2026 KEYNOTE ANNOUNCED!

Derek Brian began his career with SEAS Education over 18 years ago in the Customer Support department. Over the years, Derek has served SEAS customers in a variety of roles, including Technical Writer, Account Manager, and Product Specialist. Derek has worked extensively with the CLASS program as the principal trainer and Product Specialist for over  ten years.

Ready to Take Your SEAS Attain Skills to the Next Level? (SEAS Attain: Intermediate User Training)

Have you been using SEAS Attain and are ready to explore its more advanced features? This session is designed just for you!

Join us for an engaging training session where you’ll learn how to:

• Create customized goals and objectives
• Implement and manage electronic signatures efficiently
• Request signatures from parents who are unable to attend the conference in person
• Share conference documents with parents electronically
• Complete goal progress reports
• Develop clear, effective narratives within your forms using merge fields
• Apply time-saving tips and advanced features to improve workflow and accuracy

This session is ideal for experienced users who want to streamline their processes, enhance documentation quality, and maximize the full capabilities of SEAS Attain.

Come ready to learn something new and elevate your expertise. We’re excited to help you become an even more confident and efficient SEAS Attain user!

This Session will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Maximizing the impact of IEPs with CLASS

Are you using CLASS to establish goals and objectives, but feel you need additional guidance? The first step in creating an effective IEP is developing the right assessment template to meet each student’s unique needs. Join Derek Brian for this informative session, where he will demonstrate how CLASS can provide a detailed skill-gap analysis to ensure comprehensive IEPs that drive student growth and improve outcomes. Gain practical insights to streamline your process and maximize the impact of your IEPs! This session is ideal for current SEAS CLASS users and those interested in implementing it in their district.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Christine Spearn is an educator with more than 29 years of teaching experience across multiple states. Her work centers on collaborating with school staff and families to support neurodivergent students and youth impacted by trauma through the implementation of trauma-informed practices. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. Her professional credentials include certification as a Trauma Resiliency Coordinator with Arkansas Foundation for Medical Care, a Mental Health First Aid instructor, and a trauma-informed educator.

Adverse Childhood Experiences 101

Attendees will understand ACEs research, consider its implications for themselves and others, and how it can be passed through generations, and identify prevention and response strategies.

Trauma-Informed Classrooms & Campuses

Attendees will understand trauma-informed approaches to create safe and supportive student learning environments.

Objectives:

• Define trauma and how trauma affects educator wellness.
• Describe how schools can address educator wellness.
• Learn Stress Management and Resiliency Strategies.

These Sessions will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Tara Russell has an extensive background working with special needs children with behavior issues and maintaining documents for due process procedures, initial evaluations, and re-evaluations. Tara has been instrumental in organizing information and increasing accountability while she collaborates with teachers, administrators, parents, and students to create an effective work environment. She dedicated to improving our systems and processes in innovative ways. Tara is a true advocate for school districts, employees, and students and has most recently focused on training and support of our SEAS Education Plan Management platform Attain 3.0.

SEAS Education Attain: IEP Plan Management Training (SEAS Attain: New User )

Whether you’re new to SEAS Education Attain or looking to strengthen your skills, this comprehensive training session will guide you through the essentials of effective IEP plan management.

Participants will gain practical, hands-on knowledge in:

• Creating and managing IEP packets
• Writing measurable goals and objectives
• Selecting appropriate accommodations and modifications
• Assigning services and service providers accurately
• Monitoring progress and maintaining compliance
• Navigating key features and tools within SEAS Attain

This session is designed to build confidence and efficiency while ensuring compliance with special education requirements. By the end of the training, participants will have a clear understanding of how to effectively manage the full IEP process within SEAS Education Attain.

Join us for an engaging and informative session that will strengthen your skills and support student success.

This session will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Attain Sticky Notes and Helpful Reminders

Designed for new and experienced users, this session will explore practical tips and solutions for managing common SEAS tasks and challenges. We will cover topics such as renumbering and deleting goals, managing instructional minutes and program attributes, handling staffing changes, printing notices and alternate-language packets, working with locked packets and rules, and maintaining users in HUB. Participants will leave with helpful strategies to streamline their daily processes and resolve common issues more efficiently.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Jennifer Robinson has over 30 years of experience providing consulting services to school districts in numerous states regarding school finance, Special Education, and Medicaid. She has designed, managed, and implemented numerous software systems in hundreds of school districts. Jennifer also has experience working in the financial services department for the largest school district in Arizona, the Mesa Unified School District. She has successfully advocated at the state and federal levels for changes to state reporting and Medicaid rules for various states, including Arizona. She is currently the VP of Client Success for SEAS Education, and her primary focus is on the successful implementation of new customers, continuing support of existing customers, and retention of customers.

Using SEAS Education’s DSCtop Services Manager to Maximize Arkansas Medicaid Reimbursements

This session is designed to help streamline your district’s Medicaid documentation process by taking a proactive approach to completing the DMS-640 forms. Learn why completing the DMS-640s during the summer months can ensure most are completed and returned before the first day of school, setting your team up for success. We’ll also demonstrate how to use the scheduling feature to save valuable time, especially for those managing large caseloads. Additionally, we’ll review key annual tasks such as ensuring therapists verify their NPI and Medicaid numbers. Finally, we’ll provide hands-on guidance on how to run and filter detailed reports, including claims disposition and more, so you can make the most of the system’s data insights. Perfect for staff who want to feel more confident and efficient with documentation and compliance processes.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Morgan Stevens brings a strong and heartfelt commitment to the field of special education. With years of experience supporting children with special needs, she has served as Assistant Director of a daycare for children with special needs, a self-contained paraprofessional for six years, and a Special Education Clerk before joining SEAS Education as an account manager. Through these roles, she has gained extensive knowledge of classroom support, leadership, compliance, and the detailed processes behind IEP implementation.In addition to her professional background, Morgan offers a valuable personal perspective as a parent of a child with an IEP. Having been on both sides of the table, she understands the paperwork, procedures, and emotions involved at every level. She is passionate about using her leadership skills and ability to build strong connections with districts to support both educators and families in meaningful ways.

Ready to Take Your SEAS Attain Skills to the Next Level? (SEAS Attain: Intermediate User Training)

Have you been using SEAS Attain and are ready to explore its more advanced features? This session is designed just for you!

Join us for an engaging training session where you’ll learn how to:

• Create customized goals and objectives
• Implement and manage electronic signatures efficiently
• Request signatures from parents who are unable to attend the conference in person
• Share conference documents with parents electronically
• Complete goal progress reports
• Develop clear, effective narratives within your forms using merge fields
• Apply time-saving tips and advanced features to improve workflow and accuracy

This session is ideal for experienced users who want to streamline their processes, enhance documentation quality, and maximize the full capabilities of SEAS Attain.

Come ready to learn something new and elevate your expertise. We’re excited to help you become an even more confident and efficient SEAS Attain user!

This Session will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Sara has been a valued member of SEAS Education since 2007, bringing nearly two decades of experience supporting educators and administrators. She began her career as a Service Coordinator before transitioning to Customer Support in 2008, where she has spent the past 18 years helping districts successfully navigate the Achieve, Attain, and CLASS programs.
Throughout her time at SEAS, Sara has built strong relationships with users across the country by providing knowledgeable guidance, practical solutions, and responsive support. She is passionate about helping educators feel confident using the system and ensuring they have the tools they need to support students effectively.

Attain Sticky Notes and Helpful Reminders

Designed for new and experienced users, this session will explore practical tips and solutions for managing common SEAS tasks and challenges. We will cover topics such as renumbering and deleting goals, managing instructional minutes and program attributes, handling staffing changes, printing notices and alternate-language packets, working with locked packets and rules, and maintaining users in HUB. Participants will leave with helpful strategies to streamline their daily processes and resolve common issues more efficiently.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Liz Clements serves as Vice President of Product at SEAS Education, where she leads the strategy and development of the company’s software solutions supporting educators and administrators. With more than two decades of experience at SEAS, Liz brings deep institutional knowledge and a strong commitment to delivering products that improve the daily work of school districts. Throughout her 24-year career with SEAS, Liz has contributed to the evolution of the company’s product suite, helping guide enhancements that strengthen functionality, improve user experience, and support compliance and operational needs for districts. She believes that every feature and improvement has a real impact on the people using the system and approaches product development with a strong focus on customer needs. Liz values collaboration and credits the success of SEAS products to the talented team she works alongside. Looking ahead, she remains focused on delivering meaningful innovations and enhancements that continue to help districts operate more efficiently while supporting the important work of educators.

SEAS Attain: Administrative Training

Take your SEAS Attain administration skills to the next level! In this session, administrators will learn practical strategies for managing the system more efficiently while supporting the development of strong IEPs and 504 Plans. As a SEAS Attain administrator, you play a critical role in ensuring the system is used effectively across your district.

Join us for an informative and practical training that will cover:

• Troubleshooting LRE calculation errors, including shortened school day scenarios
• Creating district narratives for your team
• Adding staff, services, and accommodations in SEAS
• Editing or creating user roles
• Inactivating staff in the HUB
• Learning how to send and receive student records within SEAS
• Exploring the many reports available within the system

This session will provide helpful tips and tools to strengthen your administrative skills and help your district make the most of SEAS Attain.

This session will be held on Wednesday, July 8

Carla Knight, MSE, BCBA, is an experienced educator with 28 years in the field of education. She spent 16 years serving as a Special Education Supervisor, where she supported teachers, programs, and students with diverse learning needs. Carla currently works as a Behavior Support Specialist with Arkansas Behavior Support Specialists, where she has spent the past two years partnering with school districts to help develop effective supports and strategies for students. Her work focuses on improving student outcomes through collaboration, behavior support, and evidence-based practices.

Quick Tips for Positive Behavior

Looking for practical, easy-to-implement strategies to promote positive behavior in your classroom? This session will provide quick, actionable Tier 1 behavior strategies that can be used immediately to create a positive, engaging classroom environment. Attendees will learn simple techniques for reinforcing positive behaviors, setting clear expectations, and fostering a supportive classroom culture. From visual cues and positive reinforcement to structured routines, these strategies can help reduce disruptions while promoting a positive learning atmosphere for all students. Join us for a session filled with tools you can start using tomorrow!

Website: arbss.org

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Amanda Kirby is a dedicated Behavior Support Specialist with over 15 years of experience in education. Throughout her career, she has focused on supporting students with diverse learning and behavioral needs, with a strong emphasis on special education. Amanda works closely with teachers and school staff to develop practical strategies that help students with challenging behaviors succeed both academically and socially.

Known for her collaborative approach, Amanda specializes in coaching and training educators on effective behavior management, classroom supports, and evidence-based practices. She is passionate about empowering teachers with the tools and confidence needed to create structured, supportive learning environments where all students can thrive. Her work centers on building positive relationships, promoting inclusive practices, and helping schools better support students who need it most.

Quick Tips for Positive Behavior

Looking for practical, easy-to-implement strategies to promote positive behavior in your classroom? This session will provide quick, actionable Tier 1 behavior strategies that can be used immediately to create a positive, engaging classroom environment. Attendees will learn simple techniques for reinforcing positive behaviors, setting clear expectations, and fostering a supportive classroom culture. From visual cues and positive reinforcement to structured routines, these strategies can help reduce disruptions while promoting a positive learning atmosphere for all students. Join us for a session filled with tools you can start using tomorrow!

Website: arbss.org

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Andrea Fortner is an Arkansas A.W.A.R.E. (Advancing Wellness and Resiliency in Education) Regional Trainer who has 27 years of experience in education, from teaching in an elementary classroom, counseling at a high school, and coordinating programs at the state level. She received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at Henderson State University in 1999, and while teaching, she became National Board Certified. Following her heart, she became a high school counselor, earning a Master’s in Professional School Counseling from Harding University. She then served as the Coordinator for School Counseling at the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education . In July of 2023, she joined the A.W.A.R.E. team following her dream to help educators and families support the students of Arkansas.

De-escalation Curve

When students have trauma, adversity, chaos, inconsistency (or any number of other things piled on top of that), it’s very difficult for them to regulate their emotions. As a result, we need to be increasingly more skilled in our ability to de-escalate the moment and help our students return to a state of regulation. We’re not offering quick fixes. We’re offering the opportunity to learn how real change happens.

In this one-hour preview of our six-hour workshop, we will focus on the process of escalation and de-escalation.

What is important for us to know in the moment?

• Let’s clarify our goals and put a few tools in our belts.
• Examine the goal of de-escalation and the de-escalation curve.
• Compare non-reactive to reactive responses for inappropriate behaviors.
• Discuss the nuance of de-escalation techniques.

Website: https://dese.ade.arkansas.gov/Offices/learning-services/school-health-services/arkansas-aware

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

The mission of Special Olympics Arkansas is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for all children and adults with intellectual disabilities giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.

Our program is supported by individual donations, private and corporate sponsorships, state appropriations, grants, and special fundraising events. Your financial support offers training, equipment and competition to our athletes FREE OF CHARGE!

We will also share more about different program we have within Special Olympics Arkansas like, Unified Champion Schools, Young Athletes, JR Athletes, and MATP!

Supporting Inclusion in Schools through Special Olympics Arkansas

The mission of Special Olympics Arkansas is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for all children and adults with intellectual disabilities giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.

Our program is supported by individual donations, private and corporate sponsorships, state appropriations, grants, and special fundraising events. Your financial support offers training, equipment and competition to our athletes FREE OF CHARGE!

We will also share more about different program we have within Special Olympics Arkansas like, Unified Champion Schools, Young Athletes, JR Athletes, and MATP!

Website: https://www.specialolympicsarkansas.org/

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

The mission of Special Olympics Arkansas is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for all children and adults with intellectual disabilities giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.

Our program is supported by individual donations, private and corporate sponsorships, state appropriations, grants, and special fundraising events. Your financial support offers training, equipment and competition to our athletes FREE OF CHARGE!

We will also share more about different program we have within Special Olympics Arkansas like, Unified Champion Schools, Young Athletes, JR Athletes, and MATP!

Supporting Inclusion in Schools through Special Olympics Arkansas

The mission of Special Olympics Arkansas is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for all children and adults with intellectual disabilities giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.

Our program is supported by individual donations, private and corporate sponsorships, state appropriations, grants, and special fundraising events. Your financial support offers training, equipment and competition to our athletes FREE OF CHARGE!

We will also share more about different program we have within Special Olympics Arkansas like, Unified Champion Schools, Young Athletes, JR Athletes, and MATP!

Website: https://www.specialolympicsarkansas.org/

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Heather Tyler is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and an accomplished education leader with extensive experience in special education. She’s currently a Special Education Supervisor at Springdale School District, a role she’s held since July 2024. Before this, she served as a Special Education Coordinator for the Bentonville School District for four years and a Self-contained Special Education Teacher at Springdale School District’s Young Elementary.
Heather’s background also includes significant leadership roles at the Elizabeth Richardson Center, where she was an Autism Program Coordinator, Case Manager, and Interim Facility Administrator. She holds an Ed.S. in Principalship from Arkansas State University, along with a Special Education Director Certificate and a B.S.E. in Early Childhood Special Education from the same institution. Additionally, she earned an M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis with an Autism Emphasis from Ball State University. Heather is also a certified trainer in Professional Crisis Management (PCM) and Every Day Behavior Tools (EDBT).

Navigating the Balance: A School District’s Guide to IEP Due Process and Compliance

This training provides school administrators and special education staff with a comprehensive roadmap for managing the complexities of IDEA legal requirements and dispute resolution. Participants will master proactive documentation strategies and procedural safeguards designed to minimize litigation risks while maintaining a student-centered approach to IEP development.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

With 15 years in education, Amber Graham has dedicated her career to serving children with diverse needs from birth through age 21. She spent 12 years as a special education teacher across all grades (K–12) and settings, including self-contained, behavioral, resource, inclusion, and co-teaching environments.

She later served as an LEA Supervisor for the Hazen and Bradford school districts and as an Early Childhood Coordinator for the Wilbur D. Mills Education Service Cooperative. She now serves as the Part C Coordinator for the Arkansas Department of Education’s First Connections program, supporting early intervention services for children from birth to age three.

Outside of her professional work, Amber is deeply involved in the special needs community. She serves as a Night to Shine director through her church, The Vine @ Cabot, in partnership with the Tim Tebow Foundation, Area 6 Director and State Cheer Director for Special Olympics Arkansas, and a CheerAbilities coach for Icon at World Class Allstars in Cabot.

In her personal life, Amber is married to Jeff Graham, a fellow educator, and has two wonderful stepdaughters. They enjoy life on their small hobby farm, where they raise Nigerian Dwarf goats and spend a lot of time outdoors. Amber loves all animals and spending quality time with her family.

From Part C to Part B: Transitions, Documentation, and Supporting Families

Transitions can be complex—but they don’t have to be confusing. This session breaks down the Part C to Part B transition process, including IDEA requirements, along with each part’s role under the Arkansas Department of Education intra-agency agreement. Participants will gain clarity on how to document part C referrals correctly, while also learning practical strategies to guide and support families every step of the way.

This session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Jessica Lewis is a Professional Development and Technical Assistant Specialist at First Connections. She holds a master’s degree in early childhood special education and brings over 25 years of experience working with children from birth to age five. Her background includes providing direct care, serving as an early childhood special educator, training providers, and developing professional learning content. Jessica is passionate about equipping educators with best practices to support positive outcomes for young children. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, watching movies, and exploring trails in their Jeeps. She also shares her home with a cat named Minnie and a dog named Baxter.

From Part C to Part B: Transitions, Documentation, and Supporting Families

Transitions can be complex—but they don’t have to be confusing. This session breaks down the Part C to Part B transition process, including IDEA requirements, along with each part’s role under the Arkansas Department of Education intra-agency agreement. Participants will gain clarity on how to document part C referrals correctly, while also learning practical strategies to guide and support families every step of the way.

This session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Shantella Davis is a Trainer for Arkansas’s Part C Early Intervention program, First Connections, where she provides training, mentoring, and technical assistance to staff and providers statewide. She supports recruitment and retention efforts, identifies professional development needs, and conducts outreach with partner agencies. Ms. Davis has also assisted families of infants and toddlers with disabilities in accessing services and transitioning to preschool programs.

Her prior experience includes over nine years with the state’s SNAP, TEA, and Medicaid programs, helping connect families to nutrition and healthcare resources. She holds a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Shantella is active in her community, advocating for equal rights, and enjoys umpiring, baking custom cakes, and playing drums.

From Part C to Part B: Transitions, Documentation, and Supporting Families

Transitions can be complex—but they don’t have to be confusing. This session breaks down the Part C to Part B transition process, including IDEA requirements, along with each part’s role under the Arkansas Department of Education intra-agency agreement. Participants will gain clarity on how to document part C referrals correctly, while also learning practical strategies to guide and support families every step of the way.

This session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Rebecca Sprague is a dual-certified English and Special Education teacher at Mena High School with 15 years of experience in public education. Her teaching career has spanned birth through adulthood, with the majority of her experience in K–6 resource and self-contained classrooms before transitioning to secondary education. Since the 2024–2025 school year, she has focused on supporting middle and high school students, embedding transition skills into academic instruction.

Rebecca holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Arkansas and a master’s degree in Special Education from Arkansas State University. She is an active member of her school’s special education team, Literacy PLC, and BX3, and serves as a Transition Navigator on the Mena Career Council.

Passionate about preparing students for life beyond the classroom, Rebecca helped develop Mena High School’s LIFT (Leadership, Independence, Fundamental, and Trade) transition program through the STAR (Seamless Transition for Arkansas) initiative. Her work focuses on building community partnerships and equipping students with the skills needed to become independent, contributing members of society.

LIFT Off: Launching a Transition Program That Prepares Students for Life

Rebecca Sprague shares the journey of developing a high school transition program from the ground up through the STAR (Seamless Transition for Arkansas) initiative at Mena High School. With limited existing services for resource and 504 students, this work led to the creation of LIFT (Leadership, Independence, Fundamental, and Trade), a program designed to equip students with the skills needed for success beyond graduation.

This session will provide both practical strategies and inspiration for educators looking to strengthen or begin transition services in their own schools. Attendees will learn how to embed transition skills into academic instruction, build meaningful community partnerships, and create opportunities for student growth in independence and employment readiness.
Participants will leave with ideas, structures, and real-world examples that can be adapted to fit their own school settings, along with a renewed focus on preparing students to become confident, capable, and contributing members of their communities.

Tiffany Luttmer is a dedicated educator and advocate for student success, currently serving as a special education teacher. She transitioned into special education during the 2024–2025 school year, bringing with her a diverse background in both academics and student development.

Prior to this role, Tiffany spent eight years teaching 8th grade science, where she built a strong foundation in engaging instruction and fostering critical thinking skills. She also coached for five years, helping students develop teamwork, discipline, and perseverance both on and off the field.

In addition to her classroom experience, Tiffany serves as a Navigator on the Mena Career Council, where she works to connect students with career pathways and post-secondary opportunities. Her combined experience in education, coaching, and career development uniquely positions her to support students in successful transitions from school to adulthood.

LIFT Off: Launching a Transition Program That Prepares Students for Life

Rebecca Sprague shares the journey of developing a high school transition program from the ground up through the STAR (Seamless Transition for Arkansas) initiative at Mena High School. With limited existing services for resource and 504 students, this work led to the creation of LIFT (Leadership, Independence, Fundamental, and Trade), a program designed to equip students with the skills needed for success beyond graduation.

This session will provide both practical strategies and inspiration for educators looking to strengthen or begin transition services in their own schools. Attendees will learn how to embed transition skills into academic instruction, build meaningful community partnerships, and create opportunities for student growth in independence and employment readiness.
Participants will leave with ideas, structures, and real-world examples that can be adapted to fit their own school settings, along with a renewed focus on preparing students to become confident, capable, and contributing members of their communities.

Lisa Pelotte is the VP of Medicaid Services for SEAS Education. Lisa has been located in the SEAS Medicaid National Claims Administration Center in Franconia, NH since 2002. As the VP of Medicaid, Lisa is responsible for the school-based Medicaid billing operations for all states. Her main goal is to assist school districts in understanding their state Medicaid program and to provide the tools, best practices and methods to ensure district compliance while maximizing reimbursements. Lisa works closely with districts to improve all operations that relate to the school-based Medicaid program. In her position, she supervises and coordinates these tasks on a national level: database administration, Medicaid eligibility determination, claims entry, internal audits, denial/rejection research, remittance reconciliation, state processing relationships, district audit preparations and all employee training programs.

Using SEAS Education’s DSCtop Services Manager to Maximize Arkansas Medicaid Reimbursements

This session is designed to help streamline your district’s Medicaid documentation process by taking a proactive approach to completing the DMS-640 forms. Learn why completing the DMS-640s during the summer months can ensure most are completed and returned before the first day of school, setting your team up for success. We’ll also demonstrate how to use the scheduling feature to save valuable time, especially for those managing large caseloads. Additionally, we’ll review key annual tasks such as ensuring therapists verify their NPI and Medicaid numbers. Finally, we’ll provide hands-on guidance on how to run and filter detailed reports, including claims disposition and more, so you can make the most of the system’s data insights. Perfect for staff who want to feel more confident and efficient with documentation and compliance processes.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Dana Bennett, RN is the Assistant Director for Medicaid in the Schools (MITS) for the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. In her 20th year with MITS, Dana provides guidance, leadership, and technical assistance to support schools in operating effective Medicaid programs. She acts as a liaison for districts to resolve issues which create barriers to student health services. Offering knowledge and support to maximize district Medicaid reimbursement so they can provide needed services and supports for students to be successful. She leads a team of regional advisors that offer technical support and trainings to districts. Dana also serves on the School-Based Health Center (SBHC) State team and is passionate about making student health accessible.

Get Ready for What’s Next: MITS Rolls Out New Services

This presentation will cover what districts need to know about the new Medicaid billing services for the new school year and how to be prepared for implementation.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Sarah Smith is an attorney at Friday, Eldredge & Clark, LLP, where she focuses on employment, education, and special education law. She regularly represents school districts in due process proceedings and advises on compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and evolving Arkansas education laws. Her recent experience includes successfully defending a multi-day special education due process hearing and counseling districts through complex student discipline and removal issues.

Sarah also speaks on legal issues impacting public schools, with an emphasis on special education. She earned her J.D., magna cum laude, from the University of Arkansas School of Law and her B.A. in History, summa cum laude, from the University of Arkansas Honors College. Prior to joining the firm, she clerked for the Honorable D. Price Marshall Jr. of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas.

When Sarah is not in the office, she enjoys spending time with her dog, reading, and cheering on the Razorbacks.

Special Education Law: A Federal and State Overview

This presentation will provide an overview of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and state rules and regulations regarding special education. It will give educators and administrators guidance on how to navigate special education laws and ensure compliance while providing all special education students a free appropriate public education.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Tracy Sheehy is a State Education Advisor with the Arkansas Department of Education, Office of Special Education. She brings more than 26 years of experience as a teacher and education leader, including teaching in both special education and general education classrooms and serving as an LEA for a public school district. Her classroom and leadership experience guide her work supporting districts across Arkansas. In her current role, Tracy helps districts strengthen special education systems, meet state and federal requirements, and improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

Addressing Student Needs through the IEP, PlAAFP, and Goals

Join members of the DESE Monitoring and Program Effectiveness team as they walk through key components needed to develop a reasonably calculated IEP. The focus of the session will be the connection between the PLAAFP and goals to ensure student needs are addressed.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Brandy Faught is a State Education Advisor with the Arkansas Department of Education, Office of Special Education. With over 20 years of experience in education, she brings a diverse background that includes teaching in both general and special education classrooms, serving as a Certified Teacher of the Visually Impaired, and providing district leadership as an LEA Supervisor. In her current role, Brandy collaborates with districts across Arkansas to monitor special education programs for compliance and program effectiveness, offering technical assistance and guidance to help schools meet state and federal regulations. Through her leadership and commitment to best practices, she fosters continuous improvement in instruction and outcomes for students with disabilities across Arkansas.

Addressing Student Needs through the IEP, PlAAFP, and Goals

Join members of the DESE Monitoring and Program Effectiveness team as they walk through key components needed to develop a reasonably calculated IEP. The focus of the session will be the connection between the PLAAFP and goals to ensure student needs are addressed.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Ashley Irvin is a State Education Advisor with the Arkansas Department of Education, Office of Special Education, with over 20 years of experience as an educator and education leader. She provides statewide leadership focused on special education compliance, systems leadership, and coaching to support school districts in meeting federal and state requirements. In her role, Ashley partners with district leaders, administrators, and educators to strengthen systems, build capacity through targeted coaching, and promote sustainable, compliant practices that improve outcomes for students with disabilities. She is known for her collaborative leadership approach and her commitment to aligning compliance with effective, system‑level support.

Addressing Student Needs through the IEP, PlAAFP, and Goals

Join members of the DESE Monitoring and Program Effectiveness team as they walk through key components needed to develop a reasonably calculated IEP. The focus of the session will be the connection between the PLAAFP and goals to ensure student needs are addressed.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Dr. Amillia K. Oswalt earned her PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Arkansas, where her dissertation examined Perceptions of Families, Students, and Teachers on IEP Engagement for Families and Students of Color during Junior High and High School IEP Meetings. She holds multiple advanced degrees from Arkansas State University, including an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership (Superintendent concentration), an M.S.E. in Curriculum and Instruction, and a B.S.E. in Special Education. Dr. Oswalt also holds Arkansas certifications in Special Education, Curriculum Programming Administration, and Early Childhood through secondary instruction.

Dr. Oswalt currently serves as a Project Coordinator for Seamless Transition for Arkansas at the University of Arkansas. She previously worked as a Lecturer and Internship Supervisor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction and participated in the federally funded Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) program. With over 20 years of experience in public education, she spent the majority of her career as a Special Education and Transition Teacher in the Forrest City School District.

Her work has been recognized through several honors, including Arkansas Transition Teacher of the Year, the Division of Career Development and Transition Research Graduate Student Grant, and selection as a Razorback–Sooner Scholar through an OSEP-funded leadership grant. Dr. Oswalt’s professional interests focus on equitable transition planning, student and family engagement in IEP development, and improving post-school outcomes for students with disabilities.

Building Community Engagement through the Establishment of Self-Determined Career Councils

Effective transition planning for youth with disabilities requires coordinated collaboration across schools, service systems, families, and communities. In rural areas, communication gaps often limit shared goals and access to resources. Career Councils address these challenges by centering youth voice, strengthening cross-system communication, and empowering communities to collaboratively solve local transition barriers and improve post‑school outcomes.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Marcia Harding received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Missouri. She has decades of experience working as a special education administrator, speech-language pathologist, and consultant. She served ten years as the Director of Special Education for Arkansas’ public schools while working at the Arkansas Department of Education. Her experience includes oversight of the system for impartial due process hearings and state complaint investigations, and she served as an expert witness in IDEA federal court proceedings. Her experience includes working in a program for Pre-K students with disabilities, serving as Chief of Speech and Hearing in a mental health facility, working in public school K-12 programs, college instructor, working in a facility for chronically ill, medically fragile and technology dependent children and youth, and serving in her current role as Associate Director of Special Education for the Pulaski County Special School District.

Legal and Ethical Issues in Special Education

As leaders and educators, we are frequently faced with dilemmas that challenge our ethical practices, values and character in problem solving and decision making within the educational environment. How do we react? How do we respond to the various stakeholders? Do we remain fair and equitable in our determinations and actions? What guides us in that process? What must we consider? All this and more will be explored and applied during this session. Participants will leave with a better understanding of principled leadership, whether leading in the classroom or at the organizational level.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Sandra Doggett serves as the Special Education Director for the Arkansas Public School Resource Center(APSRC), where she has supported public charter schools for the past year and a half through collaboration, guidance, and professional learning. She is passionate about partnering with special education administrators, teachers, and staff to strengthen inclusive practices and improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

UDL & Inclusive Practices: Practical Strategies for Every Classroom

Inclusive practices and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) are most effective when they are practical, collaborative, and sustainable for all educators. This interactive 50-minute session will provide teachers, special educators, instructional staff, and administrators with realistic strategies that can be implemented immediately to support diverse learners in inclusive settings. Participants will explore ways general education and special education teachers can work together to increase student access, engagement, and success while strengthening instruction for all learners. Attendees will leave with practical tools, classroom-ready ideas, and collaborative approaches that benefit both students and educators.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

Julie Amstutz serves as a Special Education Leadership Development Coach with the Office of Coordinated Support and Services, partnering with educators across Arkansas to strengthen outcomes for students with disabilities. With 36 years of experience as a speech-language therapist, special education teacher, assistant principal, elementary principal, and director of student services, Julie brings both depth and practical insight to her work.

UDL & Inclusive Practices: Practical Strategies for Every Classroom

Inclusive practices and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) are most effective when they are practical, collaborative, and sustainable for all educators. This interactive 50-minute session will provide teachers, special educators, instructional staff, and administrators with realistic strategies that can be implemented immediately to support diverse learners in inclusive settings. Participants will explore ways general education and special education teachers can work together to increase student access, engagement, and success while strengthening instruction for all learners. Attendees will leave with practical tools, classroom-ready ideas, and collaborative approaches that benefit both students and educators.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026

For more than 30 years as an educational advocate and resource provider, Karen has advocated for children and adults with disabilities. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Sociology. She is also the parent of an adult child with a disability.

Transition to Kindergarten

Brief description of The Center for Exceptional Families (TCFEF) Arkansas’ Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) and the basics for parent’s preparing for their child’s tranistion to Kindergarten.

This Session will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026