Track A
Session 1:
Loan Basics: A Guide to Borrowing For Needs Beyond the Bell
In today’s world, it is increasingly rare for Americans to afford the upfront the cost of a new car or home. How do we navigate those big life decisions? In this session, EdCats will be exposed to the terminology of loans (including Mortgages, student, auto, and personal loans) and how borrowing works to create an understanding of the financial system and how to use it to our benefit beyond the bell.
Regulate to Relate: Self-Regulation as Classroom Management
Help educators understand how their nervous systems and values impact every interaction. This workshop builds self-awareness and emotional regulation as the foundation of classroom leadership.
Building Stronger Relationships
Join this session to learn strategies for building stronger and more positive relationships with colleagues, students, administrators, and parents.
When Teachers Speak, Students Thrive
Every student deserves someone in their corner. This session explores how educators can become strong advocates for their students -- building trust, breaking down barriers, and speaking up so every learner has the chance to thrive.
Teaching for the Long Haul: Thriving, Not Just Surviving
This presentation will explore practical strategies and mindset shifts that help educators sustain their passion and energy throughout a long teaching career. Participants will learn how to balance professional demands with personal well-being so they can thrive—not just survive—in the classroom for years to come.
Session 2:
Loan Basics: A Guide to Borrowing For Needs Beyond the Bell
In today’s world, it is increasingly rare for Americans to afford the upfront the cost of a new car or home. How do we navigate those big life decisions? In this session, EdCats will be exposed to the terminology of loans (including Mortgages, student, auto, and personal loans) and how borrowing works to create an understanding of the financial system and how to use it to our benefit beyond the bell.
Regulate to Relate: Self-Regulation as Classroom Management
Help educators understand how their nervous systems and values impact every interaction. This workshop builds self-awareness and emotional regulation as the foundation of classroom leadership.
Prioritize Your Peace, Promote Their Joy
You don’t have to be a music teacher to bring the power of music and movement into your classroom! In this uplifting and practical session, you’ll learn how simple singing games and activities like the ones used in music class can be repurposed as quick, effective brain breaks for students in grades K–12. These joyful moments help students reset, reduce stress, and build classroom community, and they can easily be woven into any subject area.
But student wellness starts with your wellness. As a bonus, you’ll also walk away with tried-and-true tips for managing work/life balance, protecting your personal time, and developing healthy relationships with colleagues. From setting boundaries to taking meaningful pauses throughout your day, this session will help you and your students breathe, connect, and thrive beyond the bell.
Small Town, Big Impact: Advocating for Rural Education in Kansas
Discover how teaching in Rural Kansas offers unmatched opportunities to lead, innovate, and make a lasting difference - both in the classroom and the community.
Design Thinking in Action: Extending Learning Beyond the Bell
Discover how Design Thinking can transform any classroom into a space where curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving flourish long after the final bell. In this interactive session, you’ll experience a mini Design Thinking sprint and explore practical strategies to adapt this framework for any grade level or subject area. Walk away with ready-to-use tools that empower students to see themselves as innovators and problem-solvers both inside and outside of school.
Track B (Students in blocks B, C, or 2)
Session 1
Track B students who are student teaching Spring 2026
Student Teaching & Licensure: Everything You Need to Know
Preparing for student teaching and obtaining your teaching license can feel overwhelming, but this session will break it all down! Learn about student teaching, eligibility, deadlines, and licensing information. We’ll also discuss options for those seeking a dual placement in a SPED classroom. Get your questions answered and leave feeling confident about your student teaching experience!
Track B students who are NOT student teaching Spring 2026
Building Your First Teaching Resume: Showcasing Skills & Experience
Your resume is your first impression as a future educator—make it count! In this session, we’ll explore the key components of a strong teaching resume, discuss formatting tips, and identify how to highlight your skills and experiences. You’ll leave with practical strategies and confidence to create a resume that stands out to school districts.
Session 2
EdCat Career Chat: A Q&A with HR, Alumni, and Student Teachers
Get real-world advice from school district HR reps, recent EdCat grads, and current student teachers in this interactive Q&A. Learn what to expect in the hiring process, how to stand out, and what it’s really like transitioning into your first teaching role. Come with questions and be ready to engage!
