Join KASA's general counsel for an important session on state and federal law changes and other issues that impact Kentucky schools and the administrators who lead them.

Come join Andrew in this early morning session to Master Your Mornings. What are the routines, structures, and habits you can put into place to jumpstart your day? Want to wake up earlier? Want to be more focused on your personal & professional life? Want to get that morning workout in? In this proactive, self-care session, Andrew dives into the following:

• Mastering the first 60-75 minutes of each day
• Making time to do the things you want to do
• Build a shut-down evening routine
• SAVERS: how to start your day by using SAVERS
• Books, distractions, zoning in, and more

It is challenging to lead if you are not filling your cup first. Make the important thing the important thing and get it done daily, and early. Keep Surviving & Thriving!

We don’t have an alternative education problem—we have a design problem. Too often, students are placed into systems that were never built with them in mind. This session explores how to move beyond placement-driven practices and create flexible, student-centered programs grounded in connection, accountability, and purpose. Walk away with actionable strategies to redesign your program for stronger student outcomes.

Step into a playful, yet impactful exploration of innovative AI tools designed to spark creativity, boost productivity, and add a touch of fun to your leadership bag of tricks. Tailored for school leaders and district leaders, this session blends discovery with discussions as we drive into tools that are as practical as they are quirky. From solving real-world challenges to uncovering whimsical possibilities, you'll leave with fresh ideas ti implement in your district and maybe even a few tools you never knew you needed. Whether you're looking for serious solutions or just a bit of fun, this session is your recess for inspiration and discovery.

This session shares how one high school built a simple, accountable intervention system that teachers have bought into and actually use. Participants will learn how growth data identifies students, how progress is checked regularly, and how teams make adjustments when interventions aren't working. The session highlights improved state test results, individual student success stories, and the daily work of teachers whose shared commitment and follow-through make the system successful.

Reading, Math, Behavior, Oh My! This session features educators from Robert B Turner Elementary in Anderson County, a blue school in the top 9% of KY elementary schools, who built a robust MTSS system from the ground up. Participants will leave with practical suggestions for managing, implementing and maintaining a system of excellence that is data driven and child focused in the three areas of reading, math and behavior. Free resources will be provided.

This interactive session will provide K–5 educational leaders with a practical and scalable framework for expanding literacy beyond the traditional reading block and creating a school-wide culture where reading happens throughout the entire day. Participants will explore the power of the 20/20/20 approach: 20 minutes of purposeful reading during the literacy block, 20 minutes embedded across content areas such as science, social studies, and math, and 20 minutes of reading at home. Grounded in research on reading volume, knowledge-building, and literacy development, educators will examine how intentional access to authentic, engaging texts can accelerate reading achievement and strengthen student outcomes. Participants will leave with actionable strategies and leadership tools to build systems that support reading across classrooms, content areas, and home environments—creating the conditions for students to develop the habits, skills, and confidence of lifelong readers.

Bring the challenging questions you and your team are facing. In this collaborative session, we will work together to identify effective strategies for addressing complex situations involving parents and staff. Drawing on the experience of Teresa Combs and fellow directors, participants will gain practical insights and guidance from leaders who have navigated similar challenges.

A summary of the most impactful education bills from the 2026 Kentucky General Assembly and a forecast of trends impacting public education as we prepare for the 2027 General Assembly.

Conquering Confrontation gives school leaders a practical, high impact framework for handling tough conversations with confidence and precision. Grounded in self awareness, emotional regulation, active listening, and intentional planning. This fast paced session helps participants de-escalate conflict, build trust, and move people toward clear solutions. Leaders will leave with actionable tools and a ready to use conversation planner for their next high-stakes interaction.

Want to have better, stronger relationships with your stakeholders? Tired of getting/feeling “beat-up?” Want to improve your public speaking and communication skills? Have people coming at you way too hard and unsure how to best handle it? Need some effective strategies? Feel like you are being too reactive instead of more proactive in your relationships? In this energy-filled workshop, Andrew will lead you through a variety of strategies, techniques, tips, and hacks that will help improve your overall communication and interactions with your stakeholders: staff, students, and parents. A few examples include difficult one-on-one conversations, body language, the ladder of active listening, how to own the large assembly setting, E + R = O, and your school and office energy, successful vs. significant, and more. The goal of this workshop is to become more confident, comfortable, and prepared to handle the many complex and challenging social situations that are rapidly coming at school leaders in today’s world.

In an era when complex challenges and divisive topics often dominate the conversation, leaders must find ways to bring their communities together - especially when stakes and emotions run high. In this interactive and practical session, Dr. Jill Siler - former superintendent and author of Thrive Through the Five - shares a framework for building trust, fostering open dialogue, and navigating difficult conversations with clarity and respect. Participants will explore how to design meaningful engagement experiences, communicate facts and context transparently, frame discussions in ways that invite collaboration, and keep the focus on what matters most: the success and well-being of students. You'll leave with strategies to facilitate productive conversations, acknowledge differing perspectives, and guide your community toward shared solutions - even when the topic is challenging and the room is divided.

Is your school truly safer because of the procedures and practices you have in place? This practical, results-focused training is designed for school administrators who want to move beyond compliance and ensure their safety efforts are making a real impact. Participants will examine current protocols, identify gaps between practice and effectiveness, and explore strategies to strengthen prevention, response, and recovery efforts. The session emphasizes actionable steps and real-world application so that every safety measure in your school contributes to better outcomes for students and staff.

Human trafficking is not a distant issue-it's happening in our communities, and our schools are on the front lines. This powerful session equips school administrators with the knowledge and tools to recognize, prevent, and respond to human trafficking affecting students. Participants will explore how traffickers target vulnerable youth, the warning signs that often go unnoticed, and the critical role schools play in early identification and intervention. Learn how to build staff awareness, strengthen reporting protocols, and collaborate effectively with law enforcement and community partners.

Learn the four essential steps to reduce chronic stress, prevent burnout, and balance the demands of life and work. By addressing stress at its root, you can live each day from a place of calm and confidence—more easily than you might think!

This interactive session will explore the power of thoughtfully built classroom and in-home libraries to strengthen literacy, increase student engagement, and support academic growth. Research continues to demonstrate that access to high-quality books and independent reading opportunities plays a critical role in developing strong readers and building the knowledge students need for long-term academic success. Participants will examine how libraries that include a broad range of experiences, perspectives, topics, and voices can help students expand background knowledge, deepen understanding, and make meaningful connections to the world around them. Through research, practical examples, and actionable strategies, educators will learn how to curate book collections that foster curiosity, strengthen knowledge-building, increase reading motivation, and create opportunities for students to explore new ideas and experiences through reading. Participants will leave with tools and resources (actual books) to build engaging literacy environments that support stronger readers, richer learning experiences, and the development of confident, capable, and lifelong learners.

Learn the 4 key elements of a healthy foundation: de-stress, eat, move, and sleep your way to a healthier, happier you. Learn simple, practical ways to nourish your mind and body—without the overwhelm.

Learn how the Kentucky Purple Star Program helps schools strengthen resilience and support for military-connected students. This session will review national and state evaluation data, explain the Purple Star Award application process, and highlight the program’s four core components. Participants will discover how easily the program can be implemented, how schools can adapt it to local needs, and evidence-based strategies for promoting student resilience. Attendees will also learn about the free resources available to Purple Star Schools, including guides, toolkits, educational materials, prescription drug lock boxes, and more.

Join us for an insightful session on the essential steps and considerations for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into district policy. We will explore how to effectively introduce AI in educational setting, focusing on developing student and staff handbooks, acceptable-use policies, and obtaining parent consent. Our discussion will include setting grade-band expectations for when and how AI should be introduced or discussed in the classroom. We will address critical questions such as: When is it appropriate to rely on AI for cognitive tasks, and when should individuals retain the learning experience for themselves. Additionally, we will provide a comprehensive "Before You Buy" AI software checklist to guide decision-making prior to purchasing AI tools. Key aspects to consider will include data storage practices and the importance of reviewing software updates in a rapidly evolving AI landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for navigating the integrations of AI in your district!

Participants will collaborate to explore MTSS system design, including how data review, Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports, enrichment, and staffing align within an intervention-focused master schedule. Attendees will examine how AI-supported tools and high-quality instructional resources (HQIR) strengthen MTSS decision-making and instructional planning. Through shared reflection, leaders will identify practical, replicable strategies to build equitable, sustainable MTSS systems.

As Kentucky expands access to high-quality prekindergarten, leaders are looking for practical, cost-effective ways to strengthen school readiness and build the foundation for later reading success. One of the most powerful places to start is also one of the most accessible: children’s oral language. In this interactive session, participants will explore how big conversations with little learners help build vocabulary, comprehension, background knowledge, and confidence as young children prepare to become readers. Leaders will examine practical classroom “look-fors” connected to rich read-aloud, responsive teacher-child interactions, intentional questioning, and language-building routines that can be used throughout the Pre-K day. Participants will also explore ways to extend oral language beyond the classroom through family engagement, home reading routines, and community-connected activities that support school readiness. The session will include hands-on examples, practical takeaways, and partner insights from districts using Scholastic early learning resources to support children, teachers, and families

Special Education and Section 504 law encompass hundreds of federal and state regulations that can be difficult to navigate. Come prepared with your most pressing questions about implementing Special Education and Section 504 services for public school students. Engage directly with an experienced attorney in this area of law and gain practical insights you can apply immediately.

Every district has a story to tell. The question is: who do you want telling it? This session provides the firsthand perspective of a new superintendent leading a district through financial crisis, organizational instability, and community uncertainty while intentionally rebuilding trust, culture, and fiscal health. Participants will explore practical strategies for shaping public perception through transparent communication, intentional climate and culture leadership, and proactive community engagement. A major focus will be on leveraging social media, particularly Facebook, as a leadership tool to celebrate successes, communicate difficult realities, and reclaim the district narrative before others define it for you. This session is designed for leaders seeking actionable ideas for strengthening trust, managing community relations, and using storytelling as a strategic leadership practice.

Sextortion is a rapidly growing threat impacting students—and school leaders must be prepared to respond. This session equips administrators with the knowledge to recognize warning signs, understand how sextortion occurs, and take immediate, appropriate action. Participants will examine real-world scenarios, legal considerations, and the emotional impact on students and families. Learn how to strengthen reporting protocols, support victims, and partner effectively with law enforcement and digital safety experts. This session also highlights prevention strategies, including staff awareness and student education. Walk away with practical tools to respond with confidence and lead proactive efforts that protect students in an increasingly digital world.

Part 1 explores the research and warning patterns behind grooming and its connection to trauma, student mental health, and school safety. Grooming begins with trust, access, manipulation, and secrecy. This session examines child sexual abuse as one of the most damaging Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and shows why grooming is directly tied to school safety, student mental health, and long-term harm. Participants will explore how these patterns develop, how they are often missed, and why earlier recognition is essential to student safety and well-being. Part 2 provides practical guidance from law enforcement and mental health professionals, walking administrators step-by-step through how to recognize, document, and respond to grooming concerns with structured, defensible processes aligned with HB4. Awareness is not enough—schools need a plan. In the second installment, experts in law enforcement and mental health will walk attendees step by step through how to respond to grooming cases. Participants will leave with concrete, actionable, and defensible plans, hear the latest research, and learn next steps aligned with the language and intent of HB4. This session is built to help schools move from uncertainty and questions to confident action.

Public debates about generative technology in education often focus on risks associated with academic integrity or data security. But educator ethics asks deeper questions—about purpose, responsibility, and the profession’s duty to society when efficiency-enhancing technologies threaten to displace professional judgment. This session explores the ethical dimensions of generative technology and the potential consequences of its uncritical embrace by educators.

In ADA states like Kentucky, even small attendance gaps can add up to significant lost funding over time. The major difference for districts with significant reductions in chronic absenteeism is often simpler than you think. It comes down to timing. “Early” intervention goes beyond catching absenteeism before it escalates. It means:

• Identifying risk in the first 60 days of the school year

• Reaching families at the first sign of absence

• Uncovering hidden trends by the hour, block, or class, which traditional tracking methods can miss

• Flagging students who are quietly disengaging in 6th grade, years before they drop out of high school Districts that struggle to recover funding are often reacting too late in at least one of these areas.

In this session, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to spot risk earlier, engage families proactively, and turn student attendance data into timely action that supports student success and reclaims lost ADA funding.

Join fellow administrators for an engaging, interactive session focused on the transformational power of the Capturing Kids’ Hearts process. Building a remarkable culture isn’t just about theory, it's about the intentional actions of leaders. In this workshop, you will hear from experienced leaders who’ve seen dramatic changes in their schools and districts. You will leave with a refreshed commitment to your vision and actionable tools to create and maintain a relationship driven culture.

Learn how student-led initiatives like the Student Education Advisory Council amplify student voices to transform school culture. This session equips administrators and educators with strategies to engage students in collaborative forums, strengthen relationships, and promote positive climate. Discover systems that empower students as partners in decision-making for lasting change district-wide.

This session provides school and district leaders with a practical overview of Title IX and best practices for fostering safe, equitable learning environments. Participants will explore roles and responsibilities, reporting and response protocols, including how to appropriately react and respond to allegations, and strategies for addressing concerns with professionalism, consistency, and care. Emphasis is placed on prevention, compliance, and building trust with students, staff, and families.

This hands-on session moves beyond theory and into immediate application. Participants will explore AI tools they can begin using right away. Using Examples relevant to their own work, attendees will learn how to transform data into interactive webpages, create focused research notebooks with NotebooksLM, and even build a basic bot or agent, such as a contract review assistant or a school crisis scenario tool for response practice. This session is designed to empower leaders with practical skills, confidence, and personalized tools that enhance decision-making and day-to-day leadership work.

Violations of disciplinary protections for students with disabling conditions are not just violations of the students’ rights to a free appropriate public education. Courts may determine that such violations constitute discrimination under federal and state disability laws, which may result in monetary damages against the district and, in serious cases, against individual administrators. These violations can also result in EPSB actions against administrator and teaching certificates. Come and learn rules you must follow to protect the civil rights of students and to protect yourself from liability for such violations.

Long before terms like vibrancy and local accountability became common, Robert J. Marzano’s research emphasized designing systems that shape the learner experience—not just measure outcomes. This session builds on that foundation and challenges participants to rethink how learning, assessment, and accountability work together as a coherent system. Through the lens of the learner experience, participants will explore how to align what students are expected to know, do, and demonstrate with the systems designed to support them. Using real-world examples, this session highlights how Fleming County Schools is moving away from isolated initiatives and compliance-driven practices toward intentional systems that strengthen clarity, coherence, depth of learning, and the quality of evidence across classrooms. Participants will learn about Fleming County’s Five Areas of Focus and see vibrant learning, assessment, and accountability in action. Come ready to capture ideas you can put into practice—attendees will leave with practical strategies and clear next steps to help their school or district move from reporting results to creating the conditions that produce them.

What if the culture of your school is shaped less by your strategic plan and more by your daily actions? In this interactive session, Dr. Brian Lile explores how leaders build culture through the moments that matter most. Using the Five Practices of Exemplary Leadership, participants will reflect on their leadership habits, examine real-world scenarios, and leave with practical strategies to strengthen trust, inspire commitment, and positively influence school culture—starting on Day 1.

Grooming and sexual misconduct are critical risks that demand vigilant, informed leadership. This session equips school administrators with a clear understanding of relevant laws, policies, and reporting obligations that govern prevention and response. Participants will learn how grooming behaviors develop, the warning signs often missed, and how to distinguish appropriate from inappropriate adult-student interactions. The session also addresses boundaries, supervision practices, and staff conduct expectations. Walk away with practical strategies to strengthen prevention, improve reporting and documentation, and build a culture of accountability—ensuring schools remain safe, professional environments for every student.

Many educators plan for retirement by simply relying on their Teacher Retirement System benefit and do not realize that there is more they can and should do to prepare. It is critical for educators to understand the rules dictating their pension and how it interacts with Social Security and supplemental retirement plans, such as 457(b), 401(k), and 403(b) plans. Understanding these items provides people with a foundation of financial wellness that can help them plan and take the necessary steps to be financially secure.