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


Friday Sessions

Breakfast   (Friday 7:30am-8:30am)

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

Session 1   (Friday 10:30am-12:00pm)

Personalizing Your Communications in a Virtual Setting
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Marian Sebe
Virtual spaces may oftentimes seem large and lack personalization. Creating a personalized space through multi media options can add warmth, personality and fun to your day-to-day communications to further engage learners.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ASE, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLE, OEA)
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)
Making Adult Ed Data More Meaningful and Actionable
Demonstration (90 minute)
Crystal James
Have you ever wished you could do more with Excel, but you didn’t know where to start? (merging, conditional columns, formulas) With the right prompts, you can use ChatGPT as a teacher to learn just what you need to learn for your specific goals. In this presentation, we will go over the capabilities and basics of Powerquery (a tool built into Excel) and talk about how Twin Rivers Adult School has used it along with AI to help make some essential reports more actionable and visible.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLM, OEA, PAC)
Oh, What a Gem You Are: Exploring Google Gemini for Educators
Demonstration (90 minute)
Farzana Cassim
This session provides an overview of Google Gemini, focusing on what the tool can do today. Through live demonstrations, participants will explore Gemini’s multimodal capabilities, including working with text and images, to better understand how it supports thinking, communication, and access to information. The session emphasizes realistic use cases, current limitations, and appropriate use alongside human judgment.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE)
Level Up Learning: Building Digital & ESL Skills, LBC Style
Demonstration (90 minute)
Nicole Lopez (w/ Lisa Busch)
This highly engaging & energizing presentation highlights Northstar Digital Literacy and Ellii, two platforms that support success in today’s digital & workforce-driven environment. The session traces the evolution of our DLAC journey, from digital literacy workshops for ESL learners to Northstar for essential digital skills & Ellii for high-quality ESL curriculum & resources. These tools strengthen instruction, engagement, & alignment while building confidence for purposeful implementation.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLM, PAC)

Lunch   (Friday 12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 2   (Friday 1:00pm-2:00pm)

Click, Tap, Learn: 7 Keys to Accessible, Student-Centered Websites
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Carolyn "Dr. Q" Quetzal
Unlock the secrets to creating adult education websites that work for everyone! This session reveals seven critical design strategies—intuitive navigation, mobile responsiveness, accessibility, second language support, and more—using wvoc.net as a live model. Learn how these principles boost enrollment, enhance student satisfaction, and deliver measurable impact.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, OEA)
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)
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)
Challenges in Adult Education: Recruitment, Remote Testing and Retention
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Maria Elena Gomez-Lecaro (w/ Twyla Eva)
Jefferson Adult Online is in its third year. Our primary challenges are the "Three Rs": Recruitment, Remote Testing, and Retention. This presentation will examine the obstacles we have encountered in addressing these critical areas.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ESL, PAA, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLM, OEA)
FuturePlay with Open Innovation Centers in the Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Clare Bhakta (w/ Jateen Bhakta)
Explore New Collar Skills—high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees. In this interactive session, participants rotate through hands-on stations featuring 3D printing, AI, and Virtual Reality. Guided by Open Innovation Centers staff, you’ll experiment and play, then leave with two practical, low-tech ways to bring innovation and confidence into your classroom right away.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)

Session 3   (Friday 2:15pm-3:45pm)

Designing for Equity: A Course for Accessible Digital Learning in Adult Ed
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Penny Pearson (w/ Debbie Jensen)
Discover practical ways to make adult education digital content accessible and equitable. Based on the Accessibility Training for AE Teachers course, this session provides an overview of the course contents, including UDL, WCAG 2.2, and Section 508. The course allows a self-paced approach to learning with instruction on how to apply alt text, headings, color contrast, captions, and other tools. Leave with accessibility resources so every learner can access and succeed, online and in class.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE)
AI-assisted Story Creation for Students
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Barry Bakin
Bring the power of AI-Assisted Story Creation to students for pleasure reading, assignments, family literacy, and exciting personal projects! Learn how to use AI and other Apps to create both the text and the images for imaginative storytelling and book creation!
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLE, OEA)
Beyond Static Examples: Using AI to Build Interactive Examples for Students
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Matt Rhoads
Move beyond static examples and learn to create dynamic, interactive tutorials for any subject. This hands-on lab demystifies using generative AI as a powerful instructional design partner. No coding required! We will walk through a practical workflow: crafting effective prompts, refining AI-generated HTML code, and deploying the finished tutorial directly into your LMS. This session provides a replicable process to build engaging, step-by-step learning experiences and time to build your own.
(AUD: TEA, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLE, DLM, OEA)
Canvas Made Easy with Bite-Size Training
Demonstration (90 minute)
Arezoo Miller (w/ Henry Mulak)
Discover how a uniform Canvas shell can simplify teaching and boost student success. Our team will share how we identified needs, set goals, and turned challenges into collaboration. In this workshop, you’ll get ideas on building templates, creating step-by-step guides, and developing resources that you can use right away to streamline courses, support digital literacy, and empower adult learners in any subject.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)
FuturePlay with Open Innovation Centers in the Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Clare Bhakta (w/ Jateen Bhakta)
Explore New Collar Skills—high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees. In this interactive session, participants rotate through hands-on stations featuring 3D printing, AI, and Virtual Reality. Guided by Open Innovation Centers staff, you’ll experiment and play, then leave with two practical, low-tech ways to bring innovation and confidence into your classroom right away.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, DLM)

Session 4   (Friday 4:00pm-5:00pm)

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)
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)
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)
Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, 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)
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)
Crafting Narratives: Gemini Storybook for Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Susan Gaer
Unlock a powerful new tool for adult learning. This session demonstrates how the Gemini Storybook feature transforms complex topics, historical events, technical concepts, or professional scenarios into engaging, visually rich, and fully narrated 10-page storybooks. Learn to generate personalized, level-appropriate, and shareable content for literacy, language, and vocational training, making abstract ideas concrete and memorable.
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)
Exploring AR, VR, and 3D Learning Tools Across Programs in Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Farzana Cassim
This session invites educators to explore emerging technologies through a guided tech playground featuring AR, VR headsets, ClassVR, and zSpace 3D tools. Designed for ESL, Academic, and CTE programs, participants will examine how these tools support language development, academic learning, and hands-on career training. The focus is on practical classroom applications and informed use rather than novelty.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE)

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

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)
Integrating Technology to Support Beginning Literacy in Adult ESL
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Cristiane Galvao
Adult learners need opportunities to develop English and digital skills at the same time. When used together in class, digital tools and print-based activities create a balanced approach that supports language development and digital literacy for ESL beginning literacy students.This online session will explore how ESL educators can integrate technology to their lessons. Participants will follow-along a sequence from teacher-led instruction to guided practice and independent learner practice.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ESL, WFP • CAT: EEA, DLE, OEA)
Speed Dating with AI Tools
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Elaine Pham (w/ Jolene Shields)
This is a hands-on workshop designed to introduce instructors to a variety of AI tools that can support lesson planning, content creation, and curriculum development. Attendees will rotate through quick demos of different tools and leave with practical ideas they can apply right away. Recommendation: please create a new Gmail account ahead of time to explore and test the AI tools during the workshop.
(AUD: TEA, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLE, OEA)
Tech Playground
Demonstration (90 minute)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, PAC)

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)
Water & Watts & Words - Oh My!
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Carolyn "Dr. Q" Quetzal
Looking for eco-friendlier ways to use AI - Learn how to craft AI prompts that get the answers you need without the extra energy drain. This session teaches “eco-friendlier prompting,” so educators and students can work smarter, greener, and faster while using AI responsibly.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, ESL, PAA, CTE, WFP • CAT: DLF, DLE, OEA)
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)
Access to Impact:Equitable Learning for Adult and Justice-Impacted Learners
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Tory Wadlington
Digital access alone is not equity. This session explores how adult education and correctional education programs can intentionally design digital learning experiences that remove barriers, support adult learners with disabilities, and meet the unique needs of incarcerated youth. Participants will examine practical strategies grounded in UDL and adult learning theory to move from access to meaningful engagement.
(AUD: TEA, ADM, STF • PGM: ABE, ASE, AWD, WFP • CAT: EEA, DLF, DLE)
Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
(AUD: STF, TEA, ADM • PGM: ASE, PAA, CTE, WFP, ABE, AWD, ESL • CAT: EEA, DLE, PAC)

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)

Session 1  
(10:30am-12:00pm)

Personalizing Your Communications in a Virtual Setting
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Marian Sebe
Virtual spaces may oftentimes seem large and lack personalization. Creating a personalized space through multi media options can add warmth, personality and fun to your day-to-day communications to further engage learners.

Room 1 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

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.
Making Adult Ed Data More Meaningful and Actionable
Demonstration (90 minute)
Crystal James
Have you ever wished you could do more with Excel, but you didn’t know where to start? (merging, conditional columns, formulas) With the right prompts, you can use ChatGPT as a teacher to learn just what you need to learn for your specific goals. In this presentation, we will go over the capabilities and basics of Powerquery (a tool built into Excel) and talk about how Twin Rivers Adult School has used it along with AI to help make some essential reports more actionable and visible.

Room 8 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Oh, What a Gem You Are: Exploring Google Gemini for Educators
Demonstration (90 minute)
Farzana Cassim
This session provides an overview of Google Gemini, focusing on what the tool can do today. Through live demonstrations, participants will explore Gemini’s multimodal capabilities, including working with text and images, to better understand how it supports thinking, communication, and access to information. The session emphasizes realistic use cases, current limitations, and appropriate use alongside human judgment.

Room 9 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Level Up Learning: Building Digital & ESL Skills, LBC Style
Demonstration (90 minute)
Nicole Lopez (w/ Lisa Busch)
This highly engaging & energizing presentation highlights Northstar Digital Literacy and Ellii, two platforms that support success in today’s digital & workforce-driven environment. The session traces the evolution of our DLAC journey, from digital literacy workshops for ESL learners to Northstar for essential digital skills & Ellii for high-quality ESL curriculum & resources. These tools strengthen instruction, engagement, & alignment while building confidence for purposeful implementation.
Room 17
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Lunch  
(12:00pm-1:00pm)

Session 2  
(1:00pm-2:00pm)

Click, Tap, Learn: 7 Keys to Accessible, Student-Centered Websites
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Carolyn "Dr. Q" Quetzal
Unlock the secrets to creating adult education websites that work for everyone! This session reveals seven critical design strategies—intuitive navigation, mobile responsiveness, accessibility, second language support, and more—using wvoc.net as a live model. Learn how these principles boost enrollment, enhance student satisfaction, and deliver measurable impact.

Room 4 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

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.
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.
Challenges in Adult Education: Recruitment, Remote Testing and Retention
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Maria Elena Gomez-Lecaro (w/ Twyla Eva)
Jefferson Adult Online is in its third year. Our primary challenges are the "Three Rs": Recruitment, Remote Testing, and Retention. This presentation will examine the obstacles we have encountered in addressing these critical areas.
Room 17
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
FuturePlay with Open Innovation Centers in the Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Clare Bhakta (w/ Jateen Bhakta)
Explore New Collar Skills—high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees. In this interactive session, participants rotate through hands-on stations featuring 3D printing, AI, and Virtual Reality. Guided by Open Innovation Centers staff, you’ll experiment and play, then leave with two practical, low-tech ways to bring innovation and confidence into your classroom right away.
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.

Session 3  
(2:15pm-3:45pm)

Designing for Equity: A Course for Accessible Digital Learning in Adult Ed
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Penny Pearson (w/ Debbie Jensen)
Discover practical ways to make adult education digital content accessible and equitable. Based on the Accessibility Training for AE Teachers course, this session provides an overview of the course contents, including UDL, WCAG 2.2, and Section 508. The course allows a self-paced approach to learning with instruction on how to apply alt text, headings, color contrast, captions, and other tools. Leave with accessibility resources so every learner can access and succeed, online and in class.
Room 3
In-person only
Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
AI-assisted Story Creation for Students
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Barry Bakin
Bring the power of AI-Assisted Story Creation to students for pleasure reading, assignments, family literacy, and exciting personal projects! Learn how to use AI and other Apps to create both the text and the images for imaginative storytelling and book creation!

Room 5 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Beyond Static Examples: Using AI to Build Interactive Examples for Students
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Matt Rhoads
Move beyond static examples and learn to create dynamic, interactive tutorials for any subject. This hands-on lab demystifies using generative AI as a powerful instructional design partner. No coding required! We will walk through a practical workflow: crafting effective prompts, refining AI-generated HTML code, and deploying the finished tutorial directly into your LMS. This session provides a replicable process to build engaging, step-by-step learning experiences and time to build your own.

Room 6 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
This presentation has been saved to your schedule.
Canvas Made Easy with Bite-Size Training
Demonstration (90 minute)
Arezoo Miller (w/ Henry Mulak)
Discover how a uniform Canvas shell can simplify teaching and boost student success. Our team will share how we identified needs, set goals, and turned challenges into collaboration. In this workshop, you’ll get ideas on building templates, creating step-by-step guides, and developing resources that you can use right away to streamline courses, support digital literacy, and empower adult learners in any subject.
Room 17
In-person only
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FuturePlay with Open Innovation Centers in the Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Clare Bhakta (w/ Jateen Bhakta)
Explore New Collar Skills—high-tech skills that don’t require four-year degrees. In this interactive session, participants rotate through hands-on stations featuring 3D printing, AI, and Virtual Reality. Guided by Open Innovation Centers staff, you’ll experiment and play, then leave with two practical, low-tech ways to bring innovation and confidence into your classroom right away.
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
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Session 4  
(4:00pm-5:00pm)

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
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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
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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
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Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
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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

Evaluation
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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

Evaluation
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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

Evaluation
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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

Evaluation
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Crafting Narratives: Gemini Storybook for Adult Education
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Susan Gaer
Unlock a powerful new tool for adult learning. This session demonstrates how the Gemini Storybook feature transforms complex topics, historical events, technical concepts, or professional scenarios into engaging, visually rich, and fully narrated 10-page storybooks. Learn to generate personalized, level-appropriate, and shareable content for literacy, language, and vocational training, making abstract ideas concrete and memorable.
Room 17
In-person only
Evaluation
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Exploring AR, VR, and 3D Learning Tools Across Programs in Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
Farzana Cassim
This session invites educators to explore emerging technologies through a guided tech playground featuring AR, VR headsets, ClassVR, and zSpace 3D tools. Designed for ESL, Academic, and CTE programs, participants will examine how these tools support language development, academic learning, and hands-on career training. The focus is on practical classroom applications and informed use rather than novelty.
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
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Session 6  
(10:30am-12:00pm)

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

Evaluation
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Integrating Technology to Support Beginning Literacy in Adult ESL
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Cristiane Galvao
Adult learners need opportunities to develop English and digital skills at the same time. When used together in class, digital tools and print-based activities create a balanced approach that supports language development and digital literacy for ESL beginning literacy students.This online session will explore how ESL educators can integrate technology to their lessons. Participants will follow-along a sequence from teacher-led instruction to guided practice and independent learner practice.

Room 4 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
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Speed Dating with AI Tools
Follow-along Workshop (90 minute)
Elaine Pham (w/ Jolene Shields)
This is a hands-on workshop designed to introduce instructors to a variety of AI tools that can support lesson planning, content creation, and curriculum development. Attendees will rotate through quick demos of different tools and leave with practical ideas they can apply right away. Recommendation: please create a new Gmail account ahead of time to explore and test the AI tools during the workshop.
Room 17
In-person only
Evaluation
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Tech Playground
Demonstration (90 minute)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
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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

Evaluation
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Water & Watts & Words - Oh My!
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Carolyn "Dr. Q" Quetzal
Looking for eco-friendlier ways to use AI - Learn how to craft AI prompts that get the answers you need without the extra energy drain. This session teaches “eco-friendlier prompting,” so educators and students can work smarter, greener, and faster while using AI responsibly.

Room 4 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
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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

Evaluation
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Access to Impact:Equitable Learning for Adult and Justice-Impacted Learners
Follow-along Workshop (60 Minutes)
Tory Wadlington
Digital access alone is not equity. This session explores how adult education and correctional education programs can intentionally design digital learning experiences that remove barriers, support adult learners with disabilities, and meet the unique needs of incarcerated youth. Participants will examine practical strategies grounded in UDL and adult learning theory to move from access to meaningful engagement.

Room 8 and Online
Presenter on Zoom

Evaluation
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Tech Playground
Demonstration (60 Minutes)
OTAN Staff
The Tech Playground is an interactive space where you can explore, experiment, and experience the latest in emerging technology! Get hands-on with technology and see firsthand how these tools are shaping the future of education. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about what’s next, this is your chance to test, play, and discover in a fun and welcoming environment. Bring your curiosity and get ready to dive into the world of cutting-edge technology!
Room 18
In-person only
Evaluation
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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

Evaluation
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