KEYNOTE SPEAKER | Dr. Liam Printer - CI and Motivation

Join keynote speaker Liam Printer as he shares research-based insights on motivation in language learning, drawing from over 40 years of studies and his own classroom experience. This session explores three essential factors for fostering engagement—competence, autonomy, and relatedness—through compelling stories, practical strategies, and the power of comprehensible input. Walk away with actionable ideas to make your language classroom a place where students want to participate and thrive.  WHAT’S INSIDE: Approaches to foster motivation and language acquisition in the classroom using the research-backed principles of competence, autonomy, and relatedness, with practical activities and comprehensible input strategies that emphasize engagement, communication, and positive emotions.

Dra. María Cubero - I'm Happy to Be in Your Class

Join Dr. María Cubero as she shares her heartfelt approach to building meaningful connections and fostering joy in the classroom through intentional relationship-building, student engagement strategies, and creative activities. Discover how her journey from Puerto Rico to Texas has shaped her inspiring methods, from personalized greetings to weekly reflections, all designed to help students feel seen, supported, and genuinely happy to be in her class. This session is filled with practical ideas and real classroom experiences that empower both teachers and students to thrive together.  WHAT’S INSIDE: Practical strategies for building meaningful classroom relationships, fostering a welcoming environment, supporting student interests, and implementing engaging daily routines and reflective practices.

Allison Wienhold - 1st Week of School Plans

Kick off your school year with Allison Wienhold, an experienced world language educator, as she shares her top strategies and teacher-tested activities for the crucial first week of class. Learn how to balance building classroom community, setting expectations, and providing engaging input—all tailored for various teaching situations and levels. Discover practical tips and resources to start strong, whether you’re a department of one or teaching multiple preps, and set the stage for a positive and productive year. WHAT’S INSIDE: Tried-and-true first week activities, templates for essential forms, methods for building classroom community, syllabus and communication tips, and input-focused routines to confidently launch your world language classes.

Ashley Mikkelsen - Creating a Syllabus For Your World Language Classroom

In this session, Ashley Mikkelsen walks listeners through creating an effective syllabus for the world language classroom. She shares practical advice on communicating expectations, policies, grading, and classroom management, offering tips experienced and new teachers alike can implement for a smoother school year. Tune in for actionable ideas to help set clear boundaries and foster student success from day one.  WHAT’S INSIDE: Practical guidance for creating a comprehensive world language syllabus, including must-have sections, clear classroom expectations, grading and retake policies, technology use, resource lists, and tips for communicating with students and guardians.

Jessica Hall - Zero Prep Spanish Sponge Activities for Any Level

Jessica Hall - Zero Prep Spanish Sponge Activities for Any Level