DTAL Conference 2026

Participants will engage in a live Socratic Seminar using an anchor text to experience how structured academic dialogue builds thinking classrooms across disciplines (ELA, science, social studies; ES–HS). This session models how to de-front instruction, increase student discourse, and promote deeper reasoning through evidence-based conversation. Educators will leave with practical structures, questioning techniques, and facilitation moves to create inclusive, student-centered discussions that support future-ready learners.

Discover how teacher clarity serves as a powerful lever to elevate student agency, equity, and belonging. This session explores practical strategies including clear learning intentions, success criteria, and effective feedback to empower students, identify growth barriers, and foster a welcoming environment where every learner can reach their full potential.

Take coding and robotics to the next level with Sphero BOLT+. In this interactive session, participants will explore block-based and text-based programming while tackling engaging challenges. Learn how BOLT+ supports computer science, engineering design, and real-world problem-solving in a fun, approachable way.

Take coding and robotics to the next level with Sphero BOLT+. In this interactive session, participants will explore block-based and text-based programming while tackling engaging challenges. Learn how BOLT+ supports computer science, engineering design, and real-world problem-solving in a fun, approachable way.

This session explores how Sphero Indi cars can be used in elementary classrooms (K–5) to build foundational computer science and problem-solving skills through hands-on, screen-free coding. Participants will engage in interactive challenges that integrate science, math, and critical thinking while promoting collaboration and creativity. Aligned with strategic goals of preparing future-ready learners, this session highlights how purposeful technology use fosters independence, perseverance, and real-world application of skills. Attendees will leave with ready-to-implement ideas that inspire meaningful student engagement.

Meeting the diverse academic and social-emotional needs of middle school students requires intentional structures that are both flexible and sustainable for educators. This session is designed for teachers and specialists and will showcase how our middle school developed and implemented Thrive Time—a daily, schoolwide class embedded into the master schedule that provides targeted academic support, enrichment opportunities, and meaningful student choice. Participants will explore multiple models and practical approaches for implementing a similar structure in their own schools, with a focus on balancing student needs, teacher capacity, and schoolwide consistency. The session will emphasize how Thrive Time promotes collaboration among teachers and specialists while aligning instructional practices across the building.