CCEA Plus 2025 Surf's Up! Riding the Waves of Opportunity

In the classroom, brain breaks are quick, structured breaks using physical movement, mindfulness exercises, or sensory activities like games and riddles. Brain breaks can be done individually or as a whole class. I use them as a whole class exercise and I mix it up every day to keep them as interested as possible.  No matter what the form, brain breaks take only a few minutes of instructional time. They give your students a brief rest from what they’re doing to help their brains shift focus and return ready to work and learn. It can add a little fun to the long class period and with the addition of rewards, may give some students a reason to come to school! I will briefly go over the Science behind Brain Breaks and you will leave with some ready to use ideas and tools to start using them in your classes!

In today’s evolving educational landscape, many students, particularly those with special needs and those attending alternative schools, face unique challenges that often lead them to disengage from learning. As a veteran educator with over 20 years of experience and a passion for motivating students who have given up on learning, Dr. Jordan B. Smith Jr. has developed effective strategies that integrate the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to re-engage and inspire these students. This presentation is based on Dr. Smith's extensive research, his best-selling book 11 Effective Strategies for Teaching Math to Students Who Have Given Up on Learning, and his ongoing work with AI-driven tools to improve learning outcomes. Dr. Smith’s session will offer attendees insights into how AI can be used as a tool to connect with students who feel marginalized or discouraged by traditional teaching methods. AI allows teachers to differentiate instruction, personalize learning paths, and provide immediate feedback that empowers students to see the progress they may have missed in conventional classroom settings. The presentation will walk through specific AI applications that educators can easily integrate into their daily practice, helping students with learning disabilities, ADHD, or those who struggle with self-esteem and motivation. One of the key aspects of this presentation is the Four Directional Pathways model, which Dr. Smith developed as part of his Motivated Classroom Workshop. This model provides a framework for understanding how to approach teaching from multiple angles, whether through curriculum design, cultural relevance, or emotional connection. Attendees will learn how to leverage AI to reinforce each of these pathways, making lessons more engaging and accessible for students who have historically felt left behind. Another focus of the presentation will be AI’s role in creating culturally relevant performance tasks that resonate with students

The Gil Lab/Hope Lab is a credit recovery program designed to meet the needs of our most vulnerable students in Anaheim. These students are either 5th year seniors, former drop outs, or often transitioning back from the juvenile justice system. This program was developed to re-engage these students and ask them to give education a  second (or third) chance. We use hands-on projects, field trips every other week, and incorporate art, food, and humor in order to reach every kid and to make them feel like they have a home. This group stays with one teacher all day, and the class of 20 truly becomes a family. We connect them with resources such as the Department of Rehab, Rising Scholars(college program for formerly incarcerated students), and mental health supports as well as help them secure jobs and make sure they are on the right path once they reach that diploma.  This program has been truly life changing, and we can't wait for you to hear the stories of some of our current scholars (who will be in session).

This workshop is designed specifically for educators seeking effective strategies to engage students in English Language Arts (ELA), particularly those who exhibit a strong aversion to reading and writing. Many students, especially in continuation high school settings, face unique challenges that can hinder their academic motivation and success in ELA. Participants will explore a variety of innovative approaches and practical lesson plans tailored to capture the interest of reluctant readers and writers. We will delve into techniques that foster a supportive learning environment, where students feel empowered to express themselves and develop a genuine appreciation for literature and composition. The workshop will cover key strategies for differentiating instruction, utilizing technology, and integrating real-world contexts that resonate with students' lives. Educators will leave with actionable insights and resources that can be immediately implemented in their classrooms, regardless of subject area. Additionally, we will discuss collaborative approaches that encourage peer interaction and build a sense of community, which can significantly enhance student engagement. By the end of this workshop, participants will be equipped with a toolkit of resources and strategies to inspire and motivate their students, fostering a positive and enriching ELA experience. Join us to transform the way we approach reading and writing in the classroom.

1)  Casting a vision and building team consensus for your school’s literacy plan. 2)  Practical skill building strategies and tools (researched based, simple and effective graphic organizers, and best practices). 3)      Results/data/rewards for growth. 4)  All materials will be provided. 5)  Opportunity drawing for attendees.

This engaging, research-based session explores how the Science of Reading (SoR) transforms alternative high school settings by expanding literacy instruction beyond traditional boundaries. Attendees will learn how SoR-aligned strategies can be adapted to meet the needs of continuation and community school students, many of whom face systemic barriers, skill gaps, and inconsistent learning histories. We’ll share real-world examples from Expanded Learning programs that showcase effective, structured literacy integration, with a focus on equity and acceleration. Practical, ready-to-use tools; including multisensory techniques, diagnostic approaches, and culturally responsive supports; will empower educators to boost reading outcomes during and beyond the school day. We will spotlight Hemet Unified School District’s innovative Expanded Learning model, including its “B4 the Bell” morning engagement initiative, afterschool literacy blocks, and summer programming. These flexible, student-centered programs demonstrate how SoR principles can help close achievement gaps, improve student confidence, and pave the way to graduation and lifelong success.

Join Valley HIgh School teacher Sharon Clark and members of her team as they discuss the history of AVID at Valley High School. They will share an overview of what AVID is and how it has evolved over the years along with AVID strategies, best practices and the impact it can have on our students' lives. In addition, They will talk about how AVID is making a difference for their students and how they are working together as a staff to transform their school by implementing AVID strategies schoolwide. You will leave with new strategies, ideas and  lessons you can use on Monday.