We have confirmed three nationally recognized keynote speakers for Rise to the Challenge 2023. We will have Dr. Paul Riccomini as our math strand keynote, Dr. Pete Bowers as our literacy strand keynote, and Dr. Shawn Robinson as our family strand keynote speaker. We will also be able to offer more than 20 breakout sessions over the two days and are so looking forward to amazing ARI sessions and AMSTI sessions along with a wealth of sessions provided by a variety of other Alabama experts and advocates.
Paul Riccomini has been with us before and he provides wonderful math and learning strategy insights. He is a former special education and high school math teacher and has written Math RTI books. Paul will be with us for both days and will do a keynote and two breakout sessions. His “how to teach math” using effective learning strategies is very practical and should fuel the tanks of teachers who work with those with math challenges.
Pete Bowers is the creator of Structured Word Inquiry and Word Works. He will be with us for both days of the conference and has offered to do a deep dive for those who want to sign up for more training on Saturday. He offers solutions for classroom teachers in k-2 and 3-12 which he will share in separate sessions. We are more than excited to be bringing him to Alabama’s teachers this fall. His strategies, when embraced by classroom teachers, are wonderfully compatible with our established science of reading, LETRS. and dyslexia-specific interventions and trainings and will be of benefit to all learners.
Dr. Shawn Robinson, is an adult with dyslexia who has definitely risen to the many challenges experienced by many of our struggling students. He is an author of the Dr. Dyslexia Dude children’s books and he also serves on the IDA International Board of Directors. His inspiring message will encourage educators, parents, and students who are working to rise to dyslexia challenges. He will be with us on Friday with a keynote from 1-2:30 and will provide a breakout session in the family strand at 2:30.
