Presentations

Dates and times are tentative.

Listings with the symbol have handouts available for download.

Thursday, October 20, 2022 • 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Charter School Funding Through the Florida Education Finance Program

This presentation is an introductory overview of the Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP), which is the primary source of operating funds for all K–12 public schools in Florida. Other topics covered will be the reporting of full-time equivalent (FTE) students, new legislation, class size reduction funding, class size compliance and the charter revenue worksheet.
Business > Finance | Business Managers > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. James Andrews, , Florida Department of Education Office of Funding and Financial Reporting

Literacy Policy and Initiatives to Support Educators with Improving Literacy Achievement

Join the Florida Department of Education literacy staff to discuss and learn about the essential actions that are taking place to improve literacy achievement statewide. This presentation will also include updates on new literacy legislation that enhances and supports our continued focus to improve literacy outcomes for all.
Instruction > Reading | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms. Lindsey Brown, Executive Director of Just Read, Florida!, Florida Department of Education
• Ms. Paige Micheal, Executive Director of State Regional Literacy Directors, Florida Department of Education

What Schools Need to Know: Essential ESE and Student Services Requirements for Charter Schools

This presentation will share how schools can maintain required ESE Compliance with their practices, policies and procedures and addresses emerging concerns resulting from recent state complaint data and Due Process Ordered Action in exceptional student education.
Business > School Operations | School-based Administrators > K-12
Presented by:
• Mrs. Jessica Brattain, Senior Director, Dispute Resolution and Monitoring, Florida Department of Education

There’s an MTR for that!

Join the B.E.S.T. Math team to discuss the Mathematical Thinking and Reasoning Standards (MTRs), and how they can be implemented within ALL classrooms. Learn about the B.E.S.T. Standards for Mathematics and best practices so that soon you’ll be saying “There’s an MTR for that!”.
Instruction > Math | Classroom Teachers > K-12
Presented by:
• Ms. Ashley Harvey, Elementary Math Specialist, Florida Department of Education

Innovation through Classical Education

Classical Education, most influential minds for centuries. As educators, we are challenged to continuously innovate our practices, but perhaps innovating can mean bringing back something tried and true, implementing it using new resources and accommodating for modern challenges.
Leadership > School Leadership | General > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms. Janine Swearingin, Director of Academics, OptimaEd
• Dr. David Withun, Head of School, Jacksonville Classical Academy
• Mrs. Erika Donalds, CEO, Executive Director, OptimaEd

Developing Your School Culture

Principals strive to build a culture that is safe, welcoming, and inspiring to the students and staff who walk through the school’s doors, especially after returning from the pandemic. This school culture can be achieved with a better understanding of your technical and adaptive challenges, and building community amongst students and staff.
Leadership > School Culture & Discipline | General > 5-8 |
Presented by:
• Mr. Damian Rosado, School Principal, Edward W. Bok Academy South
• Ms. Chenia Thate, Administrative Dean, Edward W. Bok Academy South

I Want Their Personal Emails and Texts! Preparing for Public Records Requests in 2022

This presentation is focused on informing participants about their obligations under Florida’s Public Records Act and providing functional tips to prepare charter school operators for public records requests. The presenters will also cover various components that should be covered in each charter school's public records policy.
Business > Legal Issues | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. John Leombruno, Attorney, Arnold Law Firm
• Mr. Braxton Padgett, Attorney, Arnold Law Firm

From Engagement to Empowerment

In this presentation, attendees will learn effective strategies to identify opportunities for family engagement, strengthen current outreach initiatives and build a culture that moves every parent and student toward empowerment and ambassadorship.
Leadership > Community and Parent Involvement | General > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Kassandra Alexander Elekes, Director of Family Engagement and Storytelling, Foundation for Florida's Future

The Art of Artifacts

An artifact is something a student creates that shows they are learning. During the process of students creating and presenting artifacts, a teacher is able to assess student knowledge and growth while clearing up any misconceptions they may have. Students can gain knowledge and skills by creating, reflecting on, and discussing artifacts with peers and teachers. When students create artifacts, it helps them make sense of what they’re working on. It involves active, social learning and can increase student engagement with the learning process. Come "make and take" with us and see how you can easily incorporate artifact ideas into your classroom learning.
Instruction > Social Studies | Classroom Teachers > K-8 |
Presented by:
• Debbie Bagley, Teacher Advocate, Studies Weekly
• David Bagley, Chief Sales Officer, Studies Weekly

Thursday, October 20, 2022 • 1:45 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.

Safety and Security Requirements for Charter Schools

This presentation will focus on Florida's legislative requirements addressing safety and security requirements and how those directly impact charter schools.
Leadership > School Safety & Security | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms. Brooks Rumenik, Deputy Director, Safe Schools, Florida Department of Education

B.E.S.T. ELA Standards Overview and Resources for Effective Implementation

Join us for an overview of the Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking (B.E.S.T.) Standards for English Language Arts (ELA), along with helpful resources to effectively implement the B.E.S.T. ELA Standards. Participants will be introduced to PreK-12 Literacy Instruction Practice Profiles, K-5 School Leader’s Literacy Walkthrough Tool, K-5 Student Center Activities, Parent Guides for B.E.S.T. ELA Standards and more!
Instruction > Reading | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms. Lindsey Brown, Executive Director of Just Read, Florida!, Florida Department of Education
• Ms. Paige Michael, Executive Director of State Regional Literacy Directors, Florida Department of Education

Educator Recruitment Update

This presentation will be focused on educator recruitment efforts. Department staff will provide an update on current initiatives and participants will engage in dialogue focused on successes, challenges and solutions.
Business > Human Resources & Employment | School-based Administrators > K-12
Presented by:
• Ms. Ginnie Whitaker, Senior Program Director, Educator Recruitment & Recognition, Florida Department of Education

Maximizing Your School’s CSP Grant Funding

This presentation guides Charter School Program (CSP) grant subrecipients through required actions that must be completed to maximize a CSP grant award. Subrecipients will also learn how to prepare and submit CSP budget amendments.
Business > School Operations | School-based Administrators > K-12
Presented by:
• Mrs. Vicki Pineda, Charter Schools Director, Office of Independent Education & Parental Choice, Florida Department of Education
• Mr. Horace Taylor, CSP Budget Analyst, Florida Department of Education

Teachers as Facilitators: Engaging All Students in the Process of Learning 

Engaging students in the learning process increases their attention and focus, motivates them to practice higher-level critical thinking skills, and promotes meaningful learning experiences. This interactive presentation provides participants an opportunity to:  Reflect on current instructional practices. Explore approaches that motivate and engage students in deeper learning. Gain new strategies that promote active learning.
Instruction > Classroom Management | Classroom Teachers > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mrs. Rachael Havey, Senior Director, Professional Learning, Cognia
• Ms. Dayna Morales, Principal, Union Park Charter Academy
• Mrs. Yolanda Thomas, Director of Strategy, Charter Schools USA

Beyond Anecdotes: Using Valid and Reliable Data to Show School Success

Using the A-GAME process (Assess—Global accesses, Academics, Mission, and Equity & Engagement), national data and a wealth of materials, participants will reimagine what “Accountability” can mean by learning how to create goals for their school that capture their unique program and mission. Whether for their board members, their parent community, or their Authorizer, the school will understand how to share their program’s impact. This is especially important for schools that are alternative in model or intentionally enroll high percentages of students who are educationally at risk. The goals measure what matters, focusing on mission, engagement, and academics.
Leadership > Strategic Planning | School-based Administrators > |
Presented by:
• Naomi Rubin DeVeaux, Partner, National Charter Schools Institute
• Jenna Hodgens, Chief of Schools, SMART Management

Forge Relationships with Government Leaders

Hear a panel discussion on how to forge and strengthen relationships with government leaders, regardless of political affiliation, at the national, state, local and school board levels. Ensure that government leaders know your school and have factual charter school information so that, if issues arise impacting your school, there is already a line of communication established.
Leadership > Legislative Issues | General > K-12
Presented by:
• Ms. Melissa Gross-Arnold, Shareholder, Arnold Law Firm
• Dr. Alan Hall, CEO, San Jose Schools
• Mr. Ron Rice, Senior Director Government Relations, National Alliance for Public Charter Schools
• Ms. Lesley Veto, CEO, Literacy, Leadership, Technology Academy

Succession Matters! The Time for Succession Planning is Now

Is your school prepared for a change in leadership? The Charter Support Unit has developed a Succession Planning tool to support charter schools through the process. Learn more about developing your leaders from within, communication through leadership change and developing a plan that puts your stakeholders at ease.
Leadership > Strategic Planning | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. Curtis Fuller, Executive Director, Charter Support Unit
• Ms. Kathleen Schoenberg, Attorney & Governance Trainer, Kathleen W. Schoenberg Governance Training
• Mr. Ardonnis Lumpkin, Executive Director, Eagles' Nest Community Charter Schools
• Ms. Christine Mentis, Services Manager, Charter Support Unit

A Guide to Getting Your Finances and Facilities Planning Right

Understand how to assess your school's financial health and create a facilities plan that can ensure your school's future for years to come.
Business > Finance | General > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms. Shannon Falon, Vice President, HJ Sims
• Mr. Scott Sznitken, Executive Director, Franklin Academy
• Mr. Richard Moreno, President, Building Hope Services

Thursday, October 20, 2022 • 3:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.

Literacy Leadership and School Leader’s Literacy Walkthrough, K-5

Schools need leaders to implement an effective school-wide literacy model, but how do you begin? Join us as we discuss key components of an effective literacy leadership, why it matters to students’ and teachers’ success, and how school leaders can drive effective literacy instruction in their schools. In addition, learn about a new School Leader’s Literacy Walkthrough tool! Aligned to Florida’s B.E.S.T. K-5 ELA Standards, this walkthrough tool will help your school’s literacy leadership team observe, reflect, and ensure high quality literacy instruction is happening in your schools.
Leadership > Accountability | School-based Administrators > K-5 |
Presented by:
• Ms. Julie Baisden, Assistant in Research, Florida Center for Reading Research
• Ms. Lindsey Brown, Executive Director of Just Read, Florida!, Florida Department of Education

Transition Guidance

This presentation is an overview of a Transition Guide that has been developed by the CLE in order to better inform and support school development in the area of Transition for students with disabilities.
Leadership > Exceptional Student Education | School-based Administrators > Middle Schools, High Schools, School Districts |
Presented by:
• Stacie Kurtz, , Center for Learner Equity

Let’s Take a Walk: Setting Impactful Look-fors for Classroom Learning Walks that Lead to School Improvement

In this presentation the lead for the FLDOE Bureau of School Improvement's Field Team will discuss how to maximize classroom learning walks through a tight lens of instructional look-fors that will lead to positive change in teacher practice. Participants will be actively engaged in a systemic process of developing school specific look-fors to maximize efficiency and impact of instruction.
Leadership > School Improvement Plans | School-based Administrators > K-12
Presented by:
• Dustin Sims, Lead Executive Director, Bureau of School Improvement, Florida Department of Education

The Path to Success: Refining Your Practice through Continuous Improvement

Engaging in continuous improvement inspires forward-thinking transformational change and new opportunities. Attend this presentation to explore what continuous improvement means and how to strive for continuous improvement at your institution. Hear how AcadeMir Charter Schools, Inc practitioners and Cognia partners embark on the continuous improvement journey.
Leadership > School Leadership | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mrs. Rachael Havey, Senior Director, Professional Learning, Cognia
• Mrs. Susie Bello, Principal, AcadeMir Charter School West
• Mr. Antonio Cejas, Principal, AcadeMir Charter Schools, Inc.

Technology of a Flipped Classroom

Learn how to integrate technology into the classroom that will be beneficial to all students and teachers. We will teach you to integrate technology into the classroom by utilizing the Flipped Classroom model through Google Classroom and EdPuzzle. These programs can be used in all K-12th grade classrooms on any scale (Beginner-Advanced.)
Instruction > Instructional Technology | Classroom Teachers > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mrs. Jamie Woods, Educator, Emma Jewel Charter Academy

Creating a Robust Pipeline of Quality Charter School Principals

In partnership with the Florida Department of Education, the Florida Charter School Alliance created the School Leaders Fellowship to help develop a robust pipeline of effective and visionary charter school leaders interested in leading a school in a high-need area. Supported by a CSP grant, the program uses real-world scenarios to expose participants to charter school operations, budgeting, data analysis, district and community relations, and more. Learn about the program from the Class of 2022 School Leaders Fellows and meet the Class of 2023.
Business > Human Resources & Employment | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. Adam Emerson, Executive Director, Office of Independent Education and Parental Support, Florida Department of Education
• Mr. Cameron Frazier, 2022 School Leaders Fellow, Founder & Principal, Becoming Collegiate Academy, Duval County
• Mrs. Lynn Norman-Tech, Executive Director, Florida Charter School Alliance

Liability Minefields to Avoid

A review of the top liability exposures that can put your school at risk. These exposures could have a significant impact on your school, employees, students, and even future enrollment. We’ll review claims and litigation trends in charter schools as well as proven risk management techniques that will help you avoid liability minefields and mitigate future risks.
Business > Legal Issues | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Brent Grimmel, Senior Vice President, Agency Operations, Egis Insurance & Risk Advisors
• Ismary Cardoso, Vice President, Egis Insurance & Risk Advisors
• Ryan Rupnarain, Manager, Loss Control Services , Florida Insurance Alliance

Facility Development Challenges in Today's Economy 'Post-Covid'

Covid has left a lasting impact on the facility development process for charter schools.  Paul will discuss the current challenges facing the design and construction market and present strategies for mitigating those challenges for a successful building project, no matter how large or small.
Business > Facilities | Governing Board Members > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. Paul Mussman, President, Mussman Architects

Thursday, October 20, 2022 • 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

The Florida College System and Charter Schools

There has been a merging of the Florida College System and charter schools in the past year. More and more colleges are launching their own charter schools, or partnerships with charter schools, while others are considering the new authority colleges and universities have to authorize charter schools. We discuss what’s happened in the last year and look to the implications this has for the charter school sector in Florida.
Authorizing > General | General > K-12
Presented by:
• Mr. Adam Emerson, Executive Director, Office of Independent Education and Parental Support, Florida Department of Education
• Mr. Henry Mack, Senior Chancellor, Florida Department of Education

Everything You Need to Know About CAPE

Whether you are new to CTE or seasoned, this session will provide all you need to know about Florida’s Career and Professional Education Act (aka CAPE Act), including major program and funding components, as well as information on accurate data reporting and test administration requirements.
Business > School Operations | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mrs. Kaitlin Vickers, CAPE Industry Certification Manager, Florida Department of Education

Solving the Mystery of STEM

Join the FDOE STEM Team to experience STEM and understand the power of a question when engaging students in learning. Learn how to embed Florida’s state academic standards within STEM experiences, both in the classroom and in extra-curricular activities.
Instruction > General | Classroom Teachers > K-12
Presented by:
• Mrs. Patricia Duncan, Director, STEM, Bureau of Standards and Instructional Support, Florida Department of Education
• Ms. Ashley Harvey, Elementary Math Specialist, Florida Department of Education

School Environmental Safety Incident Reporting (SESIR) for Florida Charter Schools

The presentation will include the basics of SESIR reporting, observations of data reporting trends, and best practices for quality data reporting.
Business > School Safety & Security | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms. Julie Collins, Office of Safe Schools, Florida Department of Education

Leveraging Google Workspace to Support Teachers, Students, and Families

Explore how the tools provided by Google Workspace for Education can be used to support teachers, students, and families. Learn from a Google for Education Certified Trainer how to maximize the effectiveness of Classroom, Forms, Drive, and more as an administrator.
Instruction > Instructional Technology | Classroom Teachers > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. Daniel Brennick, Assistant Principal, Literacy Leadership Technology Academy

The Future Starts Now: Preparing for Secondary Transition in Middle School

Participants in this training will learn about activities and strategies that support students with disabilities to transition from elementary school to middle school; from middle school to high school; and, ultimately, to post-school life.
Instruction > Exceptional Student Education | General > 5-8
Presented by:
• Ms. Lisa Friedman-Chavez, Regional Transition Representative - South Florida, Project 10

Now That We Have Them, How Do We Keep Them?

This presentation will provide participants with a program to attract, support and retain a high-quality teacher workforce. The Beginning Teacher Assistance Program (BTAP) is a formal school-site program to welcome and support new teachers. From Orientation Day to the End of Year timeline of activities will be shared. Participants will walk away with a comprehensive plan to implement at their school site.
Leadership > Teacher Recruitment and Retention | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms. Lisa Helfrich, Retired Resource Teacher, School District of Palm Beach County
• Mrs. Judi Ackerman, Retired Classroom Teacher, School District of Palm Beach County
• Mrs. Karla Branch, Resource Teacher, School District of Palm Beach County

ESSER Grants Galore! Managing Any Grant for Success!

Join us to learn how to write a good grant budget, purchase effectively and report your expenses in order to ensure reimbursement!
Business > Strategic Planning | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms Trisha Leitem, Assistant Director of Charter School Services, Building Hope
• Ms. Ann Levene-Eisenberg, Executive Director, Palm Beach School for Autism

The Path to Finding and Funding your School's Forever Home

Charter schools are education innovators, and as such, your school has a very special place in your community. As you reflect on the building itself: Is it a building that truly reflects your mission? Is it a safe and sustaining space for your students, staff, and teachers? Can you grow your school and your legacy in your building at the same time?
Business > Finance | Governing Board Members > |
Presented by:
• Jon Dahlberg, Senior VP of Business Development and Facilities, Charter School Capital
• Matthew Gardner, Client Services Representative, Charter School Capital

Friday, October 21, 2022 • 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

2022 Charter School Legal Update

This presentation will be an update on significant cases and legal changes impacting Florida Charter schools, focused on Florida law but also touching on significant legal developments from other states.
Business > Legal Issues | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. Daniel Woodring, Attorney, Woodring Law Firm

Winning the Charter School Narrative

Storytelling is an essential part of charter school success. Sharing your stories is critical to your continued success and a great way to connect with your parents and potential families. Thanks to the many digital storytelling tools available, sharing your story has never been easier. It’s a great way to tell everyone for people to learn about your program, its successes, and eliminate any misconceptions.
Business > Student Enrollment | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms Lynn Norman-Teck, Executive Director, Florida Charter School Alliance

So You Want to Build a Charter School?

Building your own custom charter school facility is filled with more ups and downs than Chutes & Ladders, so we created a game-ified Masterclass to learn about the real-life challenges and triumphs first-hand. Participants compete to be the first charter school who opens on-time, on-budget, and on-mission!
Business > Facilities | Charter School Board Members > K-12
Presented by:
• Ms. Sherilyn Moore, Chief Marketing Officer, Building Hope
• Mr. Adam Koonin, Marketing Manager, Building Hope Real Estate
• Mr. Andrew Ranieri, Director of Acquisitions, Building Hope Real Estate

Implementing an Explicit Phonics-based Program K-6

This presentation will help curriculum decision-makers understand the value of an explicit phonics approach to instruction and the reading, writing, and spelling benefits that await their school with the implementation of a program such as this.
Instruction > Reading | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mrs. Kelly Gunter, Director of School Operations, Pineapple Cove Classical Academy
• Ms. Nicole Roberts, Director of Literacy Curriculum and Instruction, Pineapple Cove Classical Academy

CPALMS Overview and What's New

Join us to learn about CPALMS, Florida's source for the standards, course descriptions, thousands of vetted teacher-created resources, and several award-winning tools.
Instruction > General | Classroom Teachers > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. Rabieh Razzouk, Director, CPALMS
• Mrs. Susan Cragg, Special Events and Professional Development Coordinator, CPALMS

Friday, October 21, 2022 • 9:45 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.

FDOE Update

FDOE representatives will provide an update on changes — legislative and otherwise — affecting Florida charter schools.
Business > Legislative Issues | General > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. Adam Emerson, Executive Director, Office of Independent Education and Parental Support, Florida Department of Education

Put Your Oxygen Mask On First Before Assisting Others 

The idea of "putting your mask on first" is a simple, but often overlooked policy as leaders sacrifice their well-being in order to take care of their team. Using national and local research, participants will learn and identify stressors and simple solutions that they can put into place immediately.
Leadership > School Leadership | School-based Administrators > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Ms. Christina Hamlin, Deputy State Director Area 5 (Duval, Clay & Leon Counties), Charter Schools USA
• Ms. Tracey Saxon, Director of School Support, Charter Schools USA
• Mrs. Rachel Windler-Freitag, Deputy State Director Area 2 (Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Lee & Collier Counties), Charter Schools USA

Your Path to a Worry-Free Audit by Exceeding the Standard

An audit is meant to be a celebration of good financial health rather than annual point of concern. Join us to find out how you can streamline your audit with best practices for success!
Business > School Operations | Business Managers > K-12 |
Presented by:
• Mr. Richard Moreno, President, Building Hope Services
• Ms. Laura Feinberg, Audit Partner, (SWKJD) Sharff, Wittmer, Kurtz, Jackson, & Diaz, P.A.
• Mr Jose Nodarse, Director of Finance, True North Charter Schools

Raising your ELA Scores through Writing: Simple and Easy

This presentation will show teachers and administrators how to raise their school’s overall ELA scores through writing. Participants will learn that teaching writing is simple and increasing students’ writing skills can be accomplished in an uncomplicated way. Participants will be provided with research-based strategies to assist students at all learning levels.
Instruction > Writing | Classroom Teachers > K-8 |
Presented by:
• Mrs. Lisa Collum, Author/Owner, Top Score Writing, Inc.
• Mrs. Jennifer Jones, Director of Curriculum and Training, Top Score Writing, Inc.
• Mrs. Jill MacKenzie, Teacher, Coastal Middle and High School

New Worlds Reading: Creating At-home Libraries for Eligible K-5 Students

During this presentation participants will learn about the New Worlds Reading Initiatives and opportunities to support eligible children and families.
Instruction > Reading | General > K-5 |
Presented by:
• Dr. Shaunté Duggins, Assistant Director, UF Lastinger Center for Learning
• Erika Fritz-Ochs, Engagement Manager, UF Lastinger Center for Learning