Track A
Sessions Track A
Session 1 — 9:35–10:15 AM
Credit Union of America - Loan Basics: A Guide to Borrowing
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.
Dr. Ambyr Rios - Feels Kinda Chic to See the World: Studying Abroad as a Future Educator
Studying abroad can expand your world—and your future classroom—in ways you may not expect. Join Dr. Ambyr Rios for a conversation about the opportunities, questions, and experiences that come with studying abroad. Discover how stepping outside your comfort zone and experiencing new places and cultures can broaden your perspective and help shape the educator you become.
Jayme Morris-Hardeman - Reducing Stress for a Healthier You!
Stress is a part of everyday life, but too much of it can take a toll on both our minds and bodies. In this session, learn more about how stress affects us and explore practical strategies for reducing and managing it. Walk away with simple tools you can use to support your own well-being while navigating the demands of school, work, and life.
Kelsie Brenneman & Samantha Netterman - The Many Hats of Teaching
Being a rural teacher means wearing many hats—educator, mentor, leader, community member, and so much more. In this session, Kelsie Brenneman and Samantha Netterman will share the many roles that come with teaching in a rural school and the importance of building meaningful connections within the classroom and community. Future educators will gain an authentic look at rural teaching and discover how embracing these different roles can make a lasting impact on students, schools, and communities.
Dr. James Alberto + ED ASTRA - Rural Education: Big Opportunities in Small Communities
What does it really look like to teach, lead, and make an impact in rural Kansas? Join members of ED ASTRA, the College of Education’s student-led organization focused on promoting teaching in rural schools and districts, for a conversation about the opportunities that rural education has to offer. Hear about their experiences connecting with rural schools and communities and discover how future educators can get involved, build relationships, and make a meaningful difference across Kansas.
Session 2 — 10:25–11:05 AM
Credit Union of America - Loan Basics: A Guide to Borrowing
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.
Kelsey Sproul - Teaching Elementary Literacy Through Agriculture: Making Learning Relevant and Meaningful
Agriculture can provide an authentic and meaningful context for developing elementary literacy skills. In this session, explore how agricultural topics can be incorporated into literacy instruction to make reading, writing, and learning more relevant for students. Future educators will leave with ideas for connecting literacy standards to real-world agricultural concepts in ways that engage learners and bring classroom content to life.
Nancy Zenger-Beneda - Could Agriculture Be the Curriculum Connection in Your Classroom?
Discover how agriculture can serve as a real-world context for connecting content areas, engaging students in authentic learning, and making classroom concepts relevant. Through hands-on exploration and practical examples, participants will identify ways to use agriculture to strengthen interdisciplinary learning without being an agriculture teacher.
Dr. Ambyr Rios - Feels Kinda Chic to See the World: Studying Abroad as a Future Educator
Studying abroad can expand your world—and your future classroom—in ways you may not expect. Join Dr. Ambyr Rios for a conversation about the opportunities, questions, and experiences that come with studying abroad. Discover how stepping outside your comfort zone and experiencing new places and cultures can broaden your perspective and help shape the educator you become.
Dr. James Alberto + ED ASTRA - Rural Education: Big Opportunities in Small Communities
What does it really look like to teach, lead, and make an impact in rural Kansas? Join members of ED ASTRA, the College of Education’s student-led organization focused on promoting teaching in rural schools and districts, for a conversation about the opportunities that rural education has to offer. Hear about their experiences connecting with rural schools and communities and discover how future educators can get involved, build relationships, and make a meaningful difference across Kansas.
Track B (Students in blocks B, C, or 2)
Session 1 9:35–10:15 AM
Track B students who ARE student teaching Spring 2027
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 2027
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 10:25–11:05 AM
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!
