Learning Partner Sessions

How Leading Schools Are Using Communication to Build Trust and a Competitive Edge

When a parent hears big news from another parent, trust erodes; even if the school sent an update. In this session, leaders will explore how to move from pushing information to designing communication experiences that build clarity, trust, and confidence. We’ll examine how leading schools across Asia and the Middle East are embedding communication into broader retention and reputation strategies.

SAM COWLEY has spent over a decade supporting schools across Asia and the Middle East through technology-led change. With deep experience in education software and insight into international school dynamics, he brings a region-wide lens to leadership and communication challenges. sam.cowley@schoolbox.education, schoolbox.education, LinkedIn

A former school leader with 20+ years’ experience across Asia and Australia, CHRIS BARR helps schools embed communication as a strategic driver of trust, retention, and reputation, connecting learning, wellbeing, and family engagement. chris.barr@schoolbox.education

Play. Learn. Understand AI: Turing Trials for Engaged Staff and Students

Want to increase AI Literacy at your school? Want to find a fun and interactive way to have discussions about the benefits, risks and issues associated with using AI in education? Join 9ine for this interactive session where we play Turing Trials, our fun and engaging workshop-style card game that can be played with staff and students. You will also learn how you can access the game, and other resources (for free) and how you can take this back to your school to play.

EMMA CRADOCK is a recognised expert in Artificial Intelligence and Data Protection and Privacy compliance, with extensive experience spanning both academic research and practical implementation. Over the course of more than a decade working in data protection and privacy, she earned her PhD from the University of Southampton, jointly undertaken in the departments of Computer Science and Law.emma.cradock@9ine.com, 9ine.com

Data-Driven Renewals: Insights for HR and Finance Leaders

Understanding your claims data is more than just a numbers exercise – it’s a critical tool in shaping the future of your school's medical insurance strategy. In this session, we’ll explore why accessing and actively using your claims data is essential for more accurate and sustainable renewal projections. You’ll gain valuable insights into how this information can empower better decision-making, control costs, and ensure long-term plan stability for your staff and institution.

PIERRE DE MIRMAN, originally from France and a graduate of Pepperdine University in the USA, joined Pacific Prime in 2010 and has held leadership roles in Shanghai and Hong Kong before becoming Global Managing Director in 2024 based in Dubai. He oversees a team of 1,000 managing over USD 1 billion in insurance premiums and supporting 400+ international schools and school groups worldwide. Pacific Prime is a global leader in insurance and employee benefits, known for impartial advice, value-added services, and innovative technology solutions, including our latest platform for Flexible Benefits. pierre@pacificprime.com, pacificprime.com

NWEA MAP Data to Impact: Updates & Tools to Support Student Growth

This session provides key updates on NWEA MAP assessments, including a preview of Norms 2025 and enhancements designed to better support teaching and learning. Discover how to go beyond assessment by integrating tools like MAP Reading Fluency, Coach, and other instructional resources to personalize learning paths, inform targeted instruction, and improve outcomes. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, or data specialist, you'll gain actionable insights to help students grow and thrive across all grade levels and learning environments.

MOHAMED ELLEATHY is a Senior Account Manager and data consultant at NWEA. With nearly two decades of experience in education, he brings deep expertise in assessment data and strategic school improvement. Mohamed is passionate about empowering educators to use MAP Growth and MAP Reading Fluency to drive meaningful outcomes for students. He thrives on building collaborative relationships with school leaders and educators to support data-informed decision-making and student-centered learning. mohamed.elleathy@nwea.org, nwea.org, LinkedIn

Future Proof Your School by Igniting an Entrepreneurial School Culture

This workshop will demonstrate to school leaders how fostering an entrepreneurial mindset empowers students and teachers to think creatively, act confidently, and adapt to an increasingly unpredictable future. Through real-world case studies, evidence-based research, and interactive activities, participants will explore how to integrate entrepreneurial thinking across all grade levels and subjects. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to inspire bold, purpose-driven learning, overcome resistance to change, and create a school culture that nurtures innovation, collaboration, and lifelong learning for all stakeholders.

Dr. BETH GOLDSTEIN, author and educator, brings 30+ years of experience helping entrepreneurs and school leaders drive innovation. At Babson’s Youth Impact Lab, she designs experiential programs that empower educators to build confident, entrepreneurial changemakers, ready to lead with purpose. bgoldstein@babson.edu, babson.edu/youthimpact, LinkedIn

Confident Conversations: What Great Leaders Do in Interviews – Sharpen Your Edge. Read the Room. Ask What Matters.

This session is designed for leaders at any stage of their career who want to approach interviews with greater impact and intention. We’ll explore how to communicate your leadership story with authenticity, read the dynamics in the room, and respond with agility. You’ll learn how to craft meaningful dialogue, surface what matters most to decision-makers, and bring your full professional self into each conversation so you’re not just answering questions, you’re shaping the discussion..

PAULINE O’BRIEN is Director of Global Recruitment Strategy & Leadership at ISS, where she leads a global team focused on finding and developing leadership talent for international schools. She works in partnership with boards and school leaders to build strong, future-ready leadership through thoughtful recruitment, support, and transition planning. pobrien@iss.edu, iss.edu

AI-Powered Education: The Future of Teaching and Learning

Discover how AI-driven tools can: Personalise Learning - Empower your teachers to design future-ready learning experiences. Create individualised lessons and assessments tailored to each pupil’s unique needs. Reduce Administrative Overload - Free your staff from time-consuming tasks like marking, data tracking, and report generation, so they can focus on what truly matters—teaching. Drive student success using Data - Generate data driven insights that help you track student progress, identify risks, and foster better learning outcomes through actionable analytics.

MICHAEL SHEEHAN is an educator with over 10 years of experience teaching across different curricula. He recently completed his master's degree in educational leadership and focused his thesis on professional development. He believes that technology will continue to play a huge role in shaping the future of education, and is passionate about helping teachers leverage technology to improve student learning. michael.sheehan@toddleapp.com, toddleapp.com, LinkedIn Toddle, LinkedIn Michael

Cultivating Cultures of Growth: Leadership Strategies for Student-Centered Schools

This interactive workshop focuses on enhancing teacher effectiveness and building collaborative, student-centered cultures. Using Hattie’s Visible Learning and collective teacher efficacy as a foundation, participants explore how leaders can shape productive data conversations, model assessment-capable practices, and protect joy and resilience. Through collaborative reflection, protocol practice, and strategy-sharing, leaders leave with a flexible toolkit of high-impact strategies to strengthen teacher practice, foster a student-centered culture, and create the conditions for lasting growth and engagement.

HALEY VanCOX is dedicated to empowering international educators through data-driven instructional practices that foster student engagement and academic success. Since joining Curriculum Associates in 2018, she has been committed to delivering high-quality professional learning, equipping educators with tools and resources to maximize their impact on student learning and streamline their teaching processes.

As a certified facilitator of Brené Brown's work, Haley brings a unique blend of fresh perspectives, deep insights, and a touch of fun to every session she leads. Her dynamic approach ensures that educators leave inspired and equipped to make a meaningful impact in their classrooms. hvancox@cainc.com, curriculumassociates.com, LinkedIn

Practical ideas to grow a culture of giving – regardless of your school’s starting point

CCS has worked with educational institutions in the region for more than 30 years - whether you're just beginning your fundraising journey or considering a major initiative, this session will offer a roadmap for growth. Drawing on diverse experiences with international schools, we’ll explore how to build and strengthen community engagement and prepare for transformational giving.

Participants will learn:

• Examples and stories from other international schools
• Fundraising fundamentals - The core pillars of fundraising
• Practical ways to get started (talk to your board, conduct a feasibility study)

CLAIRE BENS is a Vice President at CCS Fundraising, based in London. She specializes in campaign strategy and has led fundraising initiatives across the U.S., Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Claire partners extensively with international schools, helping build cultures of giving and advancing major funding initiatives. She holds degrees from the London School of Economics (LSE) and Ohio University. cbens@ccsfundraising.com, ccsfundraising.com

Code Red: Safeguarding in the Age of AI - What Every School Leader Must Know

What happens when AI tools land in classrooms before schools are ready to manage the risks? From deepfakes to data breaches, the intersection of AI and safeguarding is an active threat, now more than ever. As students and staff increasingly interact with AI for learning, support, and administration, the potential for harm grows. In this session, we’ll explore how safeguarding must evolve to meet AI’s rapid rise, especially in international schools facing cultural complexities and policy gaps. Drawing from real-world cases, we’ll uncover the practical steps educators must take now to keep communities safe, digitally literate and AI-aware.

RACHEL BODILY is the Co-Founder of Eblana Learning, an organization dedicated to supporting international schools in implementing ethical, sustainable, and pedagogically sound approaches to AI integration. With a strong background in international education and curriculum development, Rachel works closely with school leaders, educators, and policy-makers to translate complex research into practical, values-driven strategies. rachel@eblanalearning.com, eblanalearning.com

CAROL JORDAN is a school consultant at Eblana Learning with over 30 years of international experience in education leadership and curriculum development. Formerly Deputy Head of School at the Canadian International School Singapore, she specializes in supporting schools with ethical AI integration aligned with IB values. Carol is passionate about fostering inclusive communities, restorative practices, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in education. carol@eblanalearning.com

Introducing AP Business with Personal Finance

College Board's newest career course teaches business management and personal financial literacy through entrepreneurial projects and simulated work-based experiences. Come learn more about how the course introduces students to the knowledge and skills they’ll need to grow their careers, manage money, and get a head start toward the most popular college major in the U.S.

Dr. MATTHEW CHOVANEC is the director on the international team for Southwest Asia and North Africa. His responsibilities include building relationships with and planning events for K12 schools, engaging with ministries of education to advocate for policy adoption, and cooperating with regional NGOs and other partners to promote equity and access for students. Before joining the College Board, Matthew received his Ph.D. in Arabic literature from the University of Texas at Austin. mchovanec@collegeboard.org, collegeboard.org

The Anatomy of a Perfect K-12 Tech Plan

Join Robert Cobbs and Kyle Sumrow of Tech My School, a global nonprofit that helps schools across Africa, the U.S., the Caribbean, and the NESA region build high-impact, cost-effective technology plans. In this session, you'll learn how to stop chasing trends, maximize your return on investment, and create a data-driven tech roadmap aligned to your school’s unique vision. Whether refining or rebuilding, walk away with a clear framework to ensure your technology strategy leads to meaningful student outcomes.

ROBERT COBBS, M.Ed., is CEO & Founder of Tech My School and Tech Plan Genie, and author of Tech Centered, Learning Driven. With 20+ years in EdTech leadership, he has served schools across the US, Puerto Rico, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, including leadership roles in Puerto Rico, Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, and California. An experienced technology director, educator, and speaker, Robert now leads initiatives that modernize under-resourced schools while empowering K–12 leaders with AI-driven, future-ready technology planning. info@techmyschool.org, techmyschool.org, X

KYLE SUMROW is the Director of Outreach and Development for Tech My School and brings 15 years of extensive global leadership in EdTech. As a seasoned EdTech Director, Kyle has successfully implemented cutting-edge technology solutions in educational institutions across Cameroon, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, the US, and Vietnam. His experience includes leading various STEM initiatives, facilitating innovative car restoration projects, and playing a pivotal role in advancing Tech My School's mission to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged schools. kylesumrow@techmyschool.org

Learn to Code with a Virtual Co-teacher that Supports Active Learning

Dodona is an online platform that empowers students to learn textual coding interactively by writing code and receiving automated, meaningful feedback. Thanks to the built-in learning analytics and data visualizations, teachers can monitor the progress of students. Designed for students and educators, it streamlines learning and teaching coding in multiple programming languages. Dodona enhances engagement and fosters computational thinking skills. Take a tour of the platform and get set-up to start using Dodona in your school.

CEO and co-founder of Dodona Learning Technologies, MATTHIAS DE WITTE started his career as a corporate finance lawyer at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, before moving to Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, and transitioning to in-house M&A and finance counsel at the Etex Group. He was previously GC, CFO and Partner at Droia Ventures, a specialist biotech venture capital fund. He holds a LL.M from the University of Leuven, and a MSc in law and finance from the University of Oxford and the Saïd Business School. matthias.dewitte@dodona.be, dodona.be

Prof. Dr. PETER DAWYNDT is scientific co-founder of Dodona Learning Technologies. Peter heads the Computational Biology Lab at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Ghent (UGent), Belgium. His research occurs at the intersection of computer science and the life sciences. This cross-fertilization is a potential starting point for fundamental new developments in biology, biotechnology and medicine, but also serves as a source of inspiration for novel developments in computer science.. peter.dawyndt@ugent.be

From Content to Competency: Empowering Deeper Learning Through Curriculum Design

In a world where facts are searchable and knowledge is fluid, the role of curriculum must evolve from delivering content to building competency (skills, mindsets, and values) that prepare students to thrive in complexity. This session invites participants to explore how curriculum design can be reoriented toward deeper learning goals such as critical thinking, collaboration, global citizenship, and adaptability. The session will demonstrate how agile planning principles and competency-based frameworks can support sustainable, impactful curriculum transformation.

PRINCESS LACEWELL holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She has been an educator and school leader for over 10 years in public and private schools in both the United States and internationally. She is an Academic Engagement Consultant, Certified Scrum Master, and Inquiry-Based Learning Advocate with a passion for harnessing the power of agility to unlock innovation, equity, and global impact in education. She provides PD for curriculum, teaching, and learning across the GCC and Europe. princess.lacewell@cengage.com, eltngl.com, LinkedIn

Global and Local: The role of language in designing for student success

Today’s international schools serve changing student populations, challenging school leaders to both meet enrollment targets and meet the school mission. Students come from around the world and, increasingly, from the local community. From admissions to graduation, understanding the role of language is essential in designing for student success. What dispositions, knowledge and skills support leaders in maximizing both English as a medium of instruction and home languages as tools for learning? This interactive session will share current research and best practices.

JON NORDMEYER is the Founding Co-Director of the Multilingual Learning Research Center (MLRC) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Formerly WIDA International Program Director, Jon has been an EAL teacher, coach, consultant and researcher at international schools for over 30 years. jon.nordmeyer@wisc.edu, mlrc.wisc.edu/school-network/, LinkedIn MLRC, LinkedIn Jon

The Mental Health Issue in International Schools

Covid-19 has come and gone. But it has left a lasting impact on mental health utilization among international school faculty and teachers. TieCare International, one of the leading providers of medical benefits for international educators, shares fresh data on the dramatic increase in mental health claims since 2019. This unique presentation also shows the strides TieCare is taking to increase access and lower costs for mental health treatment.

MARK TOMASZEWSKI leads an insurance entity that works with more than 100 international schools in nearly 50 countries. For 40+ years, TieCare has been a worldwide leader in providing employee benefits (medical insurance, life insurance, disability insurance and travel insurance) to the international education community. TieCare has built a bespoke customer service platform by embedding a worldwide team of hands-on representatives within its client base. MarkT@tiecare.com, tiecare.com

From Manual to Magical: Transform School Communication with Automation

With limited time, tight budgets, and growing expectations, schools need to work smarter, not harder. This session explores how email automation can help save time, reduce costs, and improve communication without adding to your team’s workload. You’ll see real-world examples of how schools are using automation to engage families, drive enrollment, and increase retention through timely, personalized messaging. Whether you're looking to streamline operations or make a greater impact, automation offers an efficient path to better results and stronger connections.

As a Sales Consultant in Finalsite's global market, LIZ ALLEN brings 10+ years of marketing and communications experience from schools in the UK and Asia. A former client, she understands international school needs and helps new clients find solutions using the powerful Finalsite platform. elizabeth.allen@finalsite.com, finalsite.com

Leading Personalized Learning Journeys in Math and Science through Inquiry

How do we lead schools where learning is personal, meaningful, and rigorous for all students – including gifted learners? In this session, school leaders will explore how online simulations can serve as adaptive platforms for differentiated instruction. Participants will engage with simulations through a personalized learning lens, examining how inquiry, self-pacing, and depth of thinking can support a diverse range of learners to flourish.

Participants will:

• Understand how online simulations support personalized, inquiry-based learning.
• Explore strategies for differentiation using simulations across ability levels.
• Identify leadership practices that empower teachers to design inclusive and challenging learning experiences.

ExploreLearning empowers schools with innovative math and science programs. As International Director, CYNTHIA BOLTON brings 20+ years in gifted education, STEM, and curriculum design. In Qatar, she led the nation's first gifted program, impacting 3,000+ students through data systems and global partnerships. cynthia.bolton@explorelearning.com, explorelearning, LinkedIn

Teaching in Living Systems: A Practical Introduction to Regenerative Education

From pedagogy to practice, this workshop introduces the fundamentals of regenerative education and how to bring it into your classroom. Regenerative education goes beyond traditional approaches by combining ecological literacy, systems thinking, and design skills to help learners understand the living systems we inhabit. It emphasizes interconnectedness, moving from simply “doing less harm” to actively restoring and enhancing ecological and social systems. Regenerative education nurtures creativity, community, and well-being, providing learners with the capacity to adapt, think holistically, and respond positively to change.

JAMES EDWARDS, M.Sc. is an Regenerative Design practitioner and educator helping schools, organizations, and individuals thrive by applying ecological principles – how nature works – to human systems. In a fast changing world, James’ work centers on fostering adaptability and resilience for his students and partners to contribute to a healthier, more regenerative world. james@jamesmedwards.com, jamesmedwards.com, LinkedIn

Strategic Alignment for Well-Being: What School Leaders Need to Know About Counseling, SEL, and Life Skills

What should school leaders expect from a strong school counseling program – and how can it align with SEL and life skills to build a school of well-being? This interactive session explores the key elements of a comprehensive, preventative counseling program, what counselors should be doing, and how leaders can support and evaluate their impact. You’ll be introduced to the SEL Learning Progression, preview the new ISCA SEL Toolkit, and reflect on how to align current efforts for greater whole-school coherence and impact.

BROOKE FEZLER is the Co-Founder and Co-Director of ISCA. With nearly 20 years in international schools, she co-developed the International Model for School Counseling and leads global efforts to strengthen school counseling, SEL, and student well-being. bfezler@iscainfo.com, iscainfo.com, LinkedIn

Leading with Purpose: Building Inclusive Communities through Doctoral Study

Join us to explore how the Wilkes University Ed.D. program equips U.S. and international educators to lead with purpose, foster belonging, and transform education through systems-level change. Rooted in a mission of inquiry, equity, and innovation, the program empowers scholar-practitioners to create inclusive communities where all individuals feel seen, valued, and connected. This session highlights the program’s global reach, flexible design, and transformational outcomes. Through reflection and dialogue, discover how doctoral study can strengthen your leadership and help you build communities that truly change the world.

Dr. BLAKE MACKESY is a doctoral faculty member and higher education leader with expertise in organizational change, inclusive leadership, and student success. Her research focuses on belonging, equity, and resilience. She is committed to faculty development, academic innovation, and creating inclusive learning environments that support systemic change and a culture of belonging. blake.mackesy@wilkes.edu, wilkes.edu/edd, LinkedIn, Instagram

Dr. TY FREDERICKSON is an Assistant Professor in the Wilkes Ed.D. program with over 20 years of teaching experience, including 11 in international schools. His research centers on leadership identity, social justice, and service learning. He champions global equity through education, advocacy, and community empowerment initiatives in the Middle East and South Asia. ty.frederickson@wilkes.edu

AI Literacy in Education: Are You Ready?

This workshop will explore AI's multifaceted impact on education and how to advocate for its responsible use. We will delve into the practical aspects of AI in the classroom, examining both teacher and student use (or non-use) of AI. Attendees will gain insights into evaluating AI tools and applications, considering factors such as performance, accuracy, data security, ease of use, and system compatibility.

Additionally, we will address the readiness of classrooms and schools to implement AI responsibly and safely, highlighting essential guiding principles and evaluation criteria for AI solutions. You will leave the session with a Responsible AI Rubric for AI Application Evaluation and discover how these principles can help ensure safe and effective AI implementation. This session will provide valuable insights into creating a more efficient, engaging, and secure educational environment through responsible AI integration.

JUSTIN McKEAN is a former educator and current board of directors member at his children's school organization who has worked in the educational technology space for the past 10 years. He is the Director of Global Solution Engineering at PoweSchool and works with schools to maximize student achievement, strengthen parent and community involvement, and create efficiencies using technology. justin.mckean@powerschool.com, powerschool.com, LinkedIn, Instagram

Fixing What Feels Unfixable: Between Runaway Costs and Regional Crises, Faculty Care Can’t Wait

You’re not imagining it – international school health insurance is broken. School leaders are tired of feeling like there’s nothing they can do – exhausted by runaway costs, broken promises, and relentless pressure to protect faculty when duty of care is non-negotiable. Health insurance fatigue is real. This session shares how one school in a high-risk region cut costs by over 30 percent without compromising care, and brings the clarity that comes when you stop trying to manage this alone. For school leaders ready to move beyond short-term fixes and commit to long-term resilience, this session is the blueprint.

MICHAEL PENNINGTON is the Customer Experience Director at One World Cover, a specialist insurance broker for international schools. For over 15 years, he has helped hundreds of schools create healthier environments for faculty – demonstrating that the physical and mental wellbeing of educators is essential to educational excellence. His expertise lies in helping schools deliver outstanding health benefits while maintaining financial sustainability. mpennington@oneworldcover.com, oneworldcover.com

Connected, Informed, Efficient: Operational Innovations Powering International Schools

What does school innovation look like beyond the classroom? This session explores cutting-edge advancements in student information systems, admissions, and school operations that support 21st-century learning environments. We'll examine how thoughtful system design and smarter workflows help schools streamline operations, improve data-driven decisions, and better serve families. Through real-world examples, we’ll explore how technology is reshaping the way international schools lead, connect, and grow.

RICHARD REDIKER, founder and CEO of Rediker Software, is a pioneer in student information systems and school management technology. With over four decades of experience, he has helped thousands of schools worldwide modernize operations and improve education through innovative software solutions. rich@rediker.com, rediker.com

Empowering Schools with AI Agents

Discover how AI Agents can help transform schools by giving leaders, teachers, and administrators on-demand, expert-level guidance. From live insights on student progress to predictive trends in enrollment and finances, AI Agents enable data-driven decisions, optimize operations, and tackle issues proactively, empowering your entire school community to embrace AI in clear, actionable ways.

SOUVIK BOSE is a Divisional Head at BDB with more than a decade of experience in the education domain. He has worked with hundreds of leading international schools, universities and global educational associations in more than 50 countries. Souvik holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Electronics, and a Master of Business Administration degree in Project Management. souvik.bose@bdb.ai, bdb.ai

Child Safeguarding: Risk Assessment

In this workshop, we'll discuss the risks and vulnerabilities of international schools in general, and you will work to identify the risks that might be present in your school. We'll provide you with tools to perform risk assessments with your greater community, including students, and discuss ways to mitigate risks and build a foundation of security, psychological safety, and wellbeing for all.

In 2020, DEBBIE DOWNES joined ICMEC as as a regional trainer, and in 2022, she became Director of Global School Initiatives. She develops and provides child protection training, support, and resources to schools around the world. She has worked in international education for 18 years as an elementary teacher, school principal, and Accreditation and Child Protection Lead for a group of 36 schools. Prior to that, she earned her MSW at UC Berkeley and was a social worker in California. ddownes@icmec.org, icmec.org, LinkedIn

Leading Learning for Impact: How do we lead learning to achieve the Impact we seek?

Facilitating effective learning to ensure that learners attain the competencies and knowledge outlined in guiding statements necessitates a well-defined framework for learning, along with a clear understanding of what constitutes success. Achieving meaningful impact on learners extends beyond the mere delivery of curriculum content. It requires engaging the educational community in a critical dialogue to define high-quality learning and to assess evidence that demonstrates its achievement. Join us to explore how to strengthen impact on learning.

DARLENE FISHER, EdD, has worked for 40+ years in education. Her current work includes accreditation, consulting and coaching for NEASC as a Senior International Accreditation Leader and also with the IB as a Lead Educator and workshop designer. She is the NEASC representative in the development of the Collaborative Learning Protocol – the IB & NEASC evaluation and accreditation protocol that provides a focus on learning while achieving accreditation and evaluation. She has previously worked with teacher training for ECIS and Cambridge (CIE), as well as mentors heads of school and consults on leadership and teacher development across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas. dfisher@neasc.org , neasc.org

Outpace and Outmaneuver with Data Driven Agility: Strategic Risk Mitigation for the Modern International School

This session equips international school leaders to use data-driven strategies for managing evolving risks, from regulatory changes and liability to insurance gaps. Participants will explore frameworks for uncovering exposures, prioritizing mitigation, and building resilience. Practical tools and insights will help schools transition from reactive to strategic risk management, ensuring agile, sustainable solutions in a volatile global environment. Ideal for heads, business managers, risk managers and board members aiming to enhance institutional safety and foresight.

GEORGETTE N. PEREZ, Area Vice President at Gallagher Scholars, brings 18+ years of expertise in risk management and international insurance for schools. A Certified Employee Benefits Specialist (CEBS) via Wharton and a Certified School Risk Manager (CSRM) candidate, she excels in helping international schools navigate complex exposures, regional risks, and develop sustainable, strategic risk solutions. Her deep knowledge of employee benefits, international insurance, and best practices positions her as a trusted partner for institutional resilience and growth. georgette_perez@ajg.com, clements.com/scholars, LinkedIn, Facebook, X

From Deficit- to Strength-Centered Communication for Inclusion & Belonging

This session examines how language shapes school culture, identity, and inclusion for students with disabilities. Participants will explore the shift from a medical to a social model of disability, analyze the impact of ableist language, and gain tools to adopt asset-based terminology. Through examples and reflection, educators will learn to apply inclusive language in policies, classrooms, and communication. Perfect for teachers and leaders ready to promote equity and belonging through the power of words.

APRIL REMFREY has been on the board of SENIA International for the past six years. SENIA is a global non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering educators, families, and professionals who work with neurodivergent individuals and those with disabilities. Through professional development, resource sharing, and community-building, SENIA promotes inclusive practices in international schools and fosters environments where all learners can thrive. april@seniainternational.org, seniainternational.org, LinkedIn, Facebook

Mastering the Future: Lessons from Year One of RAIL

RAIL (Responsible AI in Learning) is the only K-12 implementation framework for AI. We will share case studies and data from 75+ trailblazing schools working on “AI Literacy, Safety, Ethics” and “Essential Learning Experience with AI.” Participants will shift from the dead-end of "integrating AI" to designing powerful learning experiences. Leave with an implementation toolkit.

CHRISTIAN TALBOT leads the Middle States Association, where he has helped to create the world’s only K12 endorsements in AI and Governance. He previously co-founded Juno Strategy + Design, and is past President of Regis (NY) and HOS at Malvern Prep (PA). He incubated Malvern’s Center for Social Impact and founded Expeditionaries, a social entrepreneurship bootcamp. He teaches in the Nonprofit Leadership Program at the University of Pennsylvania and has served on several school boards of trustees. ctalbot@msa-cess.org, msaevolutionlab.com/rail, Threads

(NEW!) Writing as a Road to Comprehension: Shifting Practices and Engaging Students

How do the Science of Reading and the Science of Writing work together? In this session, educators will explore how foundational sentence writing functions as a bridge to reading comprehension. We’ll share practical sentence-level activities and highlight instructional shifts that align with Science of Writing-based instruction. The session emphasizes the interconnectedness of reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

LAURA YOUNG, a literacy specialist at Amplify, spent 24 years as an ELA teacher, coach, and professional development trainer. Laura holds an M.Ed. from Tennessee Tech, Ed.S. coursework, reading and library certifications, and is a recipient of the Humanities Tennessee Award for outstanding teaching. lyoung@amplify.com, amplify.com/programs-international, LinkedIn