Summit Schedule

Schedule & Logistics

Verrado High School (map)

20050 W Indian School Rd 

Buckeye, AZ 85396


Students dismiss 3-3:15, we do NOT recommend leaving during this time

Sessions

Anchoring the summit in the AZ Guidance and Playbook, we are building 3 Learning Tracks into the day

(A) Create a Strong Foundation

What is your WHY? How do we do this safely and appropriately? Who do I need on board and how do we organize?


(B) Build Momentum


What tools and frameworks make this happen? How do we train teachers? How do we measure success?


(C) Transforming Learning


What is the classroom of the future? How do we learn and live in a world of advanced AI? What do our students need for that world?

Round 1 - Learning Sessions (10:00am)

(Track A) AZ AI Guidance Document

Roxi Thompson, Lead Instructional Technology Coach, PUSD

Michelle Coots M.Ed., Manager of Instructional Technology, DVUHSD

Kristin Turner, Superintendent, PESD

Rachna Mathur, Sr. STEM Strategist, ASU Preparatory Academy

Alecia Henderson, CS and EdTech Specialist, AZ Dept of Ed

Luke Allpress, Director, AFUHSD

The AI Guidance for Arizona Schools (www.azk12.ai/) was written to provide a North Star and Guardrails for those working to implement AI into schools safely and effectively. Come hear from 6 of the Writers of the guidance document about key features and takeaways for district leaders. Session will involve breakouts to focus on Powerful Teaching & Learning, Ethics & Responsibility, and Implementation Rollout and Administrative Support. We will emphasize personal action steps, turning the foundational guidance into an implementation plan.

(Track B) Inspiring Change and Building Momentum

Dr. Michelle Watt, Chief Systems Officer, Scottsdale USD

Andrea Claver, Digital Innovation Coach, Scottsdale Unified School District 

Join us for an engaging and interactive session where you’ll discover how Scottsdale Unified School District is pioneering the use of generative AI in education. Learn about their journey in building momentum through invitational learning opportunities, pilot programs, stakeholder feedback, and spotlighting success stories. Whether you’re in the early stages of exploring generative AI tools or looking to enhance the adoption of your chosen suite, this session will equip you with actionable strategies to implement immediately. Bring your team and leave inspired with practical insights to drive AI innovation in your own district!

(Track C) AI Literacy: Frameworks in Action

Selena Padilla, Teacher, AFUHSD

Join this session to discover how implementing an Acceptable Use (AI Stoplight) and AI Literacy (CARE) framework can enhance AI literacy among staff and students. Hear directly from teachers as they share practical strategies for creating a more AI Literate classroom and school environment.

Round 2 - Learning Sessions (11:20am)

(A) Humans in the AI Landscape - Navigating the Changes for Teachers, Leaders, and Humans of All Types

Laura Boone, President, AzTEA

In this edge of your seat, interactive session we will explore the profound impact of artificial intelligence on education and leadership. As AI continues to transform our world, teachers, leaders, and individuals from all walks of life face unprecedented challenges and opportunities. We'll discuss practical strategies for navigating these changes, emphasizing the human element at the core of effective AI adoption. Participants will gain insights into leveraging the best of AI while holding onto the empathy, creativity, and critical thinking that makes humans so perfectly imperfect. Through engaging activities and real-world examples, this session will equip you with the knowledge and skills to thrive in an AI-driven landscape, ensuring that technological advancements enhance the learning experience for student and teacher alike. (Yes, written in partnership with chatgpt.)

(B) Enhancing Staff Efficiency with AI Tools: A Professional Learning Approach

Roxi Thompson, Lead Instructional Technology Coach,

Peoria Unified School District

Join us for an engaging and practical session designed to empower instructional leaders with the knowledge and skills to facilitate professional learning on leveraging AI tools for efficiency. This session will focus on preparing participants to design and deliver effective professional learning experiences that meet the diverse needs of educators, foster a culture of AI literacy, and help staff maximize their productivity.

(C) Preparing for the Future: AI & Workforce Development

Drew Olsson, Tech Integration Coordinator

 Nate Showman, Executive Director of CTE

As AI continues to advance, its impact on the workforce becomes increasingly significant. This session will delve into the implications of AI for future job markets, examining which roles are most susceptible to automation and which skills will remain essential. We will also explore how students can use AI to enhance their learning and prepare for these changes, as well as how educators and staff can leverage AI tools to improve instructional practices and support career readiness.

Round 3 - Action Workshops (2:00pm)

(A) Setting the Foundation Workshop

Lauren Owens, Ex. Dir of Technology

Are you passionate about bringing AI into your school, but struggling with leadership that’s hesitant or resistant? This session is for you. We’ll explore practical strategies for championing AI integration from the ground up, even when you’re not in a leadership position. Learn how to build a grassroots movement, leverage small wins, and create a compelling narrative that can shift perspectives. You’ll leave with actionable tips on how to influence decision-makers, engage your peers, and make meaningful progress in AI adoption, regardless of your role. Empower yourself to be a catalyst for change, even in the face of resistance.

(B) Building Momentum Workshop

Drew Olsson, Tech Integration Coordinator

Feeling overwhelmed about the prospect of doing this all alone? Come to this dynamic workshop and discover how to cultivate your own AI Ambassadors—a dedicated group of educators and staff who are passionate about integrating AI into their school communities. Learn how to assemble a team that collaborates, learns, and grows together, sharing knowledge and best practices to foster a culture of innovation. This session will guide you through the process of developing a personalized AI Ambassador program, equipping participants to build capacity in others to deliver impactful professional development and champion AI initiatives at their respective sites.

(C) Transforming Learning Workshop

Luke Allpress, Director of Innovative Solutions

What will the classroom of the future look like? How will we learn and thrive in a world driven by advanced AI? What do our students need to be prepared for this rapidly changing landscape? Join us for an interactive and engaging workshop where we will explore these questions together. This session is designed to be highly discussion-based, encouraging active participation as we collaboratively envision and shape the future of education in an AI-powered world.