The term ‘Epic’ is defined as a story that conveys a sense of significance. That’s what school can be: students’ taking part in a significant, purposeful story. Using funny, inspirational stories and researched-based strategies, Trevor shares how to use the power of story, brain science, and authentic learning to help teachers achieve true student engagement. Educators from all subject areas and grade levels will leave with proven practices to create authentic learning experiences, motivation to foster deeper student-connections, and a compelling reminder of the impact educators have on their students’ lives.
The term ‘Epic’ is defined as a story that conveys a sense of significance. That’s what school can be: students’ taking part in a significant, purposeful story. Using funny, inspirational stories and researched-based strategies, Trevor shares how to use the power of story, brain science, and authentic learning to help teachers achieve true student engagement. Educators from all subject areas and grade levels will leave with proven practices to create authentic learning experiences, motivation to foster deeper student-connections, and a compelling reminder of the impact educators have on their students’ lives.
In this informal, interactive conversation, elementary educators are encouraged to ask questions, share stories & experiences, and explore practical classroom strategies. The goal is to create space for authentic dialogue and collaboration around the ideas presented in the keynote.
In this informal, interactive conversation, middle, high and higher education educators are encouraged to ask questions, share stories & experiences, and explore practical classroom strategies. The goal is to create space for authentic dialogue and collaboration around the ideas presented in the keynote.
Come join us for a "big spread" of carved meat, shrimp, vegetables, wine, cheese, mocktails...and birthday cake as we celebrate Copenhaver Institute's 25th birthday. Keynote speaker will meet and greet. Don't forget your copy of The Epic Classroom for Trevor to sign.
Please enjoy breakfast in the Dining Commons (show your Copenhaver Institute badge for entry) or grab a breakfast snack on the upstairs balcony on your way to the morning keynote.
Do you feel like you’re always working, and yet you’ve never done enough? In this keynote, you’ll discover simple mindset shifts that will empower you to teach or lead from the perspective of doing fewer things, better. Learn practical ways schools have streamlined, simplified, and even eliminated low-level tasks to create more space in the day for deep work and innovative practices. Discover actionable ideas for analyzing and adjusting status quo procedures that aren’t the highest use of your time. You’ll walk away knowing how to set clear, realistic goals and focus your energy on the highest priorities.
Now that we’ve identified high priorities and found ways to simplify and streamline the rest, let’s focus on maximizing our time. What if we stopped forcing ourselves and our students to get important work done, and approached productivity as a lifelong experiment we can have fun exploring together? Discover what the latest neuro-scientific principles teach us about managing time, energy, and focused attention. We’ll unpack Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s research on the flow state, then use interactive activities and discussions to help you find ways to incorporate this optimal state of human experience within your work.
What else might be possible in your secondary or higher education classroom beyond the status quo? Create a new vision for your work through a “fewer things, better” lens, and incorporate principles of flow theory so you can co-thrive with your students. Share and discover what’s working, what new things you may want to try, and brainstorm solutions to common problems with Angela and your fellow educators.
Culturally relevant pedagogy has become so ubiquitous that its meaning has blurred, leaving teachers unsure of whether and how they may reflect its core principles in their teaching practice. This session explores its history and invites teachers to reimagine culturally relevant instruction that centers and values students, families, and communities.
Angela will meet and greet in the Ballroom between her afternoon discussion sessions. We will also be selling Angela's book, Fewer Things, Better, and she will be happy to sign it for you.
What else might be possible in your elementary classroom beyond the status quo? Create a new vision for your work through a “fewer things, better” lens, and incorporate principles of flow theory so you can co-thrive with your students. Share and discover what’s working, what new things you may want to try, and brainstorm solutions to common problems with Angela and your fellow educators.
Amie will meet and greet in the first floor atrium during our Relax, Interact and Create block on Tuesday afternoon. We will also be selling Amie's brand new book, Literacy Unlocked, and she will be happy to sign it for you.
Amy Fender, Education Support Navigator at Carilion Children's Pediatric Hematology & Oncology Clinic, would love to share ideas and free education resources with you that support children with cancer. Stop by and meet her in the first floor atrium during our Relax, Interact and Create block on Tuesday afternoon.
Enjoy conversation, chat with our roving videographer and strike a pose at our "25th Birthday" photo booth. Photos will be uploaded on our Facebook and Instagram sites.
Relax your neck and shoulders with a ten-Minute chair massage, offered in the Garrett lounge on second floor of Colket Center (down the hallway leading from the balcony). Available spots must be reserved on Sign-Up Genius. First come, first served to reserve :-)
Come paint a pallet for your home or classroom! "Pallets by Poff" artists, Laura Poff and Missy Farthing will share designs to choose from and leave room for creative personal touches. All supplies are provided.
PLEASE NOTE: Participation is limited to 25 guests. Reserve your spot on Sign-Up Genius. Registration is first come, first served (if all slots are filled, be sure to revisit in case someone drops).
Relax and create your own succulent terrarium for your classroom or home! Karen Gordon, owner of A New Leaf in Downtown Roanoke, will furnish all you need for your creation and also share how to care for your plants.
PLEASE NOTE: Participation is limited to 25 guests. Reserve your spot on Sign-Up Genius. Registration is first come, first served (if all slots are filled, be sure to revisit in case someone drops).
Enjoy breakfast in the Dining Commons (show your Copenhaver Institute badge for entry) or grab a breakfast snack on the upstairs balcony on your way to your morning session.
PLEASE NOTE: The Dining Commons entry will close at 9:00 AM, but you may relax and enjoy your breakfast inside the Commons until sessions begin.
Our 25th Birthday award luncheon will feature presentation of the 2025 Copenhaver Contribution to Education Award to Mrs. Tamara Teaff. Following the award presentation Dr. Shamari Reid will share a message intended to inspire participants to prioritize their humanity, self-regard and self care during these trying times.
Dr. Reid will meet and greet in the Ballroom between the award luncheon. We will also be selling his book, Humans Who Teach: A guide to centering love, justice, and liberation in schools, and he will be happy to sign it for you.
