Success: The Finger Trap Method – Keeping students engaged all the way through from beginning to end can be a challenge. Let’s be realistic, keeping ourselves engaged can be a challenge. Just think about it for a moment. Can we really go the same distance on 5.00 of gas that we can on 30.00? Well of course not, but how do we refill? Our success depends on our fuel staying on "F" at all times. One must want success in their endeavors more than they want to breath! I know this sounds easier said than done, but guess what? It is easy. I have created a simple regimen that, if followed, will create a successful life. It will increase the possibilities of venturing into our designed purpose.

Refueling Your Students’ Educational Passion – In this session, Alena will share how she refuels her students' passion to learn. Explore different ways to bring fun to the classroom - dressing up as different characters, playing games, and serving up an edible bacteria buffet to help students learn the bacteria shapes. Or, have students explore items in the school to look at under a children's microscope (a wet towel? YUCK). And finally, learn how a personalized book for each student is a special gift at the end of the school year – or at the end of a rough day.

Creating Positive Learning Environments with Social Contracts – In this interactive session, participants will be working in small groups to develop social contracts that redirect conflict, celebrate the diversity of students and build a strong sense of teamwork and professionalism in the classroom. Participants will learn how to display their contract and to create student ownership throughout the year. This session will mimic the lesson the participants can take back and use in their own classrooms immediately after the conference, altering the learning environment in your school.