Schedule

The schedule for TDLS is presented on this page. Use the filter buttons below to sort sessions by day, audience, strands, etc. For sessions you wish to attend, click the “Star” () to add the session to “My TDLS” which allows you at any time to review your customized schedule. Once a presentation begins, click the “Join now!” button. After the session, return to the session and choose the “Evaluation” link to provide our presenters with feedback on their presentations.

Schedule Icons


The password for all online sessions is tdls26.

Friday Sessions

Breakfast   (Friday 7:30am-8:30am)

Welcome & Keynote   (Friday 8:45am-10:15am)

Joyful and Resilient Teaching for Adult Learners
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Roni Habib
In this interactive and energizing session, explore how to strengthen social and emotional intelligence—personal and learner—to create learning environments where adults feel respected, engaged, and empowered. Gain practical tools to bring more joy, connection, and meaning into teaching while supporting learner persistence, confidence, and growth. A highly interactive, experiential session—expect reflection, connection, and moments of fun that model what effective adult learning can feel like.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: EEA, OEA, SSS)

Session 1   (Friday 10:30am-12:00pm)

Leveraging Tech Partnerships to Advance Digital Equity in Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Dr. Adrienne Ann Mullen (w/ Karyn Ruiz)
This session highlights how strategic partnerships with educational technology providers, including Aztec Software, support equity-focused outcomes by reducing opportunity gaps and strengthening learner engagement. Participants will explore how aligned digital tools and instructional practices can expand access and improve learning experiences across adult education pathways.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, CTE, WFP • CAT: EEA)
Teach Students to Use Technology; Make Their Lives Easier
Demonstration (90 minute)
Johanna Gleason (w/ Amanda Simons)
Many newcomers to the United States encounter technology for the first time when they arrive here, and therefore, are at a huge disadvantage in terms of navigating life in their new environment. Many of these students are reluctant to learn how to use technology. This presentation gives ideas for inspiring low-literacy English language learners to learn to use technology so that they can fully participate in society here.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, AWD, ESL, WFP • CAT: EEA, DLF, SSS)
Write with AI oh mAI!
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Francisco Pinedo Jr.
Participants will learn how to use AI as a tool for the writing process for students. Examples of how AI is used to aid the writing process will be shown. Participants are encouraged to have an AI account (Chat GPT, Gemini, Claude,etc) to use during the Follow-along workshop. Participants are also encouraged to bring student writing samples to facilitate the follow-along activities.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLF, DLE)
NotebookLM in Action: Curate, Create, and Podcast with AI YOU Control
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Dana Thompson
Adult educators are overwhelmed by AI tools that pull from the whole web, making accuracy and relevance uncertain. NotebookLM offers a solution by grounding AI responses in your own materials—lesson plans, curriculum, program documents, or standards. With features like auto-generated summaries and podcasts, it provides a practical, trustworthy way to support instruction and planning while preserving context and educator voice.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLF, DLE)

Lunch   (Friday 12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 2   (Friday 1:00pm-2:00pm)

Joining OTAN Digital Leadership Academy & Developing Community Partnerships
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Liset Caudillo (w/ Maria Elena Mendoza)
Come hear what DLAC is all about and how your participation can help further your schools technology goals to enhance student learning. Listen to a Non-Profits DLAC journey and the impact it has made to teacher instruction. Stay for a discussion on establishing effective community partnerships and the importance of consistent networking
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: OEA, SSS, PAC)
The Folsom Prison Blues Remix: Using Canvas to Unlock Potential Behind Bars
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Rachel Kralyevich (w/ Shannon Woods-Principal of Greystone Adult School)
I hear that whistle blowin' down the cellblock line. Greystone's got a mission, got a master plan in mind. Smart Boards on the walls and laptops in the room. CANVAS is the answer, gonna chase away the gloom. Technology's the pathway to a better life ahead. Education's the foundation, that's what all the teachers said. That online education, it's a lifeline in the night. Smart Boards and the laptops shinin' bright. We adjust, we adapt, we find another way. CANVAS behind the walls is here to stay.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE • CAT: DLM, CRR, PAC)
Fontana Adult School Ready: Your Learning & Digital Journey Begins
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Rosa Cauble (w/ Maria Camacho)
Empower your students with the digital skills they need to thrive! Fontana Adult School builds essential technology competencies for success through their Digital Literacy Orientation and computer basics. Students gain hands-on experience with Office 365, OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, and email to participate effectively in classes. This orientation fosters confidence, supports digital learning, and prepares learners to use technology for academic success and workplace readiness.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ESL, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF)
Human First: Teaching SEL to Adult Learners in the Age of AI
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Tory Wadlington
Technology and AI are transforming education—but adult learners still need strong social-emotional skills to thrive. This session explores practical strategies for teaching SEL in digital learning environments, empowering adult learners to develop self-awareness, resilience, collaboration, and critical thinking in a tech-driven world.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)
Using Digital Tools to Assess Learning in HyFlex Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Yesica Tello
Abstract: This session explores practical digital tools that support engagement and assessment in HyFlex adult ESL, ABE, and workforce classrooms. Participants will experience tools such as Google Forms, Kahoot, Quizizz, Padlet, and Mentimeter and learn how to use them for formative and summative assessment across in-person and online settings. Emphasis is placed on accessibility, mobile-friendly design, and supporting learners with varied language and digital skills.
(AUD: TEA • PGM: ABE, ESL, WFP • CAT: OEA)

Session 3   (Friday 2:15pm-3:45pm)

An Introduction into TOPSpro Enterprise (TE) Portals
Demonstration (90 minute)
Adrian Boggess
TOPSpro Enterprise Portals are easy-to-use web-based applications designed for different level of users, from administrators to teachers to students and other roles in between. The intuitive interface provides agency, class, and student level data with customizable views and reports. TE Portals use the same database as TE, which makes the application work seamlessly with TOPSpro Enterprise (TE), CASAS eTests and TE Classmate.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, OEA, PAC)

Session 4   (Friday 4:00pm-5:00pm)

From Pilot to Practice: Porterville Adult School’s Northstar Journey
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Jeff Bochat (w/ Valerie Craig)
Today we will be exploring the use of Northstar Digital Literacy with adult learners. Adult learners above the age of 30 need this program, and what is offered to progress through our other systems that are in place at Porterville Adult School.
(AUD: ADM, TEA • PGM: AWD, ABE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ASE, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLF, DLE)
Sustaining Digital Transformation Through DLAC
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Nada (Neda) Anasseri
Join DLAC leads and participants to explore how a two-year digital leadership pathway can transform your adult education program. Panelists will share successes, challenges, and strategies for aligning technology integration with continuous improvement, equity, and leadership culture. Attendees will gain actionable insights and drive to apply for the next cohort (2026-2028).
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, PAC)
Padlet: Swiss Army Knife of EdTech for Adult Educators
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Kristi Reyes
Padlet has long been a favorite digital tool in education, but many adult educators use only a fraction of its capabilities. This interactive session demonstrates how Padlet, with its newer and often overlooked features, serves as the “Swiss Army knife” of EdTech: versatile, adaptable to many teaching contexts, and engaging for adult learners in both synchronous and asynchronous settings.
(AUD: TEA • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLE, OEA)
Breaking Barriers: Advancing Digital Equity in Correctional Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Jerry Yamashita (w/ Gina Wandell)
Learn how secure digital platforms advance digital equity in correctional education by expanding access to standards-aligned learning for programs serving diverse adult learners—from English language acquisition and basic skills to career training and high school completion or equivalency. Gain insights into implementing secure digital ecosystems that combine LMS, courseware, and custom content to improve engagement, continuity, and data visibility—even in restrictive environments.
(AUD: TEA, ADM • PGM: ABE, ASE, ESL, CTE • CAT: EEA, DLE, CRR)
From TikTok to Teaching: Microlearning for Adult Learners
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Alayna Effinger
Discover how microlearning and short-form content can boost engagement and retention for adult learners. This session explores mobile-first strategies, TikTok-style mini lessons, and AI tools to quickly create bite-size instruction for ESL, ABE/HSE, and CTE classes. Walk away with ready-to-use templates and practical workflows you can implement immediately.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)
21st Century 1-Room Schoolhouse: Onboarding in a Mixed-level Classroom.
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Robert Gomez
By the end of this workshop, participants will gain an understanding of how this HSE teacher matriculates and integrates adult learners with the aid of technological resources.
(AUD: TEA, ADM • PGM: ABE, ASE • CAT: DLE, DLM, OEA)
Assessment Tracker
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Daniel Cutler (w/ Angelica Diaz-Roman)
This presentation presents a unique tracker created by Monterey Adult School to monitor CASAS scores and EL Civics scores all in one place. The tracker allows you to see which students received level gains and passed their Civics assessments. It is a very comprehensive view of your students progress and performance.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, PAC)

Saturday Sessions

Breakfast   (Saturday 8:00am-9:00am)

Session 5   (Saturday 9:15am-10:15am)

Building Healthcare Pathways: From Concept to Classroom
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Jessie Morales
This session reveals how a Healthcare Pathways program was built from concept to classroom. Learn the steps used to create industry-aligned curriculum, integrate LMS tools like Canvas, and form strong community partnerships. Attendees will gain practical strategies, lessons learned, and a clear roadmap to build or enhance their own healthcare training programs.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ESL, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLE, SSS, PAC)
LMS to Deliver Individualized Instruction in a Diverse ESL Classroom
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Marina Filistovich (w/ Tim Wheeler)
In this session, we’ll dive into how a learning management system can be leveraged to meet the diverse, individualized needs of adult vocational and integrated skills ESL students. We’ll showcase how to tailor instruction for learners in fields like healthcare, hospitality, construction, and more. Attendees will see practical examples of diagnosing student needs and using the LMS to deliver personalized, multi-level learning experiences.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ESL, PAA, WFP • CAT: DLE)
Intro to Computers for All Levels
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Yecsenia Castro (w/ Elisia Doonan)
This presentation introduces practical, accessible approaches to teaching computer basics to learners of all levels, including neurodivergent students, individuals with disabilities, and older adults.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLM, OEA, SSS)
Online Engagement and Assessment Strategies for GED® and HiSET® Learners
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Greg Larson (w/ Karyn Ruiz)
This session explores effective strategies for engaging adult learners in online GED® and HiSET® preparation courses. Drawing on best practices from Greg Larson (adult education instructor at Los Angeles City College) and Karyn Ruiz (adult educator and Aztec Software Senior National Academic Specialist), participants will examine how digital curricula and assessment tools can inform instruction, support differentiation, and increase learner engagement in virtual and hybrid environments.
(AUD: TEA, ADM • PGM: ABE, ASE • CAT: OEA)
Expand Your Reach through Digital Learning
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Jake Baldwin (w/ Yanira Chavez)
Learn about how Burbank Adult School is expanding their ESL program into the digital world! What started as a solution to long wait lists has become a way to serve a myriad of student populations. Burbank worked to develop and has since iterated upon a completely online ESL Level 2 class.
(AUD: TEA, ADM • PGM: ESL • CAT: PAC)
One OER Canvas Course, Many Pathways: Engaging Adult ESL Learners Online
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Diana Vera-Alba (w/ Chris Vela-Che)
This session showcases an open, self-paced ESL OER Canvas course designed for adult ESL learners. Participants will explore a nine-module course model that integrates real-world topics, assessments, and discussions to support online, hybrid, and HyFlex instruction. Presenters will demonstrate how shared OER design in Canvas Commons increases learner engagement, instructional consistency, and access across adult education programs.
(AUD: TEA, ADM • PGM: ABE, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)
From Principles to Practice: Using the Digital Learning Guidance
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Joey Lehrman (w/ Anthony Burik)
An interactive introduction to OTAN’s 2026 California Adult Education Digital Learning Guidance, highlighting practical ways programs can use it to guide professional learning, program design, and accessible digital instruction. The session also previews a 10-week facilitated cohort designed to bring the DLG into practice. Register for the upcoming cohort at https://bit.ly/DLG_Course
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)

Session 6   (Saturday 10:30am-12:00pm)

AI in Action: A Live Student Experience with MagicSchool.AI
Demonstration (90 minute)
Audrey Dierdorff
Step into your students’ shoes and experience MagicSchool.AI as an adult learner! This interactive demonstration invites educators to explore how AI tools can enhance instruction, engagement, and support in adult education. Discover practical applications and leave with ideas to bring AI into your own classroom.
(AUD: TEA • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLE, DLM, OEA)
CANCELED: Best Buzz on Tech Tips for the Teacher Professional
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Dana Sanchez
This is a fun "mish mash" of resources! Teachers will be reminded of old apps, old websites, old ways of teaching and integrating tech into their classrooms; while learning new apps, new websites, new ways of teaching and integrating tech into their classrooms. This presentation will run for 90 min and give the audience an opportunity to build their "Super Tech Teacher" skills. They will learn ways to bring it all together in classroom with tech tips that will be vital to their teaching clarity.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLE)
AI as a Classroom Ally: Making Digital Learning Interactive in Adult Ed
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Jerry Yamashita (w/ Angela Rodriguez)
As adult education adapts distance learning and independent study to evolving technology, AI offers innovative ways to engage learners—from ESL conversation practice to ASE research projects. This interactive workshop demonstrates how to transform courseware assignments into AI-powered peer discussions and personalized support tools. Participants gain strategies to foster collaboration, strengthen digital and AI literacy, and boost engagement in virtual and blended learning across programs.
(AUD: TEA, ADM • PGM: ABE, ASE • CAT: EEA, DLE, OEA)
Empowering Adult Learners with the Triple E Framework Learn, Engage, Extend
Demonstration (90 minute)
Debbie Jensen (w/ Susan Coulter)
Explore how the Triple E Framework–Engage, Enhance, Extend–prioritizes learning first and technology second, to improve student success. Join this 90 minute session to discover Triple E backed strategies and a rubric designed for easy use. Participants will practice applying the rubric. They leave with tools to evaluate and elevate tech integration in their classrooms. Included is information about the self-paced Canvas course, how to sign up and earn Continuing Education Units.
(AUD: TEA • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)

Lunch   (Saturday 12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 7   (Saturday 1:00pm-2:00pm)

CANCELED: From Barriers to Breakthroughs: Accessible Technology in Action
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Lynne Ruvalcaba
Discover practical, accessible technology tools that help every adult student succeed, regardless of language background, literacy level, or learning difference. This interactive session equips educators with free and low-cost solutions including text-to-speech, translation tools, assistive technology, and Universal Design for Learning strategies. Learn to remove barriers, personalize instruction, and become a technology leader who champions equity in your classroom and school.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, CRR)
Power Up Your Teaching with OTAN’s Free Canvas Courses
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Miranda Currie (w/ Debbie Jensen)
Explore OTAN’s free Canvas courses available through Canvas Commons for all adult education programs. Learn how to copy and personalize courses for your own blended, hybrid, remote, or in-person classes. Participants will explore available courses, choose one to try, and learn how access a free OTAN Canvas account for their school.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)
Why and How to Create An AI Policy for the Classroom
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Maricel Manglicmot
We will look at how to create, and discuss, a classroom policy for AI use in the classroom using available models.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ASE • CAT: DLF)
Empowering Adult ESL Learners through Audio Storytelling
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Katrina Tamura (w/ Kristi Reyes)
Explore how to integrate student audio-storytelling projects into your instruction. Learn how these projects build language and digital soft skills, support course goals, and empower learners. Participants will experience sample activities and materials that serve as authentic assessments, build student agency, and highlight diverse narratives and lived experiences of immigrant students.
(AUD: TEA • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLF, OEA)

Tech Slam   (Saturday 2:15pm-3:15pm)

Tech Slam and Closing
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Slam traditionally closes each TDLS. A Tech Slam is where you show everyone something "tech" you know or something you learned during TDLS that you think everyone should know. Each presentation is three minutes, you can present in person or virtually, and you can sign up to present at the start of the Tech Slam. All tech tips are encouraged!
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLE, OEA, PAC)

Schedule

The schedule for TDLS is presented on this page. Use the filter buttons below to sort sessions by day, audience, strands, etc. For sessions you wish to attend, click the “Star” () to add the session to “My TDLS” which allows you at any time to review your customized schedule. Once a presentation begins, click the “Join now!” button. After the session, return to the session and choose the “Evaluation” link to provide our presenters with feedback on their presentations.

Show More

Schedule Icons


Friday Sessions

Breakfast  
(7:30am-8:30am)

Welcome & Keynote  
(8:45am-10:15am)

Joyful and Resilient Teaching for Adult Learners
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Roni Habib
In this interactive and energizing session, explore how to strengthen social and emotional intelligence—personal and learner—to create learning environments where adults feel respected, engaged, and empowered. Gain practical tools to bring more joy, connection, and meaning into teaching while supporting learner persistence, confidence, and growth. A highly interactive, experiential session—expect reflection, connection, and moments of fun that model what effective adult learning can feel like.

M.U.R. and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Session 1  
(10:30am-12:00pm)

Leveraging Tech Partnerships to Advance Digital Equity in Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Dr. Adrienne Ann Mullen (w/ Karyn Ruiz)
This session highlights how strategic partnerships with educational technology providers, including Aztec Software, support equity-focused outcomes by reducing opportunity gaps and strengthening learner engagement. Participants will explore how aligned digital tools and instructional practices can expand access and improve learning experiences across adult education pathways.

Room 3 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Teach Students to Use Technology; Make Their Lives Easier
Demonstration (90 minute)
Johanna Gleason (w/ Amanda Simons)
Many newcomers to the United States encounter technology for the first time when they arrive here, and therefore, are at a huge disadvantage in terms of navigating life in their new environment. Many of these students are reluctant to learn how to use technology. This presentation gives ideas for inspiring low-literacy English language learners to learn to use technology so that they can fully participate in society here.

Room 4 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Write with AI oh mAI!
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Francisco Pinedo Jr.
Participants will learn how to use AI as a tool for the writing process for students. Examples of how AI is used to aid the writing process will be shown. Participants are encouraged to have an AI account (Chat GPT, Gemini, Claude,etc) to use during the Follow-along workshop. Participants are also encouraged to bring student writing samples to facilitate the follow-along activities.

Room 5 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
NotebookLM in Action: Curate, Create, and Podcast with AI YOU Control
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Dana Thompson
Adult educators are overwhelmed by AI tools that pull from the whole web, making accuracy and relevance uncertain. NotebookLM offers a solution by grounding AI responses in your own materials—lesson plans, curriculum, program documents, or standards. With features like auto-generated summaries and podcasts, it provides a practical, trustworthy way to support instruction and planning while preserving context and educator voice.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Lunch  
(12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 2  
(1:00pm-2:00pm)

Joining OTAN Digital Leadership Academy & Developing Community Partnerships
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Liset Caudillo (w/ Maria Elena Mendoza)
Come hear what DLAC is all about and how your participation can help further your schools technology goals to enhance student learning. Listen to a Non-Profits DLAC journey and the impact it has made to teacher instruction. Stay for a discussion on establishing effective community partnerships and the importance of consistent networking

Room 3 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
The Folsom Prison Blues Remix: Using Canvas to Unlock Potential Behind Bars
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Rachel Kralyevich (w/ Shannon Woods-Principal of Greystone Adult School)
I hear that whistle blowin' down the cellblock line. Greystone's got a mission, got a master plan in mind. Smart Boards on the walls and laptops in the room. CANVAS is the answer, gonna chase away the gloom. Technology's the pathway to a better life ahead. Education's the foundation, that's what all the teachers said. That online education, it's a lifeline in the night. Smart Boards and the laptops shinin' bright. We adjust, we adapt, we find another way. CANVAS behind the walls is here to stay.

Room 5 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Fontana Adult School Ready: Your Learning & Digital Journey Begins
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Rosa Cauble (w/ Maria Camacho)
Empower your students with the digital skills they need to thrive! Fontana Adult School builds essential technology competencies for success through their Digital Literacy Orientation and computer basics. Students gain hands-on experience with Office 365, OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, and email to participate effectively in classes. This orientation fosters confidence, supports digital learning, and prepares learners to use technology for academic success and workplace readiness.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Human First: Teaching SEL to Adult Learners in the Age of AI
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Tory Wadlington
Technology and AI are transforming education—but adult learners still need strong social-emotional skills to thrive. This session explores practical strategies for teaching SEL in digital learning environments, empowering adult learners to develop self-awareness, resilience, collaboration, and critical thinking in a tech-driven world.

Room 8 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Using Digital Tools to Assess Learning in HyFlex Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Yesica Tello
Abstract: This session explores practical digital tools that support engagement and assessment in HyFlex adult ESL, ABE, and workforce classrooms. Participants will experience tools such as Google Forms, Kahoot, Quizizz, Padlet, and Mentimeter and learn how to use them for formative and summative assessment across in-person and online settings. Emphasis is placed on accessibility, mobile-friendly design, and supporting learners with varied language and digital skills.

Room 9 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Session 3  
(2:15pm-3:45pm)

An Introduction into TOPSpro Enterprise (TE) Portals
Demonstration (90 minute)
Adrian Boggess
TOPSpro Enterprise Portals are easy-to-use web-based applications designed for different level of users, from administrators to teachers to students and other roles in between. The intuitive interface provides agency, class, and student level data with customizable views and reports. TE Portals use the same database as TE, which makes the application work seamlessly with TOPSpro Enterprise (TE), CASAS eTests and TE Classmate.

Room 8 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Session 4  
(4:00pm-5:00pm)

From Pilot to Practice: Porterville Adult School’s Northstar Journey
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Jeff Bochat (w/ Valerie Craig)
Today we will be exploring the use of Northstar Digital Literacy with adult learners. Adult learners above the age of 30 need this program, and what is offered to progress through our other systems that are in place at Porterville Adult School.

Room 1 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Sustaining Digital Transformation Through DLAC
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Nada (Neda) Anasseri
Join DLAC leads and participants to explore how a two-year digital leadership pathway can transform your adult education program. Panelists will share successes, challenges, and strategies for aligning technology integration with continuous improvement, equity, and leadership culture. Attendees will gain actionable insights and drive to apply for the next cohort (2026-2028).

Room 3 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Padlet: Swiss Army Knife of EdTech for Adult Educators
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Kristi Reyes
Padlet has long been a favorite digital tool in education, but many adult educators use only a fraction of its capabilities. This interactive session demonstrates how Padlet, with its newer and often overlooked features, serves as the “Swiss Army knife” of EdTech: versatile, adaptable to many teaching contexts, and engaging for adult learners in both synchronous and asynchronous settings.

Room 4 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Breaking Barriers: Advancing Digital Equity in Correctional Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Jerry Yamashita (w/ Gina Wandell)
Learn how secure digital platforms advance digital equity in correctional education by expanding access to standards-aligned learning for programs serving diverse adult learners—from English language acquisition and basic skills to career training and high school completion or equivalency. Gain insights into implementing secure digital ecosystems that combine LMS, courseware, and custom content to improve engagement, continuity, and data visibility—even in restrictive environments.

Room 5 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
From TikTok to Teaching: Microlearning for Adult Learners
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Alayna Effinger
Discover how microlearning and short-form content can boost engagement and retention for adult learners. This session explores mobile-first strategies, TikTok-style mini lessons, and AI tools to quickly create bite-size instruction for ESL, ABE/HSE, and CTE classes. Walk away with ready-to-use templates and practical workflows you can implement immediately.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
21st Century 1-Room Schoolhouse: Onboarding in a Mixed-level Classroom.
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Robert Gomez
By the end of this workshop, participants will gain an understanding of how this HSE teacher matriculates and integrates adult learners with the aid of technological resources.

Room 8 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Assessment Tracker
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Daniel Cutler (w/ Angelica Diaz-Roman)
This presentation presents a unique tracker created by Monterey Adult School to monitor CASAS scores and EL Civics scores all in one place. The tracker allows you to see which students received level gains and passed their Civics assessments. It is a very comprehensive view of your students progress and performance.

Room 9 and Online
Hybrid

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Saturday Sessions

Breakfast  
(8:00am-9:00am)

Session 5  
(9:15am-10:15am)

Building Healthcare Pathways: From Concept to Classroom
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Jessie Morales
This session reveals how a Healthcare Pathways program was built from concept to classroom. Learn the steps used to create industry-aligned curriculum, integrate LMS tools like Canvas, and form strong community partnerships. Attendees will gain practical strategies, lessons learned, and a clear roadmap to build or enhance their own healthcare training programs.

Room 1 and Online
Hybrid

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LMS to Deliver Individualized Instruction in a Diverse ESL Classroom
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Marina Filistovich (w/ Tim Wheeler)
In this session, we’ll dive into how a learning management system can be leveraged to meet the diverse, individualized needs of adult vocational and integrated skills ESL students. We’ll showcase how to tailor instruction for learners in fields like healthcare, hospitality, construction, and more. Attendees will see practical examples of diagnosing student needs and using the LMS to deliver personalized, multi-level learning experiences.

Room 3 and Online
Hybrid

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Intro to Computers for All Levels
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Yecsenia Castro (w/ Elisia Doonan)
This presentation introduces practical, accessible approaches to teaching computer basics to learners of all levels, including neurodivergent students, individuals with disabilities, and older adults.

Room 4 and Online
Hybrid

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Online Engagement and Assessment Strategies for GED® and HiSET® Learners
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Greg Larson (w/ Karyn Ruiz)
This session explores effective strategies for engaging adult learners in online GED® and HiSET® preparation courses. Drawing on best practices from Greg Larson (adult education instructor at Los Angeles City College) and Karyn Ruiz (adult educator and Aztec Software Senior National Academic Specialist), participants will examine how digital curricula and assessment tools can inform instruction, support differentiation, and increase learner engagement in virtual and hybrid environments.

Room 5 and Online
Hybrid

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Expand Your Reach through Digital Learning
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Jake Baldwin (w/ Yanira Chavez)
Learn about how Burbank Adult School is expanding their ESL program into the digital world! What started as a solution to long wait lists has become a way to serve a myriad of student populations. Burbank worked to develop and has since iterated upon a completely online ESL Level 2 class.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

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One OER Canvas Course, Many Pathways: Engaging Adult ESL Learners Online
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Diana Vera-Alba (w/ Chris Vela-Che)
This session showcases an open, self-paced ESL OER Canvas course designed for adult ESL learners. Participants will explore a nine-module course model that integrates real-world topics, assessments, and discussions to support online, hybrid, and HyFlex instruction. Presenters will demonstrate how shared OER design in Canvas Commons increases learner engagement, instructional consistency, and access across adult education programs.

Room 8 and Online
Hybrid

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From Principles to Practice: Using the Digital Learning Guidance
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Joey Lehrman (w/ Anthony Burik)
An interactive introduction to OTAN’s 2026 California Adult Education Digital Learning Guidance, highlighting practical ways programs can use it to guide professional learning, program design, and accessible digital instruction. The session also previews a 10-week facilitated cohort designed to bring the DLG into practice. Register for the upcoming cohort at https://bit.ly/DLG_Course

Room 9 and Online
Hybrid

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Session 6  
(10:30am-12:00pm)

AI in Action: A Live Student Experience with MagicSchool.AI
Demonstration (90 minute)
Audrey Dierdorff
Step into your students’ shoes and experience MagicSchool.AI as an adult learner! This interactive demonstration invites educators to explore how AI tools can enhance instruction, engagement, and support in adult education. Discover practical applications and leave with ideas to bring AI into your own classroom.

Room 1 and Online
Hybrid

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CANCELED: Best Buzz on Tech Tips for the Teacher Professional
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Dana Sanchez
This is a fun "mish mash" of resources! Teachers will be reminded of old apps, old websites, old ways of teaching and integrating tech into their classrooms; while learning new apps, new websites, new ways of teaching and integrating tech into their classrooms. This presentation will run for 90 min and give the audience an opportunity to build their "Super Tech Teacher" skills. They will learn ways to bring it all together in classroom with tech tips that will be vital to their teaching clarity.

Room 3 and Online
Hybrid

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AI as a Classroom Ally: Making Digital Learning Interactive in Adult Ed
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Jerry Yamashita (w/ Angela Rodriguez)
As adult education adapts distance learning and independent study to evolving technology, AI offers innovative ways to engage learners—from ESL conversation practice to ASE research projects. This interactive workshop demonstrates how to transform courseware assignments into AI-powered peer discussions and personalized support tools. Participants gain strategies to foster collaboration, strengthen digital and AI literacy, and boost engagement in virtual and blended learning across programs.

Room 5 and Online
Hybrid

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Empowering Adult Learners with the Triple E Framework Learn, Engage, Extend
Demonstration (90 minute)
Debbie Jensen (w/ Susan Coulter)
Explore how the Triple E Framework–Engage, Enhance, Extend–prioritizes learning first and technology second, to improve student success. Join this 90 minute session to discover Triple E backed strategies and a rubric designed for easy use. Participants will practice applying the rubric. They leave with tools to evaluate and elevate tech integration in their classrooms. Included is information about the self-paced Canvas course, how to sign up and earn Continuing Education Units.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

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Lunch  
(12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 7  
(1:00pm-2:00pm)

CANCELED: From Barriers to Breakthroughs: Accessible Technology in Action
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Lynne Ruvalcaba
Discover practical, accessible technology tools that help every adult student succeed, regardless of language background, literacy level, or learning difference. This interactive session equips educators with free and low-cost solutions including text-to-speech, translation tools, assistive technology, and Universal Design for Learning strategies. Learn to remove barriers, personalize instruction, and become a technology leader who champions equity in your classroom and school.

Room 3 and Online
Hybrid

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Power Up Your Teaching with OTAN’s Free Canvas Courses
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Miranda Currie (w/ Debbie Jensen)
Explore OTAN’s free Canvas courses available through Canvas Commons for all adult education programs. Learn how to copy and personalize courses for your own blended, hybrid, remote, or in-person classes. Participants will explore available courses, choose one to try, and learn how access a free OTAN Canvas account for their school.

Room 5 and Online
Hybrid

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Why and How to Create An AI Policy for the Classroom
Panel or Facilitated discussion (60 minutes)
Maricel Manglicmot
We will look at how to create, and discuss, a classroom policy for AI use in the classroom using available models.

Room 6 and Online
Hybrid

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Empowering Adult ESL Learners through Audio Storytelling
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Katrina Tamura (w/ Kristi Reyes)
Explore how to integrate student audio-storytelling projects into your instruction. Learn how these projects build language and digital soft skills, support course goals, and empower learners. Participants will experience sample activities and materials that serve as authentic assessments, build student agency, and highlight diverse narratives and lived experiences of immigrant students.

Room 9 and Online
Hybrid

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Tech Slam  
(2:15pm-3:15pm)

Tech Slam and Closing
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Slam traditionally closes each TDLS. A Tech Slam is where you show everyone something "tech" you know or something you learned during TDLS that you think everyone should know. Each presentation is three minutes, you can present in person or virtually, and you can sign up to present at the start of the Tech Slam. All tech tips are encouraged!

M.U.R. and Online
Hybrid

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