Best Practices for CTE Administrators Conference 2026: Full Schedule

9:45am MDT

CTE & Core Content Subjects Unite Through Contextual/Integrated Learning

Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT

As highlighted in the ACTE publication “Synergizing Success: Academic and Career Integration for CTE” by Richard D. Jones and Jill Ranucci, innovative CTE and math teachers collaborated to teach two distinct courses that integrate math standards into CTE programs. Join us in exploring AMPED on Algebra and Geometry in Construction. Each program combines the best aspects of Project-Based and Work-Based Learning, awarding math credit through CTE. Since 2005, this contextual/integrated model has positively impacted students nationwide and is utilized within our school district as the exemplary model for High School Reimagined work and attaining students' Durable Skills.

These programs include robust, hands-on activities that go beyond simple simulations. Participants will also receive links to curricular materials, enabling them to experience these proven activities and teaching strategies firsthand. Our mission for every student is mastery through authentic projects that bring learning to life and positively impact the community.

Speakers

Scott Burke

Coordinator of Contextual Learning & Teacher at Green Mountain High School, Jefferson County Public Schools

Scott Burke is in his 26th year as an administrator, classroom teacher, and an innovative pioneer in contextual/integrated learning. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with others to develop three contextual programs: Geometry in Construction - est. in 2005 AMPED on Algebra... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am MDT
Mt. Oxford

Concurrent Session

2:30pm MDT

The Human Advantage: Emotional Intelligence and AI-Assessed Durable Skill Development

Wednesday October 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT

Mt. Oxford

As technology accelerates, workplaces are demanding more than technical expertise, they require human skills that machines cannot replace. Emotional Intelligence (EI) has become a defining factor in adaptability, leadership, collaboration, and long-term workforce success. Yet, these skills have often been undervalued because they are difficult to measure and teach with precision.
This session introduces a new approach to strengthening and measuring these critical human capabilities through AI-powered Durable Skills Assessment. Participants will explore how emotional intelligence, adaptability, communication, and self-awareness can be both developed and measured using intelligent tools that provide actionable insights. This session bridges the gap between human-centered skill development and cutting-edge assessment technology to better prepare individuals for the future of work.

Speakers

Sera Anello

Partner Engagement and Growth, IMAGO

An adventure seeker and mountain explorer at heart, Sera Anello brings the same spirit of curiosity to her work in education. She began her career as a classroom teacher and Climate and Culture lead, where she discovered the power of brain-based strategies, soft skills, and human... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Mt. Oxford

4:00pm MDT

Career Insights Academy: Partnering With Your Chamber of Commerce to Strengthen Business and Industry Partnerships

Wednesday October 7, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Mt. Oxford

Bentonville Schools Career and Technical Education Department and the Bentonville Chamber of Commerce collaborate to provide strong business and industry partnerships for our students and teachers. Through an annual event called the Career Insights Academy, educators and partners engage in industry tours and collaborative workshops that result in high level internships for students, externships for teachers, and strong partnerships for all of our 16 career pathways. Partners learn the value of serving as mentors, mock interviewers, pitch competition judges and intership facilitators.

Speakers

Sarah Henderson

Melinda Bunyard

Director of Career and Technical Education, Bentonville School District

Melinda Bunyard is the Director of Career and Technical Education for Bentonville School District in Bentonville, Arkansas. With 25 years of experience in education, she has taught at the elementary, secondary, and higher education levels in both traditional and virtual learning... Read More →

Wednesday October 7, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Mt. Oxford

Concurrent Session

8:00am MDT

Make Education Relevant With Catapult Masterclass

Thursday October 8, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am MDT

Mt. Oxford

The heart of any educational transformation lies not with programs or policy alone, but with educators themselves. We must empower and equip educators to lead change locally to Make Education Relevant so that all students graduate world-ready with a competitive advantage. This will require a new hybrid-flexible approach to our K-16 professional development to evolve both mindsets and metrics. Leveraging Dr. Fleming’s research and experience, participants will gain a fresh perspective on new teacher induction and enhancing professional learning – at scale. Gain insight into how Catapult Masterclass drives institutional change, foster continuous improvement, and galvanizes support for career-connected learning.

Speakers

Kevin Fleming

CEO, Catapult Masterclass

Dr. Kevin Fleming received the 2025 ACTE Postsecondary Leadership Award and serves as the Founder and CEO of Catapult Masterclass. A 25+ year administrator, he has also produced multiple, viral animation videos including Success in the New Economy, and authored four books including... Read More →

Thursday October 8, 2026 8:00am - 9:00am MDT
Mt. Oxford

Concurrent Session