Agenda

Wednesday Schedule

February 19, 2025

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM

Career Focus

 

Presenter(s)
Joel Weckerly, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD
Room
Crockett A
Audience Level
New Professional
Description
Success in school PR is earned, not given. Learn tips and lessons from an 18-year school PR veteran who began his career as a specialist in Texas’s third-largest school district and now oversees the communication department. Discover how to develop good habits, build critical relationships and commit to personal growth while blossoming as a trusted PR practitioner. ¡Viva #schoolpr!

 

 

Presenter(s)
David Hicks, M.A., Allen ISD; Rachel Frost, M.A., Region 10 Education Service Center
Room
Crockett B
Audience Level
New Professional
Description
From officing out of cubicles and forgotten closets to serving as Chief Communications Officers, David and Rachel will share practical insights on building influence, expanding your skill set, and developing executive presence. Whether you’re early in your career or ready to take the next step toward senior leadership, you’ll walk away with a practical roadmap for professional advancement.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Michael Dudas, M.S., Galveston ISD
Room
Crockett C
Audience Level
All
Description
Michael Dudas spent 17 years teaching audio/video production and photography in the classroom, during which time he accumulated numerous accolades. His story chronicles the long and winding path that ultimately led him to the Communications offices at Galveston ISD, where he now serves as the district’s new Director of Communications. Hear how he leveraged the skills and expertise he developed over the years to effectively communicate the district’s message and engage with the community. His transition from the classroom to the Communications office showcases how the skills and knowledge acquired in one educational setting can seamlessly translate to success in another educational setting.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Leah Deniston, M.A., Hillsboro ISD
Room
Crockett D
Audience Level
All
Description
Do you know how to create a communication plan from start to finish? Can you compile and present analytical data for the C-Suite? Have you delved into the theoretical foundations of public relations? A Master’s Degree in Public Relations can equip you with this expertise and more. This session will explore the key subjects covered in an MA program, managing the demands of work, personal life, and academics, and the advantages of pursuing an MA.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Kaitlin Paonessa, Jordan Ziemer Ph.D., Abilene ISD
Room
Republic A
Audience Level
New Professional
Description
Embarking on a new professional journey in school communications? Whether you’re shifting careers, transitioning from another sector, or coming back to the field, learn how to successfully establish yourself in our dynamic field. In this session, we’ll share valuable lessons from real-life career transitions, focusing on how to leverage your existing skills to make a meaningful impact. You’ll also discover the importance of building a strong, supportive network that can guide you along the way.

 

Presenter(s)
Jennifer Jones, Barbers Hill ISD
Room
Republic C
Audience Level
New Professional
Description
Join us for an honest and open discussion about burnout in our field. We’ll explore the signs and symptoms, including the unique challenges faced by school communicators, such as toxic positivity and vocational awe. Learn strategies for setting boundaries, managing stress, and finding balance in your personal and professional life. Leave feeling empowered and equipped to prioritize your well-being and create a more sustainable work-life balance.

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Grab & Go Breakfast (Exhibit Hall)

8:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Second General Session: Key Communicator Dr. Walter Jackson; Professional Awards; Officer Installation (Texas Ballroom B, C)

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Conference Picture

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Sessions

 

Room
Travis A
Description

Want to power up the work that you are doing at home utilizing the tried-and-true talents of the PowerSchool team? Join the team throughout the day in their engagement center. Together, you will find the solutions to power your school communications!

 

 

 

Presenter(s)
Stephanie De los Santos, HCDE
Room
Meeting Suite in Exhibit Hall
Description
Come and test your knowledge at our AP Style Trivia competition. Bring your communication and marketing teams (and your A Game) to battle it out in this exciting competition. May the best school district win! Every participant will leave with an AP Style Quick Reference Guide.
Presenter(s)
Amanda Materre, Alief ISD
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/Marketing
Room
Travis B
Audience Level
All
Description
Accessibility should be at the forefront of any public institution’s communication strategy, and schools are no exception. This interactive session will provide TSPRA members with the tools and knowledge to evaluate and improve their communication plans to meet ADA standards, ensuring no member of the community is left behind. Join us for an enlightening journey through the legal landscape of ADA compliance, case studies of successful inclusive communication strategies in schools, and hands-on workshops that will empower you to design and disseminate content that reaches everyone.

 

Presenter(s)
Eliska Padilla, M.A., Hutto ISD
Area of Focus
Community Engagement
Room
Travis C
Audience Level
All
Description
Discover how Hutto ISD turned tight purse strings into opportunities for growth by implementing a creative community partnership through our Hippo advertising. Learn how we developed an advertising plan for our Hippo Nation Magazine and Hippo Monthly Newsletter to offset rising printing costs while supporting district communication efforts. This session will provide practical strategies to help you build partnerships, generate revenue, and maintain high-quality publications as well as other ways to partner with community businesses and organizations to maximize District resources. Leave with actionable insights that you can implement in your own district.
Room
Travis D
Description
Regardless of your experience level, we all can use a thought partner. Hone your skills and talent under the guidance of renowned K-12 Communications Expert Veronica V. Sopher at the TSPRA Conference. Join exclusive group coaching sessions designed for K-12 Communications Professionals and Departments, featuring personalized advice, collaborative learning, and actionable strategies. Limited to four participants per session, these sessions promise a transformative experience to address your unique challenges.

 

Presenter(s)
Jennifer Hines, CPC, Maribel Gutierrez, Tyler ISD
Area of Focus
Community Engagement
Room
Texas Ballroom A
Audience Level
All
Description
Discover how Tyler ISD’s Certified Community Education Specialist Program equips realtors with deep insights into the district’s programs, infrastructure, and educational offerings. Learn how monthly interactive sessions, campus tours, and direct engagement with district leaders turn realtors into district ambassadors with practical tools like Campus at a Glance, School Finder, and Realtor Packet. Explore how this unique initiative fosters collaboration between the real estate industry and education, benefiting both clients and the wider community. This concept can also be applied to community stakeholders.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Crystal Matern, CPC, Gregory-Portland ISD; Gil Perez, Rockport-Fulton ISD; Kelsey Picou, Ingleside ISD
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/Marketing
Room
Crockett A
Audience Level
All
Description
We hear you out there. You’ve been hired as the one-guy/gal-shop in a district. Maybe you’re fairly new to school PR … AND/OR maybe this is the first PR position the district has ever posted, and they just don’t know ‘what to do with you’ yet! (Now what?) Well, your session presenters have each been there and jump-started our own one-person-shops … so we want to help! Let’s turn your perceived nightmares into sweet dreams as we unveil the process to kick-start success; address top-tier strategies for efficiency; discuss relationship-building techniques that will help you ‘win the day’ and make friends doing it; and feature what kind of ‘big wins’ will leave your Superintendent and other leadership wondering where you’ve been all these years … and HOW did they EVER live without you?! If you’re trying to navigate a future that looks hopeful albeit a little cloudy … it’s time for clear skies ahead! Bring your notebook and burning questions for this informative session – then you’ll rest easy knowing your future, and that of your district, is incredibly bright with YOU on deck and armed with knowledge, best practices, and YOUR committed passion for school PR!

 

Presenter(s)
Amy Wade, Xachary Aguilar, Natalie Pegg, Greenville ISD
Area of Focus
Event Planning
Room
Crockett B
Audience Level
All
Description
Join us as we “unlock” the secrets to creating magical staff recognition events! This session will guide you through planning Greenville ISD’s Lion’s Choice Awards, where employee milestones, retirements, and district-wide achievements take center stage. Discover how to craft an unforgettable experience, from building anticipation to delivering a memorable celebration. Whether you’re new to planning or a pro, you’ll leave with the “keys” to making your next event resonate long after the applause fades!

 

Presenter(s)
Christie Goodman, APR, Fellow PRSA, Aurelio Montemayor, M.Ed., IDRA
Area of Focus
Community Engagement
Room
Crockett C
Audience Level
All
Description
Community engagement is more than just getting 30 warm bodies to a meeting. Communities of color, those with low incomes and immigrants want all children to receive an excellent education. Hear stories of how schools and communities have built partnerships based on respect and the shared goal of academic success for every child. And get proven asset-based strategies you can use to constructively engage with your community.

 

Presenter(s)
Monica Faulkenbery, APR, Diana Ely, Northside ISD
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/Marketing
Room
Crockett D
Audience Level
All
Description
Districts are facing declining enrollment for various reasons, but many could maintain stability if they were able to retain the students they currently serve. A strong focus on customer service can play a crucial role in achieving this. Northside ISD implemented a required customer service initiative called “The Northside Experience,” aimed at retaining both students and staff. In this session, we will share the key concepts presented to front-line staff, as well as the training provided to principals and directors on how to exemplify outstanding customer service and foster a positive experience across the district.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Amelia Lindley, Kate Hope, Magnolia ISD; Jo Ann Hernandez, Edgar Arellano, Logan Reuland, Melinda Brasher, Georgetown ISD
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/Marketing
Room
Republic A
Audience Level
All
Description

If You Can’t Pay Them, Support Them: Boosting Internal Morale: This session explores creative strategies to boost morale within your school district, focusing on fostering a positive work environment for all employees. Attendees will hear about the Magnolia ISD Communications team’s Teacher Pop Up Shop, Magnolia Eatery, and other ideas to motivate staff and demonstrate support, even during times of change or challenge.

​​Love on Your Staff & They Will Love You Back: Join us for a chat about how loving your staff can totally transform your storytelling. We’ll dive into simple ways to show appreciation and build real connections. Let’s explore how a supportive environment can open a vibrant line of communication between your comms team and district staff. When you invest in your team’s happiness, they’ll give it back tenfold!

What is a Pair/Share?

A Pair/Share is when similar content is combined to bring you double the knowledge, powered by double the experienced professionals sharing their ideas, initiatives and inspiration!

 

Presenter(s)
Adam Holland, M.S., Walter Jackson, Ed.D., La Porte ISD
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/Marketing
Room
Republic B
Audience Level
All
Description
Join us for an engaging breakout session designed for school public relations practitioners to cultivate a thriving school culture that enhances student success, boosts staff morale, and strengthens community ties. Led by La Porte ISD Superintendent Dr. Walter Jackson, TSPRA’s 2024 Key Communicator, this session will delve into the essence of school culture and its profound impact on branding and community identity. Together, we’ll explore how every stakeholder plays a vital role in shaping a positive and engaging school environment.

 

Presenter(s)
Gustavo Reveles, Christina Rodriguez, Laura Lupia, Dr. Pedro Galaviz, Canutillo ISD
Area of Focus
Bond
Room
Republic C
Audience Level
All
Description
Canutillo ISD failed bonds in 2021 and 2022 to address critical growth needs after a 2011 Bond was seen as a failure in public trust. With no relief in sight and a dismal financial outlook unless infrastructure was addressed, the District regrouped and used key communications and public relations tactics to reverse sentiment and get the 2024 Bond approved by voters.

Noon – 1:30 PM

Lunch on Your Own

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

Sessions

 

Room
Travis A
Description

Want to power up the work that you are doing at home utilizing the tried-and-true talents of the PowerSchool team? Join the team throughout the day in their engagement center. Together, you will find the solutions to power your school communications!

 

 

 

Presenter(s)
Sandra Alboum, Alboum Translation Services
Room
Meeting Suite in Exhibit Hall
Description
Texas schools serve increasingly diverse communities, which means that fast and accurate multilingual communication is essential for student success and parent involvement. Together, we’ll explore practical tools and strategies (both human and computer-aided) for translation (written) and interpretation (spoken) that help schools quickly overcome language barriers, ensuring clear and effective messaging.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Danielle Clark, APR, Stephanie De Los Santos, Lindsey Sanders, Harris County Department of Education
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/Marketing
Room
Travis B
Audience Level
All
Description
Diverse generations in today’s workplace can cause real issues on teams, despite good intentions. Learn about the differences in how each generation in the workplace today views themselves, others and their common behaviors. Hear about how a team with 40 years between the oldest and youngest member have successfully bridged the gap in perspective, style and function. Get tips for how you can create an environment of mutual respect where everyone’s contributions are celebrated.

 

Presenter(s)
Allison Vrana, La Vega ISD
Area of Focus
Education Foundation
Room
Travis C
Audience Level
New Professional
Description
We will review current fundraising methods and models of the La Vega Pirates Education Foundation including their Annual Giving Campaign that raises more than $70,000 from just over 500 employees. We will also explore ways to diversify your fundraising pool and seek to find out donor interests and match with your funding initiatives – seek donors who might want to specifically invest in literacy, food insecurity, academic achievement, etc. We will also include a short mention of using 3rd party fundraising platforms such as DonorsChoose.
Room
Travis D
Description
Regardless of your experience level, we all can use a thought partner. Hone your skills and talent under the guidance of renowned K-12 Communications Expert Veronica V. Sopher at the TSPRA Conference. Join exclusive group coaching sessions designed for K-12 Communications Professionals and Departments, featuring personalized advice, collaborative learning, and actionable strategies. Limited to four participants per session, these sessions promise a transformative experience to address your unique challenges.

 

Presenter(s)
AJ Morgan, Lindsey Fowlkes, ParentSquare
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/Marketing
Room
Crockett A
Audience Level
All
Description
Ready to test your school-home communication savvy? Join us for a fun, fast-paced Family Feud-style game show where Texas school districts face off in a lively competition! We’ll explore real-world parent engagement scenarios, tackle tough communication challenges, and test knowledge about ParentSquare’s features and functionality. Cheer on your favorite team as they race to answer survey-based questions drawn from real district experiences. Who will emerge as the ultimate school-home communication champions? You’ll walk away with fresh strategies, creative solutions, and actionable tips for enhancing parent engagement in your district.

 

Presenter(s)
Valonia Walker, APR, Herbert O’Neil, Hempstead ISD
Area of Focus
Bond
Room
Crockett B
Audience Level
All
Description
In their first bond effort in 18 years, Hempstead ISD’s superintendent-communications duo orchestrated a community victory. Using the Bobcat Blueprint to engage and inform, they led a strategic campaign that overwhelmingly passed each 2024 bond proposition. Learn how this dynamic team built trust, inspired action, and secured funding for vital improvements through long-range facility planning and creative community outreach. Walk away with practical strategies for your own bond campaign success story.
Presenter(s)

Anthony Mireles, Lila Hollin, Teresa Gomez, Michelle Tamez; Channelview ISD
Area of Focus

Crisis
Room

Crockett C
Audience Level

All
Description

Elevate your crisis communication workflow with the Elgato Stream Deck. This powerful tool, beloved by content creators, can revolutionize your PR workflow. With just a button press, streamline your crisis response, saving precious seconds when they matter most. Discover how this compact device can centralize and accelerate your critical crisis communications.

 

Presenter(s)
Veronica Castillon, APR, Julio Ovando, Laredo ISD; Evelyn Sames, Patricia Muyshondt, Karla Gonzalez, Sames Auto Group
Area of Focus
Community Engagement
Room
Crockett D
Audience Level
All
Description
Partnering with local businesses can help your school district get into the fast lane for student success. Presenters will demonstrate how LISD partners with businesses to promote student attendance and staff recognition. Winners drive away with a new car tax, title, and license included. The presentation includes videos, scripts, entry forms, and press releases. Presenters will share tips on how to make the big ask, what’s in it for the company, and how to make your partners feel appreciated.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Truman Young, Kaitlin Paonessa, Jordan Ziemer, Ph.D., Abilene ISD
Area of Focus
Electronic Media Production
Room
Republic A
Audience Level
New Professional
Description
As a new Communications Specialist in your district, you may feel like a jack of all trades but master of none, navigating the choppy waters of photography, videography, and graphic design. The sea of responsibilities can be overwhelming, but fear not! In this presentation, you’ll discover valuable tips, tricks, and practical advice to help you chart your course effectively, ensuring you thrive in your role and sail smoothly toward your district’s communication goals.

 

Presenter(s)
Matthew Thompson, Kurtis Quillin, Copperas Cove ISD
Area of Focus
Web
Room
Republic B
Audience Level
All
Description
This workshop is tailored for school district communications professionals aiming to craft interactive and engaging web documents that meet WCAG 2.2 Accessibility standards. Learn how to leverage Canva and Adobe InDesign to produce eye-catching, dynamic content that’s fully accessible—without the hassle of using Acrobat. From streamlining PDF form creation to developing accessible brochures and posters, this session will help you deliver inclusive, compliant designs while maintaining your creative freedom.

 

Presenter(s)
Nancy Barboza, MBA, Rocio Landin, Sergio Esquivel, Sharyland ISD
Area of Focus
Media Relations
Room
Republic C
Audience Level
All
Description
Effective media relations are key to shaping public perception and fostering trust. In this session, the Sharyland ISD Media Team shares proven best practices from its Quarterly Media Partner Roundtables. Participants will explore techniques for proactive engagement, learn how to position their district as a credible news source and develop strategies to manage both routine coverage and crises with transparency, ensuring long-term positive relationships with local media outlets.

2:45 PM – 3:45 PM

Sessions

 

Room
Travis A
Description

Want to power up the work that you are doing at home utilizing the tried-and-true talents of the PowerSchool team? Join the team throughout the day in their engagement center. Together, you will find the solutions to power your school communications!

 

Presenter(s)
Jacqueline Franco, MBA, Alexandria Cantu, Corpus Christi ISD
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/Marketing
Room
Travis B
Audience Level
All
Description
Ready to trade your chalkboard for a keyboard? Join us for an informative journey into the digital realm! We’ll explore the wild world of websites and social media, turning technophobic teachers into online aficionados. Learn to navigate your school site without getting lost, post on social media without embarrassing yourself, and create a classroom webpage that won’t crash computers.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Michelli Ramon, Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist and Owner Bird & Branch, PLLC
Area of Focus
Work/Life Balance
Room
Travis C
Audience Level
All
Description

Michelli Ramon is a therapist, writer and self-proclaimed obsessive over-achiever. The “Work/Life Balance Made Simple” workshop is a masterclass in self-care with a surprising twist. Participants will learn:

  1. The science of self-care and balance.
  2. Secret ways to therapy yourself that other therapists don’t want you to know.
  3. The names of both Michelli’s children and the ways they conspire against her life balance.
Room
Travis D
Description
Regardless of your experience level, we all can use a thought partner. Hone your skills and talent under the guidance of renowned K-12 Communications Expert Veronica V. Sopher at the TSPRA Conference. Join exclusive group coaching sessions designed for K-12 Communications Professionals and Departments, featuring personalized advice, collaborative learning, and actionable strategies. Limited to four participants per session, these sessions promise a transformative experience to address your unique challenges.
Presenter(s)

Jami Bauer, Barbers Hill ISD
Area of Focus

Communications/PR/Marketing
Room

Crockett A
Audience Level

All
Description

In today’s diverse workforce, understanding generational perspectives is crucial for fostering effective collaboration. This interactive session will explore the unique norms and values of different generations within your team, helping participants identify common misunderstandings that can hinder communication and cooperation. Through engaging discussions and practical exercises, attendees will gain insights into bridging generational gaps, enhancing empathy, and cultivating a more inclusive team environment. Join us to learn how to leverage the strengths of all generations, ultimately driving collaboration and improving overall team dynamics.

 

Presenter(s)
Becky Volk, Mark Bishop, Arlington ISD
Area of Focus
Electronic Media Production
Room
Crockett B
Audience Level
All
Description
So, you’re a one-person-band covering social media for your district and you’re not the best photographer to begin with. In Arlington ISD, we incorporated the use of volunteer photographers, of professional-level skills that have upped our social media game. When it comes to photographs on social media, it’s high quality images that capture the emotion of the subject and elicit feelings in the viewer that stir up the most engagement. Here’s our experience.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Lexie Greathouse, Lamondi Fields, Judson ISD
Area of Focus
Event Planning
Room
Crockett C
Audience Level
All
Description
Discover how to plan vibrant, budget- friendly events. Learn how to create immersive guest experiences, understand your audience, and implement innovative ideas whether it’s for your education foundation or school district initiatives. Gain insights into partnering with student event planners through project – based learning models, providing hands – on experience. Attendees will leave with resources to craft memorable events that blend, tradition, culture, and educational opportunities, creating a true FIESTA!
Presenter(s)

Ashley Thomas, Wichita Falls ISD
Area of Focus

Community Engagement
Room

Crockett D
Audience Level

All
Description

In 2020, Wichita Falls ISD passed a bond to build two new high schools, closing three existing ones and ending decades-old traditions, sparking community division. Join a veteran school PR professional to learn how the district engaged with alumni, students, staff, and the community to build support for the new schools and traditions. Gain insights into effective communication strategies that led to the successful opening of two new high schools in Fall 2024.

 

Presenter(s)
Dr. Tommie Smith, Galena Park ISD; Justin Elbert, Klein ISD; Bruce Ellis, TCEA; Maritza Loera, HCDE
Area of Focus
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Room
Republic A
Audience Level
All
Description
Join this panel of distinguished TSPRAns as they share their journeys with AI adoption in school PR, exploring the mix of fear and faith along the way. From overcoming hesitation to embracing AI for communication and crisis management, panelists will offer practical insights and inspire confidence in integrating new technology into school PR strategies.
Presenter(s)

Brandon Buckner, Little Elm ISD
Area of Focus

Graphic Arts
Room

Republic B
Audience Level

All
Description

Join fellow graphic designers in this dynamic, one-hour workshop designed to foster collaboration and innovation within our creative community. Share your unique workflows, exchange valuable tips, and explore new ideas that can elevate your design practice. This is a fantastic opportunity to network, gain fresh insights, and inspire each other in a supportive environment.

 

Presenter(s)
Gerardo Sanchez, Rolando Garza, Mission CISD
Area of Focus
Electronic Media Production
Room
Republic C
Audience Level
All
Description
Take your photography to the next level by mastering the fundamentals of exposure! In this session, you’ll learn how ISO, shutter speed, and aperture work together to create stunning images. Whether you want to freeze action, create dramatic motion blur, or achieve beautifully blurred backgrounds, understanding exposure is key to unlocking your artistic vision. This session will break down the “Exposure Triangle” and provide practical tips for balancing light, adjusting settings, and experimenting with creative effects. Join us and discover how to turn everyday moments into extraordinary photographs! Perfect for: Beginner to intermediate photographers looking to gain confidence in manual mode and refine their creative style.

4:15 PM – 5:15 PM

Sessions

 

Room
Travis A
Description

Want to power up the work that you are doing at home utilizing the tried-and-true talents of the PowerSchool team? Join the team throughout the day in their engagement center. Together, you will find the solutions to power your school communications!

 

 

Presenter(s)
Lisa Losasso Jackson, We Go Public
Area of Focus
Work/Life Balance
Room
Travis B
Description
Lisa Losasso Jackson shares the moves she has made to support a healthy lifestyle, side- stepping the stress of the day, embracing some new moves, while enjoying the fellowship of colleagues and friends!
Presenter(s)

AndreAnna Tate, Irving ISD
Area of Focus

Communications/PR/Marketing
Room

Travis C
Audience Level

All
Description

Who better to tell the story of your district than the main characters you serve – your students! This is how the Irving ISD Student Influencer program was born. In this session, you’ll learn innovative strategies to amplify student voices, increase brand awareness and grow your district’s social media. Invest in the next generation and empower your students to take the lead in shaping your district’s narrative.
Room
Travis D
Description
Regardless of your experience level, we all can use a thought partner. Hone your skills and talent under the guidance of renowned K-12 Communications Expert Veronica V. Sopher at the TSPRA Conference. Join exclusive group coaching sessions designed for K-12 Communications Professionals and Departments, featuring personalized advice, collaborative learning, and actionable strategies. Limited to four participants per session, these sessions promise a transformative experience to address your unique challenges.

 

Presenter(s)
Jami Bauer, Barbers Hill ISD; Travis Cram, EdVantage
Area of Focus
Bond
Room
Crockett A
Audience Level
All
Description
Join us for an engaging one-hour BOND presentation dedicated to crafting a successful school bond strategy. We’ll share valuable insights and real-world examples for managing multiple propositions effectively. Discover the essential elements of a winning bond initiative, including strategic planning through data, clear communication, and active community engagement. Learn how to implement your bond initiatives efficiently and effectively. This session will provide you with practical tools to ensure a successful election.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Mercedes Mayer, Kim Raymond, Aledo ISD
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/ Marketing
Room
Crockett B
Audience Level
All
Description
Aledo ISD focuses on communicating with staff and making sure they feel connected, loved/recognized and supported. We love a good meme or bitmoji in our staff emails, but it goes beyond that with many different layers throughout the year, including personal notes, staff recognition campaigns, retention surveys, casual but planned superintendent visits to campus, and so much more. Join staff members from AISD Communications and Human Resources to see how they accomplish this together!
Presenter(s)

Matthew Sustaita, Region One Education Service Center
Area of Focus

Web
Room

Crockett C
Audience Level

All
Description

Learn how you can improve your website’s usability with a few tips and insights without getting too tangled up in code, learn how to quantify people’s reaction to your home page and use tools like google analytics to see what events are actually happening on your website.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Justin Warnasch, Allison Suarez, Tomball ISD
Area of Focus
Community Engagement
Room
Crockett D
Audience Level
All
Description
The Tomball ISD communications team was presented with the opportunity to create an internal marketing campaign for a districtwide realignment of all campus attendance boundaries in preparation for four new schools opening over the next three years. Were people happy about it? Come join us as we reveal our processes and perhaps some surprising outcomes.
Presenter(s)
Dr. Nathan Buhl, Finalsite
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/Marketing
Room
Republic A
Audience Level
All
Description
We’ve all dealt with them…those types of parents. However challenging, effective communication with all individuals is key to a strong school community. This workshop categorizes common parent types and offers tailored strategies for engaging with each. From the overly involved to the know-it-alls and those missing in action, learn about managing expectations, fostering positive interactions, and building collaborative relationships.

 

 

Presenter(s)
Amaris McIntosh, Avery Arizola, Region One Education Service Center
Area of Focus
Communications/PR/ Marketing
Room
Republic B
Audience Level
Advanced Professional
Description
Explore the intricacies and capabilities of Facebook campaign performance in this advanced session. Attendees will explore KPI metrics, Pixel Data, Engagement & Video Insights and learn how to conduct and leverage A/B testing. We’ll explore how to leverage external tools like Google Analytics and UTM codes to improve tracking, and navigate Meta Business Suite to pull key reporting metrics that help districts refine and optimize their campaigns for greater success.

 

Presenter(s)
Jon Tai, Tai Magic
Area of Focus
Work/Life Balance
Room
Republic C
Audience Level
All
Description
What do you think is one of the most important tools in magic? Is it the cards and props? Your hands? Knowledge and secrets? Yes, all of those can be important and crucial, but more than any of that, it’s storytelling. It’s using all the specific tools at your disposal to tell stories of improbable and impossible and wondrous things. In this workshop, yes, Jon will teach you a couple of magic tricks. But more than just tricks, he will show you how you can use simple deceptions to create true experiences of astonishment. And how these stories that we create for others can resonate through their lives…and back into our own.

4:15 PM – 5:30 PM

Work/Life Balance
TSPRA Fun Walk/Run – On the River Walk (Sponsored by Edlio)

6:30 PM – 7:00 PM

Star Awards Reception (Lobby/Pre-Function Area)
Self-pay bar (credit/debit card only)

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Ticket Required
Star Awards Celebration (Texas Ballroom A, B, C)

9:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Star Awards After-Party (Texas Ballroom D, E, F)
Self-pay bar (credit/debit card only)