Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming education, and as it becomes a bigger part of our classrooms, it’s time to reimagine how we assess student learning. Join this dynamic session where we’ll explore the exciting opportunities AI brings, tackle its challenges, and dive into innovative, game-changing assessment strategies. Discover fresh ways to truly gauge your students' mastery and potential, empowering you to elevate learning in bold new directions!
AI Education Leader- Davis School District. AI in Education Consultant- Skill Struck, Computer Science Teacher- Bountiful High School, Masters of Educational Leadership- Utah State University. I have been presenting across the country on Artificial Intelligence in education for the... Read More →
Design thinking is an iterative, human-centered design process emphasizing the user's role in shaping a product’s ultimate design. In this session, participants will learn the fundamental principles of design thinking before learning how to create visually engaging content in Canvas via LTIs, embedded content, and buttons to make their Canvas content more navigable and interactive. Throughout the session, participants will have the opportunity to discuss best practices regarding design and accessibility.
Braxton specializes in using technology to personalize learning and utilizing artificial intelligence to promote student success. Before joining UEN’s professional development team, Braxton worked as a high school language arts teacher and digital learning coach in Jordan School... Read More →
Eric Kirby is author of Leading Gen Z and Alpha and the Keynote speaker. After listening to his fantastic research and findings come ask follow-up questions.
Switching to a more special education focused teaching style has led me to be a happier and more fulfilled educator. I feel that preparing my lesson plans with a special education focus has made teaching "easier" . I've found that there's a general improvement in academics and behaviors as a whole. I feel more prepared. I feel I have a concise sense of each student's learning style. This approach keeps me compliant with special education mandates and I feel that it's helped me connect with all parents in a more meaningful way.
This session is meant for seasoned Nearpod users aiming to build differentiated, self-paced, and/or choice-based lessons. Teachers will learn how to leverage Nearpod’s features with other technology tools (Canvas LMS, Google Workspace, etc.) to create lessons built around the learner. When selecting this session, please provide an additional comment in the space below stating whether most teachers in the session use Canvas or Google Classroom.
Braxton specializes in using technology to personalize learning and utilizing artificial intelligence to promote student success. Before joining UEN’s professional development team, Braxton worked as a high school language arts teacher and digital learning coach in Jordan School... Read More →
Emma's main role is as a Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist and AI Project Co-Lead in Canyons School District. Emma also currently serves as the Artificial Intelligence for K-12 Education Program Director. In addition to her current roles, Emma Moss founded the Utah AI Collaborative... Read More →
Did you know that financial literacy is a required part of the curriculum for all Utah students in grades K-12? (See Utah Code 53E-3-505: https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title53E/Chapter3/53E-3-S505.html). To make this accessible and effective, USBE has partnered with the State Treasu... Read More →
This session is designed to provide educators with a high-level overview of current teacher- and student-facing artificial intelligence (AI) tools. During the session, we’ll begin by discussing AI’s potential benefits and limitations and reviewing key terms. After a brief overview of the current AI landscape, we’ll provide a number of examples of how teachers are using AI to create instructional resources, differentiate instruction, and facilitate engaging and meaningful activities with their students. Finally, we’ll end with a discussion of when AI is and isn’t the right tool to use with students, and we’ll discuss guiding principles for using AI in the classroom.
Braxton specializes in using technology to personalize learning and utilizing artificial intelligence to promote student success. Before joining UEN’s professional development team, Braxton worked as a high school language arts teacher and digital learning coach in Jordan School... Read More →
Personalized, Competency-Based Learning (PCBL) is a lift for many educators. That lift can be mitigated by using technology available in many Utah classrooms. Come learn how common tools like Google, Microsoft, Canvas, Nearpod, Adobe, and a variety of UEN tools can be employed to achieve PCBL goals within your classroom
Dr. Katie Blunt is the UEN product manager over eMedia and hosts UEN's PDTV series. Previously, Katie worked as an Educational Technology Specialist for the Canyons School District and taught sixth grade in the Jordan School District. She served as the Utah Coalition for Educational... Read More →
What skills will tomorrow’s hospitality workers need in an AI-driven world? This forward-thinking session highlights the intersection of customer service, data, and automation. Educators will examine tools used in hotels, resorts, and travel agencies—from AI analytics platforms to robotic room service—and how to adapt instruction to prepare students for tech-forward roles. This session will focus on adaptations to current methods to build in AI Literacy skills. Attendees will walk away with strategies to align their programs with emerging workforce demands and opportunities.
Emma's main role is as a Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist and AI Project Co-Lead in Canyons School District. Emma also currently serves as the Artificial Intelligence for K-12 Education Program Director. In addition to her current roles, Emma Moss founded the Utah AI Collaborative... Read More →
Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping customer service, event planning, and travel experiences—and how to bring these innovations into your CTE classroom. In this hands-on session, secondary educators will explore real-world examples of AI in hotels, restaurants, and tourism operations. Participants will leave with adaptable lesson ideas, student-friendly simulations, and resources for introducing concepts like chatbots, AI-powered bookings, and personalization into the Hospitality & Tourism pathway.
Emma's main role is as a Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist and AI Project Co-Lead in Canyons School District. Emma also currently serves as the Artificial Intelligence for K-12 Education Program Director. In addition to her current roles, Emma Moss founded the Utah AI Collaborative... Read More →
Come find out how to earn CTE endorsements with Utah Microcredentials! Microcredentials are personalized, self-paced competency-based learning for teachers. With microcredentials, you don't have to leave your classroom to earn your endorsement, and you are earning USBE credit in the process.
Amy will show you how to access and earn microcredentials. She'll even give you a voucher to earn your first microcredential for free!
Professional Learning Supervisor/Utah Microcredentials Co-Manager, Davis SD
Amy Coray is a professional learning supervisor and Utah Microcredentials co-manager working in Davis School District. Before coming to her current position, she taught for five years in elementary school and then made the switch to teaching CTE, where she spent four teachers in junior... Read More →
Program Manager, School Support, Utah State Board of Education
Kathleen Maag is a Child Nutrition Programs Sr. Specialist at the Utah State Board of Education. She has been at the agency for six years and has enjoyed every part of it. She is the current lead on Smart Snacks in Schools program requirement and oversees the CTE Fundraiser Exemption... Read More →
Come learn more about Utah Valley University's Hospitality & Tourism program, its initiatives, and how to inspire the next generation of H&T professionals.
Did you know that financial literacy is a required part of the curriculum for all Utah students in grades K-12? (See Utah Code 53E-3-505: https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title53E/Chapter3/53E-3-S505.html). To make this accessible and effective, USBE has partnered with the State Treasu... Read More →
Utah Tech University’s Hotel and Resort Management program prepares students for exciting careers in one of the world’s largest and most dynamic industries. In this session, I will explore the importance of hospitality education, the opportunities available to students, and how high school educators can help guide students toward this rewarding field. We’ll also discuss industry trends, local partnerships, and ways for students to get involved early. Topics to be covered: · Overview of the Hotel and Resort Management program at Utah Tech University · Importance of hospitality education in today’s economy · Current challenges in the hospitality industry and in hospitality education · Career opportunities and industries that hire our graduates · Graduate placement rates and career outlook · Unique program features: · Pathways for high school students to enter the program
Dr. Saeed Vayghan is an Assistant Professor and the founding coordinator of the Hotel and Resort Management program at Utah Tech University. He earned his Ph.D. in Hospitality Administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. His research focuses on technology applications... Read More →
Is your school buzzing with the term PCBL? Join us in this dynamic session as we explore the exciting world of personalized competency-based learning. Discover what PCBL truly means, how it transforms traditional education, and why it’s the future of student-centered learning. Peek behind the curtain and see PCBL in action! Explore real-world examples and success stories that will ignite your curiosity. Learn how Nearpod seamlessly integrates with PCBL. From interactive lessons to formative assessments, Nearpod empowers educators to create engaging, personalized learning experiences. Ready to take the leap? We’ll guide you through practical strategies for implementing PCBL using Nearpod in your classroom. Don’t miss out—let’s embark on this transformative journey together!
Kayla Towner, a tech enthusiast, is the Product Manager & Technology Specialist at the Utah Education Network (UEN). She loves spending time with her family - playing soccer ⚽️, listening to audiobooks 📚, hiking 🥾, & adventuring around Utah 🏔️. She’s passionate about... Read More →
In this session, Marc Brown, Executive Director of the J.W. Marriott, Jr. Institute at the University of Utah, will share key insights gathered from two years of conversations with industry executives, community leaders, students, and academic innovators. His talk will challenge traditional perceptions of hospitality careers and demonstrate how the principles of hospitality—leadership, adaptability, service excellence, and experience design—are increasingly valued across diverse industries such as healthcare, technology, education, and real estate.
Marc will introduce the Institute’s unique, multidisciplinary approach to hospitality education, highlighting new programs designed to better prepare students for a dynamic and evolving job market. Faculty will be encouraged to broaden how they position hospitality opportunities to their students, viewing hospitality not just as a sector, but as a versatile, future-ready mindset and skill set. This session will inspire CTE educators to expand career pathways, connect hospitality to other disciplines, and empower the next generation of service-minded leaders.
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming education, and as it becomes a bigger part of our classrooms, it’s time to reimagine how we assess student learning. Join this dynamic session where we’ll explore the exciting opportunities AI brings, tackle its challenges, and dive into innovative, game-changing assessment strategies. Discover fresh ways to truly gauge your students' mastery and potential, empowering you to elevate learning in bold new directions!
AI Education Leader- Davis School District. AI in Education Consultant- Skill Struck, Computer Science Teacher- Bountiful High School, Masters of Educational Leadership- Utah State University. I have been presenting across the country on Artificial Intelligence in education for the... Read More →
Get ready to dig deep into Utah’s Online School Library and uncover the hidden gems that will elevate your students’ research skills! In this presentation, you’ll learn how to navigate the library’s extensive resources and discover the best-kept secrets that will help your students excel. Explore the Gale Reference Collection for academic and vetted information on topics like opposing viewpoints, business insights, health & wellness, and science. World Book Online offers detailed articles, videos, interactive maps, and engaging activities. SIRS Issues Researcher allows your students to dive into leading issues in business & economics, civil rights & liberties, communication & technology, and more. Lastly, explore Teaching Books and SORA to further enhance your students’ learning experience. Get your compass and shovels ready to find these hidden gems that will make your students’ research come alive.
Kayla Towner, a tech enthusiast, is the Product Manager & Technology Specialist at the Utah Education Network (UEN). She loves spending time with her family - playing soccer ⚽️, listening to audiobooks 📚, hiking 🥾, & adventuring around Utah 🏔️. She’s passionate about... Read More →
The Olympics are coming back to Salt Lake City in 2034! Business teachers have an excellent opportunity to create activities and lessons related to the preparation for these games. Hospitality and Tourism, as well as Marketing classes will be a prime spot for preparing students to take advantage of job opportunities that may come from the Olympics. In this session, Nate will share some of his classroom activities and teachers will be able to collaborater to generate more great ideas!
Utah has a thriving outdoor tourism and hospitality industry that elevates life for visitors and residents alike. As the University of the Parks, Southern Utah University is uniquely positioned to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to pursue professional careers in this exciting field through its student-centered approach to higher education. This session will introduce attendees to SUU's tourism and hospitality academic programs, internship and professional development opportunities, and explore professional career paths. Teachers will learn how to advise students interested in outdoor tourism and hospitality careers toward appropriate degree programs. Students will learn about the variety of professional opportunities and how they can pursue meaningful, fulfilling careers in the outdoor tourism and hospitality industry.
Dr. Kelly Goonan is an Associate Professor of Outdoor Recreation in Parks and Tourism at Southern Utah University, and also serves as the Associate Dean of the College of Health Sciences. She is passionate about applied, experiential learning and helping students turn their passions... Read More →
Education Specialist - MOA, Utah State Board of Education
Ephraim Zamora brings a unique view to his work of Civil Rights and Special Populations as a leader with extensive experience in strategy and innovation. He joined the Utah State Board of Education in 2021. Focused on building a bridge of cooperation and collaboration.
Together, we’ll create more dynamic, project-based learning opportunities that spark student interest and industry relevance by analyzing our current curriculum, exchanging fresh ideas, and working in breakout groups. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or new to the field, you’ll leave with ready-to-use resources and inspiring strategies to take your classroom to the next destination!
Kim Thompson brings a dynamic blend of industry and education experience to the stage. With a professional background in sales and marketing for the Utah Jazz, Marriott, and Solitude Ski Resort, she offers real-world insight into the hospitality and tourism industry. As a current... Read More →
Is your school buzzing with the term PCBL? Join us in this dynamic session as we explore the exciting world of personalized competency-based learning. Discover what PCBL truly means, how it transforms traditional education, and why it’s the future of student-centered learning. Peek behind the curtain and see PCBL in action! Explore real-world examples and success stories that will ignite your curiosity. Learn how Nearpod seamlessly integrates with PCBL. From interactive lessons to formative assessments, Nearpod empowers educators to create engaging, personalized learning experiences. Ready to take the leap? We’ll guide you through practical strategies for implementing PCBL using Nearpod in your classroom. Don’t miss out—let’s embark on this transformative journey together!
Kayla Towner, a tech enthusiast, is the Product Manager & Technology Specialist at the Utah Education Network (UEN). She loves spending time with her family - playing soccer ⚽️, listening to audiobooks 📚, hiking 🥾, & adventuring around Utah 🏔️. She’s passionate about... Read More →
