brien
ExploreLearning
Location: Grandover East
713. I Will Not Scream...I Am the Teacher
I Will Not Scream, I Will Not Scream…I Am the Teacher
Self-management: The Key to Classroom Management
Have you ever felt like screaming just thinking about facing your third period class again? Or
screaming for joy when you learned that Johnny, who knows just how to push your buttons,
would be absent for the rest of the week? Or how about screaming, “I want to be a teacher, not a
member of the Gestapo!” If you identified with any of these sentiments, and if you would like to
spend more time teaching and less time on discipline, then this workshop is for you! As one part
of a complete classroom management program, in this presentation you will learn proven,
scientifically researched strategies and skills that you can immediately employ. If you want to
enjoy being a teacher again, come learn how!
Presenter(s): Trudy Tobias
Transformational Trainings for Teachers
Location: Heritage
50
714. "How to Flip Your Performing Arts Class"
Who said that only math and science teachers are the only ones that can flip lessons and their
classroom? Come find out how you can impact student growth in your performance arts class.
The participant will explore many technological resources and how to use these resources to
create instructional strategies that will assist in connecting performance levels with preparatory
practice, create differentiated self-pace lessons and maximize student teacher interaction.
Presenter(s): Janice Swoope
Reid Ross Classical School
Cumberland County
Location: Meadowbrook
715. How Flexible Are You?
Want to see your scores RISE? Think about it: When is the last time you sat 4-6 hours in a hardbottomed, hard-backed chair, and were expected to concentrate on something other than your
back hurting, your numb feet, or how desperate you were to move? Chances are it's been a while.
Children, especially those with learning difficulties and/or sensory issues struggle to remain
engaged while sitting at a desk all day. This session will focus on the use of functional yet
comfortable spaces for students to utilize as they engage in their work. After all, research has
proven students who are provided flexible seating options remain engaged for longer periods of
time, retain more from instruction, and perform better on assessments.
Presenter(s): Elaina Wingfield
Bethel School
Pitt County Schools
Location: Morehead
716. "The Best Me": Students in the Middle Discover Their Inner Form and Grow as
Readers
Each student has a unique contribution to make in our world (the best they have to offer), and
this reading, writing, and talking project helps students discover their intrinsic traits (inner form)
that makes them who they are. After a process of asking questions and reflecting on core beliefs,
students will willingly read biographies or articles about people who share the traits of their inner
form, and write about commonalities and distinctions. Why? These people are like them. The
educator/philosopher Dr. Edith Stein in the inspiration; this springs from my dissertation.
Presenter(s): Pamela Fitzpatrick
C.W. Stanford Middle
Orange County Schools
Location: Pebble Beach
51
717. School Mental Health Guide for Educators
The public school classroom has evolved into an environment of diverse complexity as physical,
mental, and social health needs and conditions have become paramount priorities, often
overriding academic interventions and tasks. The outcome of the project implementation
translated to an 80% reduction in psychiatric emergencies during the implementation year as
well as the development of a teacher-led student mental health referral system. This session will
provide school administrators and educators with the guidance and tools to integrate this
intervention within their own districts/schools to improve academic, behavioral, and social
outcomes for students with mental health needs, increase and expedite student referrals to student
support school-based professionals, increase the comfort and skill level of educators, as well as
promote school and student safety.
Presenter(s): Yvonne Smith, Nikki Lutton MSW, LCSW, Elisabeth Winkler MA, NCSC
Gardner Webb University
Location: Sandpiper
719. Structures to Support and Personalize Student Success: A Case Study for
Implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support in a Diverse Middle School
In this session, participants will explore the various supports Harold E. Winkler Middle School
has implemented to support all students’ success. This will include a deep discussion of the
paradigm shift the faculty has made over the past three years, including the professional
development plan the administration used to prompt teacher to reconsider their practice. In
addition, we will overview processes that allow us to check in on each student weekly through
academic team meetings. Finally, participants will have the opportunity to examine the protocol
we have put in place to identify struggling students, and provide, track, and evaluate the strategic
academic and/or behavioral interventions used when students do not respond to core instruction.
Presenter(s): Michael Williams, Karen Hollar
Winkler Middle School
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Tidewater
Visit Exhibits
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
10:45 AM – 11:15 AM
Door Prizes given away at 10:55 am!
52
Session Eight
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
801. Unflip the Flip: Flipping your Classroom within your Classroom for Personalized
Learning
Participants will learn how to use the 4 C's of technology integration and the tried and true tools
to build effective student-drive flipped lessons, activities, and instruction for their classrooms
geared to reach every learner.
Presenter(s): Teika Clavell, Richard Jones
NCDPI
Location: Arrowhead
802.You Want to Publish? Fantabulous!
You want your students or your class to publish their work? You want to publish your writing?
This is the session for you, from a published author (three books are international and a new
one). The process is long from the planning to the publishing and with many steps. There are
programs for students and some for adults. Are the students going to sell or keep private? There
are different programs for different purposes (i.e. independent publishing companies or
publishing for schools). With more and more to think about.
Presenter(s): Donna Coco
High Point University
Location: Grandover West
803. The Grandfather Challenge: A unique, new, life-changing experience for youth in
Western North Carolina
The Grandfather Challenge is a series of four professionally-guided day hikes on Grandfather
Mountain for at-risk students ages 13-16. This program is offered by an exciting and emerging
non-profit organization called The Jason Project. In this breakout session, the founders of the
Jason Project, James and Cheryl Nipper, will share the story of the painful loss of their son and
how his memory lives in this engaging outdoor experience. As a result of hard work and
planning by the Nipper family, The Jason Project is able to offer this experience valued at
approximately $500 per participant (two professional guides for four hikes, hiking boots, socks,
maps, packs, meals on the trail, park admission, an awards dinner, and Wal-mart gift cards) at no
cost to participants or sponsoring schools other than costs associated with transportation.
Presenter(s): James and Cheryl Nipper, Chip Cathey, Melanie Sigmon
Location: Auditorium II
53
807. A Journey to School-wide Differentiation
Our middle school has embarked on a journey to implement differentiation school-wide. What
was the impetus? How do we foster a community of differentiation? What steps have we taken
and what are our next steps? Come and find ideas that you can take back to your building.
Presenter(s): Jennifer L.H. Hall, Jennifer Miske
Rogers-Herr Middle School
Durham Public Schools
Location: Augusta B
808. Helping Teens Find Voice in Writing: Focus on Middle School Young Men
Helping Teens Find Voice in Writing: Focus on Middle School Young Men
Why are so many boys and young men dispassionate about school? Could it be related to the
way writing is taught? With proper scaffolding and the judicious use of film clips, we can help
students -- particularly African American and Latino males -- power their writing and find their
resplendent voices. This scholarship is based on a research study I did through Elon University,
and this presentation will include both scholarship and “take away” ideas for classroom use for
boys and men up through the college level. The results of this study have been published in The
Journal of Black Masculinity (2011) and in the textbook The Institution of Education (2013).
Presenter(s): Pamela Fitzpatrick
C.W. Stanford Middle School
Orange County Schools
Location: Biltmore
809. What Gets Monitored, Gets Done: Successful Implementation of Professional
Learning Communities (PLCs)
This session is for administrators who want to learn successful strategies and structures for
implementing effective PLC’s. Creating a PLC Leadership Team and ideas for coaching teachers
through the PLC work with be shared. Participants will also receive PLC monitoring tools and
other resources.
Presenter(s): Dr. Mary Beth Roth
Cabarrus County Schools
Location: Blandwood
810. Mindset Matters
Teaching a growth mindset creates motivation and productivity in the worlds of business,
education, and sports. It enhances relationships. This will help your students begin the journey in
believing in themselves.
Presenter(s): Jeffrey Butrum, Kristin Justice
Stokes School
Pitt County Schools
Location: Colony A
54
811. Play Your A.C.E.: Accountability, Collaboration, and Engagement
Tired of being the only one discussing your content? Ready to get your students involved while
you facilitate? In this interactive session, participants will experience evidence-based strategies
that increase the level of student-centered instruction for all learners through hands-on and
digital activities.
Presenter(s): Kelly Gonzales, Debbie Daurity
Harnett County Schools
Location: Colony B
812. Improve Your AIM on School Improvement
There is no need to reinvent the wheel when we can learn from High Performing, Rapidly
Improving, and High Reliability schools that produces results. This session will help schools
identify realistic characteristics & practices to consider in their journey to increase staff capacity
for the sake of improving student learning. Intentional questions and dialogue will prompt the
audience to rethink the way we think about education and consider ideas beyond the traditional
school improvement process.
Presenter(s): Norman McDuffie
AG Cox Middle School
Intentional IMPACT
Location: Colony C
813. How to Plan STEM based lessons for the edTPA (Teachers Performance Assessment)
This is a session that will review the Planning Task for the edTPA for Science Middle Grades
Preservice teachers and faculty that are new to the process. The Teachers Performance
Assessment is an assessment tool that will be required by the state of North Carolina to evaluate
student interns. I will introduce the edTPA by giving a brief overview of the three tasks
(Planning, Instruction, and Assessment). I will review the major aspects of the Instructional and
Assessment Tasks. In addition, I will provide some tips for completing the edTPA. I will spend
the bulk of the session giving the student interns an in-depth understanding of the Planning Task.
Including how to prepare 3-5 STEM based lesson plans that meet the criteria for edTPA. We will
review the Rubrics for each task.
Presenter(s): Cheryl Horton
North Carolina Central University
Location: Grandover East
814. Learning through a Global Lens: The vehicle to engage your students!
What exactly is global education? What does 21st century learning look like in the classroom?
How can I grow as a global educator and become a distinguished teacher on my NC evaluation?
We want to share the components of successful global schools highlighting Harris Road Middle
School, a designated NC Global-Ready School and how to create this environment in your
classroom and in your school.
Presenter(s): Sara Whitaker, Garrett Tomlinson, Tripp Alderidge
Location: Heritage
55
815. Engage, Ignite and Empower Your Students to Solve REAL Problems
Generate excitement for, and interest in mathematical problem solving among
your students. Energize and enrich your curriculum by encouraging your students
to take risks in problem solving while reminding them that a REAL problem is not
the same as a practice exercise. Teachers will reduce the need to “cram” for any
states’ assessments by utilizing the methods and the types of questions discussed.
Presenter(s): Nicholas Restivo
MOEMS® - Mathematical Olympiads for Elementary & Middle Schools
Location: Tanglewood
816. Interactive Engagement in the Science Classroom
This session will present several methods that can be used to engage the middle school science
student. Interactive notebooking and SAMR technology will be two of the topics covered.
Presenter(s): Carole Hamblin, Mrs. Britnee Reid
York Chester Middle School
Gaston County
Location: Morehead
818. Relationship Building Between Law Enforcement and Students
River Bend Middle School has created and implemented the Sheepdog Program which focuses
on building meaningful relationships between students and law enforcement through mentoring
and esteem-building activities. Officer Morales will share a replicable model that has had a
major impact on at-risk students and the overall school environment. You will leave this session
with fresh ideas on how to use a School Resource Officer to pro-actively foster leadership skills
among your neediest students.
Presenter(s): Victor Morales
River Bend Middle School
Catawba County
Location: Sandpiper
820. Music, Movements, and Methods in the Middle Grades Math Classroom
Exercise/Movement/Singing-in the Math Classroom?
Come to this session to learn how to easily break up the block while helping your students focus
and remember key math concepts. We will share tried and true methods we use to engage our
students to include singing, dancing and moving to turn on the brain.
Presenter(s): Leslie Paytes, Danielle Martin
Crestdale Middle
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Location: Tidewater
56
821. Enhancing Understanding of Healthful Living Essential Standards in North Carolina
Middle Schools
Have you wondered who are the health educators, how are health standards being taught and
what resources are needed to improve health education? Please join this session and hear about
research conducted in 2016 focused on improving health education in North Carolina's middle
schools. Academic achievement improves when children are mentally, emotionally, and
physically healthy therefore effective health education supports children, teachers, and
administrators. Advocate for health!
Presenter(s): Julia Considine
Gillings School of Global Public Health at UNC Chapel HIll
Location: Biltmore
822. Drum Fit: University Style
In this presentation participants will learn how to perform and teach one of the latest exercise
craves using a fitness ball and drum sticks. Drumming on fitness balls is an aerobic exercise
trend that incorporates percussion, which has been shown to stimulate the brain and develop
greater neuron communication. Performed seated or standing, great music, lots of core
movements, and plenty of fun. Come DRUM with us! It will make your day.
Music CD take-aways, while supply lasts
Presenter(s): Gloria Elliott, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Dr. Tiffany Fuller North Carolina A&T State
Dr. Dee Ellis Winston-Salem State University
Location: Pebble Beach
823. They're Done! What Do I Do Next? A Little Bit of This…A Little Bit of That!
Have you wondered what to do with those students who are early finishers? If so, then this is the
session for you! Come to this session to receive a variety of anchor activities aligned to the
Common Core Standards. ALL participants will walk away with ready-to-use resources for
ANY classroom.
Presenter(s): Shanetta Pittman
Weldon STEM High School
[email protected]
Location: August A
824. Re-Thinking Advisory
Intentionality around character, ethics and social emotional development is a must for Middle
Schoolers. Come hear about the organizational details (including teacher buy-in) and sample
lesson plans!
Presenter(s): Kathy Gillespie [email protected]
Micheele Bostian, Head of Counseling
Greensboro Day
Location: Tanglewood
57
Don’t Miss the Excellent Exhibit Hall!
NCMLE Appreciates Our Conference Sponsors!
We would like to thank the following companies for their
sponsorship of events at our conference.
Look for their logos in the program and visit their booths!
College Foundation of North Carolina
High Point University
Please visit their booths in the exhibit hall!
Exhibitors are in the Guilford Ballroom. You are strongly encouraged to visit the exhibit area to
review the many instructional materials, supplies, and programs that are on display. The
following is a list of exhibiting companies, their booth location, and products. This list represents
our exhibitors when the program went to press. More join us in the weeks before the conference.
Be sure to walk through the exhibit hall several times throughout the conference
so you don’t miss anything!
58
Engage, Ignite,
Empower!
Pass it on!
General Session II
(Please wear your name badges)
Tuesday, March 7, 2017
Guilford Ballroom
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Presiding
Betty Terrell, President, NCMLE
Special Recognition
NCMLE Board of Directors
Conference Planning Committee
Lunch
Awards
James Davis, Conference Director
Keynote Address
Principal Baruti Kafele
Introduction of New President
Betty Terrell, President, NCMLE
Closing
Chip Cathey, President-Elect,
NCMLE
59
Kenneth McEwin
Wilma Parrish
Hardy Tew
John Arnold
Nancy Farmer
John Van Hoose
Janice Davis
Bill Anderson
Geraldine Ritter
Tom Ragland
Elaine Boysworth
David Strahan
Theresa Hinkle
Frances Reaves
Mike Ward
John Harrison
Joan Lipsitz
Betty Terrell
Maureen Furr
Marvin Pittman
Bobby Ashley
Ran Barnes
Missy Gabriel
Jodie Graham
Christine Waggoner
Hannah Cabe
Sally Austin
Cathy Tomon
2016-2017 NCMLE Award Winners
School Administrator to Watch
Dr. Tekeisha Mitchell
Central Office Administrator/Supervisor to Watch
Glynis Brooks
Support Person to Watch
Sara Scholer
Teacher to Watch
Scott Cooke
Team to Watch
Knox Middle School Grade 7 Team Harvard
Erik Barton - Science
Carly Cook - Social Studies
Jennifer Cain - ELA
Jamesha Thomas - Math
Institution of Higher Education Person to Watch Award
Dr. Nancy Ruppert
60
Schools to Watch 2016-2017 Designees
New Schools
Ellerbe Middle
Rockingham Middle
Newton-Conover STEM Middle
Re-Designation
I
 Charles W.
Stanford Middle
 Mt. Airy Middle
Re-Designation
II
 McGee’s
Crossroads Middle
 Piedmont Open
Middle
 Chowan Middle
Re-Designation III
Re-Designation IV
 Rogers-Herr
 Carmel Middle
Middle
 East Yancey
 West Pine Middle
Middle
 Thomas Jefferson  Jay M. Robinson
Middle
Middle
Where to Find the Schools to Watch Showcases
61
Lead Presenter Email Contact Information
Map of the Koury Convention Center