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Tuesday, May 5
 

10:45am CDT

Catching Students Before They Fall: A Weekly MTSS Early Warning System That Moved Freshman On-Track from 61% to 87% and Ranked #1 in Truancy Reduction
Tuesday May 5, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Schools often identify struggling students only after they are already failing, disengaged, or chronically absent. This session will highlight how Proviso Township High School District 209 redesigned its MTSS Early Warning System to shift from reactive interventions to weekly, preventative support for every student.


Participants will learn how the district implemented weekly BAG Reports (Behavior, Attendance, and Grades) that are shared with families and reviewed by school teams to monitor the progress of every student. Through consistent weekly data reviews, staff identify early warning signs, assign timely interventions, and track impact before students fall off track academically or disengage from school.
As a result of this system-wide approach, the district increased freshman on-track rates from 61% to 87% in one year, ranked #1 in Illinois for reduction in chronic truancy, and #5 statewide for reductions in chronic absenteeism. This session will walk participants through the structures, routines, and leadership decisions that made these gains possible—without adding unsustainable workload to staff.


Attendees will leave with a replicable framework for implementing weekly early warning systems, sample protocols for data review meetings, strategies for engaging families through transparent communication, and guidance on aligning MTSS practices with student wellness and prevention goals.
Speakers
DJ

Dr. Jennifer Kirmes

Deputy Superintendent, Proviso Township High School District 209
Dr. Jennifer Kirmes is the Deputy Superintendent of School Improvement at Proviso Township High Schools District 209, where she leads transformative change with a relentless focus on equity and excellence. With over 15 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and district leader in Chicago, Jen... Read More →
KM

Krish Mohip

Superintendent, Proviso Township High School District 209
Krish Mohip is a nationally recognized education leader with over 25 years of experience transforming public school systems through equity-driven, data-informed leadership. As Superintendent of Proviso Township High Schools District 209, he brings a proven track record of improving... Read More →
Tuesday May 5, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am CDT
Redbird A

1:15pm CDT

De-Escalation in Action: Strategies for Students and Staff
Tuesday May 5, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
This presentation focuses on the art of de-escalation within an educational environment, emphasizing that these skills are universal across all interpersonal interactions. The session transitions from foundational theory, such as remaining calm and setting boundaries, to specific, high-stress scenarios involving both students and colleagues. By prioritizing empathy, non-threatening communication, and the "power of the pause," the training aims to equip staff with practical tools to maintain professionalism and preserve dignity during conflict. Ultimately, the presentation frames de-escalation not just as a safety measure, but as a critical transferable skill for building a culture of trust and emotional regulation across the entire school community.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Erin Ludwick

Dr. Erin Ludwick

Associate Principal of Student Support Services, Community High School District 99
Prior to her current role as Associate Principal of Student Support Services, Erin Ludwick began her career as an English teacher, instructional leader and coach. She has served in the administrative roles of Student Dean and Assistant Principal of Discipline and Attendance. Erin’s... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Kelly Zuerner

Dr. Kelly Zuerner

Director of Staff Experiences, Community High School District 99
Dr. Kelly C. Zuerner currently serves as the Director of Staff Experiences and previously as Associate Principal for Staff & Students at Downers Grove North High School in Community High School District 99. With over 28 years of experience in public education, she has led initiatives... Read More →
Tuesday May 5, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm CDT
Redbird A

2:30pm CDT

Self-Worth: The Basis for Mental Health for our Students and for Us
Tuesday May 5, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Self-worth is crucial for overall mental health. You will learn how to evaluate the impact of self-worth on your life, your students' lives, and apply strategies for improvement. You will gain insights into best practices, action research, and evidence-based learning that can be implemented for you and your students. This presentation will help you understand the importance of self-worth and how it can benefit both you and your students. It will provide practical strategies and techniques that can be applied to real-life situations, creating a more positive and supportive school environment.
Speakers
avatar for Noelle Rizzio, PEL, LCPC

Noelle Rizzio, PEL, LCPC

Counselor, Noelle Rizzio, Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Noelle Rizzio is a licensed professional counselor and former school counselor dedicated to helping individuals build self-worth and emotional resilience. With years of experience supporting individuals through life’s transitions, Noelle is passionate about empowering new and seasoned... Read More →
Tuesday May 5, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm CDT
Redbird A
 
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