Engaging Educators 2025

In this interactive session, PK-1st grade teachers will explore Tricia Zucker and Sonia Cabell’s Strive for Five Conversations, a powerful framework for fostering meaningful, extended conversations with young children. Participants will gain insights into the five-step model, designed to encourage back-and-forth exchanges that support children’s language and cognitive development. Through guided practice and real-world examples, teachers will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of each element and learn practical ways to integrate these techniques into daily classroom interactions. By the end of the session, participants will feel equipped and inspired to implement the Strive for Five approach, enhancing the quality of their conversations with students and promoting a language-rich classroom environment.

How do you start a Level III program in your district? In this session I will discuss the steps that Nebraska City took to start our Level III program and share what we are currently doing to support our students.

This session will delve into the power of small group literacy instruction as a strategic approach to address the diverse needs of learners. Participants will explore evidence-based practices to create targeted, differentiated instruction based on data that maximizes student growth. Practical intensification strategies and resources will also be shared.