WRESA

Lead Well, Teach Well: The Neuroscience of Administrator Wellness and School Culture
2026-09-15 09:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: September 15, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 50 Participants
Audience: K-12 Administrators, District & School Level, and Asst Principals
What to bring?: Your own device

Description:
School leaders wear many hats—coach, communicator, problem-solver, and
supporter—often while carrying the emotional weight of an entire school community.
This engaging, research-based session explores how the neuroscience of stress,
resilience, and emotional regulation influences leadership, school culture, and teacher
well-being. Participants will discover practical, brain-based strategies to improve
decision-making, establish healthy boundaries, create sustainable work-life balance,
prioritize personal wellness, and model healthy leadership. Through simple, realistic
practices, including movement, breathing, nutrition, purposeful routines, and intentional
self-care, leaders will leave equipped to strengthen their own well-being while creating a
ripple effect that empowers teachers, supports students, and fosters a thriving school
community.
Presenters:
Casey Kruk is a 21-year veteran educator whose career spans roles as a teacher, coach,
athletic director, high school assistant principal, and–most recently–6 years as a middle school
principal. Anchored by the belief that school administrators must be led by a desire to be
instructional leaders, he has guided his middle school to consistent growth over the last 6
years–including its first-ever Exceeds Growth designation in 2022–while navigating the
challenges of COVID-19, two major floods, and all the other things the world has thrown at us.
As a cancer survivor, he pairs this deep commitment to educational excellence with hard-earned
personal perspective, advocating for educator stress management, long-term well-being, and
meaningful human connection.
Dr. Natalie Boone is an educator, coach, and wellness advocate with more than 20
years of experience helping students and educators recognize their strengths, improve
their well-being, and create meaningful change. She currently serves as an Associate
Professor of Kinesiology and Health Sciences at Mars Hill University, where she
teaches health, human performance, kinesiology, and physical education. In addition to
teaching, she serves as an academic advisor, internship coordinator, Physical
Education Teacher Education coordinator, and growth coach for student-athletes. She
holds two doctorates: one in Educational Leadership from Gardner-Webb University and
one in Kinesiology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, as well as two
master’s degrees and numerous certifications.
Boone’s work is grounded in the belief that effective teaching and leadership begin with
understanding the whole person. Her professional interests include the neuroscience of
learning, educator wellness, stress and emotional regulation, movement-based learning,
student engagement, and the connection between physical, mental, emotional, and
relational health. She is passionate about translating research into practical strategies
that educators and school leaders can realistically use in their daily lives and
professional practice.
Beyond the university classroom, Boone leads professional development workshops for
educators across the state, coaches CrossFit, and provides movement and wellness
opportunities in her community. Her engaging and authentic presentation style
combines research, practical application, reflection, movement, and humor. Whether
working with students, teachers, athletes, or school leaders, Boone’s goal is to help
people feel seen, supported, and equipped to lead and live well.
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

National Board Support for New Candidates and Renewals: Sept 2026
2026-09-19 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: September 19, 2026 (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

Finance Series for Superintendents, Finance Officers & HR Directors
2026-09-22 11:30 - 15:00, 2026-10-13 11:30 - 15:00, 2026-11-03 11:30 - 15:00, 2027-01-12 11:30 - 15:00, 2027-03-09 11:30 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: September 22, 2026, October 13, November 3, January 12, 2027, and March 9, 2027
Time: 11:30am – 3:00pm

Type: In-Person

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

Fee: FREE with lunch included

CEUs: 3.5 Contact Hours per session or 1.75 for the entire 5 sessions
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: Superintendents, Finance Officers & HR Directors
What to bring?: Your own device

Description:
WRESA, in partnership with NCASBO, is providing a structured, professional development series
for superintendents, finance officers, and human resource directors across the Western Carolina
Region.
This series will strengthen financial leadership capacity, improve transparency, and ensure
accountability in the management of public school funds. Training to be led by teams consisting of
one superintendent and one finance officer – a pairing that reflects the essential collaboration
required for effective financial management in school districts.
OUTCOMES – Participants will:
• Leave each session with at least one ready to use tool
• Strengthen collaboration
• Increase operational efficiency
• Improve compliance readiness
• Understand the fiscal cycle
• Build a regional network of peers
Session 1: September 22, 2026 – Laying the Foundation
• NC Public School Fiscal Control Act/Fund Accounting/Chart of Accounts
• Financial Reporting Requirements
• Current Year Allotments
• Continuing Budget Resolutions & Budget Adoption
• Position Control & Staffing Alignment
Session 2: October 13, 2026 – Building & Communicating the Budget
• Presenting Budgets to Boards of Ed. & Stakeholders
• Working on Budgets with Central Office Directors & Principals
• Annual External Audit & Preparing for Annual Audit Presentation
• Spending Projections for Current Year
• State & Federal Allotments for Special Populations
• Cash Management Requirements
• Investment of Idle Funds
Session 3: November 3, 2026 – Operational Controls & Assets
• Purchasing & Compliance – Board Approval Requirements
• Fixed Asset Tracking
• Property Disposal Rules
• Internal Controls & Risk Management
• Long Term Planning for Declining Enrollment
Session 4: January 12, 2027 – Preparing for the New Fiscal Year
• State Planning Allotments for 2027-2028
• Budget Projections for 2027-2028
• Salary Audit Exceptions
Session 5: March 9, 2027 – Fiscal Year End Close
• Planning and Preparing for Year-End Fiscal Close out
• Allotment Projects
• Fund Balance Projects
REGISTER

An Overview of the Science of Reading for Secondary Teachers (Part 1)
2026-09-24 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: Sept 24, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

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 24, 2026 – An Overview of the Science of Reading for Secondary Teachers
Oct 28, 2026 – Vocabulary for Secondary Teachers
Feb 11, 2027 – Comprehension for Secondary Teachers
Mar 10, 2027 – The Reading and Writing Connection for Secondary Teachers

***NOTE – You must sign up and pay the fee for each session individually.
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

Student Centered Coaching
2026-09-29 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: September 29, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm
Type: In-Person

**NOTE - Jennifer Redfearn will be the Presenter
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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: K-12 Instructional Coaches
What to bring?: your own device
Description:
The work of instructional coaching is a dynamic part of school communities. Supporting coaching cultures where students are at the center is an essential part of this work. Join us at WRESA to embrace the components of student-centered coaching. We will learn coaching moves that create opportunities for professional growth, and suggestions for putting student learning at the forefront. The day will include models for co-teaching moves and providing strength-based feedback. This session is intended for K-12 instructional coaches.
Presenter:
Jennifer Redfearn began her career in education as a high school science teacher in Guilford County. She transitioned to the Guilford County Schools Central Office in 2019 where she served as the STEM Coordinator for three years. She now serves on the NCCAT faculty as the Senior STEM Specialist. In this role, Jennifer supports educators across the state with professional learning in STEM and Science.
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

Core Math Instruction Models & Practices (BADGE 1)
2026-09-30 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: September 30, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 25 Participants
Audience: Teachers and Math Coaches, Grades 6 - Math 1
Bring: Your Own Charged Device

Description:
This session will focus on core instructional models and practices that provide access and equity to all students while honoring their strengths and maximizing their potential. Join us as we examine the five practices of mathematical discourse as an instructional practice that allows students to author their knowledge. This program is intended for math teachers in grades 6- Math 1.
Presenter: Emily Myers – Senior Math Specialist NCCAT
***IMPORTANT NOTE: Join us as we explore strategies that allow all students to thrive and grow into successful mathematicians who ask questions, engage in math discourse, and think critically. This program is intended for teachers in grades 6 through Math I and is part of a 4-day NCCAT badge series for secondary math. WRESA participants can take any number of the sessions; however, all four sessions must be completed to earn the NCCAT Math Badge. Below are the dates and the topics of the four sessions of the Secondary Math Badge series:

Sept 30, 2026 – Core Math Instruction Models and Practices
Nov 5, 2026 – Hands-On Math Learning for Middle Grades
Feb 4, 2027 – Facilitating Number Sense Routines
Mar 11, 2027 – Authentic Problem-Solving in Middle Grades

You must sign up and pay the fee for each session individually.
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

Hands-On, Minds-On: Cultivating Science and STEM in K-4 Classrooms
2026-10-01 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 1, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: K-4 Teachers and Curriculum Coaches
What to bring?: Your own device

Description:
WRESA is thrilled to announce Hands-On, Minds-On: Cultivating Science and STEM
in K-4 Classrooms. Through this session, educators will have the opportunity to dive
deeper into their science standards, explore the Science and Engineering Practices,
and promote meaningful student discourse in science. Participants will engage in
hands-on activities, discover practical classroom strategies, and leave with ready-to-use
resources that will help ignite curiosity and engage all learners in high-quality science
learning experiences.
Presenter:
Brad Rhew is the current K-8 Science & STEM Coordinator for Guilford County
Schools. Rhew has been in education for over 15 years teaching elementary and
middle school science. He works closely with district, state, and national science
leaders to provide hands-on quality science instruction to all students. He serves as the
President for the North Carolina Science Teachers Association. He completed his
doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on STEM from Gardner-Webb
University. In his free time, he enjoys kayaking, hiking, and traveling.
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

Co-Teaching: Calling All Administrators
2026-10-05 08:30 - 15:30 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 5, 2026
Time: 8:30am – 3:30pm

Type: In-Person

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

Fee: Free

CEUs: 6 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: Designed for Administrators and coordinators who support co-teaching teams currently,
or will support teams in the future.
What to bring? Your own device

Description:
School administrators are provided an overview of the service delivery model of co-teaching, practical tools used to give substantial support to both the general and special educators implementing co-teaching in their schools. Administrators will discuss considerations for the selection of staff and students for co-teaching, planning for implementation, scheduling, the importance of collaborative planning, the six approaches utilized in the classroom that enhance universal design for learning, and evaluation of effective co-teaching implementation.
ADMINISTRATORS MUST ALSO JOIN THEIR TEACHER TEAMS ON October 6th from 2:30 until 3:30 for collaborative planning.
Administrators without a team may sign up for this session to learn about this co-teaching model.
Presenter:
Paige Bode has been an educator for 27 years and currently works as an IDEA Math Consultant for the Office of Exceptional Children at NC DPI where she serves the Western and Northwestern regions.
Teri Queen has been an educator for 27 years as well and currently works as an IDEA Literacy Consultant for the Office of Exceptional Children at NC DPI where she serves the Western and Northwestern regions.
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
REGISTER

Co-Teaching for Teachers: Going Beyond the Basics
2026-10-06 08:30 - 15:30 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 6, 2026
Time: 8:30am – 3:30pm

Type: In-Person

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

Fee: Free

CEUs: 6 Contact Hours
Limit: 40 Participants
Audience: Designed for Co-Teacher Teams of Teachers:
(General Education Teacher + Exceptional Children Teacher Teams or potential teams)

Description:
This professional learning supports best practice by providing teams of teachers (general and special educators) with the six approaches of co-teaching, their implementation and practical tools, can be utilized by teams implementing co-teaching as a service delivery model in their schools. The teams will gain knowledge of the essential elements of co-teaching: co-planning, co-instructing and co-assessing. The teams meet with their administrators the last hour of the day to collaborate.
The administrators who attend must have also attended Co-Teaching: Calling All Administrators on Oct. 5.
Presenter:
Paige Bode has been an educator for 27 years and currently works as an IDEA Math Consultant for the Office of Exceptional Children at NC DPI where she serves the Western and Northwestern regions.
Teri Queen has been an educator for 27 years as well and currently works as an IDEA Literacy Consultant for the Office of Exceptional Children at NC DPI where she serves the Western and Northwestern regions.
If you are unsure whether your school system is a WRESA member, click WRESA MEMBER List.
If you have additional questions, contact Candie Sellers at csellers@wresa.org
REGISTER

Classroom Management for Discipline for Secondary
2026-10-07 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 7, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: 6-12 Educators
What to bring?: Your own device

Description:
In this session, educators will apply a trauma-informed lens to classroom management and student behavior. Participants will gain practical strategies and systems to foster high-trust relationships with every student and guide them toward meaningful reflection and accountability. We will also explore techniques for repairing harm and teaching essential Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) skills that support a resilient classroom community.
Presenter:
Brian Randall is the Regional Manager for the Public School Forum’s center for Resilience and Learning. His experience and focus is serving students who are navigating challenges in and out of school through facilitating joyful and rigorous experiences.
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

Unlocking Word Power: Proven Strategies for DIBELS Success (K-3)
2026-10-08 09:00 - 12:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 8, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm

Type: In-Person

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

Fee: $25 WRESA Members
$40 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 3 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: K-2 Teachers, Administrators and Coaches
What to bring?: your own device
Description:
Join us for a transformative session focused on the lower strands of the Reading Rope: word recognition. Participants will unpack the essential components of phonological awareness, decoding, and sight recognition of familiar words—key building blocks for developing proficient readers. Explore how the science of reading informs effective, evidence-based instruction in word recognition.
Gain practical insights into refining instructional approaches to strengthen student performance in nonsense word fluency, phoneme segmentation fluency, and oral reading fluency for our youngest learners. Participants will also take a deep dive into each DIBELS subtest by grade level and leave with a clear, actionable plan to move the needle on student outcomes.
Presenter:
Cynthia Hutchins is a District Title I Literacy Coach with over 15 years of experience in education, specializing in structured literacy and the science of reading. She has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and reading specialist in Buncombe County Schools, where she now leads district wide literacy initiatives across 27 Title I schools. Cynthia is passionate about ensuring all students have access to effective, evidence-based reading instruction and works closely with educators to implement high-impact practices, analyze data, and improve student outcomes. She also designs and facilitates professional development, including Fundations and LETRS-aligned training, and has partnered with nationally recognized literacy experts to support teacher growth and student achievement.
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

High Leverage Practices for All - 2-Day PD
2026-10-14 08:30 - 15:30, 2026-10-27 08:30 - 15:30 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: Oct 14, 2026 & (MUST ATTEND BOTH DAYS)
Oct 27, 2026

Time: 8:30am - 3:30pm

Type: In-Person

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

Fee: Free

CEUs: 6 Contact Hours per day
Limit: 30 Participants
Audience: K–12 general education teachers, special education teachers,
instructional coaches, interventionists, related service providers,
school leaders, and district staff
What to Bring: Your own charged device

Description:
High-leverage practices (HLPs) are instructional approaches educators in
K–12 settings can use to teach a wide range of learners and content. The 22
research-based practices are organized into four essential aspects of teachers’
work: collaboration, assessment, social/emotional/behavioral practices, and instruction.
Together, they provide a shared framework and common language to support students
with disabilities and those who benefit from additional instructional support.
This two-day professional development workshop introduces participants to selected
HLPs that can be used across grade levels and content areas. Participants will examine
how these practices connect to daily instruction, classroom routines, student
engagement, behavior support, and planning for generalization of learning.
In this 2-day professional development, participants will be introduced to the HLPs and
address the following content.
“WHAT TO TEACH” Pillar HLP 7: Learning environments
● HLP 9: Teach Social Behaviors
● HLP 14: Teach cognitive and meta cognitive strategies
● HLP 21 Teach students to maintain and generalize new learning.
“HOW TO TEACH” Pillar HLP 16 Explicit Instruction
● HLP 18: Active Student Engagement
● HLP 15: Scaffolded Instruction
● HLP 13: Adapt Curriculum Tasks & Materials
● HLP 19: Use Assistive and Instructional Technologies
● HLP 17: Use Flexible Grouping
● HLPs 8/22: Provide Positive & Constructive Feedback
Presenter: 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.
For more information, contact April at aspencer@wresa.org, or 828.774. 5681 ext 103
REGISTER

Classroom Management and Discipline for Elementary
2026-10-20 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 20, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: K-5 Educators
What to bring?: Your own device

Description:
In this session, educators will apply a trauma-informed lens to classroom management and student behavior. Participants will gain practical strategies and systems to foster high-trust relationships with every student and guide them toward meaningful reflection and accountability. We will also explore techniques for repairing harm and teaching essential Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) skills that support a resilient classroom community.
Presenter:
Brian Randall is the Regional Manager for the Public School Forum’s center for Resilience and Learning. His experience and focus is serving students who are navigating challenges in and out of school through facilitating joyful and rigorous experiences.
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

7 Mighty Moves with Lindsay Kemeny
2026-10-23 08:30 - 15:30 | Holiday Inn Asheville Biltmore West, 435 Smokey Park Highway, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 23, 2026
Time: 8:30am – 3:30pm

Type: In-Person

Location: Holiday Inn Asheville Biltmore West
435 Smokey Park Hwy
Asheville, NC 28806

Fee: $175 WRESA Members
$265 Non-members

**NOTE: We have a No Refund policy for our WRESA courses. However, you
are welcome to send a colleague in your place. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 100 Participants
Audience: K-3 but could support schools with struggling 4th and 5th-grade students
What to bring?: Your own device

Description:
Transform your reading instruction with Lindsay Kemeny, teacher and author of “7 Mighty Moves”! This workshop dives deep into the seven key moves that ensure reading success for all students.
Part 1: Cracking the Code

Demystify phonemic awareness: Gain a clear understanding of this foundational skill and discover research-backed strategies for effective instruction, including scaffolds for struggling learners.
Master explicit phonics: Learn how to make phonics engaging and ensure students develop a strong foundation in decoding skills.
Unlock the power of decodable texts: Explore engaging routines and strategies for using decodable texts in whole-group and small-group settings.

Part 2: Building Fluency and Comprehension

High-frequency words: Learn specific steps and strategies for teaching high-frequency words effectively.
Gaining fluency: Move beyond traditional round-robin reading and discover effective methods for promoting meaningful fluency practice across all grade levels.
Boosting vocabulary and comprehension: Explore how to leverage vocabulary instruction and background knowledge to enhance students’ understanding of text. Learn to incorporate writing strategies to improve students’ comprehension.

Throughout the workshop, Lindsay will share practical tips, engaging activities, and specific protocols to help you implement these “mighty moves” in your classroom.
Exciting news! The first 50 registrants will receive a free copy of 7 Mighty Moves courtesy of Scholastic.
Presenter:
Lindsay Kemeny is an elementary school teacher, speaker, and author with a passion for literacy and applying research to practice. After her son was diagnosed with dyslexia and depression, she began her deep dive into effective literacy instruction for all children. She enjoys presenting locally and nationally, and co-hosting the Literacy Talks podcast. She is the author of the books, 7 Mighty Moves, 7 Mighty Moves Reading Resources, and Rock Your Literacy Block. She loves being in the classroom every day, teaching kids to read and write.
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

Vocabulary for Secondary (Part 2)
2026-10-28 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 28, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

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 24, 2026 – An Overview of the Science of Reading for Secondary Teachers
Oct 28, 2026 – Vocabulary for Secondary Teachers
Feb 11, 2027 – Comprehension for Secondary Teachers
Mar 10, 2027 – The Reading and Writing Connection for Secondary Teachers

***NOTE – You must sign up and pay the fee for each session individually.
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

Writers at Work: Roadblocks and Workarounds
2026-10-29 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: October 29, 2026 (Note - Date moved from Oct 22nd to Oct 29th)
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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: K-5 Classroom Teachers and Instructional Coaches
What to bring?: your own device
Description:
Many young people love to write. Give them supplies and time and they create
interesting and engaging texts. But there are many more who find writing a dreaded
chore that they can’t seem to finish. For some it has to do with ownership and choice
over topic, genre, and format. For others it may be a feeling that they have nothing of
interest or worth to write about. Many writers get bogged down with the process of
finding focus and narrowing a topic, creating a vision for the scope of their project,
staying on topic, sticking with the project across time, controlling details, working within
the confines of the conventions of language, or bringing the project to a satisfying
closure. Yet, resisting revision is arguably the most common concern I hear from
teachers regarding the roadblocks their students encounter. In my work with teachers, I
frequently hear concerns about student writers reaching a point where they just don’t
know what to do to keep moving forward. Across the day we will write a bit ourselves,
we will examine the work of student writers and explore the roadblocks they have
encountered, and we will work together to create workarounds for those roadblocks and try
a few ourselves.
Presenter:
Lester Laminack, Professor Emeritus, Western Carolina University is a full-time writer
and consultant working with schools, districts, and organizations throughout the country
and abroad. He is an award winning author or co-author of twenty professional books
and eight children’s books. Dr. Laminack has served on several regional and national
boards, has served as the co-editor of the NCTE journal Primary Voices, and as the
editor of the Children’s Book Review column of the NCTE journal Language Arts. He
served several years as the Basic Reading Consultant to Literacy Volunteers of America
and as secretary for the NC Association for the Education of Young Children. He is the
recipient of two teaching awards from Western Carolina University: The Botner Superior
Teaching Award from the College of Education and Allied Profession, and the
Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award from the university. He is an active member
of ILA and NCTE and is a sought after keynote and featured speaker at state and
national conferences.
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

Facilitating Meaningful Math Discourse
2026-11-04 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: November, 4, 2026
Time: 9:00am – 3:00pm

Type: In-Person

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

Fee: $ 65 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: K-5 Classroom Teachers and Instructional Coaches
What to bring?: Your own device

Description:
This session focuses on strengthening classroom discourse through purposeful
planning and facilitation using the 5 Practices for Orchestrating Productive
Mathematical Discussions and the Launch–Explore–Discuss framework. Participants
will explore how to anticipate student thinking, monitor and select student work,
and sequence and connect ideas to build deep mathematical understanding. Through
hands-on tasks and reflection, educators will learn strategies to create inclusive,
student-centered discussions that elevate reasoning, promote equity of voice, and
make thinking visible. By the end of the session, teachers will leave with practical
tools to support meaningful discourse that advances both engagement and conceptual
understanding.
Presenter:
Meredith Stanley is a K–8 math specialist who partners with schools and districts
across North Carolina to provide student-centered professional learning. A former
elementary classroom teacher and instructional coach in Buncombe County, Meredith is
a two-time finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and
Science Teaching, a Buncombe County Teacher of the Year, a Buncombe County
Math Teacher of the Year, and a National Board–certified educator. She earned her
Master of Mathematics Teaching from Mount Holyoke College, where she also serves
as an instructor.
Meredith’s passion is helping students and teachers see themselves as confident,
capable mathematicians—a mission that drives all of her professional work. Learn more
and explore her recommended instructional resources at meredith4math.com.
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

Hands-On Math Learning for Middle Grades (BADGE 2)
2026-11-05 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: November 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 25 Participants
Audience: Teachers and Math Coaches, Grades 6 - Math 1
Bring: Your Own Charged Device

Description:
This session will focus on conceptual teaching and learning in the middle-grade mathematics classroom. Join us as we examine the concrete-representational-abstract (CRA) model and delve into work with manipulatives such as Hands-on Equations and Algebra Tiles. This program is intended for math teachers in grades 6- Math 1.
Presenter: Emily Myers – Senior Math Specialist NCCAT
***IMPORTANT NOTE: Join us as we explore strategies that allow all students to thrive and grow into successful mathematicians who ask questions, engage in math discourse, and think critically. This program is intended for teachers in grades 6 through Math I and is part of a 4-day NCCAT badge series for secondary math. WRESA participants can take any number of the sessions; however, all four sessions must be completed to earn the NCCAT Math Badge. Below are the dates and the topics of the four sessions of the Secondary Math Badge series:

Sept 30, 2026 – Core Math Instruction Models and Practices
Nov 5, 2026 – Hands-On Math Learning for Middle Grades
Feb 4, 2027 – Facilitating Number Sense Routines
Mar 11, 2027 – Authentic Problem-Solving in Middle Grades

You must sign up and pay the fee for each session individually.
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

Unlocking Language Comprehension: Navigating the Upper Realms of The Reading Rope (Grades 2-5)
2026-12-03 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: December 3, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: 2-5 Teachers, Administrators, and Coaches
What to bring?: your own device
Description:
Leap into the upper strands of the Reading Rope in this engaging session focused on language comprehension. Participants will explore the essential components of morphology, language comprehension, and fluency instruction. Gain practical insights through concrete classroom examples and evidence-aligned instructional routines designed to impact DIBELS outcomes while supporting the current ELA core curriculum. The session will also highlight data collected from a pilot study conducted in Buncombe County Schools during the previous school year.
Presenters:
Cynthia Hutchins is a District Title I Literacy Coach with over 15 years of experience in education, specializing in structured literacy and the science of reading. She has served as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and reading specialist in Buncombe County Schools, where she now leads district wide literacy initiatives across 27 Title I schools. Cynthia is passionate about ensuring all students have access to effective, evidence-based reading instruction and works closely with educators to implement high-impact practices, analyze data, and improve student outcomes. She also designs and facilitates professional development, including Fundations and LETRS-aligned training, and has partnered with nationally recognized literacy experts to support teacher growth and student achievement.
Lisa Lemus is a dedicated educator with over three decades of experience in education. After 32 years in the classroom and five years as an instructional coach, she now serves as a Title I literacy coach, where she is passionate about supporting both students and teachers in developing strong literacy skills. When she’s not working, Lisa enjoys being outdoors and making memories with her family.
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

Unlocking Learning for K-5 Multilingual Learners
2026-12-08 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: December 8, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: K-5 Classroom Teachers and Instructional Coaches
What to bring?: Your own device and Standards or Curriculum Materials
for Planning
Description:
Making Grade
Level Content Accessible, Memorable, and Meaningful for K-5
Multilingual Learners
This workshop will cover the fundamentals of second language acquisition and provide an overview of multilingual learners in Western North Carolina. It will include a review of best practices, along with an explanation of why these approaches are effective, supported by relevant brain research.
Participants will be introduced to specific instructional strategies and will have dedicated time and support to develop lessons and activities aligned to grade-level content.
Participants are asked to bring standards or curriculum materials for planning, a fully charged device, and a colleague. If possible, ACCESS scores for the multilingual learners they serve should also be brought. While all teachers are welcome, the session focuses on strategies general education teachers can use when delivering content.
Participants will leave with:

An understanding of multilingual learners
Knowledge of effective instructional practices and the rationale behind them
Awareness of how targeted strategies are developed and implemented
Classroom-ready plans and materials

Presenter:
Simone Wertenberger serves as the Director of ESL, Migrant Education, and World/Dual Language for Henderson County Public Schools. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, Psychology, and Education from Kalamazoo College in 2000, followed by a Master’s degree in Social and Cultural Foundations of Education and Human Development from DePaul University in 2004. Wertenberger has been a National Board Certified Teacher in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages since 2009 and is an OCDE Project GLAD® (Guided Language Acquisition Design) Certified Agency Trainer. Her professional background includes extensive K–12 classroom teaching experience, as well as both school-based and district-level administrative leadership.
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

Unlocking Learning for Secondary Multilingual Learners
2026-12-09 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: December 9, 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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: Secondary Classroom Teachers and Instructional Coaches
What to bring?: Your own device and Standards or Curriculum Materials
for Planning
Description:
Making Grade
Level Content Accessible, Memorable, and Meaningful for Secondary
Multilingual Learners
This workshop will cover the fundamentals of second language acquisition and provide an overview of multilingual learners in Western North Carolina. It will include a review of best practices, along with an explanation of why these approaches are effective, supported by relevant brain research.
Participants will be introduced to specific instructional strategies and will have dedicated time and support to develop lessons and activities aligned to grade-level content.
Participants are asked to bring standards or curriculum materials for planning, a fully charged device, and a colleague. If possible, ACCESS scores for the multilingual learners they serve should also be brought. While all teachers are welcome, the session focuses on strategies general education teachers can use when delivering content.
Participants will leave with:

An understanding of multilingual learners
Knowledge of effective instructional practices and the rationale behind them
Awareness of how targeted strategies are developed and implemented
Classroom-ready plans and materials

Presenter:
Simone Wertenberger serves as the Director of ESL, Migrant Education, and World/Dual Language for Henderson County Public Schools. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, Psychology, and Education from Kalamazoo College in 2000, followed by a Master’s degree in Social and Cultural Foundations of Education and Human Development from DePaul University in 2004. Wertenberger has been a National Board Certified Teacher in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages since 2009 and is an OCDE Project GLAD® (Guided Language Acquisition Design) Certified Agency Trainer. Her professional background includes extensive K–12 classroom teaching experience, as well as both school-based and district-level administrative leadership.
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

Managing Big Emotions: Strategies for Academic Focus (Grades 4 - 7)
2027-01-13 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: January 13, 2027
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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: Grades 4-7 Educators, Coaches, and Administrators
What to bring?: Your own device

Description:
This one-day workshop provides teachers with actionable methods for aiding elementary and intermediate learners (grades 4–7) across general and special education settings. The session focuses on overcoming hurdles that arise when heightened emotions disrupt a student’s ability to concentrate on academics. Attendees will investigate forward-thinking approaches, such as emotional regulation strategies, sequential problem-solving, visual aids, and executive function development, to empower students in balancing their school and home life.
Presenter:
Serving the K-12 population of Buncombe County Schools in Asheville, North Carolina, Marlou DeVera brings over three decades of professional experience within educational environments.
In her capacity as an autism and behavior specialist, she provides coaching and professional development for educators, focusing on proactive classroom programming and emotional regulation. Furthermore, she organizes and leads social skills groups for K-12 learners with diverse needs, partnering with therapists and special education and general education faculty.
Her extensive background includes previous roles as an exceptional children’s curriculum specialist and an intensive intervention teacher for middle school students on the spectrum. She also served as the director for a program facilitating the mainstreaming of K-12 students with high-functioning autism.
Marlou is recognized as a TEACCH Advanced Consultant through UNC-Chapel Hill and has completed clinical studies with Social Thinking in San Jose. She earned her Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of the Philippines.
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

Shaping School Culture...One Conversation at a Time
2027-01-28 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: January 28, 2027
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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 45 Participants
Audience: K-12 Administrators and Aspiring Administrators
What to bring?: Your own device

How Great Leaders Build Trust, Accountability, and High Expectations Through Everyday
Conversations
Description:
Have you ever wondered why some schools naturally develop a positive, high-performing
culture while others struggle with conflict, inconsistency, and low morale? Or have you ever
walked away from a difficult conversation with an employee wondering, “Did I handle that the
right way?”
The reality is that school culture isn’t built through programs, slogans, or initiatives. It is shaped
by the conversations leaders have every day. Every interaction either strengthens trust,
reinforces expectations, or weakens the culture you’re trying to create.
In this interactive, full-day workshop, school leaders will discover practical strategies for creating
a culture where relationships matter, accountability is embraced, and teaching and learning
thrive. Participants will explore the Core Four of Leadership—Judgment, Relationships, Work
Ethic, and Integrity—and learn how those leadership qualities are brought to life through the
Five C’s of Sustainable School Culture: Communication, Consistency, Collaboration,
Commitment, and Compassion.
Throughout the day, participants will engage in realistic leadership scenarios, practice
navigating challenging conversations, and learn how to use artificial intelligence as a leadership
coach to prepare for difficult discussions, strengthen communication, and become more
reflective, confident leaders.
Participants will leave with practical conversation frameworks, AI-powered leadership tools, and
strategies they can immediately apply to shape a stronger school culture—one conversation at
a time.
Presenter BIO:
Scott Rhodes – Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources with Henderson County Public Schools
Mr. Rhodes is starting his 34th year in public education. He has served in Henderson County as
a teacher, coach, assistant principal, middle and high school principal, and now 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.
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

Facilitating Number Sense Routines Badge 3
2027-02-04 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: February 4, 2027
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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

CEUs: 5 Contact Hours
Limit: 25 Participants
Audience: Teachers and Math Coaches, Grades 6 - Math 1
Bring: Your Own Charged Device

Description: This session will focus on research-based number sense routines that support students’ reasoning skills. Join us as we explore routines that build an understanding of number properties, contribute to fluency, and support math discussion.
Presenter: Emily Myers – Senior Math Specialist, NCCAT
***IMPORTANT NOTE: Join us as we explore strategies that allow all students to thrive and grow into successful mathematicians who ask questions, engage in math discourse, and think critically. This program is intended for teachers in grades 6 through Math 1 and is part of a 4-day NCCAT badge series for secondary math. WRESA participants can take any number of the sessions; however, all four sessions must be completed to earn the NCCAT Math Badge. Below are the dates and the topics of the four sessions of the Secondary Math Badge series:

Sept. 30, 2026 – Core Math Instruction Models and Practices

Nov. 5, 2026 – Hands-On Math Learning for Middle Grades

Feb. 4, 2027 – Facilitating Number Sense Routines

Mar. 11, 2027 –Authentic Problem-Solving in Middle Grades

You must sign up and pay the fee for each session individually.
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

Comprehension for Secondary Teachers (Part 3)
2027-02-11 09:00 - 15:00 | WRESA, 200 Ridgefield Ct, Suite 206, Asheville, NC, 28806, United States
Date: February 11, 2027
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. If you need to change the
name of the person attending, send an email to registrations@wresa.org
with the information of the person who will attend in your place.

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 24, 2026 – An Overview of the Science of Reading for Secondary Teachers
Oct 28, 2026 – Vocabulary for Secondary Teachers
Feb 11, 2027 – Comprehension for Secondary Teachers
Mar 10, 2027 – Authentic Problem-Solving in Middle Grades

***NOTE – You must sign up and pay the fee for each session individually.
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
