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Monday, June 15
 

10:15am EDT

Beyond the Diploma: A Roadmap for Aligning Classrooms, Counseling, and Careers to Improve CCR Outcomes
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 10
Many career and college readiness efforts operate separately across classrooms, advising, and CTE programs, even though everyone shares the same goal of preparing students for life beyond graduation. This session provides a clear, practical approach to aligning those efforts and building a culture focused on student success. If you serve as a…CTE Educator: Discover how to intentionally...
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Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Haynes

Stephanie Haynes

Career Coach and Consultant, Sua Via Coaching and Consulting
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/sua_via_stephanie
Facebook: Sua Via Career Pathway Development
PES Presentation 2026 (3) pdf
School Reflection Sheet (1) pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 10
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Beyond the Diploma: Teaching Career Readiness Skills Every Student Needs (No Matter the Classroom)
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 6
Career readiness is no longer the responsibility of Career and Technical Education alone—it is a shared priority across all classrooms, grade levels, and subject areas. This engaging, high-energy session equips educators, administrators, and community partners with practical, classroom-ready strategies to embed career readiness skills into everyday instruction, without adding to an already full...
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Speakers
avatar for Michael Connet

Michael Connet

Associate Deputy Executive Director - Outreach & Partnerships, Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE)
Michael Connet is the Associate Deputy Executive Director - Outreach and Partner Development at the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE®). In this role, Michael is responsible for promoting the impact of high-quality CTE on America’s learners and supporting the... Read More →
Beyond the Diploma pptx
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 6
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Pathways with Purpose: Partnering to Meet Local Workforce Needs
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 7
How can schools, colleges, and businesses work together to inspire students and meet the evolving needs of our local workforce? In this session, we will explore how Lexington One has partnered with a local community college and area businesses to design career pathways that align with labor market demands. Participants will learn strategies for building sustainable partnerships, creating relevant...
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Speakers
avatar for Sandy Vining

Sandy Vining

Assistant Director Lexington Technology Center, Lexington County School District One
With 28 years of experience in education, Sandy Vining is an emerging leader in Career and Technology Education (CTE). As the Assistant Director at Lexington Technology Center in Lexington County School District One, she is at the forefront of forging collaborative partnerships between... Read More →
avatar for Tara D. Black

Tara D. Black

College and Career Services Coordinator, College and Career Services Coordinator, Lexington County School District One
With over 31 years of experience in education, Tara Black serves as the College and Career Services Coordinator for Lexington County School District One, where she oversees district-wide college, career, and work-based learning initiatives. Drawing on her experience as a high school... Read More →
Pathways with Purpose Partnering to Meet Local Workforce Needs (1) pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 7
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

School–Industry Partnerships: Creating Career Readiness Pathways to Undiscovered Talent
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 8
Strong communities and thriving businesses depend on a prepared workforce. This session explores how school–industry partnerships can create meaningful opportunities for students to demonstrate career readiness while allowing employers the opportunity to discover untapped talent. Participants will learn about a collaborative event which evaluates students’ abilities to demonstrate real-world....
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Robyn Mixon

Dr. Robyn Mixon

Post Secondary Planning Specialist, Dorchester 4 School District
Robyn Mixon is an adjunct professor at Tri-County Technical College and a Transition Specialist in Dorchester 4 School District. Although employed by Dorchester 4 School District for the past 19 years, she has been a Transition Specialist for the past four years. In this role, Dr... Read More →
School–Industry Partnerships Creating Career Readiness Pathways Presentation pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 8
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Siemens Pathway to Learning Engineering: Preparing Students for Real-World Innovation with Educational Resources and Industry Certifications
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 9
Siemens will present the Pathway to Learning Engineering (PLE) — a comprehensive, project-based curriculum designed in collaboration with Siemens engineering experts and educators. This innovative pathway immerses students in authentic design challenges while preparing them for industry-recognized certifications, including NX, Programmable Logic Controllers, and Six Sigma Lean Manufacturing....
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Speakers
avatar for Siemens

Siemens

K-12 STEM Instructional Manager, Siemens Digital Industries
TBD
MS

Meredith Smith

Horry County Schools
Experienced STEM and engineering educator with 25+ years in secondary education, specializing in Project Lead The Way and the Siemens High School Engineering Program. I am a Master Teacher for the South Carolina Siemens Engineering Program and certified to teach multiple PLTW engineering... Read More →
Siemens SW Siemens engineering design Flyer pdf
Siemens SW Manufacturing and automation Flyer pdf
Siemens SW Mechatronics and the Internet of Things Flyer pdf
Siemens SW Engineering research and development Flyer pdf
SC Presentation June 14 18 (1) pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 9
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Skills for Hire: Embedding Employability in Every CTE Classroom
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Wando
Preparing students for the workforce requires more than technical know‑how—it takes communication, teamwork, professionalism, and problem‑solving woven into daily learning. In this session, CTE teachers will explore practical, low‑prep strategies for integrating soft skills seamlessly into existing lessons and labs. Participants will leave with ready‑to-use ideas, classroom routines, and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Herb Bocchino

Dr. Herb Bocchino

CTE Standards and Certifications Coordinator, South Carolina Department of Education
Dr. Herb Bocchino serves as the CTE Standards and Certifications Coordinator in the Office of Career Readiness at the South Carolina Department of Education. He holds a Master’s in Educational Administration and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. With over 20 years of experience... Read More →
avatar for Heather Harmon

Heather Harmon

Pathway Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Heather Harmon is an Innovative Pathway Specialist with the Office of Career Readiness at the South Carolina Department of Education. With 19 years of classroom experience, including 15 years teaching high school English, she is dedicated to expanding high‑quality, future‑ready... Read More →
Skills for Hire Embedding Employability in Every CTE Classroom FINAL 6 14 2026 pptx
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Wando
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Growing Grit in Students: Building Resilience & Resourcefulness in the Next Generation
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 11
Students today have unprecedented access to technology, convenience, and instant answers—yet many struggle with resilience when faced with challenge. How can educators cultivate perseverance, problem-solving, and a growth mindset in this environment? In this engaging session, participants will explore how modern technology is shaping student resilience and learn practical strategies to develop...
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Speakers
AM

Andrew McPeak

Growing Leaders: Powered by Maxwell Leadership
Andrew McPeak is an author, researcher, and expert on emerging generations. He has over a decade of experience working with young adults, from public schools to corporate boardrooms. His deep understanding of the challenges facing today’s young leaders enables him to equip adults... Read More →
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 11
  Character and Resiliency in Education

10:15am EDT

The Palmetto Civics Project
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 12
This professional development session introduces educators to the Palmetto Civics Project, a South Carolina Department of Education initiative designed to strengthen civic literacy, character development, and student engagement through meaningful, real-world connections. Participants will explore key resources such as the Palmetto Pioneers, which highlight influential South Carolinians and the...
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Speakers
CB

Corey Bedenbaugh

South Carolina Department of Education
Corey Bedenbaugh is the 2026 South Carolina Teacher of the Year and passionate advocate for civic literacy. Through a civic-centered approach to teaching and learning, Corey empowers students to think critically, engage meaningfully, and understand their role as active citizens. A... Read More →
The Summit Palmetto Civics Project pptx
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 12
  Civics

10:15am EDT

Accelerate Potential. Ignite Possibility.
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 14
Every child deserves daily access to meaningful, grade‑level learning. Yet educators face a pressing challenge: how do we support students who have fallen behind—including those receiving Special Education services—while still working to close persistent achievement gaps? This session offers a clear framework, practical strategies, and essential mindset shifts to move away from defaulting to...
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Speakers
avatar for Andrea Niesse

Andrea Niesse

South Carolina Department of Education
Andrea Niesse brings 25 years of experience in education with a strong emphasis on early literacy and educational neuroscience.  As a first year teacher in an urban elementary school in Memphis, TN she discovered early on that she needed a stronger foundation to teach struggling... Read More →
Accelerate Potential pptx
UDL Guidelines Chart pdf
Hess RbD scaffolding summary Final pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 14
  Literacy

10:15am EDT

Lasting Learning Through Interleaving: A Powerful Strategy for All Levels of Math
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 13
Learn how mixing different types of math problems—rather than grouping them by skill—dramatically strengthens students’ retention and problem-solving. In this interactive session, teachers will examine the cognitive science behind interleaving practice, experience classroom-ready examples, and plan lessons that weave new and prior skills together. Leave with practical strategies to help...
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Speakers
avatar for Paul Riccomini

Paul Riccomini

Professor, The Pennsylvania State University
Dr. Paul Riccomini is a highly respected expert in mathematics education, specializing in high intensity instructional techniques for mathematics.
With a mathematics degree and dual certifications as a high school math and special education teacher, Paul possesses in-depth knowledge of content matter and evidence-based instructional techniques. Drawing from extensive classroom experience, Paul understands the unique challenges... Read More →
IPF Retention COLOR HANDOUT RICCOMINI pdf
IPF Retention B&W HANDOUT RICCOMINI pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 13
  Numeracy

11:30am EDT

Envision an Educational System that Connects Core and Career Learning
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 9
Education cannot exist in silos. Student learning builds on previously learned concepts. Employers insist that educators build character and employability skills. Character readiness, college readiness, and career readiness are all essential in preparing students for their next steps after high school and eventually to a life-long career. Join us as we "Envision an Educational System that Connects...
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Speakers
avatar for Bryce Myers

Bryce Myers

Lexington County School District One
Bryce Myers graduated from Francis Marion University with a BBA in Management in May of 1997. He then enrolled at Winthrop University and obtained a MAT in Business Education in December of 1998. In the fall of 1999. Mr. Myers was hired as a Business and marketing teacher at Lexington... Read More →
Connecting Core and Career Learning pptx
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 9
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

Forging Futures, E-Learning in Career and Technical Education A Research-Informed Framework for Digital Integration Across CTE Programs
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 8
In CTE, this bridge between theory and application is particularly critical. Students must develop technical competence alongside analytical reasoning, ethical judgment, and professional identity. Instruction must therefore extend beyond content transmission to intentional skill formation within authentic workforce contexts
Speakers
avatar for Steven Watterson

Steven Watterson

Education Associate, South Carolina Department of Education Office of Career Readiness
Steven Watterson- Retired as a United States Naval Engineering Officer 01 July 2005 and immediately entered public education as a Project Lead the Way teacher at F.P. Hamilton Career Center in the school district of Oconee County. Leaving Secondary for Post-Secondary becoming associate... Read More →
JP

Jay Pearson

Greenville County School District
Jay Adam Pearson, Building Construction Instructor at Enoree Career Center. Like many instructors in Career and Technical Education (CTE), I did not begin as an educator. My path to Enoree Career Center began at Eastern Wayne High School in 1978 where I enrolled in carpentry classes... Read More →
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 8
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

Future Ready from the Start: Get in the Game!
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 7
What if we started preparing students for their careers the same way we prepare them for sports — by teaching the rules, practicing the skills, and building confidence early? SC Career Kids is helping schools build a strong workforce foundation by introducing career awareness in elementary school through hands on exploration, purposeful play, and meaningful conversations with community helpers...
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Speakers
KW

Katy Wiggs

SC Career Kids
Katy Wiggs is an educator, workforce development advocate, and the Founder of SC Career Kids, a South Carolina nonprofit dedicated to helping children explore careers, build life skills, and connect classroom learning to real world opportunities.SC Career Kids was born during COVID... Read More →
BL

Beth Lechner

SC Career Kids
Beth Lechner, an experienced educator, serves as the Program Director of Career Kids for SC Career Kids, where she leads the development and implementation of after school Career Clubs and career focused camps across South Carolina.With a background in education and a passion for... Read More →
PB

Pollyanna Buff

SC Career Kids
Pollyanna Buff serves as the Program Director of Safety Town for SC Career Kids, leading the growth and implementation of the organization’s signature early childhood safety education program across South Carolina.A retired teacher, Pollyanna brings years of classroom experience... Read More →
Future Ready from the Start Get in the Game! pptx
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 7
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

OSHA 10: The Credential of Value for CTE Students Entering the Workforce
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 6
Industry-recognized credentials are becoming increasingly important in Career and Technical Education programs as schools work to better prepare students for employment after graduation. This session will explore the value of the OSHA 10-Hour safety credential as a foundational certification for students entering a wide range of career pathways. Participants will learn how OSHA 10 helps students...
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Speakers
avatar for Justin Williamson

Justin Williamson

Sales Executive, CareerSafe
Justin Williamson is a Sales Executive with CareerSafe, where he works with school districts, technical colleges, and workforce development programs across the country to expand access to OSHA safety training and workforce readiness credentials. With 17 years of experience in education... Read More →
SC June 26 pptx
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 6
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

Skills for Hire: Embedding Employability in Every CTE Classroom
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Wando
Preparing students for the workforce requires more than technical know‑how—it takes communication, teamwork, professionalism, and problem‑solving woven into daily learning. In this session, CTE teachers will explore practical, low‑prep strategies for integrating soft skills seamlessly into existing lessons and labs. Participants will leave with ready‑to-use ideas, classroom routines, and...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Herb Bocchino

Dr. Herb Bocchino

CTE Standards and Certifications Coordinator, South Carolina Department of Education
Dr. Herb Bocchino serves as the CTE Standards and Certifications Coordinator in the Office of Career Readiness at the South Carolina Department of Education. He holds a Master’s in Educational Administration and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. With over 20 years of experience... Read More →
avatar for Heather Harmon

Heather Harmon

Pathway Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Heather Harmon is an Innovative Pathway Specialist with the Office of Career Readiness at the South Carolina Department of Education. With 19 years of classroom experience, including 15 years teaching high school English, she is dedicated to expanding high‑quality, future‑ready... Read More →
Skills for Hire Embedding Employability in Every CTE Classroom FINAL 6 14 2026 pptx
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Wando
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

Resilience Starts with Independence: How Educators Can Foster Student Self-Reliance
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 11
Many educators unknowingly limit student growth through well-intentioned overprotection and over-involvement in classroom and school activities. This highly interactive session reveals the science behind how independence builds resilience and explores why stepping back—not hovering, managing, or constantly helping—is the most powerful teaching strategy available. Participants will examine the...
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Speakers
avatar for Andrea Keith

Andrea Keith

Executive Director, Let Grow
With experience as an elementary educator and 14 years in education technology start-ups, Andrea Keith is the Executive Director of Let Grow, a nonprofit promoting childhood independence, resilience, and well-being.  Under her leadership, Let Grow has expanded to reach close to a... Read More →
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 11
  Character and Resiliency in Education

11:30am EDT

Civics in Action: Medal of Honor Character Development Program
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 12
Discover how the Medal of Honor Character Development Program brings democratic principles to life through powerful, real-world stories. This interactive session showcases free lessons that build civic engagement, ethical decision-making, and student voice. Participants will explore primary sources, short video scenarios, and discussion strategies that help students connect acts of courage and...
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Speakers
avatar for Javier Martinez

Javier Martinez

Medal of Honor Foundation
Javier Martinez graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1982 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was commissioned as a 2ndLT through the NROTC Program and served as an Officer in the Marine Corps, in both the Active and Reserve Forces, for 10 years. After leaving the... Read More →
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 12
  Civics

11:30am EDT

South Carolina High School Law Review: How Constitutional Law Cultivates Agreeable Disagreement
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 10
What can constitutional law teach students about respectful disagreement? High School Law Review explores that question through Supreme Court case analysis, structured oral presentation, and legal writing. In this workshop, we'll look at how HSLR fits into existing Government courses and how students are rewarded for publishing legal analysis in school-based, state-wide, and national law reviews....
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Speakers
avatar for Pierce Watson

Pierce Watson

Studium, High School Law Review
OG

Olivia Gross

Studium, High School Law Review
Olivia Eve Gross is the Founder and CEO of Studium, whose mission is to teach students how to agreeably disagree. Through products like High School Law Review and Middle School Law Review, students engage with constitutional questions, publish their ideas, and learn to debate evidence... Read More →
Palmetto Education Summit HSLR.pptx pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 10
  Civics

11:30am EDT

Teach the Stuff and Cut the Fluff While Still Having Fun
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 14
Do you want to ensure all your students achieve grade-level expectations?  Are you looking for instructional practices that are proven to lead to high levels of achievement?  Join us to learn how to utilize essential components of explicit instruction throughout your entire instructional day.
Speakers
AG

Audrey Goninan

Literacy Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Audrey Goninan, M.Ed., is a Literacy Specialist with the Office of Instructional Supports for the South Carolina Department of Education.  In this role, she supports schools and districts in the Upstate region, with a focus on building teachers' knowledge and implementation of evidence-based... Read More →
BD

Brittany Daniels

Literacy Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Brittany Daniels is a National Board Certified educator and two-time graduate of the University of South Carolina with over 21 years of dedicated service to students and educators. After spending a decade in the elementary classroom, she transitioned into the role of school-based... Read More →
Best Practices pdf
Palmetto Education Summit 1 HOUR SESSION Teach the Stuff and Cut the Fluff While Still Having Fun pdf
Hold Up Card pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 14
  Literacy

11:30am EDT

From Research to Classroom Practice: A Collaborative Partnership for Implementing Cognitive Based High-Impact Math Strategies
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 13
What does it take to move evidence-based strategies from professional development into consistent classroom practice? This session highlights a district–research partnership focused on implementing Interleaving Practice Format (IPF) and Worked Solution Strategy (WSS). Participants will explore a three-step model: collaborative professional learning to build understanding, instructional coaching...
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Speakers
CL

Candace Lane

Horry County Schools
Candace W Lane, brings 36 years of dedicated service to public education, grounded in an unwavering belief that public schools are the fabric of our society. With 14 years in the classroom, Candace developed a deep understanding of the art and science of teaching—recognizing that... Read More →
avatar for Paul Riccomini

Paul Riccomini

Professor, The Pennsylvania State University
Dr. Paul Riccomini is a highly respected expert in mathematics education, specializing in high intensity instructional techniques for mathematics.
With a mathematics degree and dual certifications as a high school math and special education teacher, Paul possesses in-depth knowledge of content matter and evidence-based instructional techniques. Drawing from extensive classroom experience, Paul understands the unique challenges... Read More →
HCS Session FINAL B&W HANDOUTS RICCOMINI pdf
HCS Session FINAL COLOR HANDOUTS RICCOMINI pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 13
  Numeracy

2:15pm EDT

From Insight to Impact: Transforming CTE with Career-Connected Learning
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 7
From Insight to Impact: Transforming CTE with Career-Connected Learning What happens when student aptitude data meets authentic career-connected learning? This session offers both big-picture strategy and practical implementation steps for districts seeking to strengthen and grow any program or pathway. Learn how the Biomedical Science Program at Aiken County Career & Technology Center transformed...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Christie Palladino

Dr. Christie Palladino

Biomedical Science Instructor, Aiken County School District
Dr. Christie Palladino discovered her passion for teaching through her career as an obstetrician-gynecologist and health science education researcher. She teaches biomedical science at the Aiken County Career and Technology Center (ACCTC). Palladino is a native of Williston, South... Read More →
avatar for Art Maxwell

Art Maxwell

YouScience
Art Maxwell is a passionate sales and marketing professional who believes deeply in the power of connection, purpose, and helping people discover what they are truly capable of. With a strong background in K-12 education, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and workforce development... Read More →
insighttoimpact handout pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 7
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Inside the New School Counseling & Career Guidance Framework: What You Need to Know for 2026 and Beyond
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 12
South Carolina is entering an exciting new era in school counseling and career guidance—and this session gives leaders the tools, clarity, and confidence to put the state’s revised Comprehensive School Counseling and Career Guidance Framework into action. Participants will explore the Framework’s four core components—Define, Deliver, Manage, and Assess—and discover how these elements...
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Speakers
DE

Dr. Erin Clarke

South Carolina Department of Education
Erin Clarke, Ed.D., serves as Education Associate at the South Carolina Department of Education, where she is the School Counseling and Career Specialist Liaison. With 17 years of experience and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, she leads statewide initiatives to support... Read More →
PES 2026 Inside the New School Counseling and Career Guidance Model What You Need to Know for 2026 and Beyond pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 12
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Siemens Exploring the World of Engineering: Engaging Middle School Students Through Project-Based STEM and Real-World Design
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 9
This session introduces Siemens Exploring the World of Engineering, a modular, project-based middle grades curriculum that immerses students in authentic STEM challenges across design, automation technology, autonomous electric vehicles, aerospace technology, energy management, informatics, biomedical manufacturing and engineering, and artificial intelligence. Participants will explore how eight...
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Speakers
avatar for Siemens

Siemens

K-12 STEM Instructional Manager, Siemens Digital Industries
TBD
MS

Meredith Smith

Horry County Schools
Experienced STEM and engineering educator with 25+ years in secondary education, specializing in Project Lead The Way and the Siemens High School Engineering Program. I am a Master Teacher for the South Carolina Siemens Engineering Program and certified to teach multiple PLTW engineering... Read More →
Siemens Exploring the World of Engineering Scope and Sequence (6) pdf
SC Presentation June 14 18 6 11 26 pdf
SC Presentation June 14 18 6 11 26 pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 9
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

The Great Disagreement Game: Turn “Whatever…” into “I hear you”
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 6
Disagreements happen in every classroom and workplace, but they don’t have to lead to negative consequences. This interactive session equips educators with practical strategies to help students navigate differing opinions with confidence and respect. Through engaging activities, role-play scenarios, and “game-style” challenges, participants will learn how to teach active listening, emotional...
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Speakers
JS

Julie Sharpe

Microburst
Julie is a soft‑skills implementation specialist who trains and coaches educators to build durable workplace‑readiness skills. She supports instructors from elementary through college levels, helping them confidently integrate EmployABILITY Soft Skills into daily instruction... Read More →
avatar for Rebecca Bazzle

Rebecca Bazzle

Microburst Learning
Rebecca Bazzle is the Chief Operating Officer of Microburst Learning, where she leads the development of EmployABILITY Soft Skills programs and customized training for organizations worldwide. She collaborates with experts across education, industry, and healthcare to create engaging... Read More →
LH

Lizzie Harris

Microburst Learning
Lizzie Harris is an instructional creative with Microburst Learning, where she helps educators bring EmployABILITY Soft Skills to life in the classroom. Since 2022, she has supported teacher trainings, sharing practical strategies for engaging learners and building the durable skills... Read More →
The Great Disagreement Game V5 Upload pptx
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 6
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

WOW! The "World of Work" Catawba Region Middle School Career Conferences
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 8
This session will allow attendees to explore the magic of WOW Conferences that take middle school students through the World of Work using the Career Clusters. The conference provides an intentional approach to helping students gain a true understanding of various careers. The conference brings businesses together with their future workforce and connects them with local middle school educators....
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Speakers
TM

Thomas Monroe

Regional Workforce Advisor-Catawba, South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce
Thomas Monroe currently serves as the Regional Workforce Advisor for the Catawba Region at the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce. In this role, he works at the intersection of education, industry, and community leadership—helping strengthen the state’s talent... Read More →
BB

Beth Bottini

Regional Career Specialist - Catawba
CT

Celeste Tiller

York County Regional Chamber of Commerce
Celeste Tiller is the Vice President of Talent & Workforce Development for the York County Regional Chamber of Commerce (Rock Hill, South Carolina), Adjunct Professor at Winthrop University, and Business Leads Fellow with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF). In her role... Read More →
Palmetto Education Summit WOW! World of Work pdf
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 8
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Creating Cultures that CARE: Character, Resilience, and Community in Action
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 11
Creating a positive school culture requires more than programs—it requires intentional leadership and a shared commitment to character, resilience, and community. Facilitated by Dr. Jamie Spinks, Managing Coach at Franklin Covey Education and former Lighthouse School Principal and successful school principal, hear from Leader in Me leaders, as they discuss how they are building cultures that...
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Speakers
JD

Jennifer Dodds

Assistant Principal, Greenville County Schools
Jennifer Dodds is the proud principal of Mauldin Elementary, where leadership isn’t just taught—it’s lived every day. A graduate of Clemson University, she brings 24 years of experience in education, including 7 years as a principal. She is a passionate advocate for the Leader... Read More →
AS

Andrew Shipman

Pickens School District
Andrew Shipman is an experienced educational leader currently serving as the Principal of Crosswell Elementary School. He is passionate about improving student outcomes through data-driven instruction, strategic program development,with a focus on supporting the whole child.
Since becoming principal in 2023, Principal Shipman has led the implementation of a comprehensive Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and guided the transformation into a Leader in Me school. Through this work, Crosswell Elementary has developed a culture centered on leadership... Read More →
avatar for Rhonda Rhodes

Rhonda Rhodes

SC Client Partner, Franklin Covey Education
Rhonda Rhodes is an experienced educator and leadership practitioner with more than 30 years of service as a teacher, school leader, and district leader. A nationally recognized principal, she was honored as a National Distinguished Principal and led a globally recognized Leader in... Read More →
JS

Jamie Spinks

Franklin Covey Education
Dr. Jamie Spinks serves as a Managing Coach with Leader in Me, where he partners with schools and districts to strengthen leadership, culture, and student empowerment. With extensive experience as a school administrator and principal, Dr. Spinks is passionate about helping educators... Read More →
MR

Michael Randall

Laurens County School District 56
Michael Randall serves as Assistant Principal at Clinton Middle School in Laurens County School District 56. As part of the school’s leadership team, he supports school culture, student leadership, and academic growth while helping foster a safe and supportive learning environment... Read More →
ML

Miranda Leopard

West Pelzer Elementary / Anderson 1 School District
Miranda Leopard is an experienced educational leader currently serving as the principal of West Pelzer Elementary School. She brings over 20 years of experience in education, including the last 12 years at West Pelzer, where she has served as a literacy coach, assistant principal... Read More →
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 11
  Character and Resiliency in Education

2:15pm EDT

A Shared Approach to Improve Literacy Skills of Learners in South Carolina with Evidence-Based Practices
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 14
Educators, families, and community members must all work together to improve the literacy skills of our youth in South Carolina. Join us for this interactive session as members of the Academic Alliance of South Carolina share three evidence-based practices that teachers, tutors, mentors, and parents can use across all content areas and at any grade level to improve the literacy skills of students...
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Speakers
DP

Deana Parish

Academic Alliance of South Carolina
Deanna Parish, Ph.D. has been serving students with disabilities for over 25 years. As a classroom teacher, she worked with students with intellectual disabilities, specializing in students with extensive support needs. Dr. Parish has also served as a lead teacher, working with other... Read More →
ST

Susan Thomas

Academic Alliance of South Carolina
Dr. Thomas is a passionate educator and has over 45 years of experience. She retired from the South Carolina public school system, having served 18 years as a general and special education teacher, 9 years as a director of special education for two school districts, and 3 years at... Read More →
avatar for Ginger Catoe

Ginger Catoe

Academic Alliance of South Carolina
A career educator, Virginia K. Catoe most recently served as the Director for Elementary Education and Early Childhood (CERDEP) and Title I Director for the Kershaw County School District where she supported the instructional programs in our elementary schools (PK-5).  Prior to becoming... Read More →
JS

Jenny Saunders

Academic Alliance of South Carolina
Jenny Saunders has nearly 2 decades of experience working in the South Carolina public education system. She spent the first 15 years as a school psychologist in Berkeley County School District, working in elementary, middle, and high schools. Jenny spent eight years serving as a... Read More →
A Shared Approach to Improve Literacy Skills of Learners in South Carolina with Evidence Based Practices pptx
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 14
  Literacy

2:15pm EDT

Palmetto Math: Where Every Student in South Carolina is a Math Student
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 13
Have you ever heard the phrase, "I'm just not a math person." If so, this session is for you. Participants will gain insights on how using Concrete-Representational-Abstract (CRA) across all grade levels can create math kids and improve math outcomes. Through CRA, students develop a tactile and visual "anchor" for math concepts that create lasting mental representations that students can use when...
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Speakers
SP

Sheah Pacheco

South Carolina Department of Education
Sheah Pacheco serves as a Math Specialist with the Palmetto Math Project, bringing 16 years of experience in education to her work with supporting high-quality math instruction.
Her work as a mathematics educator across three states has equipped her with a broad understanding of diverse curricula, student populations, and math instructional practices. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from East Carolina University and a masters degree... Read More →
ES

Elizabeth Shumpert

South Carolina Department of Education
Elizabeth Schumpert is honored to serve as the Team Lead for the Palmetto Math Project.  She has 28 years of experience in public education in South Carolina. Before joining the S.C. State Department of Education, Elizabeth spent 26 years in Saluda County Schools as a teacher, instructional... Read More →
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 13
  Numeracy

2:15pm EDT

Certification Central: TOSA by Isograd
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Cooper
Join us for a session of Certification Central with TOSA by Isograd.
Speakers
avatar for Heather Harmon

Heather Harmon

Pathway Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Heather Harmon is an Innovative Pathway Specialist with the Office of Career Readiness at the South Carolina Department of Education. With 19 years of classroom experience, including 15 years teaching high school English, she is dedicated to expanding high‑quality, future‑ready... Read More →
avatar for Jen Fausto

Jen Fausto

Business Development Manager, Tosa by Isograd
Developed by Isograd, Tosa is an industry-recognized digital skills certification solution that offers a unique, proficiency-based, and adaptive testing approach, unlike traditional pass/fail exams. Tosa certifies digital skills across desktop and graphic design applications, digital... Read More →
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Cooper
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

SC ACTE Annual Business Meeting
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 4:45pm EDT
Wando
Join SCACTE leadership and members for the Annual Business Meeting, featuring official association business, officer elections, and the presentation of SCACTE awards. Members are encouraged to attend and participate as we recognize excellence and plan for the year ahead. Non-members are welcomed to attend as well to learn more about the opportunities SCACTE offers.
Speakers
avatar for Anna Snipes

Anna Snipes

Health Science Education Associate, SC ACTE
I am the Health Science Education Associate at the SC Department of Education. I am available to answer questions about Health Science courses, standards, concentrators, completers, certifications, credentials, and SC HOSA. Prior to joining the SCDE, I taught health science for 6... Read More →
Monday June 15, 2026 2:15pm - 4:45pm EDT
Wando
  Career Readiness
 
Tuesday, June 16
 

10:15am EDT

Bridging Education and Workforce: Discussion on Strengthening Career Readiness within the Classroom.
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 6
Join us for an educator-focused session on how WIN Learning’s Career Readiness Solutions are helping strengthen CTE programs and drive student success. Hear how schools and programs across South Carolina are using WIN’s Academic and Soft Skills courseware and credentials to build employability skills, increase student confidence, and support stronger placement, progression, and retention...
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Speakers
avatar for Lesa Norris

Lesa Norris

Customer Success Manager, WIN Learning
Lesa Norris is a Sr. Customer Success Manager for WIN Learning, as well as a trainer and coach. Her experience includes working with job seekers, employers, educators, state agencies, workforce boards, economic development professionals, and job changers to prepare individuals for... Read More →
avatar for Ken Boddie

Ken Boddie

Regional Account Manager, WIN Learning
Ken Boddie is a Regional Account Manager with WIN Learning, where he has spent the past nine years partnering with educators, workforce leaders, and state agencies across the Carolina's to advance career readiness initiatives. He works closely with school districts, workforce boards... Read More →
avatar for Nate Walker

Nate Walker

Customer Success Manager, WIN Learning
Nate serves as a Customer Success Manager at WIN Learning and currently reside on Johns Island in the scenic Lowcountry region. Prior to joining WIN, I dedicated over a decade to teaching high school mathematics. Education has always been a core passion of mine, and my role at WIN... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 6
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Creating Career Connections: Your South Carolina Regional Career Specialist Team
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 7
This session will introduce you to your Regional Career Specialist team and the services they offer. Your Regional Career Specialist team is your direct connection to the South Carolina Department of Education, Office of Career Readiness.
Speakers
avatar for Lisa Call

Lisa Call

Regional Career Specialist, Regional Career Specialist - Midlands
As dedicated Regional Career Specialists in South Carolina, we play a vital role in bridging the gap between education and the workforce. With a passion for student success and career readiness, the Regional Career Specialists (RCS) collaborates with school districts, educators, and... Read More →
avatar for Katherine Bradford

Katherine Bradford

Lowcountry Regional Career Specialist, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, Jasper Counties
Kathy Bradford has worked as the Lowcountry Regional Career Specialist since 2011. She serves Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper Counties which includes four school districts and various public charter schools. In addition to projects lead by the South Carolina Department of... Read More →
BB

Beth Bottini

Regional Career Specialist - Catawba
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 7
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Innovative. Relevant. Rigorous. Redefining the South Carolina Career Center
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 9
South Carolina career centers stand at a crossroads. As workforce demands accelerate in advanced manufacturing, logistics, EV technology, healthcare, and construction, career centers must evolve beyond elective providers into regional workforce engines. This session will challenge traditional thinking and provide a bold, practical blueprint for making your career center innovative, regionally...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Nikki Honeycutt

Dr. Nikki Honeycutt

CTE Director, Daniel Morgan Career and Technology Center
Dr. Nikki Honeycutt is the Director of the Daniel Morgan Technology Center in Spartanburg School District 3, SC, bringing over 29 years of experience. Dr. Nikki Honeycutt was named 2025 Administrator of the Year by the South Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education... Read More →
Innovative. Relevant. Rigorous. How to Redefine the South Carolina Career Center pptx
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 9
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Inside the New School Counseling & Career Guidance Framework: What You Need to Know for 2026 and Beyond
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Wando
South Carolina is entering an exciting new era in school counseling and career guidance—and this session gives leaders the tools, clarity, and confidence to put the state’s revised Comprehensive School Counseling and Career Guidance Framework into action. Participants will explore the Framework’s four core components—Define, Deliver, Manage, and Assess—and discover how these elements...
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Speakers
DE

Dr. Erin Clarke

South Carolina Department of Education
Erin Clarke, Ed.D., serves as Education Associate at the South Carolina Department of Education, where she is the School Counseling and Career Specialist Liaison. With 17 years of experience and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, she leads statewide initiatives to support... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Wando
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

The World & South Carolina Needs CTE
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 10
What sets a top-performing CTE program apart? Join this session to uncover the strategies behind a cutting-edge program that’s preparing students to lead in high-demand industries. In this session, you’ll gain actionable strategies and tactics that empower students with career-ready skills. Walk away with practical ideas, innovative approaches, and proven methods to elevate your own CTE...
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Speakers
avatar for Joey Hassell

Joey Hassell

731.445.8645, iCEV
After retiring with 32 years of public service in June 2025, Joey Hassell currently serves as a territory manager for iCEV where he works in Kentucky, South Carolina, and Tennessee. He also serves as an advisor for a charter school in Memphis-Shelby County Schools, Tennessee Career... Read More →
avatar for Jeremiah Cavitt

Jeremiah Cavitt

iCEV
Jeremiah Cavitt currently serves as a curriculum consultant for iCEV. Jeremiah earned a Bachelor of Music from Lambuth University and Master Of Music with the emphasis in Choral Conducting from Austin Peay State University. Also, he teaches Introduction of Music at Jackson State Community... Read More →
6 16 26 PalmettoEducationSummit pdf
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 10
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Everyone is a Mentor
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 11
Young people are surrounded by adults every day—teachers, coaches, administrators, bus drivers, parents, and community members—yet many students still struggle to find the consistent encouragement and guidance they need to thrive. Schools often think of mentoring as a formal role assigned to a small number of people, but the reality is that mentoring happens in everyday interactions. The...
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Speakers
NC

Nate Chrisman

GOODLIFE
Before Nate Chrisman ever stepped onto a national stage or built a life-changing curriculum, he was just a kid in Ohio who believed that life could be different—and better—if someone simply showed up and cared. Today, Nate is the Founder and CEO of THECLEFT, a nonprofit organization... Read More →
CF

Carl F. Martin, Jr.

Real Champions, Inc.
Dr. Carl F. Martin, Jr. is the co-founder of Real Champions Inc., a South Carolina organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable children through long-term mentoring relationships. A former member of Clemson University’s 1981 National Championship football team, Carl has spent... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 11
  Character and Resiliency in Education

10:15am EDT

Experience the Leadership Minute
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 12
Leadership Minute is, the progress made across South Carolina, and how the program supports life skills, confidence, resilience, and civic responsibility without adding instructional burden. Participants will experience a Leadership Minute live, featuring one of the program’s civics standards—Patriotism—led by a Leadership Minute Ambassador. The session highlights the program’s innovative...
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Speakers
avatar for Christina Gerken

Christina Gerken

Founder and CEO of Align Consulting, South Carolina Football Hall of Fame and Align Consulting - AB Sports Collective
With over 28 years of experience in strategic development and program implementation, Christina leads in delivering customized, results-driven solutions for businesses, non-profits, and entities across a wide range of industries. Founder of multiple companies and educational programs... Read More →
avatar for Darrin Gray

Darrin Gray

Strategic Advisor, South Carolina Football Hall of Fame and Align Consulting - AB Sports Collective
With over 30 years of executive leadership experience in communications, media, branding, sports philanthropy, and non-profit sectors. Darrin is recognized as a thought leader and speaker on Strategic Philanthropy, Fatherhood, Mentoring, and Leadership. Darrin serves professional... Read More →
avatar for David Sanford Wyatt

David Sanford Wyatt

South Carolina Football Hall Of Fame
David S. Wyatt serves as Executive Director of the South Carolina Football Hall of Fame (SCFHOF), where he leads the organization’s mission to honor the state’s football leaders while creating meaningful impact through two flagship initiatives: the Leadership Minute Program and... Read More →
Experience Leadership Minute Program pdf
Join the Leadership Minute Program pdf
Sign Up for the Leadership Minute pdf
Shaping the Next Generation pdf
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 12
  Civics

10:15am EDT

Datafication of Your Multi-Tiered System of Supports
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 14
A well-planned and implemented Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) will ensure that goals, resources, and practices are aligned and cohesive, ensuring positive student outcomes. Data turns MTSS from a framework into a force. When goals, resources, and practices line up with what your data is telling you, students grow. This session digs into how to use data at every layer of MTSS: universal...
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Speakers
WC

Wyatt Cothran

Team Lead, South Carolina Department of Education
Wyatt Cothran is Deputy CIO at the South Carolina Department of Education. His portfolio covers data flows and governance, analytics modernization, and the statewide K-12 reporting systems. He led South Carolina's Ed-Fi implementation and his current focus is the Growing Pathways... Read More →
avatar for Charlene Gleaton

Charlene Gleaton

PES Content Coordinator, South Carolina Department of Education
Charlene Gleaton has devoted twenty-eight years to public education in South Carolina and Alabama. Twenty years were invested teaching grades one through three, serving as a literacy and math interventionist, and supporting teachers as a literacy coach at the school and district levels... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 14
  Literacy

10:15am EDT

Implementing Zearn Math to Reach Impact
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 13
Independent research, including a large-scale randomized control trial, shows Zearn Math has a statistically significant impact on student math achievement — earning the program the highest rating from Evidence for ESSA. Across this evidence base one takeaway is consistent: results are strongest when students complete 3+ grade-level lessons each week. In this panel session, South Carolina...
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Speakers
JM

Jennifer Madden

Partner Success, Zearn
Jennifer Madden, a partner success manager at Zearn, brings more than 20 years of experience in education as a teacher and school administrator in South Carolina. Most recently, she served as principal of Woodmont Middle School, where she led schoolwide academic initiatives and supported... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 13
  Numeracy

10:15am EDT

Esports in SC - A Guide to Creating Standards, Building Teams, and Joining SCSE
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 8
As esports continues to emerge as a high-impact educational pathway, South Carolina is uniquely positioned to lead with a cohesive, standards-driven, and student-centered approach. This session provides a comprehensive, implementation-focused framework for schools and districts seeking to launch or expand scholastic esports programs aligned to academic, workforce, and student engagement outcomes....
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Speakers
avatar for David Griggs

David Griggs

Teacher and Head Esports Coach, Summerville High School
David is a passionate advocate for scholastic esports and brings nearly a decade of experience in education to his role as co-founder and vice chair of SCSE. Currently a high school teacher at Summerville High, David has developed and led the school's esports program since its in... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Panter

Ryan Panter

Assistant Director, Lexington School District 1
Ryan is currently the Assistant Director of Career and Technical Education for Lexington School District One in Lexington SC. He brings a unique blend of experience from both the video game business and education worlds. Ryan leads SCSE’s mission to create a thriving and inclusive... Read More →
avatar for Seth Pruitt

Seth Pruitt

Instructor of Esports Promotion & Management, Anderson Districts I & II Career and Technology Center
I have had the privilege to provide over eight years of teaching expertise in computer programming, game design, and esports promotion at the Anderson Districts I & II Career and Technology Center. I, and fellow Instructor Andrew Akins, successfully transitioned a program from Computer... Read More →
NM

Nick Matawa

USC Upstate
Nick has spent more than half a decade working in the collegiate space, where he helps students navigate the complex world of higher education. From connecting students with scholarship opportunities to guiding them through the relationship-building needed for college teams and organizations... Read More →
MH

Madalyn Hazlett

Dreher High School
Madalyn is a math teacher at Dreher High School and also the eSports coordinator for Richland One School District. She holds two master’s degrees—one in Teaching and another in Trauma-Informed Education.
Esports in SC pptx
Tuesday June 16, 2026 10:15am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 8
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

All Really Means ALL! How a Multi-District Career Center Supports Feeder High Schools with Getting All Students Career Ready
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 9
The Anderson Institute of Technology is a multi-district career center serving students from 3 school districts (Anderson 3, 4, and 5). In this session, administration will share innovative practices to help students become college and/or career ready, including non-diploma students. We will discuss the strategies (what worked and what didn’t) and how we collaborated with each of our feeder high...
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Speakers
DT

Dr. Tiffany LaFerrara-Estes

Anderson Institute of Technology
Background: Dr. Estes has over 20 years of education experience and is currently the Executive Director of the Anderson Institute of Technology. She began her teaching career in Cobb County, Georgia. She taught Special Education to middle and high school students. After several years... Read More →
HS

Haley Stollar

Anderson Institute of Technology
Haley Stollar is a dedicated Special Education professional with 10 years of experience supporting students with diverse learning needs in Anderson County. As a Transition Specialist, she focuses on preparing students to become career-ready through meaningful, hands-on work experiences... Read More →
Palmetto Education Summit AIT Presentation 6.16.26Final pptx
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 9
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

Connecting K–12 to Career Pathways: Practical Steps to Make Workforce Readiness Real (Not Just Aspirational)
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 1
Career readiness becomes real when districts give every student a clear line of sight to their future—and when leaders have real-time, trusted insights to measure progress consistently across schools. This session outlines a practical framework for building a districtwide, school‑to‑workforce data ecosystem anchored in Naviance and aligned to state expectations. Attendees will learn how...
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Speakers
EH

Erin Hawkins

Solution Strategy Director, PowerSchool
Erin Hawkins comes from a PowerSchool family. Her husband also works for PowerSchool, and her three children attend a PowerSchool Solutions School District that utilizes a wide variety of PowerSchool products. Prior to joining PowerSchool ten years ago, Erin taught high school for... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 1
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

CTE Isn’t What It Used to Be: Redefining Career Readiness Through Innovation, Industry, and Impact
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 10
For decades, Career and Technical Education (CTE) carried outdated perceptions—“vocational tracks,” limited academic rigor, and narrow post-graduation pathways. That model no longer exists. At Beaufort Jasper Academy for Career Excellence (BJACE), CTE is rigorous, industry-aligned, data-driven, and directly connected to workforce demands. Today’s CTE integrates STEM, real-world problem...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Michael Lovecchio

Dr. Michael Lovecchio

Director, Beaufort Jasper Academy for Career Excellence
Dr. Michael Lovecchio is the Director of Beaufort-Jasper Academy for Career Excellence (ACE) in Ridgeland, South Carolina, where he leads the institution’s vision for high-quality career and technical education that prepares students for both college and career success. Under his... Read More →
avatar for Carrie Chappell

Carrie Chappell

Assistant Director, Beaufort Jasper Academy for Career Excellence
Carrie Chappell serves as Assistant Director of Beaufort-Jasper Academy for Career Excellence (BJACE), a multi-district career center in South Carolina dedicated to preparing students for high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand careers. In her role, she provides strategic leadership... Read More →
CTE Isn’t What it Used to Be Presentation Materials (1) pdf
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 10
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

Original Six Foundation - From Classroom to Career: Reimagining Afterschool for Rural Students
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 6
Across rural South Carolina, many students lack access to high-quality enrichment and career exposure during the critical hours after school. Yet research shows the hours immediately following the school day are pivotal for learning, safety, and long-term development.For the past decade, the Original Six Foundation has partnered with public schools across South Carolina to deliver no-cost,...
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Speakers
AT

Angelica Tyler

Program Coordinator, Original Six Foundation
NW

Nick Washington

Program Director, Original Six Foundation
Nick Washington has been the Program Director for the Original Six Foundation since 2016. Nick received his bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Francis Marion University. With nearly two decades in the field, he has extensive nonprofit and youth development experience. He... Read More →
KG

Kara Gormely Meador

Executive Director, Original Six Foundation
Kara Gormley Meador joined the Original Six Foundation as Executive Director in July 2022 and has since led the organization through a period of significant growth and expanded impact across South Carolina. Under Kara’s leadership, the Foundation rebranded and strengthened its core... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 6
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

SC Work-Based Learning Roadmap: Essential State Updates for Career Readiness
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 7
This interactive session provides a comprehensive dive into state-level work-based learning implementation guidelines, strategies, and reporting accurate data in PowerSchool. It is designed to assist administrators, educators, school counselors and career guidance personnel with tools to align work-based learning programs with high-quality worksite experiences to strengthen student career...
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Speakers
avatar for Lisa Call

Lisa Call

Regional Career Specialist, Regional Career Specialist - Midlands
As dedicated Regional Career Specialists in South Carolina, we play a vital role in bridging the gap between education and the workforce. With a passion for student success and career readiness, the Regional Career Specialists (RCS) collaborates with school districts, educators, and... Read More →
2026 Palmetto Education Summit WBL presentation pptx
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 7
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

The Great Disagreement Game: Turn “Whatever…” into “I hear you”
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Wando
Disagreements happen in every classroom and workplace, but they don’t have to lead to negative consequences. This interactive session equips educators with practical strategies to help students navigate differing opinions with confidence and respect. Through engaging activities, role-play scenarios, and “game-style” challenges, participants will learn how to teach active listening, emotional...
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Speakers
JS

Julie Sharpe

Microburst
Julie is a soft‑skills implementation specialist who trains and coaches educators to build durable workplace‑readiness skills. She supports instructors from elementary through college levels, helping them confidently integrate EmployABILITY Soft Skills into daily instruction... Read More →
avatar for Rebecca Bazzle

Rebecca Bazzle

Microburst Learning
Rebecca Bazzle is the Chief Operating Officer of Microburst Learning, where she leads the development of EmployABILITY Soft Skills programs and customized training for organizations worldwide. She collaborates with experts across education, industry, and healthcare to create engaging... Read More →
LH

Lizzie Harris

Microburst Learning
Lizzie Harris is an instructional creative with Microburst Learning, where she helps educators bring EmployABILITY Soft Skills to life in the classroom. Since 2022, she has supported teacher trainings, sharing practical strategies for engaging learners and building the durable skills... Read More →
The Great Disagreement Game V5 Upload pptx
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Wando
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

From Trust to Fear: How Childhood and Parenting Culture Have Shifted
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 11
Something fundamental shifted in parenting culture over the past decades. What was once considered normal childhood—walking to a friend’s house, playing unsupervised, handling age-appropriate responsibilities—became labeled as “neglect.” Meanwhile, anxiety and depression in young people skyrocketed. This session explores the cultural transformation from trust-based to fear-based...
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Speakers
avatar for Andrea Keith

Andrea Keith

Executive Director, Let Grow
With experience as an elementary educator and 14 years in education technology start-ups, Andrea Keith is the Executive Director of Let Grow, a nonprofit promoting childhood independence, resilience, and well-being.  Under her leadership, Let Grow has expanded to reach close to a... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 11
  Character and Resiliency in Education

11:30am EDT

From Classroom to the Courtroom: Bringing Civics to Life with Law Related Education
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 12
Looking for engaging civics resources that go beyond the textbook?  This session highlights the South Carolina Bar's Law Related Education programs that provide teachers with free curriculum materials, competitions, and experiential learning opportunities to students.  From Mock Trial, to We the People congressional hearings, to helping you schedule field excursions to your local...
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Speakers
SB

Sarah Buckliew

Law Related Education/SC Bar
Sarah Buckliew brings over 16 years of experience in education to her work with the South Carolina Bar. Having served in public, charter, and private schools as a teacher, principal, and Head of School, she understands firsthand the realities teachers face and the incredible impact... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 12
  Civics

11:30am EDT

Turning the Page: How LETRS Is Rewriting Literacy Outcomes Across South Carolina
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 14
This session examines South Carolina's statewide LETRS implementation through a comprehensive literacy leadership lens. Through a policy overview and spotlights from districts at different stages of the LETRS journey, presenters share real data, honest reflections on challenges, and practical tools that illustrate what it takes to align leadership, assessment, professional development,...
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Speakers
avatar for Stacie Wood

Stacie Wood

LETRS State Success Manager - North Carolina, Lexia
Stacie L. Wood, M.S.Ed. is a LETRS National Learning Facilitator and Lexia Customer Success Manager of Professional Learning with over 25 years of experience in special education, literacy instruction, and educator professional development. She currently serves as an Adjunct Professor... Read More →
NB

Natalie Brubaker

Lexia
Natalie Brubaker, M.Ed., is a former educator and literacy specialist with over 20 years of experience. At Lexia Learning, she partners with leaders to implement evidence-based Science of Reading practices. Natalie leverages her classroom background to advocate for expert-led professional... Read More →
Lexia Presentation Template (1) pdf
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 14
  Literacy

11:30am EDT

Rethinking Math Intervention: Helping All Kids Catch Up and Move Forward Through Instructional Coherence
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 13
Every student falls behind in math at some point. But with the right support, all kids can catch up and succeed in grade-level math learning. This session will explore how real-world context and visual representations help students make connections to the big math ideas that structure math learning, allowing them to build deep understanding of prior concepts while learning new content....
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Speakers
avatar for Beth Sappe

Beth Sappe

Partner Success Director, Zearn
Beth Sappe, a partner success director at Zearn, has more than 22 years of experience in education. In her role, Sappe supports large school districts across the nation on  Zearn implementation, building upon her deep engagement with STEM and mathematics with the Baltimore City Public... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 13
  Numeracy

2:15pm EDT

Building Future-Readiness Early: Connecting K–12 Preparation to the Global Workforce
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 8
As technological change, AI adoption, demographic shifts, and evolving workforce needs reshape the labor market, employers report that nearly 40% of core skills are expected to change by 2030. Analytical thinking, technological literacy, resilience, and global awareness are among the fastest-growing competencies. Preparing students for this future cannot begin in college alone. As South Carolina...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Deborah Hazzard

Dr. Deborah Hazzard

Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs | Full Professor, Management Department, Darla Moore School of Business, University of South Carolina
Dr. Deb Hazzard, a native of Columbia, South Carolina (USA), has served as an Associate Dean at Darla Moore School of Business (DMSB) since her historic appointment in 2019 when she became the first African-American academic in a leadership role in the school's 100-year history. As... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Marki Jones

Dr. Marki Jones

Darla Moore School of Business, University of South Carolina
Dr. Marki Jones serves as the Director of the Center for International Business Education and Research (CIBER) and Clinical Assistant Professor of International Business at the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina. She is responsible for strategic administration... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 8
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Building Strong Partnerships Between Schools and Business
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 6
Join a panel of business leaders to learn how working with schools helps businesses build a future-ready workforce, while providing students with authentic career exposure, internships, and skill-based learning. This session will provide strategies for educators to engage local industry and for businesses to deepen their impact on education.
Speakers
avatar for Katherine Bradford

Katherine Bradford

Lowcountry Regional Career Specialist, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, Jasper Counties
Kathy Bradford has worked as the Lowcountry Regional Career Specialist since 2011. She serves Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, and Jasper Counties which includes four school districts and various public charter schools. In addition to projects lead by the South Carolina Department of... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 6
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Crafting Leaders Alongside Skills: Embedding Leadership into the Student Experience
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 9
You’re getting students certified—but are they truly workforce-ready? Across pathways, employers are telling us the same thing: students can perform the task, but struggle with communication, accountability, and working on a team. This session breaks down how to intentionally embed leadership and employability skills into your existing CTE programs—without adding one more thing—so students...
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Speakers
DL

Dr. Lee Green

Director, Floyd D. Johnson Technology Center
Dr. Lee C. Green is the Director of the Floyd D. Johnson Technology Center in York School District One in York, South Carolina. With more than 28 years of experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE), Dr. Green has demonstrated a strong commitment to preparing students for successful... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Nikki Honeycutt

Dr. Nikki Honeycutt

CTE Director, Daniel Morgan Career and Technology Center
Dr. Nikki Honeycutt is the Director of the Daniel Morgan Technology Center in Spartanburg School District 3, SC, bringing over 29 years of experience. Dr. Nikki Honeycutt was named 2025 Administrator of the Year by the South Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education... Read More →
Leader In Me Palmetto Education Summit Presentation JUN2026 pptx
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 9
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Highlights of the 2025 South Carolina Statewide Computer Science Education Plan
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 10
South Carolina Expanding Computing Education Pathways (ECEP), in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Education Office of Career Readiness, is launching a statewide effort to develop South Carolina’s first comprehensive K–12 Computer Science Education Strategic Plan. Building on the state’s landmark progress—including being the first in the nation to mandate a full-credit CS...
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Speakers
avatar for Ben Dusek

Ben Dusek

Computer Science and Digital Learning Team Lead, South Carolina Department of Education
Benjamin Dusek is a former Computer Science / Business Education teacher with eight years ofclassroom experience at the middle and high school levels. Benjamin earned his masters ofInstructional Technology from The University of North Carolina Charlotte. Before joining the SouthCarolina... Read More →
The Journey of South Carolina Computer Science pdf
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 10
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Italian Regional Stuffed Pastas – Hands-on Session
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Offsite
Date: June 16, 2026, from 2:30pm-5:00pm @ Culinary Institute of Charleston, Trident Technical College, 7000 Rivers Ave. N. Charleston, 29406. Thornley Campus, Building 920 (located off of College Rd & Rivers Ave.)  Kitchen 119 (100 hallway) Join Chef Michael Carmel as he shares some of the great stuffed pastas that represent Italy’s undiscovered regions of Emilia Romagna and Piedmonte....
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Speakers
avatar for Christal VanWickler

Christal VanWickler

Education Coordinator, SC ProStart - SC Restaurant & Lodging Foundation
Christal Van Wickler career ranges from administrative, accounting and management for about 20 years in the hospitality industry before transitioning to the education field for about 13 years. She serves at the ProStart Coordinator for the SC Restaurant and Lodging Association
MC

Michael Carmel

Culinary Institute of Charleston, Trident Technical College
Michael L. Carmel is Department Head at Trident Technical College, bringing expertise in academic leadership and program development. His background includes a focus on higher education and curriculum design.

Prior to his role at Trident Technical College, Michael served as a Professor at Roosevelt University, where they developed a bachelor program in Culinary Arts. Earlier in his career, Michael held the position of Program Director, Culinary at Kendall College, overseeing program functions... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Offsite
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Strengthening SC’s Educator Pipeline with CTE + Teacher Cadet
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 12
This session will guide district and school leaders through designing or strengthening a teacher‑recruitment pathway that begins in high school by intentionally stacking two CTE courses with two Teacher Cadet courses to form a complete, coherent four‑course sequence. Participants will explore how CTE and Teacher Cadet, often operating in parallel, can be strategically aligned to create a...
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Speakers
avatar for Heather Harmon

Heather Harmon

Pathway Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Heather Harmon is an Innovative Pathway Specialist with the Office of Career Readiness at the South Carolina Department of Education. With 19 years of classroom experience, including 15 years teaching high school English, she is dedicated to expanding high‑quality, future‑ready... Read More →
MD

Meredith Dantzler

CERRA-SC The Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention, and Advancement in South Carolina
Meredith Dantzler brings more than a decade of experience in education, with a comprehensive understanding of the educator pipeline from elementary classroom teaching to school leadership and statewide program direction. She served six years as an elementary teacher and three years... Read More →
LY

Lindsay Yearta

CERRA-SC The Center for Educator Recruitment, Retention, and Advancement in South Carolina
Lindsay has over 20 years of experience in education and brings a comprehensive understanding of the educator pipeline, from classroom teaching to state-level leadership, having served nine years as a K–12 educator, two years as an Education Associate at the South Carolina Department... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 12
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Whole Learners, Future Ready: Scaling What Works to Integrate CARE & Career Readiness in South Carolina
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 7
South Carolina’s vision is clear: Every student graduates college-ready, career-ready, or military-ready. The Palmetto Education Summit’s focus on Career Readiness and CARE (Character, Resiliency, and Student Wellness) presents a powerful opportunity — not to launch another initiative, but to strengthen and scale what is already working across our state. For more than three years, iLead —...
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Speakers
GW

Gina Watts

Growing Leaders powered by Maxwell Leadership Foundation
Strategist. Coach. Connector. Catalyst for Change. Gina Watts is a dynamic leader, speaker, and strategist whose life’s work centers on helping people and organizations unlock potential and live with purpose. With graduate degrees in Public Administration and Social Work, Gina blends... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 7
  Career Readiness

2:15pm EDT

Authentic Choice as a Foundation of Resilience and Character
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 11
Every day we make choices that shape not only our own paths but also the options available to those around us—yet in our schools and homes, we've created environments where children rarely experience authentic choice, leading to unprecedented levels of anxiety, apathy, and failure to launch. In this interactive session, Let Grow's Executive Director will explore the critical difference between...
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Speakers
avatar for Andrea Keith

Andrea Keith

Executive Director, Let Grow
With experience as an elementary educator and 14 years in education technology start-ups, Andrea Keith is the Executive Director of Let Grow, a nonprofit promoting childhood independence, resilience, and well-being.  Under her leadership, Let Grow has expanded to reach close to a... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 11
  Character and Resiliency in Education

2:15pm EDT

Late-Emerging Reading Difficulties: Bridging the Gap in Grades 4–12
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 14
By the time students reach the upper elementary and secondary levels, an assumption is made that all students are automatic and accurate with decoding. But what happens when the foundational floor drops out? For many students, reading difficulties that were once hidden emerge. This session tackles the phenomenon of Late-Emerging Reading Difficulties. We will move beyond the myth that literacy...
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Speakers
avatar for Katherine Bonasera

Katherine Bonasera

Manager of Educational Partnerships, Collaborative Classroom
Katharine Bonasera is a Manager of Educational Partnerships with Collaborative Classroom serving Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, and South Carolina. She has 19 years of teaching and leadership experience in urban school environments, serving as a classroom teacher, assistant principal... Read More →
Late Emerging Reading Difficulties Palmetto Education Summit.pptx pdf
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 14
  Literacy

2:15pm EDT

Using Zearn Math Alongside your High-Quality Curriculum
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 13
As schools plan for the upcoming school year, Zearn supports educators in using the platform alongside high-quality math curriculum to help every student access grade-level math learning. Join Zearn Academic Director Kyle Fatling to explore how Zearn strengthens instructional coherence across core instruction and intervention through a Concrete–Representational–Abstract (CRA) approach....
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Speakers
avatar for Kyle Falting

Kyle Falting

Academic Director, Zearn
Kyle Falting, the academic director at Zearn, has nearly 20 years of experience in education as a state education administrator, district leader and teacher. Falting began his career as a mathematics teacher in Lincoln Parrish, a rural district in northern Louisiana, and eventually... Read More →
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
Room 13
  Numeracy

2:15pm EDT

Certification Central: TOSA by Isograd
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Cooper
Join us for a session of Certification Central with TOSA by Isograd.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Herb Bocchino

Dr. Herb Bocchino

CTE Standards and Certifications Coordinator, South Carolina Department of Education
Dr. Herb Bocchino serves as the CTE Standards and Certifications Coordinator in the Office of Career Readiness at the South Carolina Department of Education. He holds a Master’s in Educational Administration and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction. With over 20 years of experience... Read More →
avatar for Jen Fausto

Jen Fausto

Business Development Manager, Tosa by Isograd
Developed by Isograd, Tosa is an industry-recognized digital skills certification solution that offers a unique, proficiency-based, and adaptive testing approach, unlike traditional pass/fail exams. Tosa certifies digital skills across desktop and graphic design applications, digital... Read More →
TOSA Certification Central pptx
Tuesday June 16, 2026 2:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Cooper
  Career Readiness
 
Wednesday, June 17
 

10:15am EDT

Bridging the Gap: A Collaborative Model for Purposeful Dual Enrollment
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 8
This session explores a collaborative advising model between high school counselors and university admissions advisors to transform dual enrollment from credit accumulation into a purposeful pathway design. Presenters will share their structured sophomore advising process that integrates GPA analysis, test scores, high school graduation requirements, and major-specific sequencing to map...
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Speakers
JS

Jane Sargeant

Aiken County Public Schools/Aiken Scholars Academy
Jane E. Sargeant, M.A., M.Ed., NBCT, is a seasoned educational leader with over 30 years of experience as a school counselor, educator, and program administrator. She currently serves as Lead Counselor at Aiken Scholars Academy, a specialized early college high school in partnership... Read More →
AH

Andrew Hendrix

University of South Carolina Aiken
Andrew Hendrix serves as Director of External Recruitment at the University of South Carolina Aiken, where he leads initiatives focused on international recruitment, admissions strategy, and dual enrollment partnerships. With more than two decades of experience in higher education... Read More →
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 8
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Connecting Students with Communities: Telepresence Amusement Parks
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 10
This session introduces the Telepresence Amusement Park project, in which student teams design model amusement park rides equipped with wireless cameras that stream to head-mounted displays. The result transforms a third-person toy into a first-person ride experience for residents of retirement communities, including those with limited mobility. Participants will learn how this project builds...
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Speakers
avatar for Dr. Martin Cwiakala

Dr. Martin Cwiakala

Director of Innovation, Community STEAM Collaborative
Martin Cwiakala was an engineering educator at the Center for Advanced Technical Studies in Lexington-Richland School District Five in South Carolina, where he taught aerospace engineering and Project Lead The Way courses. With more than two decades of experience in engineering education... Read More →
Connecting Students with Communities Telepresence Amusement Parks pdf
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 10
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Helping Young Children Build Skills for the Future: Connecting SC Early Learning Standards, Play, and Career Readiness
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 9
South Carolina’s future workforce begins in its early childhood classrooms. This session brings together the SC Early Learning Standards, play-based instructional practices, and career readiness competencies to show how foundational learning in early childhood directly supports the future economic prosperity of South Carolina. Participants will explore how intentional play, early literacy and...
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Speakers
TG

Tammy Graham

South Carolina Department of Education
Dr. Tammy Graham is a Team Lead for Instructional Supports: Early Learning for South Carolina Department of Education. Tammy has been in education for 29 years and has also taught at the college level. Tammy has served as an assistant principal, principal, and Director of Federal... Read More →
JS

Jennifer Stock

Early Learning Specialist, South Carolina Department of Education
Jennifer Stock is an early childhood educator with two decades of experience supporting young learners through relationship‑based, student‑centered instruction. She has served in both early childhood and elementary settings, designing engaging play‑based learning and partnering... Read More →
Palmetto Education Summit Career Readiness (1) pptx
Palmetto Ed Summit Career Readiness Handout docx
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 9
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Igniting Career Curiosity: Creative and Immersive Student Experiences
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 12
This session focuses on moving career exploration beyond awareness and into meaningful, real-world connection. Through creative, immersive strategies like field experiences, industry tours, and hands-on learning, students can truly see themselves in future career pathways. Grounded in experiential learning, these approaches ignite curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to opportunities...
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Speakers
avatar for Sara Neil-Spencer

Sara Neil-Spencer

Regional Workforce Advisor, SC Department of Employment and Workforce
Sara Neil-Spencer is the Regional Workforce Advisor for Cherokee, Spartanburg and Union counties. She has served in her current role with the Department of Employment and Workforce (DEW) since November 2023. As a Regional Workforce Advisor, Sara connects students, educators, and administrators... Read More →
SM

Stacy McKinney

regional workforce advisor, SC Department of Employment and Workforce
Stacey McKinney is a Regional Workforce Advisor who specializes in connecting students, parents, and educators to business and industry. As a champion for workforce development, Stacey is passionate about helping individuals navigate the career planning process and preparing them... Read More →
avatar for Debbie Jones

Debbie Jones

Pee Dee RWA, SC Department of Employment and Workforce
Debbie Jones currently serves as the Pee Dee Regional Workforce Advisor for the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, where she utilizes her extensive statewide experience to strengthen partnerships between education and workforce development partners throughout the... Read More →
PAL BUS FINAL Creative and Immersive Student Experiences pdf
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 12
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

Let Us Lead! The power of leadership development and ownership in growing career-ready students.
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 6
Come hear the voice of South Carolina's young leaders! In this unique session, Growing Leaders thought-leaders will present alongside select Maxwell Leadership Student Ambassadors. These students are unique to South Carolina and have been working together to create impact in their communities. Together, we will help them discuss how leadership development is preparing them for their careers, what...
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Speakers
PE

Patrick Erwin

Growing Leaders: Powered by Maxwell Leadership
Patrick M. Erwin is an author, educator, and the Curriculum Director at Maxwell Leadership Foundation, where he blends his passion for education and leadership development. Previously, he spent 17 years as High School Band Director at Hillgrove High School in Cobb County, GA. Patrick... Read More →
AM

Andrew McPeak

Growing Leaders: Powered by Maxwell Leadership
Andrew McPeak is an author, researcher, and expert on emerging generations. He has over a decade of experience working with young adults, from public schools to corporate boardrooms. His deep understanding of the challenges facing today’s young leaders enables him to equip adults... Read More →
MLSA Package pdf
Let Us Lead pdf
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 6
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

The Future of The Hybrid/Battery Electric Vehicle in South Carolina
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 7
South Carolina has attracted several automobile manufacturers that are placing emphasis on the Hybrid/Battery Electric Vehicle. These industries are investing billions of dollars in building an infrastructure that will have an everlasting impact on our economy. Their hope is that the educational system in South Carolina can provide a highly skilled workforce.

Speakers
avatar for John Romano

John Romano

Executive Director, South Carolina Transportation and Education Business Alliance
John Romano is a retired automotive technology teacher that provides educational and technical assistance to teachers and school districts throughout the state. He is also State Manager for the ASE Education Foundation and Executive Director for the South Carolina Transportation and... Read More →
BM

B.T. Martin

Education Associate, South Carolina Department of Education, Office of Career Readiness
B. T. Martin is an Education Associate in the Office of Career Readiness. He is responsible for the Advanced Manufacturing Cluster (Engineering), Energy & Natural Resources (Clean Energy), and Supply Chain & Transportation, He supports Automotive Collision, Automotive Technology Hybrid/Battery... Read More →
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 7
  Career Readiness

10:15am EDT

The Benefits of a Low-Tech Classroom
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 11
What School Leaders Need to Know About Attention, Learning, and Student Well-Being   Screen use is now part of classrooms, but not all screen use supports learning in the most productive way. In this science-based session, educators will explore the difference between entertainment and educational screen time and how screen overuse impacts attention, motivation, social connection, and...
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Speakers
MH

Melanie Hempe

ScreenStrong
When her oldest son withdrew from college due to a video game addiction, Melanie Hempe used her nursing degree from Emory University to create a better, science-backed screen solution for her three younger children. The success of these solutions compelled Melanie to found ScreenStrong... Read More →
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 11
  Character and Resiliency in Education

10:15am EDT

First and Foremost, Find the Vowels: Unlocking the Six Syllable Types
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 14
"First and foremost, always and forever — find the vowels." It sounds simple, but it is one of the most powerful instructional mantras a literacy teacher can carry into the classroom. The vast majority of English words follow predictable phonics patterns — and the six syllable types are the key to unlocking them. Every syllable type, every decoding decision, every spelling pattern comes back...
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Speakers
avatar for Stacie Wood

Stacie Wood

LETRS State Success Manager - North Carolina, Lexia
Stacie L. Wood, M.S.Ed. is a LETRS National Learning Facilitator and Lexia Customer Success Manager of Professional Learning with over 25 years of experience in special education, literacy instruction, and educator professional development. She currently serves as an Adjunct Professor... Read More →
NB

Natalie Brubaker

Lexia
Natalie Brubaker, M.Ed., is a former educator and literacy specialist with over 20 years of experience. At Lexia Learning, she partners with leaders to implement evidence-based Science of Reading practices. Natalie leverages her classroom background to advocate for expert-led professional... Read More →
Find the Vowels Presentation.pptx pdf
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 14
  Literacy

10:15am EDT

Stop Guessing-Start Progressing: Harnessing the Power of Learning Progressions for Numeracy Success
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 13
Too often, mathematics instruction relies on isolated skills and assumptions about what students know, leading to gaps in understanding and inconsistent progress. This session will explore how learning progressions provide a clear, research-based roadmap for developing numeracy by making student thinking visible and connecting concepts across grade levels. Participants will deepen their...
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Speakers
avatar for Nijjall Bigger

Nijjall Bigger

District Elementary Math Specialist, Rock Hill School District (York 3)
Dr. Nijjall Bigger is a dedicated District Elementary Math Specialist in Rock Hill Schools with over 23 years of experience in education. Throughout her career, she has been committed to supporting teachers in developing effective mathematics instruction and fostering strong foundational... Read More →
Learning Progessions PES (1) pdf
Wednesday June 17, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am EDT
Room 13
  Numeracy

11:30am EDT

ASE Program Accreditation and Teacher Certification
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 7
This session will provide information on how to acquire ASE Program Accreditation through the ASE Education Foundation using the ASE Accreditation Gap Analysis. The session will also cover the requirements for Automotive, Collison, Medium/Heavy Duty Truck, and EV/HV Program standards, tools, equipment, and tasks. We will go over the ASE accreditation checklist and timelines.Please bring your...
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Speakers
avatar for John Romano

John Romano

Executive Director, South Carolina Transportation and Education Business Alliance
John Romano is a retired automotive technology teacher that provides educational and technical assistance to teachers and school districts throughout the state. He is also State Manager for the ASE Education Foundation and Executive Director for the South Carolina Transportation and... Read More →
BM

B.T. Martin

Education Associate, South Carolina Department of Education, Office of Career Readiness
B. T. Martin is an Education Associate in the Office of Career Readiness. He is responsible for the Advanced Manufacturing Cluster (Engineering), Energy & Natural Resources (Clean Energy), and Supply Chain & Transportation, He supports Automotive Collision, Automotive Technology Hybrid/Battery... Read More →
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 7
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

Beyond Tracking to Transformation: Using Palmetto Pathways to Drive Meaningful IGP Conversations in South Carolina
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 6
South Carolina has built a strong foundation for tracking student progress through Palmetto Pathways. Now, the introduction of the Individual Graduation Plan (IGP) tool represents a significant step forward, shifting the work from monitoring progress to actively guiding students’ post-secondary planning. This session will begin with an overview of recent updates to Palmetto Pathways,...
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Speakers
DE

Dr. Erin Clarke

South Carolina Department of Education
Erin Clarke, Ed.D., serves as Education Associate at the South Carolina Department of Education, where she is the School Counseling and Career Specialist Liaison. With 17 years of experience and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, she leads statewide initiatives to support... Read More →
TS

Traci Shigley

Panorama Education
Traci is a results‑driven Professional Learning Director who empowers educators to elevate student achievement and well‑being through strategic coaching and high‑quality professional development. She brings proven expertise in program management, professional learning systems... Read More →
PalmettoEducatorSummitJune2026 Pathways pptx
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 6
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

From Opportunity to Employment: CTE and Adult Education Transforming South Carolina's Workforce
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 9
In an era of rapid industrial growth and shifting economic demands, South Carolina’s prosperity depends on a pipeline between education and the economy. This session explores the powerful synergy between Career and Technology Education (CTE) and Adult Education as the dual engines driving the state’s 21st-century workforce. Led by veteran educational leaders Dr. Alan E. Gray and Dr. Vickie C....
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Speakers
DA

Dr. Alan Gray

Edgefield County School District
Dr. Alan E. Gray serves as the Director of the Strom Thurmond Career and Technology Center, bringing over 40 years of educational excellence to the 2026 SC Palmetto Education Summit. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Gray holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from West Virginia... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Vickie C. Butler

Dr. Vickie C. Butler

Director of Adult Education, Edgefield County School District
Dr. Vickie C. Butler serves as the Director of Adult Education and Family Literacy for the Edgefield County School District, bringing over 30 years of experience as an educator, administrator, and counselor to the 2026 SC Palmetto Education Summit. An Edgefield County native, Dr... Read More →
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 9
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

From Passion to Profession: Building Creative Career Pathways
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 8
The WHY: Creative Career Studio was developed in response to a clear need: young creatives often lack access to meaningful guidance and resources that illuminate pathways to creative college majors and careers. This session explores how we are addressing that gap by helping students see the full range of possibilities for building sustainable creative careers that align personal passion with...
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Speakers
avatar for Maria Earl, M. Ed.

Maria Earl, M. Ed.

Arts Integration Specialist/K12 Arts Learning Coordinator, South Carolina Arts Commission
Maria is the Instructional Specialist and K–12 Arts Education Coordinator for the South Carolina Arts Commission, leading work in curriculum and instruction across the state. She collaborates with ArtsGrowSC partners to strengthen arts-based teaching and student engagement through... Read More →
AR

Abigail Rawl

South Carolina Arts Commission
Abby serves as the Program Manager for Creative Careers Studio at the South Carolina Arts Commission. From its inception, Abby has built out the Creative Career Studio, making the website a reality and establishing the branding and program design. Abby was able to identify a need... Read More →
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 8
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

The Interview Advantage: Turning Practice into Opportunity with Business Partners
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 10
Preparing students for the workforce requires authentic experiences that parallel real hiring processes. This session will present South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind’s student participation in structured mock interviews with local business partners to build career readiness skills. Information gained from the Advisory Board meetings directed and focused our work with student...
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Speakers
DS

Dee Stark

Director of CTE, South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind
Dee Stark is a strategic, equity-driven leader in education and workforce development with more than 25 years of experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE). She currently serves as Director of Career and Technical Education at the South Carolina School for the Deaf and the... Read More →
JR

Jessica Rider

South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind
Jessica Rider serves as a School Counselor at the South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind (SCSDB), where she is dedicated to supporting the academic, social, and emotional growth of all students. She brings six years of experience as a school counselor across multiple districts... Read More →
Mock Interview Planning Checklist and Resource Guide for Presenation docx
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 10
  Career Readiness

11:30am EDT

Race to SC Ready: Integrating Literacy Routines into Science Instruction
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 14
Preparing students for SC READY requires more than content knowledge. It requires strong literacy skills across all subject areas. This interactive session showcases our “Race to SC READY” approach that integrated literacy routines into science instruction to build student readiness. Participants will experience engaging strategies used in the classroom, including reading, writing, and student...
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Speakers
TH

Teresa Harris

Darlington County School District
Teresa Harris is a 4th grade science teacher with 20 years in education and 12 years of experience teaching elementary science. She holds a master’s degree in science education and loves helping students explore and understand the world around them. Teresa is passionate about hands-on... Read More →
avatar for Amanda Barnett

Amanda Barnett

i-LEADR, Inc.
Amanda is a lead consultant for i-LEADR, Inc.  She has been an elementary and middle school general education teacher, an elementary and high school special education teacher, a district-wide intervention specialist for K-12 and an expert data-analysis facilitator for Title 1 schools... Read More →
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 14
  Literacy

11:30am EDT

From Plucking to Processing: The Progression Toward Problem Solving
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 13
Many students approach word problems through “number plucking,” extracting numerals without understanding context. This session highlights a progression that moves students toward deep comprehension and authentic problem solving, with a focus on how intentional teacher questioning supports meaning-making and shifts instruction from answer-getting to sense-making. Participants will explore a...
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Speakers
AZ

Ashley Zegilla

District Elementary Math Specialist, Rock Hill School District (York 3)
Ashley Zegilla serves as a District Elementary Math Specialist in Rock Hill Schools, where she supports the design and implementation of high-quality mathematics instruction across elementary campuses, with a particular focus on Title I schools. In her role, she partners with teachers... Read More →
From Plucking to Processing The Progression Toward Problem Solving pptx
Wednesday June 17, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm EDT
Room 13
  Numeracy
 

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