DTAL Conference 2026

This session provides middle and high school educators, instructional coaches, and district leaders with a research-based examination of artificial intelligence’s environmental footprint and systemic impacts. Current data from assorted stakeholders will provide attendees with a broader understanding of diverse perspectives. Participants will be empowered to identify strategies for engaging in respectful discourse with students, considering the environmentally conscious, highly creative, morally driven, and/or socially responsible learner. The session also examines the necessity of being prepared with various methods and tools to support student voice and decision-making.

Explore how Snorkl helps make student thinking visible while supporting future-ready instruction in grades 6–12 classrooms. Participants will learn how students can explain their reasoning using voice and visuals while receiving timely AI-generated feedback. Discover how teachers can establish clear success criteria, leverage real-time formative assessment, and encourage students to revise their thinking until mastery is achieved. Leave with practical strategies for using Snorkl as a digital teaching assistant that amplifies feedback, deepens understanding, and inspires greater instructional impact.

When students can see their thinking, they can make sense of mathematics in powerful ways. In this interactive session, elementary educators will explore how hands-on models bring mathematical concepts to life and create multiple entry points that support all learners—especially students with disabilities—in developing deep understanding. Through engaging problem-solving experiences, participants will examine how concrete representations support the transition to abstract thinking. Leave with practical strategies to design instruction that increases access, engagement, and student ownership for every learner.

Discover how powerful community partnerships and student-led volunteerism can transform school communities! In this interactive session, participants will explore meaningful ways partners can contribute beyond the classroom, uncover inclusive strategies that welcome all volunteers, and reflect on their own strengths. Then, shift the spotlight to students—identify existing events, elevate student leadership, and design one ready-to-implement, student-led volunteer idea. You’ll leave with a practical next step, clear support needs, and fresh inspiration to boost engagement for student success.

This session equips general education teachers and classroom staff across grade levels with practical strategies for embedding core vocabulary boards into daily instruction to support communication, engagement, and access for all learners. Participants will learn how to model core vocabulary across routines and academic activities (including literacy and classroom discourse), helping students who use AAC actively participate alongside peers. Aligned with goals for inclusive, future-ready learners, this session emphasizes simple, sustainable practices that build communication, independence, and meaningful classroom interaction without requiring specialized expertise.