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Wednesday, April 9
 

3:00pm EDT

Conference Registration Opens
Wednesday April 9, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Wednesday April 9, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square 300 W Station Square Dr. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

4:00pm EDT

New School Leaders Reception
Wednesday April 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Wednesday April 9, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square 300 W Station Square Dr. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

7:00pm EDT

Welcome and Program by WPSD (Sponsored by Sorenson)
Wednesday April 9, 2025 7:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Sponsored by Sorenson​​​
Wednesday April 9, 2025 7:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Admiral 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
 
Thursday, April 10
 

8:30am EDT

Welcome and Opening Remarks
Thursday April 10, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am EDT
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Carole Clancy

Dr. Carole Clancy

Bureau Director of Special Education, Pennslyvania Bureau of Special Education
Dr. Carole Clancy serves as the Director of Special Education for the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Her extensive experience includes more than twenty-seven years spearheading initiatives in the field of Special Education within her school districts. Ms. Clancy's role is to... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 8:30am - 9:15am EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

9:15am EDT

Keynote: Building Connections That Transform Education
Thursday April 10, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am EDT
Building Connections That Transform Education
In an era of rapid change, how do we bridge the generational gap and cultivate a culture of care, connection, and community in our schools? This powerful keynote by Dr. Jason C. Jones unpacks the evolution of student experiences across generations—from Baby Boomers to Generation Alpha—highlighting how societal shifts, technology, and cultural movements have shaped the way students learn, engage, and navigate the world.

Through a compelling “Confession” moment, Dr. Jones challenges educators to reflect on their own upbringing, biases, and teaching methods, recognizing the importance of adaptability in today’s educational landscape. He explores the unique challenges faced by each generation—ranging from overcrowded classrooms and standardized testing to digital
distractions, cyberbullying, and mental health concerns—and provides practical, restorative strategies to foster meaningful connections with students.

Attendees will gain insights into:
 Understanding generational differences to better support student needs
 Strategies for transforming disconnection into meaningful relationships
 Bridging the gap between traditional and modern approaches to education
 Approaches to cultivate trust, consistency, accountability, and support for student success.

By shifting from control to collaboration, discipline to dialogue, and punishment to partnership, educators can create learning environments where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

This keynote is an invitation to reimagine education through a restorative lens—one that fosters stronger relationships, celebrates diversity, and equips educators with the tools to inspire the next generation.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jason C. Jones

Dr. Jason C. Jones

Director for Leadership Development, Riverside County Office of Education
Dr. Jason C. Jones is a dynamic and visionary leader dedicated to shaping the future of education through leadership development and comprehensive student support services. As the Director for Leadership Development with the Riverside County Office of Education, Dr. Jones specializes... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 9:15am - 10:15am EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

10:30am EDT

The Future Deaf Scientists Program: Creating the Deaf Scientists, Researchers and Clinicians of Tomorrow
Thursday April 10, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am EDT
The Future Deaf Scientists (FDS) program, a collaboration between the University of Rochester Medical Center and the Rochester School for the Deaf, addresses the underrepresentation of Deaf individuals in science and medicine. Deaf students face unique challenges including "Deaf tax," systemic ableism, and limited networking and mentoring opportunities, which the program aims to overcome.
Since its 2021 inception, the FDS program has provided a 4-week summer internship in cancer and STEM fields. The curriculum includes didactics, exposure to Deaf science and medicine role models, and hands-on laboratory and surgery experiences. The program has seen steady and recurring participation with multiple students returning several years in a row.
Notably, the FDS program is the first-ever collaboration between an academic medical center and a bilingual school for the Deaf. Positive outcomes include increased knowledge in science, awareness of Deaf role models, and heightened interest in medicine and science careers. The program has received NIH funding for year-long educational activities at RSD, and to create partnerships between other schools for the Deaf and their local academic medical centers for their own summer programs. The FDS program is a national model for inspiring Deaf students to envision themselves as future researchers, clinicians, and scientists.
Learning Objectives
  1. To learn about the Future Deaf Scientists program and how it may apply to other schools for the Deaf
  2. Learn more about possibilities of partnering with universities, also future opportunities to join the FDS Program
Zoom link:
Topic: CEASD 2025- The Future of Deaf Scientists Program
Time: Apr 10, 2025 10:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/88909099242?pwd=kBrWWw1pxYFyPXiambLUgJZ7gepwac.1

Meeting ID: 889 0909 9242
Passcode: 859395

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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Wyatte Hall

Dr. Wyatte Hall

Assistant Professor of Public Health Sciences, University of Rochester Medical Center
Dr. Wyatte Hall is an Assistant Professor of Public Health Sciences at the University of Rochester Medical Center. He is director of the Visual Language Access and Acquisition lab which focuses on the relationship between early child language experiences and long-term outcomes in... Read More →
AM

Antony McLetchie

Rochester School for the Deaf, Superintendent
Thursday April 10, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am EDT
Grand Station 3-4 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

10:30am EDT

What Should Inclusion and the Least Restrictive Enviroment Look like for Deaf Students?
Thursday April 10, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am EDT
This workshop will explore the concepts of inclusion and the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) in the context of education for Deaf students in California. Participants will gain an understanding why LRE supersedes the general practice of inclusion and Universal Design for Learning approaches for Deaf students. With the recent passing of AB 1938 in California, this workshop will discuss the bill in-depth to gain a better understanding of the true intention of what inclusion means for Deaf students. Ultimately, school administrators want to ensure that Deaf students have equal and equitable access to learning, social interaction, and extracurricular activities. The session will cover legal frameworks such as IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) and how they ensure that Deaf students are educated in environments that best support their academic and social growth while maintaining meaningful communication access. We will also discuss practical strategies for creating inclusive classrooms and fostering collaboration between educators, families, and support professionals to meet the diverse needs of Deaf learners.

Learning Objectives
  1. Participants will analyze the implications of California’s AB 1938, including its goals and how it redefines inclusion for Deaf students.
  2. Participants will explore the legal frameworks, including IDEA, that support the education of Deaf students in LRE settings and ensure equitable access to education.

Zoom link:
Topic: What Should Inclusion and LRE Look Like...
Time: Apr 10, 2025 10:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/89246618466?pwd=obrZCjBX9jUH5LJ0g7pTcMbrwoZShB.1

Meeting ID: 892 4661 8466
Passcode: 618510

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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Nancy Hilbok Amann

Dr. Nancy Hilbok Amann

Director of State Special Schools and Services Division, California Department of Education
Nancy Hlibok Amann, Ph.D., is the Director of State Special Schools and Services Division at the California Department of Education. She oversees the California School for the Deaf-Fremont, the California School for the Deaf-Riverside, the California School for the Blind in Fremont... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 10:30am - 11:15am EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

11:30am EDT

Pathways Through Uncertainty: Planning for a Sustainable Future
Thursday April 10, 2025 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
The landscape of deaf education in America is changing.  To remain the first choice for deaf and hard of hearing students nationwide, schools for the deaf across the country must navigate these evolving times with innovation and strategic planning.  Since 1817, the American School for the Deaf (ASD) has remained at the forefront by maintaining a pulse on the emerging trends in deaf education and modifying our programs accordingly.  

This presentation will offer perspective on the shift in student demographics at schools for the deaf over the last 200+ years – looking first at the profile of students served following the rubella epidemic in the 1960s and contrasting this profile to that of students served today. The changing perspective of deaf education will also be examined as enrollment among deaf students with special needs has increased exponentially over the past several years. Data highlighting these trends in student demographics will be shared.

Finally, the presentation will highlight the need for innovation among schools for the deaf to meet the individual needs of a diverse student population. Examples will be provided to offer insight into how schools can ensure a sustainable future by differentiating their programs to meet tomorrow’s demands.

Learning Objectives
  1. Gain a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of deaf education in America.
  2. Develop a vision for the future of deaf education that emphasizes innovation and adaptability.

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82661859608
Speakers
avatar for Jeffrey Bravin

Jeffrey Bravin

Executive Director, American School for the Deaf
Jeffrey S. Bravin has been the Executive Director of the American School for the Deaf since 2002. He oversees all aspects of the school, from educational programs to fundraising and public relations. Before joining ASD, he worked at the Lexington School for the Deaf and Gallaudet... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 11:30am - 12:15pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

1:15pm EDT

The Federal Landscape in Education: Threats and Opportunities
Thursday April 10, 2025 1:15pm - 2:00pm EDT
In recent months, chatter has become louder about reforming how the country approaches education. There are numerous policy positions and legislative attempts being introduced and discussed and this workshop will bring to light the conversations surrounding and shaping education policy that leads to a variety of bills being introduced in state legislatures and Congress. The participants will learn about the potential impacts on deaf/special education and steps to take to become aware of potential effects on individual schools and programs.

Learning Objectives
  1. Learn the current legislative bills on Special Education/Education
  2. Discuss policy shifts in education
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83571746908  
Speakers
avatar for Claire Bugen

Claire Bugen

Interim Executive Director, CEASD
avatar for Kim Bianco-Majeri

Kim Bianco-Majeri

Government Liaison, Gallaudet
Thursday April 10, 2025 1:15pm - 2:00pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

2:15pm EDT

ASL Immerson- An Action Palette for Language and Cognition Spectrum
Thursday April 10, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
The State of Kansas Language Assessment Program (LAP), and the state of California’s Parent Feedback forms (from LEAD-K) show that at least 70% of DHH children face language deprivation and delays between the ages of 0 and 8 years. With 16 years of experience utilizing ASL Immersion classes at KSD, we offer a radical, yet simple and cost effective approach to quickly lessen the effects of language delays in school-age DHH children. Identifying student areas of need in ASL development with various language assessments, teachers can quickly meet the student needs of ASL acquisition with daily lessons over specific communication skills. Hands-on and real-world activities allow students to seamlessly acquire ASL and learn content information about the world around them. Students exit this class once conversational proficiency is reached. Often new goals are established and serviced through ASL tutoring to tackle more of the academic communication skills required for higher-level communication. ASL Immersion classes can be implemented at the elementary and secondary levels to accommodate students of any age. The presenters will share sample lessons, pictures of group activities, and videos of students in action.

Learning Objectives
  1. Discuss my school’s existing practices and devise a plan of action to address students’ language and cognition delays in my school.
  2. Identify resources, including personnel and services, available in my school to implement ASL immersion.
Zoom link:
Topic: CEASD 2025- ASL Immersion- An Action Palette...
Time: Apr 10, 2025 11:30 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/83400031607?pwd=nNi5MYSLZ1gyl4RcjCUVslmLvTlX0g.1

Meeting ID: 834 0003 1607
Passcode: 370796

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Speakers
avatar for Kester Horn-Marsh

Kester Horn-Marsh

AEBPD bilingual mentor & Bilingual Specialist, Kansas School for the Deaf
Kester L. Horn-Marsh has a BA in English education from Avila University with an MA in Deaf Education from the University of Kansas. He was a secondary language arts teacher at Kansas School for the Deaf before becoming the Bilingual Specialist. He is also an AEBPD bilingual mentor... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Grand Station 3-4 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

2:15pm EDT

When "One More Thing" Becomes "The Thing": A Systematic Approach to Professional Learning (A)
Thursday April 10, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Student progress monitoring, needs assessment, and school initiatives are a vital, ongoing occurrence in the educational setting. FSDB offers a wide range of professional learning opportunities for all academic leaders, specialists, and teachers to develop common language and purposeful instructional planning with the common goal to support teacher effectiveness and student success.  Learn how FSDB is using an intentional and systematic approach to professional learning leveraging technology tools and face-to face engagement to improve practices based on identified barriers and in alignment to school and state initiatives. FSDB’s comprehensive professional learning opportunities include a range of delivery methods: whole campus mini-workshops, school-level meetings, small group professional learning communities, or individual teacher coaching.

Learning Objectives
  1. By the end of the session, participants will be able to use strategies to develop a system with their professional learning, needs assessment, and progress monitoring.
  2. By the end of the session, participants will be able to identify barriers and next steps to successfully implement systems.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87189106348
Speakers
avatar for Tracie Snow

Tracie Snow

President, Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB)
Tracie has dedicated nearly 30 years to the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB), where she currently proudly serves students, staff, families, and alumni as President. Throughout her career, she has provided leadership in instruction, compliance, and exceptional education... Read More →
avatar for Randi Mitchell

Randi Mitchell

Executive Director of Curriculum and Professional Development, Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (FSDB)
Randi Mitchell is Executive Director of Curriculum and Professional Development at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (FSDB) and an Adjunct Instructor at Flagler College. Her career started in Kindergarten where she used creative and innovative methods to teach before pursuing... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

3:00pm EDT

Afternoon Break (Sponsored by American School for the Deaf)
Thursday April 10, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm EDT
Thursday April 10, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm EDT
Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square 300 W Station Square Dr. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

3:15pm EDT

School Leadership: What We Know and What We Don't
Thursday April 10, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm EDT
We all know that the leadership of a Deaf school defines the success or struggles of the school. Although that is known collectively, what does research tell us? The earliest known unpublished dissertation on Deaf school leaders, “Leadership Practices Of Superintendents at Residential Schools for the Deaf,” by Balk surfaced only in 1997. The earliest article on the subject, “Preparing future teacher and doctoral level leaders in deaf education: Meeting the Challenge,” by Andrews and Covell was published in 2007. Since then there has been little research and/or peer reviewed literature that might offer ideas and data to serve as resources for all Deaf school and program leaders as well as aspiring leaders both in and out of our field. Despite this lack of research-based data and practices, there have been efforts to address the shortage of deaf leaders, particularly educational leaders. There were programs like Leadership Training Program and Gallaudet Leadership Institute. Both have been discontinued. The closest effort is our own Leadership Academy, which is a 4-day training program. However, even with these efforts, these programs (and we as a field) are still lacking the research, data, and documented best practices to provide our leaders what they need.

Learning Objectives

  1. What is already out there in the literature? 
  2. What do you want to know?
  3. How can leadership research support your programs?
Zoom link:
Topic: CEASD 2025- School Leadership: What We Know & What We Don't
Time: Apr 10, 2025 03:15 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86377085299?pwd=IoP20MN7dru6SvQi157TLbPjG2omBc.1

Meeting ID: 863 7708 5299
Passcode: 782949

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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Nathan Harrison

Dr. Nathan Harrison

Lecturer in the MSSE program, Rochester Institute of Technology
Dr. Nathan Harrison is the husband to Mackenzie and father to three children. He is a lecturer in the MSSE program at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY, and focuses on digital teaching and learning, D/HH pedagogy, bilingual instruction, and Deaf Educational Leadership... Read More →
avatar for Russell West

Russell West

Visiting Assistant Professor-Master of Science in Secondary Education (MSSE) Program, Rochester Institute of Technology's National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID)
Mr. Russell O. West is a Visiting Assistant Professor at Rochester Institute of Technology's National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) Master of Science in Secondary Education (MSSE) Program. He has served on several accreditation teams for the Conference of Educational Administrators... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm EDT
Grand Station 3-4 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

3:15pm EDT

When "One More Thing" Becomes "The Thing": A Systematic Approach to Professional Learning (B)
Thursday April 10, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm EDT
Student progress monitoring, needs assessment, and school initiatives are a vital, ongoing occurrence in the educational setting. FSDB offers a wide range of professional learning opportunities for all academic leaders, specialists, and teachers to develop common language and purposeful instructional planning with the common goal to support teacher effectiveness and student success.  Learn how FSDB is using an intentional and systematic approach to professional learning leveraging technology tools and face-to face engagement to improve practices based on identified barriers and in alignment to school and state initiatives. FSDB’s comprehensive professional learning opportunities include a range of delivery methods: whole campus mini-workshops, school-level meetings, small group professional learning communities, or individual teacher coaching.

Learning Objectives
  1. By the end of the session, participants will be able to use strategies to develop a system with their professional learning, needs assessment, and progress monitoring.
  2. By the end of the session, participants will be able to identify barriers and next steps to successfully implement systems.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86027994875
Speakers
avatar for Tracie Snow

Tracie Snow

President, Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB)
Tracie has dedicated nearly 30 years to the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB), where she currently proudly serves students, staff, families, and alumni as President. Throughout her career, she has provided leadership in instruction, compliance, and exceptional education... Read More →
avatar for Randi Mitchell

Randi Mitchell

Executive Director of Curriculum and Professional Development, Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (FSDB)
Randi Mitchell is Executive Director of Curriculum and Professional Development at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind (FSDB) and an Adjunct Instructor at Flagler College. Her career started in Kindergarten where she used creative and innovative methods to teach before pursuing... Read More →
Thursday April 10, 2025 3:15pm - 4:00pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

4:15pm EDT

Special Interest Groups: Dual Schools
Thursday April 10, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Faciliator: Brian Darcy
Thursday April 10, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Grand Station 3-4 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

4:15pm EDT

Special Interest Groups: Outreach
Thursday April 10, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Faciliator: Jennifer Herbold
Thursday April 10, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

4:15pm EDT

Special Interest Groups: Principals Roundtable
Thursday April 10, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Facilitator 1: Jennifer Labriola-Megee
Faciliator 2:
Thursday April 10, 2025 4:15pm - 5:00pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
 
Friday, April 11
 

8:30am EDT

Welcome and Opening Presentation: Day 2
Friday April 11, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am EDT
Friday April 11, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am EDT
Sheraton Pittsburgh Hotel at Station Square 300 W Station Square Dr. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

9:00am EDT

Keynote:Unleashing Greatness: How Trust and Inspiration Can Transform Our Schools and Classrooms
Friday April 11, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Unleashing Greatness: How Trust and Inspiration Can Transform Our Schools and Classrooms

Great leadership isn’t about control—it’s about trust, belief, and the ability to inspire those around us. In this powerful keynote, Dr. Candy Singh, an award-winning superintendent and influential educational leader, will explore how Trust and Inspire leadership can transform schools and classrooms into environments where educators and students thrive.

Through compelling stories, research-backed insights, and real-world strategies, Dr. Singh will challenge traditional leadership models and offer a new vision—one where trust unlocks potential, and inspiration fuels success. Attendees will walk away with practical tools to cultivate collaboration, unleash greatness in others, and create a culture of belonging and excellence.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Candy Singh

Dr. Candy Singh

Superintendent in Residence | Professor of Leadership, University of La Verne (CA)
Dr. Candy Singh is a nationally recognized education leader, celebrated for her transformational leadership and unwavering commitment to fostering cultures of excellence in schools and organizations. With over 34 years of experience in K-12 and higher education, she currently serves... Read More →
Singh pdf
Friday April 11, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

10:15am EDT

Assessing Deaf Education Legislation and Policy Outcomes
Friday April 11, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EDT
As the landscape of Deaf Education evolves, it becomes crucial to examine the policies and legislation that shape the educational experiences and outcomes for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) students. This presentation will explore the critical intersection of Deaf education, legislative frameworks, and policy advancements that aim to ensure equitable access to language acquisition and the subsequently high-quality K-12 education for DHH students. Also covered will be the key legislative components within the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Act (EHDI), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  and 
In reviewing state-level legislation like Deaf Children’s Bill of Rights (DCBR) and Language Equity and Acquisition for Deaf Kids (LEAD-K), we will consider how ongoing legislative challenges continue to impact Deaf students' access to education, mental health resources, and opportunities for career advancement.
This event will provide a platform for educators and stakeholders to share insights and develop actionable strategies that may impact the future of Deaf education, ensuring that all students, regardless of hearing status, can thrive in an inclusive and supportive educational environment.

Learning Objectives
  1. Participants will become acquainted with all legislation impacting Deaf Education.
  2. Participants will engage in developing actionable strategies.
Zoom link:
Topic: CEASD 2025- Assessing Deaf Education Legislation and Policy Outcomes
Time: Apr 11, 2025 10:15 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86536173782?pwd=Egdgwz7hVS6Msvp2VF4zkZW001WMmB.1

Meeting ID: 865 3617 3782
Passcode: 762483

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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Marla Hatrak

Dr. Marla Hatrak

Educational Policy consultant, NAD
Marla Hatrak, Ph.D., has a Master’s in Early Childhood Education with a Specialization in Public Policy and Advocacy and a PhD in Educational Policy, Leadership, & Management. More recently, she is a 2022-2024 Fellow with the Zero-to-Three organization. As the NAD’s Educational... Read More →
Hatrak pdf
Friday April 11, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EDT
Grand Station 3-4 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

10:15am EDT

Partnering with Families: Building Meaningful Relationships for Student Success
Friday April 11, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EDT
Effective school-family partnerships are critical for student achievement. This presentation explores actionable strategies to strengthen these partnerships by fostering meaningful communication, leveraging family strengths, and embracing a shared commitment to student success.
Grounded in the belief that families are integral to their child’s education, participants will examine why parents choose specific schools or classrooms and how schools can honor and align with families' aspirations. Central to this discussion is fostering trust and mutual respect, positioning families and educators as equal partners.
The session highlights communication as the cornerstone of collaboration, outlining approaches for building trust and sustaining engagement. Participants will explore strength-based strategies to recognize and utilize families’ unique assets, bridging the gap between home and school to create supportive environments.
Drawing on best practices, real-world examples, and peer networking opportunities, attendees will leave with practical tools to implement in their schools. By establishing meaningful partnerships, educators can better address the individual needs of students, particularly those with disabilities, leading to enhanced student outcomes.
This presentation emphasizes that true collaboration with families not only supports the educational journey but also empowers all stakeholders to contribute to students’ success. Join us to learn, share, and inspire change in your school community.

Learning Objectives
  1. Implement a strength-based approach in leveraging the resources and capabilities of families to support their child's learning.
  2. Apply strategies for creating meaningful partnerships with parents to support student success academically and socially.
Zoom link: ​https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86807635927​​​
Speakers
avatar for Tracie Snow

Tracie Snow

President, Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB)
Tracie has dedicated nearly 30 years to the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB), where she currently proudly serves students, staff, families, and alumni as President. Throughout her career, she has provided leadership in instruction, compliance, and exceptional education... Read More →
Snow pdf
Friday April 11, 2025 10:15am - 11:00am EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

11:15am EDT

Leading with Heart: Creating Schools that Foster Deep Academic and Social Emotional Growth through Connection
Friday April 11, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm EDT
The Center for Systems Awareness is dedicated to "growing compassionate systems change through the cultivation of systems awareness, helping people reorient and choose a different way of engaging with themselves, others, and the world."

In our hyper-connected, polarized, and often overwhelming world, both adults and children face challenges in staying grounded and forming meaningful connections. Many of us also struggle with the concept of “work-life balance” without truly examining what it means or whether it is achievable in our school and work environments.

Compassionate Systems Awareness offers a pathway for students and adults to reconnect with themselves and others, fostering growth, collaboration, and care that transcends differences in beliefs and opinions.

Dr. Herbold, a Master Practitioner, will share ideas and tools designed to bring joy to our work and cultivate appreciation for others. Drawing from her experience implementing Compassionate Systems Awareness at the New Mexico School for the Deaf, she will highlight its potential as an emerging initiative for transformative growth.

Learning Objectives
  1. Self-Reflection and Leadership: School administrators will expand upon their understanding of themselves as leaders and collaborators, gaining new perspectives on their roles with a revised concept of self-care.
  2. Practical Tools for Impact: School administrators will acquire specific tools to enhance collaboration, promote understanding, and cultivate joy within their school settings.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85459044896
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jennifer Herbold

Dr. Jennifer Herbold

Superintendent, New Mexico School for the Deaf
Dr. Jennifer Herbold earned her B.A. degrees in English and Secondary Education, and a master’s degree in Deaf Education, from Gallaudet University. She began her career teaching English to middle school students at the New Mexico School for the Deaf (NMSD) while pursuing her Ph.D... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

11:15am EDT

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports- How Is It Relevant to Your School or Program?
Friday April 11, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm EDT
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a proactive prevention-oriented framework that can be used in many educational settings to support students’ behavioral, social, emotional, and learning needs.  It is also a schoolwide approach aimed at implementing a positive learning culture that reflects safety, social competence and healthy school climates.  This workshop also covers the foundational elements of the PBIS model at the American School for the Deaf, including establishing school wide behavioral and learning expectations, implementing an acknowledgement system to reinforce positive behaviors and/or outcomes, and utilizing data for informed decision making.  The purpose of this is to improve overall learning outcomes.

Learning Objectives
  1. Integrate PBIS in the design of school's MTSS - Multi tiered support system
  2. Customize each tier of PBIS or tailor each tier of PBIS to one's school / program
Zoom link:
Topic: CEASD 2025- Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports
Time: Apr 11, 2025 11:15 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https:https://us05web.zoom.us/j/85872220648?pwd=wNrh32C0Z1FSfJ5QohAidBwRNJ5z0Z.1//us05web.zoom.us/j/85872220648?pwd=wNrh32C0Z1FSfJ5QohAidBwRNJ5z0Z.1

Meeting ID: 858 7222 0648
Passcode: 905165

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+13092053325,,85872220648#,,,,*905165# US
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Labriola-Megee

Jennifer Labriola-Megee

Principal, American School for the Deaf
People do say if you love what you do, you don’t work a day in your life.  I am known as an educator at heart and have been my entire life.  Professionally, I started teaching full time in 2003 and taught for 12 years before becoming a licensed school building leader.  I’m... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 11:15am - 12:00pm EDT
Grand Station 3-4 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

12:45pm EDT

Data Project Update
Friday April 11, 2025 12:45pm - 1:00pm EDT
Speakers
avatar for Jeffrey Bravin

Jeffrey Bravin

Executive Director, American School for the Deaf
Jeffrey S. Bravin has been the Executive Director of the American School for the Deaf since 2002. He oversees all aspects of the school, from educational programs to fundraising and public relations. Before joining ASD, he worked at the Lexington School for the Deaf and Gallaudet... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 12:45pm - 1:00pm EDT
Admiral 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

1:00pm EDT

Creating Language-Rich Environments for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students: Introducing the LAAWs Visual Framework
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
How can educators create language-rich environments that support the diverse needs of deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) students? Drawing from research, observations, and input from language planning committees and beta testing groups, the Language Abilities & Approaches Wheels (LAAWs) framework was developed to guide educators in addressing language development gaps and fostering balanced growth in signacy, literacy, and oracy.

Research highlights the limitations DHH students face in environments prioritizing English, often inaccessible to them. Inspired by frameworks such as the Balanced Literacy Diet (OSIE, 2024) and Dr. Charlotte Enn’s Language and Literacy Framework (2006), LAAWs separates language pathways by modality, as advocated by Anderson (1993) and Nover et al. (1998). This framework features six wheels targeting input and output for signacy, literacy, and oracy, enabling educators to develop intentional language plans.

First tested at Kendall Demonstration Elementary School (KDES), LAAWs demonstrated the importance of focused, modality-specific language instruction. Feedback from educators and administrators has been positive, underscoring its potential to transform classroom practices.

While ongoing research explores its broader impact, LAAWs is already empowering educators to create authentic, language-rich environments tailored to DHH students’ unique needs.

Learning Objectives
  1. Participants will identify four key frameworks addressing language deprivation in deaf and hard of hearing children and articulate the language development gaps these students commonly face.
  2. Participants will differentiate between signacy, literacy, and oracy within a language-rich classroom and demonstrate how the LAAWs framework supports the intentional design of effective language environments for deaf and hard of hearing students.
Zoom link:
Topic: CEASD 2025- Creating Language Rich Environments...
Time: Apr 11, 2025 01:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/83538271617?pwd=ZiXbkHysgkb3Q7de8INaPnJW4E3dK1.1

Meeting ID: 835 3827 1617
Passcode: 184326

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+13126266799,,83538271617#,,,,*184326# US (Chicago)
Speakers
TB

Tammy Burns

K-12 project manager, Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center on the campus of Gallaudet University
Tammy Murphy Burns, MSc, is a K-12 project manager at the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center on the campus of Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. Prior to this position, she was coordinator of teaching and learning in bilingual education at the Clerc Center. Murphy... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Grand Station 3-4 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

1:00pm EDT

Understanding Deafblindness: Strategies for Supporting Students and Clients (Session A)
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
This workshop is designed for administrators who seek to enhance their knowledge and understanding of deafblindness and its impact on communication, learning, and daily functioning. Participants will gain an overview of deafblindness, including the causes, challenges, and unique needs of individuals who are both deaf-blind.

The session will cover key topics such as:
Session A (45 Min)
*Characteristics of Deafblindness: Understanding how the combination of hearing and vision loss affects communication, mobility, and access to information.
*Communication Techniques: Exploring alternative communication methods, such as tactile sign language, Braille, and communication boards.
*Environmental Modifications: Strategies for creating accessible spaces that support the inclusion of individuals who are deafblind.

Learning Objective
  1. Participants will leave the workshop equipped with practical tools and a deeper understanding of how to implement inclusive practices, create supportive environments, and ensure that individuals who are deaf-blind can fully engage in educational, social, and community activities.
  2. This session will be interactive, offering opportunities for discussion, case studies, and hands-on demonstrations of assistive technologies. Administrators will walk away with actionable strategies to better support their staff and clients who are deaf-blind, promoting a culture of inclusion and accessibility.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81051196281
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jennifer Craig

Dr. Jennifer Craig

Director of Student Life, Western PA School f/t Deaf
Dr. Jennifer Craig is the Director of Student Life at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), where she oversees a range of programs, including the residential program, healthcare center, after-school initiatives, early intervention, and athletics. Jennifer has been deeply... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Donald Mazreku

Dr. Donald Mazreku

Director of Student Services, Western PA School f/t Deaf
Mr. Donald Mazreku is the Director of Student Services at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), overseeing Individual Education Program compliance, student services, and various school federal and state reporting. Mr. Mazreku has served as an administrator at the school... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

2:00pm EDT

The Deaf Reading Rope
Friday April 11, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
The Science of Reading (SOR) has made quite the legislative and curricular impact over the past few years. As with many things, as one size approach to education does not work with D/HH students. Components of SOR, such as phonics instruction, has brought concern to educators working in ASL with students who need that language access. By performing a metanalysis of ASL/English reading research for the past 40 years, focusing on research on skilled Deaf readers, and using the SOR as a framework, Dr. Harrison has created a guide to skilled ASL/English Deaf reading called the Deaf Reading Rope. This tool allows for teachers and schools to consider their literacy curriculum and where it could be strengthened. It also provides a response to policy makers about how bilingual schools are approaching SOR in their curriculum.

Learning Objectives
  1. Consider the components of skilled deaf reading and how they manifest within your school.
  2. Consider how you will discuss the Science of Reading policy as they are applied to bilingual Deaf schools.
Zoom link:
Topic: CEASD 2025- The Deaf Reading Rope
Time: Apr 11, 2025 02:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/88397143554?pwd=6IzZM3B0PwkbcFDgAT1x83zaYoKjxr.1

Meeting ID: 883 9714 3554
Passcode: 807128

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One tap mobile
+13017158592,,88397143554#,,,,*807128# US (Washington DC)
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Nathan Harrison

Dr. Nathan Harrison

Lecturer in the MSSE program, Rochester Institute of Technology
Dr. Nathan Harrison is the husband to Mackenzie and father to three children. He is a lecturer in the MSSE program at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, NY, and focuses on digital teaching and learning, D/HH pedagogy, bilingual instruction, and Deaf Educational Leadership... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Station 3-4 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

2:00pm EDT

Understanding Deafblindness: Strategies for Supporting Students and Clients (Session B)
Friday April 11, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
This workshop is designed for administrators who seek to enhance their knowledge and understanding of deafblindness and its impact on communication, learning, and daily functioning. Participants will gain an overview of deafblindness, including the causes, challenges, and unique needs of individuals who are both deaf-blind.
Collaborative Approaches: Working with specialized staff, families, and community resources to provide a holistic support system.
Legal and Educational Frameworks: An overview of laws, policies, and best practices that ensure equal access to services and education for people who are deafblind.

Learning Objectives
  1. Participants will leave the workshop equipped with practical tools and a deeper understanding of how to implement inclusive practices, create supportive environments, and ensure that individuals who are deaf-blind can fully engage in educational, social, and community activities.
  2. This session will be interactive, offering opportunities for discussion, case studies, and hands-on demonstrations of assistive technologies. Administrators will walk away with actionable strategies to better support their staff and clients who are deaf-blind, promoting a culture of inclusion and accessibility.
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81268316212
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Jennifer Craig

Dr. Jennifer Craig

Director of Student Life, Western PA School f/t Deaf
Dr. Jennifer Craig is the Director of Student Life at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), where she oversees a range of programs, including the residential program, healthcare center, after-school initiatives, early intervention, and athletics. Jennifer has been deeply... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Donald Mazreku

Dr. Donald Mazreku

Director of Student Services, Western PA School f/t Deaf
Mr. Donald Mazreku is the Director of Student Services at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD), overseeing Individual Education Program compliance, student services, and various school federal and state reporting. Mr. Mazreku has served as an administrator at the school... Read More →
Friday April 11, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA

6:00pm EDT

Banquet and Closing Ceremony
Friday April 11, 2025 6:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Friday April 11, 2025 6:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Grand Station 1-2 300 West Station Square Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
 
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