Teachers have one of the most influential jobs on the planet. Whether you are a lawyer, doctor, health care worker or even a president, every one of us needed a teacher who believed in us. The keynote reminds us that teachers create lifelong interactions that stay with students for the rest of their lives. Teachers matter.
Limited Capacityfull Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
Dealing with intense behavior requires more than just patience; it requires a plan. This session will provide practical strategies and compassionate approaches for working with autistic and emotionally disabled students who may exhibit intense behaviors. This guide provides evidence-based techniques to help every student thrive. Participants will walk away understanding students needs, redirection... See More →
Want to spot FRICTION points and reduce STRESS before either occurs? Discover a powerful new digital tool with CORE-Recon and experience how we use technology to strengthen real-time human connection. Learn how to quickly assess how you show up, anticipate friction, and adjust communication in the moment to build trust and reduce conflict. Walk away understanding there is a way to improve everyday... See More →
Discover how storybooks can lead to fun, hands-on science and building activities. Learn ways to use open-ended play to spark creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving in young children. Explore ideas that support STEM learning through books, play, and developmentally appropriate practices you can use right away in your classroom.
Early Learning Specialist, Education Service Center Region 9
Christi Luig is an Early Learning Specialist at Region 9 Education Service Center, where she supports Prekindergarten and Early Childhood Special Education programs across 37 districts. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Christi has served as a Head Start... Read More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT Kids Zone
Combine imagination, sensory play, and self-expression, with no “right” way to make art. Just curious minds, messy fun, and lots of smiles as books and creativity come together in the most magical way!
Limited Capacityfull Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
Turn the TEA Rubric of Effective Practices into your new favorite toolkit! Join us for a high-energy session designed to transform technical standards into everyday classroom wins. We’re stripping away the jargon to focus on what matters most: simple environment tweaks, stress-free engagement, and a hands-on 'Make-&-Take' sensory bottle workshop. Whether you teach General Ed, Special Ed, or a... See More →
Crista Mitchel is an Educational Consultant for Special Populations at Region 18 Education Service Center. Prior to joining Region 18, Crista served as a case manager for Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) and spent ten years in Ector County ISD, where she worked as a special education... Read More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT Room 345/346
Get ready to move, groove, and sign! In this high-energy, hands-on professional development session, PreK teachers will learn how to incorporate functional American Sign Language (ASL) into their daily classroom routines using music and instructional vocabulary. Designed specifically for early childhood educators, this session blends rhythm, repetition, and real-world classroom language to make... See More →
I have been an educator for 38 years. As a Speech Language Pathologist, I have served in a variety of capacities, including public schools, private therapy as well as Early Childhood Intervention (ECI). As a school leader, I worked as a Site Facilitator, and Administrator in early c... Read More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT Suite 9
This session offers realistic, practical wellness strategies designed for the busy world of preschool teaching. Learn simple ways to manage stress, protect your energy, and build sustainable self-care habits that actually fit into your workday. Because caring for yourself is essential to caring for children.
Sherri Heiting has been in the field of education for 20 years and currently serves as Educational Consultant for Counseling Services and T4 Mental/Behavior Health. Before joining Region 18, she served as an elementary teacher, elementary counselor, and her last assignment with MISD... Read More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT Worship Center
Curious about AI but think it’s just for tech giants and robots? Think again! This isn't about teaching kids with a screen, it's about giving YOU your Sunday nights back. In this fast-paced, 75-minute "Power Hour," we’re diving into the magic of AI tools. We will explore:Gemini: Your new AI personal assistant for newsletters and lesson ideas.Suno: The magic wand that turns your... See More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT Suite 6
Limited Capacityfull Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
Dealing with intense behavior requires more than just patience; it requires a plan. This session will provide practical strategies and compassionate approaches for working with autistic and emotionally disabled students who may exhibit intense behaviors. This guide provides evidence-based techniques to help every student thrive. Participants will walk away understanding students needs, redirection... See More →
Want to spot FRICTION points and reduce STRESS before either occurs? Discover a powerful new digital tool with CORE-Recon and experience how we use technology to strengthen real-time human connection. Learn how to quickly assess how you show up, anticipate friction, and adjust communication in the moment to build trust and reduce conflict. Walk away understanding there is a way to improve everyday... See More →
Discover how storybooks can lead to fun, hands-on science and building activities. Learn ways to use open-ended play to spark creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving in young children. Explore ideas that support STEM learning through books, play, and developmentally appropriate practices you can use right away in your classroom.
Early Learning Specialist, Education Service Center Region 9
Christi Luig is an Early Learning Specialist at Region 9 Education Service Center, where she supports Prekindergarten and Early Childhood Special Education programs across 37 districts. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Christi has served as a Head Start... Read More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT Kids Zone
Limited Capacityfull Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
Combine imagination, sensory play, and self-expression, with no “right” way to make art. Just curious minds, messy fun, and lots of smiles as books and creativity come together in the most magical way!
Turn the TEA Rubric of Effective Practices into your new favorite toolkit! Join us for a high-energy session designed to transform technical standards into everyday classroom wins. We’re stripping away the jargon to focus on what matters most: simple environment tweaks, stress-free engagement, and a hands-on 'Make-&-Take' sensory bottle workshop. Whether you teach General Ed, Special Ed, or a... See More →
Crista Mitchel is an Educational Consultant for Special Populations at Region 18 Education Service Center. Prior to joining Region 18, Crista served as a case manager for Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) and spent ten years in Ector County ISD, where she worked as a special education... Read More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT Room 345/346
Get ready to move, groove, and sign! In this high-energy, hands-on professional development session, PreK teachers will learn how to incorporate functional American Sign Language (ASL) into their daily classroom routines using music and instructional vocabulary. Designed specifically for early childhood educators, this session blends rhythm, repetition, and real-world classroom language to make... See More →
I have been an educator for 38 years. As a Speech Language Pathologist, I have served in a variety of capacities, including public schools, private therapy as well as Early Childhood Intervention (ECI). As a school leader, I worked as a Site Facilitator, and Administrator in early c... Read More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT Suite 9
This session offers realistic, practical wellness strategies designed for the busy world of preschool teaching. Learn simple ways to manage stress, protect your energy, and build sustainable self-care habits that actually fit into your workday. Because caring for yourself is essential to caring for children.
Sherri Heiting has been in the field of education for 20 years and currently serves as Educational Consultant for Counseling Services and T4 Mental/Behavior Health. Before joining Region 18, she served as an elementary teacher, elementary counselor, and her last assignment with MISD... Read More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT Worship Center
Curious about AI but think it’s just for tech giants and robots? Think again! This isn't about teaching kids with a screen, it's about giving YOU your Sunday nights back. In this fast-paced, 75-minute "Power Hour," we’re diving into the magic of AI tools. We will explore:Gemini: Your new AI personal assistant for newsletters and lesson ideas.Suno: The magic wand that turns your... See More →
ECSE consultant, Education Service Center Region 14
Suzanne McGuire has spent her career supporting young children, families, and the educators who serve them. As an Early Childhood Special Education Consultant, she is passionate about play, meaningful learning experiences, and helping teachers feel confident in their work. Suzanne... Read More →
Wednesday July 8, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT Suite 6
That's right! ATYC is taking YOU out to the ball game! Join your ATYC friends as we cheer on the Midland Rockhounds! 6:30 p.m. Momentum Bank Ballpark 5514 Champions Drive Midland, TX. 79706 Please click onRSVP HERE! to let us know whether or not you will be able to attend so we are sure to purchase the right amount of tickets.
Wednesday July 8, 2026 6:30pm - 8:00pm CDT Momentum Bank Ballpark5514 Champions Drive Midland, TX. 79706
This session is designed for paraprofessionals and teachers committed to fostering supportive, collaborative classrooms. We will explore clearly defined roles and responsibilities, legal and ethical considerations, and evidence-based instructional strategies to meet each student’s unique needs.
Leadership/Special Education Support, Region 18 ESC
My background includes special education, campus/district administration, and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). I enjoy sports, theatre, volunteer work, and having fun. Talk to me about any of this and more!
Thursday July 9, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am CDT Suite 9
Using the ESC-20 ECSE Framework as our guide, we will explore key strategies to elevate your program's effectiveness. The goal is to empower leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to better support teachers and paraprofessionals. By equipping leadership with a deep understanding of best practices, you can foster a culture of excellence that ultimately leads to improved outcomes for all... See More →
ECSE Consultant, Education Service Center, Region 20
Sarah Cave is an Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) consultant at Education Service Center, Region 20 in San Antonio, Texas. For over 40 years, she has served the early childhood community as a passionate advocate for all young children and their families, with a focus on inclusive... Read More →
ECSE Consultant, Education Service Center, Region 20
Diana Glass is an Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) consultant at Education Service Center, Region 20 in San Antonio, Texas. Diana's career began as a classroom teacher, where she taught Pre-K to 1st grade, as well as 3rd grade, and developed a deep passion for supporting... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am CDT Room 347/348
When behavior becomes challenging, we often find ourselves asking, “Why?” Behaviors are what we see on the outside to alert us that something is happening inside. Gaining insight into what motivates each person is the key to developing meaningful relationships that help us decode behavior and create positive, impactful learning environments.In this session, participants will explore methods of... See More →
Writing is so much more than handwriting, and yes--your students CAN write! Come learn strategies to increase vocabulary, phonological awareness, alphabet knowledge as well as fine motor skills too!
In 2026 almost every classroom encounters children who may have difficult or unorthodox behaviors that can be difficult to manage, including biting or spitting. These situations can be difficult to deal with and even have you questioning your ability as a teacher. It’s hard to maintain your sense of calmness in situations like these. There is absolutely a difference between difficult behavior... See More →
Developing bodies need movement while learning! Explore intentional, developmentally appropriate movement that supports brain development, self-regulation, attention, and engagement. Experience simple, cross-curricular gross and fine motor activities that provide classroom-ready strategies you can embed throughout the day. Perfect for Pre-K teachers seeking playful, purposeful, usable ideas.
I am the Early Childhood Specialist for ESC Region 15, and I have been in education for 26 years. ALL of my educational career has been in early childhood. I have been on the ATYC Committee for 8 years, and I love it! We have such a passion for early childhood educators, and... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am CDT Suite 1/4
Young children learn best when instruction meets them where they are. This professional development session focuses on differentiating content, process, materials, and learning environments for 3- and 4-year-old special education Pre-K students. Educators will explore practical strategies such as visual supports, hands-on learning centers, flexible grouping, skill scaffolding, and offering... See More →
Limited Capacityfull Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
Executive functions like working memory, impulse control, emotional regulation, and cognitive flexibility don’t emerge through compliance, they grow through safe relationships, movement, play, and repetition. In the early years, the brain’s “control center” is under construction, and every game of freeze dance, pretend play, turn-taking, and silly problem-solving is literally building the... See More →
Hi, I’m Layne Pethick, a Brain Nerd with a Passport, decoding why humans do what they do. Texas-based behavior and autism consultant, educator, and speaker with 30+ years’ experience. I translate neuroscience into practical, human-centered strategies for learning, behavior, and... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 9:00am - 10:15am CDT Worship Center
This session is designed for paraprofessionals and teachers committed to fostering supportive, collaborative classrooms. We will explore clearly defined roles and responsibilities, legal and ethical considerations, and evidence-based instructional strategies to meet each student’s unique needs.
Leadership/Special Education Support, Region 18 ESC
My background includes special education, campus/district administration, and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). I enjoy sports, theatre, volunteer work, and having fun. Talk to me about any of this and more!
Thursday July 9, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT Suite 9
Using the ESC-20 ECSE Framework as our guide, we will explore key strategies to elevate your program's effectiveness. The goal is to empower leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to better support teachers and paraprofessionals. By equipping leadership with a deep understanding of best practices, you can foster a culture of excellence that ultimately leads to improved outcomes for all... See More →
ECSE Consultant, Education Service Center, Region 20
Sarah Cave is an Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) consultant at Education Service Center, Region 20 in San Antonio, Texas. For over 40 years, she has served the early childhood community as a passionate advocate for all young children and their families, with a focus on inclusive... Read More →
ECSE Consultant, Education Service Center, Region 20
Diana Glass is an Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) consultant at Education Service Center, Region 20 in San Antonio, Texas. Diana's career began as a classroom teacher, where she taught Pre-K to 1st grade, as well as 3rd grade, and developed a deep passion for supporting... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT Room 347/348
When behavior becomes challenging, we often find ourselves asking, “Why?” Behaviors are what we see on the outside to alert us that something is happening inside. Gaining insight into what motivates each person is the key to developing meaningful relationships that help us decode behavior and create positive, impactful learning environments.In this session, participants will explore methods of... See More →
Writing is so much more than handwriting, and yes--your students CAN write! Come learn strategies to increase vocabulary, phonological awareness, alphabet knowledge as well as fine motor skills too!
In 2026 almost every classroom encounters children who may have difficult or unorthodox behaviors that can be difficult to manage, including biting or spitting. These situations can be difficult to deal with and even have you questioning your ability as a teacher. It’s hard to maintain your sense of calmness in situations like these. There is absolutely a difference between difficult behavior... See More →
Developing bodies need movement while learning! Explore intentional, developmentally appropriate movement that supports brain development, self-regulation, attention, and engagement. Experience simple, cross-curricular gross and fine motor activities that provide classroom-ready strategies you can embed throughout the day. Perfect for Pre-K teachers seeking playful, purposeful, usable ideas.
I am the Early Childhood Specialist for ESC Region 15, and I have been in education for 26 years. ALL of my educational career has been in early childhood. I have been on the ATYC Committee for 8 years, and I love it! We have such a passion for early childhood educators, and... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT Suite 1/4
Young children learn best when instruction meets them where they are. This professional development session focuses on differentiating content, process, materials, and learning environments for 3- and 4-year-old special education Pre-K students. Educators will explore practical strategies such as visual supports, hands-on learning centers, flexible grouping, skill scaffolding, and offering... See More →
Limited Capacityfull Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
Executive functions like working memory, impulse control, emotional regulation, and cognitive flexibility don’t emerge through compliance, they grow through safe relationships, movement, play, and repetition. In the early years, the brain’s “control center” is under construction, and every game of freeze dance, pretend play, turn-taking, and silly problem-solving is literally building the... See More →
Hi, I’m Layne Pethick, a Brain Nerd with a Passport, decoding why humans do what they do. Texas-based behavior and autism consultant, educator, and speaker with 30+ years’ experience. I translate neuroscience into practical, human-centered strategies for learning, behavior, and... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 10:45am - 12:00pm CDT Worship Center
Learn intentional classroom strategies to support young children to manage emotions, solve conflicts, and work together. This session shares practical tools including social stories, puppets, and literacy that can be implemented immediately.
Early Learning Specialist, Education Service Center Region 9
Christi Luig is an Early Learning Specialist at Region 9 Education Service Center, where she supports Prekindergarten and Early Childhood Special Education programs across 37 districts. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Christi has served as a Head Start... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT Kids Zone
The Childcare industry changes every day. As the laws change regarding the governing of your facility and the classroom, we will look at ways to evaluate and implement these changes into your facility. Change is hard, but it is extremely necessary. Sometimes staff does not respond well to change, but we can help give your staff the tools to learn how to embrace change.
Limited Capacityfull Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
We will learn strategies and explore the use of manipulatives to make math concepts visible and engaging for young learners. We will focus on the importance of a playful and engaging approach to foster a love for math in early learners.
Behavior issues in the classroom can feel like a never-ending cycle that frustrates teachers and overwhelms school resources. This powerful breakout session is designed to help educators break free from the cycle of conflict and stress. By understanding how the brain’s natural protective powers shape both student and staff interaction, participants will learn how to spot potential reactions,... See More →
This session introduces trauma-informed practices tailored for early childhood settings. Educators will learn how trauma can affect young children’s brains, behavior, and learning—and explore practical strategies to create safe, supportive classrooms that foster healing, connection, and resilience in early learners.
Sherri Heiting has been in the field of education for 20 years and currently serves as Educational Consultant for Counseling Services and T4 Mental/Behavior Health. Before joining Region 18, she served as an elementary teacher, elementary counselor, and her last assignment with MISD... Read More →
Unlock the power of play to support meaningful communication! In this session, special educators will explore fun and practical ways to engage students using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in play centers. Participants will learn how to create play environments that encourage all students to express themselves, build social connections, and develop language skills. Whether you're... See More →
Limited Capacityfull Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
This session concept is basically professional development meets playground neuroscience!You’ll jump into playful games, movement challenges, and simple activities designed to do what young brains need most: build executive function, regulation, attention, flexibility, and social problem-solving. Every game we play connects directly to the developing young brain, showing how play isn’t... See More →
Hi, I’m Layne Pethick, a Brain Nerd with a Passport, decoding why humans do what they do. Texas-based behavior and autism consultant, educator, and speaker with 30+ years’ experience. I translate neuroscience into practical, human-centered strategies for learning, behavior, and... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 1:30pm - 2:45pm CDT Worship Center
Early learners thrive when instruction is clear, visual, engaging, and individualized— but creating those materials can feel overwhelming and time-consuming! In this session, educators will explore how digital tools (like Canva, ChatGPT, Adobe Firefly, and Gemini) can simplify the process of designing visuals, presentations, and learning supports for early learners. Whether you’re a classroom... See More →
Learn intentional classroom strategies to support young children to manage emotions, solve conflicts, and work together. This session shares practical tools including social stories, puppets, and literacy that can be implemented immediately.
Early Learning Specialist, Education Service Center Region 9
Christi Luig is an Early Learning Specialist at Region 9 Education Service Center, where she supports Prekindergarten and Early Childhood Special Education programs across 37 districts. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, Christi has served as a Head Start... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT Kids Zone
The Childcare industry changes every day. As the laws change regarding the governing of your facility and the classroom, we will look at ways to evaluate and implement these changes into your facility. Change is hard, but it is extremely necessary. Sometimes staff does not respond well to change, but we can help give your staff the tools to learn how to embrace change.
We will learn strategies and explore the use of manipulatives to make math concepts visible and engaging for young learners. We will focus on the importance of a playful and engaging approach to foster a love for math in early learners.
Behavior issues in the classroom can feel like a never-ending cycle that frustrates teachers and overwhelms school resources. This powerful breakout session is designed to help educators break free from the cycle of conflict and stress. By understanding how the brain’s natural protective powers shape both student and staff interaction, participants will learn how to spot potential reactions,... See More →
This session introduces trauma-informed practices tailored for early childhood settings. Educators will learn how trauma can affect young children’s brains, behavior, and learning—and explore practical strategies to create safe, supportive classrooms that foster healing, connection, and resilience in early learners.
Sherri Heiting has been in the field of education for 20 years and currently serves as Educational Consultant for Counseling Services and T4 Mental/Behavior Health. Before joining Region 18, she served as an elementary teacher, elementary counselor, and her last assignment with MISD... Read More →
Unlock the power of play to support meaningful communication! In this session, special educators will explore fun and practical ways to engage students using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in play centers. Participants will learn how to create play environments that encourage all students to express themselves, build social connections, and develop language skills. Whether you're... See More →
Limited Capacityfull Adding this to your schedule will put you on the waitlist.
This session concept is basically professional development meets playground neuroscience!You’ll jump into playful games, movement challenges, and simple activities designed to do what young brains need most: build executive function, regulation, attention, flexibility, and social problem-solving. Every game we play connects directly to the developing young brain, showing how play isn’t... See More →
Hi, I’m Layne Pethick, a Brain Nerd with a Passport, decoding why humans do what they do. Texas-based behavior and autism consultant, educator, and speaker with 30+ years’ experience. I translate neuroscience into practical, human-centered strategies for learning, behavior, and... Read More →
Thursday July 9, 2026 3:15pm - 4:30pm CDT Worship Center
Early learners thrive when instruction is clear, visual, engaging, and individualized— but creating those materials can feel overwhelming and time-consuming! In this session, educators will explore how digital tools (like Canva, ChatGPT, Adobe Firefly, and Gemini) can simplify the process of designing visuals, presentations, and learning supports for early learners. Whether you’re a classroom... See More →
There is science behind laughter, and this veteran stand up comedian has mastered it. Now, imagine being able to bottle that energy, positivity and feel-good vibe that you get from a comedy show, and channel it into your classroom, workplace or everyday life. It’s easier than you think. Devin delivers a comedy-filled message that puts the power of the punchline into the hands of the staff in a... See More →
