The 13 Essential Elements for Schoolwide Success

Presenters: Compass Literacy Specialist Dr. Kim Buechler & Learning Specialist Chris Snyder

Thursday, 10:30 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. in Room 3

Explicit instruction is a research-backed approach that ensures all students—regardless of age, grade level, or content area—have access to clear, structured, and effective learning experiences. In this session, we’ll explore the 13 foundational elements of explicit instruction. From setting clear learning objectives to providing systematic feedback, each element plays a critical role in fostering student achievement and closing learning gaps. Designed for school administrators, this session will provide you with the knowledge and tools to support teachers in implementing explicit instruction schoolwide. Learn how to observe, evaluate, and coach educators in using these strategies to create engaging, accessible, and impactful lessons that drive student success across all subjects and grade levels.

Building Success Through School & Community Partnerships

Presenters: Eagle Butte Superintendent Kara Four Bear & The Keya Foundation, Inc. Director Jaylynn Farlee

Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in Rooms 8-9-10

2024 SASD Community Helping Hands Award: Discover how the Eagle Butte School District 20-1 and The Keya Foundation Inc. have built a strong, five-year partnership to support youth development. This session will explore how collaboration enhances student skill-building, recognition efforts, and programming designed to increase protective factors while reducing risks. Attendees will gain insight into the mutual benefits of school-community partnerships and practical strategies for fostering positive opportunities that empower students and strengthen the community.

Science of Reading – Unpacking the Research and Its Impact on Instruction

Presenter: Compass Literacy Specialist Dr. Kim Buechler

Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in Room 3

The “Science of Reading” has become a cornerstone of modern literacy education, but what does it truly entail, and how can it transform classroom practice? In this session, we’ll explore the latest research on how students learn to read and the most effective methods for teaching reading. We’ll break down the critical differences between balanced literacy and structured literacy, highlighting the evidence-based practices that align with the Science of Reading. From phonemic awareness to fluency and comprehension, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the key components that drive successful reading instruction. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to the concept, this session will provide you with actionable insights and strategies to align your teaching with the Science of Reading and support every student’s journey to becoming a confident, capable reader.

Building a Strong RTI Framework: Key Elements for Student Success

Presenters: Compass Literacy Specialist Dr. Kim Buechler & Learning Specialist Chris Snyder

Thursday, 3:00 p.m. to 3:50 p.m. in Room 3

Response to Intervention (RTI) is a proven, multi-tiered approach to identifying and supporting students’ academic and behavioral needs—but where do you start? In this session, we’ll break down the essential components of an effective RTI framework, including data collection systems, data-driven decision-making processes, intervention protocols, scheduling strategies, and the role of monthly PLC meetings. Whether you’re focusing on reading/ELA or math, this session will provide you with a clear roadmap to design and implement an RTI system that meets the unique needs of your students. Through real-world examples and practical guidance, you’ll learn how to create a structured, responsive, and equitable framework that ensures every learner has the opportunity to succeed.

Rethinking Math Interventions: Fluency Beyond Memorization

Presenters: BHSSC-Compass Learning Specialists Nicole Bisgaard & Jenna Stephens

Thursday, 4:00 p.m. to 4:50 p.m. in Room 2

Does it feel like your math interventions aren’t working? A common misconception about fluency may be the reason. True math fluency means being flexible with numbers—this means as educators we may need to push ourselves to understand models we didn’t learn or using strategies that may not feel intuitive. True fluency goes beyond memorization; it requires targeted interventions, not just “more practice.” This session will explore how to shift math instruction to build confident, capable learners through meaningful, flexible mathematical thinking.

From Classroom to Community: Empowering Social Entrepreneurs through Experiential Learning

Presenters: TEEEM Executive Vice President Taylor (DeMaio) D’Alessio & BHSSC Community & Family Services Deputy Director Morgan VonHaden

Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 9:50 a.m. in Room 3

TEEEM is proud to partner with the Statewide Family Engagement Center to bring the Poverty Escape Game to classrooms as a powerful tool for experiential learning. This interactive simulation challenges students to navigate the complexities of poverty, fostering empathy, critical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving. Through this shared experience, students gain a deeper understanding of global and local challenges while identifying their own capacity to drive change. The partnership bridges classroom learning with real-world impact, encouraging students to take on the role of social entrepreneurs. Together, TEEEM and the Statewide Family Engagement Center are empowering youth to transform empathy into action—within their schools, communities, and beyond.

Building the Bridge: Aligning Early Childhood & K-12 Education for Lifelong Success

Presenter: SDPB Educational Consultant Kevin Nelson

Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. in Rooms 11-12

The earliest years of a child’s life are a time of extraordinary growth—and what happens during these years lays the foundation for everything that follows. In this session, we’ll explore the compelling science behind early childhood development and why investment in the early years is one of the most impactful ways to influence academic success, lifelong health, and economic mobility. We’ll also examine why alignment between early childhood education and the K–12 system is critical. A well-integrated approach ensures that children experience a smooth, supportive educational journey from preschool through graduation—without gaps or missed opportunities. Finally, learn how organizations across South Dakota are stepping up to fill critical gaps in access, equity, and quality. From community-based initiatives to statewide collaborations, these efforts are ensuring that families and communities have what they need to give every young learner a strong and fair start. Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or community leader, this session will offer both inspiration and practical strategies to help build a seamless, supportive system for our youngest citizens.

Unlocking Student Success with Qualitative Insights

Presenters: BHSSC Evaluation Director Dr. Ryan Young & Compass Director Dr. Kyle Laughlin

Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. in Room 2

Our session helps administrators and leadership teams analyze both quantitative and qualitative data to identify strengths and improvement opportunities. We’ll guide teams through root cause analysis to support data-informed decision-making for their building. The process culminates in developing meaningful improvements, goals, and actionable steps based on a comprehensive understanding of the data.

Immersive STEAM Engagement: Unleashing Creativity and Collaboration in the Classroom

Presenter: BHSSC Community & Family Services Learning Specialist Jeff Sebern

Friday, 11:00 a.m. to 11:50 a.m. in Rooms 11-12

Step into your students’ shoes and discover effective STEAM engagement strategies in this interactive session. Through role-playing and dynamic discussions, explore best practices for lesson facilitation and building an inspiring STEAM learning environment. Learn about BHSSC’s STEAM Immersion programs and gain valuable insights to create interdisciplinary learning experiences.