Learn from peers about best practices and innovative ideas being put into action at literacy programs across our great state. Best of Texas brings together local experts to share their wisdom and experience – and maybe help us all avoid a few pitfalls along the way.
QUICK LINKS FOR THIS BEST OF TEXAS EVENT:
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BASIC DETAILS
This online session will be held on:
Thursday, November 12, 2026
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM (CT)
Stay after the session ends for optional discussion, Q&A, and other conversation between 2:00 PM and 2:30 PM.
The Zoom room will open to registered attendees at 12:50 PM.
Please arrive on time – the Zoom room will close to late arrivals 30 minutes after the session begins.
This online learning session is offered free of charge to Texas nonprofit professionals who work in the fields of adult and family literacy.
ABOUT THIS MONTH'S TOPIC
It’s important for teachers and tutors of adult literacy to be aware of learning differences and disabilities. After all, this is a common reason for a student to have difficulty in school, and come back to education as an adult seeking literacy help.
But how can we know what we’re seeing? When is something a disability that needs specific intervention, and when is it simply a common issue (because learning a language is hard, especially as an adult)?
In this spotlight, we’ll talk about language acquisition, learning disabilities, and how to be more aware of the struggles adult students may have on their learning journey. We’ll also talk about universal design – those classroom activities and learning elements that are beneficial for everyone, but of particular assistance to adult students who may need alternative approaches to learning.
Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:
Audience
Level
Texas AEL PD Category
Assigned by TCALL
Other info:
No other info available at this time.
GUESTS THIS MONTH
Sarah Finley, M.S., LDT, CALT
Director of ALP
Sarah Finley, M.S., LDT, CALT, is a literacy educator and advocate for all learners. With twenty years of experience in Texas public and private schools, Sarah is passionate about supporting teachers and students in developing strong literacy foundations through evidence-based instruction. Sarah is a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist and Certified Academic Language Therapist who has worked with students of all ages.
At Neuhaus Education Center, Sarah serves as an instructor of a young adult class and director of the Margaret H. Ley Adult Literacy Program, which offers free virtual and in-person evening literacy classes for adult learners (16+) with dyslexia and related reading difficulties.
Peggy Semingson, Ph.D.
Interim Director
Peggy Semingson, Ph.D. is Interim Director of the Center for Research on Teaching and Learning Excellence (CRTLE) and Associate Professor at The University of Texas at Arlington. Her work focuses on literacy, multilingual learners, online and blended learning, artificial intelligence in education, digital literacy, and faculty development.
Dr. Semingson has taught and conducted research in literacy, TESOL, educational technology, and teacher education for more than two decades. She has extensive experience supporting educators in the effective use of emerging technologies to enhance teaching and learning while promoting accessibility, inclusion, and learner engagement. Through her leadership at CRTLE at UTA, she develops professional learning opportunities on topics such as AI literacy, online teaching, active learning, assessment, and instructional innovation.
A frequent presenter at regional and national conferences, Dr. Semingson is particularly interested in helping educators navigate the opportunities and challenges of generative AI in ways that strengthen rather than replace human-centered learning. Her work emphasizes practical applications of technology that support reading, writing, communication, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.
At the 2026 DFW Literacy Symposium, Dr. Semingson will share strategies for using AI to support adult literacy instruction, digital literacy, multilingual learners, and workforce readiness while fostering responsible and ethical use of emerging technologies.
BEST OF TEXAS HOST
Founder & Principal
jagEDsolutions
Jacqueline “Jackie” Aguilera has logged 38 years of diverse experience across educational and non-profit sectors. With a focus on adult literacy, she has left an indelible mark on various initiatives and projects in the multi-layered field of adult literacy.
As an experienced adult education innovations designer, she earned a 2021 Ford Foundation Mujeres Legendarias Award for creative ed tech applications in adult education. Her service impact also extends beyond the classroom into the workforce. She empowers both employers and employees through worksite literacy training and independent consulting. She leads a local fellowship of adult education providers called the Houston Area Adult Literacy Collective (the incredible HAALC), serves on many committees, boards, and projects impacting adult learners and families, and most recently served as Project Manager for Houston’s Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy.
In summary, Jacqueline’s multifaceted career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing literacy and education across diverse communities and platforms. Currently on a journey through breast cancer treatment, she is more than ever committed to advancing the lives of all those she serves, making her a messenger of inspiration, innovation, and evolution.
FREE ONLINE REGISTRATION
REMINDER: CHECK YOUR SPAM
Every online registration will generate an automated email response with further information. If you don’t see it arrive, please check your junk mail!
Online registration has now closed – but we have a few spots available for last-minute registrants! Call us on 512-559-1325 to make arrangements.
PD CERTIFICATES
Participants who complete the full session (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM) will receive 1 hour of PD credit.
Literacy Texas defines “complete” as:
- Be present for at least 90% of the session;
- Remain on camera for the entire time you are present.
Certificates of completion will be awarded after the event. Complete the survey after the training is finished to give your details and get your certificate. Surveys will be sent via email after the training, and certificates will be prepared and sent after the survey closes.
Please pay attention to the due dates – after each event is wrapped up, we will not be able to go back and re-issue your PD certificate. If you know you’ll need a certificate at a later date, please take care to request it in a timely manner!
SPECIAL THANKS
Neuhaus Education Center
The Texas Workforce Commission
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Thank you so much for your interest!
This event is now over.
Checked/updated 8/01/2026
