Early Planning for a Successful Retirement: May 2025
2025-05-08 09:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: May 8, 2025
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm

LOCATION: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

FEE: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

LIMIT: 40 Participants

This one-day session focuses on teachers/administrators who have taught 0 – 30 years and want assistance with critical retirement information and decision making before they retire. This session will review the implications and repercussions of early-mid career decisions, laws, policies and processes, benefit options and investment plans. Whether you are just starting your career or close to the end- you will learn how to maximize your benefits and be ready to make better decisions for the future. The workshop will be conducted by Mr. Ayers, April Spencer and Deborah Rapetski. You will leave the day tired, but much better informed.
If you have questions, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Early Planning for a Successful Retirement: July 2025
2025-07-16 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: July 16, 2025
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm

LOCATION: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

FEE: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

LIMIT: 40 Participants

This one-day session focuses on teachers/administrators who have taught 0 – 30 years and want assistance with critical retirement information and decision making before they retire. This session will review the implications and repercussions of early-mid career decisions, laws, policies and processes, benefit options and investment plans. Whether you are just starting your career or close to the end- you will learn how to maximize your benefits and be ready to make better decisions for the future. The workshop will be conducted by Mr. Ayers, April Spencer and Deborah Rapetski. You will leave the day tired, but much better informed.
If you have questions, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

WRESA Regional AIG Credentials Course – 2025
2025-07-23 09:00 - 15:00, 2025-07-24 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: July 23 & 24, 2025
Time: 9:00am-3:00pm
Type: In-person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $85 WRESA Members Only

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

Audience: K-12 Classroom Teachers, (Licensed AIG Specialists are welcome)
CEUs: 10 Contact hours
What to Bring: Charged device
Description:
AIG Coordinators across the NC Western Region have recognized the need for classroom teachers to understand the unique characteristics and needs of gifted learners. In this 2-day course, teachers will review and understand their own district-specific Academically/Intellectually Gifted Services Plans. They will learn how to recognize the characteristics of gifted learners and understand their unique learning needs. Differentiation strategies for the regular classroom will be a focus and teachers will leave with tools for planning, working in PLCs, and using differentiation strategies in their classrooms.
Participants will receive a WRESA Regional AIG Credentials certificate. While it is important to note that this is not NC AIG Licensure, it will provide a practical level of knowledge and skill that will benefit gifted and advanced learners in classrooms across the region. These credentials will be recognized and accepted by the WRESA member school systems. Stephanie Knox, the AIG/Advanced Learning Lead Specialist for Buncombe County schools will be leading this workshop.
If you have additional questions, contact April Spencer aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Franklin Covey 4 Disciplines of Execution for Educators
2025-08-05 09:00 - 15:00 | WCU Biltmore Park, 28 Schenck Pkwy, Asheville, NC, 28803, United States
Date: August 5, 2025 (Cancelled - To Be Rescheduled)
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WCU Biltmore Park
28 Schenck Pkwy
Asheville, NC 28803

Fee: No Fee
Audience: K-12 Educators, School Administrators and District Superintendents
CEUS: 5 Contact Hours
Description:

If you have additional questions, contact Jan Webster at jwebster@wresa.org

If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.

REGISTRATION WILL REOPEN WHEN IT IS RESCHEDULED

Leading the Way: School Administrators and the IDEA
2025-09-09 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: September 9, 2025 (Rescheduled from original December 10, 2024)
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: No Fee
Audience: K-12 School Administrators
CEUS: 5 Contact Hours
Description:
This full-day professional development seeks to challenge aspiring administrators and school
administrators to examine the impact of their leadership on the educational and functional
outcomes of students with disabilities within their schools. The session will address the many
facets that face school administrators as they lead schools that support the education of
students with disabilities, such as the impact of their leadership on the instruction, curriculum
and environment for students with disabilities within their schools.
During the session we will examine implementation of IDEA and NC Policies through a
leadership style and school culture lens. We will provide support for administrators in
deepening their understanding of state and federal IDEA regulations as well as implementation
of specially designed instruction, services and programs for students with disabilities.
Presenters:
Teri Queen currently serves as the Northwest and Western Region Literacy Consultant for the
North Carolina Public Schools Office of Exceptional Children for the Program Improvement and
Professional Development section. In this role, she facilitates building capacity and
sustainability of the NC State Improvement Project grant through systems level coaching. In
addition to providing guidance in the data driven continuous improvement needs, she works
with professional, parent, and service organizations and Institutions of Higher Education to
promote appropriate public education and improved services for students with disabilities for
North Carolina Public Schools and private Universities. Teri has previously served as an
Exceptional Children Director, EC Program Specialist, EC Instructional Facilitator, Federal
Programs Coordinator, Exceptional Children Transition Specialist, Accountability Coordinator
and an Exceptional Children Teacher in North Carolina and Virginia over the course of 26 years.
Kelly Doppke is an IDEA Consultant for the Western Region with the Office of Exceptional
Children, where she provides regional support to EC leadership and school teams in LEAs and
Charters across the area. Originally from South Carolina, Kelly moved to Western North Carolina
with her family in 2007. She holds an undergraduate degree in Elementary, Early Childhood,
and Special Education from Lander University, a Master of Education from Southern Wesleyan
University, and a Post-Master’s Certificate in School Administration from Western Carolina
University.
Kelly’s favorite job, aside from her current role, was serving as a camp counselor at Camp
Spearhead, a camp for children and adults with special needs in upstate South Carolina.
Throughout her career as a teacher, program specialist, and EC director, Kelly developed a deep
passion for creating inclusive systems for students with disabilities. Her leadership focus is on
reducing exclusionary practices for students with challenging behaviors and finding ways to
ensure equitable opportunities for all students.
Traci Royal currently serves as the IDEA Consultant for the Northwest region with the Office of
Exceptional Children. In this role, she directly supports EC Directors and Charter Coordinators
and their staff through professional development, coaching, and technical assistance in all areas
related to the provision of special education services as well as overall program evaluation and
improvement. Traci serves on the NW Regional Support Team as well. Prior to transitioning to
NCDPI in this role in 2020, Traci served in both small and large school districts as an elementary
and high school EC teacher across multiple educational settings, assistant EC Director, EC
Director, and Executive EC Director.

If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers csellers@wresa.org

If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

STEM to Your Doorstep - 2025
2025-09-15 09:00 - 15:00 | Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center, 455 Research Drive, Mills river, NC, 28759, United States
Date: September 15, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Ext. Center
455 Research Drive
Mills River, NC 28759

Fee: $65

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: K-12 Teachers
What to Bring: A charged device
Description:
K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics teachers, what do you need to boost the STEM curriculum in your schools? How about free access to technology, resources and lab materials for use in the classroom? Now, the real question is how can you make this happen? You can participate in a day of training presented by The Science House of NC State University. You will use MacBooks, LabQuests and various probes to explore science and math concepts. After the training session, you will be eligible to participate in the equipment loan program through The Mountain Satellite Office of The Science House. Participants will be trained on equipment use and equipment implementation through the use of grade level activities.
If you have questions about the workshop, contact Michelle Taylor (828-206-3014 / mtbenign@ncsu.edu)
If you have questions about registration, contact LaDonna Sluder at WRESA (828-774-5681 ext 102 / lsluder@wresa.org )
REGISTER

Mentor Training - WRESA 2025
2025-09-16 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: September 16, 2025
Time: 9:00am-3:00pm

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-Members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

Audience: Future mentor teachers and current mentor teachers needing to brush up

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
What to Bring: A Charged device
Description:
The North Carolina 21st Century Mentoring course provides mentors with the skills and knowledge needed to support beginning teachers. This course is built around the North Carolina Mentor Standards which are aligned with the North Carolina Professional Teaching Standards and provides direction in how mentors can support beginning teachers in each of the teacher standards. All North Carolina students deserve effective teachers. This course helps mentors in implementing best practices for guiding beginning teachers to reach their fullest potential and is an opportunity for mentors to collaborate with others in the region in face-to-face training. Angie Eudy, the Regional Education Facilitator from NCDPI, will be leading this workshop.
Presenter:
Angie Eudy, the Regional Education Facilitator will be leading the workshop.
If you have questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

MTSS and SLD
2025-09-18 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: Sept 18, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WCU at Biltmore Park – Room 342
28 Schenck Parkway
Asheville, NC 28803

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: K-12 Educators, MTSS Coordinators, District Leaders, Administrators
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
Is your school confused and frustrated about how MTSS and Special Education work (or don’t) work together? In this one day session, participants will increase their knowledge and understanding of how the MTSS framework informs the determination of special education eligibility. Participants will unpack the framework for determining a specific learning disability while making connections to their own MTSS systems. Through the use of a self evaluation tool, schools will determine what action steps need to be taken in order to strengthen outcomes for all students.
Presenter:
Liz Massey from Buncombe County Schools will be your presenter. Liz Massey is the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Coordinator of Buncombe County Schools and a Literacy Specialist trained in the Science of Reading.
If you have additional questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Responsibility-Centered Discipline: 2025
2025-09-23 08:30 - 15:00 | Haywood County Schools Conference Center, 112 Virginia Avenue, Waynesville, NC, 28786, United States
Date: September 23, 2025
Time: 8:30am-3:00pm

Location: Haywood County Schools Conference Center
112 Virginia Ave
Waynesville, NC 28786

Fee: Free

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 65 Participants
Audience: Teachers, Principals, Assistant Principals, and other Educational Leaders
What to Bring? Your own device
Description:
Back for a third time due to its popularity, this session delves into the challenges of working with difficult students. Working with demanding and disruptive students is not a new challenge for educators. However, there are current concerns being voiced regarding the changing nature and intensity of behaviors of these students. Some educators are reporting increases in selfish, manipulative, and hostile behaviors while others are noticing more students who are overly anxious and/or difficult to engage. Even well-season educators can sometimes have their “feathers ruffled” by certain students in certain situations. This seminar is designed to assist all educators with identifying and addressing these and other issues that affect the academic and behavioral progress of the students with whom they work. This power-packed seminar will provide you with up-to-date insights and strategies for reaching and helping those young people who seem to evoke the strongest feeling of frustration, hurt, and sometimes discouragement in professional educators.
Presenter: Larry Thompson, M.ED
Our presenter for the day is Larry Thompson. He is often called upon to deliver keynote presentations for state and national education conferences because of his knowledge, humor and passion for assisting today’s students. He has helped thousands of educators and schools break away from their traditional discipline models to a model that creates a responsible climate and responsible students. Larry has served in a wide variety of roles in education – from special education teacher to alternative and traditional high school principal. Larry understands that systems must be created that can be realistically implemented and sustained.
For additional information/ questions contact Jill Chambers jchambers@wresa.org
REGISTER

An Overview of the Science of Reading for Secondary Teachers
2025-09-25 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: Sept 25, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: 6-12 ELA and Content Teachers, and Instructional Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
An overview of The Science of Reading and its relevancy and application in the secondary classroom. Participants will learn effective instructional strategies for both analog and digital learning environments. This program is intended for teachers in grades 6-12 and is part of a 4-day badge series for secondary literacy. It can be taken as a part of the badge series or independently.
Presenter:
Kendra Cameron-Jarvis is the Senior Literacy Specialist at NCCAT. With a career in education that began in 2004, Kendra has served in various roles including middle and high school ELA educator, Secondary Literacy Coach, and Instructional Technologist with Buncombe County Schools. She has also contributed to state-level initiatives with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, leading efforts such as the North Carolina Coaching Cohort and the AI Collaborative. Additionally, Kendra has shared her expertise as an adjunct professor in UNCA’s Education Department. Her extensive experience reflects a deep commitment to advancing literacy and educational practices.
***IMPORTANT NOTE: The Secondary Literacy Badge series focuses on a research-to-practice exploration of the foundational skills in literacy with a focus on secondary literacy. You can earn an NCCAT Secondary Literacy Badge while deepening your own understanding of the building blocks of beginning reading. This program is intended for teachers in grades 6-12 and is part of a 4-day badge series for secondary literacy. Participants will learn effective instructional strategies for both analog and digital learning environments. WRESA participants can take any number of the sessions; however, all four sessions must be completed to earn the NCCAT Literacy Badge. Below are the dates and the topics of the four sessions of the Secondary Literacy Badge series:

Sept 25, 2025 – An Overview of the Science of Reading for Secondary Teachers
Nov 6, 2025 – Vocabulary for Secondary Teachers
Feb 5, 2026 – Comprehension for Secondary Teachers
Mar 12, 2026 – The Reading and Writing Connection for Secondary Teachers

If you have additional questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Navigating the NCEES System and Understanding the NC Teacher Evaluation Rubric
2025-10-01 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
COURSE CANCELLED

Date: October 1, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: Free

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: Principals, Assistant Principals, and NCEES Site
Administrators new to NCEES or those who need or want a refresh

What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
WRESA Top 10 NCEES Administrator Refresher: Navigating the NCEES System and Understanding the NC Teacher Evaluation Rubric.
Navigating the NCEES System: The first half of this session will provide essential guidance on utilizing the NCEES system effectively. We will cover key topics, including Professional Development tracking, assigning plans, managing access rights, understanding the Staff Evaluation Dashboard, accessing reporting guidance, troubleshooting common issues, and exploring available resources.
Understanding the NC Teacher Evaluation Rubric: The second half of this session will provide a comprehensive overview of the NC Teacher Evaluation Process. Participants will learn best practices for conducting observations and delivering targeted feedback using the specific language of the rubric and gain a deeper understanding of its standards, elements, and descriptors.
Presenters:
Donna Currie is the NCEES and OER Product Manager at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). With more than 28 years of experience in education, she has held various roles, including Digital Subscription and Technology Analyst, Teacher, Instructional Technology Facilitator, Digital Teaching and Learning Specialist, Virtual Academy Coordinator, and Professional Development Coordinator. Donna is passionate about supporting educators by providing training, resources, and innovative solutions to enhance teaching and learning.
Brandon Sutton is the Western Regional Director for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. With more than 20 years of experience in education, he has held various roles, including Regional Director, Chief Academic Officer for Swain County Schools, middle school principal, high school assistant principal, and EC Teacher. Brandon was the 2019 Wells Fargo Western Region Principal of the Year.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
COURSE HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Digging Into the New 5th Grade Science Standards
2025-10-09 09:00 - 15:00, 2026-01-14 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 9, 2025 Day #1 (MUST ATTEND BOTH SESSIONS)
January 14, 2026 Day #2 (MUST ATTEND BOTH SESSIONS)

Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $100 for both sessions - WRESA Members
$150 for both sessions - Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 10 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: 5th Grade Teachers and Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
Digging into the New 5th Grade Science Standards is a dynamic two-day experience designed to move beyond surface-level understanding and immerse teachers in the core ideas and practices of the new science standards. Participants will learn how Science and Engineering Practices can be lifted in their classrooms using phenomenon-based learning, student discourse, and the Ambitious Science Teaching Framework. This will be a two-day workshop with time between sessions.
Presenter:
Carla Billups has worked for over 34 years in elementary science education as a
teacher in Haywood County Schools and the Elementary STEM Coach for Buncombe
County Schools where she worked to implement and design curriculum for 24
elementary STEM labs. Prior to this work, she was an elementary Math and Science
teacher for 6 years of her 26 years as an elementary school teacher. Carla has also
been an adjunct instructor for Western Carolina University where she taught Elementary
Science Methods. She was an instructor for the ExxonMobil Teachers Academy for 14
years and for AIMS Education Foundation for 23 years. She served as the president of
the North Carolina Science Leadership Association and co-authored, the Fungus
Among Us, the Good, the Bad, and the Downright Scary made NSTA’s Outstanding
Science Trade book list in 2017. She has received the North Carolina SMT’s
Outstanding Instructional Leader Award, NCSLA’s Michael C. Jackson Distinguished
Service Award, and NCSTA’s Jo Duckett Wallace Elementary Distinguished Service
Award.
Jennifer Redfearn, Ed.D. joined the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of
Teaching in August of 2023 in the capacity of Senior STEM Specialist. In this role, she
supports teachers across the state of North Carolina with professional development and
curriculum development regarding the New North Carolina Science Standards. Before
joining NCCAT, Dr. Redfearn served with Guilford County Schools as a high school
science teacher and central office administrator. She was recently honored with the
Distinguished Service in Science Education in North Carolina Award from the North
Carolina Science Teachers Association, and the Education Award from the National
Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, Inc., Greater
Greensboro Chapter. Redfearn holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a
Master of Arts in Teaching degree in Biology Education, both from North Carolina
Agricultural and Technical State University. She also holds a Doctorate in Curriculum
and Instruction, Secondary Education from Liberty University.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Courageous Literacy Leadership: Stepping Up and Stepping Out
2025-10-14 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 14, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $110 WRESA Members
$220 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 50 Participants
Audience: K-12 Directors, Administrators, and Curriculum Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
Join us for an engaging and transformative professional development session that redefines leadership in the realm of literacy. In this dynamic and interactive experience, we’ll explore the essence of leadership—not defined by titles or years of experience, but by the courage to show up, step up, and elevate others. Expect to dive deep into high-impact leadership with a focus on awakening the leader within you. This session will ignite your passion by highlighting how improved leadership directly correlates to enhanced student learning.
Presenter:
Terrie Noland is an education leader who has devoted her career to unlocking the potential of learners of all ages. She is a former educator, school leader, and national non-profit leader. Dr. Noland is a respected keynote speaker and mentor who strives to be the spark that ignites the flames of motivation and enthusiasm in others. She holds a doctorate in Literacy and Educational Leadership and is certified by Maxwell Leadership. Dr. Noland’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that great leaders don’t just achieve success; they cultivate it in others. Known for her contagious energy and heartfelt storytelling, Dr. Noland is a force multiplier that helps others discover the joy and strength that literacy and leadership can bring. When she’s not transforming lives through her work, she can be found mentoring emerging leaders, expanding her knowledge, and sharing her vision of a world where the power of leadership unlocks limitless possibilities. Some of her favorite words are: yet, abundance, rejoice, monumental, boomerang, giggle, and cacophony.
Contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org with any questions.
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
COURSE HAS BEEN CANCELLED

AI-Powered Personalized Literacy Coaching: Transforming Elementary Teacher Practice
2025-10-21 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 21, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 50 Participants
Audience: K-5 Elementary Teachers, Media Center Coordinators, Instructional Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
This workshop explores the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for elementary teachers to personalize literacy instruction and provide targeted coaching for their students. We’ll focus on practical applications of AI that empower teachers to better understand student needs in foundational literacy skills (phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension), differentiate instruction, and provide more effective feedback. This is about teachers using AI to enhance their practice, not about students using AI for assignments.
Presenter:
Kendra Cameron-Jarvis is the Senior Literacy Specialist at NCCAT. With a career in education that began in 2004, Kendra has served in various roles including middle and high school ELA educator, Secondary Literacy Coach, and Instructional Technologist with Buncombe County Schools. She has also contributed to state-level initiatives with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, leading efforts such as the North Carolina Coaching Cohort and the AI Collaborative. Additionally, Kendra has shared her expertise as an adjunct professor in UNCA’s Education Department. Her extensive experience reflects a deep commitment to advancing literacy and educational practices.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Empowering Secondary Educators with Practical Strategies for Multilingual Learners
2025-10-22 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 22, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: Secondary Educators - Teachers, Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
This full-day interactive workshop is designed to deepen secondary educators’ understanding of multilingual learners (MLs) and equip them with effective strategies to support English language development and academic success across content areas. Through a combination of research-based theory, hands-on activities, collaboration, and reflection, participants will explore the stages of language acquisition, discover practical approaches to differentiation, and learn quick, high-impact ways to modify instruction for MLs without compromising rigor.
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

Understand the stages of second language acquisition and how they impact learning.
Identify common challenges faced by multilingual learners in secondary classrooms.
Apply instructional strategies that support both content mastery and language development.
Differentiate instruction using accessible tools and scaffolds.
Make quick, purposeful modifications to classroom materials and activities.
Build a more inclusive and responsive classroom environment for MLs.

Presenter:
Angie Eudy Ledford is an experienced educator with a deep commitment to supporting teachers and students across North Carolina. She currently serves as the NCDPI Regional Education Facilitator for the Western Region where she provides training and support for Beginning Teacher Programs. She has a background in instructional coaching, having served as an ESL and High School Instructional Coach for Henderson County Public Schools. As a School Improvement Specialist, she led collaborative planning sessions and data-driven strategies to enhance instructional outcomes. Her teaching career spans multiple subjects, including French, ESL, Language Arts, and Social Studies.
Angie’s expertise extends to professional development, having worked with districts across the Western Region to deliver culturally sensitive and effective instructional training for Multilingual Learners. She holds National Board Certification in English as a New Language and has served as a scorer and trainer for Pearson’s National Board Certification program.
If you have additional questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Canva for Literacy Projects (Secondary)
2025-10-23 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 23, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: 6-12 ELA and Content Teachers, Media Coordinators, and Instructional Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
This hands-on workshop explores how Canva can transform classrooms into creative hubs for literacy-rich projects. Participants will learn how to guide students in designing infographics, multimedia presentations, podcasts, and more, all while reinforcing core literacy skills and deepening subject matter understanding.
Presenter:
Kendra Cameron-Jarvis is the Senior Literacy Specialist at NCCAT. With a career in education that began in 2004, Kendra has served in various roles including middle and high school ELA educator, Secondary Literacy Coach, and Instructional Technologist with Buncombe County Schools. She has also contributed to state-level initiatives with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, leading efforts such as the North Carolina Coaching Cohort and the AI Collaborative. Additionally, Kendra has shared her expertise as an adjunct professor in UNCA’s Education Department. Her extensive experience reflects a deep commitment to advancing literacy and educational practices.
If you have additional questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Responsibility-Centered Discipline (RCD) Day #2: Advanced Skills
2025-10-29 08:30 - 15:00 | Goodwill Career Center, 1616 Patton Avenue, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 29, 2025
Time: 8:30am-3:00pm

Location: Goodwill Career Center
1616 Patton Ave
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $ 50 WRESA Members
$100 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 65 Participants
Audience: Teachers, Principals, Assistant Principals, and other Educational Leaders
What to Bring? Your own device
Description:
Building upon the foundational concepts introduced in RCD Day #1, RCD Day #2 dives deeper into the practical application of Responsibility-Centered Discipline (RCD) through scenario-based training and systemic solutions that support teachers, students, and administrators.
Key components of Day #2 include:

Scenario Training
Level Three: The Correction Process (Office Referrals)
Addressing Level 2 & 3 Students
RCD Implementation

By the end of Day #2, participants will be equipped with actionable tools to reinforce responsibility-centered discipline, strengthen school-wide consistency, and improve student outcomes through proactive, solution-focused strategies.
Presenter: Larry Thompson, M.ED
Our presenter for the day is Larry Thompson. He is often called upon to deliver keynote presentations for state and national education conferences because of his knowledge, humor and passion for assisting today’s students. He has helped thousands of educators and schools break away from their traditional discipline models to a model that creates a responsible climate and responsible students. Larry has served in a wide variety of roles in education – from special education teacher to alternative and traditional high school principal. Larry understands that systems must be created that can be realistically implemented and sustained.
For additional information/ questions contact Jill Chambers jchambers@wresa.org
REGISTER

Early Planning for a Successful Retirement: Oct 2025
2025-10-30 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 30, 2025
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm

LOCATION: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

FEE: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

LIMIT: 40 Participants

This one-day session focuses on teachers/administrators who have taught 0 – 30 years and want assistance with critical retirement information and decision making before they retire. This session will review the implications and repercussions of early-mid career decisions, laws, policies and processes, benefit options and investment plans. Whether you are just starting your career or close to the end- you will learn how to maximize your benefits and be ready to make better decisions for the future. The workshop will be conducted by Mr. Ayers, April Spencer and Deborah Rapetski. You will leave the day tired, but much better informed.
If you have questions, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Strengthening Your Students' Social Muscle
2025-11-05 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: November 5, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 50 Participants
Audience: EC Teachers, K-5 General Ed teachers and counselors
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
This full day training/workshop will focus on providing strategies for teachers and counselors to use with their Elementary students (K-5) in the general education and special education setting. When our young learners struggle with big emotions, it can be confusing and overwhelming for them to focus on academic tasks. This training will discuss proactive strategies utilizing visual sports, step by step problem solving techniques and address executive functioning skills to successfully navigate both the school and home environment.
Presenter: Marlou de Vera, M.Ed. – Autism Specialist
Marlou is an autism specialist with 29 years experience working in the educational setting. She is currently serving grades K-12 for Buncombe County schools in Asheville, North Carolina. As an autism/behavior specialist, Marlou coaches and trains instructional staff regarding pro-active programming and emotional/behavioral support in the classroom. In addition, she conducts and facilitates social groups for K-12 students with special needs, in collaboration with speech and occupational therapists as well as special education teachers. Prior to being an autism/behavior specialist, Marlou was an exceptional children’s curriculum specialist. She also worked as a middle school intensive intervention teacher for students with autism and was program director for a mainstreaming program for K-12 students with high functioning autism. Marlou is a certified TEACCH professional practitioner with University of North Carolina,Chapel Hill. She also received clinical training from Social Thinking (Michelle Garcia Winner– San Jose, California). Marlou holds a master’s degree in education (Curriculum and Instruction) from the University of the Philippines. Marlou has a passion for constantly improving the educational experience of her students as they reach their potential in school and be the best they can become. Most important of all, she is a mom of a consistently happy adult son (Vidal) with autism who currently works at a restaurant as a busboy and at an ice-cream shop. His positive cheerful attitude is what drives Marlou to advocate for all individuals with special needs.
Contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org with any questions.
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Vocabulary for Secondary Teachers
2025-11-06 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: November 6, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: 6-12 ELA and Content Teachers, and Instructional Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
Focus on how to accelerate vocabulary acquisition and knowledge gains in the secondary classroom using current research and best practices. Participants will learn effective instructional strategies for both analog and digital learning environments. This program is intended for teachers in grades 6-12, and is a part of a 4-day badge series for secondary literacy. It can be taken as a part of the badge series or independently.
Presenter:
Kendra Cameron-Jarvis is the Senior Literacy Specialist at NCCAT. With a career in education that began in 2004, Kendra has served in various roles including middle and high school ELA educator, Secondary Literacy Coach, and Instructional Technologist with Buncombe County Schools. She has also contributed to state-level initiatives with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, leading efforts such as the North Carolina Coaching Cohort and the AI Collaborative. Additionally, Kendra has shared her expertise as an adjunct professor in UNCA’s Education Department. Her extensive experience reflects a deep commitment to advancing literacy and educational practices.
***IMPORTANT NOTE: The Secondary Literacy Badge series focuses on a research-to-practice exploration of the foundational skills in literacy with a focus on secondary literacy. You can earn an NCCAT Secondary Literacy Badge while deepening your own understanding of the building blocks of beginning reading. This program is intended for teachers in grades 6-12 and is part of a 4-day badge series for secondary literacy. Participants will learn effective instructional strategies for both analog and digital learning environments. WRESA participants can take any number of the sessions; however, all four sessions must be completed to earn the NCCAT Literacy Badge. Below are the dates and the topics of the four sessions of the Secondary Literacy Badge series:

Sept 25, 2025 – An Overview of the Science of Reading for Secondary Teachers
Nov 6, 2025 – Vocabulary for Secondary Teachers
Feb 5, 2026 – Comprehension for Secondary Teachers
Mar 12, 2026 – The Reading and Writing Connection for Secondary Teachers

If you have additional questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

National Board Support for New Candidates and Renewals – 2025
2025-11-08 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: November 8, 2025 (Saturday)

Time: Morning Session: 9:00am – 12:00pm
Afternoon Session: 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $25 WRESA Members (per session)
$50 Non-members (per session)

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 2.5 Contact Hours (each session) - if district accepts them
Limit: 50 Participants
Audience: National Board New and Renewal Candidates

Description:
Morning Session: Come spend the morning learning about the National Board process for new candidates. Lynn Carter, our own NBCT expert will go over all the details and provide you with a timeline and resources to be successful. This workshop will be 9:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Afternoon Session: The afternoon session will be from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm and will be for those NBCTs who are getting ready to renew. They will have an opportunity to discuss this process and begin thinking about the entries and accomplishments that would work best.
Presenter: Lynn Carter will facilitate both sessions with her wealth of knowledge about the process.
For more information, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org, 828.774. 5681 ext 103
REGISTER

MTSS for Reading Improvement
2025-11-18 09:00 - 15:00 | Holiday Inn Asheville Biltmore West, 435 Smokey Park Highway, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: November 18, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: Holiday Inn Asheville Biltmore West (Forest Ballroom)
435 Smokey Park Highway
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $100 WRESA Members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 90 Participants
Audience: K-5 teachers, EC teachers, interventionists, coaches, SLPs, and psychologists
What to Bring: Your own device
Description:
MTSS is the framework for implementing the science of reading. Without
teams using data in a structured process for making decisions, MTSS may
become random acts of improvement that aren’t integrated with local
needs and resources.
Participants will learn:
• the definition and components of MTSS for reading improvement
• the characteristics of and processes used by effective teams
• the characteristics of tiered supports and how to evaluate their
effectiveness
• the common MTSS misconceptions and missteps and how to avoid
or correct them
This workshop supports implementation of the concepts, actions and tools
contained in the book, MTSS For Reading Improvement by Sarah Brown
and Stephanie Stollar. Reading the book ahead of time is not required but
will enhance the learning experience. Participants are encouraged to
attend as a Building Leadership Teams including representation from
building leadership, classroom teachers (general education and special
education, and support staff (interventionists, SLPs, school psychologists,
coaches, etc.)
Presenter: Stephanie Stollar
Stephanie Stollar is passionate about using MTSS as the framework for helping all students
become skilled readers. Her books include MTSS for Reading Improvement, Promoting Effective
MTSS Implementation, and Reading Assessment Done Right. She’s the founder of the Reading
Science Academy, an online community where over a thousand educators support each other to
improve results in their schools. She supports effective educator preparation through her
work with the National Council on Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) network,
STARS in Higher Education.
Dr. Stollar serves on the boards of the Evidence Advocacy Center and the Innovations in
Education Consortium. Her past roles include Assistant Professor, Vice President at Acadience
Learning, Inc., consultant to hundreds of schools, and School Psychologist.
Dr. Stollar believes that by supporting all educators, high achievement is possible for every
student.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTRATION CLOSED

Amie Dean: Behavior Interventions That Work – Nov 2025
2025-11-18 09:00 - 15:00 | WCU Blue Ridge Hall, 515 Centennial Dr, Cullowhee, NC, 28723, United States
Date: November 18, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm

Type: In-Person

Location: Western Carolina University
Blue Ridge Hall (Conference Room on the First Floor)
515 Centennial Dr
Cullowhee, NC 28723

***Note that parking directions will be provided in an
email closer to the time of the event.

Fee: $25
NCNTSP Participants: FREE-Contact your BT Coordinator for code

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder at
lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change the
name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 200 Participants
Audience: K-12 Educators
What to Bring: A charged device
Description:
Through teaching and coaching in classrooms with many behavioral challenges for almost 30 years, Amie knows what works to help students succeed. Her goals have always included helping students build confidence, promoting social emotional literacy, and teaching positive habits that will help them be successful adults. The strategies shared in this course are practical, simple, and proven. Behavior Interventions that Work is Amie’s most requested course.
Topics covered in this course:

Setting up a classroom system
Setting up a positive classroom community
Purpose of behavior
Building motivation in your students
Dealing with defiance and maintaining self-control
Consistency – Setting up a Classroom Discipline Cycle
Minimizing noise with group contingencies

Presenter: Amie Dean
Amie is also the author of four books, including her workbook, Your Roadmap for Creating a Positive Classroom Community, which includes over 200 pages of strategies and ideas for building a positive classroom community and responding to behavior. She has worked with thousands of teachers across the U. S. and is thrilled to work with Western Carolina University and WRESA!
If you have additional questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Close Read Strategies for Secondary Teachers
2025-12-04 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: December 4, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: 6-12 ELA and Content Teachers, Media Coordinators, and Instructional Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
Designed for grades 6-12, this session explores proven techniques from leading literacy experts like Timothy Shanahan, Sharon Vaughn, Timothy Rasinski, and Kelly Gallagher to enhance student comprehension and fluency. The workshop covers summarization, questioning, visualization, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and deep reading strategies.
Presenter:
Kendra Cameron-Jarvis is the Senior Literacy Specialist at NCCAT. With a career in education that began in 2004, Kendra has served in various roles including middle and high school ELA educator, Secondary Literacy Coach, and Instructional Technologist with Buncombe County Schools. She has also contributed to state-level initiatives with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, leading efforts such as the North Carolina Coaching Cohort and the AI Collaborative. Additionally, Kendra has shared her expertise as an adjunct professor in UNCA’s Education Department. Her extensive experience reflects a deep commitment to advancing literacy and educational practices.
If you have additional questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Science Lab Safety for Schools and School Systems
2025-12-09 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: December 9, 2025
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $25 WRESA Members
$50 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Audience: K-12 Educators

Description:
Are your science labs or classrooms safe for teachers and students? Have you had some turnover in your schools and want to make sure the people in your schools are properly informed on safety procedures? Are your chemicals stored properly? Are emergency procedures in place at your school?
How can you be sure? Join us to create or improve upon your school science safety plan. Make your classroom, your school, or your school system as safe as it can possibly be!
Presenter: Gina Barrier, Director of Summer Programs & Extended Partnerships at the NCSSM Morganton will be your instructor.
For more information, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Turning Numbers in Narratives: Making EVAAS Work for You
2026-01-22 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: January 22, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $50 WRESA Members
$75 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 50 Participants
Audience: District and school-based administrators, and testing coordinators
What to Bring: Your own device and EVAAS log-in

Description:
This session transforms EVAAS data from numbers on a screen into a powerful
story about student growth and instructional impact. Participants will gain a clear
understanding of how the EVAAS value-added system works and learn how to
interpret and apply its insights to improve teaching and learning. Through a hands-on
exploration of real data, you’ll leave equipped to turn your school’s data into actionable
strategies for student success.
Presenter: Scott Rhodes
Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources
Henderson County Public Schools
Mr. Rhodes is in his 33rd year in public education. He has served in Henderson County
in various capacities, including teacher, coach, assistant principal, middle and high
school principal, and currently serves as assistant superintendent for Human
Resources.
Mr. Rhodes received his undergraduate degree in Health and Physical Education from
Western Carolina University and his master’s degree in School Administration from
Gardner-Webb University.
Mr. Rhodes was selected as the 2015 NASSP, North Carolina Secondary Principal of
the Year.
Presenter: Kimberly Henderson
Director of Accountability
Henderson County Public Schools
Mrs. Henderson is in her 28th year in public education. She has served in Henderson
County in various capacities, including math and science teacher, coach, assistant
principal, elementary principal, and currently serves as director of accountability for
Henderson County Public Schools.
Mrs. Henderson received her undergraduate degree in Math from Gardner Webb
College and her master’s degree in leadership from Gardner Webb University.
Contact Candie Sellers csellers@wresa.org if you have questions.
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Inquiry in Action: Making Primary Sources Meaningful in 6-8 Social Studies
2026-01-29 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: January 29, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: 6-8 Educators who teach Social Studies, Coaches
What to bring?: Your own device
Description:
Inquiry is at the heart of powerful social studies instruction, and primary sources are the tools that bring inquiry to life. Join us as we explore how the use of primary source material and inquiry-based learning can transform teaching, strengthen literacy skills, and deepen student understanding.
This highly interactive workshop will guide educators through the use of primary sources not simply as information, evidence, or artifacts, but as catalysts for incorporating inquiry and strengthening critical thinking skills. Participants will explore practical ways to meaningfully integrate the literacy skills and practices of the Social Studies Inquiry Strand into daily instruction while also discovering fun and innovative ways to drive inquiry-based learning through the alignment of primary source material and framing instruction around compelling questions.
Whether you are new to inquiry-based instruction or looking to refine your practice, this session will empower you to make questioning, source analysis, and evidence-based reasoning the driving forces of your social studies classroom and strengthen social studies literacy skills.
Presenter: Michelle McLaughlin, our K-12 Social Studies consultant from NCDPI, will lead this workshop.
If you have additional questions, contact April Spencer at aspencer@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER

Comprehension for Secondary Teachers
2026-02-05 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: February 5, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

Location: WRESA
200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $45 WRESA Members
$70 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. Contact LaDonna Sluder
at lsluder@wresa.org or 828-774-5681 (ext 102) if you need to change
the name of the person attending.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: 6-12 ELA and Content Teachers, and Instructional Coaches
What to Bring: Your own device

Description:
Focus on participants analyzing current research and best practices for effectively teaching reading comprehension strategies for the secondary classroom. Participants will apply new learning to create an implementation plan for teaching reading comprehension in their secondary classroom. Participants will learn effective instructional strategies for both analog and digital learning environments.
Presenter:
Kendra Cameron-Jarvis is the Senior Literacy Specialist at NCCAT. With a career in education that began in 2004, Kendra has served in various roles including middle and high school ELA educator, Secondary Literacy Coach, and Instructional Technologist with Buncombe County Schools. She has also contributed to state-level initiatives with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, leading efforts such as the North Carolina Coaching Cohort and the AI Collaborative. Additionally, Kendra has shared her expertise as an adjunct professor in UNCA’s Education Department. Her extensive experience reflects a deep commitment to advancing literacy and educational practices.
***IMPORTANT NOTE: The Secondary Literacy Badge series focuses on a research-to-practice exploration of the foundational skills in literacy with a focus on secondary literacy. You can earn an NCCAT Secondary Literacy Badge while deepening your own understanding of the building blocks of beginning reading. This program is intended for teachers in grades 6-12 and is part of a 4-day badge series for secondary literacy. Participants will learn effective instructional strategies for both analog and digital learning environments. WRESA participants can take any number of the sessions; however, all four sessions must be completed to earn the NCCAT Literacy Badge. Below are the dates and the topics of the four sessions of the Secondary Literacy Badge series:

Sept 25, 2025 – An Overview of the Science of Reading for Secondary Teachers
Nov 6, 2025 – Vocabulary for Secondary Teachers
Feb 5, 2026 – Comprehension for Secondary Teachers
Mar 12, 2026 – The Reading and Writing Connection for Secondary Teachers

If you have additional questions, contact Jill Chambers at jchambers@wresa.org
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
REGISTER
