PISD Summer Inspire 2026

PISD Summer Inspire 2026

Get ready to refresh, refine, and remix your learning at Summer Inspire on May 27-28 from 8:30–4:00! This year, we’re building on what works, exploring new strategies, and amplifying the impact we have on students. Please bring a charged device to all sessions.

Please note: Our main location will be Shepton High School, but some sessions may be at the Plano ISD Sockwell Center.

Shepton High School: 5505 W Plano Pkwy, Plano, TX 75093
Sockwell Center: 6301 Chapel Hill Blvd, Plano, TX 75093

Some tips for navigating Sched:

Filter sessions by type using the menu bar on the right side of Sched (All Levels, Elementary, Secondary, Session Times).
Reserve your spot by clicking the circle icon next to the session name. Be sure to log in with your PISD credentials to secure your spot—sessions fill up fast!
Need help navigating? Check out support here.
There are 80-minute (earn 1.5 hours of credit), three-hour, and full day (earning 6 hours of credit) session options for each day. Participants are invited to attend as many as they wish each day.

All sessions qualify for 26-27 Trade Hours.

Have additional questions? Contact Kyle Fritsche at [email protected].

8:30am CDT

A First Look: Unlock Creativity with Canva for Education

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT

Shepton HS E209

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Join our workshop to build confidence using Canva in your classroom. Learn how to navigate the Home screen, find and use templates, create folders, and share activities. You'll get hands-on practice and see just how intuitive Canva is, so you can feel confident getting started. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Canva Education

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Shepton HS E209

All Levels, Technology

8:30am CDT

BenQ Boards 101: Starting Your Journey

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT

Shepton HS Rm E206

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Come say hi to the new guy! PISD classrooms are seeing an exciting shift to BenQ Boards as the current projectors are removed. This class is a slow-paced introduction to the BenQ Board and is a perfect fit for anyone new to BenQ or would like a refresher. Participants will learn to navigate the platform effectively, ensuring they can utilize this essential hardware to support grade-level digital learning objectives. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

B

BenQ

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Shepton HS Rm E206

All Levels, Technology

8:30am CDT

Infinite Creativity for the Classroom

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT

Shepton HS D205

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how to transform your planning and ignite student creativity using iPad. From digital command centers for teachers to creative design boards for students, explore the limitless possibilities of Apple’s Freeform app. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

A

Apple

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Shepton HS D205

All Levels, Technology

8:30am CDT

Pear Up for Success! Designing Engaging, Interactive, and Differentiated Learning Experiences

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT

Shepton HS Rm E204

Limited Capacity seats available

Transform your teaching with Pear Deck and Pear Start! Discover how Pear Deck helps you create engaging, interactive presentations that transform passive learners into active participants. We’ll explore interactive strategies such as quick checks, exit tickets, and Flashcard Factory. Then, streamline your workflow with Pear Start to make everything from lesson planning to interactive quizzes a snap. Get ready to leverage your ultimate partners for classroom success! Resource site: www.pisd.edu/peardeck Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Lilly Jensby

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

I am thrilled to be a part of the Digital Learning Team! As part of the DLT, I support the curricular areas of Advanced Academics/PACE, Computer Science & Robotics, Fine Arts, ROTC, and Science K-12. My favorite aspect of my job is supporting and building connections with the... Read More →

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Shepton HS Rm E204

All Levels, Technology

8:30am CDT

Prompt Like a Pro: AI Moves That Actually Work in Class

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT

Shepton HS Library

Limited Capacity seats available

[All attendees will receive a copy of the author's book, Fifty AI Prompts for Teachers.]
Planning lessons without AI in 2026 is a bit like grading papers without a pen—it’s possible, but why make it harder on yourself? In this session, you’ll learn how to use Gemini as a reliable “thinking partner” to help you brainstorm ideas, strengthen your content knowledge, and build engaging instructional materials. Through hands-on examples and simple prompting strategies, you’ll see how AI can save time while actually improving your teaching. We’ll also dig into why these tools matter right now—and how to use them in ways that truly support learning.Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Paul Cancellieri

Wednesday May 27, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Shepton HS Library

All Levels, All Content Areas, Technology

10:00am CDT

BenQ Boards 101: Starting Your Journey

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Shepton HS Rm E206

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Come say hi to the new guy! PISD classrooms are seeing an exciting shift to BenQ Boards as the current projectors are removed. This class is a slow-paced introduction to the BenQ Board and is a perfect fit for anyone new to BenQ or would like a refresher. Participants will learn to navigate the platform effectively, ensuring they can utilize this essential hardware to support grade-level digital learning objectives. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

B

BenQ

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Shepton HS Rm E206

All Levels, Technology

10:00am CDT

Capturing the Student Learning Journey in Canva

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Shepton HS E209

Limited Capacity seats available

Join this immersive workshop to explore a student’s learning journey with Canva. From goal setting to showcasing their work, discover how students can use Canva to demonstrate what they’ve learned through visually engaging designs. You’ll take a deep dive into transforming traditional assignments into creative, student-led projects. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Canva Education

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Shepton HS E209

All Levels, Technology

10:00am CDT

Infinite Creativity for the Classroom

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Shepton HS D205

Limited Capacity filling up

Discover how to transform your planning and ignite student creativity using iPad. From digital command centers for teachers to creative design boards for students, explore the limitless possibilities of Apple’s Freeform app. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

A

Apple

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Shepton HS D205

All Levels, Technology

10:00am CDT

Prompt Like a Pro: AI Moves That Actually Work in Class

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Shepton HS Library

Limited Capacity seats available

[All attendees will receive a copy of the author's book, Fifty AI Prompts for Teachers.]
Planning lessons without AI in 2026 is a bit like grading papers without a pen—it’s possible, but why make it harder on yourself? In this session, you’ll learn how to use Gemini as a reliable “thinking partner” to help you brainstorm ideas, strengthen your content knowledge, and build engaging instructional materials. Through hands-on examples and simple prompting strategies, you’ll see how AI can save time while actually improving your teaching. We’ll also dig into why these tools matter right now—and how to use them in ways that truly support learning. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Paul Cancellieri

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Shepton HS Library

All Levels, All Content Areas, Technology

10:00am CDT

Students as Content Creators - Adobe Express & Canva

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Shepton HS Rm E204

Limited Capacity seats available

Empower students to showcase their understanding through original, creative work using Adobe Express and Canva. This session explores how students can design multimedia products - including videos, animations and graphic designs - by leveraging copyright-free assets and built-in AI tools, to amplify creativity, voice, and authentic learning. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Lilly Jensby

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

I am thrilled to be a part of the Digital Learning Team! As part of the DLT, I support the curricular areas of Advanced Academics/PACE, Computer Science & Robotics, Fine Arts, ROTC, and Science K-12. My favorite aspect of my job is supporting and building connections with the... Read More →

Wednesday May 27, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Shepton HS Rm E204

All Levels, Technology

1:00pm CDT

Designing with AI: Pear Start & Gemini Gems

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Shepton HS Rm E204

Limited Capacity filling up

This interactive session invites participants to explore ways to design authentic, student-centered learning experiences using Plano ISD-approved AI tools. We will learn how Pear Start and Gemini can assist educators to create opportunities for students to develop their creativity and strengthen their collaboration and communication skills. This session will also practice how to craft AI prompts to generate ideas for supporting personalization and differentiation to meet diverse learner needs. Additionally, this session will emphasize teaching responsible AI use by embedding digital citizenship skills that empower students to contribute positively and ethically with digital tools. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Clara Alaniz

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

Hi! I am your nerdy BFF who is addicted to learning and passionate about educational technology. I have been a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD since 2002 and I also serve as an Undergraduate Lecturer at the University of Texas at Dallas. I previously served as a classroom... Read More →

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Shepton HS Rm E204

All Levels, Technology

1:00pm CDT

Enhance your Teaching with AI in the Classroom Using Canva

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Shepton HS E209

Limited Capacity seats available

Join us for a hands-on workshop exploring Canva’s AI tools for the classroom. Learn how to integrate tools like Magic Write, Magic Design, Magic Studio, Magic Activities, and Canva Code into your teaching practice. You’ll explore real classroom use cases and walk away with ideas you can start using right away. Please bring a charged device to this session.

*Participants in this session should be familiar with using tools within Canva prior to attending the session.

Speakers

Canva Education

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Shepton HS E209

All Levels, Technology

1:00pm CDT

Infinite Creativity for the Classroom

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Shepton HS D205

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how to transform your planning and ignite student creativity using iPad. From digital command centers for teachers to creative design boards for students, explore the limitless possibilities of Apple’s Freeform app.

Speakers

A

Apple

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Shepton HS D205

All Levels, Technology

1:00pm CDT

Prompt Like a Pro: AI Moves That Actually Work in Class

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Shepton HS Library

Limited Capacity seats available

[All attendees will receive a copy of the author's book, Fifty AI Prompts for Teachers.]
Planning lessons without AI in 2026 is a bit like grading papers without a pen—it’s possible, but why make it harder on yourself? In this session, you’ll learn how to use Gemini as a reliable “thinking partner” to help you brainstorm ideas, strengthen your content knowledge, and build engaging instructional materials. Through hands-on examples and simple prompting strategies, you’ll see how AI can save time while actually improving your teaching. We’ll also dig into why these tools matter right now—and how to use them in ways that truly support learning. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Paul Cancellieri

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Shepton HS Library

All Levels, All Content Areas, Technology

1:00pm CDT

The Mobile Maestro: Untethered Teaching Workflows

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Shepton HS Rm E206

Limited Capacity seats available

Ready to move beyond the teacher’s desk? Untethered teaching embraces flexibility through the use of digital tools, mobile technologies, and innovative pedagogies, allowing teachers to interact with students in a more dynamic, real-time, and adaptable manner. This session focuses on using the iPad, Apple TV, and BenQ boards to make student thinking visible in real-time. By unbinding yourself from the podium, you will learn to provide immediate differentiation and personalized instruction at the student’s side. Exactly where it’s needed most. We will explore how to integrate the Pear Suite, Explain Everything, and GoGuardian to maintain high engagement and instructional oversight while navigating a fluid, modern classroom. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Fern Johnson

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

I'm currently a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD and a former math teacher and technology auditor. My formal education includes an M.Ed. in Learning and Technology and BS in Accounting. Teacher certs: EC - 8 Generalist; EC-12 Special Education; 4-8 Math; and EC-12 ESL I can... Read More →

Wednesday May 27, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Shepton HS Rm E206

All Levels, Technology

2:30pm CDT

Empowering Educators and Staff with Canva Education

Wednesday May 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT

Shepton HS E209

Limited Capacity seats available

Explore the magic of Canva for Education in this collaborative workshop that helps prepare you to lead professional learning on Canva (think Train-the-Trainer model). Dive into the basics of design and Canva’s workflow, so you can confidently support others in your district. You’ll learn how Canva helps students, staff, and educators create, communicate, and collaborate in ways that make learning more impactful and engaging. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Canva Education

Wednesday May 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Shepton HS E209

All Levels, Technology

2:30pm CDT

Infinite Creativity for the Classroom

Wednesday May 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT

Shepton HS D205

Limited Capacity filling up

Discover how to transform your planning and ignite student creativity using iPad. From digital command centers for teachers to creative design boards for students, explore the limitless possibilities of Apple’s Freeform app.Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

A

Apple

Wednesday May 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Shepton HS D205

All Levels, Technology

2:30pm CDT

Prompt Like a Pro: AI Moves That Actually Work in Class

Wednesday May 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT

Shepton HS Library

Limited Capacity seats available

[All attendees will receive a copy of the author's book, Fifty AI Prompts for Teachers.]
Planning lessons without AI in 2026 is a bit like grading papers without a pen—it’s possible, but why make it harder on yourself? In this session, you’ll learn how to use Gemini as a reliable “thinking partner” to help you brainstorm ideas, strengthen your content knowledge, and build engaging instructional materials. Through hands-on examples and simple prompting strategies, you’ll see how AI can save time while actually improving your teaching. We’ll also dig into why these tools matter right now—and how to use them in ways that truly support learning. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Paul Cancellieri

Wednesday May 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Shepton HS Library

All Levels, All Content Areas, Technology

2:30pm CDT

The AI Innovation Lab: From Concept to Creation

Wednesday May 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT

Shepton HS Rm E206

Limited Capacity seats available

Introduce AI to students not as a "magic button," but as a learning partner. Every student project that involves AI follows a three-phase blueprint to ensure academic integrity and safety:
The Human Spark (Ideation): Before touching AI, students must produce a "Brainstorm Artifact" (a mind map, a hand-drawn sketch, or a written outline).
The AI Augmentation (Creation): Students use specific, approved tools to iterate on their idea.
Adobe Express: For generative fill and precise visual layering.
Canva Magic Studio: For layout automation and multimedia transformation.
Google Labs: For research synthesis and rapid prototyping.
The Human Polish (Refinement): Students must manually edit, critique, and document the changes they made to the AI output to make it "theirs."
Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Fern Johnson

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

I'm currently a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD and a former math teacher and technology auditor. My formal education includes an M.Ed. in Learning and Technology and BS in Accounting. Teacher certs: EC - 8 Generalist; EC-12 Special Education; 4-8 Math; and EC-12 ESL I can... Read More →

Wednesday May 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Shepton HS Rm E206

All Levels, Technology

8:30am CDT

A First Look: Unlock Creativity with Canva for Education

Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT

Shepton HS E209

Limited Capacity seats available

Join our workshop to build confidence using Canva in your classroom. Learn how to navigate the Home screen, find and use templates, create folders, and share activities. You'll get hands-on practice and see just how intuitive Canva is, so you can feel confident getting started. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Canva Education

Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Shepton HS E209

All Levels, Technology

8:30am CDT

BenQ Boards 101: Starting Your Journey

Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT

Shepton HS Rm E206

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Come say hi to the new guy! PISD classrooms are seeing an exciting shift to BenQ Boards as the current projectors are removed. This class is a slow-paced introduction to the BenQ Board and is a perfect fit for anyone new to BenQ or would like a refresher. Participants will learn to navigate the platform effectively, ensuring they can utilize this essential hardware to support grade-level digital learning objectives. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

B

BenQ

Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Shepton HS Rm E206

All Levels, Technology

8:30am CDT

Infinite Creativity for the Classroom

Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT

Shepton HS D205

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how to transform your planning and ignite student creativity using iPad. From digital command centers for teachers to creative design boards for students, explore the limitless possibilities of Apple’s Freeform app. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

A

Apple

Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Shepton HS D205

All Levels, Technology

8:30am CDT

Pear Up for Success! Designing Engaging, Interactive, and Differentiated Learning Experiences

Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT

Shepton HS Rm E204

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Transform your teaching with Pear Deck and Pear Start! Discover how Pear Deck helps you create engaging, interactive presentations that transform passive learners into active participants. We’ll explore interactive strategies such as quick checks, exit tickets, and Flashcard Factory. Then, streamline your workflow with Pear Start to make everything from lesson planning to interactive quizzes a snap. Get ready to leverage your ultimate partners for classroom success! Resource site: www.pisd.edu/peardeck Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Lilly Jensby

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

I am thrilled to be a part of the Digital Learning Team! As part of the DLT, I support the curricular areas of Advanced Academics/PACE, Computer Science & Robotics, Fine Arts, ROTC, and Science K-12. My favorite aspect of my job is supporting and building connections with the... Read More →

Thursday May 28, 2026 8:30am - 9:50am CDT
Shepton HS Rm E204

All Levels, Technology

10:00am CDT

BenQ Boards 101: Starting Your Journey

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Shepton HS Rm E206

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Come say hi to the new guy! PISD classrooms are seeing an exciting shift to BenQ Boards as the current projectors are removed. This class is a slow-paced introduction to the BenQ Board and is a perfect fit for anyone new to BenQ or would like a refresher. Participants will learn to navigate the platform effectively, ensuring they can utilize this essential hardware to support grade-level digital learning objectives. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

B

BenQ

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Shepton HS Rm E206

All Levels, Technology

10:00am CDT

Capturing the Student Learning Journey in Canva

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Shepton HS E209

Limited Capacity seats available

Join this immersive workshop to explore a student’s learning journey with Canva. From goal setting to showcasing their work, discover how students can use Canva to demonstrate what they’ve learned through visually engaging designs. You’ll take a deep dive into transforming traditional assignments into creative, student-led projects. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Canva Education

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Shepton HS E209

All Levels, Technology

10:00am CDT

Infinite Creativity for the Classroom

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Shepton HS D205

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how to transform your planning and ignite student creativity using iPad. From digital command centers for teachers to creative design boards for students, explore the limitless possibilities of Apple’s Freeform app. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

A

Apple

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Shepton HS D205

All Levels, Technology

10:00am CDT

Students as Content Creators - Adobe Express & Canva

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT

Shepton HS Rm E204

Limited Capacity seats available

Empower students to showcase their understanding through original, creative work using Adobe Express and Canva. This session explores how students can design multimedia products - including videos, animations and graphic designs - by leveraging copyright-free assets and built-in AI tools, to amplify creativity, voice, and authentic learning. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Lilly Jensby

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

I am thrilled to be a part of the Digital Learning Team! As part of the DLT, I support the curricular areas of Advanced Academics/PACE, Computer Science & Robotics, Fine Arts, ROTC, and Science K-12. My favorite aspect of my job is supporting and building connections with the... Read More →

Thursday May 28, 2026 10:00am - 11:20am CDT
Shepton HS Rm E204

All Levels, Technology

1:00pm CDT

Designing with AI: Pear Start & Gemini Gems

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Shepton HS Rm E204

Limited Capacity filling up

This interactive session invites participants to explore ways to design authentic, student-centered learning experiences using Plano ISD-approved AI tools. We will learn how Pear Start and Gemini can assist educators to create opportunities for students to develop their creativity and strengthen their collaboration and communication skills. This session will also practice how to craft AI prompts to generate ideas for supporting personalization and differentiation to meet diverse learner needs. Additionally, this session will emphasize teaching responsible AI use by embedding digital citizenship skills that empower students to contribute positively and ethically with digital tools. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Clara Alaniz

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

Hi! I am your nerdy BFF who is addicted to learning and passionate about educational technology. I have been a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD since 2002 and I also serve as an Undergraduate Lecturer at the University of Texas at Dallas. I previously served as a classroom... Read More →

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Shepton HS Rm E204

All Levels, Technology

1:00pm CDT

Enhance your Teaching with AI in the Classroom Using Canva

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Shepton HS E209

Limited Capacity seats available

Join us for a hands-on workshop exploring Canva’s AI tools for the classroom. Learn how to integrate tools like Magic Write, Magic Design, Magic Studio, Magic Activities, and Canva Code into your teaching practice. You’ll explore real classroom use cases and walk away with ideas you can start using right away. Please bring a charged device to this session.

*Participants in this session should be familiar with using tools within Canva prior to attending the session.

Speakers

Canva Education

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Shepton HS E209

All Levels, Technology

1:00pm CDT

Infinite Creativity for the Classroom

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Shepton HS D205

Limited Capacity seats available

Discover how to transform your planning and ignite student creativity using iPad. From digital command centers for teachers to creative design boards for students, explore the limitless possibilities of Apple’s Freeform app. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

A

Apple

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Shepton HS D205

All Levels, Technology

1:00pm CDT

The Mobile Maestro: Untethered Teaching Workflows

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT

Shepton HS Rm E206

Limited Capacity seats available

Ready to move beyond the teacher’s desk? Untethered teaching embraces flexibility through the use of digital tools, mobile technologies, and innovative pedagogies, allowing teachers to interact with students in a more dynamic, real-time, and adaptable manner. This session focuses on using the iPad, Apple TV, and BenQ boards to make student thinking visible in real-time. By unbinding yourself from the podium, you will learn to provide immediate differentiation and personalized instruction at the student’s side. Exactly where it’s needed most. We will explore how to integrate the Pear Suite, Explain Everything, and GoGuardian to maintain high engagement and instructional oversight while navigating a fluid, modern classroom. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Fern Johnson

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

I'm currently a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD and a former math teacher and technology auditor. My formal education includes an M.Ed. in Learning and Technology and BS in Accounting. Teacher certs: EC - 8 Generalist; EC-12 Special Education; 4-8 Math; and EC-12 ESL I can... Read More →

Thursday May 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:20pm CDT
Shepton HS Rm E206

All Levels, Technology

2:30pm CDT

Empowering Educators and Staff with Canva Education

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT

Shepton HS E209

Limited Capacity filling up

Explore the magic of Canva for Education in this collaborative workshop that helps prepare you to lead professional learning on Canva (think Train-the-Trainer model). Dive into the basics of design and Canva’s workflow, so you can confidently support others in your district. You’ll learn how Canva helps students, staff, and educators create, communicate, and collaborate in ways that make learning more impactful and engaging. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Canva Education

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Shepton HS E209

All Levels, Technology

2:30pm CDT

Infinite Creativity for the Classroom

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT

Shepton HS D205

Limited Capacity full
Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.

Discover how to transform your planning and ignite student creativity using iPad. From digital command centers for teachers to creative design boards for students, explore the limitless possibilities of Apple’s Freeform app. Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

A

Apple

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Shepton HS D205

All Levels, Technology

2:30pm CDT

The AI Innovation Lab: From Concept to Creation

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT

Shepton HS Rm E206

Limited Capacity seats available

Introduce AI to students not as a "magic button," but as a learning partner. Every student project that involves AI follows a three-phase blueprint to ensure academic integrity and safety:
The Human Spark (Ideation): Before touching AI, students must produce a "Brainstorm Artifact" (a mind map, a hand-drawn sketch, or a written outline).
The AI Augmentation (Creation): Students use specific, approved tools to iterate on their idea.
Adobe Express: For generative fill and precise visual layering.
Canva Magic Studio: For layout automation and multimedia transformation.
Google Labs: For research synthesis and rapid prototyping.
The Human Polish (Refinement): Students must manually edit, critique, and document the changes they made to the AI output to make it "theirs."
Please bring a charged device to this session.

Speakers

Fern Johnson

Digital Learning Specialist, Digital Learning

I'm currently a Digital Learning Specialist in Plano ISD and a former math teacher and technology auditor. My formal education includes an M.Ed. in Learning and Technology and BS in Accounting. Teacher certs: EC - 8 Generalist; EC-12 Special Education; 4-8 Math; and EC-12 ESL I can... Read More →

Thursday May 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:50pm CDT
Shepton HS Rm E206

All Levels, Technology