Building Bridges to Success: Strengthening Behavior and Academic Foundations: Full Schedule

Building Bridges to Success: Strengthening Behavior and Academic Foundations

July 22-24 2025 UWF Fort Walton Beach Campus

We’re thrilled to welcome you to three powerful days of learning, connection, and collaboration as we continue building bridges to support all students in Okaloosa County. This year’s institute is designed to equip educators, paraprofessionals, and service providers with strategies that not only address behavior but also strengthen academic outcomes and inclusive practices.

July 22: Blueprint for Success – Laying the Groundwork for Effective Instruction
🔹 Focus: Foundational teaching strategies, explicit instruction, and curriculum unpacking.
July 23: Bridging Behavior – Strategies for Connection & Classroom Success
🔹 Focus: Behavior supports, PBIS, social-emotional learning, and engagement strategies.
July 24: Pathways to Inclusion – Making Learning Accessible for Every Student
🔹 Focus: Universal Design for Learning (UDL), assistive technology, and inclusive practices.

Thank you for joining us on this journey towards building a brighter future for our students.
Warm regards,
Student Intervention Services

You will be able to validate your attendance (Check-In to sessions) using your personal schedule.

8:30am CDT

Morning Message: Connection | Clarity | Consistency

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am CDT

Auditorium

Start each day of the Summer Institute with inspiration, connection, and practical insight during our 30-minute Morning Message sessions. These powerful kick-offs are designed to model strong Tier 1 practices by building community, reinforcing expectations, and centering our purpose for the day. Through stories, strategies, and shared reflection, you’ll leave each morning grounded, motivated, and ready to make meaningful progress for yourself and your students.

Speakers

Erika Peterson

District Intervention Coordinator, OCSD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am CDT
Auditorium

Whole Group

9:00am CDT

RTI in the Classroom: Making It Work for Every Learner

Tuesday July 22, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT

UWF FWB Rm 835

Discover how to bring Response to Intervention (RTI) to life in your classroom with practical tools and strategies that support all students. This session will break down the RTI framework into manageable steps, showing how to use data to identify student needs, implement targeted supports, and monitor progress effectively. Learn how to embed Tier 1, 2, and 3 interventions into your daily routines without feeling overwhelmed—and leave with resources you can use right away.

Speakers

Beke Heald

Student Services Specialist, OCSD

Tuesday July 22, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT
UWF FWB Rm 835

MTSS

9:00am CDT

Structured Teaching: Building Independence and Success for Students LIMITED

Tuesday July 22, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT

UWF FWB Rm 836

Join experts from the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) to explore the power of Structured Teaching—an evidence-based approach designed to support students. This session will focus on creating visually organized, predictable classroom environments that foster independence, reduce anxiety, and increase student engagement. Participants will walk away with practical strategies, real-life examples, and tools to implement Structured Teaching effectively in various classroom settings.

Speakers

Debi Cassidy

Autism Consultant, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD)

Tuesday July 22, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT
UWF FWB Rm 836

Structure & Processes

9:00am CDT

Differentiating Instruction: Meeting Every Learner Where They Are LIMITED

Tuesday July 22, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 460

Presented by FDLRS, this session will guide educators through practical, research-based strategies to differentiate instruction and meet the diverse needs of all learners. Learn how to adjust content, process, and product to ensure access and engagement for every student—whether they're struggling, advanced, or somewhere in between. Through interactive discussion and classroom-ready examples, participants will explore how differentiation can create inclusive, student-centered learning environments that promote growth and success.

Speakers

MaKeysa Rhymer

HRD Specialist, FDLRS

Tuesday July 22, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 460

Instruction

9:00am CDT

Classroom Management: Creating Calm, Consistent, and Connected Classrooms LIMITED

Tuesday July 22, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 355

Join FDLRS for a hands-on session focused on proactive, positive classroom management strategies that support all learners. Discover how to establish clear expectations, build strong teacher-student relationships, and create routines that reduce disruptions and increase engagement. This session will provide practical tools and real-world examples to help you foster a learning environment that is structured, supportive, and student-centered.

Speakers

Deirdre Jackson

Human Resource Development Specialist, FDLRS

Tuesday July 22, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 355

Structure & Processes

11:00am CDT

Lunch LIMITED

Tuesday July 22, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT

Whole Group

12:00pm CDT

Academic Interventions for General Education Classrooms: Bridging Gaps Before They Widen

Tuesday July 22, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 836

This session offers practical, research-based strategies to support students who struggle academically—right within the general education setting. Learn how to identify early signs of learning difficulties, implement Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions, and monitor progress effectively. Participants will walk away with easy-to-implement tools and techniques designed to meet diverse student needs while keeping instruction engaging and inclusive.

Speakers

Debi Cassidy

Autism Consultant, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD)

Tuesday July 22, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 836

MTSS

12:00pm CDT

Collaborative Teaching Partnerships Pt. 1 LIMITED

Tuesday July 22, 2025 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 835

Part 1 of 2 (Part 2 July 24)
In this session, the Florida Inclusion Network will guide participants through the foundations of effective collaborative teaching. The 6-hour professional learning course is designed for teachers who provide in-class supports to students with disabilities in general education settings. It fulfills the requirements of Section 1003.03, Florida Statutes (F.S.), specifically the subsection mandating training in team-teaching methods within one year of assignment. Throughout the session, participants will engage with content from six comprehensive modules, which include:
· Collaborative Teaching Approaches
· Instructional Strategies
· Planning Methods

The course is eligible for Special Education recertification points through the district’s professional learning department. Participants must complete the full 6-hour course and the subsequent follow-up activity to earn these points.

Speakers

Jessica Proctor

Facilitator, FIN

Katie Feliciano

Facilitator, FIN

Tuesday July 22, 2025 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 835

Structure & Processes

1:30pm CDT

Best Practice Strategies for Self-Contained Classes LIMITED

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 836

This session will explore practical, evidence-based approaches tailored to the needs of self-contained classrooms. Participants will dive into classroom organization, instructional planning, behavior supports, and engagement techniques that foster independence, promote growth, and build a positive learning environment. Walk away with ready-to-use ideas that make teaching more effective and learning more meaningful for all students.

Speakers

Debi Cassidy

Autism Consultant, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD)

Tuesday July 22, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 836

Instruction

8:30am CDT

Morning Message: Connection | Clarity | Consistency LIMITED

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am CDT

Auditorium

Speakers

Erika Peterson

District Intervention Coordinator, OCSD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am CDT
Auditorium

Whole Group

9:00am CDT

SEL Strong Start: Harmony Curriculum™ Everyday Practices

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:30am CDT

UWF FWB Rm 355

Start your school year strong by exploring the everyday practices of Harmony Curriculum™—a research-based program designed to build healthy relationships and social-emotional skills in the classroom. In this interactive session, you'll be provided details and expanded features of the Everyday Practices in Harmony Third Edition, including Personal Goals, Meet Up and Buddy Up. You will also learn about Harmony Curriculum™, including Lessons & Activities, that you can implement in your classes right away.

Speakers

Erika Peterson

District Intervention Coordinator, OCSD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:30am CDT
UWF FWB Rm 355

Structure & Processes

9:00am CDT

Advanced Behavior Data Collection: Turning Insights into Action (Part 2) LIMITED

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT

UWF FWB Rm 836

Building on last year’s foundational training, this advanced session takes a deeper dive into effective behavior data collection methods for students with complex needs. Participants will explore how to select and implement the right data tools, analyze trends, and use the data to inform behavior intervention plans (BIPs) and decision-making within the MTSS framework. Through case studies, guided practice, and collaborative discussion, educators will refine their skills in collecting meaningful data that drives real results. This session is ideal for those who already have basic data collection knowledge and are ready to level up their practice.

Speakers

Tisha Melton

Autism Consultant, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD)

I am a certified teacher, Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Certified Trauma and Resilience Specialist . I currently work as an autism consultant for the Florida State University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD).

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT
UWF FWB Rm 836

Behavior

9:00am CDT

Smooth Moves: Mastering Effective Classroom Transitions LIMITED

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT

UWF FWB Rm 835

Classroom transitions can make or break the flow of your day. This session explores practical strategies for creating smooth, efficient transitions that reduce downtime, increase student engagement, and promote positive behavior. Learn how to set clear expectations, use visual and auditory supports, and incorporate routines that work for all learners—including those with special needs. Participants will walk away with ready-to-use tools and techniques to make every transition purposeful and peaceful.

Speakers

Brittellen Luciano

Region 1 Project Manager, SEDNET

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am CDT
UWF FWB Rm 835

Structure & Processes

9:00am CDT

PreKD Classroom Success LIMITED

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 126

Speakers

Liza Smith

TATS Regional Facilitator, TATS

Liza Smith is the Northwest Regional Facilitator with the Technical Assistance and Training System (TATS). TATS supports programs that serve children with disabilities and their early childhood partners. Liza earned her Master of Science (MS) degree in Child Development at Florida... Read More →

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 126

9:00am CDT

Picture This: Visual Supports That Work LIMITED

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT

Auditorium

Join FDLRS for an engaging session on how to effectively use visual supports to enhance communication, behavior, and learning in the classroom. Visuals can reduce anxiety, support routines, and increase understanding for all students—especially those with disabilities. Explore a variety of tools including schedules, first-then boards, choice charts, and task analyses. Participants will walk away with practical strategies and examples they can implement immediately to create a more structured, supportive, and inclusive classroom environment.

Speakers

Caty Andrews

Technology Specialist, FDLRS

Catherine Andrews has worked with Emerald Coast Florida Diagnostic Learning and Resources System (FDLRS) since 2020, working with Assistive and Instruction Technology and as a Human Resource Developer. She has an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and a Master's Degree in... Read More →

Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT
Auditorium

Instruction

11:00am CDT

Lunch LIMITED

Wednesday July 23, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT

Whole Group

12:00pm CDT

SEL Strong Start: Harmony Curriculum™ Lessons and Activities

Wednesday July 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 355

Start your school year strong by exploring the everyday practices of Harmony Curriculum™—a research-based program designed to build healthy relationships and social-emotional skills in the classroom. This interactive training course provides details and expanded features in Harmony Third Edition, with particular focus on Lessons & Activities that you can implement in your classes right away.

Speakers

Erika Peterson

District Intervention Coordinator, OCSD

Wednesday July 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 355

Instruction

12:00pm CDT

Sensory Integration in the Classroom LIMITED

Wednesday July 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 836

This session will explore how sensory processing impacts student behavior, attention, and learning—and how you can design a classroom that meets a wide range of sensory needs. Learn to recognize signs of sensory dysregulation, understand the difference between sensory seekers and avoiders, and implement practical strategies to support regulation and engagement. From simple environmental adjustments to sensory tools and movement breaks, you’ll leave with ideas that can make a big difference in how students feel and function throughout the day.

Speakers

Tisha Melton

Autism Consultant, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD)

Wednesday July 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 836

Structure & Processes

12:00pm CDT

Connecting Behavior, Emotions, & Relationships: Understanding the “Why” Behind What We See LIMITED

Wednesday July 23, 2025 12:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 835

This session dives into the powerful link between student behavior, emotional regulation, and the relationships that support growth. Participants will explore how behavior is often a form of communication and how strong, supportive relationships can help students feel safe enough to learn and thrive. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, educators will learn how to respond to challenging behaviors with empathy, build emotional awareness, and foster classroom environments rooted in connection and trust.

Speakers

Brittellen Luciano

Region 1 Project Manager, SEDNET

Wednesday July 23, 2025 12:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 835

Behavior

1:30pm CDT

Behavior Data Collection Basics LIMITED

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 836

New to collecting behavior data? This beginner-friendly session will break down the essentials of behavior data collection in a way that’s easy to understand and apply. Participants will learn why data matters, what types of data to collect (like frequency, duration, and ABC data), and how to choose the right tool for different student needs. We’ll also explore simple, time-saving strategies for tracking behavior in real classrooms. Whether you're a teacher, paraprofessional, or support staff, this session will give you a solid foundation to support student behavior with clarity and purpose.

Speakers

Tisha Melton

Autism Consultant, Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD)

Wednesday July 23, 2025 1:30pm - 3:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 836

Behavior

8:30am CDT

Morning Message: Connection | Clarity | Consistency LIMITED

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am CDT

Auditorium

Speakers

Erika Peterson

District Intervention Coordinator, OCSD

Thursday July 24, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am CDT
Auditorium

Whole Group

9:00am CDT

Building Positive Habits Early: Behavior Supports for the Elementary Classroom

Thursday July 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 460

This session focuses on implementing Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) at the classroom level to create a consistent, supportive environment for young learners. Participants will explore practical, age-appropriate strategies for teaching expectations, reinforcing positive behavior, and responding to misbehavior in a proactive and respectful way. Designed with elementary students in mind, this session will help teachers build routines, foster strong relationships, and promote a classroom culture where every child feels safe, valued, and ready to learn.

Thursday July 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 460

Behavior

9:00am CDT

Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Ensuring Success for All Students LIMITED

Thursday July 24, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 835

This session will introduce educators to the powerful framework of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and how it supports meaningful access, participation, and progress for every student. Participants will explore the three UDL principles—engagement, representation, and action/expression—and discover how to proactively design lessons that reduce barriers and honor learner variability. Through real classroom examples and practical strategies, educators will walk away with tools to create more inclusive, flexible learning environments that empower all students to succeed.

Speakers

Caty Andrews

Technology Specialist, FDLRS

Thursday July 24, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 835

Instruction

11:00am CDT

Lunch LIMITED

Thursday July 24, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT

Whole Group

12:00pm CDT

Collaborative Teaching Partnerships Pt 2

Thursday July 24, 2025 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 460

Part 2 of 2 (Part 1 July 22)
In this session, the Florida Inclusion Network will guide participants through the foundations of effective collaborative teaching. The 6-hour professional learning course is designed for teachers who provide in-class supports to students with disabilities in general education settings. It fulfills the requirements of Section 1003.03, Florida Statutes (F.S.), specifically the subsection mandating training in team-teaching methods within one year of assignment. Throughout the session, participants will engage with content from six comprehensive modules, which include:
· Laws, Language, and Research
· Communication
· Roles and Responsibilities
The course is eligible for Special Education recertification points through the district’s professional learning department. Participants must complete the full 6-hour course and the subsequent follow-up activity to earn these points.

Speakers

Jessica Proctor

Facilitator, FIN

Katie Feliciano

Facilitator, FIN

Thursday July 24, 2025 12:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 460

Structure & Processes

1:00pm CDT

Cultivating Respect and Responsibility in Secondary Classrooms LIMITED

Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm CDT

UWF FWB Rm 460

In this session, participants will explore proactive, relationship-centered strategies for promoting positive behavior among middle and high school students. Learn how to establish clear expectations, reinforce constructive behaviors, and respond to challenges in a way that fosters student ownership and accountability. This session will highlight practical tools and systems that support a positive classroom culture, reduce disruptions, and build trust—ultimately helping students stay engaged, motivated, and connected to their learning community.

Thursday July 24, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
UWF FWB Rm 460

Behavior

2:00pm CDT

Bridge Builder's Showcase LIMITED

Thursday July 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT

Auditorium

Join us for the Bridge Builder Showcase on Wednesday, July 24th from 2:00–3:00 PM at the UWF Fort Walton Beach Campus! This interactive event highlights the incredible work happening in classrooms across our district. Teachers and staff will share strategies, tools, and ideas that have made a difference for their students—what’s working, why it works, and how it can be adapted by others.
Stroll through our science fair-style exhibits, engage with fellow educators, ask questions, and gather inspiration to take back to your school. Whether you're looking to refine your approach or spark new ideas, the Bridge Builder Showcase is your opportunity to celebrate creativity, collaboration, and the commitment to every student’s success.

Thursday July 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:00pm CDT
Auditorium

Whole Group