Miley Parker
Student
Who’s Going to Fill Their Shoes?
This presentation is a personal and reflective talk about growing up in education—and ultimately choosing it. As the daughter of a school administrator, I’ve spent my life in school hallways, classrooms, and offices, watching leadership up close since I was four years old. For a long time, I was certain education was not my path. That changed when I was given the opportunity to assist my mom at a KASA event in the summer of 2023. The powerful women leaders I met there poured into me, challenged my thinking, and sparked a passion for education I didn’t know I had. What truly sealed the deal was working in the Summer 2025 program at BCES under the leadership of Mrs. Haley Overstreet, where I saw firsthand the impact educators have on students every single day. This talk honors the women who lead, teach, and serve with heart and purpose—my mother, her colleagues, and my own teachers—and it reflects on the responsibility of the next generation. Their shoes are big, but the calling is clear.
BIO:
Miley is a senior at Ballard Memorial High School whose passion for service and leadership inspired her calling to become a teacher. That calling was solidified in the summer of 2025 while teaching in the 21st Century Program at BCMES, confirming that education is where she belongs. An active leader in FFA, 4-H, BETA, HOSA, Pep Club, and Student Council, Miley is committed to creating a future classroom where every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to reach their full potential.
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Andrea Davis Pinkney
Author
Bio
Andrea Davis Pinkney is a dynamic and influential literary leader celebrated as a New York Times bestselling author, editor, and publishing executive whose career spans more than three decades. The award-winning writer of nearly 50 books, she has been recognized among “The 25 Most Influential People in Our Children’s Lives” and “The 25 Most Influential Black Women in Business” for her transformative impact on children’s literature and culture. An inductee of the New York State Writers Hall of Fame and a recipient of honors including the Regina Medal, the ALA Children’s Literature Lecture Award, and multiple Coretta Scott King distinctions, her acclaimed works include Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra, Martin Rising, The Red Pencil, and And She Was Loved: Toni Morrison’s Life in Stories. Currently Vice President and Executive Editor at Scholastic, she has held leadership roles with Disney, Houghton Mifflin, Simon & Schuster, and others, shaping landmark projects such as Disney’s Jump at the Sun imprint and The Cheetah Girls series. A journalist and Syracuse University alumna, Pinkney is also an opera librettist, media commentator, and sought-after speaker who partners with organizations nationwide to champion culturally resonant storytelling and literacy for young people.
Second General Session
Life & Art; Let It Shine: Your Light Tells the Story
Women have always been the powerbrokers of change. Our histories and triumphs tell this story. Come hear from an award winning author, whose work is a deep commitment to improving the quality of children’s and women’s lives by increasing the breadth of culturally relevant stories in literature and art.
Rhonda Caldwell, Ed.D.
Chief Executive Officer, KY Association of School Administrators
Closing General Session
Embracing the GOAT: Celebrating Excellence and Achievements
Dana Schon, Ed.D.
Director of Professional Learning, School Administrators of Iowa
Session Sponsored by 
Bio
Dr. Dana Schon serves as the professional learning director for School Administrators of Iowa. She coordinates, plans, and delivers learning opportunities to support Iowa's superintendents, principals, and central office leaders in having impactful leadership. Through this role she has studied, developed, and promoted the concept of a quality leadership-life fit. Additionally, Dana consults with administrative and teacher teams around topics focused on building capacity and cohesiveness. She also supports superintendents and their boards in strategic planning and evaluation.
Dana holds a BA from Buena Vista University, a doctoral degree in educational leadership from Drake University, and two master’s degrees (Wayne State College and Drake University). A former teacher, coach, and central office administrator, she is a lifelong learner who enjoys running and spending time with her husband and three adult children.
Moment of Inspiration
Is Your Energy Worth Catching?
Let's be honest—some days your energy is fire, and other days... you're running on caffeine and sheer willpower. In this lively, practical session, discover how to manage your energy (not just your calendar), protect what fuels you, and bring your best self to all you do! Your energy isn't just felt—it's followed.